Excerpt from Memoirs of Mqs. Halim Ondore IV, Chapter 16: Biding Time

The Dreadnought Leviathan is sunk. The 8th Fleet of the Archadian Imperial Army, lost.

As Word of the Events in the Jagd sounded throughout the Empire, quit I Bhujerba, citing sudden Malady.

My true Motive: to bring the various counter-Imperial Forces scattered throughout Ivalice together in unified Resistance.

By this Time, Lady Ashe had made her Return to Rabanastre. She had not, however, made known her Presence. Rather, she was content with keeping both her Whereabouts, and those of the Dawn Shard, concealed.

Had she chosen to go before her People, my Error in announcing her Suicide would be known, to the great Detriment of my Efforts to assemble a Resistance.

In such Circumstance as the Lady Ashe then found herself, even were she to proclaim Dalmasca restored, it would serve only to invite the Empire’s Wrath.

Though Archadia had lost her 8th Fleet, she remained, as ever, a Military Power with which to be reckoned.

- Memoirs of Marquis Halim Ondore IV, Chapter 16: Biding Time

Travica Way & Ondore's Estate

Travica Way

Bhujerban Sainikah: His Excellency has given orders that you are to be granted an audience. You are prepared?

>Take me to him.

Then please come this way, bhadra.

>Decline.

Then, please come back when you are prepared.

Ashe: When Vossler learned my father had been killed the night of the treaty-signing, he returned to Rabanastre to aid my escape. There was still time before Vayne’s reach extended too far. We thought that you could protect me.

Ondore: However, when I made the announcement that you had taken your own life… I must have seemed a model citizen of the Empire. The announcement, you see, was Vayne’s suggestion. At the time, I was reluctant, but I could not perceive his reasons. Now it is clear: he meant to drive a wedge between us.

Ashe: Halim, we are past all this. Bhujerba must stand with us. We can stop Vayne.

Ondore: I once knew a girl whose only wish… was to be carried in her uncle’s arms. Your Majesty is a woman grown now.

Ashe: Then Bhujerba will aid me?

Ondore: Suppose for a moment that you were to defeat Vayne… What then? You cannot simply rebuild your kingdom with the only proof of your birthright stolen. The Gran-Kiltias on Bur-Omisace cannot recognize you as the rightful heir without it. You may yet be a princess, but without proof of your identity, you are powerless. You will remain with me. We will do nothing till the time is right.

Ashe: I cannot just wait!

Ondore: Then what does Your Majesty propose we do?

Ashe: Uncle Halim –

Balthier: Incidentally, what is the going rate for rescuing princesses these days? Food would be a good start – the good stuff, mind you.

Ondore: This can be arranged, though it will take some time.

Balthier: Time enough for a bath, I hope. Dirty business, you know. Ah, best bring a change of clothes too.

[As Balthier lists his demands, Ashe walks away as if in a daze, disappointed. The scene fades to black. Fade in again on the Strahl docked in the Marquis’s private hangar. The camera switches; we are looking from the point of view of someone seemingly sneak up on someone else who is sitting at the controls, messing with the buttons.]

Vaan: What are you doing? This is Balthier’s ship.

[Ashe, in the pilot’s seat, turns her head in his direction.]

Ashe: I’m going to retrieve the Dawn Shard. It’s the proof that I need. I know where it’s hidden. I’ll return his airship later.

Vaan: Are you crazy?

Ashe: This is something that I have to do! For myself and all those who have fallen. I will not be made to hide! I’ll fight alone, if I must.

Vaan: You still have Basch, right? Besides, you can’t just go around stealing people’s ships. What are you trying to do?

Ashe: I’m trying to concentrate!

Ondore(?): That’s quite enough, Your Majesty.

[Ashe and Vaan turn. Balthier stands in the doorway with a device, like a microphone of some sort, held up to his mouth.]

Balthier: What do you think? A bit over the top? In my line of work, you never know when something like this might come in handy. [in Ashe’s voice, over the device] I’m trying to concentrate!

[Pause, as Balthier approaches the two.]

Balthier: I’m leaving you with the Marquis.

Ashe: You can’t.

Balthier: Trust me, you’re better off staying here.

[Balthier turns to leave, but Ashe’s next words stop him in his tracks.]

Ashe: Suppose you kidnapped me instead? You’re a sky pirate, aren’t you? Then steal me. Is that so much to ask?

Balthier: What do you have that I would want?

Ashe: The Dynast-King’s treasure. The Dawn Shard is but one of the riches that lie waiting in King Raithwall’s tomb.

Balthier: [whistles and turns to face Ashe again] King Raithwall, you say?

[Suddenly Basch enters the bridge.]

Basch: Kidnapping royalty is a serious offense. It won’t do much to lower the bounty on your head.

Balthier: How much is the price on your head these days, I wonder?

Basch: [to Ashe] Allow me to escort you in Vossler’s place.

[Fran and Penelo also appear in the doorway.]

Fran: [to Vaan] Will you be joining us?

Vaan: What, are you kidding? I don’t wanna stick around this place.

[Penelo runs to take a seat immediately behind Vaan.]

Penelo: Then I’m coming too.

Vaan: Penelo?

Penelo: Don’t leave me here!

Vaan: [sighing] Of course not.

Fran: [to all] Then it’s settled. We should leave before the Marquis realizes she’s missing. Like proper kidnappers.

[The scene fades to black, then fades in again on a grand city.]

[Archadian Empire – The Imperial City of Archades]

[The view switches to a grand drawing room draped in the colors and insignia of the Empire. Emperor Gramis is having an audience with the same Judge in the horned helm who interrogated Basch and spoke to Vayne earlier.]

Gramis: Doctor Cid does this at Draklor?

Judge: I have confirmed he receives funds from Lord Vayne. His agency in the fall of Nabudis is also certain… yet, with Judge Zecht, who led the assault, missing… the truth remains difficult to ascertain.

Gramis: The long, cold years have clouded my eyes. I cannot see my own son’s heart.

[Suddenly, Gramis is taken by a coughing fit. The Judge appears concerned.]

Judge: My Lord.

Gramis: [recovering] This illness will claim me. So then, who is to be my successor? The Senate fears the capable peregrine Vayne. They prefer a young, fledgling emperor. [Pause] Gabranth. Once in the past, I laid siege to your homeland.

Judge Gabranth: The Republic of Landis is long since gone. My allegiance lies wholly with the Empire.

Gramis: Perhaps, but what of your brother? He did not accept us as you did. He fled to Dalmasca. Did you never think to follow him?

Gabranth: I follow his every move. He is an enemy of the Empire. He will be cut down.

Gramis: So you would kill even your own brother for the Empire. Be that as it may, Gabranth. Your ruthlessness is not without merit. But it must not become this way with Larsa. You must ensure that it does not.

Gabranth: So then, you ask me to be his sword, to strike where he might not?

Gramis: Rather be his shield. Gabranth, keep your close watch on Vayne. His is the keenest blade of all.

Gabranth: My Lord.

Gramis: Do this for me, Gabranth. I could not – I could not bear… to see my sons war with each other again.

[Scene fades to black.]

Travica Way & Ondore's Estate

Travica Way

Bhujerban Sainikah (on guard at Marquis’s estate): Haa, we’ve been expecting you. His Excellency the Marquis awaits.

>Take me to him.

You are ready for your audience, bhadra?

>I’m ready.

His Excellency the Marquis is otherwise occupied until sunset. Please, I will show you to a place where you may wait in comfort.

>I’m not ready.

>Decline.

Ondore: Sir Basch fon Ronsenburg. It was not so very long ago that I announced you had been executed.

Basch: And that is the only reason I draw breath.

Ondore: So you are the sword he’s strung above my head. Vayne has left not a thing to chance. And?

Basch: A leader of the Resistance has fallen into Imperial hands. A woman by the name of Amalia. I would rescue her, but I need your help.

Ondore: This resistance leader – this Amalia. She must be very important.

[Basch bows slightly in response.]

Ondore: You understand I’ve my position to consider.

Vaan: Would you let us see Larsa? He’s got my friend with him.

Ondore: I’m afraid you’re too late. Lord Larsa’s cortege has already rejoined the Imperial detachment. I am told they will depart for Rabanastre upon the arrival of the fleet this eventide.

[A very brief cinematic shows the fleet silently hanging over Ondore’s estate in the night sky, and a detachment of smaller craft flying out from the flagship toward the estate.]

[Fade back in on Ondore’s office, where Vaan is now being restrained by Balthier and Fran.]

Vaan: What are we waiting for?

Balthier: For you to calm down.

Ondore: Captain Ronsenburg. Surely the exigencies of position are not lost on you. Why, indeed, you should find the enemy’s chains… an easy burden to bear.

[A look of shocked comprehension crosses Basch’s face. Balthier catches on as well.]

Balthier: Wait!

Basch: Sorry. Can’t be helped.

[Basch draws his sword.]

Ondore: Summon the guard!

[His attendant opens the door to let in a string of sainikah, who proceed to restrain Vaan & co.]

Ondore: They’re to be taken to Judge Ghis.

[The scene fades to black once more, and fades into a different setting.]

[The Royal Palace of Rabanastre – Consul’s Chambers]

Vayne: Those decrepit, basking fools in Archades tie my hands, and look what happens! I tell you, this country’s obstinacy knows no bounds.

Judge: The insurgents in Rabanastre operate alone at present. However, should they garner external support, the situation could worsen. We have found the counter-Imperial elements in Bhujerba to be conspicuously well-funded. No doubt Marquis Ondore is behind this. Ondore must be reined in.

Vayne: By that way, the Marquis has written us a letter. He claims that he’s recaptured our runaway. He’s given him to Ghis.

Judge: He will die by my hand.

Vayne: Your fraternity is moving. Ah, Ghis returns with Larsa. Tomorrow morning they will leave Bhujerba. See him home safely, Gabranth. Now, I’m expecting Doctor Cid. You may leave.

[Gabranth bows, turns his back, and exits the room. As he leaves, he passes by Vayne’s next visitor, Doctor Cid, who appears to be enthusiastically talking to himself.]

Cid: We must see the real thing to be sure. Nabudis has taught us much! Yes, it’s well hidden. They’ll be off chasing after shadows, the fools. Ah, yes. The reins of History, back in the hands of Man. [turning to Vayne] Hah, Vayne! You seem to be enjoying your job as consul.

Vayne: I was kept waiting fully 2 years. What news of Archades? Our honored members of the Senate?

Cid: Hard at work as always, trying to find a dagger for your back.

Vayne: They are welcome to try.

Bhujerba - Lhusu Square

[As the party emerges from the mines, they see Lamont approach the the Archadian inspection party that is lingering outside. They hid behind the columns to watch.

Judge: I see you’ve been out walking without the company of your carriage… Lord Larsa.

[An Imperial steps aside to reveal Penelo is with the Imperial party.]

Judge: We caught her wandering out of the mines. You must take care with such undesirables about.

Penelo: I was kidnapped –

Judge: Silence!

Larsa: If it is a crime to wander on one’s own… then I, too, am guilty. Marquis. I trust that your estate can accommodate another guest?

Ondore: Why not?

Larsa: Judge Ghis, I shall heed your counsel. I will not travel unaccompanied any longer.

[Larsa takes a stunned Penelo's hand and walks away.]

Judge: That was unexpected.

Larsa: Thank you, Penelo.

Penelo: O-Of course.

[As the Imperial party leaves, Vaan & co. feel safe to come out.]

Vaan: What’s Penelo doing? And what’s the deal with that Lamont?

Balthier: That’s no “Lamont.” Larsa Ferrinas Solidor. Fourth son to Emperor Gramis… and brother to Vayne.

Vaan: What? That kid!?

Fran: Do not worry. I believe he will treat her well.

Balthier: Nobody knows men like Fran does.

Basch: Our purposes lead the same way: to Ondore. We must find means to approach him.

Balthier: The Marquis is channeling money to organizations opposing the Empire. We’ll start there.

Aekom: The one with the shiny armor, he was a Judge of Archadia, yes? Haa… More impressive than ever I imagined, he was! The Marquis must do as they say.

[Upon approaching the area at the top of the stairs…]

Basch: Marquis Ondore announced my execution 2 years ago. If news of my survival were to spread, the Marquis may find his position compromised.

Balthier: The men he’s been funding bear little love for the Empire. They won’t be thrilled to discover that rumors of your death were, in fact, greatly exaggerated. If we were to raise a clamor to that effect, we might just get their attention.

Vaan: Nothin’ to it! I’ll just go around town spreading the word. How ‘bout this?

[You are prompted to press the square button…]

Vaan: [yelling] I’m Captain Basch fon Ronsenburg of Dalmasca!

[The denizens of Lhusu Square turn heads at Vaan.]

Vaan: Well? What do you think?

Balthier: That certainly qualifies as a clamor. All right, Vaan, get to it. For the girl’s sake, eh? Oh, and the more people around to witness your little performance, the better. If we’re going to reach the Marquis, it’s up to you. We’ll be waiting here, if you need us.

Lhusu Mines - Shaft Entry

[Another party is heading in from the entrance. Vaan, Basch, Balthier, Fran, and Lamont all retreat into the shadows. One is identified as an Imperial Judge by his extravagant armor. The other you recognize once you hear the voice.]

Judge: You will forgive me for asking, but you are diverting the purest of the magicite –

Ondore: I can assure you it reaches Lord Vayne most discreetly.

Judge: You wear your saddle well.

Ondore: Be that as it may, I have no intention of being bridled, Your Honor.

Judge: Then you prefer the whip? Stubbornness will see not only you broken, Excellency, but Bhujerba as well.

Lamont: Halim Ondore IV, the Marquis of Bhujerba. The Marquis served as the mediator at the negotiations of Dalmasca’s surrender. It would appear that he is somewhat less neutral now.

Balthier: They say he’s been helping the Resistance.

Lamont: They say many things.

Balthier: You’re certainly well informed. Who did you say you were again?

Vaan: What difference does it make? We have to find Penelo.

Lamont: And Penelo is your –

Vaan: She’s a friend. She was kidnapped and taken here.

Excerpt from Memoirs of Mqs. Halim Ondore IV, Chapter 13: The Province of Allies

Pretenses of Peace left by the Wayside, the Archadian Forces resumed their Advance toward Rabanastre. Dalmasca’s Doom had been decided.

To make Resistance would serve no end. With this foremost in my Thoughts, I, to the People of Dalmasca:

“Sons and Daughters of Dalmasca, I bid you lay down your Arms. Raise Songs of Prayer in their Stead. Prayer for His Majesty King Raminas, ever merciful. A Man devoted wholly to Peace.

“Prayer, too, for the noble Princess Ashe, who, wrought with Grief at her Kingdom’s defeat, has taken her own Life.

“Know also that Capt. Basch fon Ronsenburg, for Incitement of Sedition and the Assassination of H.R.M. King Raminas, has been found Guilty of High Treason and put to his Death.

“They who at this late Hour choose still the Sword are cut of the same Cloth as the Capt.: Traitors who would lead Dalmasca to her Ruin.”

Dalmasca’s Surrender without Terms was soon to follow.

~Memoirs of Mqs. Halim Ondore IV, Chapter 13: The Province of Allies

Previous: Nalbina Fortress

Next: Finishing Up

Excerpt from Memoirs of Mqs. Halim Ondore IV, Chapter 12: Of the Fall of Kingdoms

The Death of Ld. Rasler Heios Nabradia was but one of many Tragedies to befall the Kingdom of Dalmasca.

The Air of Hope that had surrounded H.R.H. Princess Ashe’s Wedding was now quite lost; Dalmasca had been set adrift, at the Mercy of History’s restless Tides.

At this Time, two Great Empires struggled for Dominion over Ivalice; Archadia in the East, Rozzaria, the west.

The Invasion of the Kingdom of Nabradia was Archadia’s first Step in its westward March.

With Lord Rasler’s beloved Homeland consumed by the Hell-Fires of War, it seemed clear that Archadia would soon mete out a like Fate to Dalmasca.

The Fall of the Fortress at Nalbina tolled the Destructed of the greater part of Dalmasca’s Forces.

A Counter-Attack was mounted by the Order of the Knights of Dalmasca, ever Brave and Faithful, but against the martial Might of the Archadian Armies, they stood little Chance of Victory.

Indeed, their Defeat was to be absolute.

Soon thereafter, Archadia came forward offering Terms of Peace. Or, as one might rather put it, Terms of Dalmasca’s Surrender.

Lord Raminas, King of Dalmasca – and my Dear Friend – had no Choice but to accept these Terms. It was, thus, only with Reluctance that He set out for Nalbina Fortress – now under Archadian Occupation – to affix His Seal to the Emperor’s Treaty of Peace.

The King had scarce departed His Royal City of Rabanastre when the Remnants of the Order made their Return. And not a Moment too soon, for a terrible Revelation awaited them.

The Treaty would be signed with Steel and Writ in royal Blood.

~Memoirs of Mqs. Halim Ondore IV, Chapter 12: Of the Fall of Kingdoms

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