AMBot | 10/02/2024 | Reading Time: 4 Min.
As the authority of the Summerforth Empire wanes, rebellion erupts across its territories. In the province of Missian, the death of Governor Amador Salamakhia sparks a power struggle between his two sons—the elder Couran and his younger brother Vasmarque. Vasmarque seizes the provincial capital of Arcantez and declares himself the rightful heir. Determined to reclaim his birthright and restore stability, Couran mobilizes his forces to challenge his brother's claim.

Ars Louvent sets out to support Couran in the coming civil war. Accompanied by his loyal companions—Mireille, Charlotte, Rietz, and Rosell—they make their way to Semplar, the strategically vital coastal city under Couran's control. Along the journey, they pause by the shore, where Charlotte admires the ocean for the first time.

Upon arriving in Semplar, Ars and his retinue attend a crucial military conference. Despite the skepticism of other nobles toward his presence, Couran warmly welcomes Ars, recognizing his potential and valuing Mireille's expertise. The war council assesses the situation: though Vasmarque commands an army of 110,000 and possesses considerable wealth thanks to Semplar's trade, his troops are outnumbered and led by more experienced commanders. Couran urges his advisors to devise a strategy that could swiftly turn the tide in his favor.

When Lord Chad proposes capturing the eastern city of Bertudo to weaken Vasmarque's position, Mireille criticizes the plan, arguing it would leave Semplar vulnerable to a counterattack. Her blunt assessment unsettles the nobles, but Couran appreciates her candor. Rosell proposes a new strategy: by creating the illusion that the northern province of Paradille might attack Arcantez, they could force Vasmarque onto the defensive. This deception would involve petitioning the Emperor to mediate with Paradille and exploiting corruption within the imperial court to bribe key officials.

Despite initial doubts and the unlikelihood of imperial cooperation, Couran entrusts Ars with executing this bold plan, assigning him full responsibility for its success. Given the delicate nature of negotiations with the imperial court, Ars and his team deliberate over who should undertake the task. They settle on Licia, renowned for her diplomatic finesse.

Ars visits the Pleides estate, where Licia joyfully greets him. They spend much time together, and Licia shows him the garden she cultivated with the flowers he once gifted her—a symbol of their deepening bond. When Ars explains the gravity of the situation and asks for her help in negotiating with the Emperor, Licia readily agrees but sets a personal condition: she asks Ars to marry her after the war. Surprised yet moved by her sincerity, Ars proposes they wed immediately, expressing his desire to have her by his side in these uncertain times.

Licia consents, affirming that she, too, wishes to support and protect him. Together, they inform her father, Hammond, who is initially shocked by the sudden news but ultimately gives his blessing, recognizing his daughter's resolve and their mutual affection. Preparations begin for Licia's journey to the imperial capital, with the goal of securing the Emperor's support and shifting the balance of power in the conflict against Vasmarque.
This article was originally published in German. It was translated with technical support and editorially reviewed before publication.

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