FE world idea

[blah the Prussian]

So I've been kicking around this idea for a world and story for a while now, and I think I have it where I want it. As always, feel free to tear it apart.

Long ago, the Continent of Sassania was ruled by demons who heartlessly oppressed humans. And yet, a savior was soon to come. The hero mage Gallic mastered the power of Light Magic, banishing the demons and freeing mankind. Gallic would become Saint Gallic of the Gallican Church, which for millennia ruled over almost all nations of Andromeda. And yet, the church grew corrupt. Bishops abused power; kings increasingly became puppets; humans became victims of themselves. Thus came the Reformation, and the 40 years War. That will be discussed later. First, the nations:

Kingdom of Lotharingia: The main "victim" Kingdom. Based on a mix between Germany and the Dutch. They're a feudal society with a weak army, and their agriculture was devastated by the 40 Years War (more on that later). One of the two lords comes from here. In the 40 Year's War, its monarchy took the side of the reformers, seeking to strengthen its own position. At the beginning of the game, it falls to the armies of Aramea. Its King is killed, and his younger brother, Prince Genseric, flees to Allania.

The army of Lotharingia is based around cavalry; Cavaliers and Paladins are the norm, with foot soldiers mostly being soldiers and the occasional Knight. They also have an archer corps. The army is also very decentralized, available via feudal levy. The Cavaliers are generally nobles, and the foot soldiers and archers are generally peasants.

Empire of Allania: The Empire of Allania is largely based on the Roman Empire, specifically the Dominate and Byzantium. It is ruled by Emperor Constantius III; his daughter Crown Princess Honoria is the other main lord. The Empire was the center of the 40 Years War 15 years ago; it initially pitted the Monarchy and the powerful Gallican Church against reformers in the army and peasantry. However, Constantius II, father of the current Emperor, sympathized with the reformers, so the Church had him and his wife murdered. Constantius III did not forget this, and fled to join the reformers. Eventually, the rebellion won, and the Gallican Church was purged from the Empire; regrettably, many innocents were killed. The Empire today is the chief anti-Gallican power on the Continent.

The Imperial Allanian Army is famed for its quality. The Allanian legions focus on formations of infantry, the Legionaries, fighting together. Generally speaking, the Allanian army structure features skirmishers as archers, as well as Anima mages. These weaken the enemy army, after which the Myrmidon mercenaries (light infantry) skirmish with the enemy. This gives the main army time to set up their flanking maneuvers, with heavy infantry (Knights) in the center, and medium infantry, the legionaries, on the flanks. This tactic has won Allania an Empire. However, a clever General may be able to exploit it...

Kingdom of Aramea: Aramea is largely based on a mixture of Golden Age Spain and Napoleonic France. It is extremely, militantly religious, ruled by a popular King who gets his power from the military. The Forty Year's War in Aramea saw the entire Royal Family executed by Reformers, leading to a popular peasant general, Teodor Vexin, crushing the Reformers and being crowned King. King Teodor was quick to open up his borders to Gallican refugees, who streamed into the Kingdom. The seat of the Gallican Church also relocated to Aramea. Fifteen years after the end of the war, Teodor, a middle aged man now, declares war on the rest of the continent to restore Gallicanism to its rightful place, setting the events of the game in motion.

The Aramean Army is built around hitting hard and fast; their army is centered around traditional Aramean Dragon Knights and, recently, the Gallican Light mages. Light magic has been the sole property of the Gallican Church for centuries, and it is still used to great effect. The Wyvern riders are some of the most dangerous soldiers on the continent, only weak to arrows. To counter this, Aramea has its light cavalry, which circles behind the enemy and disables their archers. The Dragon Knights then fall upon them and crush them. It is with these tactics that Aramea goes to war.

Republic of Venoisia: Venoisia is based on Italy, specifically on the merchant Republics. It generally has been an ally of Lotharingia, but, following that nation's fall, the Doge has thrown his lot in with Aramea. Some say he is a traitor, some say he is defending his country.

The Venoisian army is mostly run by mercenaries. It is, however, still a rather potent force, and it will pose a threat to Allanian possessions to its south.

Kingdom of Sithod: Sithod lies to the far north, ruled by a warrior King, Ulfric the Strong. It is a harsh land, dominated by the Sithod Berserkers, the infamous warrior caste that raided the lands to the south for centuries. Although it has embraced isolationism now, if Aramea were to attack, it would find the Berserkers, as well as the Pegasus Knights, to be feared for a reason.

Tribes of Osvisia: Inhabiting the northern and Eastern Steppes, the Ovisians are a disunited set of tribes sharing a common culture. They mostly content themselves with raiding west for loot and slaves; while the civilized nations have invaded in retaliation, they have long since realized that trying to hold such a vast amount of territory is pointless. The Ovisians also provide mercenaries for much of the continent. They focus on horse archers and myrmidons. In addition to this, acolytes of the old Oagan religions, practiced before the rise of Gallicanism, fled to the Steppes to escape persecution. Their Dark Mages rule over the city of Tvogrod as a theocracy, and they pay tribute to the nomads in exchange for defense. The Gallicans have long tried to take Tvogrod, but the arrows of the Osvisians have stopped them every time.

So that's the setting; I'll post stuff about the story later. Again, feel free to rip it to shreds.

Edited October 7, 2016 by blah the Prussian

[Ken Masters]

Seems cool. Just change the Continent name, Andromeda is cliche af

[Moblin Major General]

You really should include a place for Dark Mages and Dragons/Beasts. This area can be based off of the Ottoman Empire, really tolerant and progressive for the area, but universally hated because of it's "Demon Worship", which is just observance of Pre-Gallican religion, which may or may not be connected to some of the wiser, less-destructive demons. It shelters races that aren't human because the Gallicans started referring to them as "Demons" as soon as they became entrenched, which is to say the corruption really took root. The Gallican church contemplated a crusade into this country on the eve of the Reformation, but several of the deacons warned that if they did, it would cause a centuries-long war that might cause the dark mages to turn to the very demons Gallic himself turned back to the dead (effectively, they would create their own worst enemy.) Other than that, change the continent name.

[blah the Prussian]

You really should include a place for Dark Mages and Dragons/Beasts. This area can be based off of the Ottoman Empire, really tolerant and progressive for the area, but universally hated because of it's "Demon Worship", which is just observance of Pre-Gallican religion, which may or may not be connected to some of the wiser, less-destructive demons. It shelters races that aren't human because the Gallicans started referring to them as "Demons" as soon as they became entrenched, which is to say the corruption really took root. The Gallican church contemplated a crusade into this country on the eve of the Reformation, but several of the deacons warned that if they did, it would cause a centuries-long war that might cause the dark mages to turn to the very demons Gallic himself turned back to the dead (effectively, they would create their own worst enemy.) Other than that, change the continent name.

Right, changed the continent name. Unfortunately the story I have in mind doesn't really have room for another nation; if it was there it would be painfully underdeveloped or lengthen the story to an unworkable degree. I was, however, planning to put the Dark Mages in the Steppes, I just forgot.

In any case, important characters:

Genseric III: One of two main lords. King of Lotharingia following the death of his elder brother Aldwin in battle against Aramea. He never was supposed to be King, and as such never learned what he needed to know. Due to neglect by his parents, he became an infamous playboy, causing scandal across the Kingdom. He isn't your average spoiled brat, though; he really does want to do what's best for his people. The problem is that he might not be able to. Was originally to be publically burned at the stake by the occupiers, but manages to escape to Alannia with the help of a Sage named Eborin. Age 20.

Eborin: Very powerful Sage that rescues Genseric from his execution. He claims to be an Alannian noble investigating plans by the Pagans to revive their Dark Gods across the continent. His research has led him to believe that Genseric is the chosen one, the reincarnation of Gallic, who will save the faithful from the demons once again. Age 29.

Clothilde: Sister of Genseric; was to be executed alongside him. She is a cleric in the Reformed Church. Deeply religious, and also somewhat bigoted towards Osvisians due to being kidnapped by one of their tribes and held for ransom at age 8. Generally speaking, however, she is kind, if a bit patronizing towards the lower classes. Age 17.

Crown Princess Honoria: The other main lord. Heir to the throne of Alannia. A tomboy, but that doesn't mean she's bad at literally everything other than what tomboys like; she might not be good at courtly etiquette, but she is good at diplomacy, math, history. This is because her father wanted her to succeed her and trained her from birth to do so, in stark contrast to Genseric. She shares her father's belief that a ruler should live for her people, but is a bit naive. She's also the commander of Fort Antoninus at the border, which is how she and Genseric meet. Age 19.

Emperor Constantius III: Victor of the War, hammer of the Gallicans, and generally speaking a ruthless yet fair leader. Basically, picture Garon pre Gooron (Serenes's law!) and you'll get him. He is past his prime, however, and at this point physically weak. Also guardian of the Fire Emblem, which is used to channel spirits ala Ace Attorney, although you don't need to be trained to do so. Age 55.

Empress consort Katharina: Former Princess of Sithod, and former ace flier in the Royal Pegasus corps. Although her marriage to Constantius was a political one, they legitimately love each other, Age 49.

Marshal Eleftherios Laskaris, Duke of Pelopenos: Prefect of the Praetorian guards and longtime comrade in arms with Constantius. His family is also the second most powerful in the Empire. One of the three Marshals of the Imperial Army. Age 40.

Marshal Aelia Prisca, Countess of Tarenta: Commander of the Mage Corps of the Empire. A seasoned Anima Mage, another comrade of Constantius. Overall, a competant general.

Main villains:

King Teodor I: The "Peasent King" of Aramea, Teodor, in the eyes of his people, saved him from the Heretic reformers who butchered the entire royal family. He is hugely popular with the army and common people, and is a warrior through and through. He is a firm believer in meritocracy. Although not particularly religious, Teodor sees the Gallicans as an excuse to go to war to conquer the continent. Privately, however, he is suspicious of them, knowing that their loyalty is to Saint Gallic first, and the Monarchy second. Abused by both his father and teacher, as well as his lord, as a child, Teodor has a psychological need for power, being addicted to its feeling. Age 42.

Archbishop of Gallicanism: The mysterious religious head of Gallicanism. Mixes zealotr with hatred of Reformers. Never shows his face to anyone to protect himself from assassination. Longs to bring Saint Gallic back to the world using some person as a vessel. Age unknown.

General Matilda Euxpray: A Light Mage who left Gallicanism due to disapproving of its more vengeful stances. A military genius, and absolutely loyal to Teodor, believing that Teodor is the best person to rule the world, and that everyone should submit themselves to him for their own good. Age 35.

General Velasque Chambourd: An old soldier of the General who served the old Royal Family. Extremely devoted to them. Serves Teodor to get revenge against the Reformists, who he blames for their deaths. Age 60.

General August Rourgeille: Wyvern General of Aramea, and the most feared soldier in the army. A blood knight, he serves Teodor because he likes the idea of challenging himself by fighting the entire world. Also the second most powerful man in Aramea, ahead of even the Archbishop. Age 39.

Doge Enrico di Machiani: Doge of Venoisia, Enrico was initially allied with Lotharingia, but regretfully switched sides to protect his country after Lotharingia fell. Some call him a traitor, others a realist doing what it takes to survive, but regardless, he is the only ally of Aramea. Also, the Camus.

[KMT4ever]

This looks really interesting. I think a map would greatly improve story-telling if you can create something decent.

[Moblin Major General]

I actually wish that the dark mages in an FE story were objectively allied with the hero, especially if it's supposed to be gray vs. grey like it probably is here. The Reformation has a lot of shade from their actual beginnings, but were it not for the fact the corrupt theocracy is backing the antagonists, the antagonists could easily be considered good.

Also, I have an idea from before Fates was announced, and it even has a map.

[spoiler=Map of Malastia]

The Northwestern Country is the Hegemony of Canfalia. It's leadership consists of the 5 highest ranking military officials, though in practice, it's a representative democracy that has no defined leader. If need be, the 5 generals will issue a veto if they unanimously are against a law passed by the Senate. This is rare, as it effectively ends the careers of the Generals involved, allowing their replacements to rise. Canfalia is famed for having the best armored units on the entire continent. Of the Fire Emblem Shards, it holds the Fire Emblem Shard of Fire, which symbolizes their defiance to the cold and unforgiving tundra across it.

Directly South is the Theocracy of Azodon. Home to deserts and mountains, any combat is limited to magic based abilities, and as such, most magical pursuits are done in Azodon. The surrounding countries refer to the ruler of Azodon as King, even though the Monarchy of Azodon isn't proper in the slightest. Many kings of Azodon are celibate, and those that weren't were still chaste, because having children would encourage building a dynasty that would weaken. Instead, kings adopt a single infant male to succeed them upon learning of their death, usually 18 years to the day prior to their death. This child bears the knowledge of all of the kings of Azodon, even spells that many consider to be forbidden or impossible to do. Azodon bears the Fire Emblem Shard of Stone, as an homage to the very substance it holds.

East of Azodon is the Irilethia Imperium. The main ruling body is the Archon, an elected autocrat nominated by the Thanedom, a group of 18 lords called Thanes. The Archon rules with absolute power for a period of 20 years, but the Thanes will need to be unanimous in their choosing of him, and the Thanes will be careful not to choose someone with ambition or who lacks the finesse of politics. Most of the time, it is a young man from the ranks of the common, but they have been known to choose one of their own if the situation calls for it or the determination is made that they cannot come to a unanimous decision regarding potential candidates, both of which are equally rare. The foothills of the Imperium mean that armies stick mainly to roads, meaning basic foot soldiers are common. Holds the Fire Emblem Shard of Light, because the sun is most easily seen over Irilethia.

South of Irilethia is the Kingdom of Lytheria. The traditional nature of Lytheria leaves it victim to the pitfalls of tradition, including the infamous tactic known as Game of Thrones, where territories rise and fall in accordance to the balance of power, either in battle, or because of assassinations. This doesn't help the fact that Lytheria holds the deadly combination of archers trained from birth and liberal(the only thing of the sort in Lytheria) use of Wyverns. Worse still, Lytheria has the oldest monarchy on the continent, with several periods of weakness and incompetence from the throne in regards to the infighting amongst the lords. The verdant plains leave Lytheria vulnerable to both cyclones from the coast and whirlwinds closer to the border of the Imperium, and as such, has the Fire Emblem Shard of Wind.

Northeast of Lytheria is Caledria. Caledria is a large collection of over 20 city-states, free cities, territories, and small kingdoms. The variable terrain and culture of nobility and chivalry reflect their chosen style of combat:Horses. Any infantry they do have are fast, lightly armored swordsman, almost exclusively volunteers. Once a year, every vizier, lord, king, and burger meister convene in the Caledrian League, where they attempt to mediate disputes between states, set a flat tax throughout the country, and even address potential invasions, regardless of the actual threat posed by either Lytheria, Irilethia, or Lythanum to the North. Holds the Fire Emblem Shard of Earth, owing to the idea of the variable terrain.

North of Caledria lies Lythanum, a lawless, frozen taiga with mountains higher than the pegasi that live there fly. The coasts reek of fish and grog, as many fishermen are former pirates from either other countries or from faraway lands. The most fearsome of these is Dagger, a Berserker that is said to be able to run across oceans. He is the closest thing Lythanum has to a leader, and upon his death, many believe the snow will run red as other cutthroats will attempt to fill the power vacuum. The only ones who can leave without taking their chances with wolves, bears, or the cold are the dreaded pirates from the coast or the pegasus knight mercenaries often hired onto armies that have no aerial troops, though their ability to last against the likes of Lytheria are usually slim. They have the Fire Emblem Shard of Ice, because they embrace the grim prospects of their straits, unlike Canfalia.

The absolute North of Malastia bears the Alsverge Archipelago. Those who travel there only seek solitude. Rumors abound that this forsaken area of the continent are where the remains of the ancient Leviathan lie, waiting for someone to awaken it. Those that are known to remain on this island are beasts of immeasurable power, hiding from the societies that shunned them, many, many millennia ago. Also making their home on the remote chain of islands are dark mages, those scholars who were forced to perform their dangerous and clandestine incantations away from the cautious, prying eyes of Azodon, both for the safety of the people of Azodon and the safety of the caster. Somewhere in the unforgiving wasteland lies the Fire Emblem Shard of Sea, as it is an island all by itself.

The plot is as follows: Before humans found the Continent of Malastia, chaos reigned as a war between dragons ravaged a continent. The most fearsome of these was the Leviathan, who bore such a frightening name that no dragon alive today dare speaks it. The Leviathan nearly ravaged the entire continent, until 7 other dragons put their power together into an artifact called the Fire Emblem and combined it to form Ziz, a dragon more powerful than any seen prior or since. Ziz used his power to slay the Leviathan, but he returned himself to the form of the seven dragons. Each dragon pulled apart their piece of the Fire Emblem that joined them together as one. Fearing their power, but knowing that Ziz could very well be needed again, they sealed themselves within each shard of the Fire Emblem. As man travelled across oceans and skies alike to find Malastia, the dragons decided to retreat north to avoid the strange invaders. This would pay off for both species in the end, as the dragons would observe the depravity of mankind, and man would not have to hate or fear something it doesn't know exists.

10,000 years after that massive conflict, the usual fare of banditry, intrigue, and near constant war fuels the continent of Malastia. Canfalia, in the Northwest of the continent, prepares for war against Azodon. Azodon knows neither country will lose much or will have much to lose in the war, but the Archon of Irilethia is concerned that something may actually destroy the 10,000 years of history on the continent. As Canfalia besieges the capital of Azodon, Akkar, son of King Malkas of Azodon, finds his way to Arinoth, where he finds Lord Rex, Thane of Arinoth and a potential candidate for Archon. The regnant Archon entreats the two to an impossible task: reunite the Fire Emblem, even though almost none of the pieces have a known location, and that even entering some places on the continent would lead to war.

Names to know:

Akkar: Prince of Azodon and one of the lords of this tale. Adept at all 3 forms of Anima Magic. Is knowledgeable in many things, but is emotionally detached, even from his own father.

Malkas: King of Azodon. Like Akkar, he is well known for his intellect. However, he bears the wisdom of his ancestors as well, and although Akkar certainly doesn't lack for common sense, his father is able to make an effective diplomatic case even from an impossible position.

Rex: Thane of the Irilethian province of Arinoth. An effective Fencer and Jockey, he holds the favor of both the other thanes and the Archon himself. The other lord.

Mondath: Archon of Irilethia. Commisions the quest to reunite the Fire Emblem, even with his limited understanding of what it does.

I have more characters to add, but the plot is still there.

[blah the Prussian]

Well, here dark is not evil. The dark mages are essentially just another religion, albeit one essentially existing at the pleasure of the Visothian Khans. As for Teodor, I'm basing him off of Alan Bullock's interpretation of Joseph Stalin: that Stalin pursued power for its own sake because his abusive childhood gave him an inferiority complex. Growing up powerless basically gave him a craving for power. Although, Teador is significantly less paranoid and incompetant than AStalin, so it's mostly derived from motivation.

[Moblin Major General]

Thoughts on my idea?

[blah the Prussian]

Thoughts on my idea?

It's certainly an interesting world; I like the different forms of government and cultures, especially what seems to be a Scotland/HRE fusion. Fighting a Leviathan as the Medeus archetype sounds quite interesting. One question: if Azodon's Kings adopt their heirs Principate style, is Akkar the biological or adopted son of the King?

[Moblin Major General]

It's certainly an interesting world; I like the different forms of government and cultures, especially what seems to be a Scotland/HRE fusion. Fighting a Leviathan as the Medeus archetype sounds quite interesting. One question: if Azodon's Kings adopt their heirs Principate style, is Akkar the biological or adopted son of the King?

Adopted, natch. Also, I really like that you dig Irilethia.

[blah the Prussian]

Okay, so I think now is a good time to start outlining the general plot line, chapter by chapter.

The opening narration basically sums up what I already said.

Prologue: The fall of Lotharingia

Prince Genseric, heir to the throne of Lotharingia, is with his brother, King Aldwin. Aldwin describes how Aramea is invading to force Gallicanism back on the people, and derisively talks to Genseric about how he's unfit to lead. He then suggests that Genseric take some of his men (Andreas, a Cavalier, and Owen, an archer) and attack an Aramean scouting party. What follows is a tutorial mission. When Genseric gets back, however, he finds that King Teodor has arrived with his army. Teodor's superior strategy easily destroys Aldwin's forces, and Genseric is taken prisoner.

Chapter 1: Mysterious rescuer

Genseric and his sister, Clothilde, are about to be publicly burnt at the stake by the leader of the Lotharingian occupation, Carolus. However, Eborin, a mysterious Sage (and Jeigan) rescues them with the help of Andreas and Owen, as well as Marie, a Knight, and Rowan, a Mercenary. Eborin helps them escape, and they resolve to head for Aramea.

Chapter 2: Pursuit

General August Rourgeille, second in command to King Teodor, warns Carolus that he had better catch Genseric or else. When Carolus leaves, Rourgeille privately expresses his disgust with fanatics, wishing that they weren't needed to win the war. Meanwhile, Eborin tells Genseric that he was rescued because it is his destiny to save the world from darkness, and that the dark mages are trying to come back. They defeat the pursuers and forge ahead.

Chapter 3: Allania

The group reaches Allania, where Captain Honoria, commander of Fort Antoninus, greets them. She is joined by Marcus, a legionary with red armor, and Antony, a legionary with green armor. Carolus, however, attacks the fort to capture his quarry, and an easy defense mission ensues. After 7 turns, the Northern Legions under Marshal Aelia Prisca comes to relieve them. Prisca tells Honoria to escort Genseric to the capitol, at which point it is revealed that Honoria is actually Crown Princess Honoria. Honoria is not happy with this assignment, but accepts.

Chapter 4: I don't know

Filler bandit chapter. Honoria lectures Genseric about the duties of a ruler. Genseric realizes he needs to earn her respect.

Chapter 5: Something to do with darkness

Genseric and Honoria fight a group of rogue dark mages. Genseric asks Eborin who he is, and Eborin responds that he comes from a dystopian future where the dark mages brought about the return of the demons. He tells Genseric it is his duty to save the world. Genseric is accepting, but Honoria seems skeptical. Meanwhile, in the capitol of Aramea, King Teodor orders General Matilda Euxpray to attack Allania, General Velasque Chambourd to attack Sithod, and General August Rourgeille to oversee the occupation of Lotharingia. He then talks to the archbishop of Gallicanism, whose face is veiled, where the Archbishop demands that the revival of Saint Gallic go ahead, and Teodor responds that this will only happen in return for Gallican loyalty.

So that's the beginning of the story. I'll also try to get a map up later. So far, what do you think?

[KMT4ever]

Okay, so I think now is a good time to start outlining the general plot line, chapter by chapter.

The opening narration basically sums up what I already said.

Prologue: The fall of Lotharingia

Prince Genseric, heir to the throne of Lotharingia, is with his brother, King Aldwin. Aldwin describes how Aramea is invading to force Gallicanism back on the people, and derisively talks to Genseric about how he's unfit to lead. He then suggests that Genseric take some of his men (Andreas, a Cavalier, and Owen, an archer) and attack an Aramean scouting party. What follows is a tutorial mission. When Genseric gets back, however, he finds that King Teodor has arrived with his army. Teodor's superior strategy easily destroys Aldwin's forces, and Genseric is taken prisoner.

How does Aldwin react to being defeated? Is he pessimistic about Genseric's chances, or does he express hope? How does Genseric react to his kingdom and brother falling? Also, what sort of class is he? I don't think you've mentioned that.

Chapter 1: Mysterious rescuer

Genseric and his sister, Clothilde, are about to be publicly burnt at the stake by the leader of the Lotharingian occupation, Carolus. However, Eborin, a mysterious Sage (and Jeigan) rescues them with the help of Andreas and Owen, as well as Marie, a Knight, and Rowan, a Mercenary. Eborin helps them escape, and they resolve to head for Aramea.

Typo. It should be Allania, not Aramea.

Chapter 2: Pursuit

General August Rourgeille, second in command to King Teodor, warns Carolus that he had better catch Genseric or else. When Carolus leaves, Rourgeille privately expresses his disgust with fanatics, wishing that they weren't needed to win the war. Meanwhile, Eborin tells Genseric that he was rescued because it is his destiny to save the world from darkness, and that the dark mages are trying to come back. They defeat the pursuers and forge ahead.

Chapter 3: Allania

The group reaches Allania, where Captain Honoria, commander of Fort Antoninus, greets them. She is joined by Marcus, a legionary with red armor, and Antony, a legionary with green armor. Carolus, however, attacks the fort to capture his quarry, and an easy defense mission ensues. After 7 turns, the Northern Legions under Marshal Aelia Prisca comes to relieve them. Prisca tells Honoria to escort Genseric to the capitol, at which point it is revealed that Honoria is actually Crown Princess Honoria. Honoria is not happy with this assignment, but accepts.

Does Carolus die here? Assuming Aelia doesn't do it, it seems like Rourgeille would execute him for failure. Also, as with Genseric, what sort of class is Honoria?

Chapter 4: I don't know

Filler bandit chapter. Honoria lectures Genseric about the duties of a ruler. Genseric realizes he needs to earn her respect.

This would be a good place to elaborate on Honoria's backstory, especially what she was doing as commander of a border fort. That seems like a strange place to station the Crown Princess. Perhaps punishment for some indiscretion back in the capital?

Chapter 5: Something to do with darkness

Genseric and Honoria fight a group of rogue dark mages. Genseric asks Eborin who he is, and Eborin responds that he comes from a dystopian future where the dark mages brought about the return of the demons. He tells Genseric it is his duty to save the world. Genseric is accepting, but Honoria seems skeptical. Meanwhile, in the capitol of Aramea, King Teodor orders General Matilda Euxpray to attack Allania, General Velasque Chambourd to attack Sithod, and General August Rourgeille to oversee the occupation of Lotharingia. He then talks to the archbishop of Gallicanism, whose face is veiled, where the Archbishop demands that the revival of Saint Gallic go ahead, and Teodor responds that this will only happen in return for Gallican loyalty.

I'm getting a lot of FE6 and FE8 vibes from this. Not a bad thing, but avoid making too many similarities.

So that's the beginning of the story. I'll also try to get a map up later. So far, what do you think?

So far so good. Given what you have there seems to be plenty of room for plot twists, especially with both the Gallicans and dark mages seemingly having sinister plans for the world.

[Moblin Major General]

Here's my plot lined out for the first few chapters:

Prologue: Basically almost how the beginning of Desert Sands plays out, except like how Sacred Stones Prologue plays out, sans the encounter with Valter, as I doubt anyone like Valter would be anywhere close to the Canfalian military.

Chapter 1: The second half of Desert Sands, except the chieftain joins as an Oifey. Akkar tries to cry in fear of his father's life, but finds he can't. The Chieftain, who doesn't have a name yet, says a prayer for Akkar.

Chapter 2: Akkar and the Chieftain are mistaken for bandits and attacked by one of the Thanes. Introduction to Rex, who wants to know what has transpired in front of him.

Chapter 3: Rex and the other Thane have greenies with them as you uncover the real bandits. Recruit one of the Bandits, rescue a prisoner.

Chapter 4: Rex and Akkar stumble onto a graveyard where a shaman accidentally raises the dead. First prep menu, shaman is forced.

Chapter 5: A really stupid live weapons drill of the Archon's troops. Akkar speaks to Mondath about what potentially happened to Malkas. Mondath tells him "in due time." He first commissions him and Rex to find the Shard of Light. Rex is visibly opposed to this given the dire straits in Azodon, but rushes to obey Mondath.

That's all from me, feel free to piss all over it if that's your way of critiquing it.

[blah the Prussian]

So here's the map of the world. Sorry for my shitty handwriting; couldn't be helped. Yes, the mountains and river will be important to attacking Aramea.

Adwin dies in battle against Teodor. Genseric is a Mage Lord, having command of Anima magic. He's a bit less fragile and a bit less fast than most mages, but apart from that pretty similar. Upon promotion he gains either dark or light magic.

Carolus does in fact die here. Either the player does it or Rourgeille does it. Honoria is a class similar to Hector, but she starts out with swords and gains lances on promotion. As for appearance, think a Roman legionary.

The reason why Honoria's at the fort is because Allania works similar to the Roman Empire, and thus its important for the heir to the throne to have supporters in the military. Constantius gave his daughter command of a border fort to avoid accusations of favoritism; for a 19 year old an entire fort is a pretty big assignment.

I did actually get inspiration for Teodor ordering his generals from the scene with Vigarde, so guilty as charged. I suppose Teodor is somewhat similar to Zephiel, but its not intentional.

I'll do more about the story later. For now, how's the map?

[KMT4ever]

So here's the map of the world. Sorry for my shitty handwriting; couldn't be helped. Yes, the mountains and river will be important to attacking Aramea.

Adwin dies in battle against Teodor. Genseric is a Mage Lord, having command of Anima magic. He's a bit less fragile and a bit less fast than most mages, but apart from that pretty similar. Upon promotion he gains either dark or light magic.

Interesting promotion choice? Since both the light-wielding Gallicans and dark-wielding Osvisians seem to be villains, maybe make Genseric's promotion gain the result of a split path where you ally with one side to defeat the other? The final boss is the result of your former ally's schemes. You could make some interesting conflicts between Genseric and his allies based on which path he takes. Eborin would strongly object to helping the Osvisians, while Honoria would be leery of helping Aramea. Clothilde would be caught between her prejudice against Osvisians and her desire to free Lotharingia.

Carolus does in fact die here. Either the player does it or Rourgeille does it. Honoria is a class similar to Hector, but she starts out with swords and gains lances on promotion. As for appearance, think a Roman legionary.

Okay. Pretty conventional lord, then.

The reason why Honoria's at the fort is because Allania works similar to the Roman Empire, and thus its important for the heir to the throne to have supporters in the military. Constantius gave his daughter command of a border fort to avoid accusations of favoritism; for a 19 year old an entire fort is a pretty big assignment.

Makes sense. What's Honoria's opinion of her posting?

I did actually get inspiration for Teodor ordering his generals from the scene with Vigarde, so guilty as charged. I suppose Teodor is somewhat similar to Zephiel, but its not intentional.

Eh. Not a big issue.

I'll do more about the story later. For now, how's the map?

It's...really similar to Europe. Granted Elibe does basically the same thing. What are those Eastern Provinces you have on the right? Are they a Persia or China expy? Are they even relevant to the plot?

[blah the Prussian]

Honoria's opinion is that she's happy to be on the front lines, still having an idealistic approach to war. She's pissed when she's ordered back to her father. Yeah, it does look like Europe; then again, Elibe and West Jugdral are similar to Europe as well. This is a setting based on Europe. No comment as to the relation with dark magic. Finally, the Eastern Provinces are essentially the Roman East. They also, incidentally, bear the brunt of attacks from Osvisia, and the commander of the Eastern Legions, Odazen, has positioned himself as representing the interests of the East. Yeah, you can see where this is going. Finally, there is a China analogue, but it's on the other side of the Steppes and doesn't play much of a role here.

Chapter 6: The Bard from Qinqui

The group is nearing the Imperial Capitol, but they find pirates are raiding a town. They are also attacking Xuantong, a bard from the Qinqui Empire, far to the east. Xuantong was also hired by Constantius to be the private storyteller for Honoria at a young age, so they have some history. His supports with her would mostly be exploring her more vulnerable side (as a child she was phobic of a variety of things and his stories helped her overcome this) and her learning to not be ashamed of her childhood fears. They do not get married, don't worry. Also recruited is Thorbjorn, the rebellious son of King Ulfric of Sithod, who ran away and joined the Pirates. He joins because he doesn't want to hurt innocent people. He's a shitty rebellious teenage edgelord who learns to be less of a shitty edgelord through supports. So anyway, they finally reach the Capitol.

Chapter 7: Shit goes down

Genseric reaches the Capitol and makes his case with Honoria before Constantius III. The Emperor is receptive to the idea of liberating Lotharingia, but mentions that he cannot act until the raids of Osvisian tribes are defeated once and for all. Genseric also mentions the threat of Paganism, which Constantius scoffs at, stating that the pagans have not been a threat for a while. Genseric leaves, and Eborin tells him that he will have to convince Constantius in order to save the world.

Honoria, meanwhile, protests her father's decision to recall her, but Constantius states that he wants to groom her for political leadership, not just military. Empress Katharina then states that she has been trying to pull her younger brother Ulfric into a coalition against Aramea, but he has so far not been receptive; Sothod has long been isolationist, and looks to remain that way.

Just then, a messenger bursts in with news: General Aelia Prisca's northern army has been completely routed, and the Countess herself has been taken prisoner. Matilda Aeuxpray, apparently, used a reckless strategy, throwing everything she had at Allania's center. It payed off, however, and the weakened center was broken, splitting the legions in two. From there they were destroyed piecemeal. Euxpray marches on the Capitol.

Praetorian Prefect Eleftherios Laskaris vows to defend the Capitol, and the Emperor agrees, also ordering the Eastern legions to come to the defense of the West. However, this backfires: Odazen Palmarius, commander of the Eastern Legions, has declared independence, refusing to aid the West and leave his own people un defended against the barbarians. However, many legions have remained loyal to the monarchy, and civil war has broken out.

Constantius summons Genseric, and declares that the decision has been made for him; Allania will liberate Lotharingia, when they don't have bigger things to worry about. Right now, though, they do. Honoria and Genseric are sent to aid the loyalists in the Eastern rebellion, and then wheel around and defend the Capitol. Honoria is happy to prove herself to her father, while Genseric has to go along.

The group first relieve the Duchy of Cappodochia, the property of Prefect Laskaris and an enclave surrounded by rebel territory. When they get there, they find that the Osvisian mercenaries holding the fort have switched sides, hoping to be rewarded by Palmarius. They have also captured the Duke's daughter, Ioanna (a Troubador). Also recruitable here are Alaric, an Osvisian myrmidon who is a contract absolutist (when he is being paid to do something, he will do it or die trying) and Allana, the mother of Ioanna and wife of Eleftherios. She is a prepromote Nomadic Trooper from Osvisia. Here it is also revealed that because Ioanna is half Osvisian, she was bullied in school, and developed a snobby personality as defense; her father being the Emperor's right hand was the only thing she had over the racists, so she used it. This of course will lead to development in supports, and Alaric will also support with Clothilde where the latter overcomes her prejudice; the same applies to Ioanna.

Chapter 8: Battle of the Pass

General Odazen is besieging the loyalist forces in their castle; Honoria wants to get there fast to have as many troops as possible to fight the Arameans. To this end, they launch a siege assault on a castle in a mountain pass. Simple as that. This chapter also sees the recruitment of Aleta, the youngest of Thorbjorn's three elder sisters, and a Pegasus knight. She was sent by Ulfric to get her dumbass brother back, but now that the whole getting the shit invaded out of it by Aramea thing is making it difficult to return to Sithod she decides to stay; otherwise Thorbjorn would singlehandedly throw the war without supervision. In terms of personality, think Susie Derkins with a lance; smart, serious somewhat to a fault, and exasperated constantly by the annoying hyperactive male near her.

Chapter 9: not the Great Divide because Avatar already took that one

Honoria mentions that Odazen has been supporting the Gallicans, who were never persecuted as much in the Eastern Empire as in the West. The group comes across a Gallican militia pogroming a Pagan settlement. Although Eborin says that the Dark Mages are evil, Genseric refuses to let innocents be slaughtered (Honoria ordering him to help as his commanding officer might have also played a role). The leader of the Gallicans talks of taking revenge for the crimes of Constantius; Honoria is confused by this, and resolves to ask the Emperor. The group is also joined by Svetlana, a Dark Mage who's that evangelical Christian you know who's still pretty nice. Zealous, but not to the point of bigotry; you get the idea. Eborin leaves because of this.

Chapter 10: Brother against brother

A soldier suggests going through the desert to get to Odazen. Honoria shuts this idea down, pointing out that going around the desert would be much faster, and then lampshades that they'd probably get attacked by something wierd like a pair of flamboyantly gay bandit twins. Instead, they skirt the desert, arriving at the castle to find to their distress that it has fallen. However, the soldiers surrendered and were taken prisoner, so are still alive. Honoria attacks the troops outside the castle, and wins. However, Odazen is still inside. Honoria also loses her old opinion of war here; the sight of the conflict makes her realize that she has a responsibility to her men. With this in mind, she prepares to save them.

Chapter 11: In at the death

Odazen, inside the castle, is desperate. He orders the prisoners executed as a last act of defiance. What follows is a chapter in which the player has to save the prisoners in time (six turns) and then defeat Odazen. Said general has some choice words for Honoria, accusing her of being a tyrant. Honoria replies that he might have been a good man once, but has clearly gone too far. The prisoners are rescued and the Imperial army's ranks swell, but Honoria and Genseric don't have time to celebrate: a messenger reveals that Matilda Euxpray has besieged the Capitol.

[blah the Prussian]

So I'm going to update this despite the double post, if that's okay. This one, incidentally, has a massive plot twist, and I'm interested to know what you all think.

Chapter 12: Something or other

The army reaches the gates of the Capitol(which I decided is named Nuvalum). General Euxpray has breached the walls, but in doing so she has left her camp vulnerable to a surprise attack, which the group are all too happy to provide. This map uses what I'm tentatively calling reverse fog of war, where you can see the enemy's line of sight, and victory depends on catching them by surprise. There could also be enemies with huge stat penalties until some amount of turns in, to simulate being caught by surprise.

Chaoter 13: Battle of Nuvalum

With the army surrounded, Euxpray orders her troops to loot the town and attempt to break out. Thus, the bulk of the army moves away while thieves ransack the city. The player can either save buildings for money and some extremely powerful weapons, or attack the fleeing soldiers for exp. Any soldiers that escape will also be evenly spread across later maps where Aramea is the enemy. After doing what the player chooses, Honoria and Genseric enter the palace.

Chapter 14: General Matilda Euxpray

Honoria and Genseric enter the palace to find that Emperor Constantius is defending the throne room from Euxpray with Empress Katherina and Prefect Eleftherios. Euxpray goes on the defensive, and, despite her personal guard putting up a spirited defense, she is defeated and captured. As she is led away, she tries to use magic to attack Genseric one more time, but her strike is blocked by Eborin. Genseric is happy at first, but...

Chapter 15: Betrayal

Eborin turns around and blasts the Emperor with light magic, revealing himself as the Archbishop of Gallicanism (the Archbishop in prior cutscenes was a double). He then steals the Fire Emblem, which allows the wielded to channel the dead, and turns and runs away, pursued by Genseric and Honoria. When they reach the city, however, they find that Eborin and his light mages have disguised themselves as civilians. The player must talk to civilians to out them (you can attack after talking) but at the same time, some mages will reveal themselves and launch surprise attacks. Basically, a simulation of guerrilla warfare, with the player as the stronger army.

After the battle is over, Honoria begins to help survivors of the attack, while Genseric runs out after Eborin. He finds the Archbishop on a cliff overlooking the camp of the remnants of Euxpray's army. Genseric demands to know why Eborin betrayed them. Eborin replies that he seeks Justice, and recounts a story about how when he was a child, he was from a family of relatively moderate Gallicans; they prayed, but we're not devout, and wanted to let the Reformers believe what they wanted. However, that didn't stop Constantius III from massacring all males above 14 in revenge for the Gallican murder of his parents (Constantius was 15 when he fled the assassins, and so resolved to show mercy to those younger than him). This included Eborin's older brother and father. His mother fled with him to Aramea, but en route they were attacked by Osvisian barbarians. His mother died to save him. He was radicalized, and swore revenge against the Reformers, wanting to destroy the Allanian Empire. He rose through the ranks of the church, eventually becoming archbishop. He does, however, apologize profusely for the fall of Lotharingia; Teodor, he says, is far too dangerous. The King harbors ambitions to purge the Gallicans when he no longer needs them. Eborin offers to give Genseric Lotheringia in exchange for helping him stage a coup against Teodor.

At this point in the game the player has a choice between joining Eborin and remaining with Honoria. As I only have the Honoria option planned out, I'll stick with that, but I absolutely will return and do siding with Eborin. Incidentally, Honoria is the more morally correct choice, though siding with Eborin makes you a darker shade of gray.

So as it is, Genseric goes back to Nuvalum. We then see Honoria and her mother mourning her father. She will be crowned Empress tomorrow. Then, the counterattack against Aramea will begin.

[Moblin Major General]

Chapter 6: Fire Emblem (I know this is used for 2 different chapters, one of which is the same chapter number as this)- Once they receive their command from Mondath, Akkar and Rex head out into some of the lesser travelled foothills of Irilethia. They find a trail that they believe my turn them onto the Shard of Light, but the way to the shrine is blocked by a particularly notorious band of soldiers who demand a king's ransom to pass to the shrine citing "insurance in case you die in the pass." Rex decides to knock heads, and Akkar wonders if these are actual soldiers of the Imperium, to which Rex confirms, much to his chagrin. When the soldiers surrender, Rex decides to retain the leader.

Chapter 7: The Gauntlet- a cave comes up and the group has to get through. Akkar spots some treasure hunters along the route to the rumored location. Feeling obligated to protect the resting place of the Shard of Light, the entire group attacks the treasure hunters and gathers a massive fortune.

Chapter 8: Previous adventurers have their bones reanimated by a Summoner. This one has a pseudo-time limit as on a certain turn, the Druid will spawn a max-level, max-stats Dragon Zombie. The Shard of Light reveals the Dragon Irithel, the patron dragon of Light. They tell her of Mondath's given quest, and she replies with the location of the Shard of Earth. They leave, hoping she will find Mondath on her own.

Chapter 9: King's Ransom- Rex all of a sudden has a bad feeling about something and rushes off to find a wooden fort. There, he hears Mondath mouthing off to someone, obviously angered. Rex busts in and discovers people clad in Canfalian Armor. After this sort of long fight, Akkar asks a dying soldier what is going on in Azodon. The soldier retorts that the 5 generals were absolutely against conquering the whole of Azodon and are waiting for Akkar. Rex senses a trap, something that Akkar already supposedly knows.

Chapter 10: Kingdom of Magic- Mage, Monk, Sage, and Bishop greenies join you against a group of Canfalians at the border. This battle is long, and introduces you to one of the 5 generals, Nox. Nox reveals that Canfalia is also looking for the Fire Emblem Shards, and were attempting to pry it from Akkar. When Akkar reveals that the shards are the sealed dragons themselves, Nox leaves to meet with the other Generals. They call a proxy session of the Conclave with the commisaries, and announce their overruling of the invasion, citing they got what they wanted. The conclave states their desire for Nox to remain on the Board, an action with no precedent. Nox agrees, and moves the military back into Canfalia. Elsewhere, Akkar finds the dragon Azodia inside a less protected shrine and gets his wisdom.

Chapter 11: Akkar finds that it is not Canfalia attacking Castle Azodon anymore, but rather Lytheria. The Wyvern general barely survives combat with Malkas and retreats outside the wall. Here, the generics find themselves at a significant disadvantage. Akkar attacks the legion, killing their leader. Malkas comes out of the castle and embraces Akkar. Akkar is slightly unsettled as to why Lytheria invaded. Malkas speaks about Canfalia wanting to make sure that Azodon did not interfere in a potential Holy War that Canfalia wishes to impose upon Lytheria for a religion that worships a seemingly powerful dragon. Akkar, unsure of what to make of this, decides to stay in Azodon for a time, and Rex agrees. However, Rex is soon recalled to Irilethia, as Mondath tells him of his impending retirement. Here is the route split, as Akkar will venture to Lytheria to find the cause of the mysterious cult that seemingly many in Lytheria now follow, or Rex as he rushes to continue Mondath's work, primarily in trying to awaken Canfalia's dragon.