FFXII Scenario Ultimania

Relationships at the beginning of the game (Page 10-11):


Loving/Familial/Friendship

Ashe – Vossler (Trust/Loyalty)
Ashe - Rassler (Wife/Husband)
Ashe – Raminas (Daughter/Father)
Vaan – Penelo (Foster Family)
Vaan – Reks (Brothers)
Ondore – Reddas (Contact)
Ondore – Raminas (Sworn Allies)
Fran – Balthier (Partners in Crime/Pals)
Al-Cid – Larsa (Friends)
Larsa – Gramis (Love and Respect/Son)
Larsa – Vayne (Love and Respect)
Drace -> Larsa (Support)
Bergan -> Vayne (Adoration)
Bergan -> Zecht (Esteem)
Drace – Gabranth (Comrades/Kindred Souls)
Vayne – Cid (Kindred Souls and Closest Friends)
Dalmasca – Nabradia (Sibling Countries)
Ondore -> Dalmascan Resistance (Support?)


Antagonistic

Ashe -> Basch (Revenge)
Ashe -> Archadian Empire (Hatred)
Basch-> Raminas (Assassination?)
Vaan -> Basch (Revenge)
Vaan -> Archadian Empire (Hatred)
Basch – Gabranth (Origin)
Drace -> Vayne (Suspicion)
Gabranth -> Vayne (Spying at the emperor’s behest)
Vayne -> Elder Solidor Brothers (Ordered to execute them by the emperor)
Senate -> Vayne (Considered disagreeable and dangerous)
Balthier – Cid (?)
Cid – Reddas (?)
Senate –> House Solidor (Antagonism)
Rozarria - > Archadian Empire (Antagonism)


Other

Vossler -> Basch (Former Brothers in Arms)
Archadian Empire -> Ondore (Diplomatic Pressure)
Senate -> Larsa (Attempting to install as the next emperor)
Senate -> Elder Solidor Brothers (Instigated them to rebel)
Ghis -> Larsa (Tasked to watch over him)
Vayne -> Ghis (Gives clandestine orders)
Vayne -> Zecht (Gives clandestine orders)
Gabranth -> Ba'Gamnan (Used for dirty work)





Character profiles (Page 24-25; 28)



Larsa Ferrinas Solidor
Age: 12
An untainted imperial prince, living in the world of ideals

Although only 12, his political and military acumen astonishes experienced politicians and soldiers.  A brilliant child and the fourth son of Emperor Gramis, he is second in line for the imperial throne after his brother Vayne. As a man of House Solidor he has received thorough education on what it means to rule and stand above the people. Although he has been shaped to be a good emperor, his lack of real world experience means there is danger that he may not see the difference between ideals and reality. Pure and holding peace in high regard, he trusts people implicitly. Loves and respects his father Gramis and his brother Vayne and wishes to become their strength.

Defining Lines:

"Be not troubled. My brother is a remarkable man.“
(Marquis Ondore's Drawing Room; almost boasting to Penelo)
Although everyone imagines Larsa and Vayne to be rivals for the throne, Larsa himself loves and respects Vayne deeply and has nothing but praise for his ability as a statesman. And he has no knowledge of his blood-stained history...

“We must see this through, and get to the bottom of it. I believe 'tis for the good of the Empire.“
(Dreadnought Leviathan; finding people who should not exist, he lets Ashe escape)
The desire to unravel a troubling mystery stems from the inherent desire to protect the Archadian Empire. Loving peace but still acting like a proper Imperial is characteristic for Larsa.




Vayne Carudas Solidor
Age: 27
An ambitious and ruthless man forged by war

As the third son of the emperor Gramis, he is the best and most qualified candidate for the throne. A man with a keen and brilliant mind and exceedingly good understanding of people’s desires, he has proven himself in the military affairs to the point he is called a “war genius”. Led the Imperial Army when they captured Dalmasca and Nabradia in one fell swoop. Now, two years later, he has been appointed as the Consul of the former Dalmascan capital Rabanastre. It seems he had something to do with the destruction of Nabudis and Raminas’ assassination, but the details are uncertain. A regal and stately young man, he seems open and sociable, but the depths of his heart lie concealed and for him, the end justifies the means. His relentlessness has earned him suspicion and fear.

Defining Lines:

"Here I will pay my debt."
(Rabanastre; assuming the post of the Consul)
By openly recognizing his position as the „invader“ and showing his understanding of the people of Dalmasca he defused people’s animosity considerably.  Whatever his true feelings, his finesse is remarkable.

„The sword of House Solidor cannot be left to rust in doubt. It was you, Excellency, who tempered that sword.“
(The Imperial Palace of Archades; Vayne’s reply to his father’s words, seemingly blaming him for his ruthlessness)
At the age of 16, Vayne secretly put to the sword his two older brothers who were plotting a rebellion. The one who gave him that cruel order was none other than his father, the emperor. Since then Vayne has walked a bloody path in life, tempering himself into the Sword of Solidor. Purged of sentiment and doubt, that sword has long surpassed his father’s schemes for him and shines sharply even now.

“Larsa is as he should be.”
(The Imperial Palace of Archades; reacting to Cid’s remark about Larsa’s sweet nature)
Vayne does not deny that his only younger brother is sweet and somewhat naïve. He knows that his people need both – his ruthless strength and Larsa's gentle rule. And so Vayne continues to dirty his hands, to spare his brother from the same fate.



Gramis Gana Solidor
Age: 63
An old emperor troubled by the succession

The 11th emperor of Archadia and the 4th emperor from the House Solidor. An esteemed warrior in his youth, he took the throne at the age of 31 and spent his early years in aggressive conquests. His advancing age and illness have prompted him to adopt a more moderate stance in the last few years.  Maintaining the Solidor line has always been his primary concern, and when he had his two eldest sons killed for plotting a treason, he covered it up by declaring they died in battle. Although he highly values both Vayne's almost callously practical mind and Larsa's warmth, since Nabudis’ destruction he has had Vayne watched and secretly spied on.
Realizing that the Senate is planning to eliminate Vayne and install Larsa as their puppet emperor, he hatches his own plan how to preserve House Solidor.



Cidolfus Demen Bunansa
Age: 58
A genius plunging to regain the "true history"

The director of the Archadian secret research facility Draklor and the head of the aristocratic House Bunansa. A preeminent scientist and engineer, he is one of the few who hold the title “Etoria”.  Always known to be an eccentric and obstinate man, he has become even stranger after returning from his research expedition to Jagd Difohr six years ago and acquired a habit to mutter incomprehensible things to himself.  As his son, for whom he had held high hopes, abandoned him, he focused on Vayne’s brilliant mind and talent.  Together they decided to create a new age, planning to produce Nethicite in secret from both the Senate and the emperor. He and Vayne are kindred souls and extremely close friends.

He likes to recite the phrase “The reins of history back in the hands of Man” seemingly to thin air, but Vayne does not mind his eccentricities.





(From the Senate hearing; page 183)
Gramis himself could not decide his successor, being unable to choose between overly harsh Vayne and overly gentle Larsa.  Nevertheless, Gramis knew well that at the time Vayne’s loss would mean a death sentence to his younger brother as well.  Larsa’s hidden brilliance and strength were ultimately not that different from his brother’s. The moment the Senate realized it, they would cut him down while he's still young and weak.  And for now, it was still too early to warn Larsa of the danger…
But there was another way. Faint for now, a certain idea born from his deathly ill state took root in Gramis’ mind.







Ivalice Chronology (Pages 46 - 47)


Antiquity – The Age of Gods –
Years Unknown – The so-called “Undying Ones” control Ivalice. Wielding unprecedented power, they rule and direct all men.
Years Unknown – The Undying Ones suddenly disappear.  Bereft of their rulers, Ivalice descends into conflict.
Years Unknown – The Ancient Galteans spread their cultural sphere of influence over all of Ivalice.
About 2000 Years Ago - The Light of Kiltia rises.

Middle Ages – Raithwall and the Galtean Alliance –

700 Years Ago – A Valendian noble named Raithwall begins his conquest to unite Ivalice
Year 0 of the Old Valendian Calendar - Raithwall unites Ivalice. Establishes the Galtean Alliance.
44 O.V. – Raithwall passes away. His oldest son inherits the Galtean Alliance, his second son founds House Dalmasca, and his third son House Nabradia.
394 O.V. - The Galtean Alliance falls apart.

Modern Age – Two Superpowers and Two Small Lands –
398 O.V. – Rozarrian Empire is established.
486 O.V. – Archadian Republic evolves into an empire. Archadian Empire is established.
504 O.V. - Rozarrian Empire continues its transformation into a military state. Increasingly antagonistic towards the Archadian Empire.
704 O.V. - Archadian Empire invades the Kingdom of Nabradia.


The Undying Ones from the Myths
In the Antiquity, the Undying Ones ruled Ivalice. Using men as their slaves, they transformed the land and conquered it. Called the Undying Ones, they were revered as gods, yet suddenly they disappeared, leaving the people in strife and conflict.








Page 026-027


Rassler Heios Nabradia
Age: 18
Ashe’s husband, who lost his life on the battlefield
The second prince of the Kingdom of Nabradia. In order to prepare for the growing threat of the Archadian Empire, the kingdoms of Dalmasca and Nabradia decided to strengthen their alliance and created a political marriage between Rassler and Ashe. However, the Nabradian capital Nabudis fell just a few days after the marriage ceremony, following the Archadian invasion. Wishing to take revenge for the death of his father and House, Rassler rushed towards the Nalbina Fortress and took an arrow to the chest, which cost him his life. His marriage to his wife Ashe actually lasted less than a week, but it was a relationship of trust and mutual support, so his death hit Ashe hard.



Reks
Age: 18
A tragic accidental victim of a conspiracy plot
Vaan’s older brother, two years older than him. When he was 17, as old as Vaan is now, he decided to join the Dalmascan Volunteer Corps, shortly before the subject of peace between Dalmasca and Archadia came under discussion.  He was assigned to the force commanded by Bash and Vossler and ended up in the Nalbina Fortress when trying to stop the planned assassination of King Raminas. What he found there, however, was a scene of assassination, with Bash as the killer. He was captured as the only survivor of the assassin group and subjected to a number of drug- and magic-based truth serums to make him confess. The treatment damaged his mind and he spent a year as an invalid, eventually passing away. A mild and gentle boy, he was fond of the fragrant red Galbana Lilies.




Raminas B’Nargin Dalmasca
Age: 66
And old and benevolent monarch who loved his people
Ashe’s father and the ruling king during the fall of Dalmasca. He was 49 years old when his youngest daughter Ashe was born. He already had eight sons, though he eventually lost them all to illnesses and conflicts. When the marriage pact between Ashe and Rassler of Nabradia failed to do much to contain the Archadian threat, he accepted the capitulation and headed for the Nalbina Fortress, where he was assassinated, his wish for peace notwithstanding. He had told the location of the Dawn Shard to Bash, hoping it could potentially bring Ashe the throne.




Page 032

The man who disappeared at Nabudis – Judge Zecht
The Judge Magister (real name Foris Zecht), who was tasked by Vayne to capture the Nabradian capital of Nabudis two years ago. He was a man known to be as hard and obstinate as Judge Bergan and was the Judge Magister responsible for the 8th Imperial Fleet, commonly called the Leviathan Fleet. Since his 8th Fleet was the leading force of the army under Vayne’s direct command, he and Vayne tended to move together. Under Vayne’s command he decimated the Rozarrian fleet advancing from the west and then moved to capture Nabudis. However, just after the Imperial forces entered the capital, a mysterious explosion devastated Nabudis. Judge Zecht has not been seen since, but apparently he had a received some clandestine orders from Vayne beforehand.



The Senate
In the Archadian political system, it is the Senate whose voice counts the most. The current head of Imperial Senate is Chairman Gregoroth. A legislative organ that has existed since the times of the republic, the members are chosen exclusively from the privileged patrician caste and in reality is completely dominated by a handful of aristocratic Houses. They do not govern directly, but they review and approve the Emperor’s decisions and can even force the Emperor to abdicate (The Right of Dethronement). For this reason, their actual influence in the Archadian politics is unfathomably large.
The Senate is a long-time political enemy of House Solidor and has schemed to take over the government by using members of the House, weakening House Solidor at the same time. In the midst of rumors about the Emperor’s terminal illness and his potential successor, the Senate is trying to fashion Larsa into a puppet Emperor. To do that, they need to topple the capable and immensely popular Vayne and so they are searching for any excuse or pretext that would allow them to remove Vayne from the political stage.









(Page 047-048)



The Age Shrouded in Mists of History
The events from the time of Ivalice’s beginnings and the Antiquity are only known from legends and myths.  Most of them are skewed by the influence of those in power at the time and human nature, so their historical validity is virtually zero. However, the existence of the so-called Undying Ones is the one point that these accounts agree on.

Tales about the Dynast-King’s Feats
Several Antique civilizations collapsed, plunging Ivalice into a turbulent age with a great number of city states vying for power. It was at this point when Raithwall, the future Dynast-King, appeared. Determined to unite Ivalice and armed with the sword and Nethicite granted to him by the Gods, he launched a military campaign. He quickly pacified the turbulent Valendian continent, then the entire Ivalice, and later established the Galtean Alliance. The entire process took over a decade.

Due to his superhuman feats, Raithwall inspired many myths and legends. Some of these legends say he subjugated the oddities or ‘devils’ who had disobeyed the gods and made them into his servants. There are even stories about him that should probably be called fairytales.
Raithwall did not rule by military might alone; he was also imbued with compassion. After establishing the Alliance, he is remembered as a wise king who ruled for the people.


400 Years of Galtean Peace
After Raithwall’s death, his eldest son inherited his House, while the second and third son founded House Dalmasca and House Nabradia respectively, supporting the main branch of the royal dynasty and preserving the Galtean Alliance. The peace benefited the development of the future Archadian Empire and Rozarrian Empire as well. While these city states grew and gained a growing sense of independence, the Galtean Alliance gradually declined. On 392 O.V., the Galtean royal family died off, and two years later, the Galtean Alliance was declared to be dissolved.

The Birth of Two Military Empires
After the dissolution of the Galtean Alliance, the main seats of power became the Archadian Empire and Rozarrian Empire.
The former city state of Archadia spent the second half of the Galtean era as a republic, gradually growing in power and consolidating the neighboring states. About 100 years after the dissolution of the Galtean Alliance, it was reborn into the Archadian Empire. Rozarria, on the other hand, established itself as an Empire right upon the fall of the Alliance and spent the next century pursuing a relatively moderate policy. However, as the might of the newborn Archadian Empire quickly grew, Rozarria suffered one defeat after another. House Margrace, who championed the moderate approach, lost the throne and Rozarria rapidly changed into a military state, launching an intense conflict with Archadia. Both Nabradia and Dalmasca, geographically situated between the two, would also be caught up in the clash.

704 O.V. – Behind the Scenes of the War for Nabradia
In the past several years, the Kingdom of Nabradia, adjacent to the Archadian Empire, found itself under its diplomatic pressure on many occasions. Aiming to counteract that pressure, Nabradia arranged a marriage between its second prince Rassler and Dalmascan princess Ashe in order to strengthen the ties between the two countries. The pro-Rozarrian, "Mother Rozarria" faction had also grown in power and influence, pushing for invitation of armed forces from its ally Rozarria and eventually sparking a civil war. Vayne, the third son of House Archadia, then made his move. Nominally entering to stop the civil war, he crushed the alliance before Rozarria could dispatch its reinforcements.
Although Nabradia may seem to have annihilated itself, there were Vayne’s schemes behind the scenes. Few know it, but he secretly pulled some strings in the Mother Rozarria faction as well.









(Page 86-87)


Ivalice Races

Humes
Also known as humans, they are the most numerous of all Ivalice races. Humans represent about 40% of all intelligent life on Ivalice.
The average human lifespan is 60 years – rather short compared to other races.  They do not particularly excel physically or intellectually. However, Humes are notable for their high reproduction rate and insatiable curiosity, which led them to spread all over the world and expand their range of activity. They are also highly adaptable – sometimes even adapting the environment to their needs – and are continuing to broaden their sphere of living even now.
Humes tend to exhibit a strong drive for power and domination. This desire led them to consolidate multiple settlements together, eventually creating countries. Due to their strong interest in politics and economy, Humes comprise the majority of the ruling class in every single country.
Keenly aware of the difference in their status, high-ranked individuals use three names: first name, middle name, and family name.

The Race of Desire
Compared to other races, Humes are inordinately preoccupied with money and power.  The current situation in Ivalice, with multiple countries ruthlessly competing with each other, was born from this desire to dominate more land, more people, and to obtain more power.
On the other hand, human lust for knowledge and inquiry has also been the driving force behind the development of technology and learning. Complex systems of government that integrate multiple institutions, beautiful architecture, rich and diverse fashions, the need to lead a richer and safer life – all this is the crystallization of the ‘desire’ that is so typical for Humes.

Ivalice Minority Races
Everybody knows Humes or the Bangaa, but Ivalice is also the home of many small races with a very modest population (minority races).
To name one example, the Gran Kiltias of the Kiltia Church is a Helgas. Notable for their tall and slender stature and long fingers covered with white fur, they are remarkably long-lived and highly intelligent, but there is only a handful of them. Another minority race are the beast-like and agile Rev; several of them serve as Ondore’s attendants.

Even by Helgas standards, Gran Kiltias Anastasis reached a very advanced age. In Hume years, he would be over 120 years old.
The Rev serving Marquis Ondore. Erudite and martially accomplished, they serve as both his advisors and protectors.



(Page 72-73)

Power of Magick
Mist and magicite, which is a condensed form of its power, is the source of mysterious magickal phenomena and the power source for mechanical devices. It would not be an exaggeration to say that the Ivalice civilization rests on these two things.

Energy That Permeates All Land
The natural energy that permeates both the land and air in Ivalice is called Mist. Mist only gains color when it reaches higher concentrations  – normally it is transparent and invisible to the naked eye.
There is a difference in Mist amount, quality, type, and attributes depending on the region. This creates differences in climate and environment. Overly dense Mist can have various effects on its surroundings, such as causing spontaneous mutations in living beings.
Over the course of history, people have devised ways how to harness Mist and use it in their livelihood. At first they started using magick, with the Mist-rich minerals as the mediator, but eventually they created technology that would allow them to compress Mist through artificial means and then draw out its power. That led to rich engineering discoveries and many technological solutions such as airships were born from this development. Today, Mist-based technology represents the vast majority of tech used in daily life.

Magicite
Stones Brimming with the Power of Mist
Minerals containing an unusually high concentration of Mist are called magicite or “crystals”. Since this stable form of Mist is relatively easy to draw out, magicite is widely used as an easily controllable energy source.
The size of a particular magicite stone has no bearing on the amount of Mist contained within; just because a stone is large does not mean it will contain plenty of Mist. Furthermore, most magicite cannot accumulate new Mist, so once depleted, it becomes an ordinary rock.
Magicite mines with rich veins are scattered all over Ivalice, but there is not that many of them. For this reason, magicite – especially high-quality magicite – commands a high price.

The Nethicite of Legends
Most magicite can only release Mist, but there is a special variety that can absorb the Mist from its surroundings and store it. This type is called nethicite.
Nethicite appears in traditional narratives, but since almost nobody has ever seen it in person, for the general public it remains a thing of legends. However, select researchers have confirmed its existence and Draklor Laboratory, a secret Archadian weapon research institute, is now progressing research on how to create nethicite through artificial means.
Some legends say that the magicite granted to King Raithwall by the Gods was actually nethicite…













(Pages 050-051-052)

Archadian Empire
An Eastern Military Superpower Contending for Domination

Power Structure Data
Controlled territory: Valendian continent, Bainqueur region (partially), Dalmascan lands, other
Capital: Imperial Capital of Archades
Government structure: Imperial government + senate
Army structures: Western Armada, Kerwon Legion, Air Force, Navy, others
Friendly powers: Sky City of Bhujerba (pretence of friendliness)
Adversarial powers: Rozarrian Empire, Liberation Army


Chronology of Archadian Empire

324 O.V. – On Senate’s insistence, the City State of Archadia switches to a parliamentary system. The country is renamed to the Archadian Republic.
394 O.V. – Upon the dissolution of the Galtean Alliance, Archadian Republic establishes itself as an independent country. Begins to consolidate neighbouring countries through military force.
486 O.V. – A People’s Tribune with a military background is crowned as the emperor. The country’s name changes to the Archadian Empire.
615 O.V. – A Justice Minister from the Senatorial House Solidor is crowned as the emperor. Restrains the powers of the military. Public Safety Bureau is established.
674 O.V. – Gramis Gana Solidor of House Solidor is crowned as the 11th Archadian emperor. His ascension marks a notable increase of military pressure on nearby countries.
687 O.V. – Invasion of the Republic of Landis and its subjugation.
704 O.V – Intervention into Nabradian civil war. Having reorganized the 8th Fleet into the spear point of the Galtean pacification force, Vayne, emperor’s third son, assumes command.
Following month after Ashe and Rassler’s wedding – Archadian army crushes Rozarrian forces in western Nabudis, Nabradian capital, and advances into Nabudis.
Kingdom of Dalmasca declares war on the Archadian Empire.
The Kingdom of Nabradia is crushed. Archadian army advances on Dalmasca.
Archadian army captures the Nalbina Fortress, dealing a fatal blow to Dalmasca’s army defenses.
Four months after Ashe and Rassler’s wedding – Archadian Empire issues a recommendation to surrender to the Kingdom of Dalmasca. King Raminas is assassinated on the peace treaty signing. Peace talks stall.
Five months after Ashe and Rassler’s wedding – Marquis Ondore, the ruler of the Sky City of Bhujerba, presents a public report about the suicide of Princess Ashe and execution of Bash, the culprit behind King Raminas’ assassination.
Archadian Army surrounds the Dalmascan capital Rabanastre. Dalmasca surrenders unconditionally.



Ouline – One of the Two Superpowers Vying for Domination
A powerful country that takes up most of the Eastern part of Ivalice. Originally but one of many city states within the Galtean Alliance, Archadia has evolved from a republic to an empire to become a full-fledged military state and one of the two rival superpowers of Ivalice. Rooted in public discourse since the country’s inception, Archadian legal system is very progressive and rational. Despite the notable class differences, most of the population enjoys a comparatively high living standard and meritocratic arrangements ensure that one can climb the social ladder purely through his or her own ability and competence.
Despite being rather similar to Rozarria in both size and history, the two countries have been deeply hostile to each other for nearly two hundred years and have engaged in many military clashes without getting closer to any resolution. The current emperor Gramis tried to break the stalemate, embarking on an aggressive expansionist campaign to consolidate the neighbouring lands.  He also applied diplomatic pressure on the neighbouring Nabradia. Two years ago, the tense and anxious Nabradia finally descended into a civil war after the revolt of the pro-Rozarrian faction and Archadia invaded, nominally to pacify the internal turmoil. It conquered Nabradia’s sibling country Dalmasca in the process, establishing a secure buffer against Rozarria.

Complex Powerplay around Nabradia
Archadian Empire -> Nabradia (exerts diplomatic pressure)
Archadian Empire -> Nabradia (strives to obtain it as a secure buffer zone)
Rozarrian Empire -> Nabradia (strives to obtain it as a secure buffer zone)
Rozarrian Empire – Nabradia (alliance)
Nabradia -> Archadian Empire (resistance)
Nabradia – Dalmasca (agreement)
Nabradian Pro-Rozarrian faction -> Rozarrian Empire (wants Rozarria to station its forces inside Nabradia for protection)



Politics – Carrying City State Traditions

Although Archadia was established as a parliamentary country, as war became an everyday concern and directness and efficiency grew increasingly necessary, a streamlined system that omits lengthy considerations was born. Government-military officials became Tribunes, appointed for life, and eventually evolved into the first emperors, paving way for the current imperial system.
In today’s Archadian Empire, the legislative, administrative, and legal authority lies in the hands of the emperor. Or so it seems. In truth, in many cases the emperor’s hands are tied and he cannot act without the final approval from the Senate. The Senate has learned from the early days of the empire, when they were upstaged by the military.
Influenced by the Archadian city state history and origins, Archadian population has a traditionally high sense of civic participation. Since both the emperor and the senators are elected, securing the support from their people is a major task for any candidate.
Although emperor holds most of the power in the country, the Senate’s influence on the policy is vast.

Culture – Birth of a Technological Superpower
Archadia is not blessed with fertile lands or rich natural resources, forcing it to rely on learning and invention instead. It has prioritized pursuit of knowledge since its city state days, founding many learning institutions and establishing itself as the capital of scholars and academics. This historical development lies behind the Archadian Empire’s position as the technological superpower of today. Even now, the Imperial Capital of Archades is known as the nexus of information and learning of all kinds, famous for its excellent and productive magick scholars and engineers. Its airship manufacturing and technology rivals even that of the Skycity of Bhujerba, and among the wealthy Archadians it is fairly common to own private airships.
The empire’s level of technological development is clearly demonstrated by the futuristic skyline of Archades and soaring air taxis and public transport.  Although Archadians generally prize rational and progressive thought, there are also deeply rooted caste-based biases in the election system and participation and discriminatory attitudes towards non-humans.

The towering skyscrapers of Archades are a visual example of the Archadian Empire’s technological edge.
Since Archadia has been historically populated mostly by Humes, suspicious attitudes towards other races can be observed even today.

Archadian Citizenship System
Archadia is a traditionally multicultural society, due to its long history of consolidating neighbouring lands and absorbing their population. This process has been going since the republican days. On the flipside, the native Archadians were eager to preserve their rights, which created a rather rigid class system. Archadian population is broadly divided into three main classes: Patricians, New Citizens, and Outsiders, and the institutional differences between them remain large even today.
Only Patricians and New Citizens enjoy full civic rights. Although the largest in numerical terms, the Outsider class is not permitted to have a permanent residence within the established Imperial cities and is not protected by law. However, there are ways how Outsiders can become New Citizens. First, one can obtain full citizenship by earning enough money. Second, one can enter the army and earn the full citizenship via meritorious service. Even one born in the deepest dregs of society can become a person of power and influence if he or she has the ability for it, and this knowledge keeps the imperial citizens very busy and motivated.


Notable Class Features

Patricians
The natively privileged upper class. Consists of Humes only.
Can elect both the emperor and senators; emperors and senators are chosen from this caste exclusively.
Many pre-eminent families go back to the republican era and this class is keenly protective of their election rights.


New Citizens
The so-called commoners. Include both Humes and non-Humes.
Can vote for the emperor, but a New Citizen’s vote has much less power than that of a Patrician.
Even an Outsider can become a New Citizen if he obtains full citizenship.
Outsiders
Includes refugees, wanderers, the very poor, and some people from conquered territories.
Are not full-fledged citizens, not protected by law.
Even a Patrician or New Citizen can become an Outsider if they are stripped of their citizenship.



The Archadian Senate and House Solidor


Presently, the Archadian political power is divided between House Solidor, who have ruled for four generations, and the patrician caste, represented by the Senate. The Senators hold their posts for life.

The Senate has wielded political power since the republican times, but its influence dwindled as Archadia continued to expand and the power of the military rose. At that point, a member of the aristocratic House Solidor (an old member of the Senate as well) proposed to cooperate with the military reformists. In exchange for their cooperation, the Senate regained some of the privileges and returned into politics. While seemingly supporting the Senate, House Solidor acquired influence within the military circles through the Judges and consolidated their power. The moment that became clear, the relations between House Solidor and the Senate cooled to zero. Since then, the Senate has been constantly instigating the patrician caste against the emperor, searching for fitting candidates who would challenge the throne, and scheming and attempting to eliminate House Solidor altogether. Nevertheless, House Solidor, supported by ordinary citizens, has held strong.
Now that the time to choose the next emperor is drawing near, the cold war between the two factions is growing hotter once again.


Power Distribution in Archadian Politics

Patricians - antagonistic towards New Citizens
-	support the Senate

Senate - hostile towards the military
-	in conflict with House Solidor

New Citizens – antagonistic towards Patricians
-	support House Solidor

House Solidor - in conflict with the Senate
-	commands Judges, who in turn audit and oversee the military

Military - supports House Solidor
-	hostile toward the Senate








(Summary of the Senate hearing; page 183)


As the Pall of Death Hangs over the Emperor, the Worms Wriggle in the Darkness of the Senate

The destruction of the Leviathan Fleet, one wing of the Western Armada, sends shocks through the Imperial City of Archades.
Even in wartime, a total destruction of the entire fleet with almost no survivors is unthinkable. Various theories start flying about the cause — a surprise attack by Rozarria, a new weapon, or perhaps some trouble with the new type of Skystone that the fleet was known to carry. There are also those who point out the gruesome similarities between the traces  of the Leviathan Fleet’s destruction and the mysterious phenomenon that took out Nabudis. Yet the death of the fleet commander Judge Ghis, who was operating under clandestine directives from Vayne, means that the truth will remain uncertain.

Although this was a painful blow for the Empire, there are individuals in the capital for whom this sorrowful report is but a cause for unbridled joy. Namely for the Senate, filled with people solely preoccupied with waging a constant political war against House Solidor. They care not a whit about the cause of the disaster; they are simply happy that it involves one fact. The fact that Vayne, who had once again gained much power over the last two years, had issued a careless order that was somehow connected with the destruction of the crucial fleet.

The Senate views this as a once in a lifetime opportunity to kill a troublesome political rival and eagerly condemn him before Gramis, laying all the blame and responsibility for the incident solely at Vayne’s feet. Allude to the Right of Dethronement, make Emperor dispose of Vayne with his own hands, and put the fourth imperial prince Larsa, who is still a young child, on the throne — such is their plan. Larsa is still a mere child, so once he were made the emperor, the Senate would be free to manipulate him to their heart’s content. With House Solidor as their obedient puppet, the time for the Senate to grasp the real power would finally come.

The silent and thoughtful Gramis faces the Senators, who do not even bother to conceal their ambition. After all, Gramis can do nothing but enable Vayne’s judgement. He himself had been unsure who should be the next emperor, unable to decide between the overly harsh Vayne and overly gentle Larsa. Nevertheless, Gramis knows well that at the time, Vayne’s loss would mean a death sentence to his younger brother as well.  Larsa’s hidden brilliance and strength are ultimately not that different from his brother’s. The moment the Senate realized it, they would cut him down while he is still young and weak. And for now, it is still too early to warn Larsa of the danger…

But there is another way. Faint for now, a certain idea born from his deathly ill state takes root in Gramis’ mind.









(Summary of the coup/Bur-Omisace raid; page 191)


As the Imperial Capital Reels After the Emperor’s Assassination, Vayne’s Ascension to Autocracy Makes the World Tremble

Emperor Gramis has been assassinated by poison and the mastermind behind the killing, Senate Chairman Gregoroth, has committed suicide — through the lens of the political situation in the capital, the entire matter looks like a farce.

In his final years, Gramis, afflicted by a terminal disease, never resisted the pressure from the Senate more than absolutely necessary. Commanding the legislative Right of Dethronement and lacking in any military support, the Senate had nothing to gain by going out of their way to assassinate this weakened emperor.  Although it is obvious that it was a trap designed to curtail the Senate’s power, tensions run high in Archadia due to the emperor’s death and Rozarria amassing a great force near the border (ostensibly for regular exercises) and there is plenty of support for putting the Senate on a leash, especially in the military. After all, military affairs — starting with Judges — are managed by House Solidor anyway, who are also much desired powerful leaders and far more likely to bring more victories to the Archadian Empire than a group of old men completely preoccupied by ransacking the country’s internal affairs for their personal gain. In other words, all hail the brilliant military mind Vayne Solidor.

And so the assassination makes Vayne, who had just been recalled from Rabanastre to sit and wait for his punishment for his recent failure, a sudden autocrat under extraordinary measures — with the Senate having temporarily relinquished their authority, Vayne is inaugurated to a position that holds more power than the emperor normally does in peacetime. Only Larsa’s sympathizer Judge Drace sharply condemns Vayne for this bold power grab, for which she is pronounced a traitor by the Ministry of Law and immediately executed. Although the groundwork was laid perfectly, the power consolidation still happens extraordinarily quickly.

Having forcibly put the internal turmoil under control, the Archadian Empire now starts leaning towards war, with some individuals taking it too far. Bur-Omisace, a holy city stranded in Jagd that had never had to deal with military incursions before, is raided by Judge Bergan, searching for the Sword of Kings that was once entrusted to Gran Kiltias. The raid turns violent, taking the life of Gran KIltias as well.

It is unclear whether Bergan’s actions were taken with Vayne’s consent or not, but the fact is that this violation of the Light of Kiltia shocked the world.  It is taken as proof that the Archadian Empire has embarked on a military conquest, unconcerned by standard deterrents and principles.
Vayne’s military rule draws its first breaths under a choking scent of blood.








(Summary of Ashe's meeting with the Occuria; page 210)



In the Circle of the Undying — Visions of the Path of the Dynast-King

Beyond the Mist so thick it veils the sight and beguiles the senses, hidden behind the titanic gate unpassable without the power of Belias, lies the Undying City, frozen in time.

The Ancient City of Giruvegan  — a structure from the age so ancient and rent from history that even the Viera have no knowledge of those times. The capital, untouched by decay, lies in the middle of a lake connected by teleportation devices, beckoning the visitors into the depths of abyss beyond the roiling Mist.

Ashe too understands she is not here by chance. If Doctor Cid is to be believed, in Giruvegan one can “attain” the nethicite. Does it mean it is the seat of the gods who once granted nethicite to Raithwall himself?

Her heart is being crushed by anxiety. Lost and confused, suspicious of the obsession with the nethicite she perceives in Cid, she finally arrives to the holy land. At the entrance of the city, she is guided once again by an illusion of Rassler. This whole time, it has been the force to push her forward when she would stop, and her source of belief that she is not wrong in her path. Now, she is no longer so sure. The Rassler she knew for a brief time while he was alive and the phantom Rassler frozen in time used to be one to her, but now Ashe begins to realize they are not quite the same.

If wishes of the living and the dead are different, then what should I choose…?
Still indecisive, Ashe comes face to face with the lords of Giruvegan — the beings who call themselves Gods. Separated from her comrades, she alone is called to their heavenly council, where she learns that there is a source of nethicite. Her nethicite was ultimately nothing more than a shard of the Sun-Cryst, cut off from the great jewel slumbering in a tower surrounded by the seas by the Sword of Kings.

Furious over the invention of manufacted nethicite, the Gods give Ashe, a descendant of the Dynast-King, one command. Take a new divine sword, cut a shard, and destroy the Empire.

The phantom of Rassler appears once more and affirms the God’s words. Erase them all, bring down divine punishment, and dispel your regret. Pulled in by the phantom’s will, Ashe grasps the Treaty-Blade…

Suddenly, the divine audience is at its end. The decision is in her hands now —