Eldigan The Lionheart - Behind the Man

Found at: https://www.pixiv.net/member_illust.php?
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Eldigan The Lionheart (or Eltshan, according to some fan translations) is the Duke of Nodion, a duchy of The Kingdom of Agustria from Fire Emblem: Genealogy of the Holy War. Eldigan is a major player in the War between Agustria and Grannvale, as well as a close friend to Sigurd of Chalphy and Quan of Leonster.

Eldigan grew up a descendant of the Crusader Hezul, one of the crusaders in the original Holy War. As a result, he was blessed to inherit Major Hezul blood and would grow to become the champion to wield the legendary Demon Sword Mystletainn.

But just who is he, and what kind of man is he? Well to start, Eldigan is a loyal man with a heart of gold. He wants nothing but the best for those he loves and those he reigns over, and as a result, he has been shown to put his life on the line for their sakes. This is especially true for his younger sister, Lachesis, who he would do anything to protect - even march to his own death.

Despite their sibling relationship, Eldigan and Lachesis have a complicated relationship. Born to different mothers, the two were raised separately for some time until Lachesis made her debut in the court of Nodion. She took a strong liking to Eldigan, and the pair soon grew rather close to one another. Though we do not know how close the two were to one another, we do know that upon visiting a village in Chapter 2 of Holy War, it is implied their relationship may be more than that of just siblings. As well, a lovers coversation between Eldigan's son Ares and Lachesis' daughter Nanna it is stated that the to had romantic feelings for one another. (Source: http://fireemblem.wikia.com/wiki/Lachesis)

The true driving force behind Eldigan's character is his history with Sigurd of Chalphy and Quan of Leonster - a deep rooted friendship that spans years beyond the beginning of the events of Holy war.

(Left to Right: Quan of Leonster, Sigurd of Chalphy, Eldigan of Nodion. From Fire Emblem Cipher.)

Sigurd, Quan and Eldigan's history together goes back to the days of their youth, when they all trained in a Grannvalean knight academy together. The three were close friends, and as implied in Chapter 1 of Holy War, the three would sit together and share some wine (as recounted by Sigurd himself). The friendship they shared continued on into adulthood, and the trio would meet once again during the Grannvalean campaign into Agustria.

A sketch of Eldigan by Kotaro Yamada

So, let me pose a question to you all: 
Is Eldigan of Nodion as unquestioningly loyal to his King as we all assume? 
The answer to that is no. 

Eldigan of Nodion is not loyal to King Chagall of Agustria, but to Agustria and her people. His loyalty also lies with his honour as a knight, and his duty to serve his motherland. Despite this, Fire Emblem: Heroes paints him as a man who lives only for his liege (when this is not quite the case at all). 

As a descendant of the Crusader Hezul, it is Eldigan's duty by blood to protect King Chagall of Agustria, as his forefathers did for generations before him. He is loyal to his King, yes, but he still shows he has his doubts regarding some of the decisions being made in regards to the war in Agustria. 
In Chapter 2 of Holy War, we see the scene opening with Eldigan making his way to meet with King Chagall in order to end the military buildup (as he has grave concerns over the welfare of the people, who he knows will suffer more than any other). Despite his pleas, however he is locked away for questioning Chagall.

Upon being released, he gets into a spat with Sigurd regarding the Grannvalean invasion of Agustria, which he is clearly not pleased with. In fact, Eldigan tells Sigurd the following: 

“I did, Sigurd. I saved the king. He is all that’s left of Agustrian royalty. I don’t care what he’s done. He’s still my master, and I can’t sit back and let him die.” 

He then goes on to say the following:
"Sigurd, what’s going on here? Your army has gained control of the capital city, and I hear that Grannvale has dispatched officials to each of our castles. You’re treating us just like we were a tributary state. Did Grannvale take occupation of Agustria while I was away!? Your answer better be good, Sigurd!”
(Quotes obtained from: https://serenesforest.net/genealogy-of-the-holy-war/scripts/script-translation/chapter-2-disturbance-in-agustria/)

Eldigan as a Paladin from the 100
songs of heroes set

While some interpret Eldigan's undying loyalty to be towards King Chagall, in the latter quote he seems to be more interested in the preservation of the royal line and the protection of the citizens of Agustria. Because of the Grannvalean invasion, he can't help but feel anger (and possibly even a bit of betrayal), especially with Sigurd at the helm. He serves the King of Agustria, while working to stay true to his ideals as well. In fact, Eldigan hesitates to join the battle during the events of Chapter 3 of Holy War.

Eldigan seems frustrated by his King's actions in the beginning of this chapter, and decides to hold back his Cross Knights until absolutely necessary. He's forced into action too soon, though, as the fall of Madino causes Chagall to question Eldigan's loyalty. 
At this point, Eldigan is left with two choices:

1) He betrays Agustria and joins Sigurd's army

Or

2) He rides into battle and risks either his own death, or Sigurd's.

Most people will gladly say that he should betray Chagall, since the man is clearly off his rocker, and staying by his side is insane. Because of the choice Eldigan makes, many dismiss his character (or worse, compare him to Xander from Fire Emblem: Fates). He chooses to ride into battle, knowing he would be executed for high treason if he betrayed Chagall. Betraying Agustria would mean betraying the people he worked tirelessly to protect from the horrors of war, and turning his back on his ancestors. He could have joined Sigurd, but in doing so he would have lost everything he spent his life working toward.
But if he were to perish in battle, wouldn't he still lose everything? The answer is honestly no - he would still keep his honour, which is something incredibly important for a man like Eldigan. He fights Sigurd in the end so he can prove he's loyal to Agustria, so he can serve as his ancestors did. In riding out to battle, he knows his death is imminent.

"If I'm to die, I'll die fighting."
(Quote obtained from: https://serenesforest.net/genealogy-of-the-holy-war/scripts/script-translation/chapter-3-lion-king-eltshan/)

With his intentions clear, and now unable to turn back, Eldigan faces Sigurd, with the Mystletainn by his side. By this point, he has one set goal - to defeat Sigurd in battle and force the enemy troops to withdraw, therefore preventing the fall of Agustria.

The reason I see it as incorrect for Eldigan to be painted as being "unquestioningly loyal to his lord," is because he does indeed question Chagall on numerous occasions. He never gets frustrated at those who oppose his Lord, but only displays anger because the peace he's worked tirelessly to maintain is broken. Once he's on the battlefield, his mind is made up, and it isn't until his beloved sister Lachesis speaks to him that he's able to be convinced otherwise.

Lachesis: "Eldigan! It's me, your sister!! Please, stop this senseless fighting! You can't fight Sir Sigurd! Is betraying your friends part of the honour of being a knight?! Trust him! Can't you hold your attack off a little bit longer?"

Eldigan: "I don't want to see you cry, but I have no other way out of this! If Chagall is defeated, Agustria will fall as well."

Lachesis: "That's not true! If Chagall withdrew his troops, Sir Sigurd would back out of this. Please talk to King Chagall. He can't ignore the commander of the Cross Knights."

Eldigan: "... Okay... I'll give it one more shot. I'd rather risk my life for my friend than for this crazy war. That is the way of the knight. Lachesis, this sword is for you."

Lachesis: "Isn't this the Earth Sword?! Eldigan, I can't take this from you!"

Eldigan: "Lachesis, keep it as a memento from me... Just in case. Now you be careful!"

 Found at: https://www.zerochan.net/993147

And so the Duke of Nodion rides away, knowing his fate is sealed. He rides back to Agustria castle, praying that his words will hold weight against his King's ambitions. Upon giving Lachesis the Earth Sword, he tells her to keep it as a memento "just in case," but he knows she will never again see him alive.
His death is meant as a sacrifice, and in the end he does realize what's more important. His choice to ride back and challenge King Chagall is a betrayal - not of Agustria, but of his Lord. So while he ultimately comes across as stubborn, he goes out in the most selfless way possible. Eldigan allows himself to die for his friend and his sister, his heart finally resolved to stand up and openly challenge the rule of a (borderline) tyrannical king. Despite knowing that nothing will come of it, he holds onto that tiny shred of hope that someday things might change for the better.

The Power of Jugdralian Politics - Part 1: The Groundwork

Map of Jugdral from Fire Emblem: Genealogy of the Holy War

As we all know, the stories of most Fire Emblem games are based around political drama and intrigue. The tales of the struggling people and nobles alike, and their journeys within the various environments they were nurtured in. These games tell dramatic tales of life, death, love and friendship. Hardship and war, but also the joys that come with just living.

One of the larger focuses of the overarching plots of modern Fire Emblem titles is that of "Friendship," and the ability to triumph any obstacles with it. However, the Fire Emblem titles from the Shouzou Kaga era had a much different thematic focus. The stories were dark and grim, and they showed the struggles of those living within a cynical world.

Today I'll be focusing on the continent of Jugdral and the politics within. 

Jugdral is a world filled with corruption and suffering, both from the people and the various leaders in place. 

Quan, Sigurd, Eldigan - Fire Emblem Cipher Series 6

The Nations of Jugdral

For anyone not familiar with the setting of Fire Emblem: Genealogy of the Holy War & Thracia 776, I'll go over a quick blurb on each nation present in the continent of Jugdral. But first, I'll drop a quick link to where you can find the history of this continent.

The Judral Chronology can be found here: (http://fireemblem.wikia.com/wiki/Jugdral)

The continent of Jugdral is comprised of the following nations: 

• The Kingdom of Grannvale
• The Kingdom of Grannvale is the first nation we're introduced to in Genealogy of the Holy War, and is ultimately the most complex of them all. Grannvale eventually grows and becomes an Empire, and rightfully so. The land mass is rather large, and throughout the first generation of the game of this duology Grannvale successfully conquers and annexes at least THREE kingdoms (even more so around the events of the second generation). This nation is a very powerful political player in the world of Jugdral, especially with all of the noble houses under its command. With houses Chalphy, Jungby, Velthomer, Freege, Dozel and Edda under its command, Grannvale holds claim to six of the twelve crusaders bloodlines. For reasons that will be explained later, Grannvale is currently at war with the Kingdom of Isaach.(Source: http://fireemblem.wikia.com/wiki/Grannvale)
• The Kingdom of Verdane
• A small nation founded by a ruler of non-crusader heritage, the people of Verdane are referred to as "Barbarians" by their Grannvalean neighbours. Despite a peaceful reign, King Batou of Verdane is corrupted by Sandima of the Loptyr Sect. The actions of Verdane and the invasion on Grannvale kick off Sigurd's involvement in Genealogy of the Holy War. (Source: http://fireemblem.wikia.com/wiki/Verdane)
• The Dominion of Agustria
• Founded by the Black Knight Hezul, Agustria is the largest nation in Judgral (in terms of general size), and is comprised of various houses - Nodion, Mackily, Anphony, and Heirhein. Agustria is rife with corrupt nobles who care not for the well being of the people, only for their own selfish gain. As a result, civil strife is ever the present in this nation. One prominent example of between the nobles of Heirhein (Elliot) and Nodion (Eldigan), who are frequently at each others throats for petty reasoning. (Source: http://fireemblem.wikia.com/wiki/Agustria)
• The Kingdom of Silesse
• A northern Kingdom founded by the Crusader Sety, and where the people worship the Wind God Holsety. Silesse is ruled by Queen Rahna, mother of Levin, who takes Sigurd's army under her protection after he's branded a traitor by Grannvale. During the first Generation of Genealogy of the Holy War, Silesse is engaged in a civil war instigated by  the brothers of Queen Rahna's late husband in order to gain control of the nation for themselves. (Source: http://fireemblem.wikia.com/wiki/Silesse)
• The Kingdom of Thracia
• The Kingdom of Thracia is the nation occupying the southern portion of the Thracian peninsula, with the Kingdom of Manster to the north. Thracia was founded by the Crusader Dain, older brother to the Crusader Noba, and is ruled by King Travant. The Kingdom of Thracia is a struggling nation, with rocky soil and hilly terrain, and as a result the people are starved. Because of this, the Thracians are frequently at war with Manster in an effort to take their resources as their own, and often send their military abroad to work as mercenaries. (Source: http://fireemblem.wikia.com/wiki/Thracia)
• The Manster District
• Manster is the location directly north of the Kingdom of Thracia, and contains four Kingdoms: Leonster, Alster, Manster and Conote. (Source: http://fireemblem.wikia.com/wiki/Manster_District)
• Leonster: Home of the descendants of the Crusader Noba. Most of Manster's military strength comes from Leonster's Lance Ritter, otherwise known as the "Wall of Leonster."
• Manster: The closest to Thracia's border. 
• Alster: A nation over run by Grannvale after the Battle of Belhalla. Unfortunately, not much is known about Alster.
• Conote: The last nation that's a part of the Manster District. Conote was the nation who sent aid when Manster was over run by Travant's army, only to betray them and assassinate the King of Leonster.
• The Republic of Miletos
• A mostly unimportant nation, only briefly visited in the events of Genealogy of the Holy War. Miletos was a location where the infamous Child Hunts (orchestrated by the Lopto Sect) were held. In modern day, Miletos is mostly abandoned. (Source: http://fireemblem.wikia.com/wiki/Miletos)
• The Kingdom of Isaach
• A territory located in northern Judral. Isaach is known as the home of swordmasters, and was founded by the Crusader Odo during the original Holy War. Isaach is at the center of it all. The betrayal of Prince Kurth and the assassination of Isaach's King Mananan was the one event that sparked the events of the first generation. (Source: http://fireemblem.wikia.com/wiki/Isaach)

Now that I've laid the groundwork and set the stage, it is time to conclude Part 1 of "The Power of Politics."

Next time, I will talk about the major players of Jugdralian politics and their connections to one another. 

Noriko's Five Favourite Fire Emblem Games

Five Favourites Part 1 -
Noriko's Five Favourite Fire Emblem Games

(Image Found at: http://vignette3.wikia.nocookie.net/cardfight/images/c/c1/FE.png/revision/latest?cb=20150115020555)

I, just like anyone else in this fandom, am a massive fan of the Fire Emblem series. As stated in my previous post (which you can read here: http://norikoemblem.blogspot.ca/2017/02/hello-everyone-and-welcome-to-my-fire.html), I've been around this fandom for quite some time. I've seen the ins and outs of each game, as well as those of the various circles within this ever growing fandom. 

I want to use this blog as a celebration of the series and as a way to go in depth into its history, lore, storytelling and potentially even its gameplay (though that will not be my focus). However, in order to effectively do so, I've decided it would be best for me to tell you which titles I cherish the most in the series as a whole. So, without further ado, I present to you the first part of what I hope to be a long running mini-feature, titled "Noriko's Five Favourites."

1. Fire Emblem - Gaiden

(Image Found at: https://i.ytimg.com/vi/I_RQarhRWiQ/maxresdefault.jpg)

Fire Emblem - Gaiden is a side story of Fire Emblem - Shadow Dragon and the Sword of Light for the Famicom. It takes place on the continent of Valentia, in the same world as the original game in the series. The game follows the story of Alm and Celica, childhood friends separated due to unfortunate circumstances. 

This game has unique storytelling, as you get to experience the tales of both Lords simultaneously (due to the world map system, which returned for Fire Emblem - The Sacred Stones and Fire Emblem - Awakening), The two stories unfold very differently from one another, as Alm seeks revenge on the Rigelian Empire, while Celica wishes for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing war. Despite these motivations, the two have a similar end goal in mind, which ultimately brings the two together and allows them to unite their war torn land. 

2. Fire Emblem - Genealogy of the Holy Horse.

(Image Found at: http://media1.nintendowire.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Banner-FireEmblemGenealogy.jpg) 

Or, as people who are more correct might say, "Genealogy of the Holy War."
This game is the tale of a man who looks for his own path, even while being betrayed by fate. The tale of a man named Sigurd, whose story ends on a rather grim note. However, that's a little far into spoiler territory, so I'd rather not conquer that castle. That can wait a few turns, don't you think?

Anyways, as back on track. The game follows the story of a man named Sigurd, heir of House Chalphy of the Grannvale Empire. One day, close friend and a lady of the neighboring House Jungby is kidnapped by the unruly Princes of the nearby "barbarian nation" of Verdane. The story of Genealogy of the Holy War is a tale of political intrigue, romance and tragedy. And by god is this story ever a bloody one. Genealogy of the Holy War infamously deconstructs the typical Fire Emblem narrative over the course of its first six chapters, then proceeds to reconstruct it over the latter six, where you control the Sigurd's son Seliph and take on the Big Bad of this story.

The plot of this game is one of its strongest points, which is why I didn't go into much detail, since I'm hoping that (if you haven't already), you'll find it in yourself to experience this epic for yourself.

3. Fire Emblem - Thracia 776

(Image Found at: http://serenesforest.net/wp-content/gallery/thracia-776/illustrated-works/art/Eachonesdesires.jpg)

Fire Emblem - Thracia 776 takes place in the same universe as Fire Emblem - Genealogy of the Holy War. The game is midquel (meaning it takes place during the events of the latter mentioned title). The story follows Prince Leif of Leonster and takes place between chapters 6 and 7 of Genealogy of the Holy War.

The story places you into the shoes of the young Prince of Leonster in his pursuit to reclaim his homeland and follow the footsteps of his long deceased father, however, that doesn't come without its challenges. At the start of the game, Leif is forced out of hiding after his whereabouts are discovered by Thracian soldiers. Being strong headed as he is, Leif finally decides that he's tired of hiding and that he wants to fight, and by god does he ever. The boy Prince starts with nothing but a few ill equipped comrades and together, they reclaim the village of Fiana by force.

From then on, Leif's adventures take him across the Thracian Peninsula, escaping from and fighting against the forces of the Thracian Empire. The gameplay and story mesh together perfectly, as Leif's army starts with nothing, forcing them to build up their way up (with use of the AMAZING capture system) with little to no assistance, until their forces are enough to stand up to the massive armies that threaten them.

4. Fire Emblem (Or "Fire Emblem - The Blazing Sword)

(Image Found at: https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/4e/1b/a8/4e1ba8bc0bc9853741bcf0cdc8a638b4.jpg)

Fire Emblem is the prequel to Fire Emblem - The Sealed Sword (You know, the game with Roy in it). It's a tale divided into three, one for each Lord (Eliwood, Hector, and Lyndis). One serving as a tutorial, while the other two acting as differing perspectives on the overarching plot of the game. 

It is also worth mentioning that Fire Emblem was the first entry in the series where the idea of an Avatar was present. 

In the first ten chapters we follow the Lady Lyn, the sole survivor of the Lorca tribe of Sacae, as she uncovers her heritage and goes on a quest to meet her Grandfather after she learns that she is related to the Marquess of Caelin. Unfortunately for her, her Great Uncle Lord Lundgren tries to have her killed, as he assumes she wishes to take the throne that he wants for himself. Eventually Lyn triumphs, meets her Grandfather, and takes her "rightful" place in Castle Caelin. 

A year passes between this point and the plot of the main story, where things pick up with Lord Eliwood of Pherae. The beginning of this tale sees Eliwood embarking from home with the desire to locate the whereabouts of his long lost Father, Marquess of Pherae. Along his journey he receives the aid of his close childhood friend, Hector of Ostia, and we even meet up with Lyn and her subordinates again. The three make their way across Elibe, eventually making their way to the Dread Isle, where they uncover a plot that will forever change the lives of all three young Lords. 

5. Fire Emblem - The Sacred Stones 

(Image fount at: http://mmoexaminer.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Fire-Emblem-Sacred-Stones.jpg)

Fire Emblem - The Sacred Stones, AKA the spiritual successor to Fire Emblem Gaiden. This is the game that saw the return of two Lords fighting separate battles on opposite ends of the world. 

Our story opens with the beginning of the end. The Kingdom of Renais is suddenly invaded, and Princess Eirika is forced to flee from her home with her trusty knight Seth, in hopes that they can seek asylum in the neighbouring Kingdom of Frelia. After she is given the supplies she needs, Eirika heads south to find her twin brother, Ephraim, only to hear rumours of his capture in Fort Renvall. And so, Eirika makes it her mission to save him. Once the two are reunited, they make their way back to Frelia to recover and plan where to go next. 

From there, you either follow Eirika on her journey to the Theocracy of Rausten, or Ephraim on his assault on the Kingdom of Grado. 

But why did they leave such an impact?

(Image Found at: https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/0b/ec/7e/0bec7ef9be28138f2004142587633bbd.jpg)

A good question indeed, and one I won't leave unanswered. Each of the games listed above have that special something that makes my heart ache while playing them. And yes, even Gaiden. I find myself drawn to the characters, to the worlds of these games. The tragedies that play out in each game (and yes, they're ripe with heartache. Except maybe Gaiden. That one is a bit lacking in the sad department. While Gaiden DOES have its sad moments in the lore, it really isn't elaborated on in game. Let's hope Echoes fixes this, yeah?).

As I was saying, these games are dark and gloomy, and the bloodshed that takes place never fails to leave my heart heavy. That being said, most of these games have unique game play elements that directly correlate to whats going on in the story. For example, Genealogy has its massive, nation spanning maps that make you feel like you're a part of an epic war. Thracia has the capture mechanic, which adds that feeling of desperation since you're more or less required to abuse it to build up your stash of equipment so that way you aren't left defenseless against the massive Thracian armies. Even outside the stories of these games, you always feel like you're working towards some enormous goal. 

These are the games in the series that keep me coming back for more. These five titles are the ones that leave a hunger in my heart, and whenever I need my Fire Emblem fix, these are the titles that never fail to leave me satisfied. 

Introduction & About Me~

Hello everyone and welcome to my Fire Emblem blog.

I've created this blog as a place for me to speak my heart about something I'm passionate about. As an introduction to this Blog, I'll provide an introduction to myself. And without further ado, let us as the following question:

Who am I? 

You can just call me Noriko. I'm a young lady from Canada with a deep passion for Fire Emblem. But we know most of those details already, so allow me to elaborate for you. Eleven years ago I was exposed to the Fire Emblem series for the very first time.
My older cousin, let's call him "John," showed me Fire Emblem Gaiden for the Famicom (NES). Despite the archaic design of the game, I was curious. So, after asking what it was called, he threw a controller in my hand and assisted me in playing through the prologue of Fire Emblem Genealogy of the Holy War (SNES). I was so captivated by the game play that I had to see more. So, he continued on telling me about the games and how much fun they were. Which, eventually, led me to be exposed to Fire Emblem Thracia 776 (Also for the SNES). He and I would sit down and play these Fire Emblem titles until he eventually had to move back home across the country.

Of course, knowing little old eleven year old me, I nearly forgot about Fire Emblem by the time he saw me again. On my twelfth birthday, he flew across the country just to deliver a birthday present to me. While we were sitting around the table eating nachos that night, he gave me a small package and encouraged me to open it. And so I did, only to find copies of Fire Emblem and Fire Emblem The Sacred Stones (both GBA titles).

And so that's my introduction to the Fire Emblem series.