We start with a flyover view of San d'Oria, showing several scenes of the kingdom. A text prologue plays:
The fortress city of San d'Oria lies to the north on the great continent of Quon. The beating heart of an ancient kingdom, it is home to a thousand legends past.
But now, her reign of glory is but a memory. Heroes raise shining swords to the heavens no more.
The sun has set on the kingdom of knights. An old lion, never to rise again... Thus do some dismiss her now.
Yet young Elvaan knights still venture proudly into the wilds of Vana'diel, determined to triumph over any foe.
On this particular day there comes a new adventurer, ready to make a name for herself in San d'Oria.
The king wishes to bolster his ranks, and Siofra has journeyed far to answer the call.
Should fortune favor her, bards across the land will sing of her exploits for generations to come.
Of course, she has only begun her rise to glory. No one can tell what her future holds.
Never before has she set foot within the Elvaan capital, but she is resolved to let nothing stand in her way.
My character started in the port. As she wanders, taking in the sights, a person bumps into her.
Avandale : I say! Watch where you're going!
Avandale : Oh, a new recruit, are you? That explains it!
Avandale : Well, far be it from me to chastise someone on her first day. Still, as a citizen of San d'Oria, you--
A white-haired, stern looking knight approaches.
Trion : Ah, Avandale! What are you doing there?
Avandale : Prince Trion, I was explaining to this recruit here about what it means to be a proud citizen of San d'Oria!
Trion : A new recruit? Strengthen your sword arm and your stature as a knight. Thus will you best serve the glory of our great kingdom.
A man dressed in mage's robes then speaks.
Pieuje : San d'Oria has more than enough soldiers already, brother. Speaking of which, should you not be training them, instead of bothering new recruits with talk of war?
Trion : You are too bold!
An Elvaan woman dressed in an elaborate red and blue dress turns to Pieuje.
Claidie : Really, Pieuje! Is that any way to speak to your brother?
Pieuje : I've said the truth, nothing more. The ranks of our armies could swell to bursting, and victory would still be far.
Trion : It is your head that is swollen, brother. With enough numbers, we could crush the beastmen! And without having to resort to your misguided tactics!
Pieuje : My tactics, misguided? Oh, that is rich! Tell me of the tactics that lost an entire company in Batallia Downs the other day?
Trion : It's good you're so fond of talking, as I've never seen you wield a sword! Better to shout orders from the rear than reveal your ineptitude in actual combat!
Claidie : Stop your quarreling, both of you!
Claidie : A divided leadership only creates unrest among the people, soldier and civilian alike. Surely you are both aware of this?
Trion : Oh, I suppose. I warn you, Pieuje, talk to me that way again and I won't be so forgiving.
He walks off.
Pieuje : Good old Trion. Threats of violence are his only recourse when a conversation does not go his way. Like a child, he is!
Pieuje exits as well.
Claidie : They are both like children, quick to insult and quicker to take offense! Really...
Claidie : I must apologize for that. But ours is truly a great kingdom, and I expect you to further her glory.
Avandale : Those two are a handful, but they truly are the closest of brothers.
Avandale : Perhaps I could be of service. Is there anything in particular you'd like to know?
You are given several options here. I chose: "Tell me more about adventuring."
Avandale : Ahh, recruits... Don't know which way to hold a sword and you think you're ready for adventures. Well, what would you like to know?
Again, several options:
I chose the first line.
Avandale : Ah, a commendable choice! Come to think of it, there was a lady in front of a house on Pikeman's Way. She may be in need of assistance.
Avandale : If you need any help with directions, ask those around you. Our citizens are friendly, for the most part.
Avandale : Here, take this. It's an adventurer coupon. Give it to Teilsa at the bottom of the staircast in Northern San d'Oria. She'll help you out.
Avandale : By the way, Teilsa is a lady of traditional Elvaan upbringing, so try not to say anything that will offend her sensibilities. Anyway, let me mark her location on your map.
Avandale : Now you can check her position anytime by opening the Map option from the main menu, selecting Markers, and scrolling to the right.
Avandale : To give items to others, select Trade from the main menu. Don't you forget it!
Obtained: Adventurer coupon.