It was an obvious trap. Both Wayne and Francesca could see that the Nilfgaardian Empire's intentions were far from genuine. They had no true interest in allying with the elves of Dol Blathanna. Instead, Nilfgaard sought to exploit the precarious position of non-human races in the North, inciting rebellion and using them as pawns in their broader strategy.
Regardless of whether Nilfgaard ultimately won or lost, the Northern Kingdoms would undoubtedly suffer tremendous losses. The resulting animosity toward non-human races would further destabilize the region, leaving the elves and other inhuman groups even more isolated and persecuted.
As for whether Nilfgaard would honor its promises to the elves, the decision would ultimately rest in the hands of the empire, making the outcome uncertain at best.
"I didn't agree to Nilfgaard's envoy," Francesca said, her voice tinged with frustration. "It's an obvious trap, and anyone can see it."
She rested her chin in her hand, her face pale and tired. It was clear she had been agonizing over the situation for some time. "But the problem now is that Nilfgaard has stationed nearly 40,000 troops in Aedirn. While they haven't yet made any overt military moves against Dol Blathanna, I fear they won't hesitate to use force if we reject their demands outright."
Wayne nodded, his expression calm but thoughtful. He knew the Nilfgaardian Empire's true nature. Despite its claims of civilization and advancement, its actions over decades—pillaging, enslaving, and destroying—painted it as little more than a conqueror. History was simply kinder to victors.
If the elves placed their faith in Nilfgaard's supposed goodwill, it would be akin to prey trusting a predator to spare its life. It was naive and dangerous.
"So what do you plan to do?" Wayne asked. He rarely interfered in Francesca's leadership over her people, and he intended to respect her decision in this matter as well.
The elven sorceress sighed deeply. "I've been thinking about it for days, Wayne," she admitted. Her voice was tinged with weariness. "If this had happened years ago, I might have led my people into battle, fighting to the last breath to protect our last sanctuary. Or, perhaps, I would have bowed to Nilfgaard's demands, sacrificing some of my people to preserve what little hope remained for our race."
She paused, her gaze distant. "But I've come to understand something. Lost territory can be reclaimed. Lost wealth can be regained. But for us, as elves, the loss of life—given our declining numbers—is irreparable."
"So, I've decided to evacuate Dol Blathanna temporarily. I'll lead my people to a more remote and desolate place, waiting until the situation stabilizes before making further plans."
Wayne's brows lifted in surprise. This decision was entirely unlike Francesca's actions in the original timeline. In that version of events, during the First Nilfgaardian War, Francesca had quickly allied with Nilfgaard. She established the elven kingdom of Dol Blathanna under the empire's protection and even sent elven officers to join Nilfgaard's Fourth Cavalry Legion, known as the Vrihedd Brigade, to fight against the North.
But her alliance with Nilfgaard had ultimately brought tragedy. After the war, non-human races were systematically persecuted by the Northern Kingdoms, and the remaining members of the Verihed Brigade became the backbone of the infamous Scoia'tael, leading a violent resistance against human oppression.
Wayne reached out and gently took Francesca's hand, surprising her. She looked up at him, her clear eyes questioning his sudden gesture. He smiled softly and said, "Don't worry, Enid."
"There are hundreds of thousands of elves in Dol Blathanna. Attempting such a large-scale migration would be incredibly difficult and would undoubtedly lead to significant losses."
He leaned forward slightly, his voice steady and resolute. "When you return, tell Nilfgaard's envoy this: Dol Blathanna belongs to the elves. It does not require recognition from Aedirn, Nilfgaard, or any other kingdom. The Valley of Flowers is ours by right."
Francesca's expression darkened, her eyes narrowing. "Wayne, that's not a wise decision," she said, her tone stern. "Such a declaration will only lead to war."
"If we face Nilfgaard's army head-on, we elves are no match for them," Francesca said firmly. "I can't lead my people to a dead end."
The elven sorceress's eyes were resolute. Francesca had always been cautious when it came to decisions affecting the survival and prosperity of her people.
Wayne nodded knowingly, a faint smile playing at his lips as he waved his fingers dismissively. "Don't worry, Enid. The elves won't need to engage in direct battle."
"The North is already in chaos, and with the Civil War underway, this chaos will likely last for decades. Whether it's the elves or the Witcher Order, continuously retreating or giving in will only embolden others to see us as weak, ripe for exploitation."
"While I've always believed that keeping a low profile is crucial for growth, there comes a time when strength must be shown. If Nilfgaard dares to threaten Dol Blathanna, I'll ensure they regret it."
Wayne's voice turned sharper, more decisive. "We need the North and Nilfgaard to understand that our strength is not to be trifled with. Only then can we secure the initiative in this chaotic war and avoid being dragged into its vortex."
Francesca's expression softened as Wayne's words sank in. The promise of support from the Witcher Order clearly alleviated much of her burden. Over the past few years, she had watched the Order grow in strength and influence, becoming a force that many underestimated. She couldn't deny that she had hoped Wayne would lend his aid when she approached him about Nilfgaard.
Initially, she only sought assistance during the elves' potential evacuation. Wayne's willingness to directly oppose Nilfgaard took her by surprise.
A private organization challenging an empire capable of easily defeating Aedirn seemed ludicrous to anyone else. Yet, Francesca found herself feeling an inexplicable sense of hope. While she didn't fully grasp the Order's capabilities, her trust in Wayne reassured her that they could hold their own, even against Nilfgaard's tens of thousands of troops.
After a moment of contemplation, Francesca nodded. "You make a valid point, Wayne," she conceded. "Revealing our strength at the right moment might indeed deter future conflicts."
"If you're confident that you can defeat Nilfgaard's army, I'm willing to trust you. However, this is no small matter. I need to know your plans in detail, and I must consult with Ada, the Sage of the Elves, before making a final decision."
"This concerns the safety of hundreds of thousands of my people. I have to proceed with the utmost caution."