North Side

Master the North Side of Eternal Strands! Learn Viola's bow skills, navigate Cabasa Bridge, and explore Fort Fermata to uncover Count Waltz's secrets.

Alright, so you've just picked up Viola, and she's automatically joined your party. This is your chance to get a feel for her attacks, especially against these Maledictors. Viola uses a bow and arrow, which means she's a ranged attacker. It can take a little practice to get the hang of it, so don't worry if you don't nail it immediately. The key thing to remember is that you need a clear line of sight to hit your target. If anything – an obstacle, or even one of your own party members – is in the way, your arrow won't do a thing. These Maledictors are pretty tough, but taking them all down will give you a nice chunk of EXP.

After the fight, Viola will mention that people who use Mineral Powder are turning into those creepy bird creatures. Something's definitely up, and my money's on Count Waltz being involved. Viola then invites everyone back to her place. Inside her house, you'll all chat about what might be going on with Count Waltz and this Mineral Powder. Viola decides to join your party, which Allegretto doesn't seem too thrilled about.

Before you head out, make sure to open the chest in Viola's house – it's got a Club Clover inside. Once you've saved your game outside, it's time to start heading towards this massive hill. It's actually quite beautiful when you get closer, with two rivers flowing down either side. Keep climbing that hill until you reach Cabasa Bridge.

CABASA BRIDGE

There are no enemies or items to find on Cabasa Bridge itself. Just keep moving forward.

Fort Fermata is waiting for you on the other side of Cabasa Bridge. This place is home to people who've been affected by the Mineral Powder. Don't worry about falling off; there's no way to accidentally tumble into the canyon below, so take your time crossing the bridge to the fort.

About halfway across, another cutscene will kick in, this time featuring Count Waltz. You'll discover that Fugue is working with him, which pretty much confirms they're the bad guys. Once you regain control, head straight into Fort Fermata.

FORT FERMATA

Inside Fort Fermata, you'll face enemies like Lords of Darkness and Maledictors. Keep an eye out for items too, including 100G, a Maple Baton, a Paper Umbrella, Poison Blood, Rapid Fire, Red Velvet, and a Score Piece 2.