Cradle of Tears | Mission 3: Shroud of the Past World - main quests Heroes VI - Shades of Darkness Guide
Last update: 11 May 2016
Objective: defeat 2 Sanctuary armies, reach the Cradle of Tears
Prize: 36000 XP, +8 destiny
Obtaining the town will open the gate (M3, 4) - you can head deeper into the island. As you will have to fight with two enemies at the same time, I'd recommend eliminating the first of them as fast as possible. A swift attack on the southern town (M3, 5) end defeating one of the enemy's champions will eliminate the opponent for good. Now you can focus on the northern part of the island. It's best to pre-emptively attack the Nag town (M3, 6) which will give you more freedom. In the meantime you can also visit the temple (M4, X1) and perform the additional mission "Panther's Shadow". After defeating the second enemy, the main mission "Protect the Mother" will automatically end.
At this point I'd recommend developing all of your towns and collect as many units as possible, as you probably won't be coming back for more units. Obtaining the second Sanctuary town will open the path east (M3, 7). After plundering the area, you have to buy a ship at the local shipyard and sail south. Land on the beach (M3, 8). Now you have to head towards the Cradle of Tears (M3, 10), taking over the enemy Fort on your way (M3, 9). There you will come across the last boss in this mission - Ariana. Head to her town (M3, 10) and defeat the champion.