Heroica RPG - Quest #104: Ace Assassin: Dual Dragoons

[KotZ]

"I'm sure we can catch their attentions in some way or another, hopefully with as little damage as possible. As long as the dragons are at ease I should be able to talk to the riders." Kiray flashed a smile at Vipera.

[samurai-turtle]

"Ah, like Mr. Harkenshire. Very well, and I'm so sorry. As I was saying, Mr. Germ, if we could make a brief detour to my home before we leave the city, I have a gem I would be more than happy to lend to Mr. Siercon or Mr. Warlen--if, of course, they wish it."

"Killing one of them would probably do the trick."

I am sure the gem would help.

That seem like a super drastic measure. I am sure hurting them really bad would also get their attention.

Diana raises her eyebrow.

"You mean it's not just a title? Veterans' standards are lower than I thought..."

Ella says nothing, but merely smiles at Quarion.

When I first hear it I thought it sound menacing. I am not even sure they knew I was a demon.

Then noticing the look, I wondering does she like him or something.

Edited July 24, 2014 by samuraiturtle

[Actaeon]

Actaeon makes his decision after hearing what all the other heroes (excluding the ever silent Daeth) had to say,

"We will stop by the Rito settlement. As much as I would like to get to the dragoons quickly, I'd rather no be incinerated. We need some better weapons. Also, I feel that me and my party could use some rest. If that will take too long, something to bring us to full health and ether will do. I get the feeling we'll need our strength for the road."

Some nice weapons will certainly be good, Actaeon thinks. I just hope we can get to the dragoons before this quest is considered a bitter failure.

OoC: should be back home Friday afternoon. Sorry for the unbolded decisions. There is nothing I can do about it :(

Suddenly aware of the other half of the conversation, Actaeon adds his thoughts to the mix,

"We have to get their attention, I agree. I think that killing one would do the job, but I think that maybe we could instead find someone from their past and, how do I say this, ransom them? It could be a better way to get their attention than killing one."

[The Chosen Minifigure]

Ooc: I'm back!

"Sirecon can use the gem. It's only fair, seeing as I got the gem from the last fight."

Edited July 25, 2014 by The Chosen Minifigure

[Flipz]

QM Note: Sorry for the slow updates, I'll go ahead and split today's update in half so you have something at least. Also fixed Siercon's inventory--I forgot to actually put the Trial Brew in.

"We have to get their attention, I agree. I think that killing one would do the job, but I think that maybe we could instead find someone from their past and, how do I say this, ransom them? It could be a better way to get their attention than killing one."

"If you've got a way of sailing to Duplovia, finding the guy's family, sailing back, and getting to Domus by tomorrow morning, I'm all ears, otherwise I think we're going to need something a bit more immediate."

That seem like a super drastic measure. I am sure hurting them really bad would also get their attention.

"I'm an Assassin. I kill things. It's what I do."

I am sure the gem would help.

Ooc: I'm back!

"Sirecon can use the gem. It's only fair, seeing as I got the gem from the last fight."

"Of course, Mr. Warlen. I am prepared to take you to my home whenever you are ready."

Will the party say anything else to the people in the Palace before they depart?

[KotZ]

"Thank you, but I suggest we move on. We have serious matters to deal with now,"

[Actaeon]

Actaeon realizes that the conversation is over. Now all his party needs is some rest or something to substitute rest.

[samurai-turtle]

Actaeon realizes that the conversation is over. Now all his party needs is some rest or something to substitute rest.

Maybe, getting some thing to eat would help.

OoC: I might not be online until Monday.

[Flipz]

The party says their good-byes to the Emperor, the Dragonlord, and the others in the library, and Mallelio leads the group outside, and then a short ways south to his home.

"I wish I could offer you more hospitality, but I am afraid my duties to the Empire prevent me from attending much to my home. I apologize for the mess."

The Heroes step inside the residence. Despite Mallelio's words, his home was not nearly as disorderly as he had made it seem. Though dark, the place is surprisingly tidy, if a bit dusty and bare. They spot a potted plant or two clinging to life in spite of the dryness and heat--Mallelio hastens to water them upon seeing their condition, before leading the party onward.

Upstairs, the party finds a different story: though crowded with books and artifacts, everything seemed to be in its proper place, from an antique ship's wheel to a small, glowing blue pedestal tucked in a corner. Mallelio rummages through a drawer before finding what he was looking for: a Topaz wrapped in a fine parchment.

"Here we are. Mr. Siercon, I believe you were the one who needed this most. I hope you find it helpful."

Upon unwrapping the Topaz, Siercon finds that the parchment was actually a Scroll of Sealing, wrinkled and aged but still useable. Mallelio smiles in recognition.

"Ahh, that's right. I remember that. I purchased it from a green-skinned travelling merchant not long after I returned from Eubric. It reminded me of a friend. Please feel free to borrow it as well if you wish."

Actaeon realizes that the conversation is over. Now all his party needs is some rest or something to substitute rest.

Maybe, getting some thing to eat would help.

OoC: I might not be online until Monday.

"I regret I must admit that I do not keep my pantry well-stocked enough for a proper meal, but I would be pleased to tend to your wounds before we set out." Mallelio heals the party at the cost of 6 Ether.

The Party:

Actaeon Artus (Actaeon)

*Party Leader*

21 year old male human

Level 2 Ranger

Power:

5

Health:

7/7

Gold:

30

Equipment:

Bow (WP:3)

Inventory:

Smoke Bomb, Potion, Dragon Scale, Remedy, Bedroll, Scroll of

Frailty

Siercon (Siercon and Coral)

Male, Age and species unknown

Level 7 Mage

Power:

15

(7 levels + 8 WP)

Defense:

1

(Robe of the Magi)

Health:

11/11

(5 base + 5 lvl)

Ether:

8/11

(5 base + 5 lvl)

Gold:

76

Equipment:

Lullaby Wand (WP:8, deals

sleep

-effect; wand), Robe of the Magi (SP:1),

Inventory:

*Sylvania's Cowl (Artifact, Head Wear, Animal Talk),

*Diamond (

Light

), Scroll of

Sleep

, Bedroll, Topaz (

Lightning

) (borrowed from Mallelio), Scroll of

Sealing

(borrowed from Mallelio)

*Potion x2, Remedy, Dragon Scale, Trial Brew (Halves the drinkers max HP, max ether, and max SP for the duration of one battle. These effects are irremediable. Surviving a battle without getting knocked out in this state nets you double EXP. Being revived after being knocked-out removes these effects.)

The Demon Germ (Samurai Turtle)

??? years old ; Half Demon; Male

Level 2 Rogue

Power:

5

Defense:

0

Health:

8/8

Ether:

0

Gold

28

Equipment:

Wrench (WP:3, decreases the target’s level by 1; throwing weapon)

Inventory:

Copper Dagger (WP:3; dagger), Venom, Potion x2, Remedy, Dragon Scale, Bedroll

Warlen Melimane

and

Quarion

the floating skull

(The Chosen Minifigure)

17 Year old Male Half-Elf

Level 2 Mage

Power:

5 (10 for spells)

Power Bonus:

+5 for spells

Health:

6/6

Ether:

2/6

Gold:

20

Equipment:

Gold-Coated bat staff (Wp:3), Spellbound Gloves (Power +5 to spells)

(Loaned by Siercon)

Inventory:

Potion x2, Amethyst (

Darkness

), Sapphire (

Wind

), bedroll

Yuji Daeth (Daeth)

34 year old male Croaken (Frog based race)

Level 2 cleric

Power:

5

Defense:

0

Health:

10/10

Ether:

2/6

Gold:

15

Equipment:

Slightly Sharpened Croaken Staff (WP:3; staff)

Inventory:

Remedy, Potion x2

Kiray Nastayo (KingoftheZempk),

A Hero Who Is Actually Worth Something

*Immune to

Fire

*

24 year old female human

Level 5 Knight

Power:

8

Defense:

3

Health:

14/14

Gold:

5

Equipment:

Sword of the Kin (WP:3), Scutum Shield (SP:2; shield), Flameproof Armor (SP:1, immune to

Fire

; bodywear, suitable for anyone)

Inventory:

Potion, Banana (Restores full health when eaten), Chaotic Bomb (Causes 100 elemental damage to all opponents), Phoenix Essence, Bedroll

Diana N. Justus

(NPC, Uncontrollable/takes suggestions)

17 years old female human Assassin

Level 2

Power:

5

Power Bonus:

+0

Defense:

0

Health:

13/13

Gold:

259

Equipment:

Ace Assassin's Crossbow (WP:3, crossbow), Belt of the Ace Assassin (Successful Assasination rolls on enemies immune to sudden death deal an extra Aim instead. Bodywear, Suitable for Assassins only.)

Inventory:

Potion x5, Mead x3, Smelling Salts x3, Nostrum x3, Remedy, Sticky Gloves (Increases the amount of gold stolen by 50% (rounded up), suitable for rogues and beast warriors)

Mallelio

(NPC, Uncontrollable/takes suggestions)

Level 17 1/2 Sage

Power: 18

Health: 32/32

Ether: 18/24

Gold: 15

Equipped: Wooden Staff (WP: 1, staff),

Inventory: Remedy, Potion x2

Heading outside, the party finds three unfamiliar figures waiting for them. One of them, a U'kin, wears the armor of the Dastanian knights; he wrings his hands nervously.

"I am sorry Master Mallelio I offer my apologies, I told them you were occupied but they insisted on coming here even though I informed them of your busyness."

"It is all right, U'Voros, do not blame yourself."

"Cleric of the Emperor, the Pongcanis and the Tethusial have come to an agreement: we demand to know why the efforts to tear down the section of Emperor Brunt's wall bordering the Tethusial district have been suspended!" The Pongcanis' voice comes out with a harsh growl beneath it, though to Kiray something sounds a bit off somehow.

"Yes, we already suffer enough in this wretched land without the Emperors keeping us cordoned off from the rest of the people. Now, when you were so close to making things better for my people, you stop without warning and leave us in the dark. We must know why!" The Tethusial's voice sounds almost watery and is understandable by humans, though she seems unable to clearly pronounce the harder sounds of 't's and 'd's.

"How dare you continue to perpetuate this generations-long injustice! It is a travesty!" Again Kiray gets the sense that the Pog might not be entirely sincere.

"Mr. Tarban, Ms. Nemor, I assure you, your concerns will be addressed as soon as Emperor Alandri returns from his conference with the Lion Knights; however, now is not an opportune time to--"

"Nonsense!" Tarban barks. "Alandri doesn't give a damn about our peoples, he still blames us for the rebels' actions in the war!"

"I do not believe that accusation is simply not the truth. The Empire serves all its citizens are served by the Empire. I am sure Emperor Alandri does his best I am certain."

"Says the guy whose people got the whole 'sudden social boost' after the war. You may have forgotten, but some of us still face injustice, just like the U'kin did until two years ago."

"Gentlemen, lady, I sympathize, truly, but there is nothing I can do. I serve Emperor Septrine, and the Tethusial Quarter falls under Emperor Alandri's purview."

"Yes, but the wall is under Emperor Septrine's. There is nothing to stop his workers from taking over the project besides excuses and prejudice!"

Mallelio seems exasperated. What, if anything, will the Heroes do?

[The Chosen Minifigure]

Warlen walks over to Acaeton and whispers in his ear:

"I'm all for helping, but remember we have limited time."

[Siercon and Coral]

Siercon shakes Dragonlord's hand "Thank you sir for everything you've done for us. I will do my best to gain favor among the house of Shadeaux and with our stray dragoons. One day soon I hope to become a brother."

"Here we are. Mr. Siercon, I believe you were the one who needed this most. I hope you find it helpful."

Upon unwrapping the Topaz, Siercon finds that the parchment was actually a Scroll of Sealing, wrinkled and aged but still useable. Mallelio smiles in recognition.

"Thank you greatly." Siercon says with sincerity "This will likely be of great use. The scroll will probably be of even greater use. We can also see if we can find you a better staff on our way."

-----------------

Siercon hears the conversation out...

"How can we know Can you not tear it down yourself? Not only will the job get done faster, but it will strengthen morale, break the "

Septrine, and the Tethusial Quarter falls under Emperor Alandri's

"The duty of tearing down the wall was agreed to be under Emperor Alandri, even though the wall is property of Emperor Septrine's. Arbitrarily switching deconstruction forces without consulting with Alandri will simply lead to anger and stonewalling. It is an insult to his choice for a temporary delay, and to the work he has been conducting graciously thus far." Siercon continued. "If you truly want the wall to be removed as quick as possible; you should wait until Alandri returns, and then aid him and his men in the deconstruction yourselves. This will not only promote an equal rights status, but heighten morale as you physically deconstruct a source you consider demeening. When this occurs, Septrine will have an easy choice to aid as well, given it would have become public cultural statement on their own wall.

Siercon hoped they undersood, and finished off with a simpler ultimatum. "If we take action without talking to Alandri, you pit us and yourselves against him. Find out from him why he has delayed, for we don't know ourselves. There is likely a very good reason. Regardless, don't lose the opportunity to accomplish this task 3 times faster because you cannot be patient, and prove to all that you can play politics well.

Siercon ended. You have the opportunity to earn more than just a slowly deconstructed wall. Allies, their respect, power, peace, a their diligence."

Edited July 27, 2014 by Siercon and Coral

[KotZ]

Kiray watched Mr. Tarban closely, listening to the words. Were they threats, she thought. Something from him set alarm bells off in her head.

"Mr. Tarban, you are not to raise your voice to Mallelio, a man who seemingly is of a higher rank than you," her voice became icy, "do you understand me? All three of you empty your pockets now and put any weapons you may have on the ground and push them away from you. Honestly, I'm worried one of you may be sent here as a distraction or is trying to cause a bigger problem than the one you have now. For now, the wall is of no concern to you until I am sure you are no threat to Mallelio or the Emperor or even your precious wall."

[Actaeon]

Actaeon listens as Siecron speaks. That was well handled, he thinks, admiring his tact.

Suddenly the situation takes a sudden turn when Kiray demands that they surrender the weapons and empty their pockets. Actaeon stares at her, very, very confused. What just happened? I thought Siecron had that handled?

Trusting the knight, Actaeon keeps his silence and looks back at the three who had approached them. I must have missed something. Dangit. I must have. Things like this can't happen, Actaeon!

[Flipz]

Siercon shakes Dragonlord's hand "Thank you sir for everything you've done for us. I will do my best to gain favor among the house of Shadeaux and with our stray dragoons. One day soon I hope to become a brother."

"Thank you greatly." Siercon says with sincerity "This will likely be of great use. The scroll will probably be of even greater use. We can also see if we can find you a better staff on our way."

-----------------

Siercon hears the conversation out...

"How can we know Can you not tear it down yourself? Not only will the job get done faster, but it will strengthen morale, break the "

Septrine, and the Tethusial Quarter falls under Emperor Alandri's

"The duty of tearing down the wall was agreed to be under Emperor Alandri, even though the wall is property of Emperor Septrine's. Arbitrarily switching deconstruction forces without consulting with Alandri will simply lead to anger and stonewalling. It is an insult to his choice for a temporary delay, and to the work he has been conducting graciously thus far." Siercon continued. "If you truly want the wall to be removed as quick as possible; you should wait until Alandri returns, and then aid him and his men in the deconstruction yourselves. This will not only promote an equal rights status, but heighten morale as you physically deconstruct a source you consider demeening. When this occurs, Septrine will have an easy choice to aid as well, given it would have become public cultural statement on their own wall.

Siercon hoped they undersood, and finished off with a simpler ultimatum. "If we take action without talking to Alandri, you pit us and yourselves against him. Find out from him why he has delayed, for we don't know ourselves. There is likely a very good reason. Regardless, don't lose the opportunity to accomplish this task 3 times faster because you cannot be patient, and prove to all that you can play politics well.

Siercon ended. You have the opportunity to earn more than just a slowly deconstructed wall. Allies, their respect, power, peace, a their diligence."

"The work on the wall has been delayed in case we need that work force to rebuild areas of Dastan destryoed by the dragon-riders," Mallelio whispers to the party. "It is our mission that delays the deconstruction."

"What do you think we have been doing? We may have jobs, but many of Alandri's people refuse to work alongside us, and many of the ones that do only do so because he pays them."

"It is unfortunate, but this is true, unfortunately. My people, the U'kin, who are my people, have become more accepted since the war we have been accepted. The people have not truly forgiven the species who took more part in the rebellion, the Tethusial and the Pongcanae, who have not yet been forgiven for the rebellion."

"They will not listen to us. That is why Cleric Mallelio must intercede for us."

"I am sorry, but we simply have no time--"

"Time?! Countless generations my people have suffered, a few short minutes is nothing compared to that!"

"Emperor Septrine is in private council discussing matters of state. He will not be free for several hours, and the Heroes and I must--"

"Heroes?!"

Apparently, the news of the Heroes and their mission was not public knowledge.

Kiray watched Mr. Tarban closely, listening to the words. Were they threats, she thought. Something from him set alarm bells off in her head.

"Mr. Tarban, you are not to raise your voice to Mallelio, a man who seemingly is of a higher rank than you," her voice became icy, "do you understand me? All three of you empty your pockets now and put any weapons you may have on the ground and push them away from you. Honestly, I'm worried one of you may be sent here as a distraction or is trying to cause a bigger problem than the one you have now. For now, the wall is of no concern to you until I am sure you are no threat to Mallelio or the Emperor or even your precious wall."

U'Voros grips his spear more tightly.

"I cannot relinquish my weapon while I am on duty I must not disarm myself."

"It is all right, U'Voros. Miss Nastayo, if you please, U'Voros is one of our troops. He has worked with Heroes before--he was sent to guard Princess Ella when she went to study with the Oracle in Eubric. He is on our side."

Tarban laughs bestially.

"Uf uf uf. You think I would listen to you, little Hero? Even if I carried a weapon, I would not need it to tear you limb from limb."

"There is a saying in Dastan: it is unwise to upset a Pongcanis."

Tarban laughs again. Nemor points accusingly at Kiray, her watery eyes narrowed.

"And really, do you expect me to listen to you? When one of your kind was responsible for what happened to my brother?"

Mallelio looks downward in shame.

"I will admit, trusting that one Hero was likely a mistake. But we have much good to thank them for as well! Without them, the U'kin would not be rising in number amongst the Dragon Knights, we would not have made friends of the Dragons and the Rito, and the very wall you speak of would still stand tall were it not for their aid. Even the Hero you spoke of helped to save Princess Ella from the assassins, and had the Heroes not supported Emperor Phyllius' rise to the throne, he could not have named U'Daras as his successor."

"Without them," Tarban growls, "one of my kind might sit on the throne."

"Your kind?"

"Our kind," Tarban hastily amends, but Kiray's diplomatic training had already told her everything she needed to know.

[KotZ]

"I'm sorry, U'Voros, didn't mean to offend you." Kiray smiled apologetically to the soldier. She then directed her gaze on the other two, "Forgive my ignorance, I am not an expert on Dastan's customs. There's also a reason why our arrival was not announced, because I assume it would have led to bigger problems than we have now."

The knight then looked directly at Tarban and said, "Tarban, a word in private? Don't worry, I'm not to hurt you, I just want to talk."

[Actaeon]

Actaeon was starting to understand. He smiled at the Freudian Slip. Got yourself in a hole there, buddy. He kept his silence still, though. Kiray can handle it. Besides, I don't do politics.

[Flipz]

"I'm sorry, U'Voros, didn't mean to offend you." Kiray smiled apologetically to the soldier. She then directed her gaze on the other two, "Forgive my ignorance, I am not an expert on Dastan's customs. There's also a reason why our arrival was not announced, because I assume it would have led to bigger problems than we have now."

The knight then looked directly at Tarban and said, "Tarban, a word in private? Don't worry, I'm not to hurt you, I just want to talk."

"Bigger problems? Are...are we in danger?!"

"If Dastan is in danger it is my duty to defend Dastan if she is endangered!"

"Please, be calm, both of you. I encourage you to trust in the Emperors to seek out your best interests, as they always have."

"As they always have for humans, you mean." In spite of her words, Nemor appears to have been pacified.

Tarban laughs in Kiray's face.

"Wroash uf uf... It is you should be afraid of me, little Knight. But I will speak with you if you insist."

"I will remain with you, Miss Knight, I will follow. I do not wish to see you come to harm would be undesirable."

Kiray and U'Voros walk a short distance away to speak with Tarban. Nemor seems appeased for now, though it appears he would be willing to speak more if anyone wished it.

[samurai-turtle]

Upstairs, the party finds a different story: though crowded with books and artifacts, everything seemed to be in its proper place, from an antique ship's wheel to a small, glowing blue pedestal tucked in a corner. Mallelio rummages through a drawer before finding what he was looking for: a Topaz wrapped in a fine parchment.

Mallelio seems exasperated. What, if anything, will the Heroes do?

Looking through the books. Then asking Mallelio "I heard some people use books as throwing weapons, if I find any do you mind if I borrow them."

Asking about the wall. Is't their a big enough hole to go through?

Edited July 28, 2014 by samuraiturtle

[KotZ]

Kiray said to Nemor, "I'll be right with you, just wait there."

Then she addressed Tarban, her voice just barely a whisper, "I understand what you were saying back there, that little slip up. Like I said, Dastan is foreign to me, but from what I can tell you did something and weren't compensated enough, or you feel you have the rights to something you may not have. I'm going to assume it's of the former, as if you might have held a higher seat of power in the government or what have you. Now, I am not in the mood to play games, but if I have to I will. You seem like an honorable man who cares for his people, even if--no offense--your ego is slightly inflated. I am willing to help you. I understand there may not be a lot I can do, but I may be able to broker some sort of deal between you and others."

[Actaeon]

For some reason, the whole situation seemed a bit laughable to Actaeon. He couldn't help but continue to smile. This is such an odd way to fight. I understand the importance of politics, but I don't understand the idle threats and the "I could totally dominate you" statements. They talk big, but I wonder how they'd do in a fight. The big fellow could never "rip her from limp to limb" in this situation. He would barely raise an arm before I shoot him, the mages blast him, and the rest finish him off. Feeling a bit comforted by his own thoughts, Actaeon decides that maybe this situation could yield some information.

"Nemor, how did you three get chosen as representatives to come and appeal?" he asked.

[samurai-turtle]

"Bigger problems? Are...are we in danger?!"

"If Dastan is in danger it is my duty to defend Dastan if she is endangered!"

"Wroash uf uf... It is you should be afraid of me, little Knight. But I will speak with you if you insist."

What, you guys want to come along on our quest, or some thing?

[Flipz]

Looking through the books. Then asking Mallelio "I heard some people use books as throwing weapons, if I find any do you mind if I borrow them."

Asking about the wall. Is't their a big enough hole to go through?

Germ thinks back to the books they'd left behind in the building, but he can't recall much detail.

"As much as I would like to assist, I'm afraid my personal journals would be of little use to you in this situation. Besides, their contents are...well, personal." Mallelio colors a little.

"The entire northern half of the wall has already been torn down, under the supervision of Emperor Phyllius, and Emperor Septrine already ordered the gates of the tower to be kept open at the end of the war. We object to the indignity of our section being the only one still standing--it is not about access to the inner city, it is about the symbolic weight of this insult to our people."

Kiray said to Nemor, "I'll be right with you, just wait there."

Then she addressed Tarban, her voice just barely a whisper, "I understand what you were saying back there, that little slip up. Like I said, Dastan is foreign to me, but from what I can tell you did something and weren't compensated enough, or you feel you have the rights to something you may not have. I'm going to assume it's of the former, as if you might have held a higher seat of power in the government or what have you. Now, I am not in the mood to play games, but if I have to I will. You seem like an honorable man who cares for his people, even if--no offense--your ego is slightly inflated. I am willing to help you. I understand there may not be a lot I can do, but I may be able to broker some sort of deal between you and others."

"What are you saying? Speak up, I cannot hear what you are saying."

"Muahhh... What have we here?" Tarban lowers his voice to match Kiray's. "You do not know much of the Rebellion, do you? We were once proud, strong warriors in that army, but the Lions failed and the others fled. The Heroes broke the rebellion, and we, the ones who took part in it, were left no better than when we started. If it weren't for your kind, you would be speaking to Emperor Tarban now..."

Tarban strokes his fur, considering something.

"You want to help me? Fine--bring me the head of an Emperor, and the heir to their throne as well. I can handle the situation from there." The massive Pongcanis grins toothily.

"I'm sorry, I cannot hear your words, please speak more loudly, for I cannot hear you I am sorry to say."

For some reason, the whole situation seemed a bit laughable to Actaeon. He couldn't help but continue to smile. This is such an odd way to fight. I understand the importance of politics, but I don't understand the idle threats and the "I could totally dominate you" statements. They talk big, but I wonder how they'd do in a fight. The big fellow could never "rip her from limp to limb" in this situation. He would barely raise an arm before I shoot him, the mages blast him, and the rest finish him off. Feeling a bit comforted by his own thoughts, Actaeon decides that maybe this situation could yield some information.

"Nemor, how did you three get chosen as representatives to come and appeal?" he asked.

"U'Voros is no representative of his people--Lady U'Daras, successor to the late U'Stus, is the U'kin you're thinking of."

"I lost more to the war than most others of my kind--most of my family died from disease shortly before the rebellion began thanks to the Empire's negligence toward our people, and the atrocities my brother suffered at the hands of the Heroes during the war are too terrible to speak of. I suppose I am more of a speaker and less of a pessimist than most of my kind, but that is nothing compared to all I have suffered simply for being born a Tethusial."

Mallelio looks to the ground.

"There is still much to be improved in Dastan, even if things are looking up. For some, however, the change is not coming quickly enough."

"Of course it isn't--how would you feel if it was your race that had suffered generations of mistreatment? But even I will admit, an imminent threat to Dastan is--marginally--more important. For now."

What, you guys want to come along on our quest, or some thing?

"U'Voros would likely join us if asked, but it is better for all of us if he remains here, with other soldiers who can protect the Emperor and the princess. I trust Mr. Tarn, but he will need all the help he can get if something bad happens."

"You lot are awfully tight-lipped about what's going on, but I can tell you're worried. If there is danger to Dastan, then my place is with my people, protecting them as best I can."

"I am unsure as to how Mr. Tarban was chosen among the Pongcanis, but he has been protesting many of the Empire's decisions recently."

"You mean you do not know?" Nemor frowns, her watery eyes troubled. "I was told the Empire had pardoned him, I assumed you would have known. He was the leader of the Pongcanis during the rebellion, after all."

"...I did not. The Empire never did discover the Pongcanae leader after the war."

"Then that would explain why you did not execute him along with my uncle."

Mallelio spreads his arms helplessly.

"I'm sorry. Emperor Septrine and I both campaigned for leniency in that case."

"I know. That is why we sought you out."

An awkward silence ensues. An embarrassed Mallelio finally breaks it.

"Knowing now what Tarban is, I am uncomfortable leaving Ms. Nastayo alone with him. Shall we join her, Heroes?"

[KotZ]

"Maybe if you realized that starting a rebellion when you did not have the means to do so is quite a big mistake," Kiray whispered to Tarban. "Now with everything you have told me, what makes you think I won't inform on the others, that you are considering treason, and considering hiring a Hero on an official mission to carry out your plot."

Kiray then leaned up close to Tarban's ear and whispered even softer, "And what do I--and my companions--get out of carrying out this mission for you? Obviously doing something like this would hurt my job opportunities in Dastan, and I could lose my life. All of my companions could. We need to complete OUR mission first, and successfully, especially if there's even a chance I'm to get an audience with an emperor."

[Flipz]

Tarban grins wider, and U'Voros grows noticeably more nervous.

"You're the one who wanted to help, girl, and sitting on the throne would be what helps me." The Pongcanis lets loose another guttural laugh. "I would not expect Heroes to understand true politics. The weak must perish to feed the strong. If you are strong, you will succeed, and I will take the throne, and Emperor Tarban of Dastan will reward you. But you are weak, and so you will not risk defeat, and so you will not even try. In time, my people will grow strong again, and we will succeed, and there will be none to stop us. And you will have no more standing with me than you have right now, which is none. So run away, little girl, and know that no one you tell will believe you and any that do will not remain alive to do so."

[KotZ]

"If your people don't grow fast enough you will be crushed, and you know it. That's why you lost the rebellion. I'll see what I can do for you," Kiray whispered back to Tarban. She then raised her voice just slightly, just loud enough U'voros could hear if he was listening, "Just know, if you are asking me to kill the emperor for you, you better pay me well and give me some time to plan. We do have an Assassin with us." Kiray shoots her eyes to U'Voros, as if she was saying "This man is dangerous, we have to lead him on for now and arrest him."