The Trial of Julius Zamon

The Trial of Julius Zamon

Year

1325 AE

Storyline

Personal story

Chapter

Krytan Politics

Location

The Upper City
(Divinity's Reach)

Level

10

Race

Human

Choice

Nobility

Preceded by

A Society Function
Search the Premises

Followed by

The Fall of Falcon Company
Voices From the Past
The Floating Grizwhirl

API

110

The Trial of Julius Zamon is part of the personal story of human characters who chose the nobility background.

Objectives

Attend Minister Zamon's trial for treason.

• Meet Captain Thackeray and Countess Anise at the Ministry.
• Talk to the judicial scribe.
• Choose your second.
• Defeat Zamon and his second.

Rewards

Click here to edit the reward data

All professions

• 2,641 
• 1  40 
• Black Lion Chest Key (Once per week)
• Letter from Logan
• Embroidered Coin Purse

Profession-specific

• Duty-Bound Duffers
• Ragamuffin Toeshoes
• Homespun Espadrilles

Walkthrough

Meet Captain Thackeray and Countess Anise inside the Ministry. After talking with them, talk to the judicial scribe who will start the trial.

Minister Zamon invokes the ancient law of trial by combat and you are ordered to choose a second to fight along with you. Your options are Captain Thackeray (Guardian), Countess Anise (Mesmer), and Lord Faren (Warrior). Players who completed a Society Function may also choose Ministry Guard Reth (Warrior). Speaking with one of the four does not choose the second, only telling the court does, so feel free to talk to them all if you want. Zamon is an Elementalist, and casts Water Blast, Static Field, and Ring of Fire (and possibly more). Eitel is a hammer Warrior with stun and knockdown. Neither of them hit particularly hard, but since they are Veteran foes, they have a lot of health.

Captain Thackeray and Lord Faren do a decent job of distracting both of your opponents, but they do not deal very much damage themselves. Ministry Guard Reth is more fragile, as he wields a longbow, but he does a great deal of damage - Zamon has the unfortunate tendency to never move at all, and Reth takes full advantage of this by dropping Barrage on him. Selecting Countess Anise is not recommended due to her faulty AI coding, which results in her casting Chaos Armor, Chaos Storm and otherwise barely attacking. The seconds will have to be revived if they are defeated, which can put you at a significant disadvantage mid-fight.

Once a second is chosen, inform the court of your choice. Once chosen, you must enter the circle in the center of the room before combat begins, giving you some time to prepare. Once ready, enter the circle and combat will begin. Defeat Eitel first, otherwise Zamon will call for healing and have his retainer revive him (they are both invulnerable during this process). There is no limit to the number of times this can happen, which can be particularly annoying if one is using many ground-targeted damage over time skills (e.g. Elementalist with a staff) - Zamon will get up, quickly take enough damage to go down, and call for healing again.

NPCs

Allies

Humans

• Baron Corone
• Cin Fursarai
• Countess Anise
• Guard
• Judicial Scribe
• Lady Madeline
• Logan Thackeray
• Lord Benjamin
• Lord Faren
• Minister
• Minister Caudecus
• Ministry Guard
• Ministry Guard Reth (if completed A Society Function)
• Nicholas Winters
• Noble
• Observer
• Villager

Foes

Humans

• Minister Zamon

Norn

• Eitel the Unlovable

Dialogue

Cinematic with Thackeray and Anise: (If you chose "A Society Function"):

Countess Anise: I haven't had this much fun since I discovered the agriculture minister was stealing truffles.

Logan Thackeray: I remember that blustery old fool. He swore that his pet pig had dug them up by accident.

Countess Anise: The tricky part was telling him from his pig. Now then, my young friend, are you ready to present the case?

<Character name>: I've gone over everything a dozen times. Unless something goes horribly wrong, we'll get our man.

Logan Thackeray: At this rate, Queen Jennah's guaranteed to notice you. If nothing else, I'll make sure your name reaches her ears.

Countess Anise: Minister Caudecus is waiting. Signal him when you're ready. Good luck, and may Lyssa bless you with unparalleled eloquence.

Cinematic with Thackeray and Anise (If you chose "Search the Premises"):

Logan Thackeray: Our witnesses have arrived. Are you ready to present the case? As a noble, you're our best representative.

<Character name>: I've gone over everything a dozen times. Unless something goes horribly wrong, we'll get our man.

Logan Thackeray: At this rate. Queen Jennah's guaranteed to notice you. If nothing else, I'll make sure your name reaches her ears.

Countess Anise: Minister Caudecus is waiting. Signal him when you're ready. Good luck, and may Lyssa bless you with unparalleled eloquence.

After the cinematic:

Logan Thackeray: I'm a loyal servant of the crown, but if Zamon gets off, I'm going to take matters into my own hands.

Speaking with observers and witnesses: Talking to the two observers on the right side:

Observer (1): I'll be hanging on your every word. Good luck.

Observer (2): You're doing the people a service, your nobleness.

Talking to the two observers on the left side:

Observer (3): What do you think they'll do if Zamon's found guilty?

Observer (4): Absolutely nothing. Nobles never pay for their crimes.

Observer (5): What are you doing here? I didn't know you were interested in judicial matters.

Baron Marius Corone: Thackeray had me identify Queen Salma's stolen chalice this morning. I'm curious about its relevance in this trial.

Baron Marius Corone: If you get a conviction today, does that mean I get my chalice back? The Seraph's evidence room is no place for my family's most treasured heirloom.

That's up to the courts, milord. But I expect so.

Lord Faren: Don't you worry one bit. When it's my turn to testify, I'll make your case for you. It's going to be monumental.

So, you feel ready then?

I'm more than ready. Zamon sent one of his sock puppets to try to bribe me away. I don't think he realizes how rich I actually am.

The nerve! You turned him away?

Of course. The big, stinky puppet tried to intimidate me, but I demonstrated my dexterity with the blade, and he went running back to Papa. Ladies'll do anything for a hero, if you know what I mean

Whatever you say, Faren.

You made the right choice. See you later.

Looking forward to it. See you then.

Logan Thackeray: Proving Zamon's guilt won't be easy, but I have every confidence in you. Now get out there and convict that maggot.

Thanks, Captain. I will.

Countess Anise: You look calm, but I can tell you're worried. Don't be. You've done all of the necessary preparation and the facts are on our side. The case is yours to win.

Thanks for the vote of confidence, Countess. Now I just have to win it.

Cin Fursarai: I wish you'd never dragged me into this dreadful affair. I have a business to run!

Just tell the truth, and it'll all be over soon.

Lady Madeline: I'm sorry, but I have nothing to say to you. You're out to spoil my family's good name.

Your brother has already done that. I'm merely calling him to task for it.

Ministry Guard Reth (if you chose "A Society Function"): I hope you can pull this off. Talking to you has already cost me my job. If Zamon goes free, it'll cost me a lot more.

Just tell the truth, and Zamon won't be able to do any more damage.

Ministry Guard Reth (if you chose "Search the Premises"): I’m not surprised that Zamon’s guilty. As a member of the Ministry Guard, I see a lot of crazy stuff. Sometimes this job really gets me down, you know what I mean?

You have to stand by and watch while people like Zamon make a profit instead of helping our country. Have you ever thought about quitting?

Quit? I think about it all the time, but jobs are hard to come by, and money’s tight. It’s a dead-end street.

If you ever decide you want out, there’s an inn in the Salma District. I’ll gladly buy you a beer. Take care.

I understand. Zamon thinks he can buy loyalty, but good men like you shouldn’t be treated that way.

Exactly. You really understand. Hey, thanks for listening, but I’ve got to get back to work.

If you ever decide you want out, there’s an inn in the Salma District. I’ll gladly buy you a beer. Take care.

Life’s hard for everyone these days. Take care.

Minister Zamon: You're a fool, you know. You'll never convict me. I'm as innocent as a babe in arms.

The evidence says otherwise. Let's see who the court believes.

Talking to the Judicial Scribe:

Judical Scribe: Yes? How may I help you?

I am ready to present my case against Zamon and start the trial.

I have some questions before we begin.

I'm here to answer any and all questions. Ask away.

What is expected of me during the trial?

It's your job as prosecutor to present enough evidence to prove the defendant's guilt beyond a shadow of a doubt. You should also behave with respect toward the court's time, authority, and wisdom.

I am ready to present my case against Zamon and start the trial.

I have another question.

I'll come back later.

What will happen if Zamon is convicted?

The head justice of the judiciary council determines the means and timing of punishment. In today's case, Legate Minister Caudecus will be presiding.

I am ready to present my case against Zamon and start the trial.

I have another question.

I'll come back later.

What will happen if Zamon is acquitted?

Minister Zamon goes free, of course, and the evidence presented today can never be used against him again. Also, those making the false accusation will be charged with slander.

I am ready to present my case against Zamon and start the trial.

I have another question.

I'll come back later.

I'll come back later.

Cinematic starting the trial:

Judical Scribe: Hear ye! The trial of Minister Julius Zamon is hereby called to order, Legate Minister Caudecus presiding. Who stands for the prosecution?

<Character name>: I do. Your honor, we have evidence proving Minister Zamon conspired against the citizens of Divinity's Reach. He abused his authority to commit thievery, murder, and treason.

<Character name>: We will present incriminating documents and sworn testimony from respected members of the community, including the sister of the accused.

Minister Caudecus: The prosecution seems to have prepared quite a compelling case. Minister Zamon, can you refute these dire accusations?

Minister Zamon: Refute? Why bother? My Lord Caudecus, in accordance with the most ancient tenets of Krytan law, I invoke my right to trial by combat.

Minister Caudecus: This court accepts your invocation. By law and custom, you may choose a second to fight with you in the circle.

Minister Zamon: Thank you. Legate Minister. I choose my retainer, Eitel the Unlovable, as my second.

Minister Caudecus: The prosecution must also nominate a principal and a second, or forfeit the case.

<Character name>: I wll be the principal, Legate Minister. I'd like to request a short recess to select my second.

Minister Caudecus: Granted. When the prosecution is ready to continue, this court will reconvene and the trial by combat will begin.

After cinematic:

Logan Thackeray: As a Seraph captain, I can't really jump around saying, "Pick me! Pick me!" But I can certainly think it.

Further dialogues with observers and witnesses:

Baron Marius Corone: This is a most intruiging process. Wherever did you find all this evidence against Zamon?

Forgive me, milord, but I'm not at liberty to say.

Minister Zamon: It's not too late to abandon this farce. Recuse yourself and I'll see to it your honesty is rewarded. You don't want to face the alternative.

Don't threaten me, Minister. It makes you sound desperate.

Cin Fursarai: When I think of all the business I'm losing because of this trial, I fear I may weep. Minister Zamon was one of my best customers!

Try thinking of all the new customers you'll get after he's convicted on your testimony.

Lady Madeline: Please, stop this! I can take no more.

I'm sorry, milady, but I cannot. Zamon must be punished for his crimes.

Lord Benjamin: Why are you so determined to get Minister Zamon? I hope you're not looking to build your own reputation at the expense of a fellow noble's.

On the contrary, milord. I'm looking to uphold the law.

Talking to Logan Thackeray while you prepare to choose your second

Logan Thackeray : I'm ready to go if you need me. There's nothing I'd like better than to personally dish out some of the punishment Zamon deserves.

I'd love to have you beside me, Captain, but l need more time to decide.

Talking to Countess Anise while you prepare to choose your second

Countess Anise: Trial by combat? Who'd have thought it? I'm surprised Zamon even knows it's an option. There hasn't been one in over fifty years...or, at least, that's what I've been told.

Then we ought to make this as memorable as possible. Interested?

You're thinking of choosing me? Delicious! It would certainly catch Zamon and his attack dog off-guard. By all means, yes.

Excellent. l'll let you know when I've made my final decision.

Talking to Lord Faren while you prepare to choose your second

Lord Faren: Ready for action, old friend! And let me add that I'm truly flattered you're even considering me as your second. Let me at 'em! I'm at the top of my game!

Glad to know you're willing and able. l'll let you know when I'm ready to decide.

Talking to Ministry Guard Reth while you prepare to choose you second (if you chose "A Society Function")

Ministry Guard Reth: If you need backup, I'm your man. I'd rough up a crooked noble on general principle, but with Zamon it's personal. He seriously needs a beating.

I agree, but I haven't decided yet. I'll let you know when I do.

Talking to the scribe to choose your second:

Judical Scribe: Have you decided who will serve as the prosecution's second?

I've chosen former Ministry Guard Reth.

I've chosen Captain Thackeray.

I've chosen Countess Anise.

I've chosen Lord Faren.

No, not yet. I need more time to decide.

Cinematic after choosing second:

<Character name>: We're ready to begin, Legate Minister. I have chosen my second.

Minister Caudecus: An interesting choice. For the record, let it be known that this duel will continue until both members of one side surrender or are defeated.

Minister Caudecus: If Lord Zamon proves victorious, he is innocent. The case is thrown out and these charges against him may not be brought again. If you win, then Zamon is found guilty of this crime.

<Character name>: I understand.

Minister Caudecus: When you are in position, the trial by combat shall proceed. Good luck to you all. May justice prevail.

During the battle:

Minister Zamon: End this! Kill them both and let's be done with it.

Minister Zamon: I am a minister of the realm and you are nothing! Die!

Minister Zamon: Your skill is no match for my cunning!

Minister Zamon: I only... did... as I was told...

Cinematic after the battle:

Minister Caudecus: Victory is declared! According to the dictates of Krytan law, Minister Zamon is found guilty.

Countess Anise: Minister Caudecus does not look happy.

Logan Thackeray: He doesn't like anything to infringe on the rights of ministers. Trial by combat took the judgment out of his hands.

Countess Anise: Did it? How do you think Zamon knew about the ancient law in the first place? He's no historian.

Logan Thackeray: You think Caudecus advised Zamon about the clause?

Countess Anise: If Zamon won the battle, he'd be declared innocent-no more investigation. Now he's guilty, but he's also dead. No loose ends.

Countess Anise: Never underestimate Minister Caudecus

Logan Thackeray: At least we know the identity of Zamon's backer.

Logan Thackeray: Go and celebrate a well-earned victory. Anise and I will be in touch with you.

After the cinematic:

Logan Thackeray: I was genuinely hoping for a conviction based on a preponderance of the evidence... but this works too.

Talking to your second after the battle:

Countess Anise: It was marvelous fighting beside you. The queen will be glad to hear she has such ferocious friends defending the realm...and she will hear it, I can promise you that.

Thank you. Just don't forget to tell the queen how I couldn't have done it without you.

Logan Thackeray : I'm starting to think there's no problem we can't solve if we tackle it together. Now get some rest. There's sure to be more work for us soon.

Thanks, Captain. l'll be ready.

Lord Faren : We sure showed 'em didn't we? If this keeps up, I may need a grand sobriquet of my own. "The Champion of Shaemoor?" "The Gallant of Shaemoor?"

"The Mouth of Shaemoor?" But seriously, my sincere thanks for all of your help.

Ministry Guard Reth : Congratulations. I'm glad this is over, but now I have to start thinking about my future. Know of any opportunities for a Ministry Guard who got booted for doing the right thing?

I do. Check in with Captain Thackeray. There may be a place for you in the Seraph.

Speaking with observers and witnesses after the trial:

Countess Anise: Congratulations. This was a most unusual trial, but if you ever tire of adventuring, I'm sure there's a place for you among the queen's barristers. Thank you very much, Countess. Logan Thackeray: This is a great day for Krytan justice. On behalf of the city, the Seraph, and myself, allow me to say "well done". Enjoy your victory. I'll be in touch. Thank you, Captain. Baron Marius Corone: Zamon's a slippery one, eh? But you caught him anyway. I'll be sure not to run afoul of you and Captain Thackeray in the future! No worries, old friend. The just have nothing to fear from the law. Cin Fursarai: Wretched. Beastly. The only bright point in this whole farce is that I retain my dignity. You're free to go, sir. Lady Madeline: My brother dead, my family's reputation ruined. This is my reward for doing "the right thing." My poor mother... ...will be proud, milady. Because now you can start restoring your family's reputation. Lord Benjamin: Appalling. Just appalling! I thought we were past such outré displays of savage megalomania. A duel? To the death? How is this justice? The system is the system, milord. While I don't agree with it either, if you want to see it changed, be active in the government. The ministry's purpose is to listen to our voices. You're right. Absolutely right. I'm going to run for election as soon as possible. These archaic laws must be abolished. Thank you for the advice. You're very welcome, my lord. He deserved justice, milord. Which he got. Now please excuse me. Ministry Guard Reth: Glad to see that traitor get what he deserves. Now I just have to figure out what I’m going to do next. Know of any jobs for a former Ministry Guard? There might be a place for you in the Seraph. Tell Captain Thackeray I’ll vouch for you. Judicial Scribe: On behalf of the court, thank you for your efforts. On a personal note, I'm quite impressed. I've never seen a trial play out quite like this one. Well done. Thank you. I just hope such proceedings remain rare and unusual.

My story

“ Court convened to try Minister Zamon, but he immediately invoked the ancient law of trial by combat. Fortunately, my second and I prevailed, justice was served, and Zamon was declared guilty...posthumously. — My story

Notes

• The "My Story" text was changed at some point, with its original text being as follows:

Court convened to try Minister Zamon, but he immediately invoked an ancient law: the right to trial by combat. Fortunately, my second and I prevailed, justice was served, and Zamon was declared guilty...posthumously.

---

Human storyline