User:Sunlion/sandbox3

Dialogue

Upon entering:

Countess Anise: This will be delightful. Having the hero of Shaemoor on my arm will make tongues wag.

<Character name>: Thank you for letting me join you this evening, Countess.

Countess Anise: I'm always willing to do what I can for queen and country. That being said, let me offer you some unsolicited advice.

Countess Anise: First, mingle. Speak to everyone. You never know who will say something they'll regret later.

Countess Anise: Second, don't limit your conversations to nobility. Servants and guards see everything.

<Character name>: Understood. I suppose it goes without saying that I should be discreet?

Countess Anise: You catch on fast. Go on and charm the masses. You know where to find me if you need me, pet.

Upon talking to any of the Ministry Guards:

Ministry Guard: Welcome. Is there something I can do for you?

(A) More guards than usual tonight. Is everything secure?

Absolutely. Outside of Her Majesty's palace, there's no place more secure in all of Divinity's Reach.

Why all the security?

Where can I find some refreshments? (Same as A)

Gods protect us from misfortune! Good day.

(B) Where can I find some refreshments?

The drink table over yonder. The good minister has broken out his very best beverages for this gala.

I've heard rumors of bandit attacks. Is it safe here? (Same as B)

Wonderful. I'll go sample them.

Nothing at the moment. Carry on.

Upon talking to a Servant:

Servant: Welcome, honored guest. What may I do for you?

(A) Have you heard any interesting gossip?

Someone mentioned something about Lady Madeline, but I can't remember it precisely. Curse this addled brain of mine. Ask the cook.

Where is Minister Wi? (Same as B)

Do you have refreshments? (Same as C)

Thanks, I will.

(B) Where might I find Minister Wi?

He should be in the Main Hall greeting his esteemed guests. Doubtless he would deem it a pleasure to greet you personally!

Is there any chance you've come across some interesting gossip about any of the guests? (Same as A)

Are there any refreshments available? (Same as C)

I'll go do that now, thank you.

(C) Do you have refreshments available?

But of course! They are it the corner of the Great Hall. The Minister spared no expense—as usual for his galas.

Is there any chance you've come across some interesting gossip about any of the guests? (Same as A)

Where might I find the minister? (Same as B)

I'll go sample them now, thank you.

Nothing at the moment, thank you.

Upon talking to Baron Edmonds:

Baron Edmonds: Here's hoping this party ends better than yours did, eh? Although with all the guards, any hooligan foolish enough to show would become a pincushion right quick, ha!

Hardly an appropriate sentiment for such a grand occasion, wouldn't you say, Baron?

Forgive my boorishness, but you must admit Minister Wi has thought of everything. The man has tremendous talent for throwing the most delightful galas!

True. But there are a lot of guards.(Same as A)

Yes, quite. If you will excuse me, I must be off.

(A) As you say. But doesn't it seem that there are perhaps too many guards here?

I suppose so! Perhaps Minister Wi heard about your trouble and was determined to avoid a similar episode. Still, this much security is perculiar.

I agree. This bears looking into. Please excuse me.

Bandits or no, Baron, lives were lost at my gala. Your joke is in poor taste.

Er...of course. I meant no offense. Blame the wine. Rest assured, I shall mind my manners more carefully in the future.

An excellent idea. Good-bye, Baron. Enjoy the party.

There do seem to be a lot of guards here tonight.

And a good thing, too! How else can we relax and enjoy ourselves withsuch [sic] ruffians on the loose?

Of course, Excuse me.

Enjoy the party. Good-bye.

After gathering information:

Baron Edmonds: Delightful to see you again, but please pardon me. Lady Wi and I are engaged in a private conversation. We'll chat again later.

Understood, Baron.

Upon talking to Lady Wi:

Lady Wi: The hero of Shaemoor, in the flesh! I knew you were destined for greatness. What's next? A position in the ministry?

My interests lie more outside of Divinity's Reach than within, my lady.

Ah, to be sure. We have holdings near Claypool. Such a charming little hamlet. I love to see the peasants working so hard in the vineyards. And such glorious wine!

I didn't mean...never mind. You throw a lovely party, my lady. Good day.

Whatever serves my queen and her citizens best.

Such devotion! Captain Thackeray had best beware. He might have competition for the role of Queen Jennah's most devoted servant.

A delightful jest, my lady. I'll speak with you later.

An appealing notion. Perhaps in the future

Ah, but you've already earned far more distinction than the ministers, even ones who got an early start on their careers. I shall speak with my husband about securing you a position.

Thank you, my lady, but please don't bother on my account. I'll speak with you later.

Maybe we can talk about it next time.

Upon talking to Minister Wi:

Minister Wi: A pleasure to see you at my humble party, a great pleasure. Your name has been on everyone's lips lately! Your presence honors me.

You are far too kind, Minister. I merely did my duty as a citizen.

If all citizens of this fair city had your bravery, think how much grander Divinity's Reach would be! Nevertheless, you give all her people pride as a glorious example of high birth.

Thanks for your praise, Minister. Now if you'll excuse me, I have some mingling to do.

How could I miss such an event? I would sooner be trampled by centaurs!

Ha! Such a pleasure to have you here. I can only hope my party is up to your expectations.

I wouldn't change a thing, Minister. Now if you'll excuse me, I have some mingling to do.

Fights have a way of finding me. I can't say that I mind, however.

Ah, if this city had but a few more brave souls like you, the charr would withdraw from Ascalon, and the tengu would open their city gates to all.

Thank you, Minister. Now if you'll excuse me, I have some mingling to do.

I wouldn't have missed your party for all of Tyria. It promises to be quite an exciting evening.

Oh? Well, I hope the festivities satisfy your high expectations. Enjoy yourself.

I will. Thank you, sir.

Please excuse me, Minister. I have other business to attend to.

Upon talking to Countess Anise:

Countess Anise: I hope it's everything you expected. Just be careful whom you trust. There are far more masks here than at a carnival, and the ones we nobles wear are far less obvious.

(A) Tell me more about them. I know Lord Faren, obviously, but I want to hear what you know.

A rascal and incorrigible flirt, but a good man. Spent several years in the ministry, but stepped down for "personal reasons". There's more to that story, but that's all I'll say for now.

What can you tell me about Lady Madeline?

She never married. More's the pity, she stays home to care for her ill mother. She's lonely, but she takes solace from being a dutiful daughter.

What can you tell me about Lord Benjamin?

A likeable fellow, but don't trust him with secrets. He's a gossipmonger and you never know which master currently holds his leash.

What can you tell me about Nicholas Winters?

Ah, Nicholas! He's like his father: lucky to be wealthy. If he weren't so rich, his laziness would've been the death of him.

I want to ask you something else.

(D) What do you want to know?

What can you tell me about Logan Thackeray? (Same as C)

What can you tell me about the Ministry? (Same as B)

What can you tell me about Lord Faren and the other Krytan nobles? (Same as A)

(B) What can you tell me about the Ministry?

The Krytan Ministry has roots deep in the queen's court and has grown stronger over time. Ministers are charged with executing legal authority and advising the queen on new laws.

What can you tell me about Minister Wi?

Minister Wi's family has been influential in the city for longer than anyone can actually remember. They may well be the wealthiest family in Tyria.

What can you tell me about Minister Zamon?

Lord Zamon has always been an opportunist. It doesn't surprise me that you're onto him. He has neither the brains nor the political brawn to be a successful minister, much less a successful criminal.

I want to ask you something else. (Same as D)

(C) What can you tell me about Logan Thackeray?

Charming and loyal, especially to his queen. But what you'd find most interesting, I can't tell you. Suffice it to say that his continued evolution is fascinating. He comes from a troubled past.

What can you tell me about the Seraph?

The Seraph have guarded Kryta for hundreds of years. Logan is in charge of the company that protects Divinity's Reach. How fortunate that he's so near the queen, wouldn't you agree?

I want to ask you something else. (Same as D)

I wish to mingle. If you will excuse me?

Upon talking to Baroness Yolanda:

Baroness Yolanda: What a lovely party, and what a delight to see you! I thought you'd be out doing gallant deeds with our own dashing Captain Thackeray.

Not at the moment, I'm afraid.

Then I have you all to myself this time! Lucky me, indeed!

Ah...excuse me, I have to do something else. Something important. Farewell!

Might you know any interesting gossip?

I'd so much rather talk about YOU, darling. But since you asked, Baron Edmonds has been guzzling Wi's finest wines as if they were rainwater! Most uncouth...unlike you, my sweet.

Er...anything else?

I haven't seen Baron Corone yet! Rumor has it he's livid over the theft of his precious chalice. It was originally Queen Salma's. I hear he may offer a reward.

Anything else you can think of?

All these questions! I have one for you: what's the story with you and Countess Anise? I saw you speaking to her. Should I be jealous? Should I dye my hair red?

My dealings with the Countess are purely friendly, my lady.

Truly? I knew the Countess had peers and admirers, but friends? How enlightening. With juicy tidbits like that, you can trade gossip with me anytime, my dear.

I...of course. I'll speak with you later, Baroness.

She's taken a slight interest in me. I can't say that I mind...she's very well connected.

Indeed! How delightful! I can't wait to discover more about this "interest". Tell me everything!

Perhaps some other time, my lady. Good-bye.

I'm afraid that's my own little secret to keep.

Hmm, interesting. Well, I do love to hear the happenings of Kryta's wealthy and powerful. Come back any time, my dear. We'll share gossip!

I shall. Thank you.

A topic for later, I'm afraid. Good-bye for now.

Pardon me, my lady. I will speak with you later.

Fascinating, but er, I have to go. Right now. Bye.

Pardon me. We'll talk later, my lady.

Upon talking to Nicholas Winters:

Nicholas Winters: I heard you saved that Faren dandy from ruffians. Suppose you could let them hold on to him for a while next time? I could use a break from hearing about his romantic exploits!

Really, Sir Winters. Lord Faren is my friend. I could never let them keep him.

I'm only joking. Although I imagine if any of his captors were ladies, he'd have charmed his way out before long, eh? Hah!

I'm more concerned that a member of the gentry is issuing orders to thieves.

Your wit is quick as always, good sir. We'll speak more later.

I'm more concerned that a member of the gentry is issuing orders to thieves.

If that's true, it must be a member of the Ministry. They love money like charr love meat. Some would cheerfully hire lowborn knaves to rob their own class, the scalawags.

Let me know if you discover any proof of that. We'll speak more later.

As could we all, good sir. We'll speak more later.

Upon talking to Lord Faren:

Lord Faren: There's my heroic friend! Say, could you hold off on the acts of valor for a bit? Makes it hard to strike up a conversation with a pretty lass when she only wants to talk about you!

I'd never knowingly stand in the way of your conquests.

Ah! "Burn me," as the charr say. I have some interesting information for you! But I need a small favor first. Please?

Really, you must be joking.

(A) I've been dying to speak with Baroness Jasmina all night, but she keeps talking about you and won't believe we're friends! Can you believe that? Would you put in a good word for me?

Anything for an old friend. I'll charm her silly with lies about you.

All right. If it'll get me the information you have, I'll do it.

What is it? (Same response as A)

Not this again. I'll talk to you later.

After agreeing to speak with Baroness Jasmina:

Lord Faren: I promise I've got something truly epic to tell you! Just speak with Baroness Jasmina first—please? She's right over there!

Very well.

Upon talking to Baroness Jasmina:

Baroness Jasmina: Oh! I'm so pleased to see you. I was telling Lady Madeline I didn't know if you would make it, but here you are. I'm almost breathless.

(A) Easy there. A good friend of mine said I should speak with you.

A friend? Oh, do you mean Lord Faren?

Assuredly. Why, he's been my stalwart companion in all kinds of adventures!

Truly? So, he did bravely follow you into the bandit cave as he claims? Remarkable. Would you be so kind as to give him my regards?

I'll do that right now.

I know he seems slicker than a Delavan eel, but he's got a good heart.

I might have been too harsh with the gentleman. Please will you give him my regards?

I'll do that right now.

A friend spoke highly of you and I just had to make your acquaintance. (Same as responses as A)

I think you have me mistaken for someone else. Good-bye.

After agreeing to give Baroness Jasmina's regards to Lord Faren:

Baroness Jasmina: I wonder. Your friend Faren is a dashing fellow, but I have heard such stories about him...

Mere conjecture, I'm sure. Good day.

Back to Lord Faren:

Lord Faren: I saw it—Kormir strike me if she didn't look impressed! You're a true friend!

(A) Right, right. Now tell me that important thing, and give me the short version.

Recall our escapade in the bandit cave, and your suspicion that a minister might be pulling their strings? You're in luck, because I've confirmed said suspicion.

How did you manage that?

I believe it's Minister Zamon! I was out with a, ah, lady friend, and I saw him leaving the woods near Gibson Portage. Alone! And most suspiciously!

Those woods are infested with ruffians and criminals. You're certain he was alone?

Certain enough to testify! He was dressed for a dinner party and sauntering through the woods like he was at a ball. Might that help your investigation?

It definitely does. Thanks, Faren. I'll find you later.

Let's discuss this later.

Think nothing of it. So what was it you wanted to tell me? (Same as responses as A)

You're welcome. Good-bye.

Upon talking to the Handmaiden:

Handmaiden: Hello! I...I...oh, I've been so eager to chat with you, but now that you're here, I'm at a loss for words. You carry yourself with such quiet confidence. I'm quite overwhelmed!

I'm flattered, my lady, but please: relax and enjoy the party. We're all friends here.

I'm so sorry. I become unaccountably shy around handsome heroes. I need a moment to regain my composure.

I'll just take my leave, then. Enjoy the party.

Then I shall excuse myself to let you gather your thoughts. Enjoy the party.

Upon talking to the Cook:

Cook: No time to talk! I have a whole banquet to do. Make it snappy or get out of my kitchen!

(After talking to Lady Madeline or a Servant about the Cook) I was told you might know something interesting regarding Lady Madeline.

Yeah, I just saw her. She was arguing something fierce with her brother, the minister, and then he stormed off, yelling about "business to attend to." Something ain't right there.

Do you know anything else about the minister?

My twin brother Ellis is his cook, and the news I get is that Zamon's bad with the pay and worse with insults. Don't know what kind of minister he is, but he's a terrible boss.

Did you hear what Zamon and Madeline were arguing about?

Nope, but Lady Madeline's still here. You could try to ask her, but I think she won't like anyone asking about personal matters.

Good point. I'll be discreet if I ask her.

Interesting. I think I'll talk to her about it.

I think I'll talk to Lady Madeline about him. Thank you.

You seem like you're the man to ask about local gossip.

You got it. Baroness Yolanda is on the hunt, and anything wearing britches is fair game. It's a wonder Lord Faren hasn't gotten himself in trouble there.

Anything else?

I don't trust Ministry Guards. This place is full to the gills with 'em. Dunno why, but if you're interested, try asking one what they're doing here.

You can't think of anything else?

Nope. If you want more, ask the household servants. They hear much more'n I do because I'm stuck in here all the time.

Thanks, I'll keep that in mind.

I'll do that, thanks.

I'll keep that in mind, thanks.

Relax, my good man. I was just looking for the refreshment table.

Well, that's different. It's just outside in the main hall there, your nobleship. And please excuse my sharpness. It's been quite a day.

Thank you, I will. And I look forward to the feast.

Talk to me like that again, and you'll be feeding charr on the frontier.

Forgive me your nobleship, but Lady Wi has precise specifications. If it helps, my entire staff and I are at your disposal.

I'll keep that in mind. Good day.

I do apologize. I merely wished to offer my compliments. Everything smells delicious!

Thank you, your nobleship! I am so rarely appreciated. I spent years mastering poached moa eggs to get the yolks perfectly wobbly, and...oh sorry. I'm rambling.

You're a credit to the culinary profession. Keep up the good work.

All right, all right. I'll leave you to your work.

Upon talking to Lady Madeline:

Lady Madeline: Oh, hello. I don't believe I've had the pleasure. I am Lady Madeline Zamon.

I believe you were at Lord Faren's party, were you not?

Yes, I was! A delightful gala. Before the bandits, of course. I do not get a chance to attend many events like that...or this, come to think of it. It's a little overwhelming for me.

Are you new to the city?

Not specifically. My brother Julius and I were born here, but I've moved to the countryside to aid Mother. Do you know the Zamon estate?

Minister Julius Zamon is your brother? You must be proud of him.

(A) Yes, but I wish that...ah, forgive me. I shan't burden you with my worries. Our mother is in poor health and I am concerned for her.

(Only if the Cook has previously been spoken with) Not to be crass, but I heard tell you and he had a fight earlier. May I ask why? (Same response as B)

It sounds as if your relationship is a little strained.

Did that cretinous cook tell you that? It's sheer gossip, nothing more! Why, I should—I'm sorry. Please ignore that outburst. I fear I need a moment to collect my thoughts.

I apologize, Lady. I'll talk to you later

I'm sorry to tell you this, but I have reason to believe your brother is a traitor.

A traitor? That can't be. He wouldn't...no. I'd like to believe he wouldn't, but...

I beg you, Lady, tell me what you know. Lives could be at stake!

Lives? What about my mother's life? What if she found out that her only son was a traitor? What then?

We must consider the greater good, my lady.

(B) Gods, I knew it would come to this! He was visiting mother when a strange man came by. Julius gave him some papers, but he wouldn't say what they were, even when I asked.

Do go on.

It got worse. Julius left more packages at our mother's house for suspicious characters to pick up. I came here to confront him, but he refused to discuss it and stormed off.

Would you be willing to testify on this matter at a trial?

A trial? Oh, Julius, what have you done? May Kormir guide and Dwayna protect me—yes, I will testify. I cannot allow Julius to dishonor the family, or disrupt Mother any further.

Thank you, my lady. You are doing a great service to all Divinity's Reach.

I think she would be proud her daughter helped to save lives.

Pardon me for a moment—I must depart.

Is there something you're not telling me? (Same as B above)

Pardon me for a moment—I must depart.

Pardon me for a moment—I must depart.

Pardon me for a moment—I must depart.

Pardon me for a moment—I must depart.

Most excellent to meet you. I presume you are Minister Zamon's sister?

Why, yes. He and I were born here, but while he does business with the Ministry, I moved to the countryside to aid mother.

You must be proud of his Ministerial accomplishments. (Same as A above)

Pardon me for a moment—I must depart.

Talking to Lady Madeline after she agrees to testify:

Lady Madeline: Please, I have agreed to testify. Don't ask me for anything else, I beg you! This is difficult enough.

I understand. I wish you well, lady.

Upon talking to Lord Benjamin:

Lord Benjamin: What a party! All the chatter, gossip, and frivolity! Though I bet everyone here is terrified of having their homes burgled by those sewer rats.

You mean the robberies, correct?

Precisely, my good lad! And isn't it remarkable that the thieves have no trouble getting in and know exactly where to go for the goods? Why they must be the luckiest thieves alive!

I'd say luck has very little to do with it.

Quite so. But if it's not luck, then someone must be feeding the scoundrels information about some of the finest homes in the city. Inexcusable! Unimaginable! Something must be done.

Agreed. I think I'll go do something about it right now, in fact.

A clever point, sir. I'll bring it up with the other guests and see what they think.

Quite true. Enjoy the show, sir

Upon talking to Ministry Guard Reth:

Ministry Guard Reth: Good evening. How might I help you?

Is it normal to have this many guards at a personal event?

I...I'm afraid it is not. I'm not certain why we're here, precisely. This isn't standard procedure.

It sounds like you have some suspicions.

Perhaps, but it's risky for us to be seen talkng. Also, I'm parched. It would look more natural if a kind noble simply offered a hardworking guard a drink.

I can arrange that.

Okay. Talk to you later.

Nothing right now, thank you.

Before obtaining a drink:

Ministry Guard Reth: Don't linger too long; we're being watched. Besides, my throat's too dry to talk much.

I'll get you that drink.

Interacting with the appetizer table:

Appetizer Table: The table holds a wide variety of refreshing beverages.

Get a drink for Reth.

Leave the drinks alone.

(Talking to Ministry Guard Reth again triggers the cinematic noted below)

Upon talking to Lady Mashewe:

Lady Mashewe: Oh, you're here! It's a pleasure to see you. I adore Minister Wi's parties, but there are so many people talking, I'm afraid to strike up a conversation.

True. You never know who might be listening.

I hadn't thought much about that. People love to gossip, but I try to avoid speaking of personal affairs at parties. It's unseemly.

Quite. Such matters are best kept private.

Perhaps not. Troubling matters sometimes require immediate action, regardless of place.

You are ever so practical! It's true that emergencies care little for place or time. But I shouldn't keep you. I'm certain there are others who wish to speak to the great hero of Shaemoor!

Have you noticed anything strange at the party tonight? (Same as A)

You are as gracious as ever, Lady. Good-bye.

Someone as charming as you shouldn't be so shy!

Flatterer! You've been spending too much time with Lord Faren! Still, thank you for the thought. I shall strike up a conversation with someone new.

Have you noticed anything strange at the party tonight? (Same as A)

Best of luck. Talk to you later.

The tone of this does seem a little different, though.

Oh dear. I was hoping that was just me being paranoid, but I believe you're right. What do you think it is? The robberies?

Could be. What exactly have you noticed tonight that seems strange? (Same as A)

That, or Baroness Yolanda told one of her scandalous jokes again.

Ha! I wish that were the case. Still, you've lightened my mood considerably, thank you. I'll attempt to strike up conversation with someone new!

Not to alarm you, lady, but I was wondering if you've noticed anything strange here?

Best of luck, my lady. Good-bye.

It must be, but we can't let that ruin the festivities. Enjoy! I'll speak with you later.

(A) Have you noticed anything strange at the party tonight?

That Ministry Guard seems on edge, and Lady Madeline seems sad. But then again, I often see drama where there is none. It could just be my imagination.

Perhaps, I'll go speak with them and find out what's going on. Thank you, my lady.

Just be yourself. Talk to you later.

After talking to Lady Mashewe:

Lady Mashewe: You are kind to check on me. I am certain there are others who wish to speak with you. Go on and enjoy yourself.

Have you noticed anything strange at the party tonight?

That Ministry Guard seems on edge, and Lady Madeline seems sad. But then again, I often see drama where there is none. It could just be my imagination.

Indeed. I'll look into it. Thank you, my lady.

Ambient dialogue:

Lord Faren: Excuse me, do you have a moment? (Waves at player)

Lord Faren: Is that lady—

Nicholas Winters: Shhhhh. She'll hear you. It is. They finally let her out.

Nicholas Winters: Did you hear what happened to the orphanage? Arsonists tried to burn it to the ground.

Lord Faren: I'm appalled at the way our politicians turn a blind eye. Someone should do something!

Lord Benjamin: Come now, Lady Madeline. Everyone knows you're an expert in the intricate workings of your brother's mind.

Lady Madeline: Not of late, I fear. Between his duties as minister and my own duties, tending to Mother, I fear we've grown distant lately.

Lord Benjamin: My condolences, good lady, I meant no offense. How is your noble mother?

Lady Madeline: Somewhat improved, but she remains in poor health. I beg your pardon, my Lord. May we speak of happier matters?

Guest #1: You shouldn't drink so fast. You're going to get sick.

Guest #2: Mind your own business.

Ministry Guard Reth: Excuse me, do you have a moment?

Guest #3: This place is amazing. The gods have truly blessed Minister Wi.

Guest #4: Where is that server?

Guest #5: I'm thrilled to be invited to one of Minister Wi's parties. It's so elegant.

Guest #6: I know. No one else has his refinement...and wealth.

Guest #5: Yes, wealth helps a lot.

Guest #7: I need a violin player for a party of my own next month. Do you know any?

Guest #8: I don't, but you should ask Minister Wi. He hired three last Wintersday.

Guest #9: My shipment finally arrived. It was delayed in transit when those four-legged abominations captured the trading post.

Guest #10: You're lucky it wasn't ransacked.

Guest #11: Oh, look at the countess, will you? Such a beauty. She has the entire room in the palm of her hand.

Guest #12: Did you know she's a history buff? Ancient Kryta is her subject of expertise.

Guest #13: Do you know Minister Wi well?

Guest #14: Oh, yes. My son attends school with his youngest.

Guest #13: Have you heard the one about the queen, the minister, and the beggar?

Guest #14: Goodness, look at the time.

Handing drink to Ministry Guard Reth:

<Character name>: Here's your drink. To anyone watching, I'm just a kindhearted noble, and you're just a grateful guard. Now speak your mind.

Ministry Guard Reth: Burglaries and kidnappings are increasing, yet here we sit, idle. Lately, the Guard is never where it's needed most.

<Character name>: That drink was meant to loosen your tongue, but you still sound like you know more then you're letting on.

Ministry Guard Reth: I heard what you did in Shaemoor, and I know you've got Thackeray's ear. What I'm telling you could get a man killed, so use it well.

Ministry Guard Reth: Our orders arrive just before the raids. It's as if someone is sending us away so bandits can swoop in unchallanged.

<Character name>: You think there's a deeper connection, someone in the Ministry Guard working with the bandits directly?

Ministry Guard Reth: Higher then that. The orders come from Minister Zamon himself. Look, I'm taking a big risk here, but those bandits are scum. Please do something with this information!

<Character name>: I will. Now, enjoy your drink. I've got someone I must speak with.

Speaking with Minister Zamon:

Minister Zamon: The hero of Shaemoor deigns to join Minister Wi's party. Is that your official title now? Has <Character name> lost its luster?

It's an affectionate nickname, sir. If you had ever inspired affection, you'd understand.

Did you just insult me? Perhaps Minister Wi should hear about his guest's rude behavior.

By all means. Let's see how he reacts to your childish, boorish blather.

Bah. You're not worth my time, you preening jackanapes. Go wallow in the filth with that hedonistic pig Faren and leave me be.

Better a pig than a snake. Good day, Minister.

You don't scare me, Zamon.

You should learn better manners, then. I've dueled cretins over slighter offenses and left them bleeding in the dirt. I bid you good day!

The day we duel WILL be a good day, Minister. Farewell.

Give Minister Wi my regards. I have business elsewhere.

Don't be jealous, Minister. If you can't earn a title like mine, perhaps you can buy one.

Your jokes are tiresome and dull. Why did Minister Wi even invite you? Perhaps I'll ask him myself.

Remember to ask why he also invited Countess Anise. She's my escort.

The Countess?. Very well, I'll hold my tongue for now. But I shall speak with her about her choice of escorts.

Please do. I'm sure it would amuse her greatly. Good day.

Do as you like, Minister. I'm done with you anyway. Good-bye.

Is it even possible to have a civil conversation with you?

I reserve civility for the civilized.

A shame. It's far better to have me as a friend than an enemy.

I can see you're intent on making this conversation unpleasant. Good day.

Speaking with Eitel the Unlovable:

Eitel the Unlovable: Walk away. I'm on the clock, and I have orders not to speak to anyone.

Um. Okay. Nice talking to you.

Speaking with Logan Thackeray:

Logan Thackeray: Talk to Anise if you find out anything. She's your escort, and I'm only here in an official capacity. Plus, I have a feeling she's dying to hear everything you hear.

Will do.

Returning to Anise:

Countess Anise: You've been a busy little bee, haven't you? I presume you've gotten the information we need.

<Character name>: More than I had hoped. I've identified witnesses who will testify that Zamon had dealings with bandits.

Logan Thackeray: How lucky. I'd love to throw Zamon in a cell, but politics have my hands tied. At least with this evidence, we'll be able to call him to trial.

Countess Anise: Aha. Speak of the fiend, and he appears. Logan, it seems Minister Zamon has arrived. You're free to do your duty.

Minister Zamon: If it isn't Logan Thackeray. I'm sorry, Captain Thackeray. To what do I owe the honor?

Logan Thackeray: As Captain of the Seraph in the service of Her Royal Majesty, Queen Jennah, I call you to trial.

Minister Zamon: What? This is an outrage! I demand to know the charge!

Logan Thackeray: Treason against the crown and citizens of Kryta. May Kormir judge your words justly, and may Dwayna have mercy on you.

Speaking with your allies before leaving:

Countess Anise: My, we've certainly gone and kicked the hornet's nest here. The moment we're out of earshot, the place will be absolutely aflame with gossip.

(A) So what happens now?

The trial. I imagine Minister Caudecus will bury this case quickly. He loathes anything that makes the ministry look bad.

I feel bad for Lady Madeline. (Same as B)

See you at the trial, then.

(B) I feel bad for Lady Madeline.

We cannot choose our relations, nor control what they do. I doubt it will be of any consolation to her, but she's doing the right thing by testifying against him.

So what happens now? (Same as A)

See you at the trial, then.

See you at the trial, my lady. Thanks for a memorable party.

Baron Edmonds: Hooligans! Wastrels! Society's falling apart all around us!

Everything will be fine, Baron. Zamon's been accused of a crime, and the Seraph are doing their duty. Make your way home now.

Lady Wi: So, Zamon's been caught at last? I always knew that man was up to no good.

Very clever, my lady. How did you guess that?

His shoes, my dear, were far too expensive for a man of his rank. Vanity is the enemy of deceit. Remember that.

You have a keen eye, Lady Wi. I hope that we'll meet again someday. Farewell.

If you knew something, why didn't you report him to the Seraph?

I had no proof! If I reported people based on every wicked rumor, the prisons would be full and the parties empty.

Well, this time the rumors were right. Good evening, Lady Wi.

Of course you did.

Are you questioning my veracity?

I wouldn't dare question you, Lady Wi. Good-bye.

There will be a trial to determine his guilt or innocence. Until then, I can't really comment on it. Good evening, Lady Wi.

Lord Benjamin: Kormir's scales! This is the most exciting party I've been to in years. I simply must commend our host.

You can commend Zamon after he gets out of jail. Good-bye.

Nicholas Winters: Where did that delightful marquess go? If she needs an escort home, I'm just the man to volunteer!

She's right over there. Good luck.

Lord Faren: I knew it! I knew he was the one. Well, I didn't know, but I could have guessed! Right after you told me, that is. It would have been my very first guess.

Hurry home and tell everyone what happened. I'll see you soon.

Baroness Jasmina: Minister Zamon, a common criminal? His poor mother will be absolutely heartbroken if this is true.

I wish it weren't true, but I'm afraid the facts are against him. If you'll excuse me.

Handmaiden: I'm frightened! Will you escort me home? I'd feel much better with you around.

I'm sorry, my lady, but I have to aid the Seraph. I'm sure Minister Wi's guards can see to it that you're safe.

Ministry Guard: Clear the house, please. Minister Wi has cancelled the rest of the party. If you need an escort home, one will be provided for you.

I'm glad to hear that Minister Wi has things under control. Good-bye.

Cook: I must tell the waiters not to serve the cream puffs! They're far too delicate for an arrest. Bless me, I should have made devil's food cake instead.

There are more important things to worry about than dessert. Go home, the party's over!

Baroness Yolanda: Treason! Treachery! Subterfuge and sabotage. Come, my dear, you must tell me everything. What's this all about?

I'm sorry, madam. If you want details, you'll have to wait until the trial. Good evening.

Lady Madeline: Gods preserve me, I still cannot believe this is happening. Did you have to call him to trial publicly? If my poor mother finds out...

Forgive me, my lady. I wish it could have been otherwise.

I appreciate your consideration, but I wonder how my poor mother will react. I pray Kormir shields her from the shock.

I will join you in those prayers, my lady. Farewell.

Your brother is treasonous. He must be brought to justice.

Your words slay my hopes more cruelly than Grenth himself! Damn Julius for this. Now pray, leave me be!

As you wish, lady.

It grieves me as well, lady, but he chose his own path.

But arresting him here, for all to see? I pray my poor mother finds out gently and not from some horrible gossip!

I am sorry. Good-bye, Lady Madeline.

I'm sorry, lady. Thank you for agreeing to testify.

Kormir guide me...yes, I'll be there. It shall wrench my heart, but I would hate myself if I said nothing. Now please, leave me be.

Thank you. Farewell, lady.

Until the trial, Lady Madeline.

Ministry Guard Reth: I'm tired, hero. Tired of the lies and the politics, tired of seeing people like Zamon get away with everything. I hope you make these charges stick.

We'll do our best. If you ever need a night off Reth, there's a little inn down at the Salma District. I'll gladly buy you a beer. Take care.

Minister Wi: If you'll excuse me, I have no time to engage in idle banter. I must make sure my guests are taken care of during this difficult time.

I completely understand. I'm very sorry to have disrupted your party. Good evening.