Episode 2, Scene 4 Sneak Peek #6
Added 2022-03-23 18:29:26 +0000 UTCThere's a lot going on in this scene and a lot of dialogue variations (both positive and negative), but here's a taste of what happens when things go poorly. Because that's always fun. đ

âThe circumstances of your employment have changed significantly since you left Rona,â she says. âSo much so, the original mission Zenaida envisioned for you no longer exists. It is the will of this council that we look to other measures.â
âOther measures?â you snarl. âLike what? Not even Solarath can figure out how to get through that damn magic cloudââ
âYou are among the most experienced researchers and scholars of the arcane arts in the world, Wayfarer $lastname. Three weeks is so very little time; hardly enough to create a miracle. We are still studying the remnants. With time I have no doubt we will discover how to breach it.â
âTime? What time do you think you have?â
Her expression hardens. âI believe we have adequately explained the delicate situation here. And regardless, you are still considered an ally. We may still wish to call on you for your services in the futureââ
A harsh laugh crosses your lips, unbidden and uncontrolled. âWhat do you want us to do? Wait? Unless Zenaida intends to keep us trapped in the palace, weâre not going to sit here until you decide weâre useful to you.â
âYouâre under no blood oath, youâre at liberty to go,â she says, gesturing to the library exit. âThough Iâm sure House Anaxas will have many questions as to why the archonâs daughterâs new bodyguards have fled the palace. Considering Arathian wariness of your order, it will come as no surprise if the House suspects you of illicit activities. And as Savant Anaxas is not in good standing with her mother, she can do very little to vouch for you should you act out of turn.â
Shit.
Your fingers curl inwards, your fingernails scraping against your palms. Knowing what you know now, the Order of Lethalis has no intention of letting you leave Velantis. Umbria will use Zenaidaâs positionâand the lies she told to get you into the palaceâas leverage against you, keeping you within arms reach. If you abandon your fake post as Zenaidaâs bodyguard, House Anaxasâ suspicions will be raised and the House guard will hunt you across the city.