Episode 2, Scene 4 Sneak Peek #6

There'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. 😅 

“The circumstances of your employment have changed significantly since you left Rona,” she says. “So 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.”

“Other measures?” you snarl. “Like what? Not even Solarath can figure out how to get through that damn magic cloud—”

“You 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.”

“Time? What time do you think you have?”

Her expression hardens. “I 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 future—”

A harsh laugh crosses your lips, unbidden and uncontrolled. “What do you want us to do? Wait? Unless Zenaida intends to keep us trapped in the palace, we’re not going to sit here until you decide we’re useful to you.”

“You’re under no blood oath, you’re at liberty to go,” she says, gesturing to the library exit. “Though I’m sure House Anaxas will have many questions as to why the archon’s daughter’s 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.”

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 Zenaida’s position—and the lies she told to get you into the palace—as leverage against you, keeping you within arms reach. If you abandon your fake post as Zenaida’s bodyguard, House Anaxas’ suspicions will be raised and the House guard will hunt you across the city.