{"ops":[{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£We need to move!ÔÇØ I exclaim. If theyÔÇÖre declaring something like that, itÔÇÖll obviously be something flashy, like an all-out assault. I didnÔÇÖt think it would be this soon when they mentioned at the auction that their names would be known by the end of the Inteiru Expota. On the other hand, an attack doesnÔÇÖt make complete sense because the strongest military forces on Sholoth are gathered in Syrina. The circumstances are not in their favor now compared to back then."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£No. WeÔÇÖre not leaving without Aisha!ÔÇØ Ada exclaims while pulling on the unbreakable chains."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"Aisha frowns and lowers her eyes. ÔÇ£I wonÔÇÖt blame you if you leave me. The city is more important right now.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£YouÔÇÖre more important to us,ÔÇØ Irwin says."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£WeÔÇÖre not abandoning you, Aisha,ÔÇØ Melody says."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£As your leader, I wantÔÇöÔÇ£"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Shut up. We came to rescue you, and weÔÇÖre not leaving without you. I donÔÇÖt care what you want,ÔÇØ Deniz says."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"I donÔÇÖt blame them. IÔÇÖd probably do the same thing in their shoes. ItÔÇÖs not like we have to choose one or the other anyway."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Guys, we can do both,ÔÇØ I say. ÔÇ£You guys stay here and help Aisha escape while the rest of us return to Syrina. WeÔÇÖll meet you there.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Roger that,ÔÇØ Deniz says."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"I nod and then run back the way we came from, with Hina and her team following behind. ÔÇ£Ruby, Marin, weÔÇÖre headed back to the city!ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£ÔÇÖKay!ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Wait!ÔÇØ Hina exclaims as we turn into the corridor that we arrived from. "},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"I stop and turn around. ÔÇ£WhatÔÇÖs wrong, Pearl?ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"She turns her head toward the caged monsters, supposedly Aerkins. It canÔÇÖt be that she wants to save them in some way in this exact moment, right?"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£We canÔÇÖt just leave those Aerkins trapped in those cages,ÔÇØ Hina says."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"I knew it. I want to tell her that sheÔÇÖs stupid and unreasonable at this very moment, only I canÔÇÖt. I walk up to her and put an arm around her. ÔÇ£I know how you feel, but we donÔÇÖt have time for this. They could be arriving in Syrina at any moment.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£You said you didnÔÇÖt know how you could help me. This could be how.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"WeÔÇÖre going to do this "},{"attributes":{"color":"black","italic":true},"insert":"now?"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Hina, whatÔÇÖre you talking about?ÔÇØ Luke asks. ÔÇ£Help you with what?ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Her goal to give monsters rights,ÔÇØ I clarify."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"Luke knits his eyebrows, scrunches his nose, and twists his lips upward."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"Hina never told him? So, none of her team members know about her aspirationsÔǪ Taking advantage of HinaÔÇÖs hesitation to answer, I smile, careful not to appear disingenuous or sarcastic. I continue, ÔÇ£You know. Mass feed them and cease hunting them.\""},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Not "},{"attributes":{"color":"black","italic":true},"insert":"all "},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"monsters, you know that, Darling. Only the "},{"attributes":{"color":"black","italic":true},"insert":"good "},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"monsters, as you call them. The ones that can make decisions, like Splinter.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Thanks for the correction, Pearl,ÔÇØ I say. ÔÇ£ThatÔÇÖs basically it, Luke. She has a very ambitious, benevolent mission.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"Luke repeatedly nods his head slowly, still looking at us like weÔÇÖre crazy. Simon and Dennis give a similar reaction. Luke says, ÔÇ£Hina, I donÔÇÖt mean to burst your bubble, but warning the city about the group who attacked our city and "},{"attributes":{"color":"black","italic":true},"insert":"killed "},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"two of our friends is more important than freeing the monsters from their cages.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£WeÔÇÖre not goinÔÇÖ to free them yet. Give us a few minutes to try talkinÔÇÖ to them to see if they can be reasoned with. ItÔÇÖs all I ask,ÔÇØ Hina says."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Pearl, I doubt these monsters are the "},{"attributes":{"color":"black","italic":true},"insert":"good "},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"monsters that you want to save. We heard it from Cascabel themselves,ÔÇØ I say while imprinting that name into my head. IÔÇÖll never forget it. ÔÇ£They used a new method to tame the AerkinsÔÇöthe Slave Collar and Slave Remote, no doubt. ThatÔÇÖs probably why they appear docile.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£We donÔÇÖt know for sure,ÔÇØ Hina says."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£What we do know is that the masked men will appear in Syrina, so letÔÇÖs go!ÔÇØ Luke exclaims."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Pearl, we can come back for them later as soon as we deal with the impending threat at the city,ÔÇØ I say."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Fine.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£WeÔÇÖve already wasted a lot of time. I say we go full-speed with Enhancement magic,ÔÇØ Luke suggests."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Agreed,ÔÇØ I say. "},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Can everyone keep up?ÔÇØ Luke asks, glancing over to Marin and Ruby."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£You donÔÇÖt need to worry about them,ÔÇØ I say. ÔÇ£Lead the way.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Try not to lose your footing. ItÔÇÖs slippery,ÔÇØ he says and runs toward the exit."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"The rest of us follow him. We progress through the forest and back into Syrina through the Human entrance. Our pace slows because the streets are too crowded to continue at full speed. ThereÔÇÖs no panic, so Cascabel probably hasnÔÇÖt made their first move yet. TheyÔÇÖre definitely here somewhere. Just a little further to the plaza."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"When I think about revealing to General Nero that IÔÇÖve disobeyed his orders, I feel uneasy. In general, IÔÇÖve grown more lenient toward not following orders to a T recently, especially when Captain Albius told me a while back that I only received that punishment following the Ragnar incident because the General didnÔÇÖt like me. There was nothing wrong I did. It wasnÔÇÖt my fault."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"What should matter are results. Although I broke orders, I discovered something crucial about the masked men's identity and their next move. General Nero should understand and value that, so there wonÔÇÖt be a punishment. Worst case, he could take away my promotion."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"We reach the plaza, leaving only a straight path to the castle at the end. No doubt we have the attention of everyone present in the area, which includes soldiers from every kingdom. Jetia and the others not taking part in our side objective still diligently standing where we left him."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"No one from the sidelines moves as we run across the gap between the armies. Two figures from the castleÔÇÖs entrance run toward us. Judging by one of their running styles, theyÔÇÖre Xog."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"We stop as they eventually intercept us. One guy has a wolf head for a face which makes me a little uneasy even though I shouldnÔÇÖt be surprised anymore. HeÔÇÖs definitely a Feradian. The other person has a human-looking face except with light gray fur in places where there shouldnÔÇÖt be any facial hair, leaving only the area around his eyes, nose, and mouth with bare skin. Is he supposed to be a Feradian or a Dociform? IÔÇÖm not sure, but IÔÇÖll assume a Dociform. Both have Titanium equipment."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"Hina holds onto my arm."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Where do you think youÔÇÖre going, Humans?ÔÇØ the wolf Feradian asks. ÔÇ£Go back to your line.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£We have important information to deliver. Let us pass,ÔÇØ Luke says, trembling a little."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£What information?ÔÇØ the wolf Dociform asks. ÔÇ£Why donÔÇÖt you tell us, and weÔÇÖll deliver it for you.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£ThereÔÇÖs no time for this,ÔÇØ Luke says and then starts to walk past them."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"The wolf Dociform steps in front of him and shoves him to the ground. ÔÇ£Oh? WeÔÇÖre not worth your time?ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"Simon and Dennis help Luke back on his feet. "},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"It doesnÔÇÖt look like these Xog are going to less us pass without a good reason. LukeÔÇÖs right. We donÔÇÖt have that much time to waste here. We canÔÇÖt afford to reveal the information here because of a possible panic. Or they wonÔÇÖt believe us because the world doesnÔÇÖt know about the attack on our city. And Cascabel is probably already here, planning their attack. We only have one option, but itÔÇÖs risky. WeÔÇÖre also surrounded by Xog to our left and right in this last stretch to the castle."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£WhatÔÇÖs going on, Leon, Jasper?ÔÇØ Pem asks, suddenly appearing behind the two wolf Xog."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"Her again."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£PemÔǪyou didnÔÇÖt have to come. ItÔÇÖs just a few measly Humans,ÔÇØ the wolf Feradian says."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£The others wanted me to check on you two and make sure you donÔÇÖt get us into trouble,ÔÇØ Pem says."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£WeÔÇÖre doing our jobs properly. These Humans claim they have important information but wonÔÇÖt tell us. Suspicious.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£What if they do? Do you want to be the one responsible for suppressing it?ÔÇØ Pem asks."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£No, but I donÔÇÖt trust them. TheyÔÇÖll try something when we least expect it. TheyÔÇÖre nervous.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Ehehe! DonÔÇÖt you know that "},{"attributes":{"color":"black","italic":true},"insert":"yellow-belly "},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"is among them?ÔÇØ Pem asks and points to me."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Oh, heÔÇÖs "},{"attributes":{"color":"black","italic":true},"insert":"that "},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"one Bazaleon mentioned? Birds of a feather do flock together!ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"The three of them burst out laughing. "},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"This two-faced rat girl... I really donÔÇÖt know whatÔÇÖs going on in her mind. First, she acted all innocent when we met, but then she spewed lies about me to the Feloidians, which nearly got me killed, though she saved me from that. ItÔÇÖs her fault that I met Bazaleon and got called a yellow-belly. Now sheÔÇÖs reveling in it. At least IÔÇÖm not the only one theyÔÇÖre laughing at this time."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"The wolf Dociform stops laughing and asks, ÔÇ£Who are you Humans trying to deliver the information to?ÔÇØ "},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£We need to see the king,ÔÇØ Luke says."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£So, you plan to intrude the Grand HallÔǪÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£WeÔÇÖll allow the yellow-belly to enter the castle,ÔÇØ the wolf Feradian says. ÔÇ£But, youÔÇÖll have to deal with the Elves and Dwarves first. The other Humans wait outside with us.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£IÔÇÖll tag along with him as insurance,ÔÇØ Pem says."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"I guess thatÔÇÖs my queue. Hina lets go of me, and then I run past the two wolf men with Pem alongside me."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£WhatÔÇÖre you up to?ÔÇØ I ask. Is it a coincidence that things at progressing in my favor? Without PemÔÇÖs interruption, we would have had trouble getting past those two Xog."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Shut up, Human,ÔÇØ she answers."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"I frown and cock an eyebrow. She said I was her first Human friend, but she doesnÔÇÖt act like it. I canÔÇÖt let my guard down around her."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"Soon, we reach the entrance, where members from every race and kingdom stand guard. IÔÇÖm tempted to take a deeper look at all the different types of Xog on the left side, but I only get a glimpse. I donÔÇÖt dare look again. I saw a birdÔÇÖs beak, a lizardÔÇÖs tail, and horns. I know theyÔÇÖre not monsters, but my instincts want to tell me that they are."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Halt,ÔÇØ an Elf says. ÔÇ£Declare yourself and your purpose.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£IÔÇÖm Sergeant Kai from Drosera. I have critical information to pass along to the kings,ÔÇØ I inform and then widen my eyes. The group of Dwarves next to the Elves are Vanguards. They don the same style of Titanium armor. I canÔÇÖt tell if any of these Dwarves know me from yesterday because I donÔÇÖt want any misunderstandings. There will be more of them inside, right? Proof that IÔÇÖm not going to rat."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£What kind of information?ÔÇØ he asks."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£It concerns public safety,ÔÇØ I say and then feel the atmosphere around me changing the moment I do."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"The Dwarves glare at me. "},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£This Human isnÔÇÖt lying,ÔÇØ Pem adds. ÔÇ£IÔÇÖll keep an eye on him.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Very well. You have our permission to proceed,ÔÇØ the Elf says as their group steps out of the way."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£So, IÔÇÖm good to go, right?ÔÇØ I ask, slowly walking forward. Are the Dwarves and Humans supposed to say something too? Captain Albius isnÔÇÖt here, so he must be inside. Well, if theyÔÇÖre staying silent, it must be okay."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Be warned, we will knoo if ye be tellinÔÇÖ de troof, boy,ÔÇØ a Dwarf says as I pass by their group."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ItÔÇÖs really just an unfortunate misunderstanding. I speed up to a sprint as I go through the open gates. The number of troops inside are fewer in number spread farther apart along the walls on both sides. The Grand Hall must be behind the tall double doors at the end of this short path. Captain Albius stands guard by the double doors with another Human, two Elves, and two Vanguards."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Sergeant Kai, what brings you here?ÔÇØ Captain Albius asks."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£IÔÇÖve got an important message. Is this the Grand Hall?ÔÇØ I ask."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£YouÔÇÖve come to the right place,ÔÇØ Captain Albius says and then approaches the double doors. "},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"I follow closely behind. The doors creak loudly as he pushes them open. The chatter inside comes to an abrupt stop."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"Over a hundred figures appear in clusters around the room. The doors close automatically behind us."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"Bazaleon sticks out like a sore thumb from the Xog crowd. A cold chill goes down my spine, thinking about my close encounters with him."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£What is the meaning of this interruption?ÔÇØ King Diell asks."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black","italic":true},"insert":"Get a hold of yourself."},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":" I focus on the task at hand and answer, ÔÇ£Sergeant Kai speaking, I bring urgent news. I discovered the snake earring bandit group is the same as the white-masked group who attacked Drymo. They call themselves Cascabel and shouldÔÇÖve already arrived.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£"},{"attributes":{"color":"black","italic":true},"insert":"What?!"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇØ the room roars."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"Judging by their reaction, theyÔÇÖve already been informed about the attack on the city. People murmur and shuffle around the room. ┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Mobilize our units outside now!ÔÇØ King Diell exclaims."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"Captain Albius turns around and rushes over to the door. Suddenly, a strong gust of wind blows him, Pem, and me further into the room."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£YouÔÇÖre going nowhere!ÔÇØ someone exclaims, consequently silencing the room."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"I stand up and scan where I stood. Two white-masked men appear floating in the air above the exit. I widen my eyes. ItÔÇÖs too late; theyÔÇÖre here!"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£No one move. Our allies outside "},{"attributes":{"color":"black","italic":true},"insert":"will "},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"wreak havoc around the city should you choose to make a scene here,ÔÇØ one of the masked men warns."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"I grit my teeth and fists, recognizing this voice. ItÔÇÖs "},{"attributes":{"color":"black","italic":true},"insert":"himÔÇöt"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"he one who turned my life upside down."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£What do you want?ÔÇØ King Diell asks."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Simple. We only have a few demands. First, youÔÇÖll cancel your reforms for coexistence.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Why? What do you hope to gain?ÔÇØ King Diell asks."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£ItÔÇÖs the sole purpose for our formation. We directly oppose the idea. ThereÔÇÖs no other reason. Should you ignore our wishes, youÔÇÖll face the consequences. You wouldnÔÇÖt want to have "},{"attributes":{"color":"black","italic":true},"insert":"another "},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"tragedy, would you?ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Is that a threat?ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£ItÔÇÖs a warning. Let Drymo serve as an example of what could happen if your race supports coexistence, Elves, Dwarves, and Xog. WeÔÇÖll know of your decision tomorrow. Those who openly support and push for coexistence "},{"attributes":{"color":"black","italic":true},"insert":"will"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":" be punished. We have a long list of individual supporters on our radar already.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Your second demand?ÔÇØ King Diell asks."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£We want some of your B-Glims.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"B-GlimsÔǪ? WhatÔÇÖs that? I thought there were only Glims and P-Glims. "},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"No one responds. The masked man continues, ÔÇ£You know staying silent wonÔÇÖt do you any favors with your furry friends present.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£ThatÔÇÖs underhanded.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Coexistence is a pain, isnÔÇÖt it? So, how about it?ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£We canÔÇÖt give you those. They are our national treasures,ÔÇØ King Diell replies."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£YouÔÇÖll be left with no choice but to hand them over if you donÔÇÖt want some of your other secrets spilling into the public.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£I do not know who told you about our treasures, but we will not hand them to you.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£WeÔÇÖll see about that. IÔÇÖm looking for a book trilogy that starts with the letter ÔÇÿM.ÔÇÖ Do you know anything about that?ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£What game are you playing? If you want a book, go to the library.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£HmmÔǪ I believe the second letter is ÔÇÿW.ÔÇÖÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Im-impossibleÔǪÔÇØ King Diell mutters. ÔÇ£How do youÔǪ?ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Third letter ÔÇÿM.ÔÇÖÔÇØ "},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Shut your mouth!ÔÇØ King Diell exclaims."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Stop!ÔÇØ multiple individuals yell."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£FourthÔÇöÔÇ£"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£I will hand you DroseraÔÇÖs B-Glims!ÔÇØ King Ford says quickly. ÔÇ£Do not speak another word of this matter.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"WhatÔÇÖs this reaction? This book trilogy has worked up three of our kings and several others. A book that starts with the letters ÔÇÿMWM?ÔÇÖ What sort of word is that? I still canÔÇÖt wrap my head around that a type of Glim is a national treasure."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"The masked man responds, ÔÇ£No, we want the B-Glims in this castle. YouÔÇÖll give them to us tomorrow morning in front of the castle.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£"},{"attributes":{"color":"black","italic":true},"insert":"Who"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":" in the world are you?ÔÇØ King Diell asks."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Your nightmare. Do we have a deal?ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£What deal? You fiend,ÔÇØ King Diell says."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"The man chuckles and then says, ÔÇ£My silence in exchange for your B-Glims. ItÔÇÖs a fair trade. Or would you prefer that I utter the bookÔÇÖs full name right here?ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"King Diell says, ÔÇ£You would not dare. If you know of the book, then you must also knowÔÇöÔÇ£"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Shut up, you fool. You have said enough,ÔÇØ King Ford says."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"After pondering for several seconds, King Diell replies, ÔÇ£Fine. You have a "},{"attributes":{"color":"black","italic":true},"insert":"deal"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":".ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£DonÔÇÖt worry, we arenÔÇÖt going to rob you. We only require one of each type.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£We will have it ready for you tomorrow. How do we find you?ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£WeÔÇÖll make you aware of our presence when the time comes.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Fine,ÔÇØ King Diell responds. ÔÇ£Is that all?ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Not quite. This evening, we want you to make a public announcement to spread awareness of our name, Cascabel.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Fine.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£ThatÔÇÖs all. Clear the hall leading up to this room without alerting to our presence, and weÔÇÖll be on our way,ÔÇØ the masked man says."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"King Diell signals his hand."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Captain Albius, take care of it,ÔÇØ General Nero says."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Lotrem, ye go,ÔÇØ the Dwarven king says."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"Hearing a familiar name, I look over and see two familiar faces. Lotrem and Nazug with the Dwarven crowd that only number ten heads including the king. Hold on a second. TheyÔÇÖve all got Mithril armor. Are they above the Vanguards? "},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Shadow,ÔÇØ the Elven king says."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"Captain Albius, Lotrem, and an Elf walk toward the only exit to the room."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"So, Lotrem and Nazug have control over the Vanguards, who can only be elite national guards at this point. When the Vanguards told me not to rat, did the order come from them or someone higher up? I thought it was Floyd, but what if it was Nazug? I know theyÔÇÖve got a long-range communication tool. They went through a lot of trouble silencing me. What did they want to keep secret? Is it still the Aerkin arena, or is it because someone high up the Dwarven ladder is participating in illegal activities?"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"The doors creak open as Captain Albius pulls them open. Lotrem and an Elf following closely behind."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"That reminds me. Why werenÔÇÖt there any Xog in that hall? I didnÔÇÖt get a good look before, but several other menacing Xog stand beside Bazaleon. The three to the right of Bazaleon look equally as dangerous, not losing at all in physical size. TheyÔÇÖre all decked out in Mithril armor too."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"The first one with a bullÔÇÖs head is the tallest of them all. HeÔÇÖs got two curved horns on top of his head, hooves for feet, brown hair covering his body, and a tail. Of course, he probably has an appropriately sized weapon on his back."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"The next Xog has the thickest frame, and heÔÇÖs a tad taller than Bazaleon. A bearÔÇÖs head rests on his shoulders. White fur covers his body."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"The third one gives me a chill not because of his size but his appearance. He looks like some sort of lizard beast, but he also has a pair of wings. Scales cover his entire body outside his armor, including his head, arms, legs, wings, and tail. He has spines around his body with clusters of them on top of the head and along the tail."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"The Xog after that has much bigger wings, but thatÔÇÖs expected of someone with an eagleÔÇÖs head. Compared to the four to his left, he doesnÔÇÖt look as intimidating. That giant bow heÔÇÖs got resting on his back seems interesting, though."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"Hmm? A rabbit girl? Other than a small pink triangular-shaped nose and two long, thin ears on top of her head, she looks like a Human girl. Strangely enough, I find her a little cute. ItÔÇÖs too bad her assets are covered by her armor. Actually, nevermind. Her disproportionate thick legs ruin her otherwise great feminine appearance. Or maybe itÔÇÖs really fluffy white fur. She wouldÔÇÖve been like a cuter version of Pem."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"I thought Bazaleon said only the strong should rule. That explains why they opt to have no extra guards because their decision-makers are the most powerful. But is this girl supposed to be one of those people? "},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ItÔÇÖs hard to see how many they have because of the bigger types blocking my view. I know of the Felodians and Muriforms, but I donÔÇÖt know how many more types there are. I presume they have one representative of each kind. Could this girl be the representative for the Muriforms? I think Pem mentioned that included rabbits. Or is she considered a Feradian because of her legs, making her something else?"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"Speaking of which, whereÔÇÖs Pem? SheÔÇÖs not where I thought she landed after the knockback. I glance around the room without any luck. And then a thought comes to mind. She canÔÇÖt possibly be thinking about attacking the masked men before they leaveÔǪ She should be smart enough to know that provoking them here might result in their comrades attacking the city."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"The doors open again."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"Captain Albius enters the room and informs, ÔÇ£ItÔÇÖs clear.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"He keeps one of the doors open while Lotrem holds the other one."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£DonÔÇÖt forget about your end of the bargain,ÔÇØ the masked man says, slowly descending to the ground. A wall of Scrap Mana appears behind them as they walk out. One more footstep resounds and then silence. The layer of Scrap Mana disappears within a second, but both are already gone by that time."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"How?"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"Captain Albius and Lotrem return to their original positions. The room remains silent for a few more seconds."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"The moment both doors close, King Diell exclaims, ÔÇ£Xog! Are you toying with us? Why did you not inform us of their presence?ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"Bazaleon laughs before replying, ÔÇ£YouÔÇÖre so quick to pin the blame on us, arenÔÇÖt you, Human?ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£You put great pride in your superior sensory system, but you are telling me that you did not hear or smell them before they appeared?ÔÇØ King Diell asks."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£ItÔÇÖs good enough that I could smell you and the other Human kingsÔÇÖ fear the moment the man spoke of that book. ItÔÇÖs laughable coming from the race telling other races to be transparent. Do you have something youÔÇÖd like to share with the rest of us?ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Do not change the topic,ÔÇØ King Diell says."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£We would relish knowing as well,ÔÇØ the Elven king says. ÔÇ£What is so paramount about a book that simply learning the name is perilous enough for you to warrant giving away your national grade treasures to gangsters?ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Those men didnÔÇÖt have an odor before they appeared, and I assure you that they didnÔÇÖt make a sound either,ÔÇØ Bazaleon informs."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Before? So you could track them now?ÔÇØ King Diell asks."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£No, theyÔÇÖve covered themselves in an "},{"attributes":{"color":"black","italic":true},"insert":"offensive "},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"foul-smelling odor. Pem, perhaps you can explain better now that theyÔÇÖre gone,ÔÇØ Bazaleon says."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"Pem walks out from behind Bazaleon with her nose pinched closed. So thatÔÇÖs where she was. She lets go of her nose, takes a sniff, and then gags."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£IÔÇÖm sorry,ÔÇØ Pem says, keeping her nose pinched. ÔÇ£The smell is still in the room.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£PemÔÇÖs one of our best scent trackers in the kingdom. We have no one more qualified than her,ÔÇØ Bazaleon informs."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£ItÔÇÖs impossible. I could only smell the awful stench around their bodies,ÔÇØ Pem says."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£There you have it,ÔÇØ Bazaleon says."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Could you not track the origin of this foul odor?ÔÇØ King Diell asks."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Your enemies arenÔÇÖt stupid. If theyÔÇÖve prepared this trick for us, theyÔÇÖre aware of our weaknesses. TheyÔÇÖll have a way to remove it and misdirect us,ÔÇØ Bazaleon says."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Weaknesses? I never thought I would hear that word from your mouth,ÔÇØ King Diell says."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"Bazaleon growls and then says, ÔÇ£DonÔÇÖt get the wrong idea. YouÔÇÖve allowed them to bend you over while having to fancy their every demand. If this was in our territory, we would rip them to shreds. They would not dare pull this stunt with us. IÔÇÖve answered your question. Now itÔÇÖs your turn.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"King Diell exchanges a few glances with the other Human kings before responding, ┬áÔÇ£We cannot tell you anything about the book. This is secret knowledge passed down from one generation to the next that only a few select people from each kingdom are allowed to know at any one point. I have not read the book, so I do not know why it is forbidden. It is a tradition held strict by our ancestors.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£That is quite a predicament if Cascabel holds this awareness now. So, you will grant them whatever they optate every single time they come before you in order to preserve your secret?ÔÇØ the Elven king asks."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£No, we will think of something in the future. We only comply now to keep our residents safe. We need to figure out how the information leaked first.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Our kind would be glad to help you figure out the traitor if you give us enough incentive,ÔÇØ Bazaleon says."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£No, we will do our own investigation,ÔÇØ King Diell answers."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Suit yourself.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"The doors burst open. Several of the Xog I saw at the entrance run into the room. They exclaim, ÔÇ£Sir!ÔÇØ "},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"Is there something going on outside? A stream of Humans, Elves, and Dwarves are approaching from behind them."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Is everything fine in here?ÔÇØ the wolf Feradian asks."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£We had two unexpected guests, but theyÔÇÖre gone now,ÔÇØ Bazaleon informs. ÔÇ£Is there any abnormality outside?ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£WeÔÇÖre sorry, sir. Everything was normal until this odor appeared,ÔÇØ the wolf Feradian informs. ÔÇ£Give us the order, and weÔÇÖll look for the intruders.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£That wonÔÇÖt be necessary,ÔÇØ Bazaleon says. ÔÇ£Go back to your station.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Understood,ÔÇØ he says and then leaves."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"Silence fills the room again as the doors slowly come to a close."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Earlier, we denoted that we are partial in pursuing coexistence. However, in light of the incipient situation, I believe it is in our best interest to no longer be involved with your business,ÔÇØ the Elven king declares."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£What? We have not even begun negotiating,ÔÇØ King Diell says."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Give us an equal amount of B-Glims that you plan to give to Cascabel, and we will remain interested,ÔÇØ the Elven king says."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Do not be unreasonableÔǪwe do not have that many to spare. They are not useful to you if you do not know what they are.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Then tell us what they are utilized for.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Unfortunately, that is classified information. Even among us, there are not many who know of their purpose or existence.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Everything is a secret with you, Humans. Regardless, I insist that you provide us with B-Glims and their intended purport.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£If they are what you want, then it is only fair that we demand something of equal value from you,ÔÇØ King Diell says."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Then we are finished here,ÔÇØ the Elven king says. ÔÇ£We will be departing first.ÔÇØ "},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Wait a moment,ÔÇØ King Ford says. ÔÇ£I am willing to put some of DroseraÔÇÖs B-Glims on the table for negotiations. Please, consider it. How about we adjourn the meeting for today and continue our discussions tomorrow?ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£That is fine. We will consider it. Shadow, prepare our units outside,ÔÇØ the Elven king says. The Elf from earlier walks to the exit."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"King Diell turns to me and asks, ÔÇ£Sergeant Kai, is it? Which kingdom are you affiliated with?ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Drosera, sir,ÔÇØ I respond."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£I appreciate you making an attempt to come here and warn us about Cascabel, but how did you come to learn of this information?ÔÇØ King Diell asks."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"General NeroÔÇÖs gaze falls onto me. I have everyoneÔÇÖs attention. I hoped this situation would never arrive. What do I say? Even though it was too late to be of any use, it seems like he views it as a good thing. Do I claim the credit or give it to General Nero?"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"I know the Dwarves told me not to rat, and I donÔÇÖt know precisely what theyÔÇÖre referring to anymore. If I give my story, I would have to at least include the part where we went to the auction and followed a lead from there. Based on the discussion, weÔÇÖre in a poor negotiating position, so if I tell the higher-ups that the Dwarves sold Cascabel weapons, that could be a good thing."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"The Vanguards called me an army dog, so I canÔÇÖt give General Nero credit. If they think I was taking orders from someone higher up, who knows how theyÔÇÖll react. I have to take full responsibility. I canÔÇÖt lie anyway with the Xog present in the room. Though I canÔÇÖt tell the whole truth either, so lying is inevitable. It shouldnÔÇÖt concern them enough for any of them to get involved in our Human business, IÔÇÖd have to hope."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"I need to go with something because they can smell my fear and hear my pounding heart. I canÔÇÖt wait too long."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£IÔÇÖm sorry to interject, King Diell, but he was acting under my orders,ÔÇØ General Nero says before I have a chance to respond."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"WhatÔÇÖs he doing? Bazaleon and the other Xog seem to have no reaction. Neither do the Dwarves."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Oh, is that so?ÔÇØ King Diell asks. ÔÇ£The orders where you told him to go back to the inn and stay there until this morning?ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Yes, sir. I could not be specific because it was not a private conversation. My original orders for Sergeant Kai and Sergeant HinaÔÇÖs team were to investigate, so thatÔÇÖs what I meant when I said my orders would not change. Our king's friend was part of the conspiracy to attack our city, so forgive me for not sharing this information before. We didnÔÇÖt know who we could trust. We had reason to believe they would be at the Inteiru Expota because Sergeant Kai encountered them during the Rising Champions. Specifically, I wanted Sergeant Kai and Sergeant Hina to investigate the Dwarven hub underneath Syrina.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black","italic":true},"insert":"Damn"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":", did Captain Albius tell General Nero that I got the pass and intentionally broke orders? IÔÇÖm screwed in so many ways. Though, IÔÇÖm concerned more about the Dwarves right now. General Nero has painted a target on my back whether or not he realizes it. I donÔÇÖt want them throwing me at Xog, especially afterÔǪwait a minute."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"Bazaleon already found the supposed perpetrator of that whole mess about the man with the diagonal scar across his chest. Even if they told the Xog that it was me all along, who are they going to believe? Pem, his trusted pupil or bunch of Dwarves? Especially if itÔÇÖs after I speak poorly about them. Anything they might say about me after the fact would be passed off as a grudge."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£I see. Perhaps Sergeant Kai can fill us in on the details of his investigation. What did you discover down there?ÔÇØ King Diell asks."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"The atmosphere thickens. I know the Dwarves are sending me death stares right now, and I donÔÇÖt want to make any eye contact with them. Especially not after my response."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£We attended some black market auction sponsored by the Dwarves in the underground city earlier this morning thinking that Cascabel could make an appearance there. The Dwarves sold a large Mithril sword to someone with snake earrings, and since we didnÔÇÖt have a lot of leads, we ended up tailing them to their hideout.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"King Diell knits his eyebrows. ÔÇ£You "},{"attributes":{"color":"black","italic":true},"insert":"found "},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"the elusive snake earring banditsÔÇÖ hideout? How did you manage to accomplish that?ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£We had a few of our allies camped outside the city. We were told there was a secret entrance to the underground city, so some of us waited in case suspicious people came through. They tailed them to note the location before coming back and leading us there.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£You remained undetected?ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Yes, until we decided to raid the place. Unfortunately, only the lower-ranked members were there by the time we arrived. ThatÔÇÖs where we recognized the familiar white masks stashed in one of the rooms. We ran back as soon as we could.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£I will commend you for your bravery, showing no hesitation to rush into a dangerous situation. We need more soldiers like you, however, I advise you to avoid being reckless in the future. We cannot afford to lose any more exceptional soldiers.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Thank you, sir. IÔÇÖll keep that in mind,ÔÇØ I respond."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"King Diell turns his head toward the Dwarves. ÔÇ£King Grossel, so you have sold Mithril weapons sooner to Cascabel than to us?ÔÇØ "},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Ay be nae in charge oÔÇÖ dat, but we did nae knoo dat been Cascabel. We be nae breakinÔÇÖ any rules we have set.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Sergeant Kai, was there anything else you wanted to mention in your sightings underneath the city?ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Well, there is one more thingÔǪÔÇØ I say. The Elves will be outraged."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Choose yer words carefully, boy,ÔÇØ King Grossel warns."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"I donÔÇÖt plan to say anything about the Aerkin arena. ThatÔÇÖs a one-way ticket of getting permanently blacklisted by the Dwarves."},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Let the boy speak.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Cascabel were selling Slave Collars, Slave Remotes, andÔǪwellÔǪtwo female Elves at the auction.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"Gasps resound from the Humans and Elves. "},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Is your intention to instigate a war with us, King Grossel?!ÔÇØ the Elven king exclaims. ÔÇ£You neglected to mention these details in your report.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Dis be new ter me tew,ÔÇØ King Grossel says. ÔÇ£Ay dun oversee de auction directly.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Ludicrous. Your underlings run the auction.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Ma officers be nae required ter report every wee dinÔÇÖ ter me. three oÔÇÖ dem runs the de auction, and it juss happened dis morn.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£So, after learning of this, you still believe it is something to make light of?ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Basically. WhaÔÇÖ be de big deal? We weor nae de ones sellinÔÇÖ de slaves.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£That is impertinent. Officers under your supervision sanctioned the sale to occur. King Diell, you side with the Dwarves on this? I thought we reached a mutual understanding eight months ago.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Dun be cryinÔÇÖ ter de Humans nigh. Dae have known abart Human slave trade anÔÇÖ have nae made a fuss abart it. I guess ye Elves be special.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Do not think "},{"attributes":{"color":"black","italic":true},"insert":"you "},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"are special. It is pellucid as day that you have blackmailed the Humans. Why else do you not trade Mithril with them, albeit they had favored you greatly when the races converged here a decennium ago? You are the only race to receive particularly favored treatment and receive an exclusive underground territory.ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"┬á"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"black"},"insert":"ÔÇ£Dare be nae blackmail. We juss have a mutual understandinÔÇÖ, dats all. We traded wiff de Xog ÔÇÿcuz we share de same philosophy: only the strong shouÔÇÖ rule,ÔÇØ King Grossel says and then laughs. ÔÇ£If ya want ter talk abart blackmail, be dat nae whaÔÇÖ ye be doinÔÇÖ roight nigh by referrinÔÇÖ ter eight monfs ago?ÔÇØ"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attri