Meeting the wanderer

[Anastasia]

Jarem gets up without comment, exiting the room.

[Iron Dragoon]

"I... was hoping for some feedback on my development and our alliance. I feel like... I'm a little lost, and I haven't really offered much to you so far."

[Anastasia]

"It's as you say," Here the Red Knight shakes her head, "But I am patient. Not every investment immediately returns dividends. To grow more, I suggest conflict and battle - such things strengthen you and provide you the resources you need. Often a battle avoided is a battle won, but in your position you need the seasoning."

[Iron Dragoon]

"Hmm... Well, that will likely soon happen no matter what I choose, one way or another. After we make whatever move we need to, we'll need funds. That usually means battle."

[Anastasia]

"Then find those battles and triumph," the Red Knight agrees, "Prove your intelligence and prove your might."

[Iron Dragoon]

Alyssa nods.

"Thank you for your time. I know you're busy and getting this meeting on short notice took a lot from Jarem. He's doing an excellent job at his assignment; he does himself and you credit."

[Anastasia]

"He prays for you," The Red Knight responds with a ghost of a smile, "For me to guide you and show you divine wisdom and forethought. He prays for me to bring you victory with the might of your own two hands."

[Iron Dragoon]

"Well, I suppose I can't hold it against him, considering I asked for the same. I will ask you if there's anything you want me to look into. I'd like to accomplish something for you."

[Anastasia]

"I will remember that," the Red Knight agrees, "But get your house in order first. I can wait."

[Iron Dragoon]

Alyssa nods.

"Thank you for the time."

[Anastasia]

Thus you find Jarem waiting outside, "So you're still hot property?" he asks with a faint smile, "That help you make up your mind?"

[Iron Dragoon]

Alyssa frowns.

"It still grates. My whole life went into the Order and now I have to just leave."

[Anastasia]

"Yeah." Jarem smiles and adds, "I had to do the same thing. When it was all over, they were talking about King Jarem." With a rather tight smile, "I could go back home and be crowned on the spot. It wasn't what I wanted. So...ultimately, here I am instead."

[Iron Dragoon]

"There's an interesting thought experiment: how would a kingdom of scoundrels ever get anything done?"

[Anastasia]

Smiling at that, "You tell me. You're the scoundrel. I'm the pious and upright cleric of the Red Knight."