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You seem to be staring at me, Yuri. What's wrong?
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Just thinking how odd it is that you've grown so accustomed to a town like this.
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Well, I like this place and its people.
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There may be a few vagabonds in the darker alleys. That just shows how accepting everyone is.
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They all greet me with smiles, despite my being a complete stranger to them.
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Oh, they'd change their tune pretty quickly if they knew you were the king.
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Anyway, have you enjoyed your little tour of this garbage heap? Did you get a look at the town through my eyes or whatever it is you wanted?
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Yes, and it's also got me thinking about how best to help those of more meager standing.
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Originally, I'd thought that establishing medical facilities or investing in the church were the best pathways to this cause.
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But after seeing the people here, I realize they are not indigents standing around with open hands awaiting salvation.
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I'd love to unpack your definition of "indigent," but yes, they certainly don't take things lying down.
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Maybe it's idealistic, but I think regents should rule in a way that not just nobles, but everyone, can see as reasonable.
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But to accomplish that, a ruler must take the opportunity to truly listen to the people.
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Of course, I can't go around visiting every burg and hamlet personally. I realize this.
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But I still feel this is the key to true reform.
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Well, good on you if you actually manage to accomplish that, but it isn't going to be easy.
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First, you have to give the poor a minimum level of education.
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Of course, they're already fully capable of telling you when they're hungry or if taxes are too high...
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But they'll need education to understand the policies and laws established by their lords and hold any kind of thoughtful opinion on them.
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Education, you say? Yes, that makes a great deal of sense.
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Problem is, people aren't in the mood to learn anything when they don't know where their next meal is coming from or where they'll sleep that night.
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Right. Improving quality of life is first and foremost— education can be built upon that.
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Sadly, none of this will be cheap—and the current war is doing a fine job of draining our coffers.
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Which means I need to end it as soon as possible.
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So the main problem comes down to money, huh? In that case, why not make use of us?
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If you need funds, I can introduce you to a wealthy merchant or three. And if you need to get some dirty work done, I can lend you a few of my men.
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All we need in exchange is for you to provide us a little bit of support.
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I'll not permit you to work evil in my name.
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Besides which, tales of how you and your band have eaten lords out of house and home are legend.
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But you're a different matter entirely, Your Majesty. If we join forces, my dream is sure to be realized.
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I swear to never allow you to fall victim to any vile practices. You have my honest word on that.
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And what is this dream of yours?
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I'll tell you about it in due time. But for now, Your Majesty, do you accept my proposal?
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I will consider it. After spending time together, I've come to want to trust you.
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I promise it'll be the best decision you ever make. But until then, I'll patiently await your reply.