link Shez volume_up
In that case, you should just keep picking commoners like me for all the important jobs.
link Shez volume_up
Strength in numbers, right? The more of us there are, the less anyone will be able to complain.
link Hubert volume_up
Hm. I believe your point to be a sound one, but putting it into action will only heighten our chance of failure.
link Hubert volume_up
Try as you may to trawl a river for jewels, you will most often find yourself hauling up mere pebbles instead.
link Shez volume_up
I get what you mean...I think. Accidentally picking the wrong person could really hurt the emperor's reputation.
link Hubert volume_up
And provide the perfect opening for nobles who want nothing more than for commoners to be "kept in their place."
link Hubert volume_up
An utter disgrace. Here we stand amidst the flames of war, yet some on our side only seek to drag their compatriots down.
link Hubert volume_up
There is no rot as fetid as that which plagues our foul aristocracy. It would not surprise me if they breathed noxious fumes.
link Shez volume_up
I mean, it's not like they're literally poisonous.
link Hubert volume_up
Are you so sure? Spend an hour in the same room with some of them and see if you don't feel the life being choked out of you.
link Shez volume_up
Yeah, I guess they are pretty bad when you put it that way.
link Hubert volume_up
At any rate, it seems you must be the one to plow forward for the time being.
link Shez volume_up
Uh, come again?
link Hubert volume_up
You are a mercenary captain, no? Surely there are worthy candidates for promotion among your subordinates?
link Hubert volume_up
The situation would be far less volatile if any potential appointees came with your direct endorsement.
link Shez volume_up
Oh good, no pressure at all. And if the person I pick doesn't work out?
link Hubert volume_up
Assuming they are not wholly indefensible, we would do our utmost to shield them from criticism.
link Hubert volume_up
Though I suppose if worst came to worst, we would be forced to sever ties with them...and you.
link Shez volume_up
That's cold-blooded, Hubert. I'm not sure I'm up to the challenge, knowing what's at risk.
link Hubert volume_up
Nobody is forcing you to pick someone. If you think it impossible, I will not try to convince you otherwise.
link Shez volume_up
I can respect that. Protecting the emperor is priority number one.
link Hubert volume_up
Indeed, it is the first and only priority. Do note, though, you needn't force yourself to pick someone if you fear the consequences.
link Shez volume_up
Right, got it.
link Shez volume_up
I guess in the meantime, I'll let you know if I think of anyone who might be able to handle the job.
link Shez volume_up
Oh, and let's keep the whole "severing ties" thing to the real worst case scenario, OK?
link Shez volume_up
You might look the calm and logical type, but I know your emotions can get the better of you sometimes.
link Hubert volume_up
...
link Hubert volume_up
A keener insight than I expected. Perhaps you truly are the right person for this task.
link Hubert volume_up
Heh. Quite the eye you have on you.
link Shez volume_up
Uh, thanks? My vision's not too bad, I guess.
link Hubert volume_up
Now if you could only pair it with some intellect, we would have a true wonder on our hands.