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