• ANATAEUS VAYA: The player and protagonist. A graduate of the Imperial University in the field of alchemy.
  
• HENLEY SERVIN: A classmate of VAYA in University.
  
• CONCORDIA LEM: The provisioner for House Van Tassen, and a friend of VAYA.
  
• ARMAND VAN TASSEN: The patriarch of House Van Tassen.
  
• FREDERICK VAN TASSEN: (only mentioned; never speaks) The grandson of ARMAND VAN TASSEN, and heir to House Van Tassen.
  
• CAPTAIN GELT: Head of security for House Van Tassen.
  
• TAROS COLVAN: The patriarch of House Colvan.
  
• VERRIN RAVARI: Alchemist for House Colvan.
  
• NILS WHITTLE: A thief.
  
• CLARA SORIA: A member of the Soria family of House Soria.

HENLEY SERVIN: I'm amazed you put off learning how to use the transmutation engine for this long.
ANATAEUS VAYA: I was concentrating on working by hand! You know that.
SERVIN: Anataeus, we're about to graduate.
VAYA: I know. That's why I need you to summarize all this for me as fast as you can.

puzzle

SERVIN: Understand so far?
VAYA: Of course. I knew this part was easy. That's why I never worried about it.
SERVIN: I count you as a friend, Anataeus, but sometimes you carry your "genius alchemist" act a little too far...
VAYA: Act?

SERVIN: So let's take the first and most important part: the arm.
VAYA: I understand. What's next?
SERVIN: Wait, don't rush ahead. Let me go through the material. You need to see this.

puzzle

VAYA: Right, so arms pick up and move elemental proxies around the surface of the transmutation machine.
SERVIN: Right. And you control their behavior--
VAYA: --with instructions, yes. Of course.
SERVIN: Of course.

SERVIN: In some cases, you'll want an arm to rotate what it's gripping--
VAYA: You mean, as opposed to the arm itself rotating.
SERVIN: That's right. In those cases, you'll use pivot instructions.

puzzle

VAYA: All very straightforward and simple.
SERVIN: How nice that this is so easy for you.
VAYA: Why, how long did it take you to learn all this?
SERVIN: Let's just keep going.

SERVIN: A piston arm is a special kind of arm that can extend and retract.
VAYA: And presumably there are instructions that control the piston?
SERVIN: That's right. I'll demonstrate.

puzzle

VAYA: I see. Piston arms can reach areas you can't with a normal arm.
SERVIN: That's what makes them so useful! They cost a little more than regular arms, though.
VAYA: And I can use the reset instruction to make an arm return to its initial state from wherever it is. That's convenient.
SERVIN: Just remember the reset instruction takes the same amount of time it would take to issue those individual instructions.
VAYA: Well, yes, of course it will.
SERVIN: Of course.

VAYA: What's next?
SERVIN: Next we have tracks, which are like paths you can place on the board. It's easier to show you...

puzzle

VAYA: I see. When you place an arm on a track, the arm can move forward or backward along the path.
SERVIN: Tracks can be quite powerful, but I'm still learning how to use them effectively in my designs.
VAYA: Could you put multiple arms onto a single track?
SERVIN: I think so? I never thought to try that...
VAYA: I'll have to experiment later.

SERVIN: To perform transmutations, we use glyphs. For example, say I want to calcify an element--
VAYA: You'd place a glyph of calcification on the board and move the element you want to calcify over it.
SERVIN: Anataeus! I mean-- yes, that's correct, but at least let me get through the explanation first!
VAYA: I got all the explanation I needed.

puzzle

VAYA: It's quite fast, this glyph.
SERVIN: Yes, welcome to modern alchemical engineering.
VAYA: How many transmutations are available as glyphs?
SERVIN: Most of the common ones, so far. There's ongoing research to develop more, which you would know about if you paid any attention to recent developments in your field.

VAYA: This must be the glyph of bonding.
SERVIN: It is. To use it-- actually, why don't you show me how it works. Seems that's the way things are going here.
VAYA: Very well.

puzzle

VAYA: The transmutation engine makes alchemical engineering far simpler.
SERVIN: You could have been using it the whole time!
VAYA: But I'm glad I did things the hard way for so long.
SERVIN: I hope you're not like this in real life, Anataeus.
VAYA: Hm? But this is real life.

SERVIN: I think that's everything you need to know to use the transmutation engine effectively.
VAYA: I'll make one more product to make sure I get it.

puzzle

SERVIN: So what are your plans after you graduate?
VAYA: I think I'll be a Head Alchemist for one of the August Houses.
SERVIN: That's-- bold. Right out of school?
VAYA: Why not?
SERVIN: True enough. No ambition could be too great for you...
VAYA: And yourself?
SERVIN: I like it here. I think I'll stick around and hopefully become a professor.
VAYA: You do seem to have an affinity for teaching.
SERVIN: Think so? Well then, may each of us realize his opus magnum!
VAYA: Opus magnum... I've always found that to be a rather pretentious term, but I agree with the sentiment, at least. Why are you laughing?
SERVIN: Anataeus Vaya found something pretentious? Tell me more...

CONCORDIA LEM: So how did it go?
VAYA: A nightmare. Armand kept going through his old stories about honor and righteousness. The Lady Van Tassen looks like she's embalmed. Frederick spilled food down the front of his shirt.
LEM: What a brave man you are, surviving a formal dinner!
VAYA: It really is difficult, though. I can't stand the stuffiness. Armand didn't remember my name. Captain Gelt had to prompt him several times.
LEM: To be fair, you started only rather recently.
VAYA: Yes, I suppose it's too much to ask. Such a complicated, burdensome thing, to remember one single name, the name of your new Alchemist. The one who graduated at the top of his class from the College of Alchemical Engineering...
LEM: Anataeus--
VAYA: See! You remember my name just fine.
LEM: Think Armand would know my name? Keeping in mind I've been here my whole life.
VAYA: Maybe next time you can go in my place! He might not even realize it's a different person.
LEM: "Hnnngh, Alchemist... Provisioner... which were you again? Mm, yes, hnnnngh..."
VAYA: You'll get us in trouble.
LEM: I've been doing this for years.

VAYA: Well, this is an odd first project. I feel like someone's having a laugh at my expense.
LEM: Why, were you asked to create the Philosopher's Stone?
VAYA: Close, actually. One more guess.
LEM: Transform lead into gold?
VAYA: Yes. Apparently there's an old Van Tassen lead mine, and wouldn't it be better if it produced gold instead? Armand suggested it, so casually...
LEM: Sounds wonderful. Time to put your University degree to the test!

puzzle

VAYA: "Can you make lead into gold?" I can scarcely believe it...
LEM: Well, at least it's finished with now.
VAYA: Like asking a fish if it can swim!
LEM: You're taking this remarkably poorly, Anataeus.
VAYA: I was expecting a challenge, that's all.
LEM: Sounds like you want a chance to show off.
VAYA: I'm not sure I'd go that far.

VAYA: Have you seen the Lady Van Tassen recently?
LEM: A few days ago. Why?
VAYA: Did you notice how pale her face is?
LEM: Oh, she's well known for her pallor. Why, did someone ask you to do something about it?
VAYA: Armand himself did. It seems it's ♥♥♥♥♥♥ worse lately. People are whispering about her health.
LEM: That's unfortunate. The Lady hasn't had an easy time of things. I'd hate to see her slandered on top of it all.

puzzle

VAYA: This should help the Lady's face look less pale. Though it's quite a superficial solution.
LEM: Who can really say what troubles the Lady Van Tassen? It's not for us to know.
VAYA: Have you ever heard her speak? She didn't say a word during the dinner I went to.
LEM: I remember her speaking to me once or twice when I was a child.
VAYA: Odd. Just another one of the many Van Tassen mysteries, I suppose.
LEM: One gets used to them after a while.

VAYA: Do you know much about ships, Concordia?
LEM: Our merchant fleet delivers goods from overseas about once a month. Why?
VAYA: Captain Gelt told me they used to have some kind of substance they put on the hulls so they didn't rot.
LEM: I don't know anything about it. Have you ever been on a ship?
VAYA: I haven't, no. You?
LEM: Not at all. It sounds ghastly! Being tossed around on the ocean, then getting eaten by sea monsters.
VAYA: I'm not sure all sea voyages are like that.
LEM: Enough of them are.

puzzle

VAYA: With this sealant ready, the fleet should soon be ready to set sail again and bring back-- well, whatever it brings.
LEM: They're loaded with all kinds of things. Cloth, pottery, mineral ores, rare herbs, strange stones. Sometimes even animals.
VAYA: Sounds like a good business.
LEM: I'm not sure. Those contracts were drawn up centuries ago. I doubt even Armand knows the details.

VAYA: If I'd known I was to be tasked with curing a hangover...
LEM: Oh, I bet I know who asked you for that. It was Captain Gelt, wasn't it?
VAYA: How'd you guess?
LEM: It would be good for him to be at least somewhat functional in the mornings.
VAYA: Yes, seems prudent for the head of security for the entire House to not be totally incapacitated on a regular basis.
LEM: Let's not go too far.

puzzle

LEM: There are days when I could use such a cure myself.
VAYA: Here, have some.
LEM: What? This isn't for me Anataeus. If you get caught--
VAYA: It's fine. There's a secret. My amazing hangover cure... is water!
LEM: Just plain water?
VAYA: Captain Gelt has no idea, but apparently he loves it. Works wonders, he says.
LEM: That's rather funny. Also, I'll never trust an alchemist again.
VAYA: You shouldn't.

VAYA: Captain Gelt asked for something to put in the Van Tassen airship. Apparently it's out of fuel?
LEM: Oh, that old thing...
VAYA: First time I've heard someone say "that old thing" in reference to an airship...
LEM: The last time I remember the airship actually in the air was the celebration for Frederick's birth.
VAYA: Clearly Frederick disappointed his grandfather so much they never took it out again.
LEM: Ha. More likely it's simply been out of fuel this whole time.
VAYA: The whole time? Are you serious?
LEM: After the old Head Alchemist died we had an "interim" one for a while who was... not great.

puzzle

VAYA: Simple enough. Now the Van Tassen airship can take to the skies again!
LEM: Sure, as long as we can find someone to pilot it.
VAYA: Doesn't seem too complicated. How about me?
LEM: How about Captain Gelt? Or Frederick?
VAYA: That's a disturbing thought... maybe we should pretend the airship is still out of fuel.

VAYA: Oh dear. Oh dear.
LEM: What is it now?
VAYA: Apparently Armand arranged for Frederick to go on a date with a young lady from another House.
LEM: Oh dear.
VAYA: And now I have to make some machine oil.
LEM: You... what?
VAYA: For the observatory. Frederick tried to take her there, but everything was rusted solid.
LEM: Of course.
VAYA: Even better? Clara, the young lady, is from House Soria. He was probably hoping to prove our observatory is just as good as theirs.
LEM: Oh, she must've been tremendously impressed all around.

puzzle

VAYA: Well, Frederick's dates at the observatory ought to go better now. Maybe he and Clara could have a do-over.
LEM: I don't think it works like that.
VAYA: Do you see any other choices?
LEM: For Clara Soria? I believe House Colvan has a young man around Frederick's age.
VAYA: Maybe that's what Armand is trying to prevent, no?
LEM: Quite likely. Pity he has only Frederick to work with.
VAYA: One can only play the game with the pieces one has.

LEM: Seeing your transmutation engine in action is giving me fond memories of playing Sigmar's Garden.
VAYA: Sigmar's what?
LEM: You never played Sigmar's Garden? I thought everyone knew this game. You put the marbles in a certain pattern, and--
VAYA: Marbles?
LEM: Isn't that what these are?
VAYA: They're elemental proxies! Glass spheres that represent various types of atoms.
LEM: Little glass spheres are commonly known as marbles.
VAYA: We never call them marbles.
LEM: To anyone who's not a highly trained alchemist, that's what they are. Now, why don't you give Sigmar's Garden a try?
VAYA: Fine, I suppose.

VAYA: Do you know exactly how old Armand is?
LEM: Both he and the Lady are rather advanced in age.
VAYA: And Frederick is the only possible heir?
LEM: As Armand's only surviving grandson, he would be difficult to oppose. There are some other claimants from distant branches of the family, but they're weak. What brought this on?
VAYA: Promise not to tell anyone, but I was asked to make a tonic to assist in regulating an irregular heartbeat.
LEM: Oh, Armand... hopefully he's set up everything for an orderly succession of power after he's gone.
VAYA: Let's not get too ahead of ourselves. I do intend to keep him healthy.

puzzle

VAYA: There, that should do it. One healthy-ish patriarch for the House Van Tassen, as ordered.
LEM: Long live the patriarch Armand!
VAYA: Yeah, long live, I guess.
LEM: You don't seem particularly enthusiastic.
VAYA: I do think it's good if he stays alive. After all, he pays for everything around here.
LEM: You'd do well to show a little more appreciation for your House.

VAYA: "A little boost at the necessary time."
LEM: What are you on about?
VAYA: "A little boost at the necessary time," is how he put it...
LEM: Who put what?
VAYA: Armand is worried about Frederick.
LEM: Rightly so, I would say.
VAYA: Particularly: He wonders if Frederick will be able to produce an heir.
LEM: I-- oh.
VAYA: I'm about to make a potion that will...
LEM: ... give him a boost at the necessary time, I get it. That's not so unusual, really. Stamina potions have long been used for such purposes.
VAYA: It's not making it that's the issue for me. It's thinking about it.
LEM: You should know better than to use your imagination in cases like this.

puzzle

VAYA: I hope Frederick enjoys that potion... ugh. Armand must believe Frederick's marriage is close at hand.
LEM: Really? Really? Will it be the young lady from House Soria?
VAYA: I was just speculating.
LEM: How exciting! The city would celebrate for days. The union of House Van Tassen and House Soria...
VAYA: As Provisioner, you'd have a lot of work to do.
LEM: Yes, but it would be for a wedding! It would be quite fun.
VAYA: You arrange the party in the streets, I arrange the party in the sheets.
LEM: Oh dear.
VAYA: Yes. Well.

Alchemist's Workshop, House Van Tassen

LEM: That's when I decided we needed to re-inventory everything in the building. You should have seen the look on Armand's face!
VAYA: Mm...
LEM: Anataeus, are you paying attention?
VAYA: Hm?
LEM: That answers that question.
VAYA: What?
LEM: You're moping.
VAYA: I am not moping. I am merely... moodily dejected.
LEM: And what has the great alchemist of House Van Tassen so moodily dejected?
VAYA: Nothing. I mean, I'm thinking about why I'm here.
LEM: You're here because you're our Alchemist.
VAYA: I mean in the larger sense...
CAPTAIN GELT: (enters) The alchemist is here, isn't he?
VAYA: Captain Gelt, what can I do for you?
GELT: Your presence is required in the main hall. It's a matter of some urgency.
LEM: What happened?
GELT: An aggressive move from another House has taken us by surprise... we need to respond immediately.
VAYA: My alchemy is at your disposal.
LEM: You sound almost excited.
VAYA: I am! Finally, something significant is happening!

The Greathall, House Van Tassen

ARMAND VAN TASSEN: House Colvan? That's unfortunate. I will have to lodge a formal protest.
VAYA: Shall I begin developing weapons for a counterattack? Something like a flame grenade with--
GELT: I doubt that will be necessary. It's not uncommon for Houses to renegotiate territories this way.
VAYA: But... they've taken over multiple buildings of ours without any resistance...
GELT: They'll stop pushing forward soon and attempt to reinforce the new borders. That's how it goes with this sort of thing.
VAN TASSEN: We should push back at least a little bit. We wouldn't want to look weak, after all.
GELT: I'll execute a limited rearguard action with forces stationed in the area.
VAYA: That's... that's all?
GELT: Listen. House Colvan doesn't want a full-on battle any more than we do. We'll trade a few streets and that should be the end of it.
VAN TASSEN: I believe young Taros Colvan is the head of that family now... likely he is keen to test our response. I will send a message to him and we will settle this like honorable Houses.
GELT: Taros? He was a bright boy...
VAN TASSEN: Yes. I'm sure he'll listen to reason.


VAYA: This is not the best use of my time.
GELT: The patriarch has personally requested it.
VAYA: That doesn't change anything.
GELT: As heir, Frederick must make a public appearance in the battle. Otherwise, it may be a problem for the family's honor.
VAYA: I get that part. It's the part about his hair needing to be styled perfectly that I don't understand. This is a war!
GELT: Precisely, that's why his hair gel needs to be extra strong.
VAYA: Do you even understand what I'm saying right now?
LEM: This is how the Houses work, Anataeus. The way things look is very important. Maybe even more important than the way things are.
VAYA: I'm starting to learn that, yes.

puzzle

VAYA: This ought to keep Frederick's hair solidly in place, even if he wanders into a cyclone.
GELT: Excellent, I'll have this sent to his personal staff immediately.
VAYA: Here's hoping his well-styled hair helps him in the battle.
GELT: He won't enter the fight, that would be madness! He just needs to be out in the street for a little while so people see him.
VAYA: Will he make a little speech or something?
LEM: Probably best if he doesn't.
GELT: He will hold up his sword. That should be enough to inspire the soldiers.
VAYA: I'll take your word for it.

VAYA: Shouldn't they have stayed their attack by now?
GELT: Hm... perhaps they need a little more prompting.
LEM: I had the rockets brought out of storage, but much of the propellant has leaked away.
VAYA: When was the last time they were used?
GELT: Long before either of you were born.
VAYA: Well, it's no problem. I'll just make a new propellant. I'm certain that'll be more powerful than what you had before anyway.
LEM: Aren't we sanguine today.

puzzle

VAYA: I'm eager to see how the rockets perform.
GELT: The din and smoke is always quite a sight. A rocket barrage should give them a good fright!
LEM: I hope it convinces them to stop advancing.
GELT: Oh yes, they'll regret not stopping earlier.
VAYA: It's taking us this long to organize this response.
GELT: But! Now that we have, the full might of House Van Tassen will bear down on them. That will put a stop to their advance.

VAYA: Wait. The airship dock is lost now too? I thought we were pushing them back!
GELT: It seems they're moving quite fast... faster than we anticipated.
VAYA: This is absurd. Don't we outnumber them?
GELT: We do, but--
VAYA: If this keeps happening, won't we lose the war?
GELT: Come, now. It's hardly a war.
VAYA: Then what is it?
GELT: I've explained it. It's best understood as--- say, a kind of diplomacy.
VAYA: This is absurd! I'll do it, then. I'll ensure that House Colvan regrets every building they take.

puzzle

VAYA: These phials contain a vapor that makes areas inaccessible for a time.
GELT: A mist of poison?
VAYA: It won't be fatal.
GELT: Not very honorable. I doubt Armand would be pleased.
VAYA: Do you have better ideas? We've been struggling to catch up this whole time!
GELT: Nonsense. We're making a good show of our defense while we wait for House Colvan to respond to our message. A truce will be negotiated soon enough.
VAYA: Won't the terms be more favorable if we push back harder?
GELT: The terms will be favorable either way. Armand is a master negotiator. It's how he built this House into what it is today.

VAYA: I've got an idea for a new weapon-- something simple that even the House staff could use.
GELT: The staff? Those who haven't been bestowed a sword certainly shouldn't be given any other weapons.
VAYA: But what if House Colvan doesn't stand down? What if our soldiers can't hold the line against them?
GELT: You're being foolish. A message will arrive any moment now.
VAYA: You keep saying that, and yet--
GELT: Besides, if there is fighting indoors, the damage to the property would be extremely unfortunate.
VAYA: If Colvan breach the perimeter, won't the consequences be much worse?

puzzle

VAYA: There, a phial of fire. Able to be thrown by anyone-- even those with no training!
LEM: I can't imagine the Captain enjoying that thought.
VAYA: Oh, no, he absolutely hates the idea.
LEM: Then why pursue it?
VAYA: Shouldn't we take every possible measure to ensure our victory?
LEM: Are you sure this improves our chances?
VAYA: I don't know. Maybe not. I feel like I have to try everything.
LEM: You're very enthusiastic, at least.


LEM: Captain, what are you doing in that ancient armor?
GELT: Isn't it obvious? I must lay down my life in battle. I have to take responsibility for this situation somehow...
LEM: But that's such an old set! We should get you something more up to date from the armor.
GELT: No, no. If I must be seen on the streets, I want to look like the heroes of old.
LEM: The first rocket would be your end!
VAYA: If you insist on this set, let me at least reinforce it with some armor filament.

puzzle

GELT: There may yet be hope. Perhaps I will single-handedly turn the tide of the battle.
VAYA: I suppose anything is possible.
GELT: What circumstances. A total offensive like this hasn't happened in generations. Centuries!
VAYA: And yet here we are.
GELT: I swore to defend House Van Tassen for life... I thought that would be a very long time...
LEM: No matter what happens, you will be remembered, Captain.

GELT: Perhaps the Colvan message was mistaken...
VAYA: I wouldn't assume it was.
GELT: It could still be retracted! An error sent by a scribe or page... the wrong letter sent...
LEM: I'm sorry to say I think that rather unlikely.
VAYA: Stay here a little while longer, Captain. I'll make you a potion of courage. Something to inflame your blood with the fighting spirit.
GELT: Thank you, Anataeus. That's kind of you.

puzzle

LEM: Do you think the courage potion will work? It seems difficult to contradict the habits of a lifetime.
VAYA: It will, after a fashion. The potion I gave him is mostly alcohol.
LEM: Glad to see you haven't lost your willingness to toy with the poor Captain, even in these dire straits.
VAYA: It's not toying. Not this time. If honor demands that he lay down his life, I want him to feel comfortable, at least, and most like himself.
LEM: That's touching, in an odd sort of way.


VAYA: That's the end of it.
LEM: Gelt made his sacrifice, the soldiers are fleeing, and I have word from Armand himself that we're to change the signal light on the tower to pale green. Armand is better at treaties than he is at battles. There's hope yet after the surrender.
VAYA: I hate this. I did everything I could! If it hadn't been for Captain Gelt's tepid strategies. And Armand's stubborn insistence on keeping "honor." And Frederick's inability to do anything...
LEM: But the future remains to be seen.
VAYA: We were defeated so easily! I can't believe this! I got here just a few months ago, and the first major event is our surrender to another House?
LEM: I've been here my whole life and have never witnessed something like this.

puzzle

VAYA: So what's supposed to happen now?
LEM: I'm not sure. We have negotiations?
VAYA: Useless.
LEM: Negotiations aren't useless.
VAYA: No, I mean I'm useless. What good is my skill if I couldn't change anything? Why did I go through the trouble?
LEM: Now's not the time for a big, philosophical, soul-searching reverie.
VAYA: You're right, of course.

The Greathall, House Van Tassen

TAROS COLVAN: Ha! Weaklings. You were right, Verrin. Nothing to be afraid of after all.
VERRIN RAVARI: As I expected. House Van Tassen strayed from the path for too long. And we were the agents of correction. Now all that remains is to negotiate the terms-- not that they have much of a bargaining position.
COLVAN: Negotiations are boring...
RAVARI: They're still necessary.
COLVAN: What if we just... killed them all?
RAVARI: That strikes me as a little extreme.
COLVAN: I hate the idea of this ancient weak family hanging around even after we've won. They'll stick around, begging for our scraps, waxing on about the old days. It poses a risk. And you told me yourself, Verrin, that the old ways were due for a change.
RAVARI: I did, yes--
COLVAN: You're not afraid, are you? Easy enough for you to propose the idea of attacking, but when it comes time to follow all the way through...
RAVARI: I am absolutely not afraid! If you believe that eliminating the Van Tassen line is the right choice, then I will follow.
COLVAN: Verrin, you consider yourself clever. But just because you're the House alchemist doesn't mean you can place your ideas over mine. Understand?
RAVARI: Of course, Taros.
COLVAN: Follow me.

Abandoned Tailor Shop, The Downriver Quarters

LEM: I wish we had gone back...
VAYA: It was clear there was no choice for us.
LEM: How I wish we could have, though! If at least Frederick had survived, there would be some small hope the Van Tassen line could continue.
VAYA: It's too late for that. We should be thinking about what to do next.
LEM: There's nothing next! Don't you understand? Nobody will want to risk dealing with us. We'll live the rest of our miserable lives in hiding. I should have gone back and died with them.
VAYA: Concordia...
LEM: Aren't you mad, too?
VAYA: Mad? I... I don't know. I'm not sure we deserve anything else after how poorly we--- how poorly I defended the House. My career as an alchemist is in ruins. What a worthless pursuit this has turned out to be! Maybe it would be better to forget it all...
LEM: Listen, Anataeus. Do what you want, but I know the only next step for me is revenge. I don't know yet how I'll achieve it, but that's the purpose of my life now.
VAYA: Is that another of the "ways of the Houses"? Honor, treachery, swearing revenge?
LEM: No. This is about me wanting to put a dagger through the heart of those Colvan wretches. How could they be so heartless?
VAYA: Concordia...
LEM: I'm going to step outside. I know it's dangerous, but I need a very long walk.
VAYA: Wait, Concordia.
LEM: What?
VAYA: I was just going to say... that... well, whatever it is we decide to do, we'll definitely need supplies for the transmutation engine first. I'll come with you.


VAYA: Before you ask, no, this gin is not because I am taking things poorly. It's for alchemy.
LEM: I wasn't about to ask.
VAYA: It's a rather brilliant scheme, actually! I'm going to isolate individual elements from the alcohol. It's essentially the reverse of the process I used earlier, when--
LEM: Anataeus?
VAYA: Yes?
LEM: Don't ever give up alchemy.

puzzle

VAYA: This is definitely doing things the hard way. But, oddly, it's kind of fun.
LEM: Good thing there's plenty of cheap alcohol to be found around here.
VAYA: Unfortunately, alcohol only gets us part of the way. We need base metals, too.
LEM: Securing a large quantity of metal without raising questions? That'll be far more difficult.
VAYA: We'll have to come up with some kind of plan.
LEM: I have some ideas.

LEM: Is that a glass of water from the river?
VAYA: How'd you guess?
LEM: The lovely gray color was the giveaway. You weren't going to drink it, were you?
VAYA: We're going to need water if we're to remain here for the time being...
LEM: I know you've never been in this part of the city before, but, really. Look at that.
VAYA: Right. Well, then, I'll fix it.

puzzle

VAYA: There. Care for a sip?
LEM: Why doesn't the great alchemist sample his own work?
VAYA: Because I'm sure it's right.
LEM: What a coincidence! I'm sure it's right, too.
VAYA: Your'e no fun at all. Well, here I go...
LEM: Well?
VAYA: It's fine! Water. Slightly... sour.
LEM: Sour.
VAYA: Somewhat bitter, too. It will have to do for now. I'm going to get back to work.

Abandoned Tailor Shop, The Downriver Quarters

VAYA: Do we have a deal?
NILS WHITTLE: It's an intriguing proposal. But the old Van Tassen compound is far more difficult to get into now that Colvan occupies it. Their guards are far more vigilant.
VAYA: Believe me, we know. Concordia and I barely escaped with our lives.
WHITTLE: Just get me inside. I can take it from there.
LEM: It's a little more complicated than that. The item we need isn't something you can carry on your person. It's a shipment.
VAYA: Specifically, a shipment of lead ore.
WHITTLE: I... see.
LEM: I'll supply you with a shipping order, but it needs a seal. You'll have to find a real order and take the seal from it.
WHITTLE: Okay. And then I suppose I'll impersonate a supply officer and simply take the shipment down the river to you.
LEM: Exactly!
WHITTLE: That's somewhat more... fanciful than I expected.
VAYA: On the contrary, it's as feasible as they come. Practically a walk in the park for someone of your caliber, right?
LEM: And don't forget we'll supply you with the best equipment you'll find anywhere.
VAYA: If I'm to make you this gold, I'll need the lead. That's how alchemy works, after all.
WHITTLE: Gold, yes. I do like a bit of gold.
VAYA: Pull this off, and you'll have more than just a bit. I promise you.

LEM: Affixing the seals to orders and invoices was always such a chore. The thought of undoing one is a little thrilling.
WHITTLE: Yes, what a bold and daring rebel you are now.
VAYA: The seals are complex, but the glue isn't. A weak point in this system.
WHITTLE: Surprising that hadn't been taken advantage of before.
LEM: Maybe it has been. The Van Tassen stocks were never very closely tracked. Armand didn't care much for details, I'm sorry to say.
WHITTLE: If nobody misses it, is it really stealing?
LEM: Spare me the philosophizing, please.

puzzle

WHITTLE: It seems a solvent like this would have applications well outside of the specific mission we've discussed...
VAYA: You can keep it.
WHITTLE: Wait. You're sure?
VAYA: I'm not planning a life of crime.
LEM: Just the one crime.
VAYA: One or two.
WHITTLE: Once you start down the road, it's hard to go back. Not that I've tried.

LEM: This is vexing. Were we still at House Van Tassen, I could supply you immediately with any length of rope. And in a variety of widths and colors, too.
WHITTLE: I hardly need anything so extravagant.
VAYA: I can make something better anyway.
LEM: You don't need to create everything, Anataeus.
VAYA: No, it's fine. I have an idea for how the fiber should work.
WHITTLE: It's possible the alchemist is rather enjoying himself.

puzzle

LEM: Who knew that creating robe fiber could be so fascinating?
WHITTLE: It's not something I imagine they teach at alchemy school.
VAYA: Strong and resilient, yet light and easy to carry... I say a better rope has never before been created!
WHITTLE: He's really quite absorbed.
VAYA: It's a shame most alchemists think work like this beneath them. Imagine how different the world would be if we applied ourselves to problems like this one.

LEM: This "warming potion" isn't just alcohol again, is it?
VAYA: No. Alcohol doesn't actually warm the body, it only creates the illusion of warmth.
WHITTLE: What's this you're talking about?
VAYA: It's a long story and nothing to concern yourself with.
LEM: He made alcohol for someone and called it a courage potion.
WHITTLE: And yet he still refuses to make alcohol for me?
VAYA: The man I made that alcohol for was preparing to fight to his death. You, on the other hand, are supposed to live.
WHITTLE: For a while yet, I should hope.

puzzle

WHITTLE: This tonic that keeps the body warm... if you don't mind, could you make some extras of this?
VAYA: What, are you trying to make a few extra guilder on the side?
WHITTLE: Not everything I do is for money. Do you have any idea how many people could use something like this?
VAYA: Oh... I understand.
WHITTLE: You people from the Houses can be so tremendously ignorant sometimes.
LEM: It's a shame we can't make more.
WHITTLE: You'd never make enough.

LEM: This seems rather unprecedented.
VAYA: It is. I'm exploring new frontiers in alchemy here.
WHITTLE: Dare I ask what the great alchemist is concocting now?
VAYA: Imagine yourself with an increased sensitivity to life. If a guard were standing in the next room, you could feel their presence. As a kind of pulse, or thump...
LEM: Sounds rather ghastly.
VAYA: But you'd be nigh-undetectable.
WHITTLE: I suppose I do enjoy the occasional unfair advantage.

puzzle

WHITTLE: If I were to use this and go to the market, would I collapse into a quivering heap of nerves?
VAYA: The effect is subtle, but you may want to avoid crowded areas while using it.
WHITTLE: You say this as though you've already tried it.
VAYA: My confidence and reasonable certainty isn't enough for you?
WHITTLE: Over the course of my life, I've learned that trust is not something to be given lightly...
LEM: Especially not to alchemists.
VAYA: That's a fine thing to say in the presence of a thief.

WHITTLE: This is a bit much. I feel as though I'm being suited up like a grenadier.
LEM: Stay still, or I won't get your measurements properly.
WHITTLE: Must you really outfit me this way?
VAYA: The more light you absorb, the easier it will be for you to blend into the shadows.
WHITTLE: I can already do that. You seem to underestimate my abilities.
VAYA: I want to leave nothing to chance.

puzzle

LEM: It's quite a striking look, don't you think?
WHITTLE: I'm a convert. I never thought I'd reach the heights of fashion like this.
VAYA: We should go into business as clothiers. I can hardly do much more alchemy in any case... we used the last of our quicksilver making that.
LEM: But that's a wonderful idea. I'll find us more looming and sewing supplies.
VAYA: Get us a mannequin, too.
LEM: Consider it done.
VAYA: Perfect.

Abandoned Tailor Shop, The Downriver Quarters

WHITTLE: Looks like it's time for me to go.
LEM: Good luck, Nils!
WHITTLE: You'll know I succeeded when a barge of lead ore floats down the river toward you. And I'll send instructions detailing where to send my share of the gold later.
LEM: You won't be returning here?
WHITTLE: No, I'm afraid I can't stay.
VAYA: So you do trust us, finally.
WHITTLE: A funny thing about that. When I first found the two of you hiding out in this abandoned shop, my first thought was to cut you both down as you slept and sell your personal effects.
LEM: Oh my... I'm glad you didn't.
WHITTLE: I'm just kidding. I would have collected only a pittance for your mediocre clothes, anyway.
VAYA: How touching.
LEM: I expect a more touching story couldn't be written.
VAYA: Safe travels, Nils. We'll be here for the time being, should you want to find us.
WHITTLE: I'm sure we'll run into each other again before long.

Abandoned Tailor Shop, The Downriver Quarters

LEM: You're sure you won't get in trouble? Hanging out in the bad part of town with a rogue alchemist?
CLARA SORIA: My parents don't know. I spend a lot of time in the Observatory and they always assume I'm there. Not as if they would check for themselves.
VAYA: It's a shame you never got to use Van Tassen's Observatory when you visited. I was tasked with fixing it right afterwards.
SORIA: That's okay. I still had a nice time.
VAYA: Even though you were with Frederick?
SORIA: Excuse me? I loved Frederick.
VAYA: You-- what?
SORIA: He was kind to me. Maybe the only one who's ever been. It was really nice spending time with him.
LEM: It's true that kindness is a rare trait in a House heir.
SORIA: I wish I could have protected him. He didn't deserve the world he was born into.
VAYA: None of us do.


SORIA: So this is raw lead ore.
LEM: You should have seen when we had cases and cases of gin around here.
SORIA: Why? To isolate individual elements from the alcohol?
VAYA: Yes, exactly.
SORIA: How resourceful of you.
LEM: That's a sharp deduction, Clara.
SORIA: I've always been interested in alchemy, but my mother says it's too dangerous for me to pursue. She thinks I'd explode the place.
VAYA: Alchemy is dangerous, but not in the way your mother thinks.

puzzle

VAYA: Extracting the essence of lead from ore... there's something no alchemist has had to do for centuries.
SORIA: Solving these ancient problems for yourself must be fascinating, though.
VAYA: Maybe.
SORIA: In a way, you're reinventing the field on your own.
VAYA: That's one way to look at it. For my part, I keep thinking I've traveled backward in time.
SORIA: What fun, though! Retracing the origins of alchemy.

SORIA: I don't suppose you have something that will get out a stain?
LEM: What happened?
SORIA: I just slipped a little on the way, and I don't want to give my parents any opportunity to be suspicious.
LEM: We can get that cleaned up like new, I'm sure.
VAYA: A stain remover? Now we're back to the old Van Tassen times. To think I was just getting so full of myself...

puzzle

SORIA: That worked surprisingly well. I imagine you could sell this solvent if you had a mind to go into business.
VAYA: Maybe we should. We've already had a good joke about becoming clothiers.
SORIA: How lovely, though. I'd go to you for all my couture.
LEM: All we need is that mannequin and we can open up shop right here.
VAYA: Yes, what a great location!
SORIA: This sort of thing is amusing to speak of in jest, but sometimes I do wish I could lead a simple life.
LEM: Perhaps one day you can.
SORIA: Oh, I rather doubt it.

VAYA: Finally, something a modern alchemist does!
LEM: You really think Taros will notice the quality of your sword?
SORIA: You should see the one our alchemist made for my brother. It's practically limp.
LEM: Really? I'd have thought House Soria would do better.
SORIA: A surprising number of our "treasures" are holdovers from our earlier days, when we only pretended to be an important House.
LEM: Now that you truly are one, though, you deserve better.

puzzle

VAYA: It's a shame I never got to do this for House Van Tassen. I dare say I would have been very good at it.
LEM: If everything had gone the way Armand wished it, you'd be making a sword for Clara anyway.
VAYA: That's true. I hadn't thought of that.
SORIA: It's a strange thing to consider. We'd know each other under very different circumstances.
VAYA: I might have assumed you were just another cosseted heir.
SORIA: And I would have thought you just another smug, self-important alchemist.
LEM: ...not that you're very far off on that account.

LEM: Are you truly comfortable with this artifice?
SORIA: Comfortable? I'll rather enjoy deceiving Taros... I just need to think of what to write. The language of love doesn't come naturally to me.
LEM: Me either. Those types of letters are the sort of thing I've only read about in old tales of romance.
SORIA: Well, how do the letters read in those tales?
LEM: It's all very overwrought and florid. Perhaps: "I can't bear not being with you, I'll die if I cannot have you, every breath I take is a sigh of wistful despair..."
SORIA: This is all very good, yes. I'll have to note these down.

puzzle

LEM: This is quite the stratagem.
SORIA: For someone like me, there's no choice but to pursue my ends this way.
LEM: You aren't afraid of the danger?
SORIA: Belonging to a House family is dangerous enough! It's those who feel their position is secure who don't see things clearly.
LEM: In world-weariness, you are well beyond your years.
SORIA: I do appreciate your concern, Concordia, but I know full well what I am doing.

LEM: I feel compelled to note that you're turning lead into gold again.
VAYA: You noticed. Yes, it seems the world is determined to taunt me.
SORIA: You're an alchemist, after all.
VAYA: So I've been informed.
SORIA: Is this a matter of some sensitivity to him?
LEM: Something about how he doesn't like being typecast, I believe.
VAYA: Lead into gold may as well be my parlor trick.
SORIA: At least this time you're doing it in the service of your own ends.

puzzle

LEM: This is altogether a greater quantity of gold than any I've seen in my life.
VAYA: We need to set some aside for Nils' payment. The rest we'll use for Clara's outfit.
SORIA: You're going to use that gold to adorn me? Please don't suggest I don plated armor or something of the like.
LEM: No, I have a much better idea. You'll be the talk of the city for a generation.
SORIA: You say that as though there won't be anything else unusual about this ball.
LEM: Right. Sometimes I forget about the rest of our plan.

VAYA: Let me know how you'd like the jewel of your tiara to look.
SORIA: Taros Colvan isn't one for subtlety. He needs to be dazzled by everything he sees. If my sword indicates nobility, the jewel should imply obscene wealth.
LEM: But it would be a shame to make some overwrought bauble just for his benefit. Why not have something you truly want to wear?
SORIA: Maybe... I don't want to tempt myself to imagine this is anything but a plot with a specific aim-- a specific target.
LEM: But perhaps Taros' interest will grow all the more if you present yourself in a way that suits you.
SORIA: Oh, that's a frightening proposition.

puzzle

SORIA: If it were up to me, I would dispense entirely with this vain and empty grandeur.
LEM: That's a bit rash, don't you think? These rituals do hold important meanings.
SORIA: Perhaps they did once, but they've ♥♥♥♥♥♥ lost over time.
LEM: All the more reason to preserve it before it's lost forever.
SORIA: But it's all posturing! Empty symbols. How many of us carry swords and can't even use them?
LEM: Well, at least the jewel looks lovely on you.
SORIA: Thank you, Concordia. Maybe one day I'll be able to wear it purely for myself.

LEM: Just supply me with the thread. I'll take care of the rest of it.
VAYA: You're sure? From thread to complete dress?
LEM: I still know all the suppliers of the Van Tassen raiment. They'll know what to do.
SORIA: This is amounting to quite the production.
LEM: It's a shame the Van Tassens won't gain the benefit of this work.
VAYA: A ball gown of pure gold certainly would have fit well with their sense of style.
SORIA: Ah, Frederick... how I wish you could be there to see it.

puzzle

LEM: See the thread here? As thin and smooth as silk.
SORIA: And you plan to make the entire dress out of this? Quite the bold sartorial statement.
LEM: That's the plan: to have everyone's eyes on you.
SORIA: A nerve-wracking thought. At the same time, I'm practically bursting with anticipation for it. A strange admixture of emotions, I'll admit...
LEM: You're stronger than you know, Clara. You'll do wonderfully. I'm sure of it.
SORIA: Concordia... thank you.

Abandoned Tailor Shop, The Downriver Quarters

LEM: Nils? Is that you?
WHITTLE: (entering) Sorry to interrupt your alchemical intrigues, but I cam eback to let you know House Colvan is stepping up patrols through border zones. They may have realized there were some escapees...
LEM: Took them long enough.
VAYA: Thank you for the warning. I have a few more things to do, but we should be out of here just as soon as I'm finished.
WHITTLE: Don't hesitate, they're clearly looking for someone.
VAYA: Clara, this is Nils. You could say he's a bit of an unsavory character--
SORIA: No, I know.
VAYA: Wait... you know Nils?
SORIA: Know him? I employ him.
WHITTLE: Only on a part-time basis.
LEM: Ha! I always wondered how you found us so easily.
SORIA: I'm almost offended you didn't realize it sooner.
LEM: Your machinations are at a level far beyond ours, I'm afraid.
VAYA: And here I thought I'd found the only trustworthy thief in the city...
WHITTLE: Lady Soria, I advise returning home now before there is any chance of being seen here.
SORIA: That's likely for the best, I agree.
VAYA: There's still the matter of the lipstick.
SORIA: Once you've made it, Nils can bring it to me on the night of the ball itself.
VAYA: Very well. One more thing, Clara... there will be chaos.
SORIA: I know. And I don't fear it.

The Greathall, House Van Tassen

TAROS COLVAN: Verrin, it's my understanding that alchemists must pass a difficult course of study at the Imperial University, and therefore only a small number graduate.
VERRIN RAVARI: That is correct.
COLVAN: And, therefore, alchemists tend to keep track of each other, even as they spread out across the city...
RAVARI: Often times.
COLVAN: It follows, then, would it not, that the alchemist of a House like House Colvan would be aware that another House like House Van Tassen had a new alchemist?
RAVARI: Taros, I see where this is going, and I want to say--
COLVAN: And yet, I'm surprised to say that my alchemist somehow neglected to keep this in mind and did nothing to detain or incapacitate him during this time! How strange, don't you think?
RAVARI: I've explained this. We made our best attempt, but he slipped away somehow. If you'd notified me sooner that the shipment of ore was missing--
COLVAN: Excuses! I hear only excuses from you!
RAVARI: Please, young Taros. Must I remind you that your father and I--
COLVAN: My father? My father should have ♥♥♥♥♥♥ rid of you long ago! You're not fit to mention his name. You fancy yourself a strategist but your counsel is worth even less than your alchemy. Leave me!
RAVARI: You're making a mistake, Taros!
COLVAN: I said. Leave.


LEM: When you first suggested getting a mannequin, I thought you were joking.
VAYA: I wasn't. It was useful for finishing Clara's dress, wasn't it?
LEM: Yes, it was, but I hardly expect you to consider such matters. Now that the dress is done, we could dispose of it.
VAYA: No, I have a use for it just as soon as I finish this formula.
LEM: Should I be alarmed?
VAYA: No. Or maybe. Maybe, but only a little.

puzzle

VAYA: During the battle with House Colvan I created a mist intended on making outposts inaccessible even if we could not adequately defend them...
LEM: I remember that. Are you planning a similar strategy?
VAYA: Something like it. The enclosed environment here is a better place for it anyway.
LEM: I still can't imagine it delaying someone for long.
VAYA: It's not really for delaying. We should be long gone before anyone gets here.
LEM: You have a more obscure purpose in mind.
VAYA: I do. You'll see.

VAYA: I used to believe that alchemy could solve any problem.
LEM: And you don't believe this any longer?
VAYA: Not at all. Look at all the good my alchemy has done thus far.
LEM: Perhaps you picked the wrong problems to solve...
VAYA: At the university, there's this sense that nothing is beyond alchemical science. By learning to practice alchemy, you're achieving total mastery over the world.
LEM: It's an appealing viewpoint.
VAYA: Appealing, but wrong.

puzzle

VAYA: I'm sure of it, now. Alchemists believe far too strongly in their own abilities.
LEM: Perhaps you could inform your colleagues of this new conclusion.
VAYA: Ha, a quaint notion. They'd never let me lecture at the University, not in my state. And it's not a message they'd want to hear.
LEM: That's a shame. Outside views are important to consider.
VAYA: Outside views... yes, I'm quite far from the center of alchemical engineering today. Strange to think how quickly that happened.
LEM: Perspective requires distance, doesn't it?

LEM: I have never thought alchemy particularly dangerous before, but I see now why it was once so feared. It's an alarmingly powerful art.
VAYA: There's a good reason alchemists must be licensed before they can practice.
LEM: Would you consider yourself licensed at the moment?
VAYA: That's a special circumstance.
LEM: By all rights we should be dead, so I doubt it matters now.

puzzle

LEM: Imagine, though, if ordinary people could use alchemical engineering in the service of their own well-being.
VAYA: I'm not at all certain that would go well. Besides, even an alchemist can't reverse the momentum of the world.
LEM: But if it were a group of alchemists, all working to the same end... Things could change dramatically.
VAYA: Perhaps. But I very much doubt you could get two alchemists to agree on anything, let alone many of them.

VAYA: Concordia, can I ask an odd question?
LEM: If you must.
VAYA: Are you still driven by this idea of revenge?
LEM: Yes, certainly. When I recall what happened I feel anger as raw as the day it happened. House Colvan ruined us and killed so many... for what purpose? I owe it to the memory of those lost to see some manner of requital done.
VAYA: I see.
LEM: But Anataeus, what prompted you to continue down this path with me?
VAYA: I don't know. I haven't thought about it too much...
LEM: We've come quite a long way for you to remain so unaware.
VAYA: I suppose it's a matter of-- a matter of who I am. Were it not for our goal, what reason would I have to exist? I must practice alchemy. It's my purpose.

puzzle

VAYA: There. Does this look suspicious to you?
LEM: Now that you've asked, I can't help but see it in the light of suspicion.
VAYA: But if you saw it on its own without my having asked, would you think it suspicious?
LEM: Perhaps I wouldn't. It's difficult to say without seeing it in place.
VAYA: We'll have to trust that Nils knows how to place a charge unobtrusively.
LEM: I have a feeling he's seen his share of this type of work before...
VAYA: And you're sure he knows where to place them?
LEM: Clara's seen to that. She somehow obtained a map of all House Colvan's properties... including their guardposts and armories.
VAYA: Ah, of course she has.
LEM: I'll enjoy watching the neighboring Houses rush in to claim Colvan's properties as their own. It's a fitting retribution.

LEM: Are you at all nervous about going through with the plan?
VAYA: Perhaps a little, but I can only trust on our abilities. Why, are you nervous?
LEM: I keep asking myself if we've missed something.
VAYA: We've been over it many times. It's as sound as anything I've designed.
LEM: Oh, Anataeus. Alchemy itself is a science, but alchemy's effects on the world are like anything else: Impossible to predict.
VAYA: I don't know about that. Some things are eminently predictable.
LEM: And responses like that one are surely one of them.

puzzle

LEM: I hope Clara will survive. It so happens that I quite like her.
VAYA: She'll get the nonlethal dose as long as she doesn't lick her lips.
LEM: I mean afterwards. Surely that would not eliminate all of the suspicion.
VAYA: It may depend upon how well she can act the part of the innocent, oblivious House heir.
LEM: Luckily it seemed she's quite practiced at that.
VAYA: It's unfortunate that circumstance compels her to hide her intelligence that way.
LEM: Especially when she's in fact the smartest person I've ever met.
VAYA: Wait-- really? More than me?

VAYA: When I was in the university I had so many ideas. It's almost nice, in a way, to have just the one now.
LEM: Do you feel it too? A sense as though I were being guided along a path toward some inevitability.
VAYA: A shame that nobody will ever know about how I made the Universal Solvent under great duress with only the barest of ingredients.
LEM: Perhaps someone will tell the story, one day.
VAYA: It seems rather unlikely. The whole point of making this is so there won't be any evidence left behind.

puzzle

VAYA: I'm about to dissolve the transmutation engine itself. We must be sure every piece of the plan is set.
LEM: As far as I can ascertain we are ready. Nils has taken the packages. Clara is set for her stunning debut.
VAYA: And are you truly ready?
LEM: I should be the one asking you.
VAYA: There's no choice. It must go, all of it. Then good riddance.
LEM: Yes, let's go.

Abandoned Tailor Shop, The Downriver Quarters

VERRIN RAVARI: Surprise! I've found you. Hiding out in this rotting hovel like the rat you are. You bastard of an alchemist. Don't think I don't know every part of your plot, and the names of all your accomplices, too.
VAYA: ...
RAVARI: I'll have to admit-- it was a decent plan. Everyone at the ball was quite shocked. And then Lady Soria's confused look, her biggest eyes: "My lipstick? Why, it was a gift from the Colvan alchemist..." Luckily, House Colvan's guards are no match for me. I'll explain it all to them later, once I return with your head.
VAYA: ...
RAVARI: The funny thing is, the assassination of Taros Colvan and the collapse of his House hardly even matters to me. Taros was an idiot, easily beguiled by promises of riches and wealth, and his House didn't deserve to be in his hands. In fact, the attack on House Van Tassen was entirely my idea. I simply planted the seed in his impressionable mind. And why did I do it? Let me ask you a question in return. Imagine if the Van Tassens had worked for you, instead of the other way round. If you had been in charge, wouldn't you have won that battle with your superior knowledge and tactics? Wouldn't you have what you wanted? So why weren't you?
VAYA: ...
RAVARI: The Houses are weak after centuries of decadence. They don't deserve what they have. But we do-- bu the very fact that we can take it from them! I'll rule House Colvan easily enough once I'm cleared of the assassination you tried to pin on me. The damage from the explosions will have to be repaired too, of course... I am generous. You can get what remains of House Van Tassen. Then, we can simply evenly divide the other Houses between us as we overtake them. What do you think? I'm... I'm... what's wrong with you? Why aren't you saying anything?
VAYA: (revealed to be a mannequin) ...
RAVARI: Is... that... no! You! No! You're not even here! You've gone already. I get it. Ha... Good one, Anataeus. Good one, yes. Ha, ha, ha... aaaaah. My plans... my opus magnum...