The Virgin Homicide/Dialogues

**You are experiencing the story in third-person view.**
Nebet is tidying up the guest’s room...

* + Nebet (pressing on the pillows; thinking): It’s been a day since Livius proposed to me and I’ve yet have given my answer. What should I say to him?
	+ Nebet (worried): I can say no and live outside the palace a free woman, but where would I turn to? I don’t have a place to stay at, and who would give work to a former slave like me?
	+ Nebet (eye rolling): My sister says I could join the scholae she’s now working at, but I’m not going to whore myself just for a couple of goods!
	+ Nebet (blushing): Maybe I should marry Livius... I mean, what he showed me last night was... underwhelming, but I’m sure he can please me in other ways, after all, I am quite fond of him... As a person, of cours-

Suddenly Nebet senses someone entering the room...

* + Nebet (startled): *gasps*

She turns a little to see who it is...

* + Carolus (smirking): ...

Realizing it is Carolus, she quickly turns away and pretends she doesn’t see him...

* + Nebet (sweating; whispering): No no no! Not him! Anyone but him!
	+ Nebet (folding the blanket; whispering): Maybe if I ignore him, he won’t realize that I’m scared and then maybe... Maybe he’ll get bored and leave me! It’s not my looks that attract him, but the power he has on me!
	+ Carolus (grinning): It’s been a while since we’ve been left alone, pet! I sure hope you were dying to see me again!
	+ Nebet (sweating): ...
	+ Carolus (annoyed): Hellooo can you hear me, or did they cut your tongue?
	+ Carolus (squeezing his hand): Or maybe you just need a little tap to awaken you!

Carolus grabs Nebet’s bum.

* + Nebet (startled): AHHH!!! Get away from me!
	+ Carolus (laughing): Yell again! You know how much I like your screams!

Carolus touches her again, but this time Nebet pushes him away...

* + Nebet (furious): I said GET AWAY!
	+ Carolus (shocked): You-

Carolus was shocked, but soon anger took over and- SLAP! Nebet falls to the ground...

* + Nebet (feeling her cheek): ...
	+ Carolus (furious): Have you forgotten your place, PET?! How dare you raise your hands on your masters!
	+ Carolus (pissed): You should consider yourself lucky I’m feeling lenient today, because I should be flogging you right no-
	+ Nebet (furious): No you shouldn’t, because I am NOT your slave! I’m a free woman and you have no right to raise your hand at me ever again!
	+ Nebet (angry): Done are the days I would quiver with fear of you and once I become empress I’ll make you pay for every time you’ve forced yourself on me!
	+ Carolus (laughing): That has to be the lamest threat I have heard yet! What deludes you into thinking that you, a slave, has the power of ruling an empire?
	+ Nebet (serious): You’ll see.

Carolus was about to make another snide comment, but he notices the seriousness in Nebet’s expression and catches on what’s going on...

* + Carolus (shocked): Oh no, he is not-
	+ Nebet (smirking): I see that you’re finally catching on...
	+ Carolus (furious): YOU-

Carolus was about to strangle Nebet, but realizes that’ll be a bad idea and finally backs away...

* + Carolus (holding his anger): I’ve got to have a word with that kid!

Carolus heads to look for Livius...

Previously, outside Domus Lucretius...

* + Norah (serious): Alright! Since Shirley’s free now, I guess its time that we focus on our ques-
	+ Aegidius (panicking): MURDER! There’s a murder at the Vestal temple! One of the virgins was killed!
	+ Marionette (shocked): Did you hear what the boy said?! Someone got murdered!
	+ Kaleb (crossing his arms): And not just any person, a Vestal virgin! One of the most highly-respected citizens of Rome!
	+ Shirley (horrified): And they come from the most powerful families of noble! Whoever died inside there, their death will cause an uproar at court!
	+ Marionette (serious): So we need to find out who killed them before news of their murder reach their family!
	+ Norah (serious): Kaleb, you stay with Shirley. Marionette and I will go talk with the boy!

Norah and Marionette approach the boy...

* + Norah (winking): Hello, kid! We couldn’t help but hear your screams, you say someone got murdered, huh?
	+ Aegidius (panicking): Yes! I need to go get the guards-
	+ Norah (thinking): That would be unnecessary, my sister and I can find the killer faster than any centurion could...
	+ Marionette (warm smile): We just need you to take us to where you found the body and we will do the rest of the work.
	+ Aegidius (nervous): S-sure, follow me!

The kid takes the girls to the Temple of Vesta...

* + Vesma (serious): Aegidius! Did you get the guards?
	+ Aegidius (sweating): Not really...
	+ Vesma (pissed): What do you mean by “not really”? I have given you clear orders, did you follow them or not?
	+ Marionette (curious): Ma’am, we aren’t centurions, but we are hear to take a look at the crime scene, would you mind clearing up the area?
	+ Vesma (crossing her arms): I would rather have the army conduct an investigation, but alas! I’ll tell my priests to leave the temple!
	+ Norah (glad): Alrighty! It’s time to start solving the murder! Lets go!

## Chapter 1

* Investigate the Temple of Vesta.
	+ Norah (thinking): So this is our victim... Is it just me, or does her face look so... familiar?
	+ Norah (scratching her head): Maybe I’m mixing her up with someone...
	+ Norah (crossing her arms): Hmmm... I don’t see any wounds on her body...
	+ Norah (shocked): Do you think she suffocated inside that sarcophagus?! That is horrifying!
	+ Norah (serious): We need to take her body to Kaleb. And I think we should go talk to that old lady again, maybe she could tell us who the victim is!
* Ask the high priestess to identify the victim (1 star; Victim identified: Drusa Livia).
	+ Norah (curious): I assume you are the priestess in charge of the temple, would you mind giving us your name?
	+ Vesma (serious): It’s Vesma, and I hope you know what you’re doing and are not here to waste our time.
	+ Norah (crossing her arms): We promise you we do. We just want to know more about the victim before we conduct an investigation...
	+ Vesma (covering her face): Her name is Drusa Livia and she’s served the temple for nearly 20 years.
	+ Vesma (sad): I’ve known her when she was just a child and its a shame she died when she’s only a decade away from completing her service...
	+ Norah (confused): Drusa Livia? Mario- I mean Marina! Doesn’t that name sound familiar to you?
	+ Vesma (crossing her arms): She’s a Drusi, one of the oldest and most influential families in Rome, so it is to be expected that you’ve heard of them already...
	+ Vesma (frustrated): And I don’t mean to rush you, but if her murderer isn’t caught, this could cause a lot of tension between them and their rivals, so you better be quick!
	+ Norah (curious): Speaking of tension, do you know if Lady Drusa had any enemies inside the temple?
	+ Vesma (horrified): Not that I’m aware of! In fact, I am appalled that you’d suggest one of my priests would have done something so horrifying!
	+ Norah (serious): Seeing that the murder took place in the temple, this makes you and your priests the most likely suspects. Unless you’ve seen the killer themself leave the the scene?
	+ Vesma (crossing her arms): Unfortunately, I haven’t seen a thing. It was Aegidius who found the body and informed the temple about it...
	+ Vesma (covering her face): You can speak to him and see what he knows. As for me, I need to go appoint replacement for Drusa...
	+ Norah (crossing her arms): They’ve got a replacement for her already?! Damn! Talk about compassion!
	+ Norah (serious): I’m not going to judge their lifestyle. The priestess told us to talk to Aegidius to see what he knows, and I assume that must be the kid who led us to the temple. Lets go speak with him!
* Ask Aegidius if he saw the killer (1 star; Pre-request: Ask the high priestess to identify the victim).
	+ Aegidius (worried): I’m not in trouble, am I? I-I swear that I found Drusa the way she is, I didn’t do anything to her-
	+ Norah (nervous grin): Relax! We’re not here to arrest you, we just want to ask some questions!
	+ Norah (curious): Vesma told us you found the body. We want to know how you came across it and whether you saw someone leaving or entering the temple while the murder took place?
	+ Aegidius (sweating): I was bringing water to temple and I noticed the sarcophagus lid was closed. It was usually open, so I found that strange and decided to lift the lid- This was how I found the body!
	+ Aegidius (shocked): But I haven’t seen the killer! I think they must’ve killed her at nighttime! Vesma has ordered Drusa to stay up and guard the fire alone, and the killer must’ve took that as an opportunity to strike!
	+ Norah (thinking): So you didn’t witness the murder. But do you anyone who frequents the temple- Aside from the virgins?
	+ Aegidius (blushing): There’s a man who comes here every week to do checks on us. He wears a white robe, a funny little and a large silver necklace.
	+ Aegidius (scratching his head): But I don’t know his name and who he is exactly. Vesma tells me I shouldn’t talk to him as I can be a little annoying.
	+ Norah (glad): Regardless, thank you for letting us know! Marina, lets go search the forum and see if we can find something that’ll track us to that man!
* Investigate the forum (Pre-request: Ask Aegidius if he saw the killer)
	+ Norah (shocked): Marionette, that must be the “necklace” Aegidius was talking about when describing the man!
	+ Norah (thinking): And I think I know that “necklace”. It’s the rosary the pope wears around his neck!
	+ Kaleb (serious): You mean the Pontifex Maximus!
	+ Norah (confused): Ah! Where did you come from? And Pontiff-what?!
	+ Kaleb (serious): Pontifex Maximus. It’s what the Romans call their head priest! You need to get used to these terms if you expect to blend in!
	+ Norah (eye rolling): Whatever! At least we know who that rosary belongs to which is all that matters. Lets go have a word with that priest!
* Talk to the Pontifex Maximus (1 star; Pre-request: Investigate the forum)
	+ Franciscus (baptizing a baby): ego te baptizo in nomine Patris et Filii et Spiritus Sancti-
	+ Norah (awkward grin): Excuse me! Sorry, we’d like to pass-
	+ Noblewoman (furious): Who do you think you are, daring to interrupt my daughter’s baptism!
	+ Norah (sweating): We said we’re sorry, we want to talk to the Pontifex!
	+ Franciscus (handing baby over): The precession is over, you may take your child.
	+ Noblewoman (holding her baby; disappointed): Some people! Absolutely distasteful!
	+ Franciscus (crossing his arms): I do hope you have good reasons for interrupting the precession, this better be urgent!
	+ Norah (nervous grin): We came because we’ve got some news from the Temple of Vesta!
	+ Franciscus (shocked): The fire! Did it go out?!
	+ Norah (sweating): No... A priestess got murdered...
	+ Franciscus (relieved): Thank the gods!
	+ Norah (stumped): Excuse me?
	+ Franciscus (nervous grin): Not that the girl’s life is unimportant, of course. I meant thank the gods Rome is safe from danger!
	+ Franciscus (blushing): Who is the girl anyway?
	+ Norah (thinking): Her name is Drusa Livia, we were told that she’s been serving the temple for nearly 20 years, we assume you’ve at least crossed paths?
	+ Franciscus (covering his face): Oh, her... Such a shame! She was such a devoted priestess and wished her a great future once she completes her service!
	+ Franciscus (raising a finger): I’ll make sure to keep her in my prayers and wish her a safe path to Elysium!
* Autopsy victim’s body (Killer attribute: The killer is vegetarian; Killer attribute: The killer takes oil baths)
	+ Norah (serious): Kaleb, did you find anything through your autopsy?
	+ Kaleb (covering his face): First, as you mentioned, there are no wounds on her body, which makes me believe she must have suffocated inside the sarcophagus...
	+ Kaleb (serious): However, I did find marks that indicate a struggle, so I can confidently say someone forced her inside and she didn’t get in by herself! It was no suicide!
	+ Kaleb (thinking): I’ve also found an oil stain in her dress which is usually used for cleaning purposes. Which means the killer takes oil baths...
	+ Kaleb: Additionally, there were traces of vegetation which I recognizes as common alternatives to meat when making dishes. So I also believe the killer may be vegetarian.
	+ Kaleb (serious): And before you go. I’d like to point out that priests aren’t allowed to eat anything that touches a flame, meaning meat is out of the picture as they can’t eat it raw. So if you have any priests in your suspect lineup, just immediately assume that they fit this trait!
	+ Norah (glad): Thanks Kaleb! Marie, lets make a note on this in case we’ve forgotten...

At the forum...

* + Norah (disgusted): I still can’t believe the head priest was more concerned for a FIRE than a human life! Is he for real?
	+ Norah (covering her face): I shouldn’t be survived. I’ve heard stories about the virgins and how they would be punished and some were even executed whenever the flame goes out!
	+ Norah (thinking): Anyway, we know the killer takes oil baths and didn’t we witness the Pontifex performing a baptism? So we know he’s in contact with oil!
	+ Norah (glad): We also know the killer is vegetarian, and- Oh! Kaleb says to just assume all the priests fit this attribute! This means Aegidius, Vesma and the Pontifex must all be vegetarian-
	+ Centurions (Centurion 1; serious): Marina Patricia and Marinus Patricius! The crown prince demands you come to the palace!

## Chapter 2

* + Norah (disgusted): I still can’t believe the head priest was more concerned for a FIRE than a human life! Is he for real?
	+ Norah (covering her face): I shouldn’t be survived. I’ve heard stories about the virgins and how they would be punished and some were even executed whenever the flame goes out!
	+ Norah (thinking): Anyway, we know the killer takes oil baths and didn’t we witness the Pontifex performing a baptism? So we know he’s in contact with oil!
	+ Norah (glad): We also know the killer is vegetarian, and- Oh! Kaleb says to just assume all the priests fit this attribute! This means Aegidius, Vesma and the Pontifex must all be vegetarian-
	+ Centurions (Centurion 1; serious): Marina Patricia and Marinus Patricius! The crown prince demands you come to the palace!
	+ Norah (confused): What does he want from us? He did change his mind on our arrangement, did he?
	+ Norah (crossing her arms): We’re a bit busy with a murder, but if the crown prince wishes to talk to us, I suppose we have no choice but to come...
* See why the crown prince wishes to summon you (1 star).
	+ Livius (crying): ...
	+ Norah (blushing): Your majesty, is something wrong?
	+ Livius (wiping tears; embarrassed): Ah! I didn’t see you coming!
	+ Norah (confused): You asked to see us?
	+ Livius (worried): Oh yes! Are the news true- Did my sister get murdered?!
	+ Norah (shocked): SISTER?! No wonder why the victim was so familiar!
	+ Livius (panicking): So it is true! FUCK! Why did this have to happen!
	+ Livius (wiping his tears): She was supposed to get out today! She was supposed to be, she wasn’t supposed to die!
	+ Norah (confused): Get out? But- Vesma said she still had 10 years left for her service-
	+ Livius (sad): That was the original arrangement, but my sister never consented to becoming a priestess! That decision was made by our mother not her!
	+ Livius (serious): I’ve spoken with the Pontifex Maximus and he agreed to remove her from the temple and let her marry-
	+ Norah (confused): Marry?! You mean your sister had a boyfriend?! I thought they aren’t allowed to date?
	+ Livius (crossing his arms): They are not allowed to have sex, they are still allowed to see people as long as the relationship doesn’t get physical. I’ve been informed by the priests that someone asked for her hand in marriage.
	+ Norah (curious): Have they told you who it was?
	+ Livius (covering his face): Yes... It was Sussus Amogus-
	+ Norah (laughing): Hahahahaha!
	+ Livius (crossing his arms): What’s funny about Sussus Amogus?
	+ Norah (holding her laughter): Nothing... Was there something you wanted to add?
	+ Livius (serious): I’ve sent him a letter asking him to come to the basilica. I don’t know if he heard the news, but if you want to talk to him, chance you’ll find him there. Just make sure you find my sister’s killer and bring them to me!
	+ Norah (awkward grin): Maybe it was inappropriate for me to laugh while interrogating Livius for his sister’s murder, but... Seriously? Sussus Amogus?
	+ Norah (holding her laughter): Okay, I’ll quit thinking about it. Funny name or not, this man needs to know about his fiancée’s murder, lets go to the basilica and look for him!
* Investigate the basilica (Pre-request: See why the crown prince wishes to summon you)
	+ Norah (eye rolling): So that’s the basilica? Thank gods its not as prepped up as the ones I’ve been to back home. Never got the big deal with churches...
	+ Norah (thinking): These must be the confessionals, and look! Someone left a confession!
	+ Norah (shocked): Okay! I don’t quite understand what’s written, but I think I see the victim’s name!
	+ Norah (serious): We should take this to Kaleb and have him translate the rest of the statemen-
	+ Sussus (grinning): Twice in one day? Could it be fate or is it just a coincidence?
	+ Norah (confused): Who’s talking to us?
	+ Sussus (laughing): Hello? I’m right beside you!
	+ Norah (shocked): You’re the guy we met outside the forum! It’s good to see you again, man!
	+ Sussus (grinning): It’s certainly a pleasure being around the beauty that is your sister. Have you come here to pray to sky daddy?
	+ Norah (eye rolling): Oh no! We came here for other reasons. But anyway, what are you doing here? I didn’t take you as the religious type?
	+ Sussus (arms behind head): I’m not, I’ve come for a mission too, and since we’re here? Why don’t we stay for a chat?
	+ Norah (blushing): That would be nice, but- We’re kind of in a hurry and have to go...
	+ Sussus (eye rolling): Bummer!
	+ Norah (curious): But hey! I don’t believe we have even gotten your name?
	+ Sussus (yawning): It’s Sussus. But you can call me Sus for short...
	+ Norah (holding her laughter): Sussus-
	+ Norah (serious): Hold up! Now that I think about it, we’d like to have a chat with you!
* Inform Sussus of his fiancée’s murder (1 star; Investigate the basilica)
	+ Sussus (smiling): What made you change your mind? Was it my charms?
	+ Norah (crossing her arms): Uh... No. We’ve actually heard about you, from the crown prince himself and he told us that you’re marrying his sister...
	+ Sussus (grinning): So my boy Liv is an emperor now? Ha! Can’t wait to see how the empire’ll look on his hands!
	+ Norah (curious): I didn’t take you as the marrying type?
	+ Sussus (yawning): You know... My mother kept telling me how one day I should settle down and find myself a wife. And I finally thought, why not? So I chose to be with Drusa.
	+ Norah (sympathetic): We’re glad you found the one. But... I’m afraid we have sad news for you- Drusa’s dead.
	+ Sussus (crossing his arms): She’s dead? You’re kidding me, right? What a bummer...
	+ Norah (stumped): A bummer? Is that it? Thought you’d be a little more... emotional...
	+ Sussus (smirking): I’m a man, I don’t cry. I have other ways to display my emotions.
	+ Sussus (grinning): And anyway, Lady Marina, if you are free, what do you say about having an oil bath with me? I’ve got a few tricks up my toga which I really would like to show you...
* Send confession to Kaleb (Killer attribute: The killer knows Roman mythology)
	+ Kaleb (crossing his arms): I’ve read the confession you two gave me and it seems like it come from the killer.
	+ Norah (shocked): Really?! What does it say?!
	+ Kaleb: “May the gods forgive me for giving Drusa Livia an early grave.”
	+ Norah (crossing her arms): Good to know they have a sense of guilt, aside from “giving Drusa Livia an early grave” did they give away anything else?
	+ Kaleb (crossing his arms): Unfortunately no, the confession was anonymous...
	+ Kaleb (serious): BUT notice how they used “gods” instead of God?
	+ Kaleb (thinking): Also, I haven’t said that earlier but back in Ancient times when a Vestal Virgin is set for execution, instead of giving them quick deaths they are locked inside a dark room where they would starve to death...
	+ Kaleb (crossing his arms): This is because they believed that spilling the blood of a virgin will trigger Vesta’s wrath, so they wanted to kill them in a way that spills no blood.
	+ Kaleb (serious): So judging by the murder method and that confession, the killer must have knowledge in Greek or should I say- Roman mythology. And like with the vegetarian clue, I would assume any priest in your lineup would fit that trait!
	+ Norah (serious): They can pray to the gods all they want but that won’t stop them from facing justice for the murder!

At the temple...

* + Norah (crossing her arms): Marie, I’m still feeling something fishy about Sus. I know not everyone reacts the same way toward death, but he seemed... completely unfazed by Drusa’s death...
	+ Norah (serious): Seeing that we’re at the temple, why don’t we search it again? Maybe we missed something while we were there!
* Investigate bonfire.
	+ Norah (curious): Marie, did you find anything interesting?
	+ Norah (thinking): Hmm... A notebook, do you think it’s the victim’s? Why don’t we give it a read-
	+ Norah (eye rolling): Aaaaaand it’s in Latin, ugh! Lets just hand it over to Kaleb!
* Send the notebook to Kaleb (Pre-request: Investigate the bonfire)
	+ Norah (curious): Kaleb, did you read the notebook? Does it belong to the victim?
	+ Kaleb (eye rolling): No, but it sure does talk a lot about her!
	+ Kaleb (crossing his arms): Another person it kept referencing is another suspect of yours- Sussus, and the person owning the notebook is basically monitoring their every move!
	+ Kaleb (disgusted): They’ve even followed them to the bathhouse while taking an oil bath and made comments on any physical contact they’ve done!
	+ Norah (disgusted): Okay, that sounds borderline obsessive! Who was writing on the book?!
	+ Kaleb (crossing his arms): They didn’t put their name but based on the perspective, I do believe the book likely belongs to the high priestess!
	+ Norah (crossing her arms): So the high priestess is spying on her mentee? I think this gives us a reason to go speak with her!
* Confront Vesma for spying on the victim (1 star; Pre-request: Send the notebook to Kaleb)
	+ Norah (pissed): Vesma, we found your notebook. Would you explain why you were spying on the victim and her lover?!
	+ Vesma (pissed): And why shouldn’t I? As a Vestal priestess, Drusa is obliged to spare her virginity until her service ends, else the goddess Vesta will get angry and bring doom to the city!
	+ Vesma (angry): That boy she went out- He’s a known womanizer! So you can’t blame me for monitoring their meetings!
	+ Norah (curious): We understand you have to be cautious, but don’t you think what you’re doing is creepy?
	+ Vesma (crossing her arms): Well... It’s not my idea! Franciscus has asked me to keep an eye on them!
	+ Norah (confused): Franciscus? Who is that?
	+ Vesma (serious): The Pontifex Maximus, Sussus Amogus came to him asking for Drusa’s hand in marriage, he refused his proposal and requested me to make sure the priestess doesn’t do anything to offend the goddess.
	+ Norah (serious): Thank you for sharing this, Marina lets go grill the Pontifex!
* Confront the Pontifex for refusing to marry Sussus and the victim (1 star; Pre-request: Confront Vesma for spying on the victim)
	+ Norah (crossing her arms): Pontifex Maximus, we just came from speaking with Vesma. Is it true you appointed her to spy at the victim?
	+ Franciscus (raising his finger): I did, but you need to understand that its for the good of Rome!
	+ Norah (pissed): The good of Rome is limiting a young lady’s freedom? If you’re so obsessed with keeping the priests of Vesta pure, couldn’t you just remove her from the temple and let her be with her love?
	+ Franciscus (serious): As much as I wanted to, I simply could not! Part of her service is to slave herself to the goddess for 30 years and its not in my power to let her go!
	+ Franciscus (pissed): So you must understand my frustration when she had her crown prince brother talk to me when she didn’t get her way!
	+ Franciscus (shocked): This put me in such a difficult position! Either I disobey the future emperor and meet his punishment, or I obey him and risk the goddess’ wrath!
	+ Franciscus (relieved): I’m not the type to wish ill on the dead, but thank heavens Drusa died before I could make a choice!
	+ Norah (serious): Well, we do hope you weren’t the one to pull the trigger, because I’m sure “saving Rome from the goddess’ wrath” will not be a good enough motive for the crown prince!

Outside the temple...

* + Norah (covering her face): Thank goodness I wasn’t born as a noblewoman in Rome! Imagine having to serve a temple for three decades because your mother wanted something to brag about! It must have been horrible for Drusa!
	+ Norah (crossing her arms): So far, the only suspects who fit all our attributes are Vesma and Pontifex, so it is between them...
	+ Norah (thinking): However, we may need to get to know our other suspects better, because who knows? Maybe we missed something ou-
	+ Norah (confused): Is there a problem Marie, why do you look so worried?
	+ Norah (shocked): The smoke coming from the Temple of Vesta! It stopped! Do you think something happened to the fire?
	+ Norah (sweating): Not that I believe in the power it supposedly brings, but I can bet you there’s a panic going in there, we need to go check on the virgins!

## Chapter 3

* + Norah (covering her face): Thank goodness I wasn’t born as a noblewoman in Rome! Imagine having to serve a temple for three decades because your mother wanted something to brag about! It must have been horrible for Drusa!
	+ Norah (crossing her arms): So far, the only suspects who fit all our attributes are Vesma and Pontifex, so it is between them...
	+ Norah (thinking): However, we may need to get to know our other suspects better, because who knows? Maybe we missed something ou-
	+ Norah (confused): Is there a problem Marie, why do you look so worried?
	+ Norah (shocked): The smoke coming from the Temple of Vesta! It stopped! Do you think something happened to the fire?
	+ Norah (sweating): Not that I believe in the power it supposedly brings, but I can bet you there’s a panic going in there, we need to go check on the virgins!

At the temple...

* + Vesma (furious): You foolish child! Look at what you’ve done!
	+ Aegidius (sweating; holding a jar): I’m so sorry... I-I didn’t mean to do this-
	+ Norah (shocked): We noticed the smoke have stopped. What happened here?! How did the fire go out?
	+ Vesma (angry): It was that child! He poured water over the flames!
	+ Aegidius (panicking): But it was an accident! I-I slipped!
	+ Virgins (Virgin 1; panicking): Your Holiness! Do you think the goddess will incur her wrath on us?!
	+ Vesma (worried): I’m afraid so.. Unless... Unless the Pontifex knows a way we could avoid it...
	+ Norah (shrugging her shoulders): Or maybe you could just reignite the flames? I don’t think anyone else notices the flames were put out?
	+ Vesma (furious): And deceive the public with a false sense of safety?! Absolutely not! As the priests of Vesta, it is our duty to appease the goddess and save the city from her wrath!
	+ Vesma (pissed): Aegidius! Get up from the floor and go fetch the Pontifex! Tell him to get here as fast as possible!
	+ Aegidius (nervous): As you wish your Holiness!
	+ Vesma (pissed): This is exactly why I didn’t want to appoint a boy! A girl would’ve never made such an accident!
	+ Norah (thinking): Maybe we should go with Aegidius, it’s worth giving the basilica another look, don’t you think?
* Investigate the chancel.
	+ Norah (curious): Marionette, what did you find? A torn papyrus roll?
	+ Norah (thinking): I think we should restore it, it could be related to our murder?
	+ Norah (warm smile): Also, I think maybe we should go check on Aegidius, he must be feeling terrified after the way Vesma blew up at him...
* Check on Aegidius (1 star; Pre-request: Investigate the chancel).
	+ Norah (warm smile): Hey Aegidius! How’re you doing?
	+ Aegidius (shivering): I-I’m fine, just a little scared of how they would punish me...
	+ Aegidius (panicking): What if they decide to kill me?!
	+ Norah (nervous grin): I’m sure they’re not going to go that far...
	+ Aegidius (shocked): But they will! They did it once to a girl blamed for putting out the fire! They locked her up in a room and left her to starve!
	+ Aegidius (crying): I should’ve ratted out Drusa! This must be Vesta’s punishment for my silence!
	+ Norah (shocked): Ratted out Drusa? Did she cause the fire to go out once?
	+ Aegidius (sweating): I think... I don’t know...
	+ Aegidius (panicking): A few days ago, I had come to the temple after having an oil bath and I found that the fire was gone!
	+ Aegidius (shocked): There was only one person in the temple- Drusa, and I saw her creating another flame!
	+ Aegidius (blushing): Drusa saw me and she begged me not to tell anyone about what I saw and that if I did I would responsible for getting one of the virgins flogged, or worse- killed!
	+ Aegidius (covering his face): I knew it is wrong to stay silent, but I didn’t want anyone to die so I followed what Drusa told me and kept quiet.
	+ Aegidius (crying): But maybe I shouldn’t have! Maybe if I told the others about what I saw, Vesta wouldn’t be punishing me right now!
* Fix torn papyrus roll (1 star; Pre-request: Investigate the chancel)
	+ Norah (glad): Good job, Marie! Now lets send the roll to Kaleb!
	+ Kaleb (curious): Norah, when you and Marionette spoke with the victim’s fiancé, how did he react to her death?
	+ Norah (crossing her arms): Pretty careless if you ask me. He reacted to her murder as if she’s a random lady he met at the store. Why are you asking this?
	+ Kaleb (serious): Because what you gave me are divorce papers that he had saved up!
	+ Norah (shocked): Divorce papers?! But they didn’t even marry, why would he have these with him?!
	+ Norah (serious): You’re right Norah! That is fishy, we have to go talk to him!
* Ask Sussus why he has divorce papers on him (1 star; Pre-request: Fix torn papyrus roll)
	+ Norah (crossing her arms): Sussus, you’ve asked for Drusa’s hand of marriage but as far as we know you haven’t tied the knots yet, so why do you already have divorce papers with you?
	+ Sussus (grinning): Remember when you said I didn’t come across as the marrying type? You’re right, I’m not the type of guy who settles down, I’m the type of guy who takes a girl for one night and once I get what I want, I immediately hop for another girl!
	+ Sussus (innocent smirk): Drusa caught my eye, but she couldn’t fuck me because of her vows and I wasn’t going to wait 10 years just to get with her, so I asked the temple to let me marry her so we could “get it on”.
	+ Sussus (smirking): But obviously I wasn’t planning to stay with her, so once we fuck I plan to hit her with the divorce papers!
	+ Norah (confused): So you’re willing to get into all this mess just to fuck a girl? You’ve got a lot of dedication for someone you don’t plan to spend your life with!
	+ Sussus (excited): Yeah, but Drusa isn’t just any girl! She’s a Vestal virgin and if I managed to seduce and take away her virginity, this would boost my reputation as a total ladies’ man!
	+ Norah (stumped): Have you thought about how she’d feel after all this?
	+ Sussus (shrugging his shoulders): She’d be grateful that I got her out of her service, and it’s not like we would work out anyway. I’m an atheist and she is like hella religious!
	+ Sussus (crossing his arms): Besides, her brother hates my guts and didn’t approve of our engagement.
	+ Norah (curious): Livius didn’t want you to marry his sister, but why?
	+ Sussus (eye rolling): Some old drama we had back at our adolescence, I hoped we’d have moved past it, but it seems like some people just can’t get over the past!
	+ Norah (shocked): Marie, if Livius didn’t approve of his sister’s marriage, this must’ve caused a lot of tension between them!
	+ Norah (serious): We need to go talk with him, to know the drama better in his perspective!
* Ask Livius why he didn’t want Sussus to marry his sister (1 star; Pre-request: Ask Sussus why he has divorce papers on him)
	+ Norah (curious): Your Majesty, we’ve spoken with Sussus Amogus and he told us you didn’t approve of his engagement to your sister. Care to explain?
	+ Livius (furious): I have many reason of disapproving of this match, but to begin: HE’S A FUCKING PIECE OF SHIT!
	+ Norah (thinking): He’s a bit cocky and is a womanizer, but aside from that he seems chill to me.
	+ Livius (pissed): You don’t know him the way that I do, he’s a bad bad person and I have many stories to prove it!
	+ Livius (shocked): Twelve years, I was enjoying an oil bath at the bathhouse and he and his friends decided to steal my clothes!
	+ Livius (covering his face): I chased after them and he made me run all around the empire. Everyone in Rome saw me naked and I earned the nickname, Parva Galli because of this!
	+ Livius (serious): Another time, he got me in trouble at school for something he did and I was punished by after to work at the farm all evening!
	+ Livius (disgusted): The smell alone was enough to turn me vegetarian!
	+ Livius (pissed): There are many other things he’s done to me, but my point is, I hated him and I would never want him to be part of my family!

At the forum...

* + Norah (blushing): The victim didn’t seem like a bad person but she sure rubbed a few people the wrong way...
	+ Norah (crossing her arms): Anyway, it seems like we’ve got three likely suspects. Which is not good and we need to find something that’ll narrow it down...
	+ Norah (serious): Why don’t we look around the forum again? Maybe the killer dropped something while fleeing the crime scene!
* Investigate the fountain.
	+ Norah (curious): Marie, isn’t that the same headband the female virgins were wearing?
	+ Norah (glad): You’re right! The victim wasn’t wearing one when we found her body so that must be hers!
	+ Norah (curious): I see white fibers sticking out of the headband, I think we should collect them. Did you find anything else?
	+ Norah (thinking): An oil spreader? We know the killer takes oil baths so do you think they dropped it?
	+ Norah (serious): If so, we’ve got to hand it to Kaleb!
* Send oil spreader to Kaleb (Killer attribute: The killer is male)
	+ Kaleb (glad): Girls, I analyzed the oil spreader and I can confirm it’s the killer’s- I’ve found traces of the same vegetations I found on the victim’s body!
	+ Norah (smiling): That’s great, did you find anything else?
	+ Kaleb (crossing his arms): I found some skin cells, but unfortunately they’re too damaged to determine the killer’s identity.
	+ Kaleb (serious): All what I know is that they’re male!
	+ Norah (glad): So the killer’s male? That’ll held narrow down our suspect list, thanks Kaleb!
* Examine the headband (1 star; Pre-request: Investigate the fountain)
	+ Norah (glad): Now that we’ve got the fibers, lets have Kaleb analyze them!
* Send the white fibers to Kaleb (Killer attribute: The killer has white hair)
	+ Norah (curious): Kaleb, we’re you able to determine what those strands are?
	+ Kaleb (glad): Absolutely! The fibers you gave turned out to be hair strands!
	+ Kaleb (grinning): And since your victim is a redhead, they can’t be hers which means your killer must rocking a head of white hairs!
	+ Norah (grinning): So the killer’s got white hair? Seems like they’re stressed we’d figure them out! Lets write that on our notes!

Later...

* + Norah (glad): Marie, I think we’ve got all the evidence we need for an arrest. Lets go catch our killer!
* Arrest the killer (1 star; Guilty: Pontifex Franciscus).
	+ Norah (serious): Pontifex Maximus, you are under arrest for the murder of Drusa Livia!
	+ Franciscus (shocked): Me, a murderer? Oh heaves no! Why would I do such a thing, are you forgetting that I’m a priest?!
	+ Norah (crossing her arms): Being a priest doesn’t make you an honorable man, we found strands of your hair on the victim’s headdress!
	+ Franciscus (blushing): Everyone has white hair when they’re my age. That doesn’t make me a murderer, it could be someone else!
	+ Norah (stumped): If you’re not the murderer then why did we find your oil spreader near the temple?
	+ Franciscus (sweating): I must’ve dropped it while paying my visits. I’m telling you that I didn’t kill Drusa! Murder is a sin and I’m a priest for crying out loud!
	+ Norah (furious): Quit trying to use your position as a priest to shield yourself! If anything it makes you only the more suspicious since as a priest you should know spilling a virgin’s blood could anger the goddess which is why you chose to kill her in a way that spills no blood!
	+ Norah (confused): The question is why did you kill her? Is it because of her romance? If she truly gave her virginity away, you know you could’ve killed her legally?
	+ Franciscus (furious): This has nothing to do with HER sinful acts! I killed her to cover my own!
	+ Franciscus (covering his mouth): ...
	+ Norah (curious): YOUR sinful acts? Care to explain?
	+ Franciscus (covering his face): Goddamnit! Seeing that I’m in trouble already, I may as well say it...
	+ Franciscus (grinning): The truth is, I made it a happen foe myself to check on the virgins. You know, while they are changing...
	+ Norah (disgusted): You mean to say you were perving on the virgins?!
	+ Franciscus (nervous grin): It’s just an old man’s fan, I’ve been doing it for years and there was absolutely no harm in it!
	+ Franciscus (crossing his arms): Except that wasn’t what Drusa thought and when she caught me peeking at her fellow virgins, she called me all the names on the book and threatened to expose me!
	+ Franciscus (sweating): I knew if what I was doing came to light, I would be in deep trouble and I to stop Drusa from spitting it out!
	+ Franciscus (serious): At first, I simply wanted to discredit her, to make her accusations less believable, so I hired Vesma to spy on her to see she’d do anything that would be breaking her vow and perhaps I could have her executed before she could expose my acts!
	+ Franciscus (shocked): But then I hear her brother was names the emperor’s successor and I knew they was no way I could get rid of her legally!
	+ Franciscus (covering his face): At this point I was desperate, so when I heard she was alone in night duty, I decided to come to the temple to corner her...
	+ Franciscus (speaking): I knew if I spilled her blood I would risk angering Vesta, so I forced her to enter the sarcophagus and closed it, leaving her to die from breath loss!
	+ Franciscus (covering his face): I know what I did is wrong, but it was either me or her and I had no other choice!
	+ Norah (furious): That is not true! You had a choice! You couldn’t took responsibility for your actions and stepped down from your title, but instead you chose to kill an innocent girl just to hide your skeletons!
	+ Norah (pissed): And for that, we’re taking you to the crown prince to await your judgement!

At the imperial office...

* + Norah (serious): Your Majesty, we’ve got good news for you, we found your sister’s murderer!
	+ Livius (shocked): The Pontifex Maximus?! Are you sure you’re not making a mistake?
	+ Norah (crossing her arms): Certain. He can even tell you himself.
	+ Franciscus (begging): Your Majesty, I know you must be angry, but please have mercy on me! I swear that it was either me or he-
	+ Livius (covering his face): Centurions, take him to the dungeons...
	+ Livius (pissed): I’ll decide what I’ll do to you once I’m done with my coronation. For now, I’m stripping you off all your titles, you don’t deserve any of them after what you have done!

Outside the palace...

* + Norah (yawning): I can see now what Kaleb meant when he said Livius was too soft! I was really hoping he’d go on full-rage mode and chop the Pontifex’s head off!
	+ Norah (glad): But now that we arrested the killer, this finally gives us the chance to do what we came here for- Finding Atalanta’s prince!

## The Roman Empire (3/6)

* + Norah (serious): Now that we have the Pontifex locked up, we can finally focus on our true mission- The prophecy!
	+ Norah (crossing her arms): Hopefully there’s nothing to distract us this time. But the main issue right now is where we could find the prince?!
	+ Norah (shrugging her shoulders): We asked the gladiator show runner about him and he claims he doesn’t exist, so what are we supposed to do then?
	+ Shirley (blushing): I know this isn’t my prophecy, but I’ve learned about some information and I think it may help you with your quest...
	+ Norah (smiling): Really? Tell us what you’ve got!
	+ Kaleb (thinking): I apologize if I’m interrupting you, but there’s an old lady in the Vestal temple who wishes to speak with you.
	+ Norah (crossing her arms): That must be Vesma, I wonder what she wants from us. Shirley, we’ll come to you later.
* See what Vesma wants to speak about (1 star).
	+ Norah (curious): Vesma, you’ve asked for us?
	+ Vesma (curious): I was wondering if either of you have seen Aegidius around?
	+ Norah (confused): No?.... Why are you asking this?
	+ Vesma (pissed): Because he’s hasn’t returned to the temple after I asked him to summon Franciscus!
	+ Vesma (crossing her arms): I’ve spoken to the Pontifex prior his arrest and we agreed that the only way to appease Vesta is by punishing the priest responsible for putting out her fire...
	+ Norah (horrified): You’re planning to execute Aegidius?!
	+ Vesma (eye rolling): Gods no! Such a punishment is only put to practice against those who taint their purity!
	+ Vesma (serious): I only intend to strip him and give him a little beating!
	+ Norah (disgusted): Beat him? But he’s just a kid!
	+ Vesma (crossing her arms): I’ve beat up young girls who are almost half his age! The boy needs to be discipline to be taught not to make such an accident again! That is the only way we could please the goddess!
	+ Vesma: I’ve only asked you to come over to know where he could be find. But seeing that you’re unaware, you are free to go, I’ll send the city guards to look for him.
	+ Norah (serious): You won’t need to trouble yourself! We’ll go look for him ourselves and bring him to the temple immediately!
	+ Norah (covering her face): Marie, I don’t want Aegidius to be beat up either. But if Vesma sent the guards after him, he’ll be terrified! He’ll probably feel more in ease if we looked for him instead.
	+ Norah (thinking): Last time we’ve seen Aegidius he was at the basilica so that’s probably the best place to go look for him.
* Investigate the basilica (Pre-request: See what Vesta wants to speak about).
	+ Norah (shouting): Aegidius! Where are you!
	+ Norah (curious): He’s not responding, do you think he went somewhere else?
	+ Aegidius (shivering): Did... Vesma send you after me?
	+ Norah (sympathetic): Aegidius, there you are! We need to talk.
* Convince Aegidius to return to the temple (1 star; Pre-request: Investigate the basilica)
	+ Aegidius (worried): You didn’t answer my question! Did Vesma send you?
	+ Norah (sympathetic): Y-yes... I’m afraid they need you back at the templ-
	+ Aegidius (furious): GET AWAY FROM ME! I don’t want to go back! You can’t make me!
	+ Norah (warm smile): Aegidius, there’s nothing to be scared about! They aren’t going to kill you, I promise!
	+ Aegidius (panicking): But they are going to whip me! I’ve heard what the Pontifex told them to do!
	+ Aegidius (crying): Please don’t make me go back! I don’t want them to hurt me! I don’t even want to be a priest anymore!
	+ Norah (covering her face): This is a lot harder that I thought. What are we going to do, Marie? The boy is scared and we’d be cruel to take him back to Vesma!
	+ Norah (grinning): Wait... I think I have an idea, not sure if it’ll work but it’s worth a shot!
	+ Norah (innocent smirk): Aegidius, does the forum keep any wine around here?
	+ Aegidius (wiping his tear): Y-yes... Behind that door, there’s a cellar...
	+ Norah (disappointed): Shit! It’s locked!
	+ Norah (winking): Marina, I guess its time to put your lock picking skills to use!
* Unlock the cellar (1 star; Pre-request: Convince Aegidius to return to the temple).
	+ Norah (happy): BINGO! Now lets start collecting wine bottles!
	+ Aegidius (curious): What do you need wine for?
	+ Norah (grinning): What else? We’re going to close the temple down for good!
	+ Aegidius (confused): Huh?
	+ Norah (determine): You’ll see for yourself, just trust us!

Back at the temple...

* + Vesma (serious): Good gods you’re back! Where were you all this time?
	+ Aegidius (nervous): Uh...
	+ Norah (warm): It’s okay, just tell her...
	+ Aegidius (sulking): I heard what the Pontifex told you, and... I was trying to evade punishment...
	+ Vesma (angry): You selfish brat! You understand the danger you were putting this empire in?! A little beating is nothing compared to what would come!
	+ Vesma (holding a whip): Now take off your clothes! Let me give you some good beating!
	+ Norah (sympathetic): Your Holiness, the kid is still nervous about his punishment. Don’t you think it would be more humane if you give him more time to prepare. My sister and I will try and calm him down.
	+ Vesma (serious): Fine, but I expect him to be prepared when I get back in the temple! I don’t want to beat you child, but we must do and must be done to appease the goddess!

Alone at the temple...

* + Norah (glad): Finally we’re in the temple by ourselves. We can start now!
	+ Aegidius (confused): Start doing what? You didn’t tell what you planned to do?
	+ Norah (serious): And I told you you’ll see for yourself. Can carry one of those bottles?
	+ Aegidius (blushing): Sure...
	+ Norah (smirking): Alright! Time to light a fire!

Norah ignites a bonfire...

* + Aegidius (shocked): Hey! We aren’t supposed to do this! Vesma is going to be mad!
	+ Norah (confident): It’s okay, just throw that wine bottle to the fire and trust me!
	+ Aegidius (wary): O-okay..

Aegidius follows Norah’s orders and she starts praying.

* + Norah (praying): Ó Hestia, goddess of the hearth, we summon with this bottle of wine, please accept our offering!

Suddenly a lady emerges from the fire...

* + Hestia (eyes glowing): I am Hestia, the virgin goddess of the hearth, the right ordering of domesticity, the family, the home, and the state! Who here have summoned me!
	+ Aegidius (shocked): W-who is this woman?! She’s not a daemon, is she?!
	+ Norah (laughing): She’s not a daemon, silly! That’s Hestia, or you know her better as Vesta!
	+ Norah (bowing): It is I who summoned you, we are in need of your assisstance.
* Tell Hestia about what happened (1 star; Pre-request: Unlock the cellar)
	+ Hestia (warn): My greetings to you, mortal. You may rise!
	+ Norah (getting up): Thank you! I thought my back would break at any minute!
	+ Hestia (curious): You told me you were in need of my assistance. Is this about a family conflict or do you need my help to find a place to stay at?
	+ Norah (blushing): Actually neither, we summoned because we were wondering if you could help this boy...
	+ Aegidius (shivering): ...
	+ Hestia (warm smile): Hello there, my child. Come here, there’s nothing to be scared about, is there something you need my help with?
	+ Aegidius (nervous): Are you... Are you really going to make us feel your wrath?
	+ Hestia (chuckling): Of course not! I would never hurt anyone! My job is to help lives not end them!
	+ Aegidius (hopeful): So do you forgive me for putting out your fire?
	+ Hestia (confused): Pardon?
	+ Norah (blushing): I don’t think you quite understand what’s going on, so let me explain...

After Norah explains everything...

* + Hestia (horrified): And all this is happening under my name?!
	+ Norah (confused): You mean you had no idea about the Vestal virgins and what’s going on inside your temples?
	+ Hestia (furious): Of course not! Neither I or any of the gods respond to prayers made for our Roman counterparts! I would have never approved of such practices and I’m disgusted to know that many were enslaved and killed in my behalf!
	+ Norah (serious): Now that you are aware, there’s something else we’d like to tell you!
	+ Norah (covering her face): You see that kid? He accidentally spilled water onto the fire and because of this the high priestess plans to flog him!
	+ Norah (curious): We were wondering if you could somehow... save him.
	+ Hestia (serious): I can promise you that I won’t allow that madwoman to put a finger on this boy!

And like that, the goddess fades away...

* + Norah (shocked): Hestia?! Where did she go?!
	+ Aegidius (shocked): So that... That was really Vesta? Is she going to help m-

Suddenly Vesma and the virgins barge in the temple...

* + Vesma (impatient): Alright! I’ve given you enough time! It’s time to face your punishment!
	+ Aegidius (panicking): NO!
	+ Norah (serious): Aegidius, it’s alright! You’ve heard the goddess, she won’t let Vesma hurt you!
	+ Vesma and Aegidius (Vesma; holding Aegidius): Get back here! I won’t let you run that time. Now take off your clothes!

But before Vesma coukd strip Aegidius, Hestia emerges from the fire again...

* + Hestia (furious): STOP!
	+ Virgins (Virgin 2; startled): AH!!! W-who is that?!
	+ Hestia (eyes glowing): I am VESTA! the virgin goddess of the hearth, the right ordering of domesticity, the family, the home, and the state! Which one of you is in charge here?!
	+ Vesma and Aegidius (Vesma; panicking): Oh no! See?! This is what happens when you don’t accept your punishment!
	+ Vesma (nervous grin): My goddess! Please, allow me to speak...
* Stop Vesma from beating Aegidius (1 star; Pre-request: Tell Hestia about what happened).
	+ Vesma (bowing): Oh Vesta! Please forgive us! I know you must be angry about the fire, but we promise to make up for it!
	+ Vesma (serious): We’ve caught the kid who was responsible for putting it out and we plan to beat him! Unless you’ve got any other punishments in mind!
	+ Hestia (disturbed): NO! In fact, that’s why I came here! I want you to let that kid go!
	+ Vesma (shocked): Let him go? But goddess! He put out your fire!
	+ Hestia (serious): So? Light up another one! There’s no need to beat a child over it!
	+ Hestia (pissed): Those two nobles told me about the practices being done in the temple and I was disturbed! Laboring children for 30 years just to make sure a flame doesn’t go out? Killing priests based on claims about them losing their virginity?
	+ Hestia (sympathetic): I appreciate the love you are showing me, but I don’t expect anyone to endure such labors to receive my blessings! Especially when this lifestyle isn’t their choice to begin with!
	+ Hestia (serious): I demand that any priest who was signed up here by their parents to be let go off their duties, unless if they wish to continue serving me!
	+ Hestia (closing her eyes): And now, farewell...

Hestia then fades away...

* + Aegidius (hopeful): So, are you still going to beat me?
	+ Vesma (crossing her arms): I don’t see the point of doing seeing that the goddess did the trouble to get here...
	+ Virgins (Virgin 3; shocked): The goddess said we have the choice to continue serving her, does that mean we can finally leave?
	+ Vesma (serious): When you signed up here, you agreed to serve the goddess for 3 decades, your term is not-
	+ Virgins (Virgin 1; taking off her cap): Finally! Now I won’t have to worry about getting caught in orgies!
	+ Vesma (furious): WAIT! What did you say?!
	+ Norah (awkward grin): I guess our job here is done! Lets get out of here before a fight goes on!

* See what information Shirley’s got on the prophecy (1 star).
	+ Norah (curious): Shirley, you said you have information regarding the prophecy, can you elaborate?
	+ Shirley (blushing): While you two were investigating the virgin’s murder, I heard people talking...
	+ Shirley (awkward grin): They were gossiping about some “golden warrior” and according to what I heard, he has a fight set in the colosseum two weeks from now and they all were excited to see it!
	+ Shirley (shocked): I didn’t think much of it at first, but then I remembered your prophecy and immediately thought about letting you know!
	+ Norah (confused): Marie, you think that warrior might be the prince we were looking for? But why did Flavian not say a word about him when we’ve asked?
	+ Norah (crossing her arms): We need to know who that warrior is for confirmation! Maybe if we search the forum we could find something that would lead us to him!
* Investigate the forum (Pre-request: See what information Shirley’s got on the prophecy).
	+ Norah (curious): Marie, did you anything?
	+ Norah (crossing her arms): This looks like a poster, but unfortunately it was ripped apart...
	+ Norah (grinning): Do you the poster is for the Colosseum? Chance it may show us an illustration of the prince!
* Restore the poster (1 star; Pre-request: Investigate the forum)
	+ Norah (confused): The poster shows a lion chasing after two gladiators, but neither of them seem to be the “golden warrior”! The only golden thing in the poster is the lion!
	+ Norah (laughing): You think the “prince” in the prophecy may be the lion? Don’t be ridiculous!
	+ Kaleb (shocked): Am I hearing you correctly? The prince is a lion?!
	+ Norah (startled): Ah! For how long were you standing here?!
	+ Kaleb (serious): Shirley told me that you got into the guest. Anyway, I think I’ve got everything figured out, I’m going to the ship, come with me!
	+ Norah (shrugging her shoulders): Fine, I guess?
* Send poster to Kaleb (Pre-request: Restore the poster).
	+ Kaleb (searching bookshelves): Where is it?...
	+ Norah (confused): What’re you looking for exactly!
	+ Kaleb (glad): There it is!

Kaleb pulls out a book called *Greek Mythology for Schmucks*...

* + Kaleb (reading book): Oh yes! *The Golden Apples*...
	+ Norah (stumped): Uh, Kaleb... I know that you’re a huge nerd, but we have no time for storybooks!
	+ Kaleb (awkward grin): Just wait and hear me out! You’ll like the tale, believe me!
	+ Norah (eye rolling): Ugh, fine!
	+ Kaleb (reading the book): The tale talks about an Arcadian princess known for her strength, beauty and her sprint!
	+ Kaleb (raising his finger): Her father wanted her to get married and she agreed but with one condition! Whoever wants to wed her must win against her in a race!
	+ Kaleb (serious): Many men competed for her heart, but she won every race until one day, a prince from a faraway land came to her kingdom for her hand of marriage!
	+ Kaleb (thinking): Ultimately, the prince not only won the race, but the princess’ heart as well and so, they wed!
	+ Kaleb (eye rolling): But like most Greek myths, this one didn’t have a happy ending. In their way to the prince’s kingdom, the newlyweds decided to make love in a temple belonging to the goddess Rheya and as punishment she turned them into lions and had them pull her chariot!
	+ Norah (sympathetic): Damn, that’s rough!
	+ Kaleb (serious): The prince’s name was Hippomenes, and the princess’ was... Atalanta!
	+ Norah (shocked): WHAT?! Does that mean-
	+ Kaleb (covering his face): Yes, Norah. I believe your pet lioness is Atalanta. I’ve suspected it since I’ve heard of the story but that poster you find... I guess it confirms my suspicions...
	+ Norah (sad): So that’s why Atalanta was depressed! She must’ve felt her partner is in danger, that lion being kept in the Colosseum must be Hippomenes!
	+ Norah (pissed): I doubt Flavian will not us take the lion, must we have to save him! I’m going to the Colosseum!
	+ Kaleb (shocked): Norah! Wait-
	+ Kaleb (serious): Marionette, go after her! Catch up to her before she doesn’t anything foolish!

Outside the Colloseum...

* + Norah (worried): Where could they be keeping that lion-
	+ Flavian (pissed): Hey! No trespassing!
	+ Norah (nervous grin): Lord Lucretius! Exactly the man I was looking for! There something I’d like to talk to you about!
* Beg Flavian to show you the lion (1 star; Pre-request: Send the poster to Kaleb)
	+ Flavian (pissed): Look, I am busy training that weakling you’ve conned me into purchasing from you. So this has better be quick!
	+ Norah (sweating): We’re not going to take away your time, we promise!
	+ Norah (nervous grin): We heard that you have a show in two weeks which we are really thrilled about! So thrilled that we were wondering if we could take a peak at the lion! I heard that his fur is made of gold!
	+ Flavian (smiling): You want to see the lion? Sure, I’ll let you see it!
	+ Norah (excited): That’s great!
	+ Flavian (pissed): When you come to the show!
	+ Norah (confused): What? Why? Couldn’t you just let us see it now? What harm would that bring?
	+ Flavian (crossing his arms): Part of the show’s attraction is getting to see the lion in its beauty and glory. So unless you buy a ticket to my show, you won’t get this privilege.
	+ Flavian (serious): So you can come back to see it after a month!
	+ Norah (shocked): A MONTH?! But we can’t wait that long! I thought the show was in two weeks!
	+ Flavian (laughing): Ha! You got unlucky, the tickets for the upcoming show are sold-out, so you’ll have to wait for the next one! See ya!
	+ Norah (pissed): Damnit! There’s no way we’ll wait for that long! We don’t know how bad Atalanta’s health will worsen and there’s also a chance Hippomenes might be slain in the upcoming tournament! What are we going to do?!
	+ Norah (covering her face): I have to calm down. Maybe someone would be nice enough to give us their ticket, who knows? There must be something we could do!

**You are now experiencing the story in third-person view.**
It was now sunset and the team decided to go back to the palace with Shirley...

* + Shirley (curious): I heard you and Norah went to the colosseum, did you meet with the gladiator?
	+ Marionette (awkward grin): “The golden warrior” wasn’t a gladiator... He was actually a lion...
	+ Shirley (embarrassed): Oh dear! I had no idea, it looks like I led you the wrong path!
	+ Marionette (laughing): Oh, not at all! The prophecy itself was referring to the lion! He’s actually Atalanta’s mate!
	+ Shirley (relieved): Oh... So did you see him? How did he look? Was he gold like her?
	+ Norah (eye rolling): Unfortunately, we didn’t get to meet him! The lacista wouldn’t even let us look for him unless we bought a ticket to his show!
	+ Kaleb (eye rolling): Maybe that’ll teach you to be more patient! You can just go and rescue the lion without a plan, you could’ve got us in trouble!
	+ Norah (furious): How am I supposed to be patient when my best friend’s health is at risk!

The team continue arguing until they reach the door of the imperial office where they caught Nebet peeping through the keyhole...

* + Nebet (eavesdropping): ...
	+ Marionette (curious): What is Nebet doing, is she spying?
	+ Kaleb (whispering): Whatever she’s doing, I think its best to ignore her, we don’t want to startle he-
	+ Claudilla and Audenzia (Claudilla; serious): Nebet!
	+ Nebet (startled): Ah!
	+ Claudilla and Audenzia (Claudilla; pissed): What do you think you are doing?
	+ Nebet (sweating): N-nothing.
	+ Claudilla and Audenzia (Claudilla; angry): Doesn’t look like you’re doing “nothing” to me! If I catch you spying again, I’ll have someone cut your nose, now get lost!
	+ Nebet (panicking): Yes Milady!
	+ Claudilla and Audenzia (Claudilla; eye rolling): I don’t know where the palace brings these incompetent slaves-
	+ Claudilla and Audenzia (Audenzia; happy): Callicrates! You’re back!
	+ Claudilla and Audenzia (Claudilla; seductive smirk): Well, hello there! I sure missed having you around! Where have you been?
	+ Kaleb (blushing; smiling): We-
	+ Norah (eye rolling): My sister and I were at the market and some minor inconveniences held us back.
	+ Claudilla and Audenzia (Claudilla; eye rolling): I wasn’t talking to you, dwar-

Claudilla notices Shirley...

* + Claudilla and Audenzia (Claudilla; pissed): What are YOU doing here?!
	+ Shirley (covering her face): Oh shit...
* Explain to Claudilla what Shirley is doing in the palace (1 star)
	+ Marionette (innocent smirk): I hope you don’t mind that he brought Sherise with us. We found her while roaming the city and she decided to tag along!
	+ Claudilla and Audenzia (Claudilla; mocking): Does your master even know you are here? Maybe I should go ask him-
	+ Shirley (holding her anger): You won’t need to, because he doesn’t exist! I’m a free woman now and I came to do something I wished I’ve done a long time ago!

SLAP!

* + Claudilla and Audenzia (Claudilla; shocked; handprint on her face): ...
	+ Shirley (pissed): Entitled bitch.
	+ Claudilla and Audenzia (Audenzia; concerned): Milady, are you okay-
	+ Claudilla and Audenzia (Claudilla; furious): How dare you put your hands on me you Gallic skank! I’ll show you-
	+ Claudilla and Audenzia (Audenzia; restraining Claudilla): Milady, control yourself! You remember what Livius said, do not go hard with the help!
	+ Claudilla and Audenzia (Claudilla; angry): And who cares what your loverboy has to say! This isn’t his home, he does jot belong here and neither do you-

Suddenly the door of the imperial office opens...

* + Carolus (displeased): ...
	+ Claudilla (dramatic): Oh Carl! Have you seen what this Gaul did to me? Would you be nice and punish her for m-
	+ Carolus (pissed): Back off, Claudia! I’m not in the mood for your shenanigans!
	+ Marionette (wary): Commander, you don’t seem very happy. What were you and the emperor talking about?
	+ Livius (serious): Nothing.
	+ Carolus (angry): Nothin-
	+ Livius (crossing his arms): I think WE agreed not to discuss this any further, I’ve made my decision and it’s final!
	+ Carolus (holding his anger): ...
	+ Livius (blushing): And Audenzia. Can you come in my office, I’d like to talk to you privately.
	+ Audenzia (excited): I’m coming!
	+ Audenzia (whispering): I bet he’s going to propose to me!

Audenzia heads to the office, but stops...

* + Audenzia (remembering): Oh! I forgot something!
	+ Audenzia (handing invites): Lady Patricia, someone came to the palace to deliver those letters, I was asked to hand them to you and your brother.
	+ Marionette (reading the letters): Thank you...

Audenzia then goes in the imperial office...

* + Marionette (blushing): Oh my, oh my!
	+ Norah (curious): Who is it from?
	+ Marionette (sweating): It’s from... Villa Amoga!
	+ Norah (smirking): Amoga? Isn’t that Sussus’ nomen?
	+ Marionette (awkward grin): Yeah...
	+ Norah (grinning): Am I seeing a blush? Does someone here have a wee crush?
	+ Marionette (eye rolling): Oh shut up!
	+ Kaleb (crossing his arms): What does the letters say?
	+ Marionette (blushing): Well... He’s inviting us... to an orgy.

Meanwhile at Graecita, Zachary is at the docks chatting with Alex and Mary...

* + Alex (awkward grin): Just because you’re going on a date with her, does not mean you actually have to date her!
	+ Alex (blushing): You can just go through with it, and then once it ends tell her you’re not feeling it and hopefully you two would remain friends!
	+ Mary (shrugging his shoulders): Or he could just not show up! She’ll get the message eventually!
	+ Zachary (disgusted): You mean I should stand her up?! Absolutely not! Not only will it humiliate her but all our friends will see me as a douche!
	+ Alex (covering his face): Dude, I think you should just talk to her and tell her you don’t want to go. That is the most healthy option.
	+ Maylin (curious): What are you all talking about?
	+ Alex (smiling): Maylin! We didn’t see you here! Why don’t you come and join us for a chat!
* Ask Maylin what she’s doing at the docks (1 star)
	+ Zachary (curious): Maylin? What brings you here?
	+ Maylin (blushing): I came here to talk to you, but I couldn’t help but overhear your conversation and I’m curious on what’s this all about?
	+ Alex (eye rolling): Basically our friend here agreed to go on a date with a girl he doesn’t like, and now he’s desperately thinking of ways to backtrack, as he’s afraid it’ll affect his relationship with another girl who he has feelings for.
	+ Maylin (disappointed): So you’re seeing someone else... Already.
	+ Zachary (sympathetic): Yes. Do you have a problem with this?
	+ Maylin (covering her face): N-no, I’m glad you’ve moved on. It is selfish to expect you to wait for me.
	+ Zachary (curious): You said that you wanted to talk with me?
	+ Maylin (handing a letter): Yeah, it’s about a litter I got in my mailbox. I think the sender must’ve have thought we’re still living together as its addressed to you. I came here to give it you.
	+ Zachary (taking the letter): Thanks May. Hmm... It’s from Hasuro...
	+ Zachary (reading the letter): ...
	+ Zachary (panicking): Oh no no no!
	+ Zachary (covering his face): I’m doomed!

```
**Alex (curious): What does the letter say?

```

* + Zachary (holding his head): Hasuro is inviting be to the theatre to watch a play and Mia is performing in it!
	+ Alex (confused): And what’s the problem with that? Is Mia a bad singer?
	+ Zachary (blushing): Not at all! She is a great singer! The problem is!
	+ Zachary (panicking): It’s the same play Madelina is taking me to for our date!