Subira's Dialogue

Members of the Order must give up all familial ties when they join. I have not seen my family in a very long time.

It may seem harsh... but we are the only Majiri in the Republic authorized to use Flow. It is a grave responsibility.

Limiting ties is one of the many ways we keep the public safe. Imagine your father or brother came to you, asking you to bend the rules for their sake.

All it takes is one mistake, and one power-hungry relative, for disaster to strike.

I grew up on a farm, much like the Daiya's. I admit, every time I pass by on patrol, I wonder what my parents are doing now.

Do they struggle to make ends meet? Has the harvest gone well this year? Does my mother make jam, like Delaila does?

Do they ever think about me, and wonder the same things?

...A-ahem. I should get back to work.

The... Order forbids romantic relationships. We are meant to keep our hearts dedicated solely to serving the Republic.

Love is a distraction- and one that often causes those afflicted to suffer lack of judgement.

I am not bothered by it. I am proud to sacrifice, so that you may be safe to open your heart to another.

I have visited the memorial in Bahari Bay a few times since I came to Kilima.

As a member of the Order, I must feel the responsibility of Flow's destructive power more strongly than most.

It is an important remember of what could happen should I stumble.

It is said that Ancient Human cities were works of engineering marvel, and that your people could build paradise in a day at the height of their power.

Seeing how swiftly you built a house for yourself, I am starting to believe it.

Cartel activity has been increasing across the Bay as of late. Including illegal trade with Palian Majiri.

If you have any information about that, I would like to encourage you to come forward before you get caught red-handed.

My title under the order is officially Watcher Subira. There are other roles to be played, but mine is essentially to observe and enforce the laws of the Republic.

Typically a Watcher is accompanied by a Defender. The purpose of sending two members out in the field is so that we may keep each other accountable.

Where is my Defender? Ahem. That is personal.

You may think the Order strict for regulating the use of Flow so harshly.

But there are many records of the devastation caused by unregulated use before Unification.

Had the thirteen kingdoms not signed the treaty and ceased fire, there may not have been a Kilima Village standing here today for us to meet in.

The Order breeds our own sernuks to pull the carriages. They're a variant of the Proudhorned Sernuk you may spot in Bahari Bay.

The sernuk stands for honor, tradition, and longevity. Good things for any organization to strive for.

I was... six or seven when I came to the Order. The story is the same for a majority of the potential Initiates.

Every year, the Grand Luminary does a tour of the provinces and calls for new recruits.

Many are orphans, looking for a new life under the Order. But others...

Well, others are volunteered by their parents.

I know I should not, but I often wonder what mine were thinking as I rode away in an Order carriage. Knowing they would never see me again.

It is an honor, of course, to be accepted by the Order, but...

...It's no matter. Such thoughts are not productive.

It is easy to look at the Cartel and wonder what exactly is so bad about them. After all, most of their business activities are perfectly legal.

But they are not a kind or benevolent organization. You need only look at how they treat their own members to see this.

Piling debt upon a young Grimalkin's head until they are drowning in it. Blackmailing and manipulating in order to force servitude upon lower ranks...

And that is before we get to the arms dealing, the thievery, and the ransoming.

The Cartel's face may be fluffy and cute, but their actions are anything but.

The Cartel Trade Wars were not, in fact, a war in the traditional sense. They were a series of assassinations, court battles, and political smear campaigns.

Many members of the First Council were deposed, and many Cartel leaders arrested. It was a time of chaos.

The wars ended with the landmark case Sunsnatcher v. the First Council, where the Unification Treaty was appended and the existing Flow laws applied only to the Palian Majiri.

These days, the Order usually only intervenes when a Cartel member has been proven to engage in outside Flow trading with a Palian Majiri.

After the Cartel Trade Wars, the Unification Treaty was amended to specify that only Majiri are outlawed from the unregulated use of Flow.

At the time, the wording was intended to allow Grimalkins and Galdur to continue engaging in their cultural practices.

Because of their legal loophole, Humanity too is free to use Flow... as long as they do not trigger the "Mass Destruction" clause worked into the Treaty.

The Temple of the Flames. A dangerous place to wander... but I trust you are taking the right precautions.

One has to wonder what secrets it holds from your peoples' past. What lessons are there to be learned?

...I would very much like to see it myself, one day. Perhaps you can accompany me.

The Order was founded over four hundred years ago as a result of the Palian Unification Wars.

Regulating the use of Flow was one of the conditions for peace. There has been an armed conflict between the thirteen provinces since the Order was formed.

Kilima is not the only village where Humans have been reappearing. The Order has dispatched Watchers and Defenders to settlements all across the Republic.

I understand they have appeared outside the Republic as well. Intel from Umbraa states they've settles Humans within their borders.

As a Watcher, I have had the chance to visit many different parts of the Republic.

It makes me proud, that thirteen very different regions can remain unified and peaceful despite the differences that separate us.

...Except for when it comes to Roundball. I am not sure I will ever truly understand how seemingly reasonable people can lose it all over a rubber children's toy.

I enjoy the missions that send me out to the quieter parts of Palia like Kilima.

When I return to the Capital, I am rarely able to get a moment to myself. The Order Headquarters are always brimming with activity.

It occurs to me that I haven't asked you much about yourself. This is an oversight I would like to fix.

...Unfortunately, the Order doesn't train us much in the art of conversation, only interrogation. Return later and I'm sure I'll have thought of something.

Delaila shared some of her "Prize-Winning Jam" with me the other day.

I'll admit I am not one for sweets, but perhaps I could make an exception. It certainly lives up to its name.

Those not well versed in the use of runeworking and Flow often misunderstand what it can do.

One cannot simply wish something and let Flow do the rest. One must have a runestone carved with the appropriate runes to enact the results one wishes.

Every "spell" one casts has an associated energy cost that must be paid.

Though members of the Order are permitted to use Flow in the line of duty, it is intended to be the last defense, not the first.

We are trained in myriad methods of conflict resolution, and expected to exhaust all other options first before resorting to magic.

Once a month, Order members report to a field office to tally their issued runestones and account for every one spent.

I understand you are responsible for awakening the Temple of the Waves.

You need not worry. The ruins around here are part of your heritage.

I do not want to believe the Order would punish you simply for wanting to know more of your own people.

Ashura was telling me about his family last night. I wasn't aware he had a granddaughter.

She sounds lovely. I hope he will be able to visit them soon.

It is not unusual to see Galdur in the Capital, but quite rare to see more than one among the more rural communities of the Republic.

There must be something in Kilima that sets them at ease. Perhaps I will ask Einar about it.

The muujin is a very interesting creature. When threatened, it will flee into the nearest tree to recuperate and return stronger.

Perhaps they would make a good target to hone your archery skills.

Every night I take a cup of tea and go over the evidence I've gathered that day.

Recently, Ashura has been joining me in silence. It is... pleasant, to have company without the pressure.

He is a good man. Kilima is lucky to have him. Even if he may not believe that himself.

I hope you have had a productive day, Player.

Your constant desire to improve inspired me to try and pick up a new skill.

Unfortunately, it seems carpentry does not come naturally to me... still, I will keep at it. I find the challenge pleasantly distracting.

Members of the Order have a Path Declaration Ceremony like any other Majiri.

When we graduate from Deputy Mages into the specialization of Watcher, Defender, or Alchemist, we'll declare our intent.

The Grand Luminary even gives a short speech in front of everyone. It was one of the proudest moments of my life.

Of course, there is no celebration or feast. That would be a frivolous waste of taxpayers' money.

Casting "magic" as one might call it requires the use of runestones- special Flowstones inscribed with runes that perform specific functions.

The Order sources most of our raw Flowstones from the Kingdom of Umbraa, and inscribes the runes ourselves.

The regulation of Flow is a complicated topic with many nuances.

For example, it is not illegal to own naturally occurring Flow-infused material.

It is, however, illegal for Palian Majiri to use said material as fuel for magical functions.

Though you did not join the Palian Republic in a traditional way, you are a citizen nonetheless.

Anyone born on Palian soil, no matter their color, shape, creed or...age of emergence will be protected by the Order.

Should you encounter any trouble during your adventures, simply say the word.

The Order exists for the protection of all Palians, yourself included.

Flow trees are a natural part of the Palian ecosystem. Groves often sprout up in places where the concentration of Flow is densest.

You will need some allies if you plan to harvest the wood for yourself. Even the strongest axe cannot take one down alone.

I studied Palian Law for over a decade before I was allowed to take my final test to become a Watcher.

It is important for those governing the people to understand the rules they enfore.

Before the Palian Republic was formed, the thirteen provinces were thirteen sovereign kingdoms vying for power.

It was a chaotic time for all... Thankfully, the kings and queens responsible saw their folly, and willingly gave up power in the pursuit of peace.

Thus, the Palian Republic was formed, and the thirteen provinces flourish under renewed trade and peacekeeping negotiations.

The Order is an important part of ensuring those negotiations go well.

Many communities are wary when Order members come to town.

This is a good thing. Any organization with power must be held under the scrutiny of its people to remain upright.

I do not blame them for their apprehension, either. Most Palians will never have cause to deal with the Order in their regular lives.

There are roles in the Order for those that prefer not to work in the field. We employ many Alchemists in order to supply our Watchers and Defenders, for example.

I will be the first to admit that I have little skill in the ways of alchemy. I leave that sort of thing to the experts back at base.

I noticed more pests have been gathering around the Daiya farms than usual lately.

There is nothing in the natural environment that would cause them to surge like this... which leads me to believe something unnatural is causing it instead.

Tau came up to me today and dropped a ball at my feet. I believe he was asking me to play fetch.

...I admit, I took a moment out of my patrol to give it a few good throws.

Even I am not immune to the plumepuppy eyes.

I believe I just saw Elouisa passing by.

Every time she sees me, she makes this strange expression and begins rapidly winking at me.

...I have yet to work out what it means.

You have a bias towards action that is quite valuable in a partner, Player.

Keep trusting your instincts, and know that I will have your back.

I have been trying to educate myself on the history of Kilima Village, now that I will be spending quite a bit of my time here.

It was apparently founded by the Kilima family as a trading hub for the historic nation of Bahari.

Perhaps the re-emergence of Humanity will revitalize this place once more.

Delaila convinced me to subscribe to the Bahari Times for their crossword puzzles.

They're a fine way to keep the mind sharp, and stay up to date on current events.

I find myself looking forward to doing them every day before I begin patrol.

I have worked with many contractors in my time as a Watcher, but none have been as competent as you.

If only I could bring you with me on all my missions.

I have been advised by Ashura that I should look into taking up a hobby while I am here.

I am not sure when I would find the time... or what I would want to try.

If you see a dari clove while you are exploring northern Bahari, I suggest you collect it. They're quite rare, and useful for a variety of mundane cooking as well as alchemical needs.

Ah, Player. Ahem, I made too much congee earlier. I thought perhaps you would appreciate a bowl.

Eat it while it is still warm.

The Order's Headquarters are located in Makuu City, though most citizens simply refer to is as "The Capital".

It is the largest populated area in the Palian Republic, and the most diverse.

Many citizens leave their provinces to try and find fortune in Makuu City.

Perhaps one day you will be able to see it for yourself.

It is... refreshing to be stationed in a place so untouched by conflict.

From what I understand, the most tension one experiences in Kilima is coming second place at the local jam competitions.

You would have done quite well in the Order, I think.

This job demands much of you... and I have no doubts you could rise to every challenge.

Sifuu mentioned during dinner the other night that she has been finding rather valuable stones while mining lately.

Starstones, I believe they are called. Perhaps you'll have some luck next time you take up your pickaxe.

From speaking to your archaeologist, I understand that Kilima is located in the ruins of what may have once been part of a large human settlement.

Indeed, when I entered the Valley I could feel the ambient Flow that has settled there. It makes sense Ancient Humans were drawn to the are.

One cannot simply wish something and let Flow do the rest. One must have a runestone carved with the appropriate runes to enact the results one wishes.

Every "spell" one cases has an associated energy cost that must be paid.

The Order provides rations for all members currently out in the field.

They are designed to be shelf-stable and nutritionally dense. Flavor is often an afterthought.

I've developed an iron stomach over the years... but even I'll throw their packaged veggie omelette out when it comes into rotation.

Some things simply aren't meant to be consumed.

The last mission I was on took me to the Flamewynde Isles, a volcanic chain in the East Bahari Sea.

A self-styled Queen of Pirates, Pari Butterfiend, was attacking Palian trade vessels passing through the area.

She kidnapped the daughter of a First Council member, and I was sent to extract the hostage.

As I am sure you can imagine, my current assignment is a very different change of pace.

Auni asked me what my favorite color was yesterday and... I did not have an answer for him.

I spent so much of my life focused on my duties that I am beginning to realize... I have not focused much on myself.

I'll need to think about this...

I think that... my favorite color is yellow.

The color of the sun, and of fresh flowers in the field. Bumblebees, pollen, new spring leaves...

Yes. I believe I enjoy yellow the most.

...A-ahem. I should get back to work.

I do not usually long to return to a place once my mission has taken me elsewhere...

But I think I will miss Kilima, when it is time to leave.

When I first came to Kilima, I was not expecting to be so... comfortable here.

Somehow, it feels like returning home after a long time away.

I will miss it, when it's finally time for me to leave.

Jina's Galdur friend reminds me of someone I knew back in my Academy days.

Their Oneness in law enforcement made them a natural fit for the Order's mission.

It's been a while since I've had the pleasure of working with a partner.

I forgot what it was like, to have someone I trusted at my back.

I won't take it for granted, Player.

My investigation took me to the Phoenix Shrine earlier. The very air there hums with Flow.

It is curious. What could have awoken such ancient ruins after so many aeons of dormancy?

I know you can take care of yourself, but I still worry about you out here all alone. Especially with the beast...and some unknown temple intruder...marauding about.

There is nothing inherently wrong with having a love of soup. It is a perfectly fine food with excellent nutritional value.

I simply believe that some things do not belong in it, and Reth has apparently made it his mission to prove otherwise.

Initiates of the Order undergo something similar to your Acceptance Ceremony when we become a full member.

Instead of choosing a Shepp and eating delicious food, we are given a deadly mission and expected to save a volunteer hostage while facing off against our former comrades.

...Perhaps it is not as similar as I thought.

Ah, Player. How is your day going?

Would you tell me something about yourself? Ah, such as...

What is something you enjoy doing?

What do you know of the hunter, Hassian?

The more I spend time around this strange substance, the more I begin to feel...angry?

Not exactly angry, but a sense of righteous indignation. It's as if I want to destroy all those who've wronged me.

But then I think about the people who supposedly wronged me and...I can't think of anyone.

Perhaps I just need a break...

I hope you're having a lovely day, Player.

Your constant friendly demeanor inspired me to reach out to some acquaintances I've made in town.

Ashura, Elouisa, Delaila and I played cards together last night. Perhaps next time, you'll be able to join us.

You must be quite close with Zeki. I am impressed...

He seems like a hard man to get on your side.

I have been testing the limits of the Grimalkin nightlight you uncovered.

It is a very sophisticated piece of flowtech. When plugged in, it will dispell any illusions in place within a ten meter radius.

Of course, using illegal tech to fight illegal tech is the Order's job, not Zeki's.

It was a risk, asking you to join this investigation...

One that I would gladly take again, given the chance. You have been an invaluable asset.

I have been looking more into Zeki's past. Apparently he used to have an apprentice who worked with him on his many... "jobs".

But she has since disappeared. I wonder what caused them to have a falling out.

I have been looking into who could be running the Underground. In such a small village, it should be easy to narrow down the suspects.

Especially when two of them disappear mysteriously every night and keep winking when I ask them about their occupations.

...You needn't worry about me arresting any of your neighbors. I highly doubt the Adder Cartel's leader is located here.

I would like to investigate the lighthouse myself, but I'm afraid I would... stand out.

There are places you can go that I cannot, as a member of the Order.

I am beginning to wonder if Zeki is leading us to the conclusions he wishes us to reach.

I would not put it past him... but we have little choice, when there are no other leads to follow.

I have attempted to stake out the lighthouse when possible, but I've seen no one go in or out. If it is being actively used, they must have other ways to access it.

Well. I have seen many humans filtering in and out, but they have been excluded from the investigation for rather obvious reasons.

Your kind hasn't existed long enough to become a suspect.

I am still investigating the letters you found. I... have some theories, but I won't speak them yet.

Not until I know for sure. The implications are too much to throw around without proof.

I have been looking back over every interaction I've had with fellow Order members since you discovered those letters.

Were there signs I was ignoring? Have my actions been inadvertently making life worse for people?

I apologize if the story I told you about my childhood made you uncomfortable. Many tales of my past seem to bring people discomfort... so I have stopped telling them.

However, I felt that I could trust you with it. Somehow, the weight on my shoulders feels lighter than before...

I spoke with Kenli about his dealings with the Order. It appears he was under the impression he was doing "important Mayoral business" by delivering those parcels.

From my understanding of Kenli's character... I cannot imagine he knows anything about what is truly going on.

Still, I have asked him to inform me should any more of these requests arrive at his desk.

Auni informed me about his... curse. I took the liberty of giving him a quick check-up to ensure the effects had fully passed.

I also informed him about the laws surrounding stealing from protected historical sites.

Still, it seems he is unharmed. A lucky outcome to an often tragic tale.

I understand that the Ancient Fish has returned to Palian waters.

Time will tell whether it is able to adapt to the changed environment... and whether it disrupts the careful balance that has been established during its absence.

How long has the Order been working with the Cartels? For what purpose? How many of them?

It is not as if I can write to the Grand Luminary and demand answers. There is not telling how far this conspiracy goes.

It seems you are the only one I can trust. I... do not know what I would have done if I faced this alone.

I have heard that a kitsuu has shown itself to you. This is a great honor.

They are highly independent creatures. It is said they can see a person's destiny, and shy away from all but the most courageous.

You continue to impress.

Nai'o seems quite capable. Frankly I could say that about every resident of Kilima. Valley life requires quite a bit of hard work and resilience.

...He did forget to take his lucky acorn back, though. I'll have to return it next time I see him.

I know I should keep my emotions under control, but I find myself infuriated whenever I speak with Tamala.

Sadly, as much as I'd like to see her behind bars for practicing alchemy illegally, for now...I'm going to have to let it slide. She's too useful for the investigation.

After some thinking about it, I believe I may have figured out your odd behavior regarding Tamala.

Blink once if you're fine and twice if you're under a spell.

(You find you can't blink twice.)

I see...the spell is thorough, but I will find a way to unweave it.

I wonder about Ulfe. The other Umbraans all left the Elderwood, yet they left a child behind. Why?

Of course the question is purely hypothetical, there's no way you could know.

I have a sense it might have something to do with the Zendruu tree, or Echo, or even the missing staff...

The Order doesn't exactly have the best relationship with Umbraa, but I do know an ambassador through some official channels.

I'm going to see if the people who used to live here know anything about a missing child.

What do you think the Mirror Protocol is exactly?

You and the miner, Hodari, are close, yes? He smiles every time you are mentioned.

I have rarely seen him engage in conversation willingly... Unless the topic is you.

You are doing good work with Hassian regarding the chapaa problem occuring in this valley.

I cannot assist in an official capacity, as this matter is far outside the Order's jurisdiction...

But on a personal note, I will endeavor to help where I can, before the pests spread even further out of this valley.

The cook rarely stops talking about soup... and when he does, he talks about you, instead.

He is glowing with praise on both subjects.

...That is the one I made for you.

I... know there is nothing to link me to it, but seeing it on you still makes my heart race.

Perhaps in more ways than one. Still, you'll keep this our little secret, won't you?

I noticed you are close with Tamala. I haven't had much chance to speak with her since I arrived.

Perhaps you can help me gain an audience some time. I am sure there is... much she and I could talk about.

Here. A bowl of congee, to keep your strength up.

+ Congee (will be flavored depending on quest reward at end of Extravagant Expectations

Before I met you, I never considered bending the rules.

I know why they are in place, and what they are meant to protect. Attachment breeds vulnerability. Vulnerability can be exploited...

You... are not the first one to try and tempt me with flowers and chocolates.

In all my time traveling Palia, I have never met someone quite like you, Player.

It is against Order policy to engage in dalliances. But I suppose the rules say nothing of... simply chatting.

I... appreciate your gifts, truly. But I am afraid I have very little of my own to give in return.

Player! Good, it has not wilted yet. I saw this while out on patrol and thought of you.

I hope you will accept it.

+ Crystal Lake Lotus

Ah, Player. Is there... something you require?

Oh, Player. I was... ah, hoping to see you.

You have a... peculiar look in your eye today, Player.

I have never had a... friend quite like you.

I have not been able to stop thinking about our conversation since it ended.

I am afraid if I do not get these feelings under control, the mission will suffer.

And yet, I felt that the only way to do so... was to come see you.

What kind of feelings?

I should not name them. To do so may give them even more power over me.

But I-

I missed you. And I worried that the way things ended, you might keep your distance from now on.

That... is something that I would very much like to avoid.

Well. I have said it, and yet speaking it aloud does not change the rules I am beholden to.

No matter how we might feel, it cannot go any further than this. Best we cut it off at the pass.

...

Now then. I should return to my investigation.

I am glad we spoke. I feel much more focused now that we have cleared the air.

I will see you soon, Player. I hope the two of us can become... closer.

I... will be here, if you need anything.