~ PASSAGE 84 ~
A RADICAL IS ERASED

Aramil responded " My fair sir, I do not belong to your city and have been here for only a few days now. I was under the impression that this was a stable political environment since Pinedroi was a bastion of defense. So I assume you have a question or desire my help in this argument? Otherwise, one would not single me out or are you easily distracted?"

Teflar tensed as he witnessed his comrade become defensive with the incumbent man.
Radias laughed heartily and his eyes gazed through Aramil " I then greet you, bold one, to Pinedroi and will ask of you one question. We have a rich heritage of self-representation. Twelve councilmen run for election every five years and each represents a particular district with landowners in full support. Each councilman should, thus, represent their people's needs in a political forum. Does that seem fair?"

Aramil stepped forward towards the man in white " Well, bold 'yes', considering everything I have gone through so far. But if I answer this question, I require information from you regarding the location of Captain Metlivon." Radias allowed the wizard to approach by giving approval to his partner who tried to intercede " It's okay, Cadon."
The mage resumed " It is indeed the idea that an elected official do what is expected for those that he represents. However, if once in office he does not, then I would hope there is some type of method for those he represents to remove him from office in place of relying on the corrupted officials' own honor."
Aramil momentarily glanced at the councilman standing behind the podium. A displeased scowl crossed the leader's face as he watched the antics below him. " For if a corrupt official lacks the decency to step down from office for failing to look after the good of his people, then that person is truly corrupt. Then again, I could be speaking out of turn and one might say in ideal and practical terms. For I am sure those in public office in this bastion of defense hold personal honor above all; for without honor, I fear this city could fall. A little long-winded for you, good sir, but I wish not to step where I am not invited."
The crowd seemed mesmerized, perhaps even a bit puzzled to the conversation taking place, but tension was mounting nonetheless.

Teflar stepped out of view as Hosh replied " Ah hah, a sound mind speaks there Daza! Do you not recognize common sense?! Our people have been treated unfairly!" He turned to the crowd " Don't let this man get away with chaining our rights!!" The populace started to get rowdy and swarmed the podium where the councilman stood. Aramil was bumped back by the gathering and saw Radias's partner try and push back the rush. The podium was knocked over as curses rang throughout the plaza.
Suddenly, a bright flash burst in front of the dais! The crowd collapsed under the intensity and smoke billowed from the ground pouring into people's eyes. Screams and shouts echoed while the councilman was grabbed and wisked away by his bodyguards past the curtained partition. A minute later, the smoke cleared leaving a wide, open area on the steps below. There lay Radias Hosh, his white fabric quickly turning crimson.

Aramil raised his quarterstaff to block away the bumping of the trampling crowd. His eyes were dazzled by the bright flash and he swirled around trying to assess the mounting furor. " Summon a cleric! Get a cleric!"
Within a minute, Teflar, with shortsword drawn, broke through the throng to Aramil's side. "Great, just great!" he complained " I told you we should have left! Now we are caught up in something else that we don't need." The pair made their way over to the dead body of Radias Hosh. Teflar bit his lip in frustration while the Maragen Guard swarmed in from all sides to tamper down the riot.

Quickly kneeling beside the slumped man, Teflar placed his sword near the body and pulled out his healing kit. He checked Hosh for signs of life. " Aramil, watch my back while I work here. I'll not be poked by an overzealous guardsman who thinks I'm the one who did this."
The mage nodded " Get strips of cloth for a temporary bandage; perhaps to keep him alive."

Before the ranger could set to work, they were surrounded by a ring of fourteen militiamen who blocked any escape. A brawny, helmed spearman appeared over the ranger " You! A murderer in the plaza in broad daylight!" He ordered his police " Arrest these men!"