Final Fantasy XII - Even a Stray has Pride

Part I: Childhood's End - The Election

Waldgott City, 684 (o. V.)

Cirla took a sip of tea and asked me to repeat my question.

'Well, I told you of what happened in Nabradia. It was a nice trip. But in the inn where we stayed, the woman showed us a portrait of Lady Ephedrine and Judge Zecht near Nabudis. I was just wondering why it was the Judge Magister who came to accompany her and not the Emperor', I said.

'The Emperor ?' Margit repeated. 'The Archadians would never let their emperor out of his palace!'

'That's right', Cirla confirmed while taking a cookie from the little plate on the bedroom's table. 'You know House Solidor did not reach the head of the Empire so easily. When they did, they enforced their control by enacting a series of laws – which we already studied – and created the Ministry of Law and the Order of Judges in the precise purpose of keeping their hands clean. So when it comes to travelling – to Nabudis or elsewhere –, the Emperor sends his wife instead – they say he bore no love to Ephedrine –, and assigns one of the Judge Magisters to her protection. Why Zecht? Because he used to wear many hats, including the one of Official Guard of Her Highness. I think the new Judge to hold this title is called Zargabaath. I believe that answers your question!'

He was about to take another cookie before his hand got slapped by his sister's.

'Yes, thank you', I said. 'How are the preparations for the election going?'

'Slow', Margit sighed. 'There have been so many controversial laws during this term that President Fördern is not sure to be reelected.'

'And he has many rivals. The longstanding challenger Free Republic party, not to forget the new outsider, Green Progress, that has distinguished itself recently by standing up to the government on the industrial issue', added Cirla.

'We haven't been much into politics, to be honest', Margit continued. 'But since our Father works in the Presidency's Office, things are different.'

'What about you, Noah? Who will you support?' asked Cirla.

I looked at each of them with a sort of amazement, then responded in a low tone:

'I'm not much into politics either. Even if I've developed a fond interest for law subjects, I never understood how they can be mixed with politics. Maybe it's because I've never approached a party.'

'Yes, that must be it', Margit said. 'It must be interesting for you to see how they work.'

I finished my cup of tea and stood up.

'Well, I've got to go. My mother told me Naria wanted to see me as soon as possible, otherwise she'll be mad at me.'

'Oh, so you have a date with her! Why didn't you tell us earlier, it's okay for us, we understand these things', said Margit with a wink, 'Especially Cirla'.

'Well, I wish I had a single date with my dear Doll', he said with an enormous sigh.

I told them goodbye and made my way back to the village.

I went directly to the Olszewski farm and greeted my friend as she was outside, feeding Book with Gysahl greens.

'Hey!' she said. 'I'm so happy to see you! Basch has come more often than you lately, and it has begun to annoy me. Listen! I want you and I to come to a special place. A very special one.'

My legs shivered as a million thoughts were crossing my head. She continued, while still giving the greens to the chocobo:

'What's wrong? I'm sure you will enjoy it. We've got a task to accomplish, and I will not feel relieved until we've done it.'