ME-3 Riddle Without Answer

This is the first time you've shown, since that young acolyte of yours glared at me last week.

It's not easy, managing Endymion Temple and the rebuilding of the First Temple at the same time.

Folia is just worried that I'm overworked. She knows we've been friends since our priest school days.

Which made it all the harder to accept that I brought you trouble as soon as I got back, I guess.

Pallas...

I knew we were both in trouble when you showed up at Endymion Temple to have your dream interpreted as an ordinary Minoan instead of using the priests' passage, six months ago.

In most cases, divine revelation can be classified into certain common categories, whether it came in the form of a dream or a sudden vision.

I know. We learned them by heart at school, so ordinary priests without special talents could guide those who received revelations.

But the vision that you brought was not found in any classic tale... I had no doubt that it was a powerful revelation, which made me very uneasy.

Don't worry. We'll find a way.

You shouldn't have quit the priesthood. You might have been able to find help...

And hide my condition, continuing to be the legendary 'Goddess of Victory' on the border?

I didn't want to complicate things, even if another has taken up the title. Besides, the heroes came a long way to call me back. I had to be honest with myself.

...Looks like Rhodes Island has treated you well.

Of course. Did I ever tell you that I founded a 'Minoan League' on Rhodes Island?

Are there so many Minoans who left home to seek treatment?

There are plenty, although Erato and Vulcan are the only true Minoans in the league. The others are in it because they have a spiritual fascination with our country.

I'll introduce them, when we have a chance. They're all full of heroic spirit, with great passion for poetry, art, and brewing.

So you founded a drinking league.

That's one way to put it. It's not quite the same as having you around, though. You may not hold your drink particularly well, but no one in our year brewed better than you.

I remember how you tied up your sleeves and pounded the grapes like a seasoned winemaker at the intercollegiate conference. You looked amazing.

...

I see you have a craving. What happened to the formula I gave you?

I lost it when I went to Akroti. I finally escaped my torment when my Sarkaz bodyguard gave me the recipe for the secret brew of Kazdel.

I never worried you would have trouble making friends. First the Sarkaz bodyguard, now the Sargonian ambassador.

...

You heard about the fruit farmers and the craftsmen. Titi can be trusted.

I don't doubt Kyría Mashayer's cleverness, or her friendly outlook towards our country, but her position remains sensitive.

If I didn't stop you, would you have put her in charge of the play that we already discussed, in addition to the venue of the exchange ceremony?

Is it that you trust her too much, or...?

You're frowning again, Kassandra. I just let myself get a little lazy, having been away from the priesthood for so long.

You would never have become a legend in the borderlands, if you were the type to shirk responsibility.

I don't mind taking charge of the rebuilding project on your behalf. I just think it's a shame. You're better at dealing with people, and the craftsmen trust you.

I thought you made the proposal to the people so they would return to heroic tradition and remember the heroic spirit.

I did.

And that's exactly why it doesn't matter who's in charge.

Our people venerate the heroes, but they've gradually forgotten that Minoan prosperity was not only built by a few heroes.

'The heroes came from the people, from all walks of life.'

You could always read my mind.

I know what you're trying to say... but with the rebuilding of the temple entering its final stage, it's even more important than ever to have a supervisor.

I think we'll have one soon.

What is it?

I saw Lydia headed to the temple square.

What do you think this Astynomos, who has quietly been at odds with us from the beginning and is trying to take the play out of the priests' hands, is going there for?

We meet at last, Your Excellency Ambassador Mashayer.

And who might you be?

I'm the Astynomos of Athenius, called Lydia. I am overseeing this relic exchange between our two nations.

Oh! I'm so sorry, Astynomos. I should have visited you first thing when I got to Athenius. I didn't think...

You came into Athenius by the ancient route to follow in Kereseira's footsteps, didn't you?

There is no need to apologize to a Minoan for your love of our epics, our culture.

If anything, I should be thanking you for resolving the dispute between the fruit farmers and craftsmen. The rebuilding of the First Temple could not have proceeded so smoothly without you.

I simply did my part.

I believe you've already met Behnui? I take it the venue and details of the exchange ceremony have not been confirmed.

Correct.

Rather than do it behind closed doors in a private room, what do you think of holding the ceremony beneath the statue of Kereseira, to be witnessed by her and all of Athenius?

You want to hold the exchange ceremony at the First Temple square?

Yes. You are aware that I brought the most precious treasure of the Varjavandabad Museum, to be exchanged for the technical data that the Sargonians left behind during the construction of the Three Poleis.

It's a part of many heroic Minoan stories, and closely linked to Kereseira herself.

Seeing the completed statue on the square was an awe-inspiring experience. Her brave visage and the relic that I carry complement each other.

I understand that the exchange ceremony is supposed to begin with a classical play, in accordance with Minoan tradition. What better place to do it than the First Temple's new amphitheater?

...

Would that be a problem?

Oh, Kassandra from Endymion Temple reminded me that any use of the First Temple should be discussed with her...

Kassandra...

It's the Astynomos' Office's responsibility to lighten the burden on the busy priests by handling trivial matters. I'll communicate with her.

I was concerned about the lack of proper supervision in the rebuilding process because of the emulation of ancient methods, which has resulted in significant delays. I thought it might not be the most dignified of venues.

I don't mind—

However, all our problems could be solved if you are officially made the supervisor of the rebuilding project.

Say what now?

The rebuilding of the temple is entering its final stages. We've reached the point where decisiveness and efficiency are more important than careful planning.

I'm sure you already have a fair idea of what is going on, having befriended the craftsmen and solved their issues.

Besides, I understand that you received an advanced education in museology in Columbia, including studies in architecture.

Putting the finishing touches on the temple and readying it for opening shouldn't present too much difficulty, should it?

I mean, it's true that I designed and supervised the expansion of my museum, but it's not nearly as big as this temple...

Besides, is it really appropriate for a Sargonian ambassador to supervise the rebuilding of the First Temple?

Your request that the exchange ceremony take place at the First Temple is ample proof of your understanding of the relic and Minoan culture.

I am in full support of your proposal, and I'm sure the ever-considerate Kassandra won't object.

But...

I didn't expect the ambassador to be such a polite and humble young lady.

Períandros?

Greetings from Corinia, land of trade and merchants, Your Excellency Ambassador Mashayer of Sargon.

I am here as Corinia's representative to the exchange ceremony, at the Astynomos' request. I happened to overhear your conversation and couldn't help but stop to listen.

May I ask you a question—would you participate in the rebuilding of the First Temple, if your status were not a concern?

Of course!

It would be a great honor to participate in the restoration of such a wonderful example of Minoan architecture, not to mention the knowledge that could be gained! I would be delighted just to hew one piece of marble for it!

In that case, why trouble yourself unnecessarily?

Trouble myself... what?

I have a little suggestion that might solve our present problem. As I see it, the two of you are in full agreement, but for this little issue of Ambassador Mashayer's status.

It's a sensitive issue, and Ambassador Mashayer's concerns are certainly well-founded. On the other hand, the Astynomos here is seeking a capable supervisor who has the support of the people, in order to keep the temple project on track.

What better way to resolve this than Minos's most ancient process?

You mean...?

A vote.

A referendum held on the First Temple square. Let the citizens of Athenius participating in the rebuilding decide whether to accept Ambassador Mashayer's supervision or not.

...She's really the Sargonian ambassador.

Travesty! The theater of Kereseira's First Temple was not built to host a diplomatic farce!

That Sargonian said she brought a relic in exchange for the technical data from the Three Poleis? I knew that cargo didn't feel like movie figurines.

The shape, the weight, and its relevance to Kereseira... could it be...?

The gall! To use stolen Minoan treasure to buy Minoan trust!

Not if I have anything to say about it...

Great Kereseira, gentle and brave, not even the night can hide your splendor.

You brought us a wise duo to solve our troubles and help us build your temple.

The insects sing the song of your harp, your laurel is woven into the shape of victory, and the moonlight—

Oh, sorry, it's not moonlight that shines upon you, but the spotlights that we installed last week.

(Hearty drinking)

...

Don't drink too much. We're here to vote, remember? You don't want to hurt your hand engraving your ostracon.

Of course I remember! I'm here to vote for Titi!

I almost fell when I was working on the statues by myself in the temple. I wouldn't be drinking here right now if Titi didn't save me with her Arts!

Uh...

You don't believe me?

Let me show you. I tripped over the statue's sash that trails on the floor, and then—

Whoa!

Look out!

See? Those ribbons saved my ass, just like that.

Oh, Titi! What are you doing here? Let's get a drink!

Pallas told me about a girl in the moving crew who's small but strong. She loves drinking and has a tendency to stumble.

But I didn't expect to see you stumble a dozen times in just three days, Kantia.

Thanks, Titi.

She doesn't hold her drink any better than the average Minoan, which is to say she's supposed to drink in moderation. But she has a drunkard's soul.

Hehe...

You need a swig, Titi?

Do I look that nervous?

Not on your face, but we've all figured out that your tail doesn't lie.

Mm...

Who's the guy under the scaffolds, wearing a leaf-shaped ring on his grey tail?

Serafim from the paint crew. He's only motivated when working with big, muscular dudes. Nobody believes him when he says he's just lazy.

What about the Elafia sitting in the corner, not talking to anyone?

Lefteria, from the sculpting crew. She always stays out of the sun. I've only talked to her a few times, but I know she's obsessive about her work.

That's more than most of us know about her. Most of the craftsmen barely know she exists.

I don't know about the others, Titi, but to me, you're one of us.

...!

Thanks, Manos.

Shouldn't you be comforting your friend? She looks nervous.

Comforting people is your job, Kassandra of Endymion Temple.

What Titi needs now is not the reassurance of a friend, but the support of the Minoans participating in the temple project.

Kyría Mashayer has been reciting her speech silently before those two craftsmen struck up a conversation with her.

She subconsciously clutches her tail whenever she trips over a word. Twice she accidentally grabbed her little pet instead, much to its annoyance.

You've been observing her carefully. I think you like her.

...

This alone is not enough to prove that she's worthy of trust. I just didn't want to surrender my own judgment to prejudice.

It didn't take you long to decide that she was the best choice to supervise the project. I trust your judgment.

Tonight, there is no shadow of confusion in those reflected in Kereseira's eyes. Everyone has made their decisions. They do not need the words of the heroes to guide their way.

I have some personal matters to attend to. Excuse me.

You're going?

The Astynomos might take the absence of the supervising priest from the voting as a form of protest.

My ostracon is already in the box. Besides, Lydia has no need for such blatant excuses, if she wants to pick a bone with the priesthood.

If the exchange ceremony takes place at the First Temple, then the ceremonial play to honor the heroes...

I'll talk to Lydia again, at least get her to defer to the priests when it comes to choosing the play.

But that's all for another day. Let's hope tonight's vote goes smoothly.

—Based on my experiences these past few days, once we solved the issue with the stone, I believe the structure is essentially complete and ready to welcome visitors.

It will be ready to open in a few days once we put on the finishing touches and complete the inspections according to plan.

There wouldn't be too much work to do to set up the exchange ceremony on the square. We'd just need to clear some room for the ceremony itself, and have a separate area for logistics.

We don't need to change anything with the rest of the building; it'll be ready to open once construction is complete.

I will create an actionable proposal based on my knowledge and experience overseeing construction projects.

If I'm elected, we will work together to complete the wonder that is Kereseira's First Temple!

...

Such a lively sight! It seems this Kyría Mashayer has made a lot of friends in a short time.

It would undoubtedly be a massive boon to the friendship between our two countries, not to mention the temple project, if she's elected.

What do you want?

I'm not sure what you mean. I'm here to attend the ceremony, at your invitation.

A son of Corinia's merchants just happens to pass by as I am talking to the Sargonian ambassador, and casually drops a solution to the problem at hand that leads to tonight's vote.

Was this all Kereseira's will?

Why not?

Tradition dictates that any Minoan who has received the heroes' blessing must visit a temple the following day to declare it before a priest.

But you will not seek Hiéreia Kassandra no matter what, no matter how close the Astynomos' Office is to Endymion Temple, will you?

...

You're crossing the line, Hiereús Períandros.

You know as well as I do that the election of Kyría Mashayer will be more than just a feather in your diplomat's cap. Your foremost concern will always be Minos itself, as it is for me.

Speak your demands. You can spin all the words you want, but I will not assent before seeing the terms and conditions of the deal.

Have patience, Honored Astynomos.

Reputation is the most important thing in business. And I will bring my business to you personally, once the dust has settled.

It's not that time yet.

...

In accordance with tradition, please etch 'Yea' or 'Nay' onto the ostracon you are holding.

Then, place it in the box face-down.

We will tally the results once everyone has cast their ostraca.

If more than half the votes are in favor, Titi... Kyría Mashayer shall be named supervisor of the temple project, until the exchange ceremony is completed.

Begin.

...

Hah. What a joke.

Is this the year 1100?

I thought maybe we were at the turn of the millennium, and the Sargonians had come back to rule us.

...

The war is over, Megas.

For you, maybe. Not for me.

The hated Sargonians continue to hound me in my darkest dreams.

I wish I were as forgetful as you. But our heroes tell me in my dreams that I must not forget.

Did a priest interpret that for you?

...

No. But these recurring dreams are the heroes' voice. I alone know their will.

I will never smile and work alongside a Sargonian.

I will not stand for it, no matter what good things you may say the Sargonian has done.

...

Everyone's gone, and the lights are out. How long are you planning to keep yourself curled up here? That Forte girl and the craftsmen were worried sick about you.

What are you gonna do, tell them to go on holiday while you fix the temple overnight with your hands and ribbons? That'll make things square, will it?

...

I've been circling your feet and winking at you for ages. It never occurred to you to look down? Never noticed that something wasn't quite right?

Did you notice that a-hole deputy excusing himself from the voting ceremony and distancing himself from the whole thing? Did you notice the words 'ulterior motives' written all over that Astynomos? No, you just couldn't resist jumping into the grave that's been dug just for you.

Now look where it's gotten you.

...

Really? You're crying over that? I can't even tell you how many times I've seen it in the City of Gold, where licking boots and stamping on faces is as much a part of everyday life as eating and shitting.

Besides, I doubt you're crying for the people who used you.

I told you when you got the padishah's assignment that it wasn't gonna be a pleasant vacation.

The scars of history that run deep, the Minoans who are still recovering from the pain, and your position as the ambassador of Sargon, all serve to remind you that it is not just an exchange of relics that you have to deal with.

...

Furry makes one happy. Your words.

I give you special permission to stroke my tail, fluff the hair on my back, or wipe your tears on either.

...

Actually, I take back the last one. I hate getting wet.

Why did I even pick a trouble-making little thing like you? Now I'm on consolation duty.

Heh...

If I am really so fragile, you wouldn't have picked me when you left the Grand Bazaar, would you?

Just this one time to lift your mood. Don't you dare get carried away.

Thanks, Mio.

Feeling better?

Yes. Some people voted for me. It means they trust me and have hopes for me.

Manos called me one of them.

People don't always get along, even in the same family. And I'm in a country that was deeply hurt by Sargon in the past.

I'm not a hero of legend. I can't miraculously solve everything with a song, a poem, or a speech.

What I can do is to get Kereseira's First Temple completed as soon as possible, and return to the Minoans, to Kereseira, the things that belong to Minos.