The guards escort Kareem from the sealed throne chamber only after the court physician confirms his wound can bear careful movement. Qiao Ren and Vey remain behind under guard.
the physician
Slowly, honored witness. The binding holds, but haste could reopen the injury.
They bring Kareem to a quiet imperial infirmary scented with cleansing herbs. The physician removes the blood-darkened dressing and examines the wound beneath lamplight.
Empress Xifeng
You defended me by your own choice. That act cannot become a new chain around you. I will not command what you owe afterward.
Archivist Shen enters with Xifeng, carrying the preserved witness tablet in a lacquered case. Its gold script remains steady, recording the attack without assigning Kareem’s consent to any future proceeding.
Archivist Shen
The tablet confirms Vey’s action and Qiao Ren’s office connection, but it records no lawful order for the assault. The distinction may protect the inquiry from becoming another weapon.
Empress Xifeng
When you are ready, Kareem, we must decide how your testimony proceeds. You may rest, speak privately, or let the record stand until you choose otherwise.
✓ Quest Accepted
Establish voluntary terms for Kareem's testimony
“"My testimony? Simple, I saw the knife so I moved. Not because you are the empress but because you are a person and I believe the all peoples should be able to live in a world where they shouldn't have to fear for their life when doing the right thing. That and I wouldn't be able to forgive myself if you were hurt when I I could have prevented it”
SUCCESS (Legendary Diplomacy, rolled +0)
Kareem Bishop
My testimony is simple. I saw the knife, so I moved. Not because you are Empress, but because you are a person, and people should not fear for their lives while doing what is right.
Kareem Bishop
I also could not forgive myself if you were hurt when I could have prevented it.
The infirmary falls quiet except for the physician’s careful work. Xifeng receives the words without interruption, while Shen’s hand remains still above the preserved tablet.
Empress Xifeng
Then I will record the truth as you gave it: not obedience, not allegiance, and not a debt claimed by my crown. You chose to protect a life.
Archivist Shen
Entered precisely. Kareem Bishop acted from personal judgment, accepting responsibility for the choice without surrendering his independence or granting the throne authority over him.
Empress Xifeng
Your testimony is accepted. Rest now, if you choose. Whatever follows will be asked of you, not taken from you.
Quest Complete
Establish voluntary terms for Kareem's testimony