For millennia, the sacred council of Moderatus has ruled the land of Escapia with an iron fist. It is the mightiest empire the world has ever seen, with disciplined inhabitants and faithful soldiers. And though the gates to its capital are open to anyone seeking shelter for the cold nights, respect within the citiy?s society must be earned through respectful behavior and a friendly attitude.
But today, the streets lay quiet. Even though the sun is high in the sky, barely a soul can be seen wandering around outdoors. For everyone has gathered in the royal courtroom, where a renowned citizen is about to face the wrath of the sacred council. The paladin of the Spanish Inquisition, Hubilub the Legend, has broken the city?s laws, and is about to be punished.
?We have reason to believe that you engaged a fellow citizen with intent to do harm earlier today,? said Councilman Jonathan Funk to the man standing in front of him. ?Is this true??
Hubilub knew that there was no point in lying. The council knew everything that happened. This was merely a test of character. And he had no intention of showing himself as weak.
?It is true,? he said with confidence in his voice. ?I engaged another citizen.? The crowd stayed silent, eagerly anticipating what would happen next. Councilman Babius Tea answered his response.
?If that is the case, then we are forced to sentence you to probation for 3 days. You will be closely monitored by the cities guards, and if you break the law again, we may have to put you under suspension. Do you understand?? He looked down on Hubilub from his throne, waiting for him to say something.
?I understand,? said Hubilub and bowed to the council. ?I have no objections to your sentence.?
?If that is the case,? said Councilwoman Labyrinth ?then you may leave this courtroom.?
As he walked out of the courtroom, his companion and long-time friend Furburt joined him.
?Can?t say that you didn?t have it coming? Furburt said with a smug tone on his voice. ?You should know better than to engage such fools.?
?Speak for yourself? Hubilub answered his gloating friend. ?If I?m not mistaken, you?ve had your fair share of probations in the past, not to mention your suspension.? As the gloating expression on Furburts face ran off, Hubilub couldn?t help to crack a smile.