The applause is thunderous as the patrons of the theater stand for an ovation. The actors, each taking turns to bow, are feeling positively ecstatic at the gratitude of the audience.

When the applause finally subsides, the Cappacian Bard Bastione, and his companions offer several ear piercing whistles in support of the troupe. After, they head outside where the crowd has gathered to discuss the performance…

BASTIONE: (In a moderate Cappacian accent)
The quality of performers continues to improve. I have to admit, that play rivaled many I have seen in Cappacione.

HIS COMPANION: (Certainly Hestrali)
It should tour to Hestralia. It is there it would truly find the audience it deserves. The actors were not bad, but can you imagine an entire cast of Hestrali thespians?

BASTIONE:
I’d rather not.

HIS COMPANION:
You jest, but it would truly reach the pinnacle of artistry if it were cast entirely with us. We invented drama!

BASTIONE:
But have no skill with comedy.

HIS COMPANION:
A crude, and false assumption.

BASTIONE:
La vérité fait mal. I will give you that the Hestrali are some of the most over dramatic of all peoples, but how many are truly funny? La comédie belongs to the Cappacians.

HIS COMPANION:
Judging by your face, it is certainly true.

BASTIONE:
Touche, mon amie. But you should show me some respect. Did you hear? I am the new Valley Historian. Perhaps some little wart of embarrassment of yours finds its way into my reports. Ha! Then who will laugh?

HIS COMPANION:
I know you well, Bastione and have no fear. Though why anyone entrusted that job to you, I will never guess.

BASTIONE:
Is it not plain to see? I am the perfect one for the job, I spend most of my time writing songs, drinking in the tavern, and talking to strange people. I could not be a more perfect fit, monsieur.

HIS COMPANION:
Yes, your large nose is a perfect fit for your large head.

BASTIONE:
This I cannot deny.

HIS COMPANION:
So, what do you make of the opportunity to become a citizen of Stragosa? I can’t help but feel there is some sort of ulterior motive to the entire thing.

BASTIONE:
That’s your Hestrali blood talking. The rewards for taking the oath are impressive. Freedom to travel, my wards are well taken care of, respect. What more could you ask of a burgeoning city? The chance to serve as a true citizen with rights is unmistakably wonderful, don’t you think?

HIS COMPANION:
Perhaps. But I could do all of this on my own before without permission! Perhaps not legally…

BASTIONE:
You are looking at it the wrong way around. Citizenship is not simply about what you get out of it, it’s about all of us coming together for the greater good of our city.

HIS COMPANION:
Yes, yes. I know. You are a true believer. I have many questions.

BASTIONE:
Then ask them of the officials. Do not let stubbornness, or fear detour you from making the right choice.

HIS COMPANION:
Yes, yes, Bastione. You prattle on, and on. You are driving me to drink, mio amico. Care to join me?

BASTIONE:
Certainly, but we go someplace that offers Cappacian wine, I can’t stomach the cheaply made Hestrali stuff. It smells of a musty basement, and tastes like vinegar.

HIS COMPANION:
I should slap you with my glove for such an insult.

BASTIONE:
Duel over wine? I must demur. Your wine isn’t worth dying for. Ha!