Kai's Supports

Krista / Forrest / Trevor / Joshua / Taiga / Yumi / Asuka

Krista

C Support
Excellent work, Your Highness. Your swordsmanship has been improving steadily.
Thanks! You're pretty good yourself, as usual.
I believe we deserve a break after such a good spar.
Sounds good to me!
(Scene transitions to inside the castle.)
Say, I've been curious about something.
Yes?
Your sword skills are decent, but what about other weapons? I heard that Medeans of the royal bloodline are trained to use weapons of all kinds.
Yeah, that's true, but... Forrest tried teaching me how to use a lance. And back when Sam was around, he tried to teach me stuff about axes. And don't even get me started on magic. That went absolutely nowhere. Even though none of those things stuck with me, I was pretty decent with a bow back in the day. Though, it's been a while since I've used one.
The bow? Who taught you archery?
Oh. Um. Prince Ervan, actually...
Ah, the late prince of Fuegsol, was it?
Y-Yeah... Um, anyway! I gotta, uh, help Forrest with a thing! Talk to you later!
(Krista leaves the scene.)
Hm... So those rumors I heard... Was there some truth to them after all?

B Support
So that's how arranged marriages work in the Medean royal family... Fascinating.
(Krista enters the scene.)
Got your nose in a book as per usual, Kai?
Ah, Your Highness. I'm surprised to see you here. What brings you to the castle library?
Forrest says I gotta brush up on my history knowledge. He caught me in a "no study" mood, so I'm not gonna bother. The least I can do is PRETEND to study.
... I see.
But enough about what I'm supposed to be doing but not actually doing. What are you up to?
Just doing research on something that caught my attention.
Cool, cool. Hey, wait a sec. That's a book on the Medean royal family! You should've come to me if you wanted some info. Get it straight from the source!
The source who devotes no time to studying her own continent's history?
... Okay, fair. Still, I can probably help with your research! Even if it's something small.
Hmm... Well, since you're offering, I'm curious about the arranged marriages within the royal family.
You got it! Lucky for you, I actually know a lot about this. I'm sure Yondo's other royal families got the whole arranged marriage thing too, but Medeas has a whole system on how to choose the heir's partner.
Oh?
You probably noticed when looking down the family tree, but there's a cyclical pattern going on with the betrothed's home nation.
Yes, I did notice that. I assume this has to do with Medeas' public relations?
You got it! My ancestors figured out this system so that one nation wouldn't be favored over the other when it came time for a political marriage.
Interesting... So, according to this, your father married a priestess from Foliaga.
Yup! With Foliaga being the previous nation in the cycle, that means Fuegsol would have been next in line.
So, Prince Ervan was...
... Y-Yeah.
...
S-Sorry, uh. Anything else you needed, Kai?
One last thing, if you don't mind.
Uh-huh?
Dumb question, but how much did Prince Ervan mean to you?
He was everything to me, Kai. I loved him more than anything. And I know that he felt the same. I miss him so, so much.
I see. Thanks for your time, Princess. You've been a great help.
I'm glad. I should get going now. Talk to you later.
(Krista leaves the scene.)
So, Ervan and Krista were close. That much was true. But accusing her of murdering him? Merely the common folk spreading outlandish rumors yet again. Disproving that does get a load off my mind, though.

A Support
C'mon, Princess! You almost got me that time!
*huff huff* Hya!
There we go. Let's call it here.
Dear Medea, finally. You've been making these lessons tougher lately, Kai. Have you been holding out on me or what?
Maybe, maybe not. I'll let you figure that out.
No straight answers from you, as always. Hm...
Something on your mind?
Remember how we first met?
Of course I do. Just bumped into you, Forrest, and Felicity one day while you were shopping in the castle town's marketplace.
"Just bumped into us." If you told me that months ago, I would've believed you.
What if I said that was actually the truth?
I'd say you're full of shit.
Heh, and you'd be right.
So, what's the deal, then? Considering all that snooping you've been doing since you got here, you're obviously trying to get info on something.
Alright, you got me. But if you knew I was trying to find something, why didn't you do anything about it?
Call it a hunch, but I feel like something would've happened by now if you had bad intentions behind all that research you were doing.
A bit too trusting, are we?
Maybe. You still haven't done anything yet, though. We've known each other for almost a year now, Kai. You've got an ample amount of info to blackmail me with now, don't you? If you really wanted to, you could do just that. Makes me wonder just what you're after.
Well, well. Guess I've underestimated you, Princess. Hmm… You know what? I'm feeling nice. I'll give you a hint.
What's the catch?
No catch. You just gotta use that head of yours to figure it out, is all.
Alright, lay it on me, then.
(Kai leans in close and whispers into Krista's ear.)
With Ervan gone for so long, are you ready to move on? Or is there something else on your mind?
Kai...?
There you go. That's your hint. We'll talk later, Princess.
(Kai leaves the ssene.)
Wh-What the-?! Damn it, getting all close and personal... He did that on purpose to throw me off, I know it! But bringing up Ervan like that... I wonder...

S Support unlocks after some point in Act 3. Show

S Support
So, Your Highness, what's your plan from here?
Dunno. After this is all over, I'm probably gonna get arrested for murdering Ervan. Thrown in the dungeons or worse. No hero's welcome for me.
At least you're not completely ignorant of the punishment you'll receive.
How could I have been? It's something that's always been in the back of my mind. But despite that...
Yeah?
This is gonna sound silly, but I kept thinking "What if I never get caught?" No one other than Forrest knew, so I thought I could still have my chance to become queen. To be the leader my people needed. To make up for everything... for Ervan's sake...
Heh.
I know. I was being dumb.
Hey, I never said that. I'm just baffled at how stupid I've been this whole time. You've proved me wrong yet again, Princess.
Huh?
I thought this love you showed to everyone had been all an act. But it was genuine, wasn't it? This army, your people, Ervan... You've loved everyone and kept loving everyone despite everything. Foolish? Maybe. But I can't deny that it's what got us this far.
It's what Medea would have... No. It's what a proper ruler should do. That's what I believe, at least.
If only things were different, huh?
Yeah...
Hey, I've got a proposition for you.
What is it?
Run away with me.
I'm sorry, what?
Run away with me, Krista. Neither of us has a place in Yondo anymore. Once this is all over, let's get outta here. We can start a whole new life together. Just the two of us.
Pfft... Hahaha! Kai, come on. You were finally being completely honest with me, and now you pull this? I thought you were better than that.
Krista, I'm being serious here. I want to be with you. I've fallen for you. How could I not have? After all this? After all we've been through?
I... Wow. I'm sorry. This is just so sudden. ...
...
Now would be a REALLY good time to pull out the "just kidding".
It's not coming.
Wait, so you're serious?
Sure am.
H-Hold on! I wasn't mentally prepared for this. ... Okay, I think I'm good. Still though... Wow. Can I confess something to you, Kai?
Shoot.
When Circ's Talons captured me, they put me under an illusion spell. I saw a reality where Ervan didn't die. Everything was perfect. Except... You weren't there.
Oh?
The fact you weren't there snapped me out of it. I couldn't imagine a world where I didn't meet you. You're too important to me, y'know?
You flatter me too much, Princess. Still, that means a lot. My offer of running away together is still on the table, by the way. The way things are, sounds like a pretty good idea, right?
That does sound nice, but I wanna tie up some loose ends if I can. I'm sorry.
Don't even worry about it. I figured you'd say something like that anyway. I'm leaving Yondo as soon as this is all over, so... Find me, okay? I'll be waiting for you.
I'll come running, Kai.

Forrest

C Support
Good spar today, Kai.
Sure was. Let's see, that puts our monthly spars at a tie again with four wins each.
Seems so. Though we're evenly matched, your speed always impresses me. It feels as if you can get another attack in before I can do anything.
Thanks, but it's not like you make it any easier for me. Your defensive maneuvers always keep me on my toes.
Perhaps one day we'll see who's the better one between us.
I believe we already established that around eight months ago.
That was a fluke and you know it.
Aw, don't be like that. Look at it this way. If I didn't win, you would've lost out on the best sparring partner in the world.
...
Come on. You like having me around. Admit it.
Before this conversation, I would have agreed. But I suppose training alongside you has had its benefits.
Now was that so hard?
If I knew you were this insufferable, I would have never agreed to hiring you. Still, your knowledge has proved useful time and time again. You have been a great addition to our ranks thus far.
Happy to be of service.
At any rate, I will be preparing for our next spar. Don't expect me to go easy on you.
I never do, Forrest. I never do.

B Support
Hey, I've been wondering something. What reasons do you have for training as much as you do? Aside from the obvious, of course.
I'm afraid the obvious reason is my only reason, Kai. Protecting Her Highness is my duty, and I take this duty seriously. I'd even lay down my life if it meant ensuring her safety.
You sure have a one-track mind. Is that why you were so dead-set on beating me during our first spar?
Perhaps.
It checks out if that were the case. We did agree that if I won, I'd be hired, after all. Were you so opposed to have anyone get close to Her Highness that you'd do whatever it took to keep her out of reach?
!!
You're so easy to read. With how much you wear your heart on your sleeve, I'm surprised Her Highness hasn't figured out that you-
We are ending the conversation here!
And you're easy to tease.
Have I mentioned how insufferable you can be?
In all seriousness, your devotion is almost enviable, Forrest. Can't say I'm of the same mentality, though. I value my own existence much more than anyone else's. If I realized that sooner, then maybe things could've been different...
What do you mean by that?
Ah, it's nothing. Just me thinking aloud. Anyway, good spar again, Forrest. Keep up the good work.
You as well, Kai.

A Support
Forrest, I've been wondering this for a while now, but about Prince Ervan...
I don't like where this is going.
I haven't even said anything yet.
... Go on.
As I was saying, how did you feel about him? Considering how protective you are of Her Highness, assumptions can be made.
...
(Forrest draws out a training sword.)
Draw your sword, Kai. We're due for our monthly spar.
You're only making yourself suspicious by doing this, Forrest. But sure, I'll bite. I win, you spill. You win, you keep your mouth shut?
Precisely.
I'll definitely win, then. I'll make sure of it. Let's go!
(Time passes.)
*huff huff*
*huff huff* That's... *huff* my win... Whew... Seriously, Forrest, that was the hardest I've ever seen you fight. You don't even get like that in an actual battle.
I apologize. I don't know what came over me.
So, our deal?
If you absolutely must know, I harbored no ill feelings towards His Highness. It's just... I felt envious of him. That's all.
Figured as much. Why be so defensive about it, though?
Knowing you, you'd accuse me of arranging the prince's death.
Just for that? Forrest, you think so low of me. I suspected you from the start.
P-Pardon?
Granted, I've been suspicious of both you and Her Highness. But now, let's just say you're off my list of possible suspects.
...
What's with that face? I figured you'd be happy about that.
You still suspect Her Highness.
Admittedly, there have been rumors going around. I can't exactly discount them. Not when they could be a feasible lead.
... I see.
You're always so on edge when it comes to her. I wouldn't worry about it, especially if she's innocent.
Right. Of course.
Do you doubt her, Forrest? Or is there something else weighing down on you?
... I've held up my end of the bargain, Kai. I do not need to indulge your curiosity any longer.
(Forrest leaves the scene.)
Forrest... Just what do you know?

S Support unlocks after some point in Act 3. Show

S Support
Forrest.
Kai.
You... did good out there.
Is that all you wish to say?
It's just... if you weren't there, things would have been a lot worse. So, thanks.
I have no need for your gratitude.
I know. I still wanted to say something.
Hm.
... I'm sorry, alright?
What?
I still think your feelings about Her Highness are completely self-destructive. However, if you didn't act when you did, we may have lost her. And if we did, it would have been my fault. I thought about what you said back then. That guilt would have been too much to bear. Perhaps I was wrong when I left Lady Tsubaki too.
No, I believe you had every right to call me out. All I've known is protecting Her Highness. This duty clouded my mind to the point where I forgot I had my own life to live. When I rescued Princess Krista from Circ's Talons, luck was on my side. If I hesitated for even a moment...
But you didn't. And that's what matters. Your determination, your discipline... When you factor Princess Krista out, it's quite admirable. It's for that reason, I've come to... Love you.
Kai?
And that's where we're ending things off. See ya.
(Kai begins to walk away.)
Oh no, you don't! Ha... Even when you confess your love, you still keep your heart guarded. That's just how you are, isn't it?
...
Kai, there is nothing to be ashamed about.
I said all those horrible things to you, though. Why would you even care about my feelings?
Because I... Hm... Let me put it this way. When I went after Princess Krista, her safety was my top priority. But beyond that, my mind went to you.
You... What?
When you stayed behind, I felt betrayed. My heart felt so heavy. I... never thought I could feel this way about another man.
How do you feel about me, Forrest?
I think... I'm in love with you too? It's so much to think about... I don't know what to do with myself.
We'll figure it out together, then.
Kai?
If you're struggling, I'll be there for you. You're my friend, my sparring partner... And honestly, I wouldn't mind if you were more than either of those things. If you'll have me, I could be the same for you.
I... Yes. I would like that, Kai. Very much.
I know I'm not great with commitment, but I think some of your devotion is starting to rub off on me. I'll stick with you 'til the end no matter where it takes me. That's a promise.
Kai... Thank you. That means more to me than you can ever know.

Trevor

C Support
Trevor, there you are. Mind if I ask you about something?
Kai, my brother in arms, you may ask me anything your heart desires.
Great. Just to confirm, Princess Krista hired you around six months ago?
Why, yes! Only two months after your employment, if memory serves.
I see. With that in mind, your prowess with magic piqued my interest.
You flatter me so, Kai! But, I have a feeling that this is where the praise ends.
And you'd be right. You see, I've heard rumors that House Valoria's only child has gone missing. And has been missing for around six months.
I see. Go on.
Being a magic prodigy yourself, I'm sure you'd know about the most powerful mage family in Medeas, wouldn't you?
But?
I wanna test a theory. I'm thinking maybe I'm just a late bloomer. And here's where you come in with this little experiment.
Well... of course! Now, Kai, excuse me for being presumptuous, but I am not the missing Valoria heir of which you speak. For the Valoria family only had a daughter, not a son. It would be impossible for it to be me.
Huh. Well, that's news to me. Sorry about the assumptions, Trevor. I guess I'll have to go back to the drawing board for this one.
It is quite alright, my friend. I would love to chat more, but I must get to my studies. Do not get too caught up in the rumor mill, now.
(Trevor leaves the scene.)
Well, that trail has gone cold. Hm... Why do I have this nagging feeling that there's more to this story?

B Support
Here's that sketch you wanted, sir. Is that all you needed?
Yes, thank you. And here's your payment. Thank you again for your assistance.
(Scene transitions to just outside the town gate.)
Now, let's see here... That's what the young Valoria scion looks like, hm? Her face... Heh, if I didn't know any better, I'd say she looks just like-
(Trevor enters the scene.)
Ah, Kai, my brother in arms! Fancy seeing you here.
Trevor? What are you- !!
Is something the matter, Kai? You look like you've seen a ghost.
It's... It's nothing. Ahem. As I was saying, what are you doing in town?
Why, I am out doing errands for Princess Krista. Would you care to join me?
Actually, I'm busy with my own stuff. Maybe some other time?
So it shall be. I will not keep you any longer. So long!
(Trevor leaves the scene.)
... Could Trevor actually be...? No, I must be going crazy. There's no way...
(Scene transitions to in town.)
Kai was acting really just now. Did he figure me out...? No, of course not. Just keep doing what you're doing, Trevor. You've kept suspicions off yourself for this long, after all.

A Support
With all this evidence, I am now almost one hundred percent sure about my theory. All I need to do now is confront Trevor about it.
(Kai knocks on Trevor's door.)
G'morning, Trevor. It's Kai. Can we talk?
A-Ah, yes! One... One moment, please!
Sorry, did I catch you at a bad time?
Nah, everything's a-okay! I-I mean, just... uh... Gimme a sec, alright??
... Did he just say "a-okay"? Yeah, something's not right here.
Y'know, this can wait 'til later-
Nah, nah, it's cool! I'll be out in a jiff!
Did you just say "in a ji-
(Trevor exits his room.)
Hi. Hello. Yes. Ahem. Kai, my brother in arms, how are you on this fine morning? Quite breezy today, isn't it?
...
Is something wrong?
... You're not wearing any pants.
...
(Trevor retreats into his room.)
I'll be right back-
*sigh* By Merin, this was NOT how I wanted to confirm my suspicions.
(Kai knocks on Trevor's door again.)
Trevor, after you get some pants on, can we talk? We can do it in your quarters if you prefer.
... Alright.
(Scene transitions to inside Trevor's room.)
Please don't tell anyone.
Relax, I won't. The thought didn't even cross my mind.
Then, why bother looking into this in the first place?
Just wanted to satisfy my own curiosity. You know how it is.
For once, I wish that wasn't the case. There was a reason why I didn't want this coming out, you know.
Trevor, I'm really sorry. I didn't mean to invade on something so private. I didn't realize it WAS a private matter for you.
...
Do you mind if I ask you one last thing?
I refuse to feed your curiosity any longer.
Trevor, please. I really am sorry that I hurt you. I had no idea this was a sensitive topic for you. Please understand that. You're my friend, and I would never intentionally cause you grief.
... What did you wish to ask me?
Why all of this hiding? Were things in House Valoria not to your liking?
Ha! "Hiding"? Kai, my friend, this is the most unconcealed I have been in my entire life. "Heir to House Valoria" was the disguise. Not "Trevor". "Trevor, loyal retainer to Princess Krista" has been my true self all along, even if it took me a long time to realize it.
Hmm...
Wh-What?
If that's how it is, then that's how it is. You're Trevor. Always have been, always will.
Kai...
I never actually knew you in your previous life, so I got nothing to compare to anyway. I can imagine that it was tough for you back then, though. Having to pretend to be someone else and all.
Yes, it was a miserable existence. But when Her Highness found me half a year ago... When she accepted me for who I was... That was the happiest moment in my life. I'll never forget that.
You're definitely doing well now. I can tell. And I prefer a happy Trevor over a sad one any day.
Haha... Thank you. That means a lot.
Of course. You're my friend. And my brother in arms.
As are you, Kai. As are you.

S Support unlocks after some point in Act 3. Show

S Support
...
(Kai enters the scene.)
Something up, Trev?
K-Kai! You startled me.
Heh, sorry. Anyway, my question?
I can't stop thinking about what happens after all... this. Will we still be employed by the royal family? Her Highness might not...
I dunno about you, but I'm outta here no matter what happens afterward.
C-Come again?
I'm a mercenary, remember? And I'd say my job here's almost done.
That is one way to put it, I suppose.
And even if I wasn't a mercenary, Merinas would be hunting me down and arresting me for treason. I wouldn't wanna make myself an easy target, y'know?
I... I see.
Come on, don't make such a long face. This was gonna happen eventually, Trev. You know that.
Yes, but that does not make it hurt any less. Did our time together mean nothing to you?
Trev, in case you haven't noticed, I don't stay attached to people. You're no different.
But what about what you said before? We are friends, are we not?
... Slip of the tongue.
Says the man who has given me a nickname on a whim.
Another slip of the tongue.
And here I thought you were more tight-lipped.
I don't loosen my lips or my tongue for just anyone, you know. And you shouldn't either, Valoria.
... Just what are you trying to say?
You trusted me this entire time to keep your secret. Do you believe that to be a wise decision?
Yes. I do.
Oh?
You would have done something with this information by now. Force me back to my family, inform Her Highness of my true identity... And yet here we are with nothing changed.
... Heh. All very true, Trev.
Huh? What was the point of all that?
Just a little test to see if you've got a good read on me after all this time. You passed, by the way.
Could you please be straightforward for once?
Sure I can, on one condition.
Which is?
Just relax when it's just us. No need to use that extensive vocabulary around me. It's gotta be exhausting for you.
I... I can try.
Good. In fact, I can make the transition easier on you, if you want.
Huh? How?
By loosening your lips.
What do you mean by-
(Kai kisses Trevor.)
Mn?!!
Aw, you're blushing.
Did you just...?!
What? Never been kissed before?
I... N-No...
I can be your first in other ways too, if you'll let me, Trev.
Wait wait wait stop stop stop that's going way too fast!!
Oh? You knew what I meant by that? I guess you're not as innocent as I thought-
CEASE!!

Joshua

C Support
Hm... Fascinating. That hunk of iron doesn't slow him down nearly as much as one would expect. He doesn't parry or deflect like one might with a large sword. More like he cuts through his opponent's defenses. Interesting.
(Joshua enters the scene.)
Hey, you going to spar, pretty boy? Or are you just going to stand on the sidelines all day like an idiotic bystander?
Are you talking to me?
You see anyone else just grinning on the sidelines not doing anything?
Doesn't that large sword weigh you down, though? I would think something that massive would-
Oh no you don't. You've been watching for the better part of half an hour. Quit standing there and draw! Hyah!
(Joshua moves in and swings his sword at Kai. Kai takes the hit.)
Ngh. Nice stroke. You were aware that I was watching even while sparring yourself?
Sure was. First rule of survival in the arena: always be aware of your surroundings and who occupies them. Anyone there is a potential assassin, adversary, or ambusher.
So you have good situational awareness, then. You would make a good soldier or spy. Still, this sword is a large target making it easy to avoid and block.
(Joshua moves in to take another swing. Kai blocks the attack.)
Case in point.
You may have blocked my blade, but look at your own.
Wh-What the-?!
As you noted, large target so easy to block. But if you block near my crossguard, you are bearing the full weight of Old Iron here which is too much strain for the typical blade. One more parry and you may break your sword.
D-Damn it...
What you want to do is block closer to the tip. Less weight on your blade. Let's call it for a day. Besides, you need to get your sword looked at.
(Joshua leaves the scene.)
How did he get my sword to the point of breaking like that? Thank Merin it didn't actually break. Going to have to find more information on him. He mentioned the arena... Maybe I'll see if anyone from there knows anything about the man.

Taiga

C Support
Hey! You're Kai, right?
Yes? And you're Taiga, Ke-- Ryuuji's crewmate, correct?
Yup! With intros outta the way, I got a huge favor to ask.
Might take you up on it, might not. What is it?
I heard from the captain that you're a pretty smart guy. So, I wanna see how your smarts compete against my luck in a game of blackjack!
Oh? Sounds like you've got quite a winning streak under your belt already.
Well, uh... No. Not really. I've lost every game I've played. But that just means my lucky break's gonna be HUGE! And I have a feeling that it's coming today!
... You know what, I've got nothing better to do. Deal me in, Taiga.
An hour later...
Not again...! One more time! I'm gonna win for sure!
You said that the last five games.
Those didn't count.
*sigh* Look, maybe we can play more some other time. And here, take your money back too. Just be glad we're working together. I would've pocketed all of this otherwise.
Man... Alright. But I'll definitely win next time! I swear it!
(Taiga leaves the scene.)
I've never seen someone so horrific at gambling before. Although, this does give me an idea...

B Support
Hey, Taiga! Got a minute? I'm up for a few games of blackjack if you are.
I'm always up for a game! Let's go!
Before we do, how about we make this more interesting?
Whatcha got in mind?
The loser has to do whatever the winner tells them to do.
Whoa there, those are some pretty high stakes.
What are you so worried about? I thought you said you were definitely gonna win next time. And now's next time.
Yeah, you're right! My luck's gonna turn around! But, uh... Could we make it a best two out of three?
Sure.
A few minutes later...
And that's another bust for you.
Man...
Now, about my winnings...
G-Go easy on me, alright?
Hm, now what should I have you do? What if I... Should I? No, that might be too much. But... Hmm...
Oh, out with it already! Just thinking about what you're gonna make me do is giving me chills.
Alright, alright. I want you to...
Yeah? Yeah?!
Tell me everything you know about Ryuuji. No lies and don't leave anything out.
Wha- That's it?!
Yup. That's it.
You sadistic little- Ugh, whatever. A deal's a deal. Anyway, Ryuuji's been captain of the Wyrmfang Pirates for three or so years now. He wasn't always part of the crew. We took him prisoner years ago during our last raid on Edoyama.
Speaking of that, why did you stop your raids on the capital? It would've been a lucrative target.
Well, we gotta let our targets build up before we knock 'em down, y'know? Otherwise, there'd be nothing left to steal. On top of that, Ryuuji outright commanded us to stop raids on the capital from the moment he was promoted to captain.
Huh...
'Course, some of the crew didn't like that, so some of them just up and left.
I see... Anything else about Ryuuji specifically?
He doesn't like talking about himself too much. The only other stuff I know is that he was working under the imperial family and just used Ryuuji as a nickname. His real name's Kenji.
Anything else? Anything at all?
Hmm... Nope, that's all I've got.
Okay.
Man, all that just for some info... Why do you wanna know so much about him anyway?
... Personal reasons.

Yumi

C Support
Hm... I wonder...
It's impolite to stare, you know.
My, aren't you sharp? It makes me wonder if you're used to getting stared at.
Implying something?
Does the nickname "The Escort Mercenary" mean anything to you?
Can't say it does. Should it?
I've heard that a handsome young mercenary from Merinas has been selling more than just his sword arm. If you catch my drift. Ring any bells?
Well, I can admit my "swordplay" is decent. And I have shown it off to those willing to pay me. Though, I'd imagine not as often as these rumors say.
So, you're saying it HAS happened.
Since you seem so interested in my services, let me lay out my terms. Payment consists of both gold and information. If the info's not good enough, it's a no-go.
Oh, it's good. Trust me. Working for the arena's got its perks.
In that case, how about we talk business over some drinks? Let's see how good that info of yours really is.
Gladly.

B Support
Kai, do you mind if I ask you something?
Depends on what it is.
About the other night-
(Kai leaves the scene.)
Wha- Hey! You can't just run off like that!
(Yumi chases after Kai and catches up to him.)
*huff* There... *huff* you are...!
Aren't you persistent? Good job tailing me, but I'm still not gonna talk about that.
But-
You gave me your payment and I delivered. Transaction's over. I make it a policy to not dwell on nights like that after the fact. It's best if you did the same, Yumi. I wouldn't want you to get attached.
Get attached? Just what kind of girl do you take me for?!
I've seen this sort of thing happen before, Yumi. We start talking more, you pay for more one-on-one time, one thing leads to another-
Don't be so full of yourself! You weren't even that great.
I... What?
Oh, good. You're actually listening to me. Your performance was mediocre, Kai.
Huh. That's a first.
It was such a drag! Where was the energy? The passion? Honestly, I feel bad for anyone who paid for such a poor display.
Well, my past clients were satisfied enough, so why should I care?
Do you even hear yourself right now?! What about any future clients? You need to step it up for their sake. Be glad I'm not asking for a refund.
Wow, harsh words, Yumi. Harsh words. But, again, the transaction's done. End of discussion.
Oh no, it's not. I am getting my money's worth out of you whether you like it or not.
Your money's worth? Oh, dear Merin, you're not suggesting...
My quarters. I'll let you know when I'm free.
And if I refuse?
I'm sure Her Highness would LOVE to know what her loyal retainer has been doing in his free time.
... Fine.

A Support
That wasn't any better than last time.
And I keep telling you I don't care. Whatever you're looking for, you're not gonna find it with me, Yumi.
Why bother with this line of work then?
Because there's a demand. It's all a means to an end.
Come on, you can't honestly believe that. Hasn't there been at least one client who you maybe... wanted as more than just a client?
Nope. It's just a job to me.
Do you just not like doing it?
I didn't say that. I just don't feel one way or another about it, is all.
Really now...?
I know most people say they actually get excitement out of it, but not me. Like I said before, as long as we both get what we want out of it, I don't care how they feel. At the end of the day, it's a transaction.
You know, if you said all that to begin with, I wouldn't have pestered you about it.
It's what I was trying to say from the start.
Hmm... I suppose so. Sorry for wasting your time, Kai.
Hey, that's my line. I'll refund you the gold, Yumi. You said you'd want your money's worth, and you're not gonna get it. So, it'd be in your best interest to take it back.
Keep it. Think of it as compensation for me being a bother.
Suit yourself. Anyway, I'd better get dressed and out the door. Better to slip out while it's still dark, after all.
Yeah. See ya.
(Kai begins to leave but stops for a moment.)
Hey. Before I go, I just wanna say thanks.
Hm? For what?
Just... for being understanding.
Yeah. Of course.

Asuka

C Support
(Asuka sneaks up behind Kai and pins him against the wall.)
Got you.
Nice to see you too, Asuka.
You know very well what the consequences are for defecting, Kai. And as much as I would like to follow through with them, I can't exactly do that.
Aw, you still care about me.
When did you pick up that insufferable attitude?
It's always been there. I was just good at hiding it. Now, are you gonna keep holding me like this, or should I just break free myself?
Wha-
(Kai gets out of Asuka's grasp.)
You couldn't have honestly believed I wouldn't know how to break out of that hold. It was my father's technique. You know that.
I suppose I underestimated you. I assumed you'd be rusty after all this time.
So, what's the deal, Asuka? I'm sure getting your hands on me wasn't the reason for your "visit". Heh, unless...
Now, hold on-
I mean, I know I look like my old man, but come on-
Quiet already!
Hmm, not hearing you deny it.
... You are just trying to distract me. I will not give in so easily.
Whatever makes you feel better.
This was just a warning, Kai. Once our time with the Medean princess is over, I will not show you mercy. Watch yourself.
(Asuka leaves the scene.)
Man, I know I was just trying to rile her up, but... Hm... That's just plain pitiful, Asuka.

B Support
(Asuka attempts to sneak up behind Kai again, but he immediately turns around.)
!!
I'm not playing around anymore, Asuka. Gonna have to try harder than that.
Why, you...! Ya!
(Asuka lunges forward.)
Hey, what happened to not killing me, hm?
You're making me reconsider, Kai. Choose your next words carefully.
... "Good job, Su-chan. You've really improved."
...!
(Asuka backs off.)
D-Don't... Don't call me that.
What's wrong? I thought you would've missed being called by that nickname.
...
If you want me to keep going, I can. In fact, I'll even throw in my "services" if you feel so inclined.
You cannot be serious.
Wouldn't be offering if I wasn't. He and I went through similar training, y'know. I bet I look just like him in his prime. Just a little bit of gold, and you can see for yourself, Asuka.
... Even you can admit this is going too far, Kai.
Maybe. But your hesitation is giving me mixed signals. Think about it. No one will know but us. Keeping secrets is literally what ninjas are trained to do, after all.
Do not tempt me.
So, it is up for consideration, then?
... No. Goodbye, Kai.
(Asuka leaves the scene.)
Damn, so close. Hmm... but even if she did accept, would I really have it in me to follow through on it? ... Ugh, just thinking about pretending to be him is making me sick...