Swamped

Could you be wrong?

Well, Mudviper was talking just fine last you saw her. But she also didn't show any symptoms until earlier today. It might be she got the fever, but no one else did.

On the other hand, it might be that only Requiem got poisoned. After all, their illness did come at a very convenient time for the more aggressive Council members.

You know Bigfoot would never resort to something dirty like that. You've worked with her before. But what about Razor?

...No. You don't see it in him. Yeah, he fights dirty, and he's all too happy to poke his nose in everyone's business, but he wouldn't do something like that to another Marshguard. Not even one he disliked.

Bad as Razor may be, he's no Ash.

Maybe Mantis isn't so sure, though. Maybe he's trying to read Razor's reactions.

Such as by seeing if he looks at all relieved when Mantis turns the focus to you.

Well, this test doesn't require Requiem to actually be poisoned, does it. Maybe you can give that a quick check.

"Well, I've given it some thought," you finally say, pacing around. "And what I think is..."

You suddenly, 'carelessly', step on Requiem's foot. And hear a piercing scream.

"...that somebody here owes us an explanation for the miraculous recovery of Requiem's vocal chords."

"Dammit, Mantis," Razor growls. "Was this really the time for one of your blasted tests?"

"I must admit, I did not expect such a direct approach to resolving my little deception. I believe I learned some very interesting things. Wouldn't you agree, Requiem?"

"Yes, sir. Though I would have preferred to learn them in a less painful manner," Requiem groans.

"Fair enough. You are still in need of rest; let us partake of our evening meal, and then return you to quarters."

The group walks off to another table. Razor turns to you and laughs.

"Well. That settles it. Nobody could have fed you that answer. Not unless you're hearing the words of the gods themselves." He chuckles for a bit more before finally calming down. "So, where were we... ah, that's right. I wanted you to tell me about Ash."

That's a big subject. Where do you even begin?