Bannerlord diff
259 lines
<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
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-<strings>
-<strings>
<!--Engineers - Empire, Aserai, KhuzaitsSurgeons - Empire (f), Aserai, VlandiaHerbalists - Sturgia (f), Battanians (f), VlandiaScouts"bit of something, is possible to oversalt the soup -->
<!--Engineers - Empire, Aserai, KhuzaitsSurgeons - Empire (f), Aserai, VlandiaHerbalists - Sturgia (f), Battanians (f), VlandiaScouts"bit of something, is possible to oversalt the soup -->
<string text="{=lxZouJ2B}(prebackstory generic remark for outside taverns)" id="spc_prebackstory_generic"/>
<string text="{=lxZouJ2B}(prebackstory generic remark for outside taverns)" id="spc_prebackstory_generic"/>
<!-- apprentice to the master of artillery in his unit. legions no longer exist. nepotism in the engineering trade. young and arrogant. -->
<!-- apprentice to the master of artillery in his unit. legions no longer exist. nepotism in the engineering trade. young and arrogant. -->
<string text="{=jPGOlC7O}I don't mind talking about it." id="prebackstory.spc_wanderer_empire_0"/>
<string text="{=jPGOlC7O}I don't mind talking about it." id="prebackstory.spc_wanderer_empire_0"/>
<string text="{=3yK4uXyt}I'm an engineer. Most of us learned our trade and got our contacts through the army. It was a good system: it was the emperor's money, so the emperor's servants kept a close eye on us. But as everyone knows, the emperor ran out of money. The lords are in charge of fortifications now, and all they have to go on is the say-so of other engineers." id="backstory_a.spc_wanderer_empire_0"/>
<string text="{=3yK4uXyt}I'm an engineer. Most of us learned our trade and got our contacts through the army. It was a good system: it was the emperor's money, so the emperor's servants kept a close eye on us. But as everyone knows, the emperor ran out of money. The lords are in charge of fortifications now, and all they have to go on is the say-so of other engineers." id="backstory_a.spc_wanderer_empire_0"/>
<string text="{=OYOwasMe}You can imagine - it's a bit of a racket. People build arches that fall down, and his colleagues go on recommending him because he's someone's brother or old apprentice. The greatest sin in our brotherhood is criticizing the work of other engineers. " id="backstory_b.spc_wanderer_empire_0"/>
<string text="{=OYOwasMe}You can imagine - it's a bit of a racket. People build arches that fall down, and his colleagues go on recommending him because he's someone's brother or old apprentice. The greatest sin in our brotherhood is criticizing the work of other engineers. " id="backstory_b.spc_wanderer_empire_0"/>
<string text="{=JfTTbPag}Well, I don't play that game. If something's going to fall down and kill someone, I'll point that out. So, naturally, all my 'brothers' cut me out of contracts." id="backstory_c.spc_wanderer_empire_0"/>
<string text="{=JfTTbPag}Well, I don't play that game. If something's going to fall down and kill someone, I'll point that out. So, naturally, all my 'brothers' cut me out of contracts." id="backstory_c.spc_wanderer_empire_0"/>
<string text="{=R36Bl55h}Most noble of you, sir." id="response_1.spc_wanderer_empire_0"/>
<string text="{=R36Bl55h}Most noble of you, sir." id="response_1.spc_wanderer_empire_0"/>
<string text="{=oXnqNsvz}A man of integrity, or simply one who backbites his peers? I have no idea, and wouldn't want to take the risk of hiring you." id="response_2.spc_wanderer_empire_0"/>
<string text="{=oXnqNsvz}A man of integrity, or simply one who backbites his peers? I have no idea, and wouldn't want to take the risk of hiring you." id="response_2.spc_wanderer_empire_0"/>
<string text="{=b1sCl4SI}So, anyway, I am forced to spend my time in taverns, taking whatever work can be found. I can oversee the building of most structures, or, if the need is there, I am also adept at knocking them down with catapults, rams, and mines." id="backstory_d.spc_wanderer_empire_0"/>
<string text="{=b1sCl4SI}So, anyway, I am forced to spend my time in taverns, taking whatever work can be found. I can oversee the building of most structures, or, if the need is there, I am also adept at knocking them down with catapults, rams, and mines." id="backstory_d.spc_wanderer_empire_0"/>
<!-- the bull -->
<!-- the bull -->
<string text="{=836klxRM}You want to know about me? Well, that's a story, that's a story." id="prebackstory.spc_wanderer_empire_1"/>
<string text="{=836klxRM}You want to know about me? Well, that's a story, that's a story." id="prebackstory.spc_wanderer_empire_1"/>
<string text="{=ivz2U3e2}See, there's a lot of tales about me, and only some of them are true. The Khuzaits call me by one name, the Aserai by another." id="backstory_a.spc_wanderer_empire_1"/>
<string text="{=ivz2U3e2}See, there's a lot of tales about me, and only some of them are true. The Khuzaits call me by one name, the Aserai by another." id="backstory_a.spc_wanderer_empire_1"/>
<string text="{=0ty7hiZI} I've been in a lot of fights and I've killed a lot of people. Ask you around - you shouldn't just take my word for it. But never one who didn't deserve it, and never once outside a fair fight." id="backstory_b.spc_wanderer_empire_1"/>
<string text="{=0ty7hiZI} I've been in a lot of fights and I've killed a lot of people. Ask you around - you shouldn't just take my word for it. But never one who didn't deserve it, and never once outside a fair fight." id="backstory_b.spc_wanderer_empire_1"/>
<string text="{=waUxgr5b}Let me tell you something else - war is not a game. It's not a game. Play by the rules and you die. The streets aren't the arena. If you think someone's your enemy, you take them down - don't wait for a polite challenge." id="backstory_c.spc_wanderer_empire_1"/>
<string text="{=waUxgr5b}Let me tell you something else - war is not a game. It's not a game. Play by the rules and you die. The streets aren't the arena. If you think someone's your enemy, you take them down - don't wait for a polite challenge." id="backstory_c.spc_wanderer_empire_1"/>
<string text="{=8duSHfDa}Ah, yes. Wise words. Do go on." id="response_1.spc_wanderer_empire_1"/>
<string text="{=8duSHfDa}Ah, yes. Wise words. Do go on." id="response_1.spc_wanderer_empire_1"/>
<string text="{=oyHzM0jb}You've said nothing about yourself, and your one word contradicts the other. I have better things to do." id="response_2.spc_wanderer_empire_1"/>
<string text="{=oyHzM0jb}You've said nothing about yourself, and your one word contradicts the other. I have better things to do." id="response_2.spc_wanderer_empire_1"/>
<string text="{=1ubcomnD}I don't like to brag about my own deeds, so I'll leave it at that. I do a lot of work for the merchants around here, but they don't own me. I'm my own man. I just take their money. It's not like I'm a mercenary or something like that." id="backstory_d.spc_wanderer_empire_1"/>
<string text="{=1ubcomnD}I don't like to brag about my own deeds, so I'll leave it at that. I do a lot of work for the merchants around here, but they don't own me. I'm my own man. I just take their money. It's not like I'm a mercenary or something like that." id="backstory_d.spc_wanderer_empire_1"/>
<!-- the brave -->
<!-- the brave -->
<string text="{=AT7pJ6Rm}It is not without some reluctance that I tell this story, for it hardly does honor to my name." id="prebackstory.spc_wanderer_empire_2"/>
<string text="{=AT7pJ6Rm}It is not without some reluctance that I tell this story, for it hardly does honor to my name." id="prebackstory.spc_wanderer_empire_2"/>
<string text="{=3J76GzZh}My father was a cataphract in the east. We had a small estate to pay for his horse and armor. I was raised to take his place on the imperial troop rosters when he came of age." id="backstory_a.spc_wanderer_empire_2"/>
<string text="{=3J76GzZh}My father was a cataphract in the east. We had a small estate to pay for his horse and armor. I was raised to take his place on the imperial troop rosters when he came of age." id="backstory_a.spc_wanderer_empire_2"/>
<string text="{=fwYGme3B} But the Khuzaits overran us, and he was slain, and our land was taken. Its revenues now belong to some tarkhan. Alas, the empire has little land to grant today, even to trained cavalrymen like myself who wish to serve. And horses are expensive." id="backstory_b.spc_wanderer_empire_2"/>
<string text="{=fwYGme3B} But the Khuzaits overran us, and he was slain, and our land was taken. Its revenues now belong to some tarkhan. Alas, the empire has little land to grant today, even to trained cavalrymen like myself who wish to serve. And horses are expensive." id="backstory_b.spc_wanderer_empire_2"/>
<string text="{=4UMf7HDe}You may call it pride, but I do not wish to enlist as a foot soldier. So I work here in town, for merchants, for pay, a hired sword. All I can say is that I hope one day to purchase the land I need to serve our emperor, whoever sits in the throne, as my father did." id="backstory_c.spc_wanderer_empire_2"/>
<string text="{=4UMf7HDe}You may call it pride, but I do not wish to enlist as a foot soldier. So I work here in town, for merchants, for pay, a hired sword. All I can say is that I hope one day to purchase the land I need to serve our emperor, whoever sits in the throne, as my father did." id="backstory_c.spc_wanderer_empire_2"/>
<string text="{=KtN79I0H}That's it? The dishonorable part? That you work for merchants? I'd thought it would be a lot worse." id="response_1.spc_wanderer_empire_2"/>
<string text="{=KtN79I0H}That's it? The dishonorable part? That you work for merchants? I'd thought it would be a lot worse." id="response_1.spc_wanderer_empire_2"/>
<string text="{=902xqUja}A cavalier of the empire doing errands for traders! The shame of it!" id="response_2.spc_wanderer_empire_2"/>
<string text="{=902xqUja}A cavalier of the empire doing errands for traders! The shame of it!" id="response_2.spc_wanderer_empire_2"/>
<string text="{=wiR9bSfw}I try at least to pick and choose my master, and hope at least that some of our equestrian honor rubs off on the men of commerce." id="backstory_d.spc_wanderer_empire_2"/>
<string text="{=wiR9bSfw}I try at least to pick and choose my master, and hope at least that some of our equestrian honor rubs off on the men of commerce." id="backstory_d.spc_wanderer_empire_2"/>
<!-- the boar -->
<!-- the boar -->
<string text="{=B3UQTCRE}Refill my glass and I'll tell you." id="prebackstory.spc_wanderer_empire_3"/>
<string text="{=B3UQTCRE}Refill my glass and I'll tell you." id="prebackstory.spc_wanderer_empire_3"/>
<string text="{=H7tFXLVN}I'm a soldier by trade. I've served in the empire's legions for 20 years. Once upon a time they were worthy of being called 'legions.' We served together for years, and we'd die rather than see our standards falter or fall." id="backstory_a.spc_wanderer_empire_3"/>
<string text="{=H7tFXLVN}I'm a soldier by trade. I've served in the empire's legions for 20 years. Once upon a time they were worthy of being called 'legions.' We served together for years, and we'd die rather than see our standards falter or fall." id="backstory_a.spc_wanderer_empire_3"/>
<string text="{=DzyAgYIX}But Drosios Neretzes led the pick of the legions into an ambush in the Battanian woods. You may have heard that story. I was laid up sick at the time. But a lot of my comrades didn't come back, and things were never the same afterward." id="backstory_b.spc_wanderer_empire_3"/>
<string text="{=DzyAgYIX}But Drosios Neretzes led the pick of the legions into an ambush in the Battanian woods. You may have heard that story. I was laid up sick at the time. But a lot of my comrades didn't come back, and things were never the same afterward." id="backstory_b.spc_wanderer_empire_3"/>
<string text="{=6OF0vjQV}After Arenicos's so-called reforms, they try to maintain an army on the cheap, letting the rich run the show out of their own pocket. No wonder the whole thing's collapsed into a bunch of squabbling factions and we're mocked by the barbarians we used to rule." id="backstory_c.spc_wanderer_empire_3"/>
<string text="{=6OF0vjQV}After Arenicos's so-called reforms, they try to maintain an army on the cheap, letting the rich run the show out of their own pocket. No wonder the whole thing's collapsed into a bunch of squabbling factions and we're mocked by the barbarians we used to rule." id="backstory_c.spc_wanderer_empire_3"/>
<string text="{=0SnKUaex}No doubt a sad state of affairs. So what do you do?" id="response_1.spc_wanderer_empire_3"/>
<string text="{=0SnKUaex}No doubt a sad state of affairs. So what do you do?" id="response_1.spc_wanderer_empire_3"/>
<string text="{=WQCAanal}Ah, the old days. And no doubt back then they complained about the older days. I've heard enough." id="response_2.spc_wanderer_empire_3"/>
<string text="{=WQCAanal}Ah, the old days. And no doubt back then they complained about the older days. I've heard enough." id="response_2.spc_wanderer_empire_3"/>
<string text="{=RdiZT1Gb}Well, I can't just sit around and drink myself to death, so I sell my sword to anyone worth following. I'm a good trainer - I don't bother with horsemen or archers, but if you've got good steady footman I can do a lot with them." id="backstory_d.spc_wanderer_empire_3"/>
<string text="{=RdiZT1Gb}Well, I can't just sit around and drink myself to death, so I sell my sword to anyone worth following. I'm a good trainer - I don't bother with horsemen or archers, but if you've got good steady footman I can do a lot with them." id="backstory_d.spc_wanderer_empire_3"/>
<!-- the robber. possibly gang leader as nemesis -->
<!-- the robber. possibly gang leader as nemesis -->
<string text="{=22ajCymb}Oh, I suppose I can tell you. Nothing that no one doesn't already know, no how." id="prebackstory.spc_wanderer_empire_4"/>
<string text="{=22ajCymb}Oh, I suppose I can tell you. Nothing that no one doesn't already know, no how." id="prebackstory.spc_wanderer_empire_4"/>
<string text="{=RaqBSakL}Me and some lads from my village, we thought we'd run away, join some other lads up there who make their living on the highways, if you know what I mean. Didn't much want to go scratching a plow across the dry fields all year every year like my father did." id="backstory_a.spc_wanderer_empire_4"/>
<string text="{=RaqBSakL}Me and some lads from my village, we thought we'd run away, join some other lads up there who make their living on the highways, if you know what I mean. Didn't much want to go scratching a plow across the dry fields all year every year like my father did." id="backstory_a.spc_wanderer_empire_4"/>
<string text="{=xZuqLfE7}But I was young and foolish. Bandits - well, who'd have thought? They're real animals. Always drunk and stabbing each other, or too drunk to feel cold so they catch the plague and end up coughing up blood, or drunk and asleep when the patrol comes around so they end up on the gallows - I suspect you get the idea." id="backstory_b.spc_wanderer_empire_4"/>
<string text="{=xZuqLfE7}But I was young and foolish. Bandits - well, who'd have thought? They're real animals. Always drunk and stabbing each other, or too drunk to feel cold so they catch the plague and end up coughing up blood, or drunk and asleep when the patrol comes around so they end up on the gallows - I suspect you get the idea." id="backstory_b.spc_wanderer_empire_4"/>
<string text="{=qgmt8aPz}So that was no kind of life, neither. I left the woods, paid a little money to friends who got my name off the outlaw list, and now I'm a regular law-abiding citizen. Officially, that is." id="backstory_c.spc_wanderer_empire_4"/>
<string text="{=qgmt8aPz}So that was no kind of life, neither. I left the woods, paid a little money to friends who got my name off the outlaw list, and now I'm a regular law-abiding citizen. Officially, that is." id="backstory_c.spc_wanderer_empire_4"/>
<string text="{=QIrR9NhL}A wise decision." id="response_1.spc_wanderer_empire_4"/>
<string text="{=QIrR9NhL}A wise decision." id="response_1.spc_wanderer_empire_4"/>
<string text="{=xzLIIPjB}A knave who could not abide other men's knavery! May such wonders never cease." id="response_2.spc_wanderer_empire_4"/>
<string text="{=xzLIIPjB}A knave who could not abide other men's knavery! May such wonders never cease." id="response_2.spc_wanderer_empire_4"/>
<string text="{=hinn6pmX}Life's better here in the city. More 'civilized,' you could say. Oh, the work can be a bit rough and tumble, but I feel I can relax after a long day with more refined company, like your good self." id="backstory_d.spc_wanderer_empire_4"/>
<string text="{=hinn6pmX}Life's better here in the city. More 'civilized,' you could say. Oh, the work can be a bit rough and tumble, but I feel I can relax after a long day with more refined company, like your good self." id="backstory_d.spc_wanderer_empire_4"/>
<!-- the butcher, doesn't give much away about himself -->
<!-- the butcher, doesn't give much away about himself -->
<string text="{=56VPnxQd}You're a nosy one, I see." id="prebackstory.spc_wanderer_empire_5"/>
<string text="{=56VPnxQd}You're a nosy one, I see." id="prebackstory.spc_wanderer_empire_5"/>
<string text="{=qlAW1aTi}What do you want to know about? My family? Piss on them. I left home as a child and never had cause to regret it. My brothers can take my inheritance, and I hope they choke on it." id="backstory_a.spc_wanderer_empire_5"/>
<string text="{=qlAW1aTi}What do you want to know about? My family? Piss on them. I left home as a child and never had cause to regret it. My brothers can take my inheritance, and I hope they choke on it." id="backstory_a.spc_wanderer_empire_5"/>
<string text="{=ikVu2vQU}I've fought in a few wars, for one side or the other. You want to know about my-comrades-in-arms? Piss on them too. They all turn on you in the end." id="backstory_b.spc_wanderer_empire_5"/>
<string text="{=ikVu2vQU}I've fought in a few wars, for one side or the other. You want to know about my-comrades-in-arms? Piss on them too. They all turn on you in the end." id="backstory_b.spc_wanderer_empire_5"/>
<string text="{=iWe4KrSO}About my past, that's all I have to say." id="backstory_c.spc_wanderer_empire_5"/>
<string text="{=iWe4KrSO}About my past, that's all I have to say." id="backstory_c.spc_wanderer_empire_5"/>
<string text="{=AX7gvmaj}So... What are you good at?" id="response_1.spc_wanderer_empire_5"/>
<string text="{=AX7gvmaj}So... What are you good at?" id="response_1.spc_wanderer_empire_5"/>
<string text="{=Aj9ulUly}You're a cheerful one. Good day to you." id="response_2.spc_wanderer_empire_5"/>
<string text="{=Aj9ulUly}You're a cheerful one. Good day to you." id="response_2.spc_wanderer_empire_5"/>
<string text="{=X9zcXYPa}I can fight. And I don't mind doing work that others would shirk." id="backstory_d.spc_wanderer_empire_5"/>
<string text="{=X9zcXYPa}I can fight. And I don't mind doing work that others would shirk." id="backstory_d.spc_wanderer_empire_5"/>
<!-- maquisard, ex-messianic rebel turned mafiosi -->
<!-- maquisard, ex-messianic rebel turned mafiosi -->
<string text="{=VILYhtjW}I'll tell you my story." id="prebackstory.spc_wanderer_empire_6"/>
<string text="{=VILYhtjW}I'll tell you my story." id="prebackstory.spc_wanderer_empire_6"/>
<string text="{=R9KivNZ6}You may have heard of Ladimos the Red. He preached that the Heavens were getting ready to unload their wrath on landowners and merchant, that we had to drive them out and live pure lives and we'd be rewarded with a Pure Emperor, come down from the skies. This was some 10 years ago. Well, a lot of us ran off to follow him, some of us believed him and some of us had debts and some just wanted to take a lick at those that oppressed us." id="backstory_a.spc_wanderer_empire_6"/>
<string text="{=R9KivNZ6}You may have heard of Ladimos the Red. He preached that the Heavens were getting ready to unload their wrath on landowners and merchant, that we had to drive them out and live pure lives and we'd be rewarded with a Pure Emperor, come down from the skies. This was some 10 years ago. Well, a lot of us ran off to follow him, some of us believed him and some of us had debts and some just wanted to take a lick at those that oppressed us." id="backstory_a.spc_wanderer_empire_6"/>
<string text="{=7JMaPpkN}We built a great temple in the back country, out in the bush, called it the Kingdom of Truth. We whipped two imperial detachments sent to track us down. But Ladicos died, 'Called up to Heaven' he said on his deathbed, and then we lost our way a bit. We needed food and we needed money, so our chiefs started collecting 'taxes' from the villages below. Some started taking money from lords and merchants for protection of caravans. And those who grumbled - well, they started turning up dead in the dry streambeds." id="backstory_b.spc_wanderer_empire_6"/>
<string text="{=7JMaPpkN}We built a great temple in the back country, out in the bush, called it the Kingdom of Truth. We whipped two imperial detachments sent to track us down. But Ladicos died, 'Called up to Heaven' he said on his deathbed, and then we lost our way a bit. We needed food and we needed money, so our chiefs started collecting 'taxes' from the villages below. Some started taking money from lords and merchants for protection of caravans. And those who grumbled - well, they started turning up dead in the dry streambeds." id="backstory_b.spc_wanderer_empire_6"/>
<string text="{=7caHipXX}So I left. And a short while later the emperor sent a third detachment, bigger than the others, and that was the end of the Kingdom of Truth. My old comrades - I see them sometimes from time to time, some in a lord's retinue, others in a cage with R for 'robber' branded on their forehead." id="backstory_c.spc_wanderer_empire_6"/>
<string text="{=7caHipXX}So I left. And a short while later the emperor sent a third detachment, bigger than the others, and that was the end of the Kingdom of Truth. My old comrades - I see them sometimes from time to time, some in a lord's retinue, others in a cage with R for 'robber' branded on their forehead." id="backstory_c.spc_wanderer_empire_6"/>
<string text="{=wk1jPh1S}A sad tale." id="response_1.spc_wanderer_empire_6"/>
<string text="{=wk1jPh1S}A sad tale." id="response_1.spc_wanderer_empire_6"/>
<string text="{=OsWmIhds}Heresy, rebellion, and looting are three intertwined serpents. You should bear that brand yourself, knave." id="response_2.spc_wanderer_empire_6"/>
<string text="{=OsWmIhds}Heresy, rebellion, and looting are three intertwined serpents. You should bear that brand yourself, knave." id="response_2.spc_wanderer_empire_6"/>
<string text="{=HcMbaZn4}I learned a few skills up in the hills, how to follow a trail and spot an ambush, most useful to caravaneers. So I reckon I can probably stay ahead of the hangman. A regular job wouldn't hurt, though." id="backstory_d.spc_wanderer_empire_6"/>
<string text="{=HcMbaZn4}I learned a few skills up in the hills, how to follow a trail and spot an ambush, most useful to caravaneers. So I reckon I can probably stay ahead of the hangman. A regular job wouldn't hurt, though." id="backstory_d.spc_wanderer_empire_6"/>
<!-- Lord as nemesis-->
<!-- Lord as nemesis-->
<!-- posed as man to join army. needed the money -->
<!-- posed as man to join army. needed the money -->
<string text="{=eeEra0bI}Yeah, I'll tell you my story. Pass the wine and listen close." id="prebackstory.spc_wanderer_empire_7"/>
<string text="{=eeEra0bI}Yeah, I'll tell you my story. Pass the wine and listen close." id="prebackstory.spc_wanderer_empire_7"/>
<string text="{=qVQdEYyJ}My family had debts so I joined the army. I guess I always liked men's work more than women's work. The legions took hill women as scouts but I was never the hidey-sneaky type. So I did what I did to be in the spear line." id="backstory_a.spc_wanderer_empire_7"/>
<string text="{=qVQdEYyJ}My family had debts so I joined the army. Aye, they don`t take women, so I disguised myself. I put on the voice, I walked with a man`s gait, still do. I got used to it. It seemed easy at first..." id="backstory_a.spc_wanderer_empire_7"/>
<string text="{=yPRaUTwX}Dressed as a man, of course. Weren't difficult to do. Not hard to fool men. Bound my breasts and watched where I pissed. It was easy." id="backstory_b.spc_wanderer_empire_7"/>
<string text="{=yPRaUTwX} But I found out the world of men is harsher than it seems from the outside. I learned much, but not easily. Men are hard and mean to each other, even though they say they are brothers. It is hard to tell if they`re making a compliment or cursing me. There were times I wanted to burst into tears, but I held back my tears hard lest I be found out. And do you know how often they are naked? I was lucky my officer never commanded me to remove my top while we dug ditches!" id="backstory_b.spc_wanderer_empire_7"/>
<string text="{=FP9jn3zQ} Well, you know what happened. Great Lord Neretzes led the legions to their deaths. I was there. Our syntagma didn't see the battle but was part of the rout. That was the end of army life for me. Don't care for glory-hounding lords leading me to my death. But I still like to fight." id="backstory_c.spc_wanderer_empire_7"/>
<string text="{=FP9jn3zQ} Their suspicions that I was a woman grew. Truth to tell I couldn`t take it any more. I considered just telling the truth, but they might go mad that I deceived them. So, I left one dark night. That was the end of army life for me. I still want to fight, but I won`t fake it any more. I don`t recommend any woman pretending to be a man. I accept what I am now. I just want to work with a band of men for a common goal as a woman. A band of mercenaries seems a better fit methinks." id="backstory_c.spc_wanderer_empire_7"/>
<string text="{=8CixQpyO}Well, there's always work for the brave and the resourceful." id="response_1.spc_wanderer_empire_7"/>
<string text="{=8CixQpyO} Perhaps you have learnt the grass isn`t greener on the other side, lass. Go on." id="response_1.spc_wanderer_empire_7"/>
<string text="{=bhvZuX1m}A rather sad tale of deceit and disgrace." id="response_2.spc_wanderer_empire_7"/>
<string text="{=bhvZuX1m}Your reliability is questionable and I think not much to deceit." id="response_2.spc_wanderer_empire_7"/>
<string text="{=TzOdlTeb}Yeah.. The merchants give me jobs. But I'm not sure I care much for guarding caravans. A lot of sitting around listening to boring talk about prices." id="backstory_d.spc_wanderer_empire_7"/>
<string text="{=TzOdlTeb}I swear to be honest with you, sir, if you`ll hire me. I know how to use a blade and shield. I can use a spear." id="backstory_d.spc_wanderer_empire_7"/>
<!-- family was in sacked city, followed in wake of refugee columns. My father was a grain merchant in {IMPERIALCAPITAL}. Men such as he feed the city, yet they are hated when the price is high, and they do not sell at a loss. When the riots broke out, the riff-raff were not content to loot our warehouses. They attacked our house, and broke my father's skull with a weighing block -->
<!-- family was in sacked city, followed in wake of refugee columns. My father was a grain merchant in {IMPERIALCAPITAL}. Men such as he feed the city, yet they are hated when the price is high, and they do not sell at a loss. When the riots broke out, the riff-raff were not content to loot our warehouses. They attacked our house, and broke my father's skull with a weighing block -->
<string text="{=KNCnJN4n}I'll tell you my story. If it bothers you, I'd prefer you keep it to yourself - unless you've lived months on crusts of bread and chaff of grain, that is." id="prebackstory.spc_wanderer_empire_8"/>
<string text="{=KNCnJN4n}I'll tell you my tale. If it bothers you, I'd prefer you keep it to yourself - unless you've lived months on crusts of bread and chaff of grain, that is." id="prebackstory.spc_wanderer_empire_8"/>
<string text="{=pD92hewA}My father was a merchant in {IMPERIALCAPITAL}. We lived in a rich house, with many servants. I wanted for nothing. Our neighbor was a moneylender, who specialized in loans to the imperial guard. That turned out to be a bad neighborhood in which to live, when the riots came. " id="backstory_a.spc_wanderer_empire_8"/>
<string text="{=pD92hewA}My father was a merchant in {IMPERIALCAPITAL}. We lived in a rich house, with many servants. I wanted for nothing. Our neighbor was a moneylender, who specialized in loans to the imperial guard. That turned out to be a bad neighborhood in which to live, when the riots came. " id="backstory_a.spc_wanderer_empire_8"/>
<string text="{=OGyYFIEA}The guardsmen came to burn our neighbor's house, so their debts would be forgotten. The flames spread to our house, and it was destroyed. My father tried to save his strongbox, and that was his undoing. A riot is a holiday for thieves and robbers, and some saw him dragging it through the streets, so they knifed him and took it. We tried to find shelter with my uncle, but there was no food in the city, and he turned us out. So we joined the refugees in the country, living on what we could steal from the fields. " id="backstory_b.spc_wanderer_empire_8"/>
<string text="{=OGyYFIEA}The guardsmen came to burn our neighbor's house, so their debts would be forgotten. The flames spread to our house, and it was destroyed. My father tried to save his strongbox, and that was his undoing. A riot is a holiday for thieves and robbers, and some saw him dragging it through the streets, so they knifed him and took it. We tried to find shelter with my uncle, but there was no food in the city, and he turned us out. So we joined the refugees in the country, living on what we could steal from the fields. " id="backstory_b.spc_wanderer_empire_8"/>
<string text="{=aNSIajhR}I found a guardsman, alone and drunk. I have no idea whether he was one of the ones that set fire to our neighborhood. Maybe I should not have done to him what I did to him. But now I have his sword. It's been very useful." id="backstory_c.spc_wanderer_empire_8"/>
<string text="{=aNSIajhR}I found a guardsman, alone and drunk. So drunk he could not even move when he saw me... I have no idea whether he was one of the ones that set fire to our neighborhood. I-I...am not proud of what I did, but I had to survive. And so, now, I have his sword. It's been very useful." id="backstory_c.spc_wanderer_empire_8"/>
<string text="{=cGr6RvX7}The starving do what they must." id="response_1.spc_wanderer_empire_8"/>
<string text="{=cGr6RvX7}You had to survive and you did." id="response_1.spc_wanderer_empire_8"/>
<string text="{=iaagSMEa}And to think you had all the advantages of an educated childhood." id="response_2.spc_wanderer_empire_8"/>
<string text="{=iaagSMEa}And they say men can be wicked..." id="response_2.spc_wanderer_empire_8"/>
<string text="{=RZglJSZ3}I think my story shows that I am adaptable, at least. If there was room for me in a warlord's retinue, say, I imagine I could quickly learn whatever skills were needed." id="backstory_d.spc_wanderer_empire_8"/>
<string text="{=RZglJSZ3}But If you are employing I can do things such as cook, organise - E-Even use the sword I have to aid thee. Though do not rely on me with it. I am not yet trained... But I am eager!" id="backstory_d.spc_wanderer_empire_8"/>
<!-- female outlaw. Mascot, used as assassin as girl. Got older, men's antics not as funny. Gang leader nemesis -->
<!-- female outlaw. Mascot, used as assassin as girl. Got older, men's antics not as funny. Gang leader nemesis -->
<string text="{=ZhZlhNfn}Aye, so you want my story then?" id="prebackstory.spc_wanderer_empire_9"/>
<string text="{=ZhZlhNfn}Aye, so you would hear my story then?" id="prebackstory.spc_wanderer_empire_9"/>
<string text="{=Aqbu1o9v}Far back as I remember, I was living on the streets of {IMPERIALCAPITAL} with a bunch of other dirty, barefoot scrogs. A group of men in our alley, they called themselves the Centaurs, I guess they took a liking to me. Gave me special errands to run from them - started with picking pockets, ended with sticking knives into their enemies. Back then I'd do anything for a handful of figs and cheese and a pat on the head." id="backstory_a.spc_wanderer_empire_9"/>
<string text="{=Aqbu1o9v}Far back as I remember, I was on the streets of {IMPERIALCAPITAL} with a bunch of other dirty, barefoot scrogs. A group of men in our alley, they called themselves the Centaurs, I guess they took a liking to me. Gave me special errands to run from them - started with picking pockets, ended with sticking knives into their enemies. Back then I'd do anything for a handful of figs and cheese and a pat on the head." id="backstory_a.spc_wanderer_empire_9"/>
<string text="{=imBWFomj}Got a bit older though, and their interest in me changed. Filthy drunken louts pressing themselves against me, grabbing at me - I wasn't having that. Made up my mind to leave, but wasn't sure where to go." id="backstory_b.spc_wanderer_empire_9"/>
<string text="{=imBWFomj}Got a bit older though, bits started popping out on me, and their interest in me changed. They started pressing themselves against me, grabbing at me - At first it seemed fun, but then it became too much for me. I just didn`t want that... Not yet. Made my mind up to leave, but not sure where." id="backstory_b.spc_wanderer_empire_9"/>
<string text="{=axnObjSY}Then came the day that {IMPERIALCAPITAL} burned, and everyone was out looting and robbing, and that was my chance. Lifted a bag of silver from the Centaurs' stash and lit out on the road." id="backstory_c.spc_wanderer_empire_9"/>
<string text="{=axnObjSY}Then came the day that {IMPERIALCAPITAL} burned, and everyone was out looting and robbing, and that was my chance. Lifted a bag of silver from the Centaurs' stash and lit out on the road." id="backstory_c.spc_wanderer_empire_9"/>
<string text="{=LIYZlInR}A hard life, but I must admire your fortitude, at least." id="response_1.spc_wanderer_empire_9"/>
<string text="{=LIYZlInR}Such is life. Then what?" id="response_1.spc_wanderer_empire_9"/>
<string text="{=haiCZjua}You truly are the dregs of the street, my lady." id="response_2.spc_wanderer_empire_9"/>
<string text="{=haiCZjua}You truly are the dregs of the street, girl." id="response_2.spc_wanderer_empire_9"/>
<string text="{=aULjoDXL}Anyway, I wandered about a bit, but now I think it's time I found steady work. You wouldn't need someone to stick a knife in those that need sticking, do you?" id="backstory_d.spc_wanderer_empire_9"/>
<string text="{=aULjoDXL}Anyway, I wandered about a bit, but I need work. You wouldn't need someone to stick a knife in those that need sticking, do you?" id="backstory_d.spc_wanderer_empire_9"/>
<!-- surgeon - forced by intel to torture, guilt-racked -->
<!-- surgeon - forced by intel to torture, guilt-racked -->
<string text="{=rOUaG9iG}I can tell you my story, though it is painful to recall." id="prebackstory.spc_wanderer_empire_10"/>
<string text="{=rOUaG9iG}I... can give you some idea... of my fate..." id="prebackstory.spc_wanderer_empire_10"/>
<string text="{=0FHF0OXK}I'm a surgeon. I trained at the imperial academy in {IMPERIALCAPITAL}. I had many rich and influential patients in the town. I thought I was well shielded from the intrigues and dangers of the Empire. " id="backstory_a.spc_wanderer_empire_10"/>
<string text="{=0FHF0OXK}I know the healing arts... I trained at the imperial academy in {IMPERIALCAPITAL}. I had many rich and influential patients in the town. I thought I was well shielded from the intrigues and dangers of the Empire. " id="backstory_a.spc_wanderer_empire_10"/>
<string text="{=pzK7TN05}But one day I was contacted by an agent of the Bureau of Barbarian Affairs. I do not know how well you know them. Their original mission was to keep the foreign tribes divided and weak, but they expanded their remit into all the affairs of the empire, anything that might be deemed a threat. At first they wanted small harmless details about my patients. To do so was a violation of my oath, but I was anxious to have the favor of the Bureau. But soon they began to call on me for more and more." id="backstory_b.spc_wanderer_empire_10"/>
<string text="{=pzK7TN05}But one day I was contacted by an agent of the Bureau of Barbarian Affairs. I do not know how well you know them. Their original mission was to keep the foreign tribes divided and weak, but they expanded their remit into all the affairs of the empire, anything that might be deemed a threat. At first they wanted small harmless details about my patients. To do so was a violation of my oath, but I was anxious to have the favor of the Bureau. But soon they began to call on me for more and more." id="backstory_b.spc_wanderer_empire_10"/>
<string text="{=sfFLudTM}One time they came at midnight - they had a man who plotted against the Emperor, they said, and they needed a confession, and wished me to use my art to elicit that confession. If I refused, they said, they would disclose our relationship to my patients - I would be ruined. I went with them, to my shame, and what I was asked to do to that man's body -- I shall not repeat it." id="backstory_c.spc_wanderer_empire_10"/>
<string text="{=sfFLudTM}One time they came at midnight - they had a man who plotted against the Emperor, they said, and they needed a confession, and wished me to use my art to elicit that confession. If I refused, they said, they would disclose our relationship to my patients - I would be ruined. I went with them, to my shame, and what I was asked to do to that man's body -- I shall not repeat it." id="backstory_c.spc_wanderer_empire_10"/>
<string text="{=BIsvfC0x}You too are a victim of the hideous power of the state." id="response_1.spc_wanderer_empire_10"/>
<string text="{=BIsvfC0x}You too are a victim of the hideous power of the state." id="response_1.spc_wanderer_empire_10"/>
<string text="{=hikXX6zE}You broke your oath. It is not surprising that you fell further." id="response_2.spc_wanderer_empire_10"/>
<string text="{=hikXX6zE}You broke your oath. It is not surprising that you fell further." id="response_2.spc_wanderer_empire_10"/>
<string text="{=x50bW6NF}I should have refused - my practice was ruined anyway. To blot out the memory of that night, I took opium, until my pallid face so alarmed my patients that they no longer called on me. So I fled the city, and have wandered from town to town ever since. I would welcome steady work, if I could find it." id="backstory_d.spc_wanderer_empire_10"/>
<string text="{=x50bW6NF}I should have refused - everything was ruined anyway. To blot out the memory of that night, I took opium, until my pallid face so alarmed my patients that they no longer called on me. So I fled the city, and have wandered from town to town ever since. I would welcome steady work, if I could find it." id="backstory_d.spc_wanderer_empire_10"/>
<!-- empire 13, aristocrat who fled bad marriage, lord is nemesis -->
<!-- empire 13, aristocrat who fled bad marriage, lord is nemesis -->
<string text="{=CAiFXWEf}Yes... I can tell you my tale..." id="prebackstory.spc_wanderer_empire_11"/>
<string text="{=CAiFXWEf}Yes... I can tell you my tale..." id="prebackstory.spc_wanderer_empire_11"/>
<string text="{=FybsZ7yK}My father was a cataphract under the authority of {NEMESIS.NAME}. Alas, he died in battle against the Aserai, and I was placed under {NEMESIS.NAME}'s guardianship. He had eyes for my father's estate, modest as it was, so he arranged for me to be married to his cousin." id="backstory_a.spc_wanderer_empire_11"/>
<string text="{=FybsZ7yK}My father was a cataphract under the authority of {NEMESIS.NAME}. Alas, he died in battle against the Aserai, and I was placed under {NEMESIS.NAME}'s guardianship. He had eyes for my father's estate, modest as it was, so he arranged for me to be married to his cousin." id="backstory_a.spc_wanderer_empire_11"/>
<string text="{=omEoa2q7}But this cousin... I would not marry that man! He was a boor, a drunk - never there was a night that he did not reak of wine, never a morning that he did not reak of vomit! But a cataphract's daughter is not some chit you can marry against her will. I took a horse from my father's estate - my horse, legally - his old sword, and rode off." id="backstory_b.spc_wanderer_empire_11"/>
<string text="{=omEoa2q7}But this cousin... I would not marry that man! He was a boor, and disgusting! Below me! I am a Cataphract's daughter! Not one to suffer such disgusting demeanors! I know it is wrong to break my marriage vows, but I could not take any more of him! I took a horse from my father's estate - my horse, legally - his old sword, and away I fled." id="backstory_b.spc_wanderer_empire_11"/>
<string text="{=j7cE9DTZ}So, here I am. Perhaps I am not the most experienced of warriors, but I can learn. I cannot go back - I learned that {NEMESIS.NAME} filed suit that I stole a horse - my own horse, by right! - which shows you what a cad he is." id="backstory_c.spc_wanderer_empire_11"/>
<string text="{=j7cE9DTZ}So, here I am. I am not the most experienced of warriors, but I can learn. I cannot go back - I learned that {NEMESIS.NAME}He filed suit that I stole a horse - my own horse, by right! - which shows you what a cad he is." id="backstory_c.spc_wanderer_empire_11"/>
<string text="{=tx6L29wu}You've got spirit, I'll give you that." id="response_1.spc_wanderer_empire_11"/>
<string text="{=tx6L29wu}Hmm. I would prefer to hear both sides of this story, but say on..." id="response_1.spc_wanderer_empire_11"/>
<string text="{=O3Pkql2y}Takes more to being a warrior than a horse and a sword, young one." id="response_2.spc_wanderer_empire_11"/>
<string text="{=O3Pkql2y}And what makes you think the life among boorish military men will be any better, young one?" id="response_2.spc_wanderer_empire_11"/>
<string text="{=YfExAEAK}So, here I am, looking for a captain under whom to serve. And if I learn my trade well, perhaps I shall one day settle my account with {NEMESIS.NAME}!" id="backstory_d.spc_wanderer_empire_11"/>
<string text="{=YfExAEAK}All men cannot be as bad as him! Please- I am looking for a captain under whom to serve. And if I learn my trade well, perhaps I shall one day settle my account with {NEMESIS.NAME}!" id="backstory_d.spc_wanderer_empire_11"/>
<!-- female herbalist -->
<!-- female herbalist -->
<string text="{=xSbEUPK4}You know, we women suffer greatly when you warriors have your sport..." id="prebackstory.spc_wanderer_sturgia_0"/>
<string text="{=xSbEUPK4}You know, we commoners suffer greatly when you warriors have your sport..." id="prebackstory.spc_wanderer_sturgia_0"/>
<string text="{=ifBURmmv}I lived in a village to the north of here, across the gulf. It is a cruel land; there is no strong king, and lords think nothing of ravaging their neighbor's lands. My mother was skilled in the use of herbs to treat disease and wounds. I had a happy peaceful childhood - until one day, a month before I was to be married." id="backstory_a.spc_wanderer_sturgia_0"/>
<string text="{=ifBURmmv}I lived in a village to the north of here, across the gulf. It is could be a hard land; there is no strong king, and lords think nothing of ravaging their neighbor's lands. My mother was skilled in the use of herbs to treat disease and wounds. I was happy, due to married and have lots of children- until one day..." id="backstory_a.spc_wanderer_sturgia_0"/>
<string text="{=WBE6MeCl}That was the day my life changed. A band from a nearby village came and attacked us. We had done them no harm; we had never even thought of them as our enemies. But they wanted our cattle. They killed my mother and the youth who I was to marry, and burned our village. Everything gone. Those who lived fled into the woods." id="backstory_b.spc_wanderer_sturgia_0"/>
<string text="{=WBE6MeCl}That ... day my life changed. A band from a nearby village came and attacked us. We had done them no harm; we had never even thought of them as our enemies. But they wanted our cattle. They killed my mother and the handsome young man who I was to marry and have child with, and burned our village. Everything gone. The rest of us fled into the woods." id="backstory_b.spc_wanderer_sturgia_0"/>
<string text="{=hOsJjMZ8}I expect that my kin will soon return to their homes, but I will not. I cannot... I cannot be in a place where I am at the mercy of any beast on the rampage. I will ply my trade among warriors. I will learn to harm as well as to heal. And if the time comes for me to marry, I will live in a land where there is a king, even a tyrant, rather than raising a family amid the war of all against all." id="backstory_c.spc_wanderer_sturgia_0"/>
<string text="{=hOsJjMZ8}I expect that my kin will soon return to their homes, but not I. I cannot bear to be in a place where I am at the mercy of wickedness on the rampage. I will ply my trade among good warriors. And if the time comes for me to marry and bear many children, as I wish and a woman should be granted, I will live on a land where there is a king, even a tyrant, rather than raise a family amid the war of all against all." id="backstory_c.spc_wanderer_sturgia_0"/>
<string text="{=31XTldnZ}I am sorry for your fate, my lady." id="response_1.spc_wanderer_sturgia_0"/>
<string text="{=31XTldnZ}Tis unfortunate, the fate of you and your people, woman." id="response_1.spc_wanderer_sturgia_0"/>
<string text="{=l4A16aGs}It's a cruel world, and if you think a warrior's life is any easier, you have a painful lesson in store." id="response_2.spc_wanderer_sturgia_0"/>
<string text="{=l4A16aGs}It's a cruel world, and if you think a warrior's life is any easier, you have a painful lesson in store." id="response_2.spc_wanderer_sturgia_0"/>
<string text="{=iYbBHXNA}At any rate, if you know of a warband who is looking for someone who knows how to treat wounds, I would be grateful." id="backstory_d.spc_wanderer_sturgia_0"/>
<string text="{=iYbBHXNA}If you know of a warband who is looking for someone who knows how to treat wounds, I would be grateful." id="backstory_d.spc_wanderer_sturgia_0"/>
<!-- braggart backstory - found skolderbrotva too soft -->
<!-- braggart backstory - found skolderbrotva too soft -->
<string text="{=BuamWVTp}Yes.. My story... Jealousy, envy of my talents. That's always been my undoing." id="prebackstory.spc_wanderer_sturgia_1"/>
<string text="{=BuamWVTp}Yes.. My story... Jealousy, envy of my talents. That's always been my undoing." id="prebackstory.spc_wanderer_sturgia_1"/>
<string text="{=L14od7cC}When I was a boy, I was the best fighter in my village. 'You're stronger as a boy than a full-grown warrior,' people would say. I'm not boasting here - that's what they'd tell me. So when I came of age I went off to make my fortune." id="backstory_a.spc_wanderer_sturgia_1"/>
<string text="{=L14od7cC}When I was a boy, I was the best fighter in my village. 'You're stronger as a boy than a full-grown warrior,' people would say. I'm not boasting here - that's what they'd tell me. So when I came of age I went off to make my fortune." id="backstory_a.spc_wanderer_sturgia_1"/>
<string text="{=zb6VN6rr}Started in the Vaegir guard. I found that I was the only real warrior among them. They were all about marching here and there in their pretty uniforms, not pulling sword from scabbard for months on end. I told them what I thought, and my captain told me to keep my mouth shut or leave. So I left." id="backstory_b.spc_wanderer_sturgia_1"/>
<string text="{=zb6VN6rr}Started in the Vaegir guard. I found that I was the only real warrior among them. They were all about marching here and there in their pretty uniforms, not pulling sword from scabbard for months on end. I told them what I thought, and my captain told me to keep my mouth shut or leave. So I left." id="backstory_b.spc_wanderer_sturgia_1"/>
<string text="{=iAmsyL01}Then I joined the Skolderbrotva. The 'Shield Brothers.' It's a good name, you know? They spent most of their time hunkering behind their shields. Ha! Me, I'd wade into the midst of the enemy, dealing out death right and left - and, well, all they had to say afterward was 'Why didn't you keep ranks?'" id="backstory_c.spc_wanderer_sturgia_1"/>
<string text="{=iAmsyL01}Then I joined the Skolderbrotva. The 'Shield Brothers.' It's a good name, you know? They spent most of their time hunkering behind their shields. Ha! Me, I'd wade into the midst of the enemy, dealing out death right and left - and, well, all they had to say afterward was 'Why didn't you keep ranks?'" id="backstory_c.spc_wanderer_sturgia_1"/>
<string text="{=4ee0aofe}Hmm... Strange response." id="response_1.spc_wanderer_sturgia_1"/>
<string text="{=4ee0aofe}Hmm... Strange response." id="response_1.spc_wanderer_sturgia_1
<string text="{=FNuxKNBi}Has no one told you that leaving a gap in a shield wall is as good as treason?" id="response_2.spc_wanderer_sturgia_1"/>
<string text="{=qbYupvSJ}So I'm having no more of that. I'm on the look-out for an outfit that employs real fighters." id="backstory_d.spc_wanderer_sturgia_1"/>
<!-- gallant warrior backstory -->
<string text="{=RObjObjy}Certainly - I make no secret of my ambitions." id="prebackstory.spc_wanderer_sturgia_2"/>
<string text="{=NKLS5mN1}My father was one of the leading warriors of our clan, but in his last battle his hamstrung was cut. We've lived well off the wealth he brought home from his raids, buying land and thralls, but now I feel it's ti