A/N: Hey, sorry about the wait. I'll pick up the pace soon, don't worry. Well, what will happen to Jed?

I'm also very sorry this is so short.

Octavius's POV

I sprung through the open window into the Town Hall, leaving my metal helmet behind me and most likely dented from the abuse it took just a moment ago. Jedediah was slumped against the wall, holding his jaw with his left hand, blood dripping through his fingers and onto the edge of his pants and the floor.

Helping him to his feet, I pulled his hand from his face and inspecting the wound. It was not deep, though my head felt as though it would explode for lack of answers.

"Jedediah, I don't understand what is happening. I don't quite see why so many men want to demote you." My friend was now across he room from me, washing off his chin and jaw of blood in the sink.

"Bragdon's looking for power. He's wanted my position since we were old enough to apply for it. I've known is for years. But he will do anything, honest or otherwise, to get what he wants. And now he's realized I forgot to write down that our exhibits have an alliance in one of the many books it had to be written in, and he's going to milk the opportunity for all it's worth." Snatching a towel from the rack by the sink, Jed wiped of his face and tossed it into the sink in his anger. Or maybe it was frustration. Or perhaps both. It has always been hard to tell when it comes to him.

"This is something I understand well. The Empire has always been bubbling with corruption at every turn. Men burning bridges and friendships, even killing for their own gain."

"That's exactly what he would do, too."

"He will come after you." My concern for Jedediah was plain to see and I knew it, though I didn't bother attempting to conceal it.

"No. He won't. The tension between us has been too high for too long, and everyone would know immediately who did it." Thump! Jed had thrown himself onto one of the many benches hat lined the walls and center of the meeting hall. I followed suit, though I didn't plop down so hard it was at risk of cracking into two solid pieces. "I know one thing for a fact, though. Bragdon's playing hardball and isn't giving up any time soon."

I have insane writer's block right now, so 'm sorry this is so short. Bu any help you could give me would be very greatly appreciated. Thank you!