4.2 Influence

Glancing at Iason, you quickly refold the parchment then tuck it away. A slight frown covers your face as you consider the list of names that had been written on the parchment. "Bribery?" You question skeptically, while folding your arms over your chest. He shrugs lightly before replying, "You seemed willing enough to spend money earlier." While you're aware it's not an uncommon tactic, it does not come without its risks. Should you approach the wrong person, it could lead to removal from the election. Still, with the considerable wealth at your disposal it would put you at a great advantage. Taking Iason's advice, you begin with a few simple pay offs to minor yet slightly influential citizens. You keep the payments spread out over a few weeks in effort to prevent suspiciously large amounts of the treasury from leaving. Eventually, you steadily work your way up the ranks, moving towards the politicians and other nobles. When you reach the end of the list you learn that there are two people left who hold the most sway. Theocles, a governor of a neighboring providence. Along with Damasus, a high ranking member of the local consul.

It seems both hold enough popularity that they easily could have added their names to the election ballot. Instead, they would rather use their influence to help sway the vote. Requesting a meeting with either of these Officials should be easily accomplishable. However, in order to keep your true motives hidden, you will have to think of an ulterior reason for your visit. With the election drawing near and one of the men residing outside of the out city, you realize you're limited to visiting only one of them. With this knowledge, you spend what little time remains concocting a convincing ruse. Once you are satisfied with your plans, you find yourself left with the final decision; which leader to call upon. Both options are equally uncertain, at this point it's likely they've already been bought. If that is the case, you will have to offer a substantially larger compensation. After some debate, you finally make your decision. Feeling slightly anxious, you can only hope you have made the right choice as the week of your visit arrives. Steeling your nerves, you begin setting about the necessary arrangements.