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“That maxim speaks ill of scholars and wisdom, yet it claims that a sharp mind is important. Isn't that contradictory?” You seat yourself on the earth beside the old man as you speak, removing your helmet in the process. Perhaps if you keep him occupied, he won't cause such a commotion.
“Not at all! For a keen mind is not a bowl that has been filled to the brim with needless knowledge, but one that has been broken and given a jagged edge. There is but one book that a man needs to read in his life and that is the word of Frandar Do Hunding Hel Ansei No Shira! His way is that of the sword and the knowing of any teachings other than his is frivolous, young Naruq.”
Radan, who followed you over to speak with Ulbazar, gives you an awkward look. In return, you nod at him and gesture back towards the gates, where Janos is keeping an eye on things. The Lhotunic doesn't need to be told twice and takes his leave, to join the other bailiff while you talk with the old man.
What follows is a lengthy conversation about the nature of knowledge and violence, a nostalgic reminder of all of the culture that you left behind. Others might think of Ulbazar as a religious man, but the truth is that all of his ranting and raving is founded in ancient philosophy. Even among your tribe, there was no one who was as knowledgeable about the Way of the Sword as he is. He doesn't look like he was ever much of a warrior, as he lacks the battle scars that come with a soldier's life, yet there is no denying that he has committed every word written by the Sword Saint to memory. You can't help but admire the old fellow and how he's able to balance that sword on top of his head, even when he laughs or makes a sweeping gesture.
“You know, Ulbazar, you'd have a better chance of entering the city if you make yourself a little less... contentious. Get rid of the sword and keep your voice down, that sort of thing. Living outside of Taneth's walls can't be good for you.”
“Adversity is the key to a life lived!” The old man's beard quivers with indignation at your suggestion. “Your words are wise, but have you not listened to a word that I have said? All those who lead lives of virtue and enjoy the peace have the belligerent and the wilful to thank! None of the soft little men of Mundus would have ever had the chance to walk the road of the learned man, if that path was not hewn for them by savages and fools! I bellow and bray, so that this truth might never be forgotten!”
“Uh, forgive me for interrupting,” Radan says, having returned while Ulbazar was busy ranting, “but we need your assistance with something, sergeant – got a farmer reporting an issue with some trespassers.”
With a grunt, you shove yourself upright, though you fish around in your coin pouch for a few septims. They audibly clatter when they land in Ulbazar's alms bowl. “Here, old Crown. Hopefully that'll keep you fed for a couple of days.”
