Our passive characters and why the 2.55 story fails (BIG SPOILERS) (rant warning)

[Duelle]

So much of the entire situation is unknown to the general public. Many of the ordinary city folk don't even know that the Sultana is dead -- that she's 'sick'. Although maybe she is, but that's another theory.

I don't think it's unthinkable that the majority of the people either don't know or are unwilling to believe viscous lies about the hero that's saved them countless times.

Which sort of weakens the whole "let's frame the player character" bit.

Think of other stories where this plot element is used. Usually most of the populace buys whatever the authorities are telling them (even when wanting to believe otherwise) and you have a handful of sympathizers that help make it possible for the protagonist to clear their name (whether its by virtue of truly trusting the protag or simply not knowing of the "crime" is up to the author). Sure, you can tell me that the commoners in Ul'dah trust the brass blades and the syndicate as far as they can throw an overweight gobbue, but that raises other questions.

I'll concede that the public would probably riot if they were told the Sultana is dead, and the monetarists would want to keep that part of the story from the public to prevent such an uprising; that is, until they can come up with a convincing story for the public or they conjure up a lookalike for them to manipulate (unless Nanamo is alive and they somehow "reprogram" her to do exactly as they tell her).

[Parodine]

.

I think the rioting is key. They derive power from money, much of which is hinged on the people and trade. If they revealed the Sultana is dead and riots did ensue, their plan definitely crumbles. The brass blades and traitor crystal braves will go wherever the money is. And if they lose that, they lose their 'army'. If Swift and Pippin can be believed, the Immortal Flames are likely on our side. They certainly don't seem to believe Raubahn deserves imprisonment, anyway.