Well, if you were already planning on joining that fight, this idea won't help you, but here goes.
One little side thing that's going on is a plot to lure the Anti-Paradox, the empire's enemies, into a trap to where they can be followed to their base. However, to do this plan, they have to get Burst Hearts from another, smaller town (smaller than Sudiban anyway). I was thinking you could be a local there and try resisting, then join the others when you unfortunately fail.
Just a thought.