The Broken Throne (for TheAnnoyingNoob)

[Xatarias]

"He had some pressing business to attend to, but should make an appearance later on."


The orc's vagueness is no doubt intentional, reminding you again, for all his friendliness, Grup is still your keeper. He observes you carefully, gauging your reaction, no doubt wondering if you have some insight into the "business" Lu'rak was currently engaged in.


"And yourself, Roxana? It can't be easy living in such uncertain times."


Over his shoulder, you notice Tara discretely signaling towards you. She must have picked up on some information while you were dealing with the previous confrontation.

 

[TheAnnoyingNoob]

My heart sank at Grup's words. Hopefully it wasn't another dispute. If it was, and it required the princes' direct intervention...  "I see. I hope it's nothing too serious then. I've been... I would like to say well, but today has honestly passed too quickly for me to say much. Perhaps I'll have come to grips with the situation by tomorrow."


Catching sight of Tara, I continue, "My apologies again, Grup, but it seems one of my more trusted servants has discovered something that requires my attention. I look forward to another one of your lessons, should you be inclined to continue them." Crossing the room to Tara's position I greet her with a casual nod and speak in a tone that, while not conspiratorially low, should in all likeliness be masked by the general conversation of the room, "Yes, servant? What is the matter?"

 

[Xatarias]

"I think I figured out why Lu'rak is so late," Tara murmurs back, keeping her gaze respectfully lowered. "The guilds just convened a meeting a few hours after the palace was closed. They didn't expressively invite the prince... But then again, they didn't keep it secret either."


If the aristocracy was the governing power of Fastalan, then the guilds were certainly the source of its financial might. A private group of wealthy craftsmen, merchants, and moneylenders, the guilds held almost as much collective influence as some of the great noble houses. Historically, they had been a thorn in the side of the monarchy, demanding expanded rights for non-noble property rights and blatantly lobbying for more influence at the palace... More recently, their power had grown dramatically as the crown slipped further and further in debt. 

 

[TheAnnoyingNoob]

Not the damn guilds. Give them an inch and they'll walk away with a mile. If only father had listened, used his authority to annul the crown debts... Sure the guilds would be angered, but they were far to influential already. It will be interesting to see how Lu'rak deals with them, though perhaps he has only attended to understand how they operate.


I let out a tired sigh, "No good ever comes from dealing with the guilds, though perhaps he'll be able to reign them in. He doesn't seem to be the kind of person to let others hold any power over him. How do you interpret his meeting with the guilds?"

 

[Xatarias]

"I think," Tara says slowly, "That the possibility of our two greatest adversaries joining forces is troubling... Lu'rak has made no effort to reassure the nobility of its security, maybe he intends to seek his support elsewhere. He could give the guilds the legitimacy they have always craved."


Dealing with the guilds' council was like delving into a den of vipers, but Tara is right to voice concern... You needed more information and quickly. Luckily the palace was the center of gossip and intrigue. While guild representatives weren't amongst the party goers, there were plenty of nobles on their payroll that were.

 

[TheAnnoyingNoob]

I let out a tired sigh, scanning the clustered nobles for any I knew to be associated with the guilds. "I suppose it's safest to assume the worst. Thank you, Tara, I'd hate to have been caught off guard by something as serious as this."


Catching sight of one such noble I made my way over to him, asking after several others on the way in an attempt to gauge the mood of the court after the... dispute I had attempted to resolve. Finally reaching him I neatly curtsied, "It's been a long time, Sir. If you have a moment to spare, I wish to ask you a few questions about how the guilds are handling the recent... regime change."

 

[Xatarias]

The noble, Argus is his name, you recall, strokes his beard nervously and looks behind himself. When he realizes that the crown princess is indeed addressing him, he fumbles a bow and tries to play dumb.


"O-oh good evening, your highness. It is always a pleasure, by all means, I am at your disposal-"


He catches himself, now just processing your request. He stares at you for several seconds and licks his lips several times. No doubt he thought his shady arrangements were a safe secret, but nothing was beyond the ears of the palaces service staff. You know each and every one of his dirty dealings... It was just a matter of convincing him of that fact.


"The g-guilds, Highness? I'm sure you're a aware I dabble in commodities as a pastime, but nothing on a scale that would involve the guilds. I can only assume, as your loyal subjects, that the council leaders are concerned over our city's... Tenuous situation."

 

[TheAnnoyingNoob]

Lowering my voice, though still trying to avoid sounding conspiratorial, I reply, "Argus, I know you have had.. rather extensive dealings with the guilds. As much as I disapprove of such dealings I mean you and your ventures no harm, I simply wish to inquire as to the nature of some of the guilds most recent activities. If it would please you to be in a less public place, somewhere out of earshot of the rest of the court, I'm sure I could find someone willing to chaperone such a venture."

 

[Xatarias]

Despite your offer of secrecy, Argus gives in to his knee-jerk reaction of protesting... Loudly.


"I-I have no idea what you are referring to, M'lady," He stammers. "My dealings have been conducted within all legal boundaries! Y-you have no right to be making such inquiries."


Gods, if he keeps talking, everyone in the ballroom is going to overhear, giving away your suspicions of Lu'raks machinations. You have no choice but to let him scramble away to another corner of the ballroom.


Like a shadow, Tara appears at your side.


"We have men in place for your protection, Highness. I could send word to one of them to apprehend undersecretary Argus.... Quietly, of course."

 

[TheAnnoyingNoob]

I tried and, I suspected, failed to hide my annoyance at Argus' response. "I appreciate your concern, Servant, but I don't believe that is necessary." Clearing my throat I smiled and addresses the undersecretary again. "Sir, I have no doubt all of your ventures were conducted in an entirely legal fashion. If you would like me to drop the matter for the night I would be more than happy to do so." Curtsying, I turned and left. Gods, how did Father ever deal with these imbeciles. Perhaps I would have better luck later, if I visited him at his quarters tomorrow evening. With a chaperone, of course. No need to stir up any more gossip than necessary. More frustrated than I could ever remember being I resigned myself to simple small talk with the court and the occasional attempt at starting a conversation with some of the Orcish guests present.

 

[Xatarias]

"You look pleasant this evening, Highness."


Orcish princes must enter unannounced, you realize, as Lu'rak surprises you after you turn from a bit of small talk with an elderly countess. He looks as imperious as ever with a burnished breastplate and fur-lined cloak. At least he isn't wearing a sword.


"Grup tells me you've been quite busy. I didn't think you the type for swordplay, but he says you might be nurturing some latent talent." His accented words flow smoothly as he politely offers his arm. "Shall we take a turn about the room? Perhaps you could make some introductions? I'm afraid I'm unfamiliar with the aristocracy beyond a few intelligence briefings."


What you wouldn't give to get your hands on those reports.

 

[TheAnnoyingNoob]

Excusing myself from my conversation with the countess, I take Tu'rok's offered arm. "I have indeed my Lord, and I have found Grup to be quite the instructor." I grin, unable to hide my glee when I hear he wishes to be introduced to the nobles present. "I'd be honored to introduce you, though I'm afraid the court may dread such an encounter. This," I say, gesturing to Tara, "is my servant Tara. We've known each other since I was a small child. If ever you have need of me she will know where I am." Motioning for Tara to accompany us as we start our circuit, I ask, "Is there anyone you feel especially compelled to make acquaintance with, or shall I introduce the court as we come across them tonight?"

 

[Xatarias]

"Well for starters, you might introduce me to the various nobles you have hidden about the city."


He says it like a joke, but the prince's eyes are hard, taking in your reaction. Then, the moment of tension evaporates and he continues the conversation like it never happened. You escort Lu'rak about the ballroom introducing him to nobles of all categories of influence. After herding these aristocrats about for weeks, it is a guilty pleasure to see them quail before the impressive orcish warlord.


Lu'rak for his part, acts courteously and introduces you to members of his retinue. You have an extended conversation with R'zat, the orc who narrowly avoided the duel before. It turns out, he is commander of the great cannons that accompanied the Almatine army. Despite the earlier dispute, it turns out the artillerist has a sense of humor.


"I must admit, highness, it was a disappointment to come all this way without firing my beauties. But then, it would have been a shame to mar the walls of this city. She truly is a gem to behold."

 

[TheAnnoyingNoob]

My face darkens at Lu'rak's words. "They hid when they felt there was a danger to themselves. Perhaps with time they will feel safe, and I may introduce you to them."


When we reach R'zat I grin at his infectious humor. "Perhaps with the Prince's blessing I could lead an insurrection then? I myself would love to see your artillery at work. Jokes aside, however, I thank you for the complement. The walls of Fastalan have been out pride for centuries. Oh, and I do apologize for our... dispute, earlier."

 

[Xatarias]

Lu'rak is obviously surprised you would admit knowing the location of his potential adversaries. For once, the fierce warlord is at a loss for words and you stride together in silence for a few moments. His expression doesn't give away much, and it's a supreme relief to engage R'zat in conversation, if only to put distance between yourself and that awkward exchange.


"There isn't much sport in fighting one so young," R'zat says airily, waving aside the issue of the duel. "Think nothing of it, Kal'visi. I must say though, I was surprised by your... Direct methods of intervention. I was led to believe women in this culture weren't welcomed within the realm of politics and diplomacy."


You can think of a few exceptions to that statement, but for the most part, the orc is correct. Ironic how it took the greatest crisis Fastalan has ever faced for a woman like yourself to realize her fullest potential.

 

[TheAnnoyingNoob]

As R'zat spoke I felt an intense sense of pride. "Indeed, with a few notable exceptions Fastalanian women are... discouraged from becoming as active as I am, though few in the court seem comfortable enough with the current situation to challenge me." After a moment of hesitation I continued, "In fact, Sir Grup has seen fit to grant my request for a tutor in the fine art of swordsmanship by giving me personal lessons in the palace gardens. Perhaps if you have some time to spare in the coming days you could attend one of our sessions?"

 

[Xatarias]

R'zat gives Lu'rak a hesitant look. When the prince nods, he gives you a gracious smile.


"Of course, Kal'visi. I would be honored. A fine opportunity to take Grup up on his offer."


Seeing your confused expression, he explains, "The armsmaster offered me a friendly duel in exchange for not drawing the blood of your countryman in front of you. I must say, you had already persuaded me, but I wasn't going to say no to the opportunity. The Prince's bodyguard doesn't often lower himself to fighting for sport."


"You were cunning to seize the army's most prominent fighters as you personal tutor, " Lu'rak says with a small smile. "I expect to see some progress in the coming weeks."

 

[TheAnnoyingNoob]

"You flatter me, Prince. I simply saw a fine swordsman and sought his aid."


Then turning to address R'zat I replied, "Perhaps seeing such skilled swordsmen in action will teach me more than I could hope to learn in the course of a usual session. I look forward to it."


(Sorry for the slowdown and shorter replies)

 

[Xatarias]

(Insight roll: 15)


The music begins to pick up and dancing begins to break out. It is a bizarre sight watching the graceful line patterns of Fastalan clash with the more free-form partner dances of Almatine. While you can't claim to know much of the orcish style of dance, you don't have a shortage of males- even some women- offering to teach you. Even Lu'rak offers arm to you for a song.


But even as the festivities rise to full swing, you keep your eyes and ears open. Just as you finish up a conversation with a foreign dignitary from the Merfolk Isles, you catch sight of the Guild toady, Argus.


The nobleman slinks at the edge of the ballroom, clearly wishing to avoid being seen. You follow his movements up until he slips out a servants' exit leading towards the cellars and kitchen complex.

 

[TheAnnoyingNoob]

Quickly catching the attention of a passing servant, I explained that I would be leaving and that, if anyone inquired after me that I would be in my quarters. Signaling for Tara to follow, I made my way out the same servants exit Argus had made his exit through.

 

[Xatarias]

(Precision roll: 9)


You slip through the small, narrow doorway and into the passage beyond. Tara follows close behind as you stalk the shadowy figure of Argus moving down a flight of stairs.


This system of tunnels and hallways are imbedded within the walls of the palace so that servants can come and go about there business without there betters being bothered by their presence. It is truly labyrinthine and without Tara's guidance, you would more than likely end up hopelessly lost. The question was, how did Argus know where he was going?


The sound of voices causes you to halt at a corner. Glancing around, you see Argus conversing with a hooded figure. The stranger is tall and his features are obscured in the gloom, but you recognize his voice as male.


"-definitely on to us! If ever she found out-"


"Of she suspects, you worm. This is what you come to me with, that the princess suspects? Need I remind you that my confidence in you has already been shaken? This arrangement isn't set in stone, Argus. I'm sure you understand what would happen if I lost confidence in you."


"N-no! I've told you everything I know! I just-"


The man silences him with a wave and peers past Argus's shoulder. You try and hold your breath, but something must have betrayed your presence, because the stranger begins moving in your direction! You need to think fast if you want to avoid detection.

 

[TheAnnoyingNoob]

Quickly glancing about, I desperately tried and failed to find a place to hide in the spartan corridor. That's it then, I step out and... No, just maybe if I-


My heart hammering in my chest, I pressed myself into a corner and pulled Tara in front of me, silently mouthing "Hide me." Before pulling her close for a passionate kiss. Gods, all the ways this could go wrong!

 

[Xatarias]

(Okay, I felt bad about not giving you enough info to adequately hide yourself, but this is pretty great. We'll just say it works )


Tara's eyes widen as you abruptly reposition yourself. Hearing footsteps and quickly grasping the gravity of the situation, the handmaid pushes you against the cobwebbed wall, obscuring your face in the gloom. She tilts her head, accepting your theatrical kiss and makes an appropriately surprised-sounding squeal when Argus rounds the corner. You have the presence of mind to drop to the floor behind Tara's skirts in the flurry of motion that takes place as you disentangle yourselves.


"I-I I'm sorry my lord, we didn't know you were here! A thousand pardons, my lord!"


"W-wait a moment! I insist-"


Argus's protests grow muffled as suddenly, you are pulled to your feet and find yourself running fast behind Tara, taking a series of mind-bending turns and secret passages. One last door takes you through the hidden entrance to your bedchambers and you deposit yourselves in a sweaty, musty heap on the bed.


"Let's... Let's not do that again," Tara gasps with a nervous smile on her lips. 

 

[TheAnnoyingNoob]

(Hey, we got something fun in the end anyway )


Gasping for breath, my heart still pounding in my chest I giggle at Tara's subdued response. "Yes, let's not. Gods, how stupid was that!" Rolling onto my side and looking into Tara's eyes with a mischievous grin I continued, "Could you imagine the scandal if either of them recognized me!"


Taking a moment to catch my breath I rise from the bed, "Well, I suppose we have the night to ourselves now. Could you help me find something more... subdued, to wear?"

 

[Xatarias]

"Rox... A scandal would have been the least of our worries if they had caught us. Argus might be a cowardly toad, but that other one gave me a bad feeling." Seeing your expression, Tara's face softens. "But it paid off. We know that Argus is definitely informing for someone. Better to know who you're against than remain blissfully ignorant."


She plants a soft kiss on your forehead.


"But let's leave the heroics to Malius or one of the other guard, shall we? You're too important to go chasing leads yourself... Come on, let's get you cleaned up."


The excitement seems to have worn down the barriers of etiquette Tara usually hides behind. It's almost like back when you were younger, when things like protocol and tradition didn't weigh so heavily in your day to day life. Your clothes have been changed to more comfortable lounge wear and your hair neatly braided back. You feel a careful hand slip up your thigh, warm and familiar.


"If you'd like... I could stay for the night," Tara murmurs, lips against your neck. Her words convey a gentle willingness but don't bear the heat of seduction. Your friend was here for you in whatever way you needed her to be.

 

[TheAnnoyingNoob]

Closing my eyes I let out a tired, if still exited sigh. "I'm sorry, Tata, but I'm afraid that won't do. I have to lead the proverbial charge; it's just in my nature." Smiling when I felt her hand brush up against my thigh, I looked up at her and my expression quickly became a frown. "Are you okay, Tata? You're not usually open to improprieties like that..." As worried as I know I sound, I hope she doesn't take it the wrong way.


"I'd be delighted to play host to one such as yourself, my Lady, but won't the servants talk about your disappearance? Given your own standards, I wouldn't want you to deal with scandalous rumors."

 

[Xatarias]

"No! I just- I thought... Nevermind, I didn't mean to presume."


Your maid inclines her head and turns just as a knock on the door draws your attention. It turns out to be Malius. The guard captain visibly exhales with relief after catching sight of you.


"Thank the gods, Highness. You vanished so suddenly, I didn't know what to think. And with the party ending the way it did, I thought... Well-"


Seeing your blank expression, the grizzled soldier must realize that he knows something you do not. His expression turns grim.


"It's Argus, my lady. He's dead. A page found him with his throat cut in one of the servant passages... We don't know who carried it out and the Orc has ordered an investigation. We would do well to find out who committed the dead before Lu'rak does... That is, if the assassin didn't act under his command in the first place."

 

[TheAnnoyingNoob]

I was taken aback by Tara's response. I had said it all in jest and was about to apologize when Malius walked in. "Has Lu'rak sealed the palace? If not, give the order and inform him I have taken the liberty of doing so. No one but Lu'rak and his men are to be permitted to leave, and I mean no one."


Looking to Tara I asked, "Would you be able to determine if the passage Argus was found in was..." I left the question hanging, unsure how Malius would take my presence in the servants tunnels.

 

[Xatarias]

Tara nods.


"It won't be too much trouble to find the page that made the discovery. I'll begin making inquiries immediately."


Malius also takes his leave, but not before summoning a servant you quickly recognize as one of the disbanded palace guard. The captain must really be worried for your safety if he thought it necessary to bring one of his men out of the shadows, disguised or not.


Tara soon returns with the information that Garus was in fact murdered in a different servant passage from where you eavesdropped on his conversation with the mysterious stranger. The crime scene isn't all that far from that location though, and the time table suggests that the shady noble was killed soon after you fled his presence. Perhaps the guilds decided he wasn't worth keeping as an informant anymore... Or some other faction discovered his allegiances and quietly removed him.


"Unfortunately, all we have are rumors and the most general knowledge of Garus's dealings. Most everyone knew he sold secrets, but the buyers remain in the shadows... The real question is whether Garus knew who he was working for. If I was dealing with dangerous people, I would want insurance to assure my safety. If he kept information about his activities, it's likely hidden in his villa."

 

[TheAnnoyingNoob]

(Who's this Garus git? )


"Would it be possible," I asked, an idea slowly forming I my mind, "to disguise me as another servant, and for the two of us to sneak out and make our way to his villa? And if not, would you be able to identify the man Argus was speaking to if you saw him again?"