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He had considered leaving three times already, second guessing his decision in requesting this meet, his commitment wavering. It was an unfamiliar feeling for one who was usually quite steadfast in their feelings. But then, it was not the sort of thing one chose to do lightly, he supposed.
Achilleas had not known where to suggest they might meet- he was entirely unused to skulking around, and in the end it had been Krysto who had proposed the order house. As a group, they operated independently from the ruling House, and his association with the order meant it was not unheard of for him to be seen at the premises, and as such it would go unremarked upon. And within, he hoped he could expect a little privacy.
Such measures did not mean he did not feel wholly uncomfortable though, and the lord was irritated that he had arrived first. He didn’t like to be kept waiting at the best of times, and now, almost fizzing with nerves, every moment that his expected guest did not put in an appearance was another that he considered calling the whole thing off. Achilleas’ fingers tapped a staccato rhythm upon the arm of the klismos he sat upon, his expression set.
There had been much he had learned over the past weeks that - in isolation - had seemed a little odd. And then as time slid by and he began to think things through, then together they were even less agreeable. The subtly engineered criticisms of his cousin,the seamless way his father had slid into the palati to help, the case brought against Stephanos by the man himself and the care that Achilleas could guess at having been put into securing those votes..
It sat in his stomach like a lead weight, but there was no denying that it spoke of a grab for power. And then to hear how his cousins thought it went beyond that, that Irakles would not be content with assumed power and a discredited King. That he wanted Stephanos dead, his unborn child too.
For the man who had spent his life trying to win the favour of his father, it was a bruising admission to make: that the one he had strived to impress would do something he found so abhorrent. It was how Achilleas had rationalised his blindness in this all. He hadn’t wanted to see it, and so he had not, and had been every bit as complacent as his cousin had accused him of being. As Theodora had accused him of being.
And so after much consideration, sleeplessness and and an unrelenting feeling of unease, the Lord Mikaelidas had reached out to a man that he had looked upon with suspicion only a week before. A man who served not Taengea but Colchis, and who carried secrets for a foreign King.
Achilleas could only convince himself that it was not treason because he knew of nothing definite to tell. He had no grand revelation only to make,only a confidence in his own father that was shaken enough to see him uncertain in what was best for Taengea going forwards.
He pushed to his feet again, too much nervous energy to sit still, energy that he wanted to rid himself of before Magnus arrived, for it would not do for him to reveal just how unsettled he felt in all of this. Achilleas poured himself a cup of wine, a habit that he usually eschewed but that had become almost familiar in recent days, and he took a large sip before diluting with water from the bronze ewer that sat beside the jug of red.
There was no easy solution for him in this.
To bring Stephanos back..If it happened he could see only his father’s death as a result. For him to deliberately aid such a cause? It drew sharp lines of tension across his face and left a bitter taste in his mouth that he was sure was betrayal. Achilleas had never thought himself one who would betray those he held dear, least of all his own blood.
But the Stephanos was also his kin, and that was where the issue lay. For the son of Irakles could not make himself see a way that what had happened had been lawful or fair, and so the right thing to do, for Taengea, was surely to restore the rightful King to the throne?
He took another sip of wine, drew it back through his teeth as he considered what he might say to the master informer when he arrived, but no sooner had he considered it, than there was a knock on the door and Krysto opened it, shooting his commander a meaningful look. Achilleas pulled his shoulders back and set down the wine, turning a cool gaze upon his visitor.
“Master Magnus. I am glad you could join me” His voice at least sounded surer than he felt, the reality of what he intended wrapping like a band about his chest. The Mikaelidas lord offered the Colchian a cup of wine, and nodded to Krysto to leave them, confident in the knowledge that the soldier would remain outside the door to head off any intrusion, and avoid interruption.He had no want to explain away why he would be meeting with the Colchian master informer to anyone.
Achilleas waited for the man to make himself comfortable, and then spoke again, drawing his lines in the sand before they got much further. “Why are you still in Vasiliadon, friend?”
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He had considered leaving three times already, second guessing his decision in requesting this meet, his commitment wavering. It was an unfamiliar feeling for one who was usually quite steadfast in their feelings. But then, it was not the sort of thing one chose to do lightly, he supposed.
Achilleas had not known where to suggest they might meet- he was entirely unused to skulking around, and in the end it had been Krysto who had proposed the order house. As a group, they operated independently from the ruling House, and his association with the order meant it was not unheard of for him to be seen at the premises, and as such it would go unremarked upon. And within, he hoped he could expect a little privacy.
Such measures did not mean he did not feel wholly uncomfortable though, and the lord was irritated that he had arrived first. He didn’t like to be kept waiting at the best of times, and now, almost fizzing with nerves, every moment that his expected guest did not put in an appearance was another that he considered calling the whole thing off. Achilleas’ fingers tapped a staccato rhythm upon the arm of the klismos he sat upon, his expression set.
There had been much he had learned over the past weeks that - in isolation - had seemed a little odd. And then as time slid by and he began to think things through, then together they were even less agreeable. The subtly engineered criticisms of his cousin,the seamless way his father had slid into the palati to help, the case brought against Stephanos by the man himself and the care that Achilleas could guess at having been put into securing those votes..
It sat in his stomach like a lead weight, but there was no denying that it spoke of a grab for power. And then to hear how his cousins thought it went beyond that, that Irakles would not be content with assumed power and a discredited King. That he wanted Stephanos dead, his unborn child too.
For the man who had spent his life trying to win the favour of his father, it was a bruising admission to make: that the one he had strived to impress would do something he found so abhorrent. It was how Achilleas had rationalised his blindness in this all. He hadn’t wanted to see it, and so he had not, and had been every bit as complacent as his cousin had accused him of being. As Theodora had accused him of being.
And so after much consideration, sleeplessness and and an unrelenting feeling of unease, the Lord Mikaelidas had reached out to a man that he had looked upon with suspicion only a week before. A man who served not Taengea but Colchis, and who carried secrets for a foreign King.
Achilleas could only convince himself that it was not treason because he knew of nothing definite to tell. He had no grand revelation only to make,only a confidence in his own father that was shaken enough to see him uncertain in what was best for Taengea going forwards.
He pushed to his feet again, too much nervous energy to sit still, energy that he wanted to rid himself of before Magnus arrived, for it would not do for him to reveal just how unsettled he felt in all of this. Achilleas poured himself a cup of wine, a habit that he usually eschewed but that had become almost familiar in recent days, and he took a large sip before diluting with water from the bronze ewer that sat beside the jug of red.
There was no easy solution for him in this.
To bring Stephanos back..If it happened he could see only his father’s death as a result. For him to deliberately aid such a cause? It drew sharp lines of tension across his face and left a bitter taste in his mouth that he was sure was betrayal. Achilleas had never thought himself one who would betray those he held dear, least of all his own blood.
But the Stephanos was also his kin, and that was where the issue lay. For the son of Irakles could not make himself see a way that what had happened had been lawful or fair, and so the right thing to do, for Taengea, was surely to restore the rightful King to the throne?
He took another sip of wine, drew it back through his teeth as he considered what he might say to the master informer when he arrived, but no sooner had he considered it, than there was a knock on the door and Krysto opened it, shooting his commander a meaningful look. Achilleas pulled his shoulders back and set down the wine, turning a cool gaze upon his visitor.
“Master Magnus. I am glad you could join me” His voice at least sounded surer than he felt, the reality of what he intended wrapping like a band about his chest. The Mikaelidas lord offered the Colchian a cup of wine, and nodded to Krysto to leave them, confident in the knowledge that the soldier would remain outside the door to head off any intrusion, and avoid interruption.He had no want to explain away why he would be meeting with the Colchian master informer to anyone.
Achilleas waited for the man to make himself comfortable, and then spoke again, drawing his lines in the sand before they got much further. “Why are you still in Vasiliadon, friend?”
He had considered leaving three times already, second guessing his decision in requesting this meet, his commitment wavering. It was an unfamiliar feeling for one who was usually quite steadfast in their feelings. But then, it was not the sort of thing one chose to do lightly, he supposed.
Achilleas had not known where to suggest they might meet- he was entirely unused to skulking around, and in the end it had been Krysto who had proposed the order house. As a group, they operated independently from the ruling House, and his association with the order meant it was not unheard of for him to be seen at the premises, and as such it would go unremarked upon. And within, he hoped he could expect a little privacy.
Such measures did not mean he did not feel wholly uncomfortable though, and the lord was irritated that he had arrived first. He didn’t like to be kept waiting at the best of times, and now, almost fizzing with nerves, every moment that his expected guest did not put in an appearance was another that he considered calling the whole thing off. Achilleas’ fingers tapped a staccato rhythm upon the arm of the klismos he sat upon, his expression set.
There had been much he had learned over the past weeks that - in isolation - had seemed a little odd. And then as time slid by and he began to think things through, then together they were even less agreeable. The subtly engineered criticisms of his cousin,the seamless way his father had slid into the palati to help, the case brought against Stephanos by the man himself and the care that Achilleas could guess at having been put into securing those votes..
It sat in his stomach like a lead weight, but there was no denying that it spoke of a grab for power. And then to hear how his cousins thought it went beyond that, that Irakles would not be content with assumed power and a discredited King. That he wanted Stephanos dead, his unborn child too.
For the man who had spent his life trying to win the favour of his father, it was a bruising admission to make: that the one he had strived to impress would do something he found so abhorrent. It was how Achilleas had rationalised his blindness in this all. He hadn’t wanted to see it, and so he had not, and had been every bit as complacent as his cousin had accused him of being. As Theodora had accused him of being.
And so after much consideration, sleeplessness and and an unrelenting feeling of unease, the Lord Mikaelidas had reached out to a man that he had looked upon with suspicion only a week before. A man who served not Taengea but Colchis, and who carried secrets for a foreign King.
Achilleas could only convince himself that it was not treason because he knew of nothing definite to tell. He had no grand revelation only to make,only a confidence in his own father that was shaken enough to see him uncertain in what was best for Taengea going forwards.
He pushed to his feet again, too much nervous energy to sit still, energy that he wanted to rid himself of before Magnus arrived, for it would not do for him to reveal just how unsettled he felt in all of this. Achilleas poured himself a cup of wine, a habit that he usually eschewed but that had become almost familiar in recent days, and he took a large sip before diluting with water from the bronze ewer that sat beside the jug of red.
There was no easy solution for him in this.
To bring Stephanos back..If it happened he could see only his father’s death as a result. For him to deliberately aid such a cause? It drew sharp lines of tension across his face and left a bitter taste in his mouth that he was sure was betrayal. Achilleas had never thought himself one who would betray those he held dear, least of all his own blood.
But the Stephanos was also his kin, and that was where the issue lay. For the son of Irakles could not make himself see a way that what had happened had been lawful or fair, and so the right thing to do, for Taengea, was surely to restore the rightful King to the throne?
He took another sip of wine, drew it back through his teeth as he considered what he might say to the master informer when he arrived, but no sooner had he considered it, than there was a knock on the door and Krysto opened it, shooting his commander a meaningful look. Achilleas pulled his shoulders back and set down the wine, turning a cool gaze upon his visitor.
“Master Magnus. I am glad you could join me” His voice at least sounded surer than he felt, the reality of what he intended wrapping like a band about his chest. The Mikaelidas lord offered the Colchian a cup of wine, and nodded to Krysto to leave them, confident in the knowledge that the soldier would remain outside the door to head off any intrusion, and avoid interruption.He had no want to explain away why he would be meeting with the Colchian master informer to anyone.
Achilleas waited for the man to make himself comfortable, and then spoke again, drawing his lines in the sand before they got much further. “Why are you still in Vasiliadon, friend?”
He did not intend to stay in the Order House for long. His arrival here had been to meet the crown prince and the rest of the Colchian party which had made the voyage to Taengea just shy over a month ago. Now that they have left just a week or so ago, Magnus had intended to find other quarters as he did not wish to further impose on the royal houses of Taengea. Having intended to find proper rooms to sleep in one of the many inns in Vasiliadon however, proved more difficult then he thought, with the upcoming wedding of two notable members of royal houses. It meant many visitors from provinces all over Taengea were arriving to witness the union of Mikaelidas and Leventi.
It also left Magnus with nowhere to go.
So unwittingly and apologetically, he had to call upon a favor to extend his stay in the Order House. Of course, as a man whose helped just as many as he's harmed, Magnus had many upon which he could call on favors, and his week had been busy afterall. The Master Informer had spent his waking hours more out then in, busy meeting with people be it in brightly lit sitting rooms of noble and royal quarters, or with more questionable figures in shaded alleyways, where coin and silk was exchanged, with the occasional kiss and grope. Ever efficient at his job, he sought to find all the information he could before returning to Colchis to present his findings to his crown prince.
That was all Vangelis had tasked him to do afterall.
What stood out to Magnus most however, was his inability to find the two witnesses that had been called to stand earlier during the Senate meet where the young and accused king had been first called to question. That in itself begged his investigation, but before the dark-haired male could get a move on, he had received a caller who informed him of someone Magnus could not reject. A man who had looked so suspicious of him just a week ago.
What could he ask for now?
Pulling his himation over his soft and slightly rumpled navy blue chiton, Magnus hurried down the steps of the Order House to the receiving chamber, and then stepped in after the commander, smiling as he gave a respectful bow to who was supposedly prince at this point, since his father was Prince Regeant for now. "Lord Achilleas, I must confess, your summons has me curious, I could not resist." Taking the proferred cup of wine and taking a sip (if there was one thing Magnus enjoyed in the wayward and boisterous kingdom, it was their wine), the man took a seat and waited till the other had left, before turning eyes shining with curiosity in their dark depths to face Achilleas.
The question surprised him, but he emotions were not easily allowed upon his face. In turn, Magnus gave a smooth, easy going smile as he took another sip and placed the bronze chalice on the table's surface before answering. "I've done most of my sightseeing yes. I simply had a few more... friends, I needed to meet, before I returned to Colchis." He paused, and then turned with a raised brow at Achilleas. "But I'm sure you're not merely interested in my travel plans, are you m'lord?"
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He did not intend to stay in the Order House for long. His arrival here had been to meet the crown prince and the rest of the Colchian party which had made the voyage to Taengea just shy over a month ago. Now that they have left just a week or so ago, Magnus had intended to find other quarters as he did not wish to further impose on the royal houses of Taengea. Having intended to find proper rooms to sleep in one of the many inns in Vasiliadon however, proved more difficult then he thought, with the upcoming wedding of two notable members of royal houses. It meant many visitors from provinces all over Taengea were arriving to witness the union of Mikaelidas and Leventi.
It also left Magnus with nowhere to go.
So unwittingly and apologetically, he had to call upon a favor to extend his stay in the Order House. Of course, as a man whose helped just as many as he's harmed, Magnus had many upon which he could call on favors, and his week had been busy afterall. The Master Informer had spent his waking hours more out then in, busy meeting with people be it in brightly lit sitting rooms of noble and royal quarters, or with more questionable figures in shaded alleyways, where coin and silk was exchanged, with the occasional kiss and grope. Ever efficient at his job, he sought to find all the information he could before returning to Colchis to present his findings to his crown prince.
That was all Vangelis had tasked him to do afterall.
What stood out to Magnus most however, was his inability to find the two witnesses that had been called to stand earlier during the Senate meet where the young and accused king had been first called to question. That in itself begged his investigation, but before the dark-haired male could get a move on, he had received a caller who informed him of someone Magnus could not reject. A man who had looked so suspicious of him just a week ago.
What could he ask for now?
Pulling his himation over his soft and slightly rumpled navy blue chiton, Magnus hurried down the steps of the Order House to the receiving chamber, and then stepped in after the commander, smiling as he gave a respectful bow to who was supposedly prince at this point, since his father was Prince Regeant for now. "Lord Achilleas, I must confess, your summons has me curious, I could not resist." Taking the proferred cup of wine and taking a sip (if there was one thing Magnus enjoyed in the wayward and boisterous kingdom, it was their wine), the man took a seat and waited till the other had left, before turning eyes shining with curiosity in their dark depths to face Achilleas.
The question surprised him, but he emotions were not easily allowed upon his face. In turn, Magnus gave a smooth, easy going smile as he took another sip and placed the bronze chalice on the table's surface before answering. "I've done most of my sightseeing yes. I simply had a few more... friends, I needed to meet, before I returned to Colchis." He paused, and then turned with a raised brow at Achilleas. "But I'm sure you're not merely interested in my travel plans, are you m'lord?"
He did not intend to stay in the Order House for long. His arrival here had been to meet the crown prince and the rest of the Colchian party which had made the voyage to Taengea just shy over a month ago. Now that they have left just a week or so ago, Magnus had intended to find other quarters as he did not wish to further impose on the royal houses of Taengea. Having intended to find proper rooms to sleep in one of the many inns in Vasiliadon however, proved more difficult then he thought, with the upcoming wedding of two notable members of royal houses. It meant many visitors from provinces all over Taengea were arriving to witness the union of Mikaelidas and Leventi.
It also left Magnus with nowhere to go.
So unwittingly and apologetically, he had to call upon a favor to extend his stay in the Order House. Of course, as a man whose helped just as many as he's harmed, Magnus had many upon which he could call on favors, and his week had been busy afterall. The Master Informer had spent his waking hours more out then in, busy meeting with people be it in brightly lit sitting rooms of noble and royal quarters, or with more questionable figures in shaded alleyways, where coin and silk was exchanged, with the occasional kiss and grope. Ever efficient at his job, he sought to find all the information he could before returning to Colchis to present his findings to his crown prince.
That was all Vangelis had tasked him to do afterall.
What stood out to Magnus most however, was his inability to find the two witnesses that had been called to stand earlier during the Senate meet where the young and accused king had been first called to question. That in itself begged his investigation, but before the dark-haired male could get a move on, he had received a caller who informed him of someone Magnus could not reject. A man who had looked so suspicious of him just a week ago.
What could he ask for now?
Pulling his himation over his soft and slightly rumpled navy blue chiton, Magnus hurried down the steps of the Order House to the receiving chamber, and then stepped in after the commander, smiling as he gave a respectful bow to who was supposedly prince at this point, since his father was Prince Regeant for now. "Lord Achilleas, I must confess, your summons has me curious, I could not resist." Taking the proferred cup of wine and taking a sip (if there was one thing Magnus enjoyed in the wayward and boisterous kingdom, it was their wine), the man took a seat and waited till the other had left, before turning eyes shining with curiosity in their dark depths to face Achilleas.
The question surprised him, but he emotions were not easily allowed upon his face. In turn, Magnus gave a smooth, easy going smile as he took another sip and placed the bronze chalice on the table's surface before answering. "I've done most of my sightseeing yes. I simply had a few more... friends, I needed to meet, before I returned to Colchis." He paused, and then turned with a raised brow at Achilleas. "But I'm sure you're not merely interested in my travel plans, are you m'lord?"
Achilleas gave the man a thin smile when he admitted his curiosity in having been summoned, the flimisiness of the expression not matching the rather intense look in his eyes. As Magnus sat, the Lord Mikaelidas returned to the klimtos he had risen from earlier, making himself at least try and appear a little more at ease as he folded his large frame into his seat. That the Colchian man deflected his question so easily was unsurprising, and when the line of enquiry was directed back at him, Achilleas swallowed. On one hand, Magnus had given him the perfect in, an easy launching point for the discussion he had brought him here to have. But now, with it looming before him, the son of Irakles found his mouth dry, his throat closed with nerves.
Could he do this?
With a glance toward the closed door, the lord’s face was still as he cleared his throat and then rested his gaze on the face of the other. “ I believe that I may have been hasty in taking my leave of you the other day” Achilleas began. It was almost humorous, for there had been no uncertainty in the lord’s desire to be away from Magnus and his perceptiveness when they had crossed paths in the Agora. And yet here Achilleas’ was, having sought the man out himself. And apparently struggling with whatever it was he wanted to say, if the pause and the working of his jaw was anything to go by. Eventually though, the Baron fixed a very blue, very direct gaze upon his guest and went on.
“I am hoping that we can be of use to one another. You are no doubt asking questions that I find myself interested in the answers to, and perhaps..” Here Achilleas paused again before forcing himself past the words that wanted to stick in his throat "perhaps I can be more helpful in your enquiries”.
He let the words settle a moment, watched the Colchian man closely and tried not to think about the fact that he had just offered to assist in what could potentially be damning to Taengea, to Mikaelidas and to his own father. Realising that he had left his wine across the room, Achilleas pushed to his feet and moved to retrieve it, taking a hefty gulp before he turned back to Magnus, unnerved by the man’s silence.
“You understand I do not make such an offer lightly” he said, gesturing with the hand that held the cup as he had a wont to do when he was worked up about something. “And it is only because of my cousin’s apparent faith in your King that I even consider it. I am no traitor”
Of course, Magnus had suggested no such thing, and Achilleas looked away as he realised he had said too much. It was not this man’s place to judge him, and he would not brook such a thing if it occured. He was a Lord, a Baron and if whispers were to be believed a Prince of Taengea and he was not answerable to any Colchian. His own judgement though was going to be more difficult to reconcile.
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Achilleas gave the man a thin smile when he admitted his curiosity in having been summoned, the flimisiness of the expression not matching the rather intense look in his eyes. As Magnus sat, the Lord Mikaelidas returned to the klimtos he had risen from earlier, making himself at least try and appear a little more at ease as he folded his large frame into his seat. That the Colchian man deflected his question so easily was unsurprising, and when the line of enquiry was directed back at him, Achilleas swallowed. On one hand, Magnus had given him the perfect in, an easy launching point for the discussion he had brought him here to have. But now, with it looming before him, the son of Irakles found his mouth dry, his throat closed with nerves.
Could he do this?
With a glance toward the closed door, the lord’s face was still as he cleared his throat and then rested his gaze on the face of the other. “ I believe that I may have been hasty in taking my leave of you the other day” Achilleas began. It was almost humorous, for there had been no uncertainty in the lord’s desire to be away from Magnus and his perceptiveness when they had crossed paths in the Agora. And yet here Achilleas’ was, having sought the man out himself. And apparently struggling with whatever it was he wanted to say, if the pause and the working of his jaw was anything to go by. Eventually though, the Baron fixed a very blue, very direct gaze upon his guest and went on.
“I am hoping that we can be of use to one another. You are no doubt asking questions that I find myself interested in the answers to, and perhaps..” Here Achilleas paused again before forcing himself past the words that wanted to stick in his throat "perhaps I can be more helpful in your enquiries”.
He let the words settle a moment, watched the Colchian man closely and tried not to think about the fact that he had just offered to assist in what could potentially be damning to Taengea, to Mikaelidas and to his own father. Realising that he had left his wine across the room, Achilleas pushed to his feet and moved to retrieve it, taking a hefty gulp before he turned back to Magnus, unnerved by the man’s silence.
“You understand I do not make such an offer lightly” he said, gesturing with the hand that held the cup as he had a wont to do when he was worked up about something. “And it is only because of my cousin’s apparent faith in your King that I even consider it. I am no traitor”
Of course, Magnus had suggested no such thing, and Achilleas looked away as he realised he had said too much. It was not this man’s place to judge him, and he would not brook such a thing if it occured. He was a Lord, a Baron and if whispers were to be believed a Prince of Taengea and he was not answerable to any Colchian. His own judgement though was going to be more difficult to reconcile.
Achilleas gave the man a thin smile when he admitted his curiosity in having been summoned, the flimisiness of the expression not matching the rather intense look in his eyes. As Magnus sat, the Lord Mikaelidas returned to the klimtos he had risen from earlier, making himself at least try and appear a little more at ease as he folded his large frame into his seat. That the Colchian man deflected his question so easily was unsurprising, and when the line of enquiry was directed back at him, Achilleas swallowed. On one hand, Magnus had given him the perfect in, an easy launching point for the discussion he had brought him here to have. But now, with it looming before him, the son of Irakles found his mouth dry, his throat closed with nerves.
Could he do this?
With a glance toward the closed door, the lord’s face was still as he cleared his throat and then rested his gaze on the face of the other. “ I believe that I may have been hasty in taking my leave of you the other day” Achilleas began. It was almost humorous, for there had been no uncertainty in the lord’s desire to be away from Magnus and his perceptiveness when they had crossed paths in the Agora. And yet here Achilleas’ was, having sought the man out himself. And apparently struggling with whatever it was he wanted to say, if the pause and the working of his jaw was anything to go by. Eventually though, the Baron fixed a very blue, very direct gaze upon his guest and went on.
“I am hoping that we can be of use to one another. You are no doubt asking questions that I find myself interested in the answers to, and perhaps..” Here Achilleas paused again before forcing himself past the words that wanted to stick in his throat "perhaps I can be more helpful in your enquiries”.
He let the words settle a moment, watched the Colchian man closely and tried not to think about the fact that he had just offered to assist in what could potentially be damning to Taengea, to Mikaelidas and to his own father. Realising that he had left his wine across the room, Achilleas pushed to his feet and moved to retrieve it, taking a hefty gulp before he turned back to Magnus, unnerved by the man’s silence.
“You understand I do not make such an offer lightly” he said, gesturing with the hand that held the cup as he had a wont to do when he was worked up about something. “And it is only because of my cousin’s apparent faith in your King that I even consider it. I am no traitor”
Of course, Magnus had suggested no such thing, and Achilleas looked away as he realised he had said too much. It was not this man’s place to judge him, and he would not brook such a thing if it occured. He was a Lord, a Baron and if whispers were to be believed a Prince of Taengea and he was not answerable to any Colchian. His own judgement though was going to be more difficult to reconcile.
He was a man who took in every detail, and it did not miss Magnus's eyes, the way in which the now-crown prince was not only at odds with his own emotions, but a hint of uncertainty lingered beneath the depths of his eyes as well. An uncertainty Magnus intended to exploit as far as he could get today.
Keeping his smile pleasant as he waited for the other's response with a level of patience only a Master Informer could get, the man's dark irises took note of every furtive glance to a closed door, every uncertain look in his eyes. It was how Magnus identified that he was not being lied to, and how much of the other's words he could take to heart.
Raising a brow at the other's first words of admittance, a show really, but he had to show as if he did not expect anything, the man kept silent throughout with a patient smile even while Achilleas struggled to find the right words for the news he bore for Magnus today.
"Of course, my lord." he murmured in return to the man who was only one coronation (of his father) away from stepping into a role that had previously been that of his wayward cousin's. The very cousin he spoke of right now in fact.
Interest flickered in the Master Informer's dark gaze, but the man suppressed a smile, and instead leaned forward in his seat. "Why would I even consider you a traitor, m'lord? I would go to no such conclusion. Your reputation as a skilled general and baron of your province is known by many in Taengea, that I don't think I have basis to doubt your loyalty to your king and country, Lord Achilleas." The man paused, letting a thoughtful light slip into his gaze before he continued. "What matters are the news you bring to me of, my lord?"
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He was a man who took in every detail, and it did not miss Magnus's eyes, the way in which the now-crown prince was not only at odds with his own emotions, but a hint of uncertainty lingered beneath the depths of his eyes as well. An uncertainty Magnus intended to exploit as far as he could get today.
Keeping his smile pleasant as he waited for the other's response with a level of patience only a Master Informer could get, the man's dark irises took note of every furtive glance to a closed door, every uncertain look in his eyes. It was how Magnus identified that he was not being lied to, and how much of the other's words he could take to heart.
Raising a brow at the other's first words of admittance, a show really, but he had to show as if he did not expect anything, the man kept silent throughout with a patient smile even while Achilleas struggled to find the right words for the news he bore for Magnus today.
"Of course, my lord." he murmured in return to the man who was only one coronation (of his father) away from stepping into a role that had previously been that of his wayward cousin's. The very cousin he spoke of right now in fact.
Interest flickered in the Master Informer's dark gaze, but the man suppressed a smile, and instead leaned forward in his seat. "Why would I even consider you a traitor, m'lord? I would go to no such conclusion. Your reputation as a skilled general and baron of your province is known by many in Taengea, that I don't think I have basis to doubt your loyalty to your king and country, Lord Achilleas." The man paused, letting a thoughtful light slip into his gaze before he continued. "What matters are the news you bring to me of, my lord?"
He was a man who took in every detail, and it did not miss Magnus's eyes, the way in which the now-crown prince was not only at odds with his own emotions, but a hint of uncertainty lingered beneath the depths of his eyes as well. An uncertainty Magnus intended to exploit as far as he could get today.
Keeping his smile pleasant as he waited for the other's response with a level of patience only a Master Informer could get, the man's dark irises took note of every furtive glance to a closed door, every uncertain look in his eyes. It was how Magnus identified that he was not being lied to, and how much of the other's words he could take to heart.
Raising a brow at the other's first words of admittance, a show really, but he had to show as if he did not expect anything, the man kept silent throughout with a patient smile even while Achilleas struggled to find the right words for the news he bore for Magnus today.
"Of course, my lord." he murmured in return to the man who was only one coronation (of his father) away from stepping into a role that had previously been that of his wayward cousin's. The very cousin he spoke of right now in fact.
Interest flickered in the Master Informer's dark gaze, but the man suppressed a smile, and instead leaned forward in his seat. "Why would I even consider you a traitor, m'lord? I would go to no such conclusion. Your reputation as a skilled general and baron of your province is known by many in Taengea, that I don't think I have basis to doubt your loyalty to your king and country, Lord Achilleas." The man paused, letting a thoughtful light slip into his gaze before he continued. "What matters are the news you bring to me of, my lord?"
Achilleas did not feel comforted by the placid smile that the other man adopted. He knew too well how effective Magnus was supposed to be at his job for it to put him at ease: here was one who could play games of subterfuge better than he could ever hope to. He envied him that, for he thought his life would be that much easier if he were better at playing the games that politics demanded.
But the Lord Mikaelidas had never been good at that. He did not like deceiving people, and it was his nature to be direct and speak to the heart of a matter, neither traits which lent themselves to the manoeuvrings of court. And as his father had told him more than once. Achilleas was too concerned with the happiness of those around him. He had grown trying to please the man himself, and perhaps it was a thing that seeped into his relationships with others but he wasn’t sure he knew how to be any other way. Nor was he sure that he would want to be, if it meant that he would become hard and distant like the Prince Regent. If indeed,he were still just that…
“Loyal to my King, yes” Achilleas repeated the words, eyeing Magnus of the rim of his cup as he took another swallow of wine. He did not believe for a minute that the master of secrets did not already know what he wanted to speak of, but it appeared the man was playing coy and so the lord had to say it. He lowered the chalice and spoke again. “My King...my cousin.”
There was a meaningful pause. “You do not expect me to believe that you have remained here in Taengea to sightsee and buy trinkets. Just as I do not expect you to believe that I do not have a vested interest in your real reason for being here. So let us speak plainly, Master Magnus. I do not believe my cousin guilty of the charges brought against him. Which has led me to wonder where such a story came from.” He looked almost crestfallen then. “I have heard...there are words that have been said that implicate my father in such a thing. And much as I would prefer not to think it true, it becomes harder each day to think him entirely innocent in all this”
Each word seemed to chip further at Achilleas’ resilience. He had tried to tell himself he could be dispassionate about this, that it was the right thing to do to seek the truth, to seek justice, but as he gave voice to his treacherous thoughts, he realised that perhaps this was something else. Something where doing the ‘right’ thing didn’t feel right at all and left him feeling less somehow. He wished that he had spoken to Emilios perhaps, or even to Theodora to get their counsel on this course of action before forging ahead. But it was too late now to take it back - he had named the doubts that had been plaguing to him, and to a man he knew would not let them lie, if he did not already have the answers hidden behind that passive demeanour.
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Achilleas did not feel comforted by the placid smile that the other man adopted. He knew too well how effective Magnus was supposed to be at his job for it to put him at ease: here was one who could play games of subterfuge better than he could ever hope to. He envied him that, for he thought his life would be that much easier if he were better at playing the games that politics demanded.
But the Lord Mikaelidas had never been good at that. He did not like deceiving people, and it was his nature to be direct and speak to the heart of a matter, neither traits which lent themselves to the manoeuvrings of court. And as his father had told him more than once. Achilleas was too concerned with the happiness of those around him. He had grown trying to please the man himself, and perhaps it was a thing that seeped into his relationships with others but he wasn’t sure he knew how to be any other way. Nor was he sure that he would want to be, if it meant that he would become hard and distant like the Prince Regent. If indeed,he were still just that…
“Loyal to my King, yes” Achilleas repeated the words, eyeing Magnus of the rim of his cup as he took another swallow of wine. He did not believe for a minute that the master of secrets did not already know what he wanted to speak of, but it appeared the man was playing coy and so the lord had to say it. He lowered the chalice and spoke again. “My King...my cousin.”
There was a meaningful pause. “You do not expect me to believe that you have remained here in Taengea to sightsee and buy trinkets. Just as I do not expect you to believe that I do not have a vested interest in your real reason for being here. So let us speak plainly, Master Magnus. I do not believe my cousin guilty of the charges brought against him. Which has led me to wonder where such a story came from.” He looked almost crestfallen then. “I have heard...there are words that have been said that implicate my father in such a thing. And much as I would prefer not to think it true, it becomes harder each day to think him entirely innocent in all this”
Each word seemed to chip further at Achilleas’ resilience. He had tried to tell himself he could be dispassionate about this, that it was the right thing to do to seek the truth, to seek justice, but as he gave voice to his treacherous thoughts, he realised that perhaps this was something else. Something where doing the ‘right’ thing didn’t feel right at all and left him feeling less somehow. He wished that he had spoken to Emilios perhaps, or even to Theodora to get their counsel on this course of action before forging ahead. But it was too late now to take it back - he had named the doubts that had been plaguing to him, and to a man he knew would not let them lie, if he did not already have the answers hidden behind that passive demeanour.
Achilleas did not feel comforted by the placid smile that the other man adopted. He knew too well how effective Magnus was supposed to be at his job for it to put him at ease: here was one who could play games of subterfuge better than he could ever hope to. He envied him that, for he thought his life would be that much easier if he were better at playing the games that politics demanded.
But the Lord Mikaelidas had never been good at that. He did not like deceiving people, and it was his nature to be direct and speak to the heart of a matter, neither traits which lent themselves to the manoeuvrings of court. And as his father had told him more than once. Achilleas was too concerned with the happiness of those around him. He had grown trying to please the man himself, and perhaps it was a thing that seeped into his relationships with others but he wasn’t sure he knew how to be any other way. Nor was he sure that he would want to be, if it meant that he would become hard and distant like the Prince Regent. If indeed,he were still just that…
“Loyal to my King, yes” Achilleas repeated the words, eyeing Magnus of the rim of his cup as he took another swallow of wine. He did not believe for a minute that the master of secrets did not already know what he wanted to speak of, but it appeared the man was playing coy and so the lord had to say it. He lowered the chalice and spoke again. “My King...my cousin.”
There was a meaningful pause. “You do not expect me to believe that you have remained here in Taengea to sightsee and buy trinkets. Just as I do not expect you to believe that I do not have a vested interest in your real reason for being here. So let us speak plainly, Master Magnus. I do not believe my cousin guilty of the charges brought against him. Which has led me to wonder where such a story came from.” He looked almost crestfallen then. “I have heard...there are words that have been said that implicate my father in such a thing. And much as I would prefer not to think it true, it becomes harder each day to think him entirely innocent in all this”
Each word seemed to chip further at Achilleas’ resilience. He had tried to tell himself he could be dispassionate about this, that it was the right thing to do to seek the truth, to seek justice, but as he gave voice to his treacherous thoughts, he realised that perhaps this was something else. Something where doing the ‘right’ thing didn’t feel right at all and left him feeling less somehow. He wished that he had spoken to Emilios perhaps, or even to Theodora to get their counsel on this course of action before forging ahead. But it was too late now to take it back - he had named the doubts that had been plaguing to him, and to a man he knew would not let them lie, if he did not already have the answers hidden behind that passive demeanour.
It was surprising, perhaps even a little refreshing to see someone so ill at ease when it came to playing political games that twisted words and inseminated ideas in one's head. The way the lord Achilleas showed his discomfort even in the slightest of shifts, Magnus picked up at... and while his job was to exploit such discomforts, the Mikaelidas young lord was lucky that Magnus played for his side for now.
So instead, the dark-haired Master Informer merely listened... and then raised his brows when Achilleas so clearly stated that his King would be his cousin. The very Stephanos that had fled from the Taengean soil just a few days ago, right? Magnus was quite certain there was no other King who just so happened to be Achilleas's cousin right at this moment. Was he openly admitting to the fact that Irakles may have a part to play in this then?
"And what words have you heard said, my lord?" To forge ahead and implicate himself suspicious, or indeed, completely disbelieving of the story Irakles had weaved for the general public would be to put himself, and the King and kingdom he had pledged allegience to, in danger. So for that cautious reason, Magnus treaded carefully in his next words, words chosen carefully that would not implicate him nor his King should anyone wish, but was enough to try and draw out further information.
"I am, of course, of no position to enquire as to the inner-happenings of Taengean court, myself being Colchian born myself. But of late, Colchis and Taengea has seen considerably more friendly ties, and I find myself eager to ensure the peace of both kingdoms are kept. I have, as you may very well know my lord, an extensive network of people who keep me informed, but not all of them are privy to the company you keep, Lord Achilleas." Magnus perched his elbows on his knees, leaning forward so they had less chances of being overheard. "So perhaps, a collaboration of information would be beneficial for us both at this point then?"
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It was surprising, perhaps even a little refreshing to see someone so ill at ease when it came to playing political games that twisted words and inseminated ideas in one's head. The way the lord Achilleas showed his discomfort even in the slightest of shifts, Magnus picked up at... and while his job was to exploit such discomforts, the Mikaelidas young lord was lucky that Magnus played for his side for now.
So instead, the dark-haired Master Informer merely listened... and then raised his brows when Achilleas so clearly stated that his King would be his cousin. The very Stephanos that had fled from the Taengean soil just a few days ago, right? Magnus was quite certain there was no other King who just so happened to be Achilleas's cousin right at this moment. Was he openly admitting to the fact that Irakles may have a part to play in this then?
"And what words have you heard said, my lord?" To forge ahead and implicate himself suspicious, or indeed, completely disbelieving of the story Irakles had weaved for the general public would be to put himself, and the King and kingdom he had pledged allegience to, in danger. So for that cautious reason, Magnus treaded carefully in his next words, words chosen carefully that would not implicate him nor his King should anyone wish, but was enough to try and draw out further information.
"I am, of course, of no position to enquire as to the inner-happenings of Taengean court, myself being Colchian born myself. But of late, Colchis and Taengea has seen considerably more friendly ties, and I find myself eager to ensure the peace of both kingdoms are kept. I have, as you may very well know my lord, an extensive network of people who keep me informed, but not all of them are privy to the company you keep, Lord Achilleas." Magnus perched his elbows on his knees, leaning forward so they had less chances of being overheard. "So perhaps, a collaboration of information would be beneficial for us both at this point then?"
It was surprising, perhaps even a little refreshing to see someone so ill at ease when it came to playing political games that twisted words and inseminated ideas in one's head. The way the lord Achilleas showed his discomfort even in the slightest of shifts, Magnus picked up at... and while his job was to exploit such discomforts, the Mikaelidas young lord was lucky that Magnus played for his side for now.
So instead, the dark-haired Master Informer merely listened... and then raised his brows when Achilleas so clearly stated that his King would be his cousin. The very Stephanos that had fled from the Taengean soil just a few days ago, right? Magnus was quite certain there was no other King who just so happened to be Achilleas's cousin right at this moment. Was he openly admitting to the fact that Irakles may have a part to play in this then?
"And what words have you heard said, my lord?" To forge ahead and implicate himself suspicious, or indeed, completely disbelieving of the story Irakles had weaved for the general public would be to put himself, and the King and kingdom he had pledged allegience to, in danger. So for that cautious reason, Magnus treaded carefully in his next words, words chosen carefully that would not implicate him nor his King should anyone wish, but was enough to try and draw out further information.
"I am, of course, of no position to enquire as to the inner-happenings of Taengean court, myself being Colchian born myself. But of late, Colchis and Taengea has seen considerably more friendly ties, and I find myself eager to ensure the peace of both kingdoms are kept. I have, as you may very well know my lord, an extensive network of people who keep me informed, but not all of them are privy to the company you keep, Lord Achilleas." Magnus perched his elbows on his knees, leaning forward so they had less chances of being overheard. "So perhaps, a collaboration of information would be beneficial for us both at this point then?"
What words indeed. Achilleas half-turned away from the Colchian as he considered all the fragments of information that had led him here to this point. Stephanos’ suspicious, almost hostile attitude towards his father, even as the man ostensibly appeared to be helping the young regent. Theodora’s unreserved upset at the plight of her sister and the fears for her safety and that of the unborn child. Xene and her discrediting of the story told to the senate. All of these things had eroded his confidence in what had been presented as fact.
But more than that, and hard to ignore for one who usually set store in logic and reason, was the feeling that none of it made sense.
The Lord Mikaelidas glances sideways at Magnus, gave a small shake of his head “I have no facts I am afraid. More a tapestry of tellings that form a picture out of line with that peddled to the senate and the Taengean public and that surely deserves further scrutiny.”
He looked hard at Magnus then “And as you say it, a collaborative approach to such information might be beneficial, but this ‘company I keep’ means I must tread very carefully. I do not know how far this web has spread, and if it is indeed somehow my father pulling the strings then I cannot be seen to be asking the wrong questions, you understand?”
He did not think his precarious situation should really need explaining to the man before him, but Achilleas thought it best to be direct. He was risking much in even having this conversation, let alone any further discussions. But he had taken this step, and so the lord squashed the feelings of unease, schooled his thoughts into approaching it as he would another situation, one further removed from himself. The clear conveyance of intelligence was vital to the underpinning of any campaign, he knew this. And so he just had to set aside his own investment and speak what he knew.
This more structured thought process calmed the lord somewhat and he returned to his seat, mirrored the secret keeper’s body language as he began to tell what he knew.
“ You know the charges brought against my cousin, the King?” He began. He could not imagine any of that would be news to the man but it never served well to assume. “ Aside from my own understanding of Stephanos’ character which precludes such behaviour, I have heard further accounts that throw doubt upon the accusations we heard.”
Achilleas revealed what the Princess Xene has told him, hoping that betraying her confidence in this way- for the greater good- would not come back to spite him. That she had been into the Crown Prince’s rooms and cleaned them herself, had found no blood-soaked cloth as had been presented to the Senate meet as evidence. He explained that the maid who had given testimony was unknown to his cousin, who surely would have recognised the girl who lived and worked in the palace daily. Nor had she been seen since.
He spoke of the picture that Theodora had painted, of Olympia fearing they would never make it to trial, of being so desperate that Theo had asked for his help. Of his less than successful attempts to speak to his father and the strained relations since his choice to abstain in the senate vote. And when he was finished, Achilleas sat back, raised his eyebrows and looked expectantly at the man before him. “I anticipate that was not all news to you, Master Magnus, but I am curious as to what your sources have told you thus far?”
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What words indeed. Achilleas half-turned away from the Colchian as he considered all the fragments of information that had led him here to this point. Stephanos’ suspicious, almost hostile attitude towards his father, even as the man ostensibly appeared to be helping the young regent. Theodora’s unreserved upset at the plight of her sister and the fears for her safety and that of the unborn child. Xene and her discrediting of the story told to the senate. All of these things had eroded his confidence in what had been presented as fact.
But more than that, and hard to ignore for one who usually set store in logic and reason, was the feeling that none of it made sense.
The Lord Mikaelidas glances sideways at Magnus, gave a small shake of his head “I have no facts I am afraid. More a tapestry of tellings that form a picture out of line with that peddled to the senate and the Taengean public and that surely deserves further scrutiny.”
He looked hard at Magnus then “And as you say it, a collaborative approach to such information might be beneficial, but this ‘company I keep’ means I must tread very carefully. I do not know how far this web has spread, and if it is indeed somehow my father pulling the strings then I cannot be seen to be asking the wrong questions, you understand?”
He did not think his precarious situation should really need explaining to the man before him, but Achilleas thought it best to be direct. He was risking much in even having this conversation, let alone any further discussions. But he had taken this step, and so the lord squashed the feelings of unease, schooled his thoughts into approaching it as he would another situation, one further removed from himself. The clear conveyance of intelligence was vital to the underpinning of any campaign, he knew this. And so he just had to set aside his own investment and speak what he knew.
This more structured thought process calmed the lord somewhat and he returned to his seat, mirrored the secret keeper’s body language as he began to tell what he knew.
“ You know the charges brought against my cousin, the King?” He began. He could not imagine any of that would be news to the man but it never served well to assume. “ Aside from my own understanding of Stephanos’ character which precludes such behaviour, I have heard further accounts that throw doubt upon the accusations we heard.”
Achilleas revealed what the Princess Xene has told him, hoping that betraying her confidence in this way- for the greater good- would not come back to spite him. That she had been into the Crown Prince’s rooms and cleaned them herself, had found no blood-soaked cloth as had been presented to the Senate meet as evidence. He explained that the maid who had given testimony was unknown to his cousin, who surely would have recognised the girl who lived and worked in the palace daily. Nor had she been seen since.
He spoke of the picture that Theodora had painted, of Olympia fearing they would never make it to trial, of being so desperate that Theo had asked for his help. Of his less than successful attempts to speak to his father and the strained relations since his choice to abstain in the senate vote. And when he was finished, Achilleas sat back, raised his eyebrows and looked expectantly at the man before him. “I anticipate that was not all news to you, Master Magnus, but I am curious as to what your sources have told you thus far?”
What words indeed. Achilleas half-turned away from the Colchian as he considered all the fragments of information that had led him here to this point. Stephanos’ suspicious, almost hostile attitude towards his father, even as the man ostensibly appeared to be helping the young regent. Theodora’s unreserved upset at the plight of her sister and the fears for her safety and that of the unborn child. Xene and her discrediting of the story told to the senate. All of these things had eroded his confidence in what had been presented as fact.
But more than that, and hard to ignore for one who usually set store in logic and reason, was the feeling that none of it made sense.
The Lord Mikaelidas glances sideways at Magnus, gave a small shake of his head “I have no facts I am afraid. More a tapestry of tellings that form a picture out of line with that peddled to the senate and the Taengean public and that surely deserves further scrutiny.”
He looked hard at Magnus then “And as you say it, a collaborative approach to such information might be beneficial, but this ‘company I keep’ means I must tread very carefully. I do not know how far this web has spread, and if it is indeed somehow my father pulling the strings then I cannot be seen to be asking the wrong questions, you understand?”
He did not think his precarious situation should really need explaining to the man before him, but Achilleas thought it best to be direct. He was risking much in even having this conversation, let alone any further discussions. But he had taken this step, and so the lord squashed the feelings of unease, schooled his thoughts into approaching it as he would another situation, one further removed from himself. The clear conveyance of intelligence was vital to the underpinning of any campaign, he knew this. And so he just had to set aside his own investment and speak what he knew.
This more structured thought process calmed the lord somewhat and he returned to his seat, mirrored the secret keeper’s body language as he began to tell what he knew.
“ You know the charges brought against my cousin, the King?” He began. He could not imagine any of that would be news to the man but it never served well to assume. “ Aside from my own understanding of Stephanos’ character which precludes such behaviour, I have heard further accounts that throw doubt upon the accusations we heard.”
Achilleas revealed what the Princess Xene has told him, hoping that betraying her confidence in this way- for the greater good- would not come back to spite him. That she had been into the Crown Prince’s rooms and cleaned them herself, had found no blood-soaked cloth as had been presented to the Senate meet as evidence. He explained that the maid who had given testimony was unknown to his cousin, who surely would have recognised the girl who lived and worked in the palace daily. Nor had she been seen since.
He spoke of the picture that Theodora had painted, of Olympia fearing they would never make it to trial, of being so desperate that Theo had asked for his help. Of his less than successful attempts to speak to his father and the strained relations since his choice to abstain in the senate vote. And when he was finished, Achilleas sat back, raised his eyebrows and looked expectantly at the man before him. “I anticipate that was not all news to you, Master Magnus, but I am curious as to what your sources have told you thus far?”
While Magnus had collected as much information as he could from word of mouth and hearsay, there was much he could learn still, especially when the Mikaelidas lord was likely much more privy to the happenings within the palace walls and his own cousin's behavior to his own father. Achilleas was, therefore, simply another person Magnus had to meet to finish the collection of all the information he needed to present to his crown prince once he had conclusive evidence of their suspicions.
Nodding encouragingly when Achilleas admitted to not having facts, but merely a salad of tellings. To Magnus, that was not a problem. It was not Achilleas's job, but Magnus's, to form a picture out of the many words that flitted about in regards to this matter afterall. Magnus was nothing if not a weaver of pictures from the colors contributed by many. That Achilleas could not be included as part of the contributors to his information was not news to Magnus. Traitorous sons were viewed in an even worst light then traitorous uncles, and that in itself would kill the name of Mikaelidas, a fact Magnus was quite sure the crown prince of Colchis would not wish, since the runaway King was a friend of sorts to himself.
Listening intently the whole time, the only outward reaction Magnus gave was a furrow of his brows, especially when it was revealed that the princess herself went into her brother's room. The question of why would a princess be cleaning her brother's rooms, since they would no doubt have servants in excess to do such things did cross Magnus's mind, but deciding to allow that matter to slide since it wasn't his jurisdiction afterall, he merely stowed such information away in his mind.
That the evidence presented to the Senate had likely been falsified was no news to Magnus, for he suspected as much himself when he questioned the servants who served the ones who was in charge of storing the evidence. Said servants had mentioned that the material supposedly bloodsoaked seemed unlike any they had ever seen worn by the former crown prince or Stephanos himself, and that in itself brought many questions to the Master Informer's mind.
The queen herself asking for help was no news to Magnus, for he heard so himself from Vangelis. Achilleas's relation with his father however, that was something that made him sit forward. Personal relations between father and son was a tidbit of information he could never glean clearly, for servant's hearsay could only weigh in how much when it came to facts and evidence in litigation cases. To hear it from the young lord's mouth himself however, made it a more solid proof of the character of Prince Irakles - questionable in both morality and motive.
"That the fabric that was supposedly blood soaked was unlike any the former crown prince Zacharias nor King Stephanos had ever worn." he started softly, at Achilleas's query. Picking up the chalice of wine that sat untouched, he took a sip, a look of thoughtfulness on his face as he leaned back again. "But also of how often Prince Regeant Irakles visits Lord Fotios, although much of it has been passed off as visits for wedding arrangements?" Flicking his eyes to Achilleas to check, he waited for an answer before replying.
"I have met with one of his witnesses he presented at the Senate meet... yet try as I may, I am unable to find the other two. Yet other's told me of seeing a hooded figure with Stephanos's signet ring upon his finger. Would you happen to know if... your cousin parts with his signet ring at all?"
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While Magnus had collected as much information as he could from word of mouth and hearsay, there was much he could learn still, especially when the Mikaelidas lord was likely much more privy to the happenings within the palace walls and his own cousin's behavior to his own father. Achilleas was, therefore, simply another person Magnus had to meet to finish the collection of all the information he needed to present to his crown prince once he had conclusive evidence of their suspicions.
Nodding encouragingly when Achilleas admitted to not having facts, but merely a salad of tellings. To Magnus, that was not a problem. It was not Achilleas's job, but Magnus's, to form a picture out of the many words that flitted about in regards to this matter afterall. Magnus was nothing if not a weaver of pictures from the colors contributed by many. That Achilleas could not be included as part of the contributors to his information was not news to Magnus. Traitorous sons were viewed in an even worst light then traitorous uncles, and that in itself would kill the name of Mikaelidas, a fact Magnus was quite sure the crown prince of Colchis would not wish, since the runaway King was a friend of sorts to himself.
Listening intently the whole time, the only outward reaction Magnus gave was a furrow of his brows, especially when it was revealed that the princess herself went into her brother's room. The question of why would a princess be cleaning her brother's rooms, since they would no doubt have servants in excess to do such things did cross Magnus's mind, but deciding to allow that matter to slide since it wasn't his jurisdiction afterall, he merely stowed such information away in his mind.
That the evidence presented to the Senate had likely been falsified was no news to Magnus, for he suspected as much himself when he questioned the servants who served the ones who was in charge of storing the evidence. Said servants had mentioned that the material supposedly bloodsoaked seemed unlike any they had ever seen worn by the former crown prince or Stephanos himself, and that in itself brought many questions to the Master Informer's mind.
The queen herself asking for help was no news to Magnus, for he heard so himself from Vangelis. Achilleas's relation with his father however, that was something that made him sit forward. Personal relations between father and son was a tidbit of information he could never glean clearly, for servant's hearsay could only weigh in how much when it came to facts and evidence in litigation cases. To hear it from the young lord's mouth himself however, made it a more solid proof of the character of Prince Irakles - questionable in both morality and motive.
"That the fabric that was supposedly blood soaked was unlike any the former crown prince Zacharias nor King Stephanos had ever worn." he started softly, at Achilleas's query. Picking up the chalice of wine that sat untouched, he took a sip, a look of thoughtfulness on his face as he leaned back again. "But also of how often Prince Regeant Irakles visits Lord Fotios, although much of it has been passed off as visits for wedding arrangements?" Flicking his eyes to Achilleas to check, he waited for an answer before replying.
"I have met with one of his witnesses he presented at the Senate meet... yet try as I may, I am unable to find the other two. Yet other's told me of seeing a hooded figure with Stephanos's signet ring upon his finger. Would you happen to know if... your cousin parts with his signet ring at all?"
While Magnus had collected as much information as he could from word of mouth and hearsay, there was much he could learn still, especially when the Mikaelidas lord was likely much more privy to the happenings within the palace walls and his own cousin's behavior to his own father. Achilleas was, therefore, simply another person Magnus had to meet to finish the collection of all the information he needed to present to his crown prince once he had conclusive evidence of their suspicions.
Nodding encouragingly when Achilleas admitted to not having facts, but merely a salad of tellings. To Magnus, that was not a problem. It was not Achilleas's job, but Magnus's, to form a picture out of the many words that flitted about in regards to this matter afterall. Magnus was nothing if not a weaver of pictures from the colors contributed by many. That Achilleas could not be included as part of the contributors to his information was not news to Magnus. Traitorous sons were viewed in an even worst light then traitorous uncles, and that in itself would kill the name of Mikaelidas, a fact Magnus was quite sure the crown prince of Colchis would not wish, since the runaway King was a friend of sorts to himself.
Listening intently the whole time, the only outward reaction Magnus gave was a furrow of his brows, especially when it was revealed that the princess herself went into her brother's room. The question of why would a princess be cleaning her brother's rooms, since they would no doubt have servants in excess to do such things did cross Magnus's mind, but deciding to allow that matter to slide since it wasn't his jurisdiction afterall, he merely stowed such information away in his mind.
That the evidence presented to the Senate had likely been falsified was no news to Magnus, for he suspected as much himself when he questioned the servants who served the ones who was in charge of storing the evidence. Said servants had mentioned that the material supposedly bloodsoaked seemed unlike any they had ever seen worn by the former crown prince or Stephanos himself, and that in itself brought many questions to the Master Informer's mind.
The queen herself asking for help was no news to Magnus, for he heard so himself from Vangelis. Achilleas's relation with his father however, that was something that made him sit forward. Personal relations between father and son was a tidbit of information he could never glean clearly, for servant's hearsay could only weigh in how much when it came to facts and evidence in litigation cases. To hear it from the young lord's mouth himself however, made it a more solid proof of the character of Prince Irakles - questionable in both morality and motive.
"That the fabric that was supposedly blood soaked was unlike any the former crown prince Zacharias nor King Stephanos had ever worn." he started softly, at Achilleas's query. Picking up the chalice of wine that sat untouched, he took a sip, a look of thoughtfulness on his face as he leaned back again. "But also of how often Prince Regeant Irakles visits Lord Fotios, although much of it has been passed off as visits for wedding arrangements?" Flicking his eyes to Achilleas to check, he waited for an answer before replying.
"I have met with one of his witnesses he presented at the Senate meet... yet try as I may, I am unable to find the other two. Yet other's told me of seeing a hooded figure with Stephanos's signet ring upon his finger. Would you happen to know if... your cousin parts with his signet ring at all?"
There was no relief to be found in telling of his suspicions. Not like the satisfaction in knowing that he had delivered an accurate accounting of events that would allow battle strategy to be built around it, nor the personal relief in having unburdened oneself of troubling thoughts. Rather, Achilleas felt rather sick as he finished speaking, looking at the unruffled demeanour of the man before him, a man who served a kingdom other than his own. Other than Taengea, whom the Lord had been raised to place above all others.
But that is why he reminded himself. Death before dishonour. And what was more dishonourable than even the idea that his father had lied and manipulated the deaths of his own brother and nephew to fulfil his personal desire for control?
It was a flimsy balm to the knowledge that he had been forced into the role of betrayer, and though Magnus had spoke careful words denying that he was such a thing, Achilleas knew them for what they were. He grit his teeth, fingers tightening around the chalice that he held until his knuckles turned white.
Magnus’ voice, coming it as did to speak on what he had learnt, proved a welcome distraction from the lord’s self recrimination and Achilleas gave a nod of acknowledgement, unsurprised at the inconsistencies. When Fotios’ name was mentioned, he looked sharply at Magnus, for the involvement of his father’s close friend had become another part of the puzzle he had been considering.
“ The Lord Leventi and my father have long been confidantes.” He said in response “ And whilst I am sure there have been some conversations around my upcoming marriage, I hardly see it as something they would need to invest a lot of time in. After all, my father made it clear to me that is the Lady Evelli and my Mother who should be attending to such matters”.
Pausing a moment, Achilleas considered whether or not to volunteer what he said next “ I had thought...hoped perhaps, that my father had been misled regarding the information he presented about Stephanos. But such an idea does not hold up to scrutiny, for I doubt anyone could get such falsity past both my father and the Lord Leventi.”
Another sip of wine as his mouth dried again with each word he fed to the Colchian man, and the master infirmer’s last question was answered with a conviction that could not be doubted.
“I have never once seen him without it” he said, absently fingering his own signet ring. “ So no, I cannot imagine him voluntarily parting with it. Either those witnesses mistook what they saw or it was not genuine...how accurate can a glimpse of small piece of jewellery be considered anyway? And at a distance too?”
The more he thought on it the less likely it seemed m, and Achilleas pressed the fingers of his free hand to his brow as if to stave off a headache, the enormity of what this all meant making him feel almost dizzy. He sounded a little strained when he spoke again.
“ What then, do you intend to do next, Master Magnus? What exactly are you putting together for your King?”
He wanted some assurance that the risk he had taken in telling all that he had was not to be for naught. And whilst Achilleas had his suspicions as to where his cousin had fled to, there had been no confirmation and nor would he expect one from the man before him. What he had to worry about was what was unfolding in Taengea, here and now. Things that might already be too late to undo. And somewhere amongst all that, he was to be married and continue to adopt some semblance of being the obedient son his father expected. It was no small task, and he felt weary just thinking of it. “ Have you spoken to all you wish to?” The Lord asked finally of the man, wondering what the next steps where in his side of this.
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There was no relief to be found in telling of his suspicions. Not like the satisfaction in knowing that he had delivered an accurate accounting of events that would allow battle strategy to be built around it, nor the personal relief in having unburdened oneself of troubling thoughts. Rather, Achilleas felt rather sick as he finished speaking, looking at the unruffled demeanour of the man before him, a man who served a kingdom other than his own. Other than Taengea, whom the Lord had been raised to place above all others.
But that is why he reminded himself. Death before dishonour. And what was more dishonourable than even the idea that his father had lied and manipulated the deaths of his own brother and nephew to fulfil his personal desire for control?
It was a flimsy balm to the knowledge that he had been forced into the role of betrayer, and though Magnus had spoke careful words denying that he was such a thing, Achilleas knew them for what they were. He grit his teeth, fingers tightening around the chalice that he held until his knuckles turned white.
Magnus’ voice, coming it as did to speak on what he had learnt, proved a welcome distraction from the lord’s self recrimination and Achilleas gave a nod of acknowledgement, unsurprised at the inconsistencies. When Fotios’ name was mentioned, he looked sharply at Magnus, for the involvement of his father’s close friend had become another part of the puzzle he had been considering.
“ The Lord Leventi and my father have long been confidantes.” He said in response “ And whilst I am sure there have been some conversations around my upcoming marriage, I hardly see it as something they would need to invest a lot of time in. After all, my father made it clear to me that is the Lady Evelli and my Mother who should be attending to such matters”.
Pausing a moment, Achilleas considered whether or not to volunteer what he said next “ I had thought...hoped perhaps, that my father had been misled regarding the information he presented about Stephanos. But such an idea does not hold up to scrutiny, for I doubt anyone could get such falsity past both my father and the Lord Leventi.”
Another sip of wine as his mouth dried again with each word he fed to the Colchian man, and the master infirmer’s last question was answered with a conviction that could not be doubted.
“I have never once seen him without it” he said, absently fingering his own signet ring. “ So no, I cannot imagine him voluntarily parting with it. Either those witnesses mistook what they saw or it was not genuine...how accurate can a glimpse of small piece of jewellery be considered anyway? And at a distance too?”
The more he thought on it the less likely it seemed m, and Achilleas pressed the fingers of his free hand to his brow as if to stave off a headache, the enormity of what this all meant making him feel almost dizzy. He sounded a little strained when he spoke again.
“ What then, do you intend to do next, Master Magnus? What exactly are you putting together for your King?”
He wanted some assurance that the risk he had taken in telling all that he had was not to be for naught. And whilst Achilleas had his suspicions as to where his cousin had fled to, there had been no confirmation and nor would he expect one from the man before him. What he had to worry about was what was unfolding in Taengea, here and now. Things that might already be too late to undo. And somewhere amongst all that, he was to be married and continue to adopt some semblance of being the obedient son his father expected. It was no small task, and he felt weary just thinking of it. “ Have you spoken to all you wish to?” The Lord asked finally of the man, wondering what the next steps where in his side of this.
There was no relief to be found in telling of his suspicions. Not like the satisfaction in knowing that he had delivered an accurate accounting of events that would allow battle strategy to be built around it, nor the personal relief in having unburdened oneself of troubling thoughts. Rather, Achilleas felt rather sick as he finished speaking, looking at the unruffled demeanour of the man before him, a man who served a kingdom other than his own. Other than Taengea, whom the Lord had been raised to place above all others.
But that is why he reminded himself. Death before dishonour. And what was more dishonourable than even the idea that his father had lied and manipulated the deaths of his own brother and nephew to fulfil his personal desire for control?
It was a flimsy balm to the knowledge that he had been forced into the role of betrayer, and though Magnus had spoke careful words denying that he was such a thing, Achilleas knew them for what they were. He grit his teeth, fingers tightening around the chalice that he held until his knuckles turned white.
Magnus’ voice, coming it as did to speak on what he had learnt, proved a welcome distraction from the lord’s self recrimination and Achilleas gave a nod of acknowledgement, unsurprised at the inconsistencies. When Fotios’ name was mentioned, he looked sharply at Magnus, for the involvement of his father’s close friend had become another part of the puzzle he had been considering.
“ The Lord Leventi and my father have long been confidantes.” He said in response “ And whilst I am sure there have been some conversations around my upcoming marriage, I hardly see it as something they would need to invest a lot of time in. After all, my father made it clear to me that is the Lady Evelli and my Mother who should be attending to such matters”.
Pausing a moment, Achilleas considered whether or not to volunteer what he said next “ I had thought...hoped perhaps, that my father had been misled regarding the information he presented about Stephanos. But such an idea does not hold up to scrutiny, for I doubt anyone could get such falsity past both my father and the Lord Leventi.”
Another sip of wine as his mouth dried again with each word he fed to the Colchian man, and the master infirmer’s last question was answered with a conviction that could not be doubted.
“I have never once seen him without it” he said, absently fingering his own signet ring. “ So no, I cannot imagine him voluntarily parting with it. Either those witnesses mistook what they saw or it was not genuine...how accurate can a glimpse of small piece of jewellery be considered anyway? And at a distance too?”
The more he thought on it the less likely it seemed m, and Achilleas pressed the fingers of his free hand to his brow as if to stave off a headache, the enormity of what this all meant making him feel almost dizzy. He sounded a little strained when he spoke again.
“ What then, do you intend to do next, Master Magnus? What exactly are you putting together for your King?”
He wanted some assurance that the risk he had taken in telling all that he had was not to be for naught. And whilst Achilleas had his suspicions as to where his cousin had fled to, there had been no confirmation and nor would he expect one from the man before him. What he had to worry about was what was unfolding in Taengea, here and now. Things that might already be too late to undo. And somewhere amongst all that, he was to be married and continue to adopt some semblance of being the obedient son his father expected. It was no small task, and he felt weary just thinking of it. “ Have you spoken to all you wish to?” The Lord asked finally of the man, wondering what the next steps where in his side of this.
He considered the lord's words, for while he knew marriages to be an affair that usually concerned the womenfolk more so then it did the men, Magnus also knew that the marriages of wealthy and powerful families were not simply an affair of the heart. In fact, they were rarely so. Such unions were usually used to join two powerful families together, or some benefit could be found for either party for them to have come to an agreement that their families could be eternally bounded together by the joining of two of their children. That Lords Irakles and Fotios would not need to discuss seemed improbable, but Achilleas was not wrong in wondering the amount of time spent together would be overly much.
If one could peer into the mind of one's Master Informer right now, they would see the cogs of Magnus's brain turning as he pieced together the various tidbit's of information he was offered now, like forming a large puzzle, whose final picture he wasn't even certain of. It was no wonder Leto teased him of growing wrinkles at a young age.
"Do not let unbased assumptions cloud your decisions, Lord Achilleas. It is assumptions that blind people sometimes." He murmured in response. While Achilleas may doubt, he did not. Magnus only drew concluions based on hard and cold fact, and not of assumptions and judgements based on one's word of mouth. It was what made Magnus's words strong against argument in court, and not many could refute his words when they are backed up by cold, hard evidence.
The words offered by Achilleas was clear to Magnus, that the young Mikaelidas lord did not believe his cousin capable of such crime. More then like, he was eager to believe such because of a close bond he shared with his cousin, a bond Magnus took into consideration as he considered the brevity of his words. "Be that as it may, their words could not be refuted, and the signet ring of a royal house is not to be made by any other within the kingdom. I could not refute its genuinty unless I get to see said ring myself and show them to the witnesses who spoke to Prince Irakles."
Watching the stressed out, obviously torn motions of the lord, in a way Magnus pitied him. It would not be easy, especially with his words, for the Colchian could see how much it costed Achilleas to come and possibly speak words against the man who had raised him all his life.While Magnus commended his efforts to save his cousin, or try to at least, he did not know how far he could go in meddling with the affairs of another kingdom. "I will report merely what I find, the truth behind the words of the witnesses both called to stand and word of mouth, to my crown prince. What happens next, and what the decision is, lies with Prince Vangelis alone. However, my evidence has never been wrong, and I do not intend for it to begin now."
Tilting his head back, the man finished the rest of his wine, and replaced the bronze chalice on the table, before replying the rest of the man's hurried questions. "Not as of yet. I have days to go yet, and it would likely be after you have wed before I return to Colchis." The words were said with a bitter taste in his mouth, for Magnus wished to return to his unfinished business in the rocky kingdom he called home, but the amount of investigations needed meant at least two weeks within this kingdom before he could leave, especially when he was limited by nationality on who would speak to him. To find out information regarding political affairs in a kingdom not his own, would need Magnus to function on a whole new different level.
"And you, my lord? You... seem to be at crossroads for now. What do you intend to do next?"
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He considered the lord's words, for while he knew marriages to be an affair that usually concerned the womenfolk more so then it did the men, Magnus also knew that the marriages of wealthy and powerful families were not simply an affair of the heart. In fact, they were rarely so. Such unions were usually used to join two powerful families together, or some benefit could be found for either party for them to have come to an agreement that their families could be eternally bounded together by the joining of two of their children. That Lords Irakles and Fotios would not need to discuss seemed improbable, but Achilleas was not wrong in wondering the amount of time spent together would be overly much.
If one could peer into the mind of one's Master Informer right now, they would see the cogs of Magnus's brain turning as he pieced together the various tidbit's of information he was offered now, like forming a large puzzle, whose final picture he wasn't even certain of. It was no wonder Leto teased him of growing wrinkles at a young age.
"Do not let unbased assumptions cloud your decisions, Lord Achilleas. It is assumptions that blind people sometimes." He murmured in response. While Achilleas may doubt, he did not. Magnus only drew concluions based on hard and cold fact, and not of assumptions and judgements based on one's word of mouth. It was what made Magnus's words strong against argument in court, and not many could refute his words when they are backed up by cold, hard evidence.
The words offered by Achilleas was clear to Magnus, that the young Mikaelidas lord did not believe his cousin capable of such crime. More then like, he was eager to believe such because of a close bond he shared with his cousin, a bond Magnus took into consideration as he considered the brevity of his words. "Be that as it may, their words could not be refuted, and the signet ring of a royal house is not to be made by any other within the kingdom. I could not refute its genuinty unless I get to see said ring myself and show them to the witnesses who spoke to Prince Irakles."
Watching the stressed out, obviously torn motions of the lord, in a way Magnus pitied him. It would not be easy, especially with his words, for the Colchian could see how much it costed Achilleas to come and possibly speak words against the man who had raised him all his life.While Magnus commended his efforts to save his cousin, or try to at least, he did not know how far he could go in meddling with the affairs of another kingdom. "I will report merely what I find, the truth behind the words of the witnesses both called to stand and word of mouth, to my crown prince. What happens next, and what the decision is, lies with Prince Vangelis alone. However, my evidence has never been wrong, and I do not intend for it to begin now."
Tilting his head back, the man finished the rest of his wine, and replaced the bronze chalice on the table, before replying the rest of the man's hurried questions. "Not as of yet. I have days to go yet, and it would likely be after you have wed before I return to Colchis." The words were said with a bitter taste in his mouth, for Magnus wished to return to his unfinished business in the rocky kingdom he called home, but the amount of investigations needed meant at least two weeks within this kingdom before he could leave, especially when he was limited by nationality on who would speak to him. To find out information regarding political affairs in a kingdom not his own, would need Magnus to function on a whole new different level.
"And you, my lord? You... seem to be at crossroads for now. What do you intend to do next?"
He considered the lord's words, for while he knew marriages to be an affair that usually concerned the womenfolk more so then it did the men, Magnus also knew that the marriages of wealthy and powerful families were not simply an affair of the heart. In fact, they were rarely so. Such unions were usually used to join two powerful families together, or some benefit could be found for either party for them to have come to an agreement that their families could be eternally bounded together by the joining of two of their children. That Lords Irakles and Fotios would not need to discuss seemed improbable, but Achilleas was not wrong in wondering the amount of time spent together would be overly much.
If one could peer into the mind of one's Master Informer right now, they would see the cogs of Magnus's brain turning as he pieced together the various tidbit's of information he was offered now, like forming a large puzzle, whose final picture he wasn't even certain of. It was no wonder Leto teased him of growing wrinkles at a young age.
"Do not let unbased assumptions cloud your decisions, Lord Achilleas. It is assumptions that blind people sometimes." He murmured in response. While Achilleas may doubt, he did not. Magnus only drew concluions based on hard and cold fact, and not of assumptions and judgements based on one's word of mouth. It was what made Magnus's words strong against argument in court, and not many could refute his words when they are backed up by cold, hard evidence.
The words offered by Achilleas was clear to Magnus, that the young Mikaelidas lord did not believe his cousin capable of such crime. More then like, he was eager to believe such because of a close bond he shared with his cousin, a bond Magnus took into consideration as he considered the brevity of his words. "Be that as it may, their words could not be refuted, and the signet ring of a royal house is not to be made by any other within the kingdom. I could not refute its genuinty unless I get to see said ring myself and show them to the witnesses who spoke to Prince Irakles."
Watching the stressed out, obviously torn motions of the lord, in a way Magnus pitied him. It would not be easy, especially with his words, for the Colchian could see how much it costed Achilleas to come and possibly speak words against the man who had raised him all his life.While Magnus commended his efforts to save his cousin, or try to at least, he did not know how far he could go in meddling with the affairs of another kingdom. "I will report merely what I find, the truth behind the words of the witnesses both called to stand and word of mouth, to my crown prince. What happens next, and what the decision is, lies with Prince Vangelis alone. However, my evidence has never been wrong, and I do not intend for it to begin now."
Tilting his head back, the man finished the rest of his wine, and replaced the bronze chalice on the table, before replying the rest of the man's hurried questions. "Not as of yet. I have days to go yet, and it would likely be after you have wed before I return to Colchis." The words were said with a bitter taste in his mouth, for Magnus wished to return to his unfinished business in the rocky kingdom he called home, but the amount of investigations needed meant at least two weeks within this kingdom before he could leave, especially when he was limited by nationality on who would speak to him. To find out information regarding political affairs in a kingdom not his own, would need Magnus to function on a whole new different level.
"And you, my lord? You... seem to be at crossroads for now. What do you intend to do next?"
The master informer’s words of warning settled upon the Lord Mikaelidas with more weight than perhaps he had intended. Achilleas looked at him warily, wondering what unbased assumptions the man referenced. Wasn’t most of what led him here assumption? He did not have evidence to give grounding to the suspicions that had left him so on edge. But surely at some point, one had to conclude that there was no smoke without fire? Or perhaps the man meant he had been blind in wanting to believe the best of his father, in not wanting to see what everything pointed towards.
Resisting the urge to bury his head in hands, the lord instead replied “Perhaps you are right. I do not pretend to be infallible Master Magnus, and it is not easy to be objective about things that are so close to my heart.”
Magnus was not wrong in his judgement that Achilleas felt torn. His loyalty to his father frayed under their disagreements and when the man’s actions seemed set so unfavourably against Achilleas’ cousin and friend. And when Magnus pointed out - quite rationally- that Achilleas’ conviction regarding the ring meant nothing unless it could be proved that the accounts of the witnesses were false, the lord sighed in frustration.
“There must be proof somewhere” he said. “Noone can be so thorough as to leave no trail. Not in something that would involve the cooperation of so many others”
He wished that he had been able to speak to Stephanos himself, that he had not ignored the growing tension between the King and his own Father. When he thought back on it now, he could see how Steph had danced around the subject when he had summoned him before the attack on the Creed. Achilleas had tried to be diplomatic, had steered the topic of conversation away and his cousin had let it drop. He should have listened then, perhaps.
The idea that somehow the fate of Taengea rested in the hands of the Colchian prince did not sit well with Achilleas. Whatever respect he had for the man, Taengea should not need saving from itself by its neighbours. The problem was, Achilleas did not know who he could trust, so trying to do anything from within - even asking the questions he wanted to ask - was foolhardy if it painted him as disloyal to his father, who now wore the crown. Indeed, the lord had burnt his fingers already in such a manner, and he knew he had some ground to make up if he wanted to gain the man’s trust again.
The question was if he could do it. Achilleas had never been good at hiding his thoughts from his father, the man could read him like a book most of the time. It became something of a crippling flaw when he was nursing such suspicions. Achilleas could only hope that the wedding and the subsequent time in Euttica would give him enough time to get a better hold on his feelings.
Time that the man before him would spend gathering what further information he could, and the lord Mikaelidas gazed consideringly at him a moment, before venturing forth a suggestion. “If it would help..you are most welcome to attend the celebrations. I do not think it would seem odd. We have been introduced. You are a visiting dignitary. And those that are left of the Taengean nobility will be in attendance” He shrugged, thinking it might at least allow the man access to those he might not get in front of otherwise.
Achilleas’ gaze shifted away from Magnus when the Colchian asked his plans, and the lord gave a sigh.. “What can I do?” he said, looking back to the man. “As I told you, I have nothing definite and I am not so stupid as make accusations againt my father with nothing to substantiate them. I will wait to hear from Stephanos. Get married. And try and smile in the meantime”
And that would be the most trying part. Whatever escape Achilleas had hoped to find in his marriage to Theodora seemed doubtful now. Even without the chaos surrounding the throne, he could not help but think that they would hear more from the Egyptians than they might wish to.
In short everything was a mess and he was unfortunately stuck in the middle of it.
Achilleas pressed his lips together in resignation, he had done what he could, for now at least. “I thank you for your time today anyway. And I hope that you can take word to your prince and my King, that there are those here who do not swallow all that has been presented as truth.”
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The master informer’s words of warning settled upon the Lord Mikaelidas with more weight than perhaps he had intended. Achilleas looked at him warily, wondering what unbased assumptions the man referenced. Wasn’t most of what led him here assumption? He did not have evidence to give grounding to the suspicions that had left him so on edge. But surely at some point, one had to conclude that there was no smoke without fire? Or perhaps the man meant he had been blind in wanting to believe the best of his father, in not wanting to see what everything pointed towards.
Resisting the urge to bury his head in hands, the lord instead replied “Perhaps you are right. I do not pretend to be infallible Master Magnus, and it is not easy to be objective about things that are so close to my heart.”
Magnus was not wrong in his judgement that Achilleas felt torn. His loyalty to his father frayed under their disagreements and when the man’s actions seemed set so unfavourably against Achilleas’ cousin and friend. And when Magnus pointed out - quite rationally- that Achilleas’ conviction regarding the ring meant nothing unless it could be proved that the accounts of the witnesses were false, the lord sighed in frustration.
“There must be proof somewhere” he said. “Noone can be so thorough as to leave no trail. Not in something that would involve the cooperation of so many others”
He wished that he had been able to speak to Stephanos himself, that he had not ignored the growing tension between the King and his own Father. When he thought back on it now, he could see how Steph had danced around the subject when he had summoned him before the attack on the Creed. Achilleas had tried to be diplomatic, had steered the topic of conversation away and his cousin had let it drop. He should have listened then, perhaps.
The idea that somehow the fate of Taengea rested in the hands of the Colchian prince did not sit well with Achilleas. Whatever respect he had for the man, Taengea should not need saving from itself by its neighbours. The problem was, Achilleas did not know who he could trust, so trying to do anything from within - even asking the questions he wanted to ask - was foolhardy if it painted him as disloyal to his father, who now wore the crown. Indeed, the lord had burnt his fingers already in such a manner, and he knew he had some ground to make up if he wanted to gain the man’s trust again.
The question was if he could do it. Achilleas had never been good at hiding his thoughts from his father, the man could read him like a book most of the time. It became something of a crippling flaw when he was nursing such suspicions. Achilleas could only hope that the wedding and the subsequent time in Euttica would give him enough time to get a better hold on his feelings.
Time that the man before him would spend gathering what further information he could, and the lord Mikaelidas gazed consideringly at him a moment, before venturing forth a suggestion. “If it would help..you are most welcome to attend the celebrations. I do not think it would seem odd. We have been introduced. You are a visiting dignitary. And those that are left of the Taengean nobility will be in attendance” He shrugged, thinking it might at least allow the man access to those he might not get in front of otherwise.
Achilleas’ gaze shifted away from Magnus when the Colchian asked his plans, and the lord gave a sigh.. “What can I do?” he said, looking back to the man. “As I told you, I have nothing definite and I am not so stupid as make accusations againt my father with nothing to substantiate them. I will wait to hear from Stephanos. Get married. And try and smile in the meantime”
And that would be the most trying part. Whatever escape Achilleas had hoped to find in his marriage to Theodora seemed doubtful now. Even without the chaos surrounding the throne, he could not help but think that they would hear more from the Egyptians than they might wish to.
In short everything was a mess and he was unfortunately stuck in the middle of it.
Achilleas pressed his lips together in resignation, he had done what he could, for now at least. “I thank you for your time today anyway. And I hope that you can take word to your prince and my King, that there are those here who do not swallow all that has been presented as truth.”
The master informer’s words of warning settled upon the Lord Mikaelidas with more weight than perhaps he had intended. Achilleas looked at him warily, wondering what unbased assumptions the man referenced. Wasn’t most of what led him here assumption? He did not have evidence to give grounding to the suspicions that had left him so on edge. But surely at some point, one had to conclude that there was no smoke without fire? Or perhaps the man meant he had been blind in wanting to believe the best of his father, in not wanting to see what everything pointed towards.
Resisting the urge to bury his head in hands, the lord instead replied “Perhaps you are right. I do not pretend to be infallible Master Magnus, and it is not easy to be objective about things that are so close to my heart.”
Magnus was not wrong in his judgement that Achilleas felt torn. His loyalty to his father frayed under their disagreements and when the man’s actions seemed set so unfavourably against Achilleas’ cousin and friend. And when Magnus pointed out - quite rationally- that Achilleas’ conviction regarding the ring meant nothing unless it could be proved that the accounts of the witnesses were false, the lord sighed in frustration.
“There must be proof somewhere” he said. “Noone can be so thorough as to leave no trail. Not in something that would involve the cooperation of so many others”
He wished that he had been able to speak to Stephanos himself, that he had not ignored the growing tension between the King and his own Father. When he thought back on it now, he could see how Steph had danced around the subject when he had summoned him before the attack on the Creed. Achilleas had tried to be diplomatic, had steered the topic of conversation away and his cousin had let it drop. He should have listened then, perhaps.
The idea that somehow the fate of Taengea rested in the hands of the Colchian prince did not sit well with Achilleas. Whatever respect he had for the man, Taengea should not need saving from itself by its neighbours. The problem was, Achilleas did not know who he could trust, so trying to do anything from within - even asking the questions he wanted to ask - was foolhardy if it painted him as disloyal to his father, who now wore the crown. Indeed, the lord had burnt his fingers already in such a manner, and he knew he had some ground to make up if he wanted to gain the man’s trust again.
The question was if he could do it. Achilleas had never been good at hiding his thoughts from his father, the man could read him like a book most of the time. It became something of a crippling flaw when he was nursing such suspicions. Achilleas could only hope that the wedding and the subsequent time in Euttica would give him enough time to get a better hold on his feelings.
Time that the man before him would spend gathering what further information he could, and the lord Mikaelidas gazed consideringly at him a moment, before venturing forth a suggestion. “If it would help..you are most welcome to attend the celebrations. I do not think it would seem odd. We have been introduced. You are a visiting dignitary. And those that are left of the Taengean nobility will be in attendance” He shrugged, thinking it might at least allow the man access to those he might not get in front of otherwise.
Achilleas’ gaze shifted away from Magnus when the Colchian asked his plans, and the lord gave a sigh.. “What can I do?” he said, looking back to the man. “As I told you, I have nothing definite and I am not so stupid as make accusations againt my father with nothing to substantiate them. I will wait to hear from Stephanos. Get married. And try and smile in the meantime”
And that would be the most trying part. Whatever escape Achilleas had hoped to find in his marriage to Theodora seemed doubtful now. Even without the chaos surrounding the throne, he could not help but think that they would hear more from the Egyptians than they might wish to.
In short everything was a mess and he was unfortunately stuck in the middle of it.
Achilleas pressed his lips together in resignation, he had done what he could, for now at least. “I thank you for your time today anyway. And I hope that you can take word to your prince and my King, that there are those here who do not swallow all that has been presented as truth.”
To a certain extent, the men and women of nobility were innocent, at least to the mind of Magnus. He has, whilst working in the underbelly and less savory characters of society, seen many things that made him question the values he was brought up with. For him however, his parents grounded him well that despite learning of the darker, unscrupulous parts of the world, Magnus would only shift his linear way of thought without letting it alter his personality or the way he treated others. The same could not be said for everyone of course, and most of all, Magnus could see how Lord Achilleas struggled to still want to be on the right side of things, especially when both sides held someone he had known all his life.
It was a empathetic smile that Magnus flashed the man, as he tried his best to be understanding. To say he understood it all would be a falsehood, for whilst he had seen many such cases, to have it happen on such a degree was a first even for the Master Informer. Such cases required careful handling of the information and any such proof he could find, for the man in question was no random tavern boy or hooligan.
"I will try my best, my lord. But I am in no position to make promises." Afterall, at the end of the day, his loyalties lie with Colchis and his royal family. Should his interception in the matter result in endangering the peace Taengea and Colchis currently had, he would be left with no choice, and the decision would be quite clear for him.
The invitation to attend the man's wedding celebrations came as a partial surprise. Of course, the Mikaelidas lord would be polite, but for Magnus, attending such a function would only backfire should Vangelis not be around to give him the excuse to attend. Amongst the Taengean nobility, Magnus did not hold such sway yet as to be able to explain his attendance to what would be a royal wedding. "Thank you for your invitation, my lord, but my attendance would only bring questions. However..." he trailed off, a thoughtful look entering his eyes as he finished, "It would benefit if I could know the location and time of your joyous occasion? I may not be there, but I definitely will need to know certain information that could be best found when the members of nobility exchange words." Gossip, for lack of a better word, gave the best information.
Nodding cordially to Achilleas he ended his spheal, he straightened up, downing the remainder of his drink before standing up. "That is a good plan for now, Lord Achilleas. Do not jeopardize your postion and that of your future wife, until more things come to light. I will do my best to get such a message across the seas. I shall be here till after your wedding, my lord, so should you wish to contact me, please feel free to send a messenger." With another bow at his waist to the man, he gave a respectful look before turning to exit the Order House, a whole day's work ahead of him.
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To a certain extent, the men and women of nobility were innocent, at least to the mind of Magnus. He has, whilst working in the underbelly and less savory characters of society, seen many things that made him question the values he was brought up with. For him however, his parents grounded him well that despite learning of the darker, unscrupulous parts of the world, Magnus would only shift his linear way of thought without letting it alter his personality or the way he treated others. The same could not be said for everyone of course, and most of all, Magnus could see how Lord Achilleas struggled to still want to be on the right side of things, especially when both sides held someone he had known all his life.
It was a empathetic smile that Magnus flashed the man, as he tried his best to be understanding. To say he understood it all would be a falsehood, for whilst he had seen many such cases, to have it happen on such a degree was a first even for the Master Informer. Such cases required careful handling of the information and any such proof he could find, for the man in question was no random tavern boy or hooligan.
"I will try my best, my lord. But I am in no position to make promises." Afterall, at the end of the day, his loyalties lie with Colchis and his royal family. Should his interception in the matter result in endangering the peace Taengea and Colchis currently had, he would be left with no choice, and the decision would be quite clear for him.
The invitation to attend the man's wedding celebrations came as a partial surprise. Of course, the Mikaelidas lord would be polite, but for Magnus, attending such a function would only backfire should Vangelis not be around to give him the excuse to attend. Amongst the Taengean nobility, Magnus did not hold such sway yet as to be able to explain his attendance to what would be a royal wedding. "Thank you for your invitation, my lord, but my attendance would only bring questions. However..." he trailed off, a thoughtful look entering his eyes as he finished, "It would benefit if I could know the location and time of your joyous occasion? I may not be there, but I definitely will need to know certain information that could be best found when the members of nobility exchange words." Gossip, for lack of a better word, gave the best information.
Nodding cordially to Achilleas he ended his spheal, he straightened up, downing the remainder of his drink before standing up. "That is a good plan for now, Lord Achilleas. Do not jeopardize your postion and that of your future wife, until more things come to light. I will do my best to get such a message across the seas. I shall be here till after your wedding, my lord, so should you wish to contact me, please feel free to send a messenger." With another bow at his waist to the man, he gave a respectful look before turning to exit the Order House, a whole day's work ahead of him.
To a certain extent, the men and women of nobility were innocent, at least to the mind of Magnus. He has, whilst working in the underbelly and less savory characters of society, seen many things that made him question the values he was brought up with. For him however, his parents grounded him well that despite learning of the darker, unscrupulous parts of the world, Magnus would only shift his linear way of thought without letting it alter his personality or the way he treated others. The same could not be said for everyone of course, and most of all, Magnus could see how Lord Achilleas struggled to still want to be on the right side of things, especially when both sides held someone he had known all his life.
It was a empathetic smile that Magnus flashed the man, as he tried his best to be understanding. To say he understood it all would be a falsehood, for whilst he had seen many such cases, to have it happen on such a degree was a first even for the Master Informer. Such cases required careful handling of the information and any such proof he could find, for the man in question was no random tavern boy or hooligan.
"I will try my best, my lord. But I am in no position to make promises." Afterall, at the end of the day, his loyalties lie with Colchis and his royal family. Should his interception in the matter result in endangering the peace Taengea and Colchis currently had, he would be left with no choice, and the decision would be quite clear for him.
The invitation to attend the man's wedding celebrations came as a partial surprise. Of course, the Mikaelidas lord would be polite, but for Magnus, attending such a function would only backfire should Vangelis not be around to give him the excuse to attend. Amongst the Taengean nobility, Magnus did not hold such sway yet as to be able to explain his attendance to what would be a royal wedding. "Thank you for your invitation, my lord, but my attendance would only bring questions. However..." he trailed off, a thoughtful look entering his eyes as he finished, "It would benefit if I could know the location and time of your joyous occasion? I may not be there, but I definitely will need to know certain information that could be best found when the members of nobility exchange words." Gossip, for lack of a better word, gave the best information.
Nodding cordially to Achilleas he ended his spheal, he straightened up, downing the remainder of his drink before standing up. "That is a good plan for now, Lord Achilleas. Do not jeopardize your postion and that of your future wife, until more things come to light. I will do my best to get such a message across the seas. I shall be here till after your wedding, my lord, so should you wish to contact me, please feel free to send a messenger." With another bow at his waist to the man, he gave a respectful look before turning to exit the Order House, a whole day's work ahead of him.