While construction in the Grey Marsh Territory was in full swing, a conspiracy targeting it was quietly brewing in the distant capital of the Duchy.
This was a secret chamber, closed to the public. Only candlelight cast wavering shadows upon the thick stone walls.
The air was filled with a dry scent—a mixture of old parchment and aromatic balm.
"Archbishop Edmond."
A man clad in a magnificent Mage's robe sat in the shadows. A double-headed eagle—the emblem of the northern Empire—was embroidered on his robe in silver thread, signifying his status as a special envoy.
The red-robed Archbishop before him was unhurriedly trimming a candlewick with a small pair of silver shears.
The flame flickered gently, growing slightly brighter.
"Lord Victor, I doubt you've graced my humble prayer room just to discuss the scriptures," Edmond said without looking up.
"Of course not," Victor's voice was steady. "I'm here for a rising star: Baron Velin Klein."
