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The trip to the estate was thankfully silent, if rather bouncy. Teeth gritting as the battered and beaten Magpie closed their eyes and leaned back. Healers had been waiting for them outside the Palace of Ice. Spells worked to ease the aches, quickly setting the rib back into place, but Magpie would be feeling this for a couple days at least.

Lido met them at the front door, "Oh my me, where have you lot been... oh you look rather worse for wear!" The tiefling giving them a once over.

"Perhaps you can point us towards the nearest bathhouse?" Magpie offered, pulling the coat a little tighter. It felt weird to have Graf's outfit on without the wraps. Might as well be half-naked.

"Oh of course, Just... "he trailed off as a guard handed him a packet. "Oh, what is this?" Opening a letter, "Graffion... Estate... oh... oh!" He blinked, "It seems we'll have to do some redecorating around here. I have a stipend for improvements as you settle into your new estate, Lord Graffion." The tiefling was already pondering, "Dinner first. Yes, Dinner." Muttering under his breath, he hurried inside.

Magpie followed on his heels, heading for the sitting room. The couch was looking rather comfortable. A fact the dragonborn confirmed by dropped onto it with a groan. Which turned out to be a very bad idea. Newly healed ribs screaming in agony as they were jarred. Breath coming in short gasps as Magpie rolled onto their back. Staring at the ceiling a moment until the pain faded. With great care, Magpie lifted a hand and reaching out.

Qistling popped into existence on Magpie's palm. The raven took one look at the dragonborn, huffed, and fluttered down to a table just out of reach, radiating sulk. Ideas coming at the dragonborn hard and fast. How could Magpie have ignored him in the dungeon, and more than that, how dare Magpie drop him! He spent the last few hours falling in that pocket dimension!

"Oh come on now, you had fun didn't you." A huff and head turn, that was beside the point. Magpie sighed and closed their eyes. "I'm sorry. You know better than any what I was going through at the time." Resting a hand on their head, the dragonborn just focused on breathing and trying to will the ache away. "Doesn't excuse it though."

Nails tapped on wood as the raven familiar hopped over. Wings fluttering before Qistling landed squarely on Magpie's stomach with a caw. Without even looking, a hand fell to rest on the fey creature's back. Simple emotions of love and support radiating from the familiar as it hunched down and accepted the gentle rubs. Soft croaks coming from it as the silent question was posed. Magpie responding in turn with silent thanks before filing the familiar in. Memories passing faster than words. Giving the familiar all he needed to know in an instant.

"Sir Graffion," An eye cracked open to look up at the speaker. Lido hovering nearby, "I was so caught up in the news earlier that I neglected to notice this." The tiefling steward held out a package with the Lunar Protectorate's seal on it and his name written in fine script on the wrapping. "It was delivered alongside the other papers from the keep." He beamed, "I'm just so thrilled to see the Estate in someone's hands. Poor girl had been neglected for some time, but don't you worry. We're going to make her a beautiful home before long."

He wasn't going to go away until Magpie took the package was he? Stifling a groan, the dragonborn reached out to take it, "Thank you, Lido, and I can't wait to see how the estate shapes up either." A weary smile, "I'm sure she will be glorious." The package wasn't large, no more than a foot square. "While I will apologize for laying on the couch in these clothes, I am not sorry for laying on the couch."

Lido's eyes flashed over the dragonborn's clothing. The fine garment had seen its share of wear and tear. Patched and cleaned countless times before. It sported new slashes along the belly, exposing the dragonborn's dark scales underneath. "It's quiet alright, Sire, it is your couch after all. If you'd like to change, I could have those sent off to see what could be salvaged."

Magpie waved a hand, "In a bit, I don't think I've got the willpower to move." Qistling let out a caw. "Nor will Qistling let me move." Little croak as a talon found a good spot.

A smile crossed the tiefling's lips, "Of course, Sire. Wouldn't want to disturb him now would we? I should get back to supper though before Sir Grig tries to get into the kitchen and just eat what's there." He offered a quick bow and left. Now there's a thought. Could they offer titles to their friends? Nothing serious, but something fun wouldn't hurt would it?

Qistling cawed and pecked at the package. "What?" Another caw and peck, pulling at it. "Fine," Magpie heaved a sigh and sat up. The raven rolling off their stomach and into the lap. Laying there briefly before hopping to a knee, staring at the package.

It seemed simple enough, cloth bound with string. Inside was a matching pair of sealed envelopes and a strange object. It looked like a slate of some sort, made of wood and metal. One side held several gems. The other looking as it if were made to handle a single sheet of parchment, a clip at the top edge bearing an empty socket the same size as the gems.

Curious. Maybe the letter would explain it.

Fingers ran over the hard seal set on the envelope. Was this the official Lunar Protectorate seal or was it Karuth's personal one? Have to ask about it later so they could tell state business from a friendly letter. Humming, Magpie opened it up and... of course it was encoded. Although Karuth had been helpful and included the cipher.

"Alright," Magpie stood with a groan. "Guess I need to do some work." Tucking everything under an arm, the dragonborn crossed the room. Qistling taking flight to help, or at least act like he was helping, as they entered an office just off the sitting room.

Qistling landed on the desk, tip-tapping his way around the surface. Magpie tossed the string onto his head, wanting to distract the familiar so some work could be done. Luckily Karuth had given enough space to decode the letter. Pen scratching on the parchment as they set to work. Wondering if perhaps they should show Jynx this codex. The wizard had a shockingly sharp memory and it had come in handy more times than they dared count. It was a perhaps for certain. But for now, on to the letter.

Your Majesty, Enclosed is a codex for deciphering this and any coded message sent to you, as well as the relevant documents and seals marking you as Archduke Graffion DeLuc of the Province of Amatta, now for your position as Lord Magpie, Agent Regal.

"Good thing he told me about the codex, or else I'd have never been able to read this letter." Qistling squawked in frustration, apparently on the losing end of the string war.

The letter continued, To the rest of the world outside your companions, my personal guard, and ourselves, I shall continue to serve as Lord Steward, outranking you in public in until such a time as you decide to shed the Agent Regal tittle and take the throne in official capacity.

It surprised Magpie how verbose Karuth was even in writing. One wondered if the older dragonborn was a fan of theater, or if diplomacy had lead him to being very precise in his language. Reading over the letter, it seemed to be fairly straight forward. Karuth would remain the official face, but Magpie had authority to be kept abreast of royal matters, with the power to veto as well. That was a strange though, knowing that sort of power was at their fingertips. A shiver raced down their spine at the thought of just how many people their choices would hold sway over.

Ah what else? Karuth was the direct contact and only held sway over the group as a whole if there was something important to the kingdom as a whole. Likely meaning that Magpie would have to solo from time to time perhaps. Strangely, that made the dragonborn's gut churn with a bit of nerves. Why though? Aside from Martigan, Magpie had depended on themselves more often than not. Didn't change that the thought of going without their friends made Magpie feel strangely nervous.

Focusing attention back on the letter, Magpie continued to translate it. Odd are good that any task that I may send your way will involve some manner of... so on and so forth. Took him quiet a lot to say that Magpie would have to do what they've been doing for their entire life. Followed up by an expression of how important it was to destroy the documents once Magpie was done with them.

Be the first time of having to sit and translate letters only to destroy them. At least there were a dozen easy ways to handle that. Especially with Corrine having her issues with fire. Ask her to hold onto a letter and it'd likely go up in flame before long. Although... Magpie stopped a moment and thought about it. Pickle had been helping Corrine some, but they would need to find this Circle of the Sun. Until then, maybe some advice Martigan had given them long ago could help her.

Returning to the letter, they uncovered more things in store for them. Mention of a stipend for the party as a whole wasn't terribly surprising, but the amount was shocking. Living on the edge had taught a certain frugality. Biggest expenditure in a long time had been renting the Estate and that had paid off. It was strange, having a home for once in a lifetime.

Following that was a list of contacts spread across the continents. Searching the desk found a paper to note them down on. Writing as if they were people Graffion had accounts with, which since most were bankers would check out readily enough. Why wouldn't a noble, a legit noble now, keep a list of banks and bankers they had accounts with? Been in plenty of keeps where the lords and ladies kept huge ledgers with everything on hand. Had proven useful on many occasions.

Next in the letter was information about the slate. Karuth called it a sending tablet, describing how to use it and the function of the gems. That... would prove beyond useful. Would have to keep an eye on it as well, so it couldn't eve be far off. Magpie wondered if the gems on the back would flash to show if there was a message or if each would have to be placed in order to check.

It did provide something else very useful though. The magic used in the tablet itself was based off magic that the Grand Caravan used. Apparently the bulletin boards they had in each city used the technology. One side of each board made to be updated from somewhere. The other side made to be updated locally. Very interesting to say the least.

Brow arched at the mention of the Khazur Dahava and an account there. It had been a while since any of them had visited the casino. Lips curled in a smile at the thought of returning with a full title and a very sizable account. Maybe after Narzire was dealt with, the party could visit there to unwind. A few hundred gold each would be nice and give each of them plenty to do. Earn more money, lose it all, get a nice room for the night, whatever.

Chuckling, Magpie shook their head and read over the rest. Some well-wishes and statements of understanding the position that Magpie had been placed in.

Yeah.

Going from not knowing anything about their family to being King in a matter of hours. Magpie would have to ask Karuth about the former rulers. Resting chin on fingers, the dragonborn watched Qistling as the raven hopped about with the string around his feet. Could it be possible that they were somehow related to the royalty here? They doubted it was their mother, why would she be constantly on the move with a child then? And in another plane? But their father... Magpie looked at their fingers and the dark scales there.

Who was their father? That was a bigger question than they'd ever considered before. He had always just been a vague concept, still was. Just always figured it was some adventurer or someone she had run into at a tavern. If Magpie hadn't become so fastidious about cleaning up after the act, then it would be likely that Graffion would have had some children running around. Thankfully magic could help with ensuring that didn't happen.

P.S. - It would be another considerable expense, but if you wish to do something to alter your chimeric condition, there are options available to discuss.

Qistling jumped as a wave of shock his him, the raven spinning around with a caw. Magpie dropped their pen and just stared at that line. Their... condition? What condition? Karuth had to be talking about their physical oddities. Was it that obvious? Magpie's body did sit somewhere between a male and a female, but they had seen plenty of men with more effeminate builds and women with more masculine. Even with the breast bands off, was there that much of a tell?

Thinking back, Asher had seemed somewhat cautious, but no. That was the jackal being beyond courteous. Magpie smiled at the memory of Graf having to take control of the tryst. Not that Asher had complained. Rather, the demi-god had seemed rather pleased by the end of it.

Now Magpie found their mind roaming back through the years. Of all those that had seen them naked or had lain with them, only Narzire had discovered that secret. Did Karuth know something more than he was letting on? Magpie shrugged off the shock and started to work, letting their mind roam and try to put together what they had.

It wasn't enough. There were far too many unknowns floating around. A lot of it was simply the kingdom itself. But a fair bit was Magpie. As it turns out, not knowing a lot about yourself could come back to bite your tail. Who knew?

Sighing quietly, Magpie picked up their pen again and got a sheet of parchment.

Lord Steward,

Many thanks for the codex and documents. Hard to believe that after such a length of time I have papers declaring Graffion to actually be nobility. All without a trip to the library and bribes as well. Somewhat refreshing.

Why don't we start things at the beginning here. As you said, in public I am Graffion and you are Lord Steward Karuth. I am hoping that in private and in these missives we could be more familiar. To be honest, being called Your Majesty is still a little odd to hear and for it not to be some part of The Game. Magpie could be a simple enough name to address by, especially since the number of people who know that name are limited only to your guard and my companions. Outside of that, the only others who know that name were my mother and the kenku who raised me. Both deceased.

It might be some time before I find myself ready to take the crown. Strange as it might sound, this is not something I want to simply fake my way through. I would appreciate being kept somewhat abreast of some of the actions. If possible, perhaps even listening in on occasion? I am certain that between the two of us, we could come up with some excuse for why there's a stranger at meetings, even if it's simply some new scribe taking notes. Until recently, I have grown lax in the guise of Graffion and the mask grew paper thin, much to my embarrassment.

Understood, we have had encounters with some persons who kept their letters around a little too long. There is much I need to fill you in regarding that. Perhaps in person rather than in letter, for security's sake.

Admittedly, I had wondered on funds but felt it might be uncouth to inquire about them so quickly. That is the excuse I am using and will stick to it. It had nothing at all to do with being beaten down physically and emotionally. I assure you that the stipend will go quite the distance. If my upbringing has taught me anything, it is how to make a little go a long way. Never know when that next payday is coming.

Although it does bring up a question for where we might find chalks and inks infused with precious gems. Our wizard had made mention of needing such things, and has pondered about the existence of Teleportation Circles within Moonsteppe. We have made note of some in other areas and it would certainly make it easier to handle some of the other tasks we have on our plate as well as return here should our services be needed by the crown. Besides, we seem to have ill luck when it comes to traveling via airship.

I had wondered how the Caravan got such news around so fast, doubtless this will be greatly useful in the future.

A signature will be enclosed with this letter, unless Graffion is needed to be there in person to provide the signature. Although it does leave me with the question of what the Khazur Dahava is. Loath as I am to admit, there has been little time for touring Moonsteppe.

I thank you for your confidence in our abilities. We are a rather unusual gathering, a bunch of broken people slowly but surely being pieced together. Which does remind me, there are a number of questions I would have. Had been making a list of them, but your letter has answered a number of them already. The answers which are least urgent would be concerning the previous heirs, the signet ring, and if you have any information on druidic circles which have to do with the sun.

One of the more pressing matters is one I would like to discuss in person. Namely this condition you mention. I have a feeling we need to sit down so I can fill you in on a great many things about your future monarch.

Graffion DeLuc, Archduke of Amatta.

P.S. Apologies for the dwarf. We have yet to find a way to control her.

While the ink was drying, Magpie took a moment to dig through the desk, finding some sealing wax shoved into one of the drawers. Good, just what was needed. A whisper of magic lit a candle. The sealing wax melting readily before doing its job. Magpie's signet ring doing its job for once.

Question then became how to dispose of the other letter? Fire was a good option, but looking around there wasn't a good place to set the burning message. Lido would probably throw a fit if the desk was singed. Could always hand it off to Corrine, let her burn it up. Or shred the message and let Qistling take flight, scattering it across parts of the city. Or...

Magic rolled from their fingers. A brush against the candle snuffing the flame. Then a touch to the paper wiping the ink from it. Smiling at their on cleverness, Magpie inspected the parchment to ensure it had been cleaned properly. It was clean, but even then the faint lines of ink could be made out. With a sigh, the paper was put to flame and dropped onto a shallow stone dish.

Sinking back into the chair, the dragonborn heaved a sigh. Today couldn't be over fast enough, if you asked them. For the first time in a very long time, they really just wanted to sink into a hot bath with something hard to drink. Alcohol was always something to be taken in moderation, always careful not to let the disguise slip. That morning the mask of Graffion DeLuc had been shattered and the person underneath bared, so there was little worry there so long as the drinking was among friends.

The letter had to be delivered though, and Magpie didn't want to start using the tablet just yet. No, if they sat in the Estate too long they might start to sulk. Better to get up and do something, maybe take another walk around the city itself and see the sights. That could be nice. Maybe talk to some of the guards and locals about a good place to unwind? Somewhere where the group as a whole could settle to treat themselves after everything was said and done?

Honestly, it was too many questions to keep track of and there would probably be a thousand more before long. Should get moving before things reached that point. Magpie sighed and stood, sliding the letter into a pocket before making their way to the barracks-style bed chamber they shared with the others. Bedrooms. Bedrooms were on the top of the agenda.

Quick change out of the worn out clothing and into the finer Moonsteppe garb they'd purchased back in Brasshold. The shirt and jacket heavy enough that they'd be fine without their chest wraps. Quick jaunt to the Keep, quick one back. Only out for a bit unless something caught their eye. Maybe stop off at the market? See if there was some ready made food, drinks, something. Jynx had hit their liquor supply pretty hard a couple day... no that was last night. Was it? Magpie stopped to think. Yeah, it had only been a night.

Had to get out of here before the list became too long. Pulling coat tighter around their frame, Magpie put their head down and headed for the door.

Nearly running into Pickle in the process. Pulling back, the dragonborn began to mutter an apology before stopping. It was strange. Looking at the monk again, they were reminded of the Trials and how she'd approached to say hello, as if seeing them for the first time. All the looks she'd been giving in the catacombs. Magpie now knew that she'd been wanting to talk, to draw out the person behind the veil of lies. Welcome them to the party. Welcome them as a friend? Had to find out.

"Hey," Magpie started, Pickle looking up at the taller dragonborn. "I'm about to go visit Karuth, I've got some questions for him. Not planning on being there much more than an hour." More questions than Magpie wanted to drop in one go. Had a feeling there was much that the two dragonborn had to share, "I have a feeling... I know that afterwards I'm going to need a drink." It was always easier to handle this as Graf, but Magpie wasn't ready to revisit the noble yet. Time to learn what Magpie would do. "So would you want to meet up at the keep and see what booze is about? I haven't had more than a glass at any given time for over a decade and we haven't really explored the town." Should the others be invited too? "I'd invite the others along, but I saw Corrine and Amber outside with Floof. Rajan and Grig are..." Qistling supplied the answer, "Heading for the training grounds. Jynx is likely in the library. So it'd just be the two of us." Not that Magpie objected. They wanted to thank the kobold for everything.

Pickle blinked at Magpie, impressed at how she was able to keep the surprise off her face. The gawk turning effortlessly into a big, eager smile. "And if their stock is lacking, I got reserves." That was scary, since Magpie knew that the monk had some truly powerful stuff she personally made. And then there was that 'beer of annihilation' that Corrine had been brewing. She shuffled back a step to give the courtyard door a sideways look, "Corrine and Amber I'd... better check on them." Both knew there were few things as dangerous as leaving those two unsupervised. "I'll check on Corrine and meet you there."

Magpie nodded, covering the nervous fidget by adjusting their clothes. "I'll make sure to ask the guards to keep an eye on them so nothing is blown up." Note to self, give poor Yoren and Eskel hazard pay for this. Head shook slightly before offering a smile, "We could ask the others if you want, but they're not as easy on the eyes." A playful wink, the slightest bit of Graf showing through there.

The thought of leaving Corrine and Amber alone had distracted Pickle somewhat. The kobold launching herself across the room in a single bound. Pausing with her fingers on the door handle, "And I know for a fact our friends can be quite badly behaved when they've had a few. I promise I'll behave." She paused for a moment, troubled look crossing her face. "Jynx... I hope he thinks he can come to us for help." She shook her head, tossing her purple hair. Turning, she offered Magpie a large, genuine smile as the latch clicked open, a swirl of fridge Moonsteppe air blasting across the room. "It seemed to work out for you, I'll meet you there, Magpie."

Now that was strange, having someone calling out that name in such a friendly tone. No one other than Martigan or Mother had done that. But no one else had known that name before either.

"And it almost took too long. If you guys hadn't..." Magpie sighed, smiled, and returned the wave, "See you there, Pickle." A shiver raced down the newly minted monarch's spine. Really hoped that those two wouldn't get up to anything untoward like bringing a house plant to life or driving Lido up the wall. That'd do well for Graffion's reputation wouldn't it? Just came into residence and suddenly Lido quits. Would be impossible to replace the steward if that were the case.

Couldn't dwell on what ifs. Magpie swung by a storage room and pilfered a square of cloth to put the worn garments in. Qistling lighted on a shoulder and began to preen as the dragonborn headed out the front door. Guards on duty stepping away from the front door to shadow the secret king.

Magpie only made it a couple steps before turning to face them, "I'm just going to a tailor shop and then the keep. I don't need an escort there."

The guards, two unknown ones, shared a glance, "But Sire..." started the lion, "Our orders are to keep you safe." He was younger guard, fresh faced and still holding his hooked halberd with a nervous tightness. His partner a larger bear, eyes half-lidded as she held her great ax with a relaxed ease. Grig might like her.

A quiet sigh slipped out, "Look, I appreciate it but I don't need an escort everywhere." Leaning over, Magpie peered behind them, "Wouldn't you agree, Colonel Aegis?"

Heads snapped around at the mention of the mouse knight. Naturally, the guard captain was nowhere to be see, nor was the dragonborn when they turned back. The lion glanced up at his companion, "What do we do?" came the nervous hiss.

Broad shoulders rolled in a shrug, "He said he didn't want escort, we go back to our posts." She turned and ambled back to the doorway to wait and watch.

Magpie watched from a slight alcove, waiting until the pair began to move away before dropping the illusion. Nothing complex or difficult, just made a fence look slightly longer so they could hide behind it. Simple enough and a fun little exercise. Would not have stood up to any real scrutiny, but didn't always need something perfect. Quiet check of clothes then off to the tailor before the keep, ideas forming.

Taru leaned over, "Should we follow him?" watching as the dragonborn stepped down the street with package under arm.

Saris snorted, "Told you, he don't want no escort."

"Yeah, but..."

"Ain't no one ever told you? No means no."

"So can it be salvaged?" Magpie stood near the counter, not wanting to hover too close to the tortle tailor as he inspected the garments.

The tailor looked up at him, "Oh it could be," the words were slow and measured. In no real rush to get them out at the moment. "Would begin to look patchwork though." A finger poked through a torn seam, another coming out from where a knife had nearly caught the dragonborn. "They have seen better days."

Magpie offered a somewhat sheepish smile, "Life of an adventuring noble, I fear. On the receiving end of more daggers and arrows than I'd like," especially as of late.

A smile literally crawled onto the tailor's face, "Maybe an armor smith would be better suited then?" Hand lifted with all the speed of an arthritic iceberg before dropping to a slow clap on the counter. "Ha..." It swept up with that glacial speed and came down again. "Ha..."

That thought had been entertained many times, but Magpie never liked how armor felt on their body. Always felt too restrictive on the dragonborn. And getting fitted for armor? Entirely too personable. Magpie offered a laugh, "Oh if only a smith could offer what a skilled professional like yourself could." Leaning forward, they let their chin rest on fingers. "I tend to prefer the feel of fine cloth on my hide rather than leather and armor and," hand waved, "all the accouterments needed. Plus I am a bit of a peacock, and fancy armor tends to look good, but not protect."

Kingdoms rose and fell in the time it took the tortle tailor to nod, "Ahhh, understandable. I can repair or I can remake easily enough."

Magpie perked up, "Remake please, perhaps two sets if you have the time?" The tortle began to reach for his tools, "There is no real rush. If I could have it by tomorrow morning though, I would be eternally thankful, Lol."

Of course," he nodded, "and I will have the outfits ready by the morning. Shall I have it delivered to where you are staying?"

Better than hoped, "Please and thank you, Lol. Do you need my measurements for anything?"

Head shook, "No, no. I can readily work with the measurements here." While Lol was patting the clothes, Magpie reached into a pouch. The whole group had been here a couple days before, getting warmer clothing for the chilly climate here, so the price was still fresh on their mind. "Again, thank you very much. Just have them delivered to Lido at the Emerald Estate, they are for Graffion DeLuc."

Another nod, "Moak will have them there by morning," Lol's hand swept wide to indicate the lanky lizard folk teen that was perched in a corner of the shop, reading over some sort of illustrated scroll.

Magpie nodded, then thinking of the time, angled their head slightly. "Could I perhaps borrow him for a delivery or two?" Voice lifted enough for the lizard teen to hear, "I am more than glad to pay for timely service." That got Moak's attention, his frill standing tall and attention focused on the dragonborn noble as several coins were offered.

Karuth sighed, "I am telling you Urrad, there is nothing to worry about. All these matters are being handled as we speak."

The aarakocra waved a hand, "You say that but you were under house arrest until this very morning. Some stranger came in waving the Conduit about, which I might remind you was safely stored away, so he and his companions must be a bunch of thieves. Probably in league with Smoke On the Water, you saw that Tabaxi with him. Divine right? PHA! Then! Then we hear that one of your own personal guards tried to kill him! How is this being handled! How do we diplomats know we are safe?!"

Nails tapped on the table, showing his frustrated boredom despite how he wished to hide it. Urrad was a good diplomat, but a little excitable. Best to give him something before he get out of hand. "I have spoken with Graffion at length, he is not the Lost Heir. He is however, distantly related to some of our noble lines. In thanks for his returning the Conduit as well as his continued assistance with future matters of state, I have chosen to recognize some of his claim." Urrad focused on him like a laser. "The crown has seen fit to gift him and his entourage the Emerald Estate, as well as a minor title."

Feathers ruffled, "That shithole? Well, suppose that I can't complain then." Smoothing out his robes, the diplomat angled his head, "So where is the Conduit?"

"It is in safe hands until such a time as it is needed by the next ruler. The exact location of the Conduit of Kings is now a state guarded secret." Leaning forward, he stared down the diplomat across his desk, "Is this understood?"

Urrad found himself compelled to back up a step, but somehow managed to hold his ground. "Of course, Lord Steward." He bowed quickly, "it does put my mind at ease. Now, if I may excuse myself?"

Karuth dismissed him with a wave, turning his attention back to the papers before him. Urrad opened the door and nearly ran into Jenn, the equine scholar backing up with an, "Oh, my apologies. I was just about to knock." She stepped back enough to let the diplomat pass, "There is a delivery for you, Lord Steward. The youth refuses to even tell us what it is, just that a lord paid him to deliver it to you."

He sighed, "Let him in then," the papers would have to wait a few more minutes. Hopefully nothing else would pile up. There were times he'd swear they would multiply on their own whenever he looked elsewhere.

Jenn stepped into the hall, returning a second later with a lizard in tow. Karuth took the youth in at a glance. Young adult, looked like he'd grow up strong enough, dressed in good but not fine clothes, Greenish-blue hide had healthy shine to it, frill half-raised with as he did his best not to gawk at the office interior. There was a package tucked under his arm, plain wrapping tied up with a string. Looked like any one of a hundred citizens that roamed the streets. "So, I hear you have a parcel for me?"

The lizard lad gave a shaky bow, "Yush, M'lord. Was told to give it to no one else." A nervous glance was cast a Jenn before he shuffle forward. Stretching out as far as he could to lay the package on Karuth's desk, scuttling back when the Steward claimed it.

"What's your name?" Karuth asked while quietly probing the package with his magic. There was something there, but nothing that felt harmful.

Tongue flicked, "Moak, Sire."

Common enough name. "Tell me, Moak. Were you paid to deliver my reply as well?"

"Yuh, five hul silver." He sounded common enough, not stupid but not well educated either.

"Well then, I'd better not keep you waiting," Karuth pulled at the strings and looked into the package. Brows lifting before locking eyes with Moak. He slowly lifted a rich, blue-gray jacket, "Although perhaps you would like to explain this?"

A sly smile crept across the lizard's face. Moak straightening his back slowly, "I'm going to need those back, if you don't mind."

Magpie stood behind a folding screen in Karuth's office. Carefully examining themselves in the full-length mirror. Frost still clinging to their form as the alteration spell faded. Colorful frill breaking as the dragonborn shook their head, vanishing in an icy puff. "I bet you find this amusing," Karuth called from the other end of the office.

"Hilarious." It wasn't often that they had access to such a large mirror. Rarer to find one made of glass or so clear. Magpie turned slowly and looked over their body, taking advantage of the fine mirror while they could. "After the trials, I thought I might try a bit of magical exercise to sharpen my disguise skills." Magpie had felt as if their power were wanting to shift, to grow. Wasn't the first time they'd felt that, and knew that they could change the way their magic flowed somewhat. Guide it down a new path as it were. Sadly, that change came with a cost and Magpie had to trade out some old knowledge for new. "I'd let them grow dull."

In it's place, their magic had formed a new concept. Allowing them to temporarily reshape their body. Turning into Moak had been the first test, and it seems to have gone well. Although the need for clothing that fit the new form was irritating.

Karuth snorted, "You are just lucky Jenn was confused, if she'd called the guards..." He sighed, "Regardless, some warning would be appreciated next time."

"Of course, I'll warn you the next time I decide to try and infiltrate the keep while in disguise. And don't worry, the clothes were from a second-hand shop Moak told me about. Good kid, got him running a couple errands for me."

A hum came from the Lord Steward, "Never said it wasn't a good idea, though you may want to work on your cadence." Papers rustled as he decoded the letter.

"I assure you, I matched his diction perfectly." Magpie turned to look at their body side-on. Fingers tracing over their side and up under breasts as if examining themselves for the first time. Head rolled and voice dropped to match Karuth's perfectly. "I have been doing this my entire life. Educated by the finest half-mad Kenku." Now that was a strange cadence to copy, since the Lord Steward liked to pause every few words.

Whatever comments Karuth had were kept to himself. "As for your letter, I am talking of your anatomy, of course." Magpie looked at themselves in the mirror, hand sweeping over their belly and beyond. "It's not ubiquitous by any means, but it's not entirely uncommon either." Leaning forward, Magpie stared at him from around the curtain. Brows bounced slightly, "What? You thought it was some freak thing? Rest assured, you are not the first of your kind."

That would have been nice to know. Martigan never treated them differently, but had been insistent that Magpie keep it secret. So something could be done about it?

For perhaps the first time in their life, they realized they'd never thought of themselves as one way or another. Magpie had always been a blank, a base to layer something else. Now Magpie was known to people, but unknown to themselves. Magpie had friends that could be trusted. And more than that, Magpie was welcome. Maybe it was time to change the way they... he... she... thought of themselves?

Something to ponder on later. For the moment, it was time for a man-to-man talk with Lord Steward Karuth of the Lunar Protectorate.

Karuth looked up from the letter as Magpie finally came out from behind the curtain. "Took the liberty of translating the whole letter while you were preening yourself back there."

Magpie adjusted his scarf, offering a quick smile to the older dragonborn, "Sorry, I was doing a bit of self-reflection on top of being a peacock." He laughed quietly, tapping a chair, "Polite or not, I'm pulling rank and taking a seat." Karuth waved a hand towards the chair, Magpie dropping with a sigh. "Never felt so naked before in my entire life. And I don't know much about my condition as you call it. I was raised by a kenku named Martigan. Growing up, I broached the topic with him several times. Each time his reply was, 'You are Magpie.' Or the occasional, 'You are as the Silver Lady birthed you."

"You'll have to tell me about it, Your Majesty."

Muzzle wrinkled, "In private can we please drop those formalities? And I would love to tell you everything, but on another day. I mostly wanted to get out before I either passed out or began to sulk."

Karuth nodded and tapped the letter. "Back to matters at hand then. Everett is being detained pending your decision as to his fate."

Fingers rapped off the armrest, "My choice from the graveyard still stands. I believe that he deserves a second chance, even if he did try to kill me." Hands rolled upwards, "I'm still here, but I don't want to just say let him loose in case he decides to try and finish it. We know that I am not who I was claiming to be, but is he?" A head shake, "Then could keep it at some bold claim made by an adventurer who you saw merit in. Depending on how much you trust your man, that is."

He laughed, "When you asked my real name, I was terrified I was going to end up in shackles alongside him."

A quiet chuckle, "If I'd wanted you in shackles, you would have been long ago." Karuth tapped the letter, bringing their attention back to that, "And what civil war are you talking about here? Unless you mean our standoff with the Central Republic." A shrug brought a sigh from the steward, "That stemmed from them 'misplacing' the Conduit themselves, but with it now back in our possession, they almost seem relieved to have a resolution to this mess."

Magpie hummed, "Several people from other areas had mentioned a war when I introduced myself as nobility of Amatta. They were under the impression it was more dire than it seems to be. Hence my misunderstanding of the situation." Sitting up, he pulled the amulet off his neck, "Does remind me. I have a feeling this is important."

Karuth's eyes lit up, "It is, very much so." He gladly collected the amulet as it was offered. "There are several mausoleums that cannot be accessed without that. It's been missing for..."

"About two decades?"

"Yes." Karuth wound the chain around the opaline amulet and put it on his desk. "Continuing, there will be a small contingent of guards outside of the estate; an appropriate number for a duke. If your cover remains secret, risk of assassination is fairly low."

Knuckles rapped off wood, "One attempt in ten years is a pretty good record if you ask me." Tail tapped an ankle lightly, "We were curious about that, especially Corrine since she was wanting to tend to the gardens."

A low hum, "The matter of Smoke... this is somewhat troubling." Magpie's heart sank, wondering if he'd have to deliver the news to Jynx that his brother had been sent to the gallows. "Our ambassadors in Cydonia have been asked for a good reason to grant us access to him. He is under total lock down it would seem." Fingers linked and Karuth leaned forward, waiting for a reason.

Magpie nodded, "That would explain why Jynx hasn't been able to even get a message through to him." Why would a pirate, even one as infamous as Smoke, be under such heavy guard? Curious. "I'll have to get back to you on a sufficiently good reason, once I think of one."

"It is a head scratcher." The letter was lifted, "As for your final inquiry. I had gone to the theater sometime last year. They were putting on... oh what was that story? The Mindcrime Conspiracy, that's it. Sad ending, but an interesting, compelling story."

Tongue clicked in thought, "Last year? Might have been before the change in management then. This will take some explaining and might sound crazy." Magpie sat up and looked Karuth dead in the eyes. "I know Narzire from the Waltham-Narzire theater company." Magpie produced copies of several documents. Some, the letters from Narzire's Brasshold estate, and others from the colony ship that had brought Pickle, Grig, Corrine, and Magpie here.

"I met him ten years ago. Back then he was a mercenary, known for being one of the best, a reputation he defended fiercely. He," Magpie swallowed around the lump in his throat. Hand lifting to tap his chest, "My actions lead to my adopted father dying by Narzire's hand. And," the hand dropped to rest briefly on the dragonborn's stomach. "Other things."

Karuth listened as Magpie took a moment to collect himself. "I kept loose tabs on Narzire for some time, making sure we were never in the same area. Then one day, he just dropped off the map. Come to find out he had come here through some form of magic called Plane Break."

"Plane break?!" Karuth hissed, "Good heavens, that's...."

"I know." The letters from the colony ship were laid on the desk, "Translations and untranslated copies, if you want to verify. Narzire has been here for some time, I'm not sure how long. What we have learned is that he's been using the theater group to move drugs," out came some of the delivery reports, "weapons," more pages, "and even assassinations." A list of people that Narzire had arranged 'private shows' for. "And he seems to be behind the Black Hearts."

Magpie let Karuth at least scan the papers before continuing. "When we first learned of him, I had to verify for myself if this was the same man I knew. So," a finger tapped his cheek scales turning a bronze color. Voice shifting, "He was approached by Juno, an antique dealer that saw one of his plays and just had to meet him." There was that coy smile and tilt of her head, "Rather disappointed that he didn't respond when I brought up some information from his past. Something that would dig right into that ego of his." A tap returned the scales to normal. "It wasn't until later that we'd discovered he wanted to set up a private show for Juno, see what she knew and who she was.

"So she sent him a letter. Rather simple and straight forward, handed off to a clerk of his." Magpie blinked at a realization, "I hope he got it. I'd given the letter to Cavalay, a clerk of his who happened to be on the airship with us on the way in. If he did, then he should be arriving in Moonsteppe ten days from now. At which point he'll hopefully go to the meeting place Juno offered up and look for a letter from her."

Karuth was quiet for a long moment. Staring at the messages and inventories laid out before him. "Well," he started after several minutes, "This is a rather sizable chunk of information you have dropped on my desk. Provided it's true and solid, it is a lot to chew through." He idly flipped a page and looked at the back, "You'll understand if I would like to take a day or two to read through it all?"

"Completely reasonable." Magpie stretched with a deep groan, "I need to go recover. As I said before, I just wanted to sharpen my skills." There was a moment of hesitation as he looked at the steward. The barest nugget of idea that was digging at him. "A question though, something to clear my plate." Karuth looked mildly annoyed, but didn't move to dismiss the Secret King.

"We're not related, are we?"

It was a stupid question really, with only the filmiest of suspicion behind it. The confused expression on the Steward's face prompted him to elaborate. "I mean, us both being dragonborn, both a form of caster, both have ties to the Protectorate. And..." this was the clincher, "you seemed to change tune rather quickly about me."

Karuth blinked at the younger dragonborn. Once. Twice. "If we were related by blood, I would be king, not simply Lord Steward, keeping the throne warm for you."

Disappointed relief. "True. I only ask because I don't know much of my mother." The frosty marks on his arm pulsed as Magpie let a flow of magical ice form into a shape beside the desk, "Her look," it twist into an image of her, "her perfume," there was that familiar scent, "her voice." That was always painful to hear, so he left well enough alone. "I know nothing of my father."

The Lord Steward's eyes were locked onto the illusion. "Her Liege was secretive about her child, I did not see him, or her, before they fled. I'm sorry, I haven't any idea where she could be, Your Majesty. She fled more than two decades past, during the riots."

Heart hammered in his chest, did Karuth just call Mother, Her Liege? Eyes dropped to the signet, rubbing a finger over the cool metal.

"Martigan," the story began, illusion swirling into the image of the kenku, "only ever called her Lady of Ice or Silver Miss. Her might have mentioned her name once, but..." Throat tightened slowly, "It was winter, colder than any I have experienced. We'd stopped in some small town, I don't know which one or where, was only a toddler at the time." A year perhaps from when Karuth last saw her, "I woke in the middle of the night with her hurrying us out. We made it to the edge of town before she stopped and handed me to Martigan, told me that she loved me..." That lump froze any words until it was swallowed away.

"We didn't stop until morning. Martigan leaving me under the care of an inn keep until he returned." After everything that Magpie had been through, the dragonborn simply went limp in the chair. Every last trace of energy fading, "He told me she fell protecting us from some old foe."

Pained sympathy flashed across the elder's face. "I see..." His chair creaked as he stood, crossing to shelf bearing several glasses and decanters. "A gift from her, when I joined the council. Cydonian Whiskey, I always keep it for special occasions and to remember..." He brushed the decanter gently with a hand before pouring. "For Her Majesty then." A glass was set before Magpie, amber liquid swirling smoothly. "And to Hi...Your Majesty." Not one to drink often, today was an exception. Magpie taking the offered glass and tapping it against the Steward's lightly.

The drinks were downed at the same time. It was rich and smoky, flowing down the gullet before settling to spread its warmth through his body. "Some twenty years ago," He began, looking into the glass. "I was on the Queen's advisory council when it happened. Some called it a civil war," he snorted, "they were riots, plain and simple. There was another advisor by the name of Ezra, he'd been pressuring the crown to move away from the concept of Rule by Divine Right, wanted to secularize the nation."

That name sent chills racing down Magpie's spine. Ezra was a name not unfamiliar to the party. Karuth continued, his attention on the glass before him. "Needless to say, the Queen wasn't much interested in the idea. Ezra was persistent though and with some political backstabbing, some well placed naysayers and criers later, Moonsteppe was in full chaos. Ezra whipped his zealots into a frenzy, even storming the keep itself to massacre the royalty and destroy every vestige of divine right the monarchy had." The glass was tilted towards Magpie, "Only the Conduit survived.

"By the time I had taken the reins of power to stabilize the city and quell the rebellion, your mother had fled and Ezra lay dead in the streets." He glanced towards the opaline blade that hung on a wall, "Cut him down myself." Draining the rest of his liquor, he set the glass down with a decisive click, "I never saw Alisia again."

Magpie almost sighed the name, "Alisia... I never knew her name." It was a comfort to know it now. What name did she have for Magpie? A frown creased his features, "But how did she end up..." a hand waved, "Where I grew up?"

"Queen Alisia was always planning. I do not doubt she had some reason. As for this Martigan, I do not know of any raven by that name."

Could it be... "Was Ezra a spell caster? Perhaps one that would be experimenting with becoming a Lich?"

Muzzle wrinkled slightly, "Magically inclined? I believe so, it has been such a long time. I do not believe he was working towards that particular goal though." Another illusion, the Lich as remembered from their meetings. "If that's him, he's clearly not been using any skin salve."

The hand dropped, "We encountered him twice now, he had names and information and things he should not have. Our last meeting, one of his hired goons called him Ezra. I don't like the coincidence."

Karuth nodded slowly. The pair sitting in silence for a moment. "For now though... if you'll excuse me, I've a meeting with representatives from the Grand Caravan. Seems they've a new infrastructure project that requires cooperation and capital."

A slight laugh, "Also don't forget Rajan's request for a trade route to Brasshold." Magpie heaved an overly dramatic sigh, regretting it as their chest spasmed. Biting back a cough, he continued, "He's been asking me about that." A groan was driven from the dragonborn as he stood up. "Might need to tell him we've escalated it to being thought about."

An audible sigh, "He had inquired about that during the Trials as well. I would expect and envoy from the Desreti Kingdom to practice more tact during official business, but alas." He tapped something on hi desk, "Not to mention we already have trade available between our realms via caravan routes." Eyes strayed to something on his desk, "Actually if sounds like this new proposal may increase that trade. Provided it actually works and isn't some mad quackery."

"If it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck, it might be a drunk kenku."

With a nod, the steward stood up, sweeping his hand towards the door in a clear dismissal. King or not, Karuth was still the one in charge of the kingdom and there was a lot more on his plate than Magpie dare imagine. He felt bad that he had just added to that pile.

Magpie started for the door, then paused. "One last thing before I go." For just a second, Karuth looked very tired and very old. "Nothing dangerous of threatening, just a simple question." A soft smile graced his lips, "Where would you suggest going for a drink, or to unwind." Karuth's brow arched. "Not a brothel. Just spent a fair bit of time in one of those places." The brow lifted further, "Rajan's mother runs one in Brasshold, the Silken Embrace, and it was a nice enough safe heaven."

Karuth's eyes lit up, "Ah, the Silken Embrace, it has been a while since..." His frills shaded a vivid pink as he coughed, "Well, can understand the need to unwind. There are, of course, many fine taverns throughout the city, depending on what you might find enjoyable. There's one thing in particular I personally enjoy."

Fingers interlocked as he leaned forward, "I'm certain that you how our buildings are heated using natural geothermal energies. Far nicer than running countless fires and having to huddle around them until a room is warmed to one's liking." Magpie recalled Lido mentioning that about the Estate. "A side benefit of this being that there are hot springs, which are certainly very relaxing. Often find myself heading down to one after a particularly rough day of dealing with diplomats and their endless demands and word games." He cleared his throat, "While it is no Silken Embrace, there is a facility I would freely recommend."

Brow arched as he watched the Steward write down several business names and where they were. "One last thing from me to you, before it slips my mind and you are off on some other business." Karuth blew lightly on the ink, "Should anyone betray you, reveal your identity as Magpie or the position of Agent Regal, they shall find themselves taking a trip to the Souless Deep."

Magpie's brow bounced higher as his tail flicked slowly behind him. "The Souless Deep? Is that a prison that I should know about?"

Karuth carefully rolled the paper, "It's the deepest part of the ocean, located to the west of the Watchman Isles." He moved close to the younger dragonborn, his voice dropping to a whisper. "Your name is your most closely guarded secret, and your current role within the kingdom is ours. We are going to keep it that way."

His words sent a chill down Magpie's back. "Understood," a quick smile, "I'll make sure to let the others know. You shouldn't have to worry about us." Karuth just let out a quiet hum as he handed over the paper before leading the way out.