B, The Extractor
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Extraction is probably more useful than murder, yes?
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It takes a few weeks but you get a grip on the court. Your arrival set off a flurry of messages from the castle, and a few wards set in the right places caught a few sneaks. Helping massively were a handful of tattletales trying to gain the favor of the new spymaster.
You politely hear them out, then invite them to tell their stories to your associate. The Extractor bundles out, a warm smile on his grandfatherly face. The would be informant is already dazed by his magic, and in minutes the Extractor will have taken everything of import from their mind. Not that they would remember that.
You try not to look too closely at the Extractor, and never in the eye. He reassured you he would never rifle through your mind, but you wouldn’t want to push it. He insists that he must never be seen by someone who wears a chorae. You are not quite brave enough to ask why.
Digesting this information takes time, but it does lead a rather big fish on the Council. You have also been checking on them as well.
Chancellor: Publius Valura: A functionary, family fled the Empire. Assigned by King Gyre to help Prince Richard, known for competence but obviously willing to be bribed. Mainly out for himself, but does possess a fondness towards Richard.
Marshal: Kaius Mercut: Brother in arms of Prince Richard. Grew up together and share a martial inclination. Brash, but obviously loyal to the Prince. Not half bad as the County’s marshal. Mostly ignores your presence at this time.
Court Wizard: Evana: Court Wizard, mostly specializing in battle magic. The College of War’s attempt to ingratiate themselves with the Prince. Young and talented, but not gifted with intrigue. You’ll see how long it takes for her to discover you are also a wizard.
Steward: Darren Hart: Holdover from before Prince Richard took over. Corrupt, in the pockets of the Harkons.
Bishop: Sarvaris- A complacent priest. Loyal to his church and reports to them. Fond of his drink.
Spymaster: You!
Wife: None. A lot of interest but nothing concrete has developed yet.
The Steward, Darren, appears to be rather steeped in corruption. He has been embezzling funds, and selling secrets and info to Duke Harkon. You have a pair of guards grab the Steward’s aide to get more proof. While not exactly the most discrete, with the you now have enough evidence to discredit the steward. You also have the location of the Harkon’s handlers, but you have to get a move on them quickly before word spreads you’re snatching people.
What do you do with the Steward?
A. To the Prince! Boosts his trust in you, increases his suspicions of the Harkons. Increases distrust of other councilors towards you.
B. Turn the Steward. With your large amount of evidence (and perhaps just a touch of magical influence) the steward becomes yours, giving you more influence on the council.
And as for the Harkon agents holed up outside town?
C. Send the guards in. Loud and indiscreet, but if you want them taken care this is the simplest choice.
D. Put a magical tracker on them. Allows you to keep tabs on them, but leaves them free to cause trouble.
E. Leave them be for now. Also feel free to write in options as well!