The King's Chamber, Early Winter...
(Minister Kain) Erik suddenly had no taste even for ale, let alone the glass of wine in his hand. He set the glass aside and sighed, rubbing at both of his temples with the thumb and index fingers of his off-hand. "Valid points, all." he replied drearily, "I suppose that, having heard of Taric's actions...such an act of treachery may not be out of the question." He paused a moment, secretly thinking to himself that, if the reports of the massacre were true, the Mirish people deserved whatever he had been giving them, and then continued: "But...we have not had word from Sir Taric since the defeat of Elbrethian forces in Miring. It could be quite possible that he is...a traitor, as you say. I ask you, leave me be for a time to think of these things..."
The King's Dining Hall, Early Winter...
A gasp had gone up amongst the knights at the sight of the Mirish crown, and Erik could not help but smile at the way the tale, even stripped of any embellishments the diplomat might have given it, had enthralled the young squire-turned-knights. He could not help but feel that, perhaps, Terenos was lying about the way Leuki and Chicane had died. But in any case, his loyalty was assured: If he wanted to kill him, Terenos had several chances already since entering the courtyard. Further, why work to turn back Preston forces without a fight if the intent was to capture all three nations?
No.
The letter Erik had received was, quite clearly, little more than lies with enough truth mixed in to cleverly conceal deception. Enough rumors of Sir Taric's misdeeds had reached the palace for Erik to be certain that those portions were correct, but whatever evidence of treachery Aulon had attempted to lay at Terenos' feet was little more than hot air. As Terenos finished his tale, the King couldn't help but grin a broad grin of joy.
Erik's mangled sword hand snaked out across the table to take the Mirish crown, while his off-hand slapped Terenos on the back in a congratulatory fashion. "I have heard many a tale of the events surrounding Miring, I am glad to have finally heard your side of the story." he informed the diplomat, still smiling all the while, "You will find that your quarters are much as you left them. I know you must be weary from your travels, but I ask, if you are not too tired then stay, and drink a while. If you wish to retire, you may and I shall not be offended...but first: Do you know who led the Mirish people in their massacre? Did you see a banner?"