Tala supposed it could be almost anyone...and if someone was watching the house...
"Well, come in then. The weathers absolutely ghastly."
She brought John inside, and politely took his coat and hat.
"I suppose there's no point in needlessly arousing your suspicions. We have an...unwelcome guest at this hour. A messenger from the Former Queen, come to elicit our help for her plots. I will only ask you listen, and report what you hear to William, as is your duty. He'll be on his way soon enough...but like I said, William shall make his own determination about things...lucky you, you've stumbled upon a conspiracy. Tread carefully, John."
...
Tala entered the room once more and spoke to Laythes messenger.
"Ah, to continue?
...Honeyed words are indeed sweet to hear. While I appreciate the Queens new tactics, it's too little, far too late.
From a purely, logical perspective-I am my husband have nothing to gain from defecting to the Queens side, as of now. Neither have Nikophoros or Kathos given us a reason to. And, you have given little incentive.
On the other hand, we have everything to lose. If I accepted, and was executed for my crimes, what would the Queen care? She would have sown distrust, and a rival of hers would be gone. Something that no doubt figured in her plans. Even the rumor of you visiting here would no doubt give my enemies the means to harm me.
Quite simply-the Queen has no leverage anymore. Not here, anyway. She cannot compel us to follow her whim."
Tala took another moment. She had never stood up for anything in her life, not really. It was all just a job. A mark. A scam...
"...Tell her if she wants to try and take Ligoria's throne back, I'll fight her. I'll resist her, and her forces with every ounce of my strength. Tell her to seek a new life from herself, and spare further lives in these wars, for the pursuit of her vainglory.
Tell her this isn't personal between us. Ligoria is my home now. I'm willing to defend it. Until she proves herself the stronger, or the rightful ruler, I must defend it from her as well.
Tell her if she tries to harm me or my family from afar-threats, murder, or blackmail-it will become personal. In that case, I will gladly hunt Ralia down, and carve the black heart from her chest.
Is that clear enough? I suggest you leave by the back entrance. This place is being watched.
In a moment anyway. John might want to speak with you as well. For now, I'd wish a little privacy." She finished, motioning to the new man.