Loyalty

You groan and raise your hand to pinch the bridge of your nose, as though that could quell the growing ache in your head. Your duty commands you to protect your people: raise an army, march it south, and drive out the goblin nest for good. Your loyalty instructs you to obey the king and send him the men he requests, even if it damages your capability at home. Your honor demands you charge east, take the traitor Tannis' head, and mount it on a spike outside The Spire. Ideally you'd like to do all three, however you know you have the power to do but one...

For now.

"Sir Zachary" you grumble "Do as I instructed, raise the war-banner and marshal the men."

The knight nods before asking, "And where shall we be preparing to march Your Grace?"

You let out a heavy breath "The bulk of my forces will deploy towards Twin's Pass. But gather a company and send them to the capital. I will answer my cousin's call."

Sir Zachary Tobias bows respectfully and resumes his place. You sit back in your throne and mull over the decision. You know, politically, it's the right one; to refuse the king's request would be an insult if not outright treasonous. However, but you fear how weak it will leave you to face the goblin horde at Twin's Pass, to say nothing of Lord Tannis' treachery. Still, Tannis has betrayed both you and the king; you may be able to use that.

"Lord Endwin!" You command and the old steward stands attentive, "This... envoy to the king. Have him inform His Majesty that I am dispatching a company of my best warriors to his side. Also, illuminate him to Count Tannis' treachery and request the king raise a **** to deal with him."

At the last, both Lord Endwin and Sir Zachary look stunned, but your steward simply states, "As you wish, Your Grace."

You slam your fist down on the armrest of your throne and curse this turn of events. For the first time in the history of the south, the Duke of the Frostpeaks has asked for help. This is not how you wish to be remembered in the history books. However, it still might not be. Closer ties to the crown never hurt any noble in the past, and by doing the king's bidding you may end up strengthening the duchy in the long run. You know you'll still have to play your cards right though, and your ever diminishing strength doesn't help you any.

"Your Grace," Lady Adrianna speaks up, "if it pleases you I have matters of the Coven to bring to your attention."

You're in no mood to deal with mage business right now and abruptly shout, "Later!" and storm out of the hall.