9.2 Reform

With this new information in hand, you quickly head back to your residence. Disregarding your feigned promise to Kyros, you fully intend on using it to your advantage. Though to what end, you're not entirely sure of yet. Should you begin spreading the word too soon, he will be able to mark you as its source. However, so long as you gain the throne, it should be of little consequence. Alternatively, if he were to gain the throne after such a betrayal, it would only mean your demise. Fearing the chance you may not win the election, you decide to keep the information to yourself for the time being. When the time of election has finally arrived, you begin to question this decision. Unfortunately, it is far too late to change your choice. You're filled with apprehension when you're **** to stand before the large crowd to deliver your final address. The words of the previous speakers had fallen on deaf ears, leaving you with little idea of what to say. Completely abashed and unsure you slowly move forward to speak to the crowd.

Your first words are awkward and faltering as you address the group. You're acutely aware you are losing their interest and need to change tactics. Deciding to play on their emotions the way yours have been, you quickly change topics, turning the conversation to your deceased husband. The crowd has **** but to turn their attention back to you as their previous Emperor is mentioned. Sensing their caution towards the subject, you decide to take a strikingly different approach. With tears in your eyes, you begin commiserating with the group regarding the Emperors less than redeeming qualities. The individuals that seemed to have lost interest initially now are listening attentively, You can feel the eyes of your guard and the patricians observing you unfavorably as your speech continues. Just as you begin regaling the audience with a tale of a particularly unpleasant visit with the Emperor, one of the guards unceremoniously pulls you away from the stand.

The crowd boos in protest at your removal but quickly disperses when the guards begin moving about. You're swiftly escorted away from the stage and back home. The guards seem particularly rough as the lead you back to your chambers. It seems as if their loyalty lies deeper with the deceased Emperor than with you. Uncaring of their temperament, you graciously enter your room, relieved to be away from the chaos. Nevertheless, a sudden feeling of unease begins filling your mind. During your studies, it was not uncommon to find instances of **** right before an election. This information, along with the knowledge of your obvious treason of your deceased husband, would be obviously grounds for such an ****. This might not be such a pressing issue were it not for the fact that you have offended your guard. Knowing this will only be of further detriment, you decide to act quickly. Turning back around, you march to the doors of you chamber and loudly throw them open. The guards have **** but to acknowledge you when you call one of them over.

"Go summon your Captain." You order brusquely while trying to keep your tone authoritative.

The guard in question casts you a somewhat irate look before lazily replying, "It is late, the Captain will see you in the morning."

Pursing your lips, you move over to stand before the young man. Though he is taller than you, you hardly find yourself intimidated by his lanky figure. Folding your arms over your chest, you lock your eyes into his own.

"I do not recall asking your opinion, soldier." You snap hotly, your anger and demand no longer an act. "Or need I remind you who it is you are addressing."

The man glances over at his companion warily, suddenly aware of his place. His eyes slowly shift back to you guiltily before he nods in affirmation.

"Well," You address him impatiently when he fails to move. "See to it."

The young man quickly snaps to attention before making his way down the corridor. You shoot the other guard a look when you turn to re-enter your chambers. It is high time everyone realizes their place and more importantly yours. Regardless of the election results, you are still technically the ruler until the winner's inauguration. Should you win, it troubles you to think those meant to protect you would be doing it apathetically. You continue thinking this over as you pace around your chambers. Finally, after a rather long wait, you hear the doors behind you open.