A Roll of the Die - 1. Inception
Copyright© 2026 by Michael Loucks
Chapter 53: Day 71
After breakfast the next morning, Matthias left Milos, Karla, and Tyra and made his way to Uma's house. When he knocked on the door, it was quickly opened, and he was admitted.
"You haven't completed your mission!" she accused, seeming annoyed.
"On the contrary," Matthias/Kristof countered, "the Merchant Kurtis lies dead in his residence above his shop. His body is yet to be discovered."
"That does not meet our criterion for 'public'."
"He was the perfect target, but was always in the company of others outside his house. Ensure his body is discovered and spread rumors. That will achieve the same result as his body being found in the street. Once you do that, and it is known, you can name the third target."
"I knew that behind the revelry and excess lay an intelligent man," Uma observed. "That is what offends you, is it not? Your older brothers are not nearly as intelligent or capable, yet will gain the benefits, such as they are, of your father's title."
"Among other insults and slights," Matthias/Kristof replied.
"I have someone who can make an inquiry with the City Guard," Uma said. "Go, and return after your evening meal."
Matthias/Kristof nodded and departed.
🎲🎲🎲
"We need to see King Edward immediately!" Tristan said to a servant in the Haven Keep when they arrived just past mid-day.
"The King has left word that he is not to be disturbed, and is not receiving visitors," the young man declared.
"He will see us. Announce that Tristan of Newtown brings an urgent report from Count Matthias, and the safety of the Realm depends on delivering it immediately."
"As I said, the King gave strict instructions that he is not to be disturbed."
"Then I wish to see Princess Miri immediately."
"The Prince gave similar instructions."
"What is your name, boy?"
"Wolf."
"Thank you. With that knowledge, I may properly denounce you for High Treason."
The servant paled.
"One moment," he said.
He disappeared, and when he returned, Tristan smiled.
"Tristan!" Jillian exclaimed happily.
"Jillian," he said with a smile. "Would you please inform Princess Miri that I need to speak to her?"
"Right away! Are you staying overnight?"
"I am."
Lisette rolled her eyes as Jillian smiled broadly and turned back into the Royal wing, as it was obvious what was going to happen.
"I wouldn't want to be you, Wolf," Tristan said.
"Please, Sir! I didn't know!"
"I informed you, so you did know. Now, go about your duties while I contemplate your fate."
Wolf slunk away, looking decidedly unhappy.
"Does Princess Miri know you're ploughing her handmaid?" Lisette asked quietly.
"I'm sure she does, as Jillian is her cousin!"
"You're incorrigible!"
"Indeed, I am!" Tristan declared smugly.
Jillian returned about two minutes later and led Tristan, Lisette, and Priscilla into the Royal chambers.
"Who is this?" Miri asked when they were shown into her sitting room.
"I am sorry, Princess," Tristan replied. "Count Matthias instructed me to report only to King Edward, but I was told he gave orders not to be disturbed."
"Let me ask Prince Robert to arrange an immediate audience."
"Thank you."
"Are you staying after your audience with King Edward?"
"Yes, we'll return to Wickham tomorrow."
"Then after our evening meal, you may have your audience with Jillian!"
"I am most grateful, Lady Princess!" Tristan declared happily.
Lisette rolled her eyes again and shook her head. They waited for about ten minutes before Prince Robert came to escort them to the King's sitting room.
"Tristan, come into my private office," the King bade.
Tristan followed the King and shut the door behind them.
"Report, please," King Edward commanded.
Tristan provided a detailed report and handed over the evidence Matthias had collected.
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