The Plot Thickens

Fred had not cherished the idea of calling for his aid, but there was really no one else he could turn to. He needed to break the hold the Torturers had over him and the only man in the Kingdom that he thought would help him kill King Emry was Zular. Fred had a most dangerous task set before him, and only dangerous men could help him. But he had no intention of falling prey to Zular's own schemes. Fred knew he could not be trusted, but still he was caught by surprise by this new turn of events. How did Zular get his Court Chalice? And why was he going to poison it? Did Zular intend to kill Fred as well as the King?

Fred had never been one for intrigue, he had been taught to deal with life head on, in the most direct manner. And he saw no reason not to deal with Zular in the same way. But he knew he had to be careful. No one knew he was in Zular's manse and it would be a very simple thing for him to just disappear. Stepping out from behind the curtains, Fred strode down the hall to the room Zular had gone into. Zular stood at a table strewn with papers and scrolls. The young lord looked up in anger, but when he saw it was Fred he smiled with surprise.

"Frederigo, I hadn't expected to see you so soon," he said pleasantly. "Is there something you need? Or perhaps you came to discuss certain matters with me that you wish to keep private from the others?"

"I am not one for keeping secrets, Duke Zular," Fred answered with a hint of disdain.

"No," Zular smiled, "I did not think you did. But perhaps you should learn. You'll stay alive longer."

"Is my life in danger?"

Zular's eyes narrowed, "We engage in a business which endangers all our lives. Do you think it otherwise?"

"Once the deed is done, what need I fear?"

"Discovery."

"Surely you will not tell."

"Ofcourse not. I am not your enemy Lord Fred. In fact, I hope that this shall be but the beginning of a beautiful friendship."

"Is that why you procured my personal Chalice? Do you wish to add some priceless jewel to its gilded crest? I did not know I was worthy of such honor."

Zular was startled at Fred's words, but he quickly recovered and said, "You have keen eyes and deep ears, my friend. Yes, your cup. I meant it as a surprise. Tonight I was going to invite our little cabal to a private party, to celebrate our grand endeavor. I have everyone's royal cup here."

"A party."

"Yes. I find such things bring me luck when I embark on a new venture. And I intend to unveil my plan at the party."

"I'm curious, Duke Zular. How did you manage to bring my Chalice here?"

1. The Duke smiled, but his eyes cut like knives.

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