Alyse’s Mysterious Partner

Alyse stayed silent for a long moment, her violet eyes reflecting a brief, flickering shadow of contemplation.

Austin's brutal suggestion was far from irrational. In fact, it was a dark, pragmatic thought that had crossed her own mind on more than one occasion.

Instead of treading on eggshells, agonizing over every move, and suffering the disrespect of traditionalist old fools, why couldn't she simply eliminate the entire opposition in one decisive, bloody stroke?

That would be the simplest way out of this situation but her current strength and situation makes it impossible.

Slowly, Alyse shook her head, a bitter, weary smile playing upon her lips.

She knew the reality of her situation all too well.

"If only it were that simple, Master Austin," Alyse answered, her voice carrying a heavy, quiet weight. "The reality of ducal politics is vastly more complicated than a simple assassination order.