250 Assassination Attempt

On a damp gray morning, a lone horse rode through the southern gate of Rolar, the capital of the Kingdom of Biarkh. Guards escorted the young man with umber skin to the royal palace in Tatiana Square. They led him through long, winding corridors until they reached a secluded office. 

A man draped in an ivory robe welcomed him with open arms. "Sam, my boy, I thought you were done for..." a terrified, yet relieved Utar said. 

"Master," Sam whispered then bowed. "I'm glad I made it back in one piece..." 

"Fetch the boy some water, and some fresh clothes while you're at it!" Utar screamed at the guards as he dismissed them. He sat beside the shaken young man and observed him with kind, fatherly eyes. 

"I'd like to speak to His Excellency," Sam said. "Stalwart's playing them all." 

"King Nicholas is holding a war council with all his allies," Utar said. "Whatever you have to tell the Bishop, you can tell me too."