Those who had once gathered to whisper their frustrations about Thalassaria's latest 'fancy' had long been investigating its origin.
If she had truly fallen victim to some human jinx, if her mind had been clouded by a hex, then her transgressions might be forgiven. They would mourn her fall, and seek to purify her soul.
But if this… love… was of her own volition? If she had chosen a human male over all her suitors?
Then there could be no redemption. Only rebellion.
They believed she was too enthralled by her new lover to notice their whispers. That she was distracted… unaware.
But Thalassaria had ruled for millennia. She was no fool.
She had known from the beginning. She had let them conspire. Had watched as they gathered. Had smiled as they plotted, thinking themselves clever.
And now, they gathered in the palace of the Grand Duke of Thal'Azuul, one of the proudest vassal-realms beneath Submareth, nestled deep within the Shivering Sea.
