Duke Lancelot slowly turned his head and looked toward the distant fortress of Frostvele. The faint glow of watchfires could still be seen along the walls in the distance.
"One of their most important rules," he said slowly, "is that they do not assassinate members of the Imperial family."
Then he looked back at Ethan.
"And they do not kill individuals who are openly under the Emperor's protection."
Ethan blinked slightly.
Duke Lancelot continued calmly.
"My appearance here tonight is already a message."
He lifted his hand slightly and gestured toward the battlefield.
"Anyone watching this will understand that you are currently under Imperial protection."
Ethan slowly understood the meaning behind those words.
"So the Assassin Tower will stop sending people?"
"For now," Duke Lancelot replied calmly.
"They will not move openly while the Emperor's protection stands."
The night grew quiet again.
Ethan remained silent, but his mind caught one particular word.
For now.
