Diane sighed, watching Deston start to wander off. "I don't think it's a good idea for you to wander the women's quarters," she said. "Why don't you come with me? You said Gavin needs to see me, and it would make me feel better to have an escort." She knew that, just as women were not supposed to go into the men's quarters, men were not really supposed to wander the women's quarters. She didn't want any more people to get into trouble.<br/><br/>**********<br/><br/>Gavin nodded. "I already agree with you, Lord Martinez. While a direct route would be ideal, I do understand how it can create tension between those who have grown rich from the current trade and who would be elevated if we change the routes. I vote to keep the trade routes as they are for now, and maybe impliment a slow and gradual change. Having goods go through Danbar is a long and tedious journey."<br/><br/>He barely looked to the door when he heard Masako ask to enter. He waved her in, turning back to Prince Tansen. "Does that sound like a plan? Keep the trade routes the way they are for now." Let wars be a thing for his children's children to worry about.<br/><br/>He was about to bring up the items for trade when he heard a commotion outside. He looked up in time to see several Ritter Hex walking into the room. "What is it," Gavin asked.<br/><br/>"It's your father," one said.<br/><br/>************<br/><br/>"An assassination plot," the king wheezed. "Who? How?" He tried to get up, but started to gasp for breathe. He started to shake as it became evident that he couldn't breathe. The healer rushed forward, putting medicine down his throat. There was a silence before the king's labored breathing could be heard.<br/><br/>"He's alive, but I don't know when he'll wake up," the healer said. "This came as a shock to him. If he wakes up today, I suggest that his meetings are very short. And only if he is up for them."