Ballog suddenly came to a stop when someone suddenly stepped in front of him, seemingly out of nowhere but Ballog knew better than that. 'What a time for him to show up,' he thought with a grimace but kept the grin on his face just the same. Thaddeus Radiant, most definitely one of the most powerful people of the Empire due to his influence over the people outside the castle. If he wanted to he could rally the people together for a coup, one of the many ways to start one of the three scenarios in his mind.

His plan though would not allow for outside interference and he was somewhat glad to meet the man now as it served as a reminder to plan for any possible moves he may make. He had not studied politics and war strategy for years on end for nothing after all.

"It's nothing," he replied calmly but allowing a small bit of excitement to leak into his voice. "I've just received word that an old friend of mine will be arriving soon. I'm on my way to greet him right now. With all that has been happening recently it's quite a relief to be able to meet with a friend."

It wasn't the best excuse, he knew it, but it was the best chance he had at losing the man. He would have to make it seem interesting enough but not interesting enough for the man to want to accompany him. And with people like him it was best not to lie, at least not outright. Zoran was in the area and, seeing as he had been transfered to one of the outlying border camps years ago, not many people would know him or the fact that he and Ballog were quite close, not that the two normally reserved men showed it.

"Would you like to join us?" he asked Thaddeus, gesturing with his hand towards the hallway to his right which would lead towards the main gate. "I'm sure General Zoran wouldn't mind," he mentioned, grinning inwardly. Zoran was known to be quite a heavy drinker and was also known to frequent bars and the like. With that bit of information the cardinal would certainly decline. "He has been away for quite a few years now."

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