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Cicero eyed the man across the table from him speculatively. One arm lay across the wooden surface of the table, and in his long fingers he turned a coin idly. His lanky form was angled away from the man, but Cicero’s attention was most certainly not. He had heard much of Magnus of Chaossis, his counterpart in name from across the seas, but it was a novel opportunity to have the man in front of him.
The renegotiating of the peace treaties between the Grecian Kingdoms was really not more than a formality at this point, there was little debate, even from the Taengean counsel, who were usually so invested in arguing the toss. Cicero had rolled his eyes at even being asked to attend, until he had heard that the man before him would be making the journey from Colchis. Curiousity and a natural arrogance made him want to get a measure of the Colchian spymaster. They had communicated via missive now and again, but each was understandably keen to keep their own secrets. It would take a new level of trust to see them share freely.
Cicero wanted to be sure the man was not an idiot before he’d consider it.
Soon they would be joined by the various other note-takers and list-makers, and by their royal employers, but for now, in the meeting chamber of the Athenian palace it was just the two masters. Perhaps an occurence of Cicero’s design.
“You are Master Magnus of Chaossis” he said, after a few reaching moments of silence when the two eyed eachother over the table like very civilised alley-cats. “Eldest child of one Nifakis of Chaossis, a famed weaponsmith or so I hear. Welcome to Athenia, Master Magnus”
He’d done his homework on the man when he had first received written word from him , of course, but Cicero had enjoyed flexing his connections to see what else he could learn of the Colchian prior to his arrival. He had heard promising reports, and hoped he would not be disappointed now. It would be such a novelty to have someone he could consider his intellectual equal in the room.
There was no doubt the Colchian spymaster was a man people thought was good at his work. He also seemed to manufacture some affable personality when demanded, if what Cicero had gleaned from his sources was true. That, at least, was not a trait they shared. Cicero could hardly imagine the same being said of him if the Colchian had completed his due diligence with regards to the Athenian Master of Secrets.
Still, it would be beneficial to have eyes and ears in Colchis with some semblance of intelligence, and excusing any sensitive political information, then Cicero could envision many occassions where a cordiality between he and Magnus of Chaossis would prove lucrative. And so he waited not quite patiently for the man’s response, not liking the word eager, but intrigued as to what he would find in the man opposite.
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Cicero eyed the man across the table from him speculatively. One arm lay across the wooden surface of the table, and in his long fingers he turned a coin idly. His lanky form was angled away from the man, but Cicero’s attention was most certainly not. He had heard much of Magnus of Chaossis, his counterpart in name from across the seas, but it was a novel opportunity to have the man in front of him.
The renegotiating of the peace treaties between the Grecian Kingdoms was really not more than a formality at this point, there was little debate, even from the Taengean counsel, who were usually so invested in arguing the toss. Cicero had rolled his eyes at even being asked to attend, until he had heard that the man before him would be making the journey from Colchis. Curiousity and a natural arrogance made him want to get a measure of the Colchian spymaster. They had communicated via missive now and again, but each was understandably keen to keep their own secrets. It would take a new level of trust to see them share freely.
Cicero wanted to be sure the man was not an idiot before he’d consider it.
Soon they would be joined by the various other note-takers and list-makers, and by their royal employers, but for now, in the meeting chamber of the Athenian palace it was just the two masters. Perhaps an occurence of Cicero’s design.
“You are Master Magnus of Chaossis” he said, after a few reaching moments of silence when the two eyed eachother over the table like very civilised alley-cats. “Eldest child of one Nifakis of Chaossis, a famed weaponsmith or so I hear. Welcome to Athenia, Master Magnus”
He’d done his homework on the man when he had first received written word from him , of course, but Cicero had enjoyed flexing his connections to see what else he could learn of the Colchian prior to his arrival. He had heard promising reports, and hoped he would not be disappointed now. It would be such a novelty to have someone he could consider his intellectual equal in the room.
There was no doubt the Colchian spymaster was a man people thought was good at his work. He also seemed to manufacture some affable personality when demanded, if what Cicero had gleaned from his sources was true. That, at least, was not a trait they shared. Cicero could hardly imagine the same being said of him if the Colchian had completed his due diligence with regards to the Athenian Master of Secrets.
Still, it would be beneficial to have eyes and ears in Colchis with some semblance of intelligence, and excusing any sensitive political information, then Cicero could envision many occassions where a cordiality between he and Magnus of Chaossis would prove lucrative. And so he waited not quite patiently for the man’s response, not liking the word eager, but intrigued as to what he would find in the man opposite.
Cicero eyed the man across the table from him speculatively. One arm lay across the wooden surface of the table, and in his long fingers he turned a coin idly. His lanky form was angled away from the man, but Cicero’s attention was most certainly not. He had heard much of Magnus of Chaossis, his counterpart in name from across the seas, but it was a novel opportunity to have the man in front of him.
The renegotiating of the peace treaties between the Grecian Kingdoms was really not more than a formality at this point, there was little debate, even from the Taengean counsel, who were usually so invested in arguing the toss. Cicero had rolled his eyes at even being asked to attend, until he had heard that the man before him would be making the journey from Colchis. Curiousity and a natural arrogance made him want to get a measure of the Colchian spymaster. They had communicated via missive now and again, but each was understandably keen to keep their own secrets. It would take a new level of trust to see them share freely.
Cicero wanted to be sure the man was not an idiot before he’d consider it.
Soon they would be joined by the various other note-takers and list-makers, and by their royal employers, but for now, in the meeting chamber of the Athenian palace it was just the two masters. Perhaps an occurence of Cicero’s design.
“You are Master Magnus of Chaossis” he said, after a few reaching moments of silence when the two eyed eachother over the table like very civilised alley-cats. “Eldest child of one Nifakis of Chaossis, a famed weaponsmith or so I hear. Welcome to Athenia, Master Magnus”
He’d done his homework on the man when he had first received written word from him , of course, but Cicero had enjoyed flexing his connections to see what else he could learn of the Colchian prior to his arrival. He had heard promising reports, and hoped he would not be disappointed now. It would be such a novelty to have someone he could consider his intellectual equal in the room.
There was no doubt the Colchian spymaster was a man people thought was good at his work. He also seemed to manufacture some affable personality when demanded, if what Cicero had gleaned from his sources was true. That, at least, was not a trait they shared. Cicero could hardly imagine the same being said of him if the Colchian had completed his due diligence with regards to the Athenian Master of Secrets.
Still, it would be beneficial to have eyes and ears in Colchis with some semblance of intelligence, and excusing any sensitive political information, then Cicero could envision many occassions where a cordiality between he and Magnus of Chaossis would prove lucrative. And so he waited not quite patiently for the man’s response, not liking the word eager, but intrigued as to what he would find in the man opposite.
While many of the officials and administrators of kingdoms often worked together, be it to argue for details or to share information, the Master Informers of the three kingdoms rarely came together in one room. Afterall, the nature of their job meant they were rarely seen at all in general, but for something as large as the signing of a peace treaty, it was unavoidable, and it was why Magnus had been supposed to come with his mentor when Vassis of Midas, the current Master Informer of Colchis, joined the discussion.
However, the man had caught a bug and found himself quite unable to leave the bed the day of the journey and had instead reassured the royal entourage that Magnus was fully capable of handling such duties in his place. It was how young twenty-seven year old Magnus became the youngest attendee in the meeting chambers of the Athenian palati. While he felt out of place amongst the rest of the elder, far more experienced attendees, Magnus did not let it show. In his chiton of maroon and white, he was a picture of confidence as he mingled and spoke, his remarkable memory keeping notes mentally to tell Vassis when he eventually returned.
Even at this age and working as Vassis's mentor, Magnus already showed capability. It was why the old Master Informer had specifically picked Magnus to groom as his replacement. The man had a glib tongue but an eye for information, and he had many people indebted to him after years of working as a litigant that he was already slowly amassing his network of informants to be used in the future. As such, even before arriving at the meeting chambers, Magnus knew at least ninety percent on everyone who would be in attendance.
He had wanted to be there early, always the first but also due to the need to make sure he had everything necessary in place for the meet to proceed, but imagine the dark-haired male's surprise when he entered, and was already greeted by the Master Informer of Athenia himself, who Magnus quickly took a seat in front. But the silence stretched for just a moment longer before he spoke, and Magnus smiled smoothly at the words. "You have done your homework, Master Cicero of Aetola." the man responded, just as smoothly, his fingers toying with the rolled up parchments as he continued. "A graduate of the Scholeio where you spent far too much time at as a child. Son to Phoebe of Athenia... how is your wife, Master Cicero? Mistress Elysia is a fascinating lady." he drawled, a small smile quirking his lips. He's heard all about the supposed godly parentage of the illegitimate Argyris child in Athenia, but he had yet to meet the lady in question.
Anyone who walked in now would be able to cut the tension in the air with a knife. It wasn't as if neither Magnus nor Cicero had any beef with the other, but they were both in employment to the same jobscope, only loyalties lying to different kingdoms. This meeting is akin to two male lions sizing each other up, but to Magnus at least, he wanted to perhaps make an acquaintence out of the man. Afterall, it would be beneficial in the future should his acquaintenceship with the Master Informer of Athenia work out. "Thank you. The kingdom is a beautiful one." he paused, considering the man for a moment with steady eyes, before continuing, "I have heard many things of you, Master Cicero."
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While many of the officials and administrators of kingdoms often worked together, be it to argue for details or to share information, the Master Informers of the three kingdoms rarely came together in one room. Afterall, the nature of their job meant they were rarely seen at all in general, but for something as large as the signing of a peace treaty, it was unavoidable, and it was why Magnus had been supposed to come with his mentor when Vassis of Midas, the current Master Informer of Colchis, joined the discussion.
However, the man had caught a bug and found himself quite unable to leave the bed the day of the journey and had instead reassured the royal entourage that Magnus was fully capable of handling such duties in his place. It was how young twenty-seven year old Magnus became the youngest attendee in the meeting chambers of the Athenian palati. While he felt out of place amongst the rest of the elder, far more experienced attendees, Magnus did not let it show. In his chiton of maroon and white, he was a picture of confidence as he mingled and spoke, his remarkable memory keeping notes mentally to tell Vassis when he eventually returned.
Even at this age and working as Vassis's mentor, Magnus already showed capability. It was why the old Master Informer had specifically picked Magnus to groom as his replacement. The man had a glib tongue but an eye for information, and he had many people indebted to him after years of working as a litigant that he was already slowly amassing his network of informants to be used in the future. As such, even before arriving at the meeting chambers, Magnus knew at least ninety percent on everyone who would be in attendance.
He had wanted to be there early, always the first but also due to the need to make sure he had everything necessary in place for the meet to proceed, but imagine the dark-haired male's surprise when he entered, and was already greeted by the Master Informer of Athenia himself, who Magnus quickly took a seat in front. But the silence stretched for just a moment longer before he spoke, and Magnus smiled smoothly at the words. "You have done your homework, Master Cicero of Aetola." the man responded, just as smoothly, his fingers toying with the rolled up parchments as he continued. "A graduate of the Scholeio where you spent far too much time at as a child. Son to Phoebe of Athenia... how is your wife, Master Cicero? Mistress Elysia is a fascinating lady." he drawled, a small smile quirking his lips. He's heard all about the supposed godly parentage of the illegitimate Argyris child in Athenia, but he had yet to meet the lady in question.
Anyone who walked in now would be able to cut the tension in the air with a knife. It wasn't as if neither Magnus nor Cicero had any beef with the other, but they were both in employment to the same jobscope, only loyalties lying to different kingdoms. This meeting is akin to two male lions sizing each other up, but to Magnus at least, he wanted to perhaps make an acquaintence out of the man. Afterall, it would be beneficial in the future should his acquaintenceship with the Master Informer of Athenia work out. "Thank you. The kingdom is a beautiful one." he paused, considering the man for a moment with steady eyes, before continuing, "I have heard many things of you, Master Cicero."
While many of the officials and administrators of kingdoms often worked together, be it to argue for details or to share information, the Master Informers of the three kingdoms rarely came together in one room. Afterall, the nature of their job meant they were rarely seen at all in general, but for something as large as the signing of a peace treaty, it was unavoidable, and it was why Magnus had been supposed to come with his mentor when Vassis of Midas, the current Master Informer of Colchis, joined the discussion.
However, the man had caught a bug and found himself quite unable to leave the bed the day of the journey and had instead reassured the royal entourage that Magnus was fully capable of handling such duties in his place. It was how young twenty-seven year old Magnus became the youngest attendee in the meeting chambers of the Athenian palati. While he felt out of place amongst the rest of the elder, far more experienced attendees, Magnus did not let it show. In his chiton of maroon and white, he was a picture of confidence as he mingled and spoke, his remarkable memory keeping notes mentally to tell Vassis when he eventually returned.
Even at this age and working as Vassis's mentor, Magnus already showed capability. It was why the old Master Informer had specifically picked Magnus to groom as his replacement. The man had a glib tongue but an eye for information, and he had many people indebted to him after years of working as a litigant that he was already slowly amassing his network of informants to be used in the future. As such, even before arriving at the meeting chambers, Magnus knew at least ninety percent on everyone who would be in attendance.
He had wanted to be there early, always the first but also due to the need to make sure he had everything necessary in place for the meet to proceed, but imagine the dark-haired male's surprise when he entered, and was already greeted by the Master Informer of Athenia himself, who Magnus quickly took a seat in front. But the silence stretched for just a moment longer before he spoke, and Magnus smiled smoothly at the words. "You have done your homework, Master Cicero of Aetola." the man responded, just as smoothly, his fingers toying with the rolled up parchments as he continued. "A graduate of the Scholeio where you spent far too much time at as a child. Son to Phoebe of Athenia... how is your wife, Master Cicero? Mistress Elysia is a fascinating lady." he drawled, a small smile quirking his lips. He's heard all about the supposed godly parentage of the illegitimate Argyris child in Athenia, but he had yet to meet the lady in question.
Anyone who walked in now would be able to cut the tension in the air with a knife. It wasn't as if neither Magnus nor Cicero had any beef with the other, but they were both in employment to the same jobscope, only loyalties lying to different kingdoms. This meeting is akin to two male lions sizing each other up, but to Magnus at least, he wanted to perhaps make an acquaintence out of the man. Afterall, it would be beneficial in the future should his acquaintenceship with the Master Informer of Athenia work out. "Thank you. The kingdom is a beautiful one." he paused, considering the man for a moment with steady eyes, before continuing, "I have heard many things of you, Master Cicero."
Cold blue, almost silvery eyes regarded the Cochian man as he entered the chamber and took a seat, Cicero giving him time to settle himself, and perhaps enough silence just to edge into discomfort before he spoke. There was nothing particularly loaded in the small snippets of information he casually threw out, nothing that had required any real digging. Still Cicero saw it as a deck of cards. Master Magnus’s deck, and he’d laid down a couple in preparation for a game.
When the younger man smiled, and remarked upon him having done his homework the Athenian spymaster sat back, idly flipped the coin he’d been toying with in his hands and then slipped it deftly into the money pouch at his belt. That was not homework. That was barely skimming the surface of what Cicero would look to establish about a contact if he were actually trying. But he could appreciate the fact that the man appreciated it. This was….promising.
His steepled fingers provided the resting point for his chin then, as he looked expectantly at Magnus, waiting.
"A graduate of the Scholeio where you spent far too much time at as a child. Son to Phoebe of Athenia... how is your wife, Master Cicero? Mistress Elysia is a fascinating lady."
The smile he offered in return was sharp like knives, and Cicero made a small ‘hmmm’ in the back of his throat. On one hand, this was good, a riposte and one that showed the younger man had at least made some efforts to find out about him also. But Cicero was not overly keen on hearing his wife’s name fall from the other’s lips, no matter how obvious a connection it was to call upon. His voice remained as expressionless as ever as he replied.
“Good. good” he mused upon the man’s response, not precisely forming an answer but making words nevertheless, as was the custom in conversation. The blithe flattery about the beauty of Athenia was just that too. A customary offering, no meaning, no value, and so it was mostly ignored. And when the Colchian man spoke again, there was a bark of laughter from the older of the two.
“I should be most disappointed if you had not, Master Magnus. It is a byproduct of being rather brilliant you see.” He leant forward abruptly, gaze narrowing and that sharkisk smile returning. “But please, do go on. I may correct you where you are wrong. Or maybe not. That is part of the fun after all, isn’t it?"
There was a certain fascination in seeing which of his whispers had taken hold. Despite his own predeliction for knowing everything, Cicero was not so keen on people at large having an understanding of him, or thinking that they did. So every so often he would plant a little story of his own to get mixed up with those accounts of his arrogance, or awkwardness, or whatever else those of lesser intelligence used to explain his eccentricities.
After a moment though, the Athenian spymaster shone the light back upon the visitor, tilting his head a little as he asked "Where is your esteemed colleague though? Delighted as I am to meet his prodigy, I hope he is well?"
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Cold blue, almost silvery eyes regarded the Cochian man as he entered the chamber and took a seat, Cicero giving him time to settle himself, and perhaps enough silence just to edge into discomfort before he spoke. There was nothing particularly loaded in the small snippets of information he casually threw out, nothing that had required any real digging. Still Cicero saw it as a deck of cards. Master Magnus’s deck, and he’d laid down a couple in preparation for a game.
When the younger man smiled, and remarked upon him having done his homework the Athenian spymaster sat back, idly flipped the coin he’d been toying with in his hands and then slipped it deftly into the money pouch at his belt. That was not homework. That was barely skimming the surface of what Cicero would look to establish about a contact if he were actually trying. But he could appreciate the fact that the man appreciated it. This was….promising.
His steepled fingers provided the resting point for his chin then, as he looked expectantly at Magnus, waiting.
"A graduate of the Scholeio where you spent far too much time at as a child. Son to Phoebe of Athenia... how is your wife, Master Cicero? Mistress Elysia is a fascinating lady."
The smile he offered in return was sharp like knives, and Cicero made a small ‘hmmm’ in the back of his throat. On one hand, this was good, a riposte and one that showed the younger man had at least made some efforts to find out about him also. But Cicero was not overly keen on hearing his wife’s name fall from the other’s lips, no matter how obvious a connection it was to call upon. His voice remained as expressionless as ever as he replied.
“Good. good” he mused upon the man’s response, not precisely forming an answer but making words nevertheless, as was the custom in conversation. The blithe flattery about the beauty of Athenia was just that too. A customary offering, no meaning, no value, and so it was mostly ignored. And when the Colchian man spoke again, there was a bark of laughter from the older of the two.
“I should be most disappointed if you had not, Master Magnus. It is a byproduct of being rather brilliant you see.” He leant forward abruptly, gaze narrowing and that sharkisk smile returning. “But please, do go on. I may correct you where you are wrong. Or maybe not. That is part of the fun after all, isn’t it?"
There was a certain fascination in seeing which of his whispers had taken hold. Despite his own predeliction for knowing everything, Cicero was not so keen on people at large having an understanding of him, or thinking that they did. So every so often he would plant a little story of his own to get mixed up with those accounts of his arrogance, or awkwardness, or whatever else those of lesser intelligence used to explain his eccentricities.
After a moment though, the Athenian spymaster shone the light back upon the visitor, tilting his head a little as he asked "Where is your esteemed colleague though? Delighted as I am to meet his prodigy, I hope he is well?"
Cold blue, almost silvery eyes regarded the Cochian man as he entered the chamber and took a seat, Cicero giving him time to settle himself, and perhaps enough silence just to edge into discomfort before he spoke. There was nothing particularly loaded in the small snippets of information he casually threw out, nothing that had required any real digging. Still Cicero saw it as a deck of cards. Master Magnus’s deck, and he’d laid down a couple in preparation for a game.
When the younger man smiled, and remarked upon him having done his homework the Athenian spymaster sat back, idly flipped the coin he’d been toying with in his hands and then slipped it deftly into the money pouch at his belt. That was not homework. That was barely skimming the surface of what Cicero would look to establish about a contact if he were actually trying. But he could appreciate the fact that the man appreciated it. This was….promising.
His steepled fingers provided the resting point for his chin then, as he looked expectantly at Magnus, waiting.
"A graduate of the Scholeio where you spent far too much time at as a child. Son to Phoebe of Athenia... how is your wife, Master Cicero? Mistress Elysia is a fascinating lady."
The smile he offered in return was sharp like knives, and Cicero made a small ‘hmmm’ in the back of his throat. On one hand, this was good, a riposte and one that showed the younger man had at least made some efforts to find out about him also. But Cicero was not overly keen on hearing his wife’s name fall from the other’s lips, no matter how obvious a connection it was to call upon. His voice remained as expressionless as ever as he replied.
“Good. good” he mused upon the man’s response, not precisely forming an answer but making words nevertheless, as was the custom in conversation. The blithe flattery about the beauty of Athenia was just that too. A customary offering, no meaning, no value, and so it was mostly ignored. And when the Colchian man spoke again, there was a bark of laughter from the older of the two.
“I should be most disappointed if you had not, Master Magnus. It is a byproduct of being rather brilliant you see.” He leant forward abruptly, gaze narrowing and that sharkisk smile returning. “But please, do go on. I may correct you where you are wrong. Or maybe not. That is part of the fun after all, isn’t it?"
There was a certain fascination in seeing which of his whispers had taken hold. Despite his own predeliction for knowing everything, Cicero was not so keen on people at large having an understanding of him, or thinking that they did. So every so often he would plant a little story of his own to get mixed up with those accounts of his arrogance, or awkwardness, or whatever else those of lesser intelligence used to explain his eccentricities.
After a moment though, the Athenian spymaster shone the light back upon the visitor, tilting his head a little as he asked "Where is your esteemed colleague though? Delighted as I am to meet his prodigy, I hope he is well?"
Any action down by the Athenian spymaster was watched by Magnus's own warm brown eyes like a hawk. It was a habit of his, to always be watchful. As a kid, it was trained due to his having to watch over Leto and anything that may harm over, and as he grew up, he simply retained that beneficial habit and extended it to be watchful and observant to everyone in his peripheral vision.
Magnus raised a brow at Cicero's response. Was the other man sizing him up? He wasn't aware he came to be graded on how well he knew of the other's past, but he was the one who started it, and the dark-haired male was never afraid to take up an argument when necessary. Afterall, this was his first solo jaunt without his mentor, and he wanted to have plenty to report back.
A sharp bark of laughter came from Cicero's casual method of taking a compliment for himself, and for a moment, Magnus wondered if he should feel irritated or amused. Confidence was well placed when one earned it, but he did not know yet if Cicero was someone who earned the right. "That you are like a dog with a bone when it comes to certain matters? I'm not sure if its a compliment for many, but I suppose its necessary for men of our ilk, is it not?"
His voice had never went higher then a drawl, a cool and slow one as he drew idle patterns on the stone surface of the table they sat across. Magnus was seated in a lazy position, leaning back with his long legs crossed before him. His gaze never wandered far from Cicero, smiling at the next question. "Master Vassis has fallen ill, and his age does not permit him to travel when he is ill of health. He wishes you well however, and expresses his regret in being unable to meet you." the man paused, and then raised a brow questioningly. "Is there a message you wish me to pass over to him?" He was aware Vassis had made visits to Athenia before, but did not know that his mentor knew the other spymaster personally. There were many things yet Magnus was learning about his mentor, for afterall the Master Informer of Colchis had to retain his own air of mysteriousness, at least while his young mentee was still learning.
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Any action down by the Athenian spymaster was watched by Magnus's own warm brown eyes like a hawk. It was a habit of his, to always be watchful. As a kid, it was trained due to his having to watch over Leto and anything that may harm over, and as he grew up, he simply retained that beneficial habit and extended it to be watchful and observant to everyone in his peripheral vision.
Magnus raised a brow at Cicero's response. Was the other man sizing him up? He wasn't aware he came to be graded on how well he knew of the other's past, but he was the one who started it, and the dark-haired male was never afraid to take up an argument when necessary. Afterall, this was his first solo jaunt without his mentor, and he wanted to have plenty to report back.
A sharp bark of laughter came from Cicero's casual method of taking a compliment for himself, and for a moment, Magnus wondered if he should feel irritated or amused. Confidence was well placed when one earned it, but he did not know yet if Cicero was someone who earned the right. "That you are like a dog with a bone when it comes to certain matters? I'm not sure if its a compliment for many, but I suppose its necessary for men of our ilk, is it not?"
His voice had never went higher then a drawl, a cool and slow one as he drew idle patterns on the stone surface of the table they sat across. Magnus was seated in a lazy position, leaning back with his long legs crossed before him. His gaze never wandered far from Cicero, smiling at the next question. "Master Vassis has fallen ill, and his age does not permit him to travel when he is ill of health. He wishes you well however, and expresses his regret in being unable to meet you." the man paused, and then raised a brow questioningly. "Is there a message you wish me to pass over to him?" He was aware Vassis had made visits to Athenia before, but did not know that his mentor knew the other spymaster personally. There were many things yet Magnus was learning about his mentor, for afterall the Master Informer of Colchis had to retain his own air of mysteriousness, at least while his young mentee was still learning.
Any action down by the Athenian spymaster was watched by Magnus's own warm brown eyes like a hawk. It was a habit of his, to always be watchful. As a kid, it was trained due to his having to watch over Leto and anything that may harm over, and as he grew up, he simply retained that beneficial habit and extended it to be watchful and observant to everyone in his peripheral vision.
Magnus raised a brow at Cicero's response. Was the other man sizing him up? He wasn't aware he came to be graded on how well he knew of the other's past, but he was the one who started it, and the dark-haired male was never afraid to take up an argument when necessary. Afterall, this was his first solo jaunt without his mentor, and he wanted to have plenty to report back.
A sharp bark of laughter came from Cicero's casual method of taking a compliment for himself, and for a moment, Magnus wondered if he should feel irritated or amused. Confidence was well placed when one earned it, but he did not know yet if Cicero was someone who earned the right. "That you are like a dog with a bone when it comes to certain matters? I'm not sure if its a compliment for many, but I suppose its necessary for men of our ilk, is it not?"
His voice had never went higher then a drawl, a cool and slow one as he drew idle patterns on the stone surface of the table they sat across. Magnus was seated in a lazy position, leaning back with his long legs crossed before him. His gaze never wandered far from Cicero, smiling at the next question. "Master Vassis has fallen ill, and his age does not permit him to travel when he is ill of health. He wishes you well however, and expresses his regret in being unable to meet you." the man paused, and then raised a brow questioningly. "Is there a message you wish me to pass over to him?" He was aware Vassis had made visits to Athenia before, but did not know that his mentor knew the other spymaster personally. There were many things yet Magnus was learning about his mentor, for afterall the Master Informer of Colchis had to retain his own air of mysteriousness, at least while his young mentee was still learning.
If Magnus thought that Cicero was unaware of any of his actions or expressions, oblivious to how they might be taken, then he was grossly misinformed. There was very little the Athenian man did without some degree of intent. True, he might not always care how people chose to interpret those actions, but sometimes he did and so he was always aware. He did not doubt that the other man’s responses were similarly measured: one did not get ahead in their field without having the most simple control over one’s expression.
He matched the man’s lifted brow with one of his own and another tight-lipped smile at the fact that he was ‘like a dog with a bone’. “You suppose right, Master Magnus. And it is only those who have a fear of being found out that would view dedication as anything other than a thing to compliment a man upon”
Indeed, it was almost amusing how so many of those who mistrusted their line of work were those who worked so very hard to cover their own tracks. Those were the ones than Cicero enjoyed to bring down the most. It was the challenge
He wondered if it were that which had seen the man opposite him take such a path. He had been a litigator before, Cicero had noted in his earliest of fact-gathering about the younger Colchian. A man who could construct a good argument and could read people. Promising combination.
“Aah, but of course. Age will catch up with all of us eventually. And yes you may take a message to him. Tell him Cicero wishes him the most speedy of recoveries, but that he should not cling on for too long if the time has come to retire to the country and grow fat on too much wine and good meat. He has served his time”
Cicero sat back, folded his hands across his abdomen and looked at Magnus straight on “Afterall, he has you coming up at his heels does he not?” The man sighed wistfully. “It is almost a shame we haven’t something more interesting to be discussing than peace treaties. If there is one thing I have found it is that people generally don't like many secrets when it comes to peace treaties.”
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If Magnus thought that Cicero was unaware of any of his actions or expressions, oblivious to how they might be taken, then he was grossly misinformed. There was very little the Athenian man did without some degree of intent. True, he might not always care how people chose to interpret those actions, but sometimes he did and so he was always aware. He did not doubt that the other man’s responses were similarly measured: one did not get ahead in their field without having the most simple control over one’s expression.
He matched the man’s lifted brow with one of his own and another tight-lipped smile at the fact that he was ‘like a dog with a bone’. “You suppose right, Master Magnus. And it is only those who have a fear of being found out that would view dedication as anything other than a thing to compliment a man upon”
Indeed, it was almost amusing how so many of those who mistrusted their line of work were those who worked so very hard to cover their own tracks. Those were the ones than Cicero enjoyed to bring down the most. It was the challenge
He wondered if it were that which had seen the man opposite him take such a path. He had been a litigator before, Cicero had noted in his earliest of fact-gathering about the younger Colchian. A man who could construct a good argument and could read people. Promising combination.
“Aah, but of course. Age will catch up with all of us eventually. And yes you may take a message to him. Tell him Cicero wishes him the most speedy of recoveries, but that he should not cling on for too long if the time has come to retire to the country and grow fat on too much wine and good meat. He has served his time”
Cicero sat back, folded his hands across his abdomen and looked at Magnus straight on “Afterall, he has you coming up at his heels does he not?” The man sighed wistfully. “It is almost a shame we haven’t something more interesting to be discussing than peace treaties. If there is one thing I have found it is that people generally don't like many secrets when it comes to peace treaties.”
If Magnus thought that Cicero was unaware of any of his actions or expressions, oblivious to how they might be taken, then he was grossly misinformed. There was very little the Athenian man did without some degree of intent. True, he might not always care how people chose to interpret those actions, but sometimes he did and so he was always aware. He did not doubt that the other man’s responses were similarly measured: one did not get ahead in their field without having the most simple control over one’s expression.
He matched the man’s lifted brow with one of his own and another tight-lipped smile at the fact that he was ‘like a dog with a bone’. “You suppose right, Master Magnus. And it is only those who have a fear of being found out that would view dedication as anything other than a thing to compliment a man upon”
Indeed, it was almost amusing how so many of those who mistrusted their line of work were those who worked so very hard to cover their own tracks. Those were the ones than Cicero enjoyed to bring down the most. It was the challenge
He wondered if it were that which had seen the man opposite him take such a path. He had been a litigator before, Cicero had noted in his earliest of fact-gathering about the younger Colchian. A man who could construct a good argument and could read people. Promising combination.
“Aah, but of course. Age will catch up with all of us eventually. And yes you may take a message to him. Tell him Cicero wishes him the most speedy of recoveries, but that he should not cling on for too long if the time has come to retire to the country and grow fat on too much wine and good meat. He has served his time”
Cicero sat back, folded his hands across his abdomen and looked at Magnus straight on “Afterall, he has you coming up at his heels does he not?” The man sighed wistfully. “It is almost a shame we haven’t something more interesting to be discussing than peace treaties. If there is one thing I have found it is that people generally don't like many secrets when it comes to peace treaties.”
He hummed a little at the other's respose, but to a certain extent, he had to go with what the Athenian had said, and nodded slowly to show it. Afterall, Magnus would not have gotten anywhere in his career or in his ambitions had he not chased after it with dogged determination. It was just that the Colchian was more subtle in his ways, preferring butter and smooth smiles to get what he wanted, instead of barging in like a bull in a pottery shop.
Yet of everyone in all the three kingdoms of Greece, it was likely this man who would understand most, the ways in which they operated and worked. Their jobs as Master Informers (or would be, in Magnus's case) meant that they would have to operate both as the most trustworthy ones, and the most untrusted ones in the kingdom. But information could be bought, and Magnus was not spared from that. Yet, he trusted information which was not purchased, but given freely, for those were the most reliable of all.
Listening with a quirked eyebrow at the message he was to relay, Magnus's eyes widened in the most infestimal of inches, as he blinked, and then responded. "That is true. If there were secrets, I doubt we would be here to sign a peace treaty to begin with." he murmured in response, paused to allow silence linger for a little, before he continued. "Although I doubt Master Vassis would appreciate that you do not think him well enough to continue his duties." A small smile ghosted his lips, as maids streamed in to begin serving chalices of wine at each of the seats. Surely, the other's would arrive soon.
"I'm certain my mentor believes himsale capable of many years still, but I shall relay your message as such. Perhaps he may write to you." The man murmured, picking up the chalice and flashing the servant girl a charming smile, hiding a laugh when the nubile young slave simpered and quickly walked away. He took a sip of the wine, and then held his goblet up in toast to the Athenian. "He thinks me inept yet, but then again, he thinks that of everyone. I'm glad you see me capable to take over his position though, for that I thank you, Master Cicero." A laughable statement, for if the way Magnus postured himself was in anyway a clue, he didn't doubt his own capability to handle his soon to be duties as Master Informer for even a second.
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He hummed a little at the other's respose, but to a certain extent, he had to go with what the Athenian had said, and nodded slowly to show it. Afterall, Magnus would not have gotten anywhere in his career or in his ambitions had he not chased after it with dogged determination. It was just that the Colchian was more subtle in his ways, preferring butter and smooth smiles to get what he wanted, instead of barging in like a bull in a pottery shop.
Yet of everyone in all the three kingdoms of Greece, it was likely this man who would understand most, the ways in which they operated and worked. Their jobs as Master Informers (or would be, in Magnus's case) meant that they would have to operate both as the most trustworthy ones, and the most untrusted ones in the kingdom. But information could be bought, and Magnus was not spared from that. Yet, he trusted information which was not purchased, but given freely, for those were the most reliable of all.
Listening with a quirked eyebrow at the message he was to relay, Magnus's eyes widened in the most infestimal of inches, as he blinked, and then responded. "That is true. If there were secrets, I doubt we would be here to sign a peace treaty to begin with." he murmured in response, paused to allow silence linger for a little, before he continued. "Although I doubt Master Vassis would appreciate that you do not think him well enough to continue his duties." A small smile ghosted his lips, as maids streamed in to begin serving chalices of wine at each of the seats. Surely, the other's would arrive soon.
"I'm certain my mentor believes himsale capable of many years still, but I shall relay your message as such. Perhaps he may write to you." The man murmured, picking up the chalice and flashing the servant girl a charming smile, hiding a laugh when the nubile young slave simpered and quickly walked away. He took a sip of the wine, and then held his goblet up in toast to the Athenian. "He thinks me inept yet, but then again, he thinks that of everyone. I'm glad you see me capable to take over his position though, for that I thank you, Master Cicero." A laughable statement, for if the way Magnus postured himself was in anyway a clue, he didn't doubt his own capability to handle his soon to be duties as Master Informer for even a second.
He hummed a little at the other's respose, but to a certain extent, he had to go with what the Athenian had said, and nodded slowly to show it. Afterall, Magnus would not have gotten anywhere in his career or in his ambitions had he not chased after it with dogged determination. It was just that the Colchian was more subtle in his ways, preferring butter and smooth smiles to get what he wanted, instead of barging in like a bull in a pottery shop.
Yet of everyone in all the three kingdoms of Greece, it was likely this man who would understand most, the ways in which they operated and worked. Their jobs as Master Informers (or would be, in Magnus's case) meant that they would have to operate both as the most trustworthy ones, and the most untrusted ones in the kingdom. But information could be bought, and Magnus was not spared from that. Yet, he trusted information which was not purchased, but given freely, for those were the most reliable of all.
Listening with a quirked eyebrow at the message he was to relay, Magnus's eyes widened in the most infestimal of inches, as he blinked, and then responded. "That is true. If there were secrets, I doubt we would be here to sign a peace treaty to begin with." he murmured in response, paused to allow silence linger for a little, before he continued. "Although I doubt Master Vassis would appreciate that you do not think him well enough to continue his duties." A small smile ghosted his lips, as maids streamed in to begin serving chalices of wine at each of the seats. Surely, the other's would arrive soon.
"I'm certain my mentor believes himsale capable of many years still, but I shall relay your message as such. Perhaps he may write to you." The man murmured, picking up the chalice and flashing the servant girl a charming smile, hiding a laugh when the nubile young slave simpered and quickly walked away. He took a sip of the wine, and then held his goblet up in toast to the Athenian. "He thinks me inept yet, but then again, he thinks that of everyone. I'm glad you see me capable to take over his position though, for that I thank you, Master Cicero." A laughable statement, for if the way Magnus postured himself was in anyway a clue, he didn't doubt his own capability to handle his soon to be duties as Master Informer for even a second.
Cicero twisted his thumbs around one another idly, considered how dull the world would be without secrets. Never mind the fact that he would be without a rather lucrative career path. Still, it was one of the rather droll necessities of the job: Cicero had already been through the papers in great depth to ensure there was nothing he considered untowards hidden as a subtle appendix or a poorly veiled amendment. His attendance here today was a mere formality, a show that Athenia was taking the treaties seriously, even if they were just extending an existing arrangement.
But it had been an opportunity to lay eyes on this young and upcoming from Colchis and that almost made it worth his while. Cicero gave a laugh at the notion that Vassis might be offended at his words, that had been rather the intent. Trading the occasional jibe had become habit, but he supposed Master Magnus was not to know such a thing.
“Oh I’m sure he won’t” he said dismissively, waving a hand. “And I’m sure you will enjoy hearing all about it even if he does send a letter.
The Athenian spymaster accepted a cup of wine, and did not so much cut his eyes towards the servant girl. She was a rather dim thing, the one time he had tried to use her to gain some insight into movements around the palati she had proven next to useless. Smiles were better kept for when they were not wasted, but of course, his visitor would not know that.
“Yes well, capable is perhaps a strong word, Master Magnus, but I have seen little to suggest you are inept thus far. So take that how you will, no thanks necessary.” Lifting his cup in return, he eyed the Colchian steadily over the rim,taking a long sip before returning the cup to the table with a decisive thunk.
“As you are here though, I wonder if you might be willing to assist me with a matter of interest. There have been a number of incidents of piracy reported as of late, and these people do not, contrary to popular opinion, spend their entire lives at sea. They must make port often enough. I have a number of vessels I am..keeping an eye on shall we say, but I would be interested in seeing if we cannot come to some agreement to share such intelligence between our kingdoms. Where a problem is unlikely to be localised, if you see my meaning?”
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Cicero twisted his thumbs around one another idly, considered how dull the world would be without secrets. Never mind the fact that he would be without a rather lucrative career path. Still, it was one of the rather droll necessities of the job: Cicero had already been through the papers in great depth to ensure there was nothing he considered untowards hidden as a subtle appendix or a poorly veiled amendment. His attendance here today was a mere formality, a show that Athenia was taking the treaties seriously, even if they were just extending an existing arrangement.
But it had been an opportunity to lay eyes on this young and upcoming from Colchis and that almost made it worth his while. Cicero gave a laugh at the notion that Vassis might be offended at his words, that had been rather the intent. Trading the occasional jibe had become habit, but he supposed Master Magnus was not to know such a thing.
“Oh I’m sure he won’t” he said dismissively, waving a hand. “And I’m sure you will enjoy hearing all about it even if he does send a letter.
The Athenian spymaster accepted a cup of wine, and did not so much cut his eyes towards the servant girl. She was a rather dim thing, the one time he had tried to use her to gain some insight into movements around the palati she had proven next to useless. Smiles were better kept for when they were not wasted, but of course, his visitor would not know that.
“Yes well, capable is perhaps a strong word, Master Magnus, but I have seen little to suggest you are inept thus far. So take that how you will, no thanks necessary.” Lifting his cup in return, he eyed the Colchian steadily over the rim,taking a long sip before returning the cup to the table with a decisive thunk.
“As you are here though, I wonder if you might be willing to assist me with a matter of interest. There have been a number of incidents of piracy reported as of late, and these people do not, contrary to popular opinion, spend their entire lives at sea. They must make port often enough. I have a number of vessels I am..keeping an eye on shall we say, but I would be interested in seeing if we cannot come to some agreement to share such intelligence between our kingdoms. Where a problem is unlikely to be localised, if you see my meaning?”
Cicero twisted his thumbs around one another idly, considered how dull the world would be without secrets. Never mind the fact that he would be without a rather lucrative career path. Still, it was one of the rather droll necessities of the job: Cicero had already been through the papers in great depth to ensure there was nothing he considered untowards hidden as a subtle appendix or a poorly veiled amendment. His attendance here today was a mere formality, a show that Athenia was taking the treaties seriously, even if they were just extending an existing arrangement.
But it had been an opportunity to lay eyes on this young and upcoming from Colchis and that almost made it worth his while. Cicero gave a laugh at the notion that Vassis might be offended at his words, that had been rather the intent. Trading the occasional jibe had become habit, but he supposed Master Magnus was not to know such a thing.
“Oh I’m sure he won’t” he said dismissively, waving a hand. “And I’m sure you will enjoy hearing all about it even if he does send a letter.
The Athenian spymaster accepted a cup of wine, and did not so much cut his eyes towards the servant girl. She was a rather dim thing, the one time he had tried to use her to gain some insight into movements around the palati she had proven next to useless. Smiles were better kept for when they were not wasted, but of course, his visitor would not know that.
“Yes well, capable is perhaps a strong word, Master Magnus, but I have seen little to suggest you are inept thus far. So take that how you will, no thanks necessary.” Lifting his cup in return, he eyed the Colchian steadily over the rim,taking a long sip before returning the cup to the table with a decisive thunk.
“As you are here though, I wonder if you might be willing to assist me with a matter of interest. There have been a number of incidents of piracy reported as of late, and these people do not, contrary to popular opinion, spend their entire lives at sea. They must make port often enough. I have a number of vessels I am..keeping an eye on shall we say, but I would be interested in seeing if we cannot come to some agreement to share such intelligence between our kingdoms. Where a problem is unlikely to be localised, if you see my meaning?”
The Athenian spymaster had a point. To a certain extent, his mentor was getting on in age, and while it did not dull his senses and ability to perform his job, it does make the old man crochety. Magnus was realizing he's had to listen to Vassis complain and pick on many more things then he used to, but Magnus still had much to learn and did not allow such small things to affect his performance on his job. He had to earn his position as his mentor's most prized assistant, if he wanted that job he had his eye on.
Waiting till the nubile young servant went off after ensuring the rest of the chalices were laid out to where the rest of the royal advisors would be seated once they arrive, Magnus took his long drink of his own served wine,smiling when he tasted the hints of it from Taengea's own prized crop of wine. It was obvious that the Taengean party arrived with peace treaty gifts of their own. Colchis had brought weapons smithed from their finest weaponsmiths, but it was no surprise that Taengea would bring the drinks and food to this supposed 'party'.
Still, it was a good chance to taste the famed brew from the vineyard of the Condos family. He's only had the chance to taste it once, but it was a memorable taste that he would not be able to forget.
Quirking his brow when Cicero eventually broached the issue he had on hand, Magnus's mind was quick to work. He was privy to much information, both from being Vasiss' right hand man, but also from his many years as a litigator which earned him many informants. Much of his information bank came from commoners who worked on ports, docks, and even the underbelly of the city, who came to tell him purely due to a debt they owed him and out of their trust in him. A connection bought far more information then coin would, in his opinion.
"I understand, Master Cicero." he murmured, mulling upon the decision for a moment as he swirled the red liquid in his chalice, before responding. "The ports of Colchis are inhabited by our people, who I'm sure you know are hardy as they are fighters." he murmured. Raised among the arid and rocky regions of Colchis, many Colchians were unafraid to go down fighting. But while Magnus understood the importance of such information being shared, he didn't want to appear too eager, that is. "But I see your point," he eventually conceded, after a brief silence. "Perhaps... you could tell me of the vessels you have been keeping track of? And we can see if our informations match."
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The Athenian spymaster had a point. To a certain extent, his mentor was getting on in age, and while it did not dull his senses and ability to perform his job, it does make the old man crochety. Magnus was realizing he's had to listen to Vassis complain and pick on many more things then he used to, but Magnus still had much to learn and did not allow such small things to affect his performance on his job. He had to earn his position as his mentor's most prized assistant, if he wanted that job he had his eye on.
Waiting till the nubile young servant went off after ensuring the rest of the chalices were laid out to where the rest of the royal advisors would be seated once they arrive, Magnus took his long drink of his own served wine,smiling when he tasted the hints of it from Taengea's own prized crop of wine. It was obvious that the Taengean party arrived with peace treaty gifts of their own. Colchis had brought weapons smithed from their finest weaponsmiths, but it was no surprise that Taengea would bring the drinks and food to this supposed 'party'.
Still, it was a good chance to taste the famed brew from the vineyard of the Condos family. He's only had the chance to taste it once, but it was a memorable taste that he would not be able to forget.
Quirking his brow when Cicero eventually broached the issue he had on hand, Magnus's mind was quick to work. He was privy to much information, both from being Vasiss' right hand man, but also from his many years as a litigator which earned him many informants. Much of his information bank came from commoners who worked on ports, docks, and even the underbelly of the city, who came to tell him purely due to a debt they owed him and out of their trust in him. A connection bought far more information then coin would, in his opinion.
"I understand, Master Cicero." he murmured, mulling upon the decision for a moment as he swirled the red liquid in his chalice, before responding. "The ports of Colchis are inhabited by our people, who I'm sure you know are hardy as they are fighters." he murmured. Raised among the arid and rocky regions of Colchis, many Colchians were unafraid to go down fighting. But while Magnus understood the importance of such information being shared, he didn't want to appear too eager, that is. "But I see your point," he eventually conceded, after a brief silence. "Perhaps... you could tell me of the vessels you have been keeping track of? And we can see if our informations match."
The Athenian spymaster had a point. To a certain extent, his mentor was getting on in age, and while it did not dull his senses and ability to perform his job, it does make the old man crochety. Magnus was realizing he's had to listen to Vassis complain and pick on many more things then he used to, but Magnus still had much to learn and did not allow such small things to affect his performance on his job. He had to earn his position as his mentor's most prized assistant, if he wanted that job he had his eye on.
Waiting till the nubile young servant went off after ensuring the rest of the chalices were laid out to where the rest of the royal advisors would be seated once they arrive, Magnus took his long drink of his own served wine,smiling when he tasted the hints of it from Taengea's own prized crop of wine. It was obvious that the Taengean party arrived with peace treaty gifts of their own. Colchis had brought weapons smithed from their finest weaponsmiths, but it was no surprise that Taengea would bring the drinks and food to this supposed 'party'.
Still, it was a good chance to taste the famed brew from the vineyard of the Condos family. He's only had the chance to taste it once, but it was a memorable taste that he would not be able to forget.
Quirking his brow when Cicero eventually broached the issue he had on hand, Magnus's mind was quick to work. He was privy to much information, both from being Vasiss' right hand man, but also from his many years as a litigator which earned him many informants. Much of his information bank came from commoners who worked on ports, docks, and even the underbelly of the city, who came to tell him purely due to a debt they owed him and out of their trust in him. A connection bought far more information then coin would, in his opinion.
"I understand, Master Cicero." he murmured, mulling upon the decision for a moment as he swirled the red liquid in his chalice, before responding. "The ports of Colchis are inhabited by our people, who I'm sure you know are hardy as they are fighters." he murmured. Raised among the arid and rocky regions of Colchis, many Colchians were unafraid to go down fighting. But while Magnus understood the importance of such information being shared, he didn't want to appear too eager, that is. "But I see your point," he eventually conceded, after a brief silence. "Perhaps... you could tell me of the vessels you have been keeping track of? And we can see if our informations match."
Cicero paid no heed to the serving staff. His focus lay with the man across the table, as he watched his suggestion be processed. He blinked steadily at the Colchian man as he offered his considered response to that first tentative suggestion of cooperation. He would have been sorely disappointed if there had not been careful thought put behind the man’s answer, and yet there was a trace of amusement for a moment before he smoothed his expression and drummed his long fingers upon the tabletop. The man must think himself dealing with an amateur if he thought such an agreement would be palatable to Athenia.
“Well now, Master Magnus. That sounds awfully like showing my hand whilst you keep your own cards nice and close to your chest, and that is hardly fair now is it?” He raised a finger to his lips as he was silent for a moment, mulling over what might present a more satisfactory arrangement. He could understand the reluctance to impart hard-won intelligence, to just hand it over to another kingdom entirely. But the strategic possibilities that such cooperation offered were enough to entice him to set aside that inherent want to horde such knowledge.
Sitting upright suddenly, he set both elbows on the table and rested his chin on his folded hands. “Assuming you are keeping an eye on vessels of interest, then perhaps we might make a straight exchange of the records we hold?” he proposed, watching the Colchian man intently. “I can then obviously keep you apprised of any pertinent changes to the situation and you can do likewise”
He was very still as he let the offer permeate. It would be beneficial to both of them he was certain, and really, it was nothing particularly sensitive. A nice trial, one might say, that would make or break the likelihood of any such future such collaboration. He pushed to his feet and went to stand by the open shuttered window that looked out over the bay, where even now, many sails could be seen. Athenia’s shipping routes were varied and prosperous, it was an ongoing pressure from the Crown for Cicero to stay on top of threats to seafarers that sailed their waters. It would make his life easier if this arrangement could just go through. But perhaps he was speaking to the wrong man?
“I do not expect you to make any such decision by yourself. If it suits better I can send a letter back with you to your mentor.” Cicero added in an offhand manner. Maybe it was too much to ask of the stand-in, afterall.
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Cicero paid no heed to the serving staff. His focus lay with the man across the table, as he watched his suggestion be processed. He blinked steadily at the Colchian man as he offered his considered response to that first tentative suggestion of cooperation. He would have been sorely disappointed if there had not been careful thought put behind the man’s answer, and yet there was a trace of amusement for a moment before he smoothed his expression and drummed his long fingers upon the tabletop. The man must think himself dealing with an amateur if he thought such an agreement would be palatable to Athenia.
“Well now, Master Magnus. That sounds awfully like showing my hand whilst you keep your own cards nice and close to your chest, and that is hardly fair now is it?” He raised a finger to his lips as he was silent for a moment, mulling over what might present a more satisfactory arrangement. He could understand the reluctance to impart hard-won intelligence, to just hand it over to another kingdom entirely. But the strategic possibilities that such cooperation offered were enough to entice him to set aside that inherent want to horde such knowledge.
Sitting upright suddenly, he set both elbows on the table and rested his chin on his folded hands. “Assuming you are keeping an eye on vessels of interest, then perhaps we might make a straight exchange of the records we hold?” he proposed, watching the Colchian man intently. “I can then obviously keep you apprised of any pertinent changes to the situation and you can do likewise”
He was very still as he let the offer permeate. It would be beneficial to both of them he was certain, and really, it was nothing particularly sensitive. A nice trial, one might say, that would make or break the likelihood of any such future such collaboration. He pushed to his feet and went to stand by the open shuttered window that looked out over the bay, where even now, many sails could be seen. Athenia’s shipping routes were varied and prosperous, it was an ongoing pressure from the Crown for Cicero to stay on top of threats to seafarers that sailed their waters. It would make his life easier if this arrangement could just go through. But perhaps he was speaking to the wrong man?
“I do not expect you to make any such decision by yourself. If it suits better I can send a letter back with you to your mentor.” Cicero added in an offhand manner. Maybe it was too much to ask of the stand-in, afterall.
Cicero paid no heed to the serving staff. His focus lay with the man across the table, as he watched his suggestion be processed. He blinked steadily at the Colchian man as he offered his considered response to that first tentative suggestion of cooperation. He would have been sorely disappointed if there had not been careful thought put behind the man’s answer, and yet there was a trace of amusement for a moment before he smoothed his expression and drummed his long fingers upon the tabletop. The man must think himself dealing with an amateur if he thought such an agreement would be palatable to Athenia.
“Well now, Master Magnus. That sounds awfully like showing my hand whilst you keep your own cards nice and close to your chest, and that is hardly fair now is it?” He raised a finger to his lips as he was silent for a moment, mulling over what might present a more satisfactory arrangement. He could understand the reluctance to impart hard-won intelligence, to just hand it over to another kingdom entirely. But the strategic possibilities that such cooperation offered were enough to entice him to set aside that inherent want to horde such knowledge.
Sitting upright suddenly, he set both elbows on the table and rested his chin on his folded hands. “Assuming you are keeping an eye on vessels of interest, then perhaps we might make a straight exchange of the records we hold?” he proposed, watching the Colchian man intently. “I can then obviously keep you apprised of any pertinent changes to the situation and you can do likewise”
He was very still as he let the offer permeate. It would be beneficial to both of them he was certain, and really, it was nothing particularly sensitive. A nice trial, one might say, that would make or break the likelihood of any such future such collaboration. He pushed to his feet and went to stand by the open shuttered window that looked out over the bay, where even now, many sails could be seen. Athenia’s shipping routes were varied and prosperous, it was an ongoing pressure from the Crown for Cicero to stay on top of threats to seafarers that sailed their waters. It would make his life easier if this arrangement could just go through. But perhaps he was speaking to the wrong man?
“I do not expect you to make any such decision by yourself. If it suits better I can send a letter back with you to your mentor.” Cicero added in an offhand manner. Maybe it was too much to ask of the stand-in, afterall.
Part of why his mentor had offered and brought Magnus in was how observant the man was. Vassis had seen how the smallest information could not escape Magnus's attention, and had spent the last few years honing his talent. A man capable of multi-tasking and still performing each task to perfection, Magnus caught many details in split seconds, and it was that which made him invaluable first as a litigant, and then as the Master Informer's right hand. Of course, he did not expect the Athenian spymaster to just fall into his question, and would perhaps question the decision of the Athenian royals on their choice of Master Informer had he done that.
So instead, Magnus smiled at Cicero's response to his own counter offer, already half expecting such an answer. It was exactly how he would've responded himself, afterall. Raising a brow when Cicero suddenly seemed extra interested in it, he listened with rapt attention at the response of the other man, and finishing which, Magnus pondered for a brief moment, before he finally nodded slowly. "That is a fair exchange." he murmured softly, slowly considering many avenues of possibility should he agree to such an exchange. His mentor trusted him to make decisions, but Magnus was someone who thought of all possibilities before he decided upon something.
Watching as the man observed the passage of ships in the Athenian harbor from their vantage point in the meeting chambers, Magnus raised a brow when the man offhandedly almost insulted him. Should he take the bait? The dark-haired male was a calm character for the most time, and he rarely rose to anger. It would be a blow to his ego, but in the end Magnus decided it was not worth the time, and merely downed the remainder of his wine before nodding in finality to the man. "There isn't a need, Master Cicero. I'm sure my mentor would be very pleased with such an exchange." he responded finally, a glimmer of a challenge in his dark obsidian eyes. Did he think Magnus incapable? Perhaps he needed to reconsider.
"Our records are kept back in Colchis, for I saw no need to bring such matters here. I can however, make a copy for you, which can be handed over by the morrow. It has been committed to my memory." he replied nonchalantly, as if memorizing pages upon pages of information was something any normal person could do. Reaching out to grab the flagon of wine, he poured more into his chalice, topped up Cicero's own vessel of liquid, and then held it up in a manner that signalled a deal. "If it suits you, we can then meet tokmorrow for such an exchange? Seems very suited for a day after a peace treaty is signed between our kingdoms, it feels to me."
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Part of why his mentor had offered and brought Magnus in was how observant the man was. Vassis had seen how the smallest information could not escape Magnus's attention, and had spent the last few years honing his talent. A man capable of multi-tasking and still performing each task to perfection, Magnus caught many details in split seconds, and it was that which made him invaluable first as a litigant, and then as the Master Informer's right hand. Of course, he did not expect the Athenian spymaster to just fall into his question, and would perhaps question the decision of the Athenian royals on their choice of Master Informer had he done that.
So instead, Magnus smiled at Cicero's response to his own counter offer, already half expecting such an answer. It was exactly how he would've responded himself, afterall. Raising a brow when Cicero suddenly seemed extra interested in it, he listened with rapt attention at the response of the other man, and finishing which, Magnus pondered for a brief moment, before he finally nodded slowly. "That is a fair exchange." he murmured softly, slowly considering many avenues of possibility should he agree to such an exchange. His mentor trusted him to make decisions, but Magnus was someone who thought of all possibilities before he decided upon something.
Watching as the man observed the passage of ships in the Athenian harbor from their vantage point in the meeting chambers, Magnus raised a brow when the man offhandedly almost insulted him. Should he take the bait? The dark-haired male was a calm character for the most time, and he rarely rose to anger. It would be a blow to his ego, but in the end Magnus decided it was not worth the time, and merely downed the remainder of his wine before nodding in finality to the man. "There isn't a need, Master Cicero. I'm sure my mentor would be very pleased with such an exchange." he responded finally, a glimmer of a challenge in his dark obsidian eyes. Did he think Magnus incapable? Perhaps he needed to reconsider.
"Our records are kept back in Colchis, for I saw no need to bring such matters here. I can however, make a copy for you, which can be handed over by the morrow. It has been committed to my memory." he replied nonchalantly, as if memorizing pages upon pages of information was something any normal person could do. Reaching out to grab the flagon of wine, he poured more into his chalice, topped up Cicero's own vessel of liquid, and then held it up in a manner that signalled a deal. "If it suits you, we can then meet tokmorrow for such an exchange? Seems very suited for a day after a peace treaty is signed between our kingdoms, it feels to me."
Part of why his mentor had offered and brought Magnus in was how observant the man was. Vassis had seen how the smallest information could not escape Magnus's attention, and had spent the last few years honing his talent. A man capable of multi-tasking and still performing each task to perfection, Magnus caught many details in split seconds, and it was that which made him invaluable first as a litigant, and then as the Master Informer's right hand. Of course, he did not expect the Athenian spymaster to just fall into his question, and would perhaps question the decision of the Athenian royals on their choice of Master Informer had he done that.
So instead, Magnus smiled at Cicero's response to his own counter offer, already half expecting such an answer. It was exactly how he would've responded himself, afterall. Raising a brow when Cicero suddenly seemed extra interested in it, he listened with rapt attention at the response of the other man, and finishing which, Magnus pondered for a brief moment, before he finally nodded slowly. "That is a fair exchange." he murmured softly, slowly considering many avenues of possibility should he agree to such an exchange. His mentor trusted him to make decisions, but Magnus was someone who thought of all possibilities before he decided upon something.
Watching as the man observed the passage of ships in the Athenian harbor from their vantage point in the meeting chambers, Magnus raised a brow when the man offhandedly almost insulted him. Should he take the bait? The dark-haired male was a calm character for the most time, and he rarely rose to anger. It would be a blow to his ego, but in the end Magnus decided it was not worth the time, and merely downed the remainder of his wine before nodding in finality to the man. "There isn't a need, Master Cicero. I'm sure my mentor would be very pleased with such an exchange." he responded finally, a glimmer of a challenge in his dark obsidian eyes. Did he think Magnus incapable? Perhaps he needed to reconsider.
"Our records are kept back in Colchis, for I saw no need to bring such matters here. I can however, make a copy for you, which can be handed over by the morrow. It has been committed to my memory." he replied nonchalantly, as if memorizing pages upon pages of information was something any normal person could do. Reaching out to grab the flagon of wine, he poured more into his chalice, topped up Cicero's own vessel of liquid, and then held it up in a manner that signalled a deal. "If it suits you, we can then meet tokmorrow for such an exchange? Seems very suited for a day after a peace treaty is signed between our kingdoms, it feels to me."
There was nothing new about the dance: bartering for information was matter of course for both men, but there was always a certain fascination when the partner was different. Here, Cicero was slowly sketching out his impression of the Colchian man, a picture built upon what he had learned before the other had even arrived in the country, together with what he could glean from his appearance and mannerisms, and now, in how he responded to the offer the Athenian Master of Secrets had put to him.
Cicero deliberately averted his gaze from the man to look out over the bay, giving some space for consideration of his counter offer, and likewise, his goading regarding the man’s ability to make such a decision was equally deliberate. It always paid to push at people’s boundaries just a little, to understand them better.
His lips lifted in what might have been the ghost of a smile when the younger man was quick to correct his assumption and Cicero turned from his position at the window so he was facing the table where the Colchian still sat.
“Very good” he said,not reacting outwardly to the notion that Magnus could simply recite his information from memory even though the idea clung like a burr in his thoughts. Interesting. He had heard of such skills, and yet it was still mildly impressive to meet someone who could boast them. If indeed what he suggested was true and he was not just trying to mislead his host. Cicero would not rule out either option.
Instead he watched as Magnus moved to refill their cups, and when the man held his up in offering the Athenian crossed the space slowly to accept, raised it in toast. “That sounds like an agreeable suggestion, Master Magnus. Perhaps you will meet me at the University? It is a wonder I am sure a man such as you would appreciate. I have an office there”
As he raised the bronze cup to take a sip of the wine within, the door opened and some of the other Athenian Masters began to file in, followed shortly thereafter by the rest of the Colchian retinue. With a final nod towards Magnus, Cicero drifted away, content to let their business lie until the morro, and reasonably pleased by what he had come to learn about the other man.
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There was nothing new about the dance: bartering for information was matter of course for both men, but there was always a certain fascination when the partner was different. Here, Cicero was slowly sketching out his impression of the Colchian man, a picture built upon what he had learned before the other had even arrived in the country, together with what he could glean from his appearance and mannerisms, and now, in how he responded to the offer the Athenian Master of Secrets had put to him.
Cicero deliberately averted his gaze from the man to look out over the bay, giving some space for consideration of his counter offer, and likewise, his goading regarding the man’s ability to make such a decision was equally deliberate. It always paid to push at people’s boundaries just a little, to understand them better.
His lips lifted in what might have been the ghost of a smile when the younger man was quick to correct his assumption and Cicero turned from his position at the window so he was facing the table where the Colchian still sat.
“Very good” he said,not reacting outwardly to the notion that Magnus could simply recite his information from memory even though the idea clung like a burr in his thoughts. Interesting. He had heard of such skills, and yet it was still mildly impressive to meet someone who could boast them. If indeed what he suggested was true and he was not just trying to mislead his host. Cicero would not rule out either option.
Instead he watched as Magnus moved to refill their cups, and when the man held his up in offering the Athenian crossed the space slowly to accept, raised it in toast. “That sounds like an agreeable suggestion, Master Magnus. Perhaps you will meet me at the University? It is a wonder I am sure a man such as you would appreciate. I have an office there”
As he raised the bronze cup to take a sip of the wine within, the door opened and some of the other Athenian Masters began to file in, followed shortly thereafter by the rest of the Colchian retinue. With a final nod towards Magnus, Cicero drifted away, content to let their business lie until the morro, and reasonably pleased by what he had come to learn about the other man.
There was nothing new about the dance: bartering for information was matter of course for both men, but there was always a certain fascination when the partner was different. Here, Cicero was slowly sketching out his impression of the Colchian man, a picture built upon what he had learned before the other had even arrived in the country, together with what he could glean from his appearance and mannerisms, and now, in how he responded to the offer the Athenian Master of Secrets had put to him.
Cicero deliberately averted his gaze from the man to look out over the bay, giving some space for consideration of his counter offer, and likewise, his goading regarding the man’s ability to make such a decision was equally deliberate. It always paid to push at people’s boundaries just a little, to understand them better.
His lips lifted in what might have been the ghost of a smile when the younger man was quick to correct his assumption and Cicero turned from his position at the window so he was facing the table where the Colchian still sat.
“Very good” he said,not reacting outwardly to the notion that Magnus could simply recite his information from memory even though the idea clung like a burr in his thoughts. Interesting. He had heard of such skills, and yet it was still mildly impressive to meet someone who could boast them. If indeed what he suggested was true and he was not just trying to mislead his host. Cicero would not rule out either option.
Instead he watched as Magnus moved to refill their cups, and when the man held his up in offering the Athenian crossed the space slowly to accept, raised it in toast. “That sounds like an agreeable suggestion, Master Magnus. Perhaps you will meet me at the University? It is a wonder I am sure a man such as you would appreciate. I have an office there”
As he raised the bronze cup to take a sip of the wine within, the door opened and some of the other Athenian Masters began to file in, followed shortly thereafter by the rest of the Colchian retinue. With a final nod towards Magnus, Cicero drifted away, content to let their business lie until the morro, and reasonably pleased by what he had come to learn about the other man.