First Test Passed [ 5/5 Rupert, Vivianne ]

[Lord Rupert de Vere]

"Very well," he gave a simple nod. It was clear that the man had some importance to her, and he was not going to push the matter. Nonetheless, he was going to watching him and her rather closely. Emotions had a way of muddying the waters in ways one could anticipate. He of all people knew that entirely too well. "Is there anything else you'd like to share with me before I set your eyes loose once again?"

[Lady Vivianne Trevelyan]

Thinking about it for a minute, Vivianne's lips twisted to and fro, a definite established pensive expression. The more she thought about something she'd noticed, the less she was sure she should voice it, yet there was a nagging little voice in the back of her mind that suggested she go ahead and speak. It might be nothing, but if it proved to be something, then she was covered. The lips smoothed into a frown, her eyes rising to his. "I'm not sure about this, but ever since the King started showing signs of illness, I've taken to watching his guards. I can't prove any of what I'm saying, I wish I could, but there's something off about one or two of them. They don't look... right."

Hoping he understood, she fell silent and waited, trying not to show her anxiety. Had she erred in speaking her thoughts?

[Lord Rupert de Vere]

It was only thanks to the years of practice that he was able to keep his expression calm and cool. He was well aware of the Royal Physician's thoughts on the King's status. What had been frustrating Rupert the most was that he very little information to work on. Poison from multiple sources? The opponent or opponents were very crafty, indeed. Yet, Rupert was determined to find the root of it. If Vivianne could help him down so, then so much the better.

"I've learned to trust my gut over the years," he observed idly. "It's kept me alive thus far. Watch them, but I don't have to tell you to be careful about it. People always make mistakes, all you have to do is wait for the perfect moment." He looked at her, then, "And report what you find only to me."

[Lady Vivianne Trevelyan]

Considering that his blessing and permission, as well as a dismissal, she nodded. "I will. Until I can get a better grasp on what is not right, or better yet, some proof, I don't want anyone to know beyond you." Vivianne spoke quietly, capably, rather than her usual erratic manner. She considered this a matter of business, therefore it was deadly serious to her. "Give me some time, my lord, and I will report back to you. A few days, perhaps?"

She stepped back, waiting for his reply before she disappeared back into the foliage to find her way back into the castle to prepare for the masque. Thomas was to meet her there, but she had to wonder what he'd think of her attire. It was chosen specially to reflect her personality.