“If they discover that we are responsible it might start a war. It would also allow the Empire to blame the Iron Rock incident on us, if we are caught using demons. The risk is too high. Right now we are in a decent political situation.” Loriel said.

“But we know the Empire is gearing for war behind the scenes. We are here to stop them before they become a threat. While Beira’s experiments might not be our true goal, raiding her lab might provide valuable info. And if her work succeeds it poses a danger to the Dominion as well. A raid would also disrupt the Empire as a whole.” Elnora argued.

Loriel said nothing for a bit. She seemed to think about all the arguments. We just waited in silence. “It’s too early in our trip for such a risk.” She said after a while. “But we can start with some preparations in case we deem it necessary to take drastic actions later. Elnora, have your agents prepare disguises. We will see if we can fool our imperial watchers. Amaya and Lucy will do something harmless at first. Maybe even stay close to their doubles and try to identify the watchers. If everything works out we will do it again, but this time you will summon your succubus. Not for any infiltration, just for a conversation. We will find out if she knows something useful. After that we can make further plans.”

I was a bit disappointed but Loriel made a lot of sense. We could trigger a war if we were not careful. While I really wanted to stop Beira there would be consequences if we were discovered.

“Alright. So for now we stall Beira. And I will think about ways to add a tracking spell to the blood that she can’t detect.” I did have a lot of arcane knowledge. So I was hopeful that I could develop an appropriate ritual.

“Should we involve the dwarves?” Lucy asked. “They are our allies, are they not? Or at least you said an alliance is currently being negotiated.”

“That is an excellent question.” Loriel responded. “I will have to think about that.”

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“I shall make preparations for our agents to take Lucy and Amaya’s place.” Elnora gave a short bow to Loriel and left. I wondered how she communicated with her operatives. Probably magic.

“Is there anything else for us to prepare?” Lucy asked.

“Not really. Elnora will need at least a day to make preparations. Then we try the switch. You could go out tomorrow and look for a place to drink. Something that suits your taste. It could also establish a habit if you go there on several occasions.”

“Will there be any official function we need to attend in the coming days?” I asked.

“None that I know about. It really depends how much the Empire drags their feet though. Once the high inquisitors arrive things will get more interesting again.” Loriel answered.

“What shall we do now? It’s too early for bed.” Lucy wondered.

“I could use a relaxing bath. Is that something the palace offers? Something bigger than our bathrooms in this suite. A sauna or a steam room could be nice too.”

“Yes, the palace has something like that for guests.” Loriel said.

“Are you coming with us?” Lucy inquired.

“Sure, why not. After this conversation I could do with some relaxation as well.” After a moment Loriel added: “We should take the imperial maids with us. That makes it easier for Elnora to work. And it gives them something to report to the Empire. If we are seen relaxing it will help avoid suspicion.”

I tried to avoid the maids so far. They were happy to show us to the public baths and also brought towels for us. It occurred to me that I didn't even know their names. “I apologise for not asking sooner, but what are your names?” It sounded awkward. But the time when I should have asked that question was long gone.

They seemed surprised. “My lady, there is no need to apologise. You may address us however you wish. We would be honoured to tell you our names but there is no need to use them. I am Anya.”

She had long black hair. They all did. I wondered if that was part of the dress code. All their eyes were green. The facial features were slightly different but I suddenly realised they must be sisters. Anya had rather smooth features and intelligent looking eyes. They all looked fit, slim and had flawless skin.

“We are happy that you finally called on us, my lady. We are here to serve in any way we can. I am Alena.” She was slightly taller than Anya.

“I am Selene, my lady.” The final maid said.

“Are you sisters?” Lucy asked.

“Yes.” They said at the same time.