Intrigue

If socialization is the lifeblood of any court, then intrigue is the bones. At the heart of the realm, the struggle for power both legitimate and less so is a war taking place behind courtier's smiles, whispered at silken pillows, and in shadowed back alleys. Political title is not the only existing form of power, so don't be fooled into thinking the commoner you kick on a street corner won't have a way to pursue revenge against you, or that the castle maid you gossip in front of won't whisper your secrets to her lover. Whether between the Emperor and his nobles or guildmasters and more shadowy elements, the seedy underbelly of jockeying for power often includes subtle daggers and unexpected betrayals. Choose your allies wisely, as enemies will choose you based upon who your friends are.

If you are trying to get involved in the subtle currents of intrigue shifting beneath the surface at Crossroads, be careful what you wish for! Those who are too obvious about their goals are often the ones who end up without any parties interested in their abilities or, worse yet, find that they become a target for removal. The game of intrigue is a slow, complex one, and the players are often dangerous and driven.

Intrigue does not just happen, but is the result of individual characters each pursuing their own agenda. Know the motivation of your character, whether it be a quest for power or seeking of revenge. And remember: in a court where everyone is the good guy, there isn't any intrigue to be found. Don't be married to having noble goals, because noble goals rarely gain someone entrance into the halls of power where intrigue dwells.

If you want to enter into the web of intrigue on the game, it's recommended that you bounce your idea off of a wizard for review. Many a fly is caught on the web and devoured.