I'm trying to find them for a non-super-bloated price, if possible, and FFG has had them awaiting reprint since May...

I found Shards of Throne at a local store yesterday. Bought it. I would love to have Shattered Empire as well to get 8-player ability. Plus Shards of Throne doesn't work as well without Shattered Empire.

You could try e-bay for used copies that may still be in good condition. Plenty of casual players out there that get the game but become intimidated by the scope of the game and decide to recoup part of their investment.