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[McNernia]

Colonel S.Horvath Imperial ADC

"Well Im qualified to be in the logistics Corps, serving aboard tenders as much as I am in commanding a gunboat up the rivers of Wenchuan." Hullar paused. "Though I prefer the latter since its a sure route to command, you get experience and that gets you promoted...Im also interested in Hostillia, I understand there was a mission of the Apostolic church burned, a woman tried to minister to prostitutes and the local officials were not having it? I did not really care about that but it is something of a discussion at our little home in Tyrannis Naval base."
00C: Would the Hostillia issue be public knowledge?

[Vionna-Frankenlisch]

Governor-General Richard Laurenstowe, Vice Admiral William Davington, Countess Emilie de Carmont

"It is good to meet you, my lady," von Zähringover said.

Emilie nodded, "and you, Monsieur Chancellor." She said. "You are from Regensburg, yes? I do not believe I have had the honour of visiting your country, things are well there?"

Vice Admiral Davington shook Eisenherz' hand graciously and nodded to him in greeting. "A pleasure, Admiral. I find these events a tad bit too stuffy for my liking, so it is good to find another military man here." Eisenherz had said.

Davington laughed and replied, "Yes, I can't stand all this sort of thing. Dancing and prancing and poncing about. Perhaps I've been too long a sailor, I'll never get used to it all." He studied Eisenherz' outfit. "Forgive me, sir, I do not recognise what position you hold."

---

Richard Spears, Earl of Darlington

"Well, who are we to deny honor it's due. I'd be charmed to dance..." Spears smiled as Christina accepted his request and his heart lept a little as he heard her voice catch. "-with you." Christina had finished, Spears thought he might die. He offered her his hands and led to where the other dancers were. When he was sure that the Regensburger Princess was content, Spears led the dance. His steps were masterful, he had been groomed for noble responsibility since he could walk and dancing was one of those responsibilities. Even the peasantry understood that a noble had to be charming as well as a good ruler. “How is Regensburg, Princess?” Spears wondered as they danced, “Recovering well, I trust. I apologise, I know little of Cornellian developments.”

---

Romulus Admiral James Haringoth

As James drew the Cadet close, "You are right.", Fiona had said, reaching up to his face and running her fingers along his cheekbone, "I would much rather hear about you..."

"What is there to tell?" James joked, "that you won't find out yourself soon enough. As they say, the naked man has few secrets..." He grinned that boyish smile of a man who knew he'd hit the jackpot. The sailor driving sputtered and just resisted laughing. James ran a strong hand through Fiona's hair and rested the other on her thigh. "What did the plain old, most handsome officer in the Imperial Navy do to deserve such luck?" He asked as if petitioning the gods themselves. 'Andy be blessed, I'm a lucky bastard...' James thought as the car drew into the hotel's parking area.

---

Major General Sir Horace Blackthrope

“Beyond the Imperion Coalition involvement?” Elijah IV asked.

“What did you have in mind?” asked Prince Enoch Tubal-Cain.

“Oh God, not another war?” exclaimed Mara I.

The questions came to Blackthrope in quick succession, he was not so much overwhelmed as surprised by the enthusiastic response. He first decided to reassure Queen Mara, "Not another war, Ma'am, no. At least I should certainly hope not." He decided, then, to tackle the awkward question forwarded by the King-Emperor, "Nor, sire, entirely beyond Imperion involvement. Rather independent of it, in fact, but hopefully utilising the no doubt fine relations built up between New Edom and Vionna-Frankenlisch as a result of our Imperion affiliations." He finally chose to get to the point, answering Prince Enoch's query with a short explanation. "As my government is focusing on, as the previous two governments did with less success, consolidating Vionna-Frankenlisch's position without expanding. Strengthening what we have. It was considered prudent that we look to our allies to help gauge the strength of our forces. Essentially, to hold joint land exercises and to invite closer Edomite observation of the Imperial Military. One wonders if such suggestions are ones your Imperial Majesties would smile upon?" He finished, with a bow of the head.

[The Selkie]

Governor-General Richard Laurenstowe, Vice Admiral William Davington, Countess Emilie de Carmont

"It is good to meet you, my lady," von Zähringover said.

Emilie nodded, "and you, Monsieur Chancellor." She said. "You are from Regensburg, yes? I do not believe I have had the honour of visiting your country, things are well there?"

Vice Admiral Davington shook Eisenherz' hand graciously and nodded to him in greeting. "A pleasure, Admiral. I find these events a tad bit too stuffy for my liking, so it is good to find another military man here." Eisenherz had said.

Davington laughed and replied, "Yes, I can't stand all this sort of thing. Dancing and prancing and poncing about. Perhaps I've been too long a sailor, I'll never get used to it all." He studied Eisenherz' outfit. "Forgive me, sir, I do not recognise what position you hold."

---

Richard Spears, Earl of Darlington

"Well, who are we to deny honor it's due. I'd be charmed to dance..." Spears smiled as Christina accepted his request and his heart lept a little as he heard her voice catch. "-with you." Christina had finished, Spears thought he might die. He offered her his hands and led to where the other dancers were. When he was sure that the Regensburger Princess was content, Spears led the dance. His steps were masterful, he had been groomed for noble responsibility since he could walk and dancing was one of those responsibilities. Even the peasantry understood that a noble had to be charming as well as a good ruler. “How is Regensburg, Princess?” Spears wondered as they danced, “Recovering well, I trust. I apologise, I know little of Cornellian developments.”

---

Romulus Admiral James Haringoth

As James drew the Cadet close, "You are right.", Fiona had said, reaching up to his face and running her fingers along his cheekbone, "I would much rather hear about you..."

"What is there to tell?" James joked, "that you won't find out yourself soon enough. As they say, the naked man has few secrets..." He grinned that boyish smile of a man who knew he'd hit the jackpot. The sailor driving sputtered and just resisted laughing. James ran a strong hand through Fiona's hair and rested the other on her thigh. "What did the plain old, most handsome officer in the Imperial Navy do to deserve such luck?" He asked as if petitioning the gods themselves. 'Andy be blessed, I'm a lucky bastard...' James thought as the car drew into the hotel's parking area.

---

Major General Sir Horace Blackthrope

“Beyond the Imperion Coalition involvement?” Elijah IV asked.

“What did you have in mind?” asked Prince Enoch Tubal-Cain.

“Oh God, not another war?” exclaimed Mara I.

The questions came to Blackthrope in quick succession, he was not so much overwhelmed as surprised by the enthusiastic response. He first decided to reassure Queen Mara, "Not another war, Ma'am, no. At least I should certainly hope not." He decided, then, to tackle the awkward question forwarded by the King-Emperor, "Nor, sire, entirely beyond Imperion involvement. Rather independent of it, in fact, but hopefully utilising the no doubt fine relations built up between New Edom and Vionna-Frankenlisch as a result of our Imperion affiliations." He finally chose to get to the point, answering Prince Enoch's query with a short explanation. "As my government is focusing on, as the previous two governments did with less success, consolidating Vionna-Frankenlisch's position without expanding. Strengthening what we have. It was considered prudent that we look to our allies to help gauge the strength of our forces. Essentially, to hold joint land exercises and to invite closer Edomite observation of the Imperial Military. One wonders if such suggestions are ones your Imperial Majesties would smile upon?" He finished, with a bow of the head.

Fiona Bláth of the Tribe of Wexford.
Now, he ran a hand through my long, silver hair, his other resting my thigh, pulling me close and stating his intent quite clearly.
Well, I would lie, if I said, that I hadn't seen it coming (pun not intended), that I would end the night in his bed. On the other hand, I would not just lift my arse and let him do his thing, for I was not a woman of the horizontal occupation.
I wanted to know, who I was going to let into me.
I chuckled, did hear the driver almost sputtered, trying to suppress a laugh.
"Being a good dancer and company and quite charming... if a bit too quick with the hands...", I said, glancing to the one on my thigh, then brought my mouth to his ear, whispering to him: "...though before we come to the nakedness, where no one can hide any imperfection, I would still like to know, who's imperfections I am seeing."
I let a beat pass. He would be able to smell my shampoo, the herbal one made of chamomile and calendula, while my breath tickled his ear.
"In other words - who are you, James?", I asked him.

[New Edom]

Mc Nernia, Vionna-Frankenlisch/Cossack Khanate

The King-Emperor glanced at the Master of Offices, and then said, “ Military exercises are a possibility between allies, of course. But to be blunt, General, your inquiry is most inappropriate. It is a matter for consideration of policy at the highest levels. As a high ranking soldier, you should be aware of that. If your government has urged you to inquire about it, then have the goodness to advise them to do it properly next time.”

Prince Enoch smiled faintly. “Thank you, Sir Horace. It has been a great delight. I’m afraid that we must present the Imperator of the Cossack Khanate to Their Majesties.” he nodded, and at that, Colonel Horvath abruptly bowed to Lieutenant Hullar and approached to guide Sir Horace away.

At the same time, like a minuet, Captain Count Alexander Domris approached both the Imperator and Hagar and murmured, “Excuse me, Your Majesty, I beg your pardon, but Their Imperial Majesties would be honoured to meet you.”

Whereupon, if he agreed, the Imperator would be presented to Elijah IV and Mara I. Mara would smile, and say, “Dear Imperator, I hope you have been having a nice time so far. I regret that we have not been able to speak to you until now.”

“Yes, your support during our brief civil crisis and the foreigners threatening us about our internal issues, that unfortunate business with the protestors, was noted and welcome,” said Elijah IV.

[Cossack Khanate]

New Edom

“Excuse me, Your Majesty, I beg your pardon, but Their Imperial Majesties would be honoured to meet you.”

“Of course,” Khan said to the Count. “If you will excuse, me, General, it has been a pleasure speaking with you,” he said to Hagar.

Mara would smile, and say, “Dear Imperator, I hope you have been having a nice time so far. I regret that we have not been able to speak to you until now.”

Imperator Khan nodded his head and smiled “Indeed I have. The regret is mine, Your Majesty”

“Yes, your support during our brief civil crisis and the foreigners threatening us about our internal issues, that unfortunate business with the protestors, was noted and welcome,” said Elijah IV.

“I am glad it was noticed, Your Majesty. Countries of at least similar views must stand for each other in the wake of...outsider aggression. If, God forbid, had there been war, I would not have hesitated to assist in your nation’s defense”
Khan was slightly unsure whether “Your Majesty” between two monarchs was warranted, but either way extra respect could not hurt. In the end, making the Edomite monarchs more content may actually benefit the Khanate, down the road.

[McNernia]

Queen Adah Hotel
S.Ceti

---

The Mcnernians met again as Hullar was dismissed from the conversation with Horvath. The fact was that the Vice Admiral was not one for large parties as this was. He was not raised into his father being a Hereditary knight. One was raised from Childhood on the party circuit learning the courtly manners and the like. Hullar took a deep breath and looked towards the King Emperor. “I don’t think he would like being a monarch like Emilion, stuck behind ministers.”

“I assume your right, then again the fact of him having ministers running the government means that he is able to not have mental breakdowns….”

Hullar merely stared at his superior officer. Macnarin took a deep breath and looked at the ceiling noting the images up there as the Lieutenant waited. “It’s a long story and I doubt id be the one to tell it, maybe you should talk to your father and he can talk to the Princes.”

“Alright then.”

[The Shrailleeni Empire]

Aryni and Christina

Aryni looked at Christina with some interest now. It was typical for female royals from patriarchal nations to have even less influence than Shrailleeni men, but that did not mean that they were useless as allies. She had never seriously considered Regensburg a potential source of foreign support, but only a foolish woman would allow prejudice to threaten possibility.

"Friendship between our nations could only be a good thing," she replied diplomatically. "I would be honored to personally host you if you would like to visit our islands again. She took the competency comment in stride, after all it was a rather obvious thing. "So you believe in human rights? I was under the impression that it was an unpopular theory in most of the region, outside of Adiron of course. Are you familiar with the writings of Cressa Dennatel?"

Chella and Aryni

Aryni's eye flit to her mother as Elijah concluded, and observed in that quick motion her demeanor. The Mother Empress was looking at her with a small smile that expressed little more than maternal affection, but her stance and the raptness of her attention told Aryni that she was being tested. She had prompted the question, and now it was to her to field the answer.

"I believe that we must rekindle the spirit that began our alliance," she said with a sudden surety that briefly surprised even herself. "A century ago we faced similar tests, when the modern world meant steam and combustion and our enemies pressed in from all corners. At that time we shared not battlefields but ideas, technology, and even blood. The differences between our cultures and our faiths did not seem so vast to our ancestors."

She looked at Elijah, and her gaze moved slightly upward to meet his directly as she spoke.

"We have allowed a veil of suspicion to come between us, our words and actions manufactured and cleaned out of a fear that the truth will somehow separate us. But our friendship was not forged merely in politeness, but in honor. And our honor as friends demands that we speak to one another plainly and always with truth."

"That is the spirit with which we may overcome our diving courses," she concluded. "It means communicating with one another more frequently and more sincerely. Were I to suggest a concrete matter, I would say that we should begin by organizing a meeting concerning events in Deadora."

Chella looked at her daughter with an unreadable expression, but made no outward signs of disapproval. There was a shift in her body language though that told Aryni that she may have overstepped her authority, and she could imagine why. But her mother had not achieved all that she had by being meek, and if she would not listen to Aryni's advice regarding Deadora privately than she would force the issue.

"Wisely said my daughter," she said softly, and then to Elijah, "I believe that you are correct. Our communication outside of war has lapsed heavily in recent years, the uncertainty caused by civil conflict and regional instability. Perhaps it is now the time to rectify this problem. As my daughter said, our friendship requires speaking with one another always with truth. Let us plan to convene on the issues facing our empires today, and join hands in peace as we do in war."

---

The spectacle of King-Emperor Elijah and Queen-Empress Mara singing before the court was not one that any of the Shrailleeni present had ever beheld before. Singing and dancing were not seen as activities befitting Shrailleeni royalty, who were better suited to organizing and observing such events. It was therefore strange to see two who were ostensibly equal in rank to the Mother Empress and Prince-Regent singing such an odd, jubilant song.

The highest ranking of the Shrailleeni recognized the point of such display, however. It was as much a ritual as it was a festive activity, a performance that was as political as it was entertaining. This was how the New Edomites were, just as the king's birthday celebration had revealed.

[Ghant]

Alexia

The Earl nodded with a smile in response to what Alexia had to say. "Many speak highly of beauty and valor..." he replied, "But I have always found knowledge. Knowledge and wisdom to be the greatest virtues of all."

“Ignorance is the curse of God; knowledge is the wing wherewith we fly to heaven,” Alexia responded with a bashful grin. “Yet I have often found that the most ignorant of men are the ones who fancy themselves the most likely to go to heaven,” she briefly chuckled.

As for the dance, the Earl let Alexia know that her lack of skill and two left feet would not be a problem. "that's alright," Crawford replied, a grin appearing on his bearded face, "perhaps they will make a fine match for my two right ones." He joked as he led the Princess into the next dance. As could be expected, Alexia’s footing was clumsy at first, though the Earl was a good enough dancer on his own to help compensate for this.

Then came the million dollar question. "Forgive me, Princess," The Earl mentioned as they danced, "I have been reading about Cornellian royalty as of late. I hear that you've yet to marry. Please do forgive my curiosity but is there any particular reason why?"

…If I had a dollar for every time someone has asked me this, Alexia thought as she looked at the floor. “There are several reasons, though it pains me to discuss it so openly. My betrothals have all been broken, having ended unceremoniously, so superstitious sorts think I’m cursed. My mother is highborn, while my father is lowborn, so proper sorts think I’m not of appropriate birth. Others still, after all that, think that I’m too prudish, or too old, or too smart.”

Alexia shrugged by the end of it all and simply said “So no, there’s no particular reason…it’s likely a culmination of several small reasons. I just try not to let it get to me.” Having said all that, the princess sighed, and tried focusing on the dance, however futile that might be.

Nymun

“There certainly will be if it will bring him to visit our nation,” Alvarado said with a chuckle at the prospect of coaxing the Emperor of Ghant to visit Chaco. “Please pass on our desire to honor him though. Of course, formal invitations will come when the time is right.”

Nymun nodded with a sheepish grin. “I will see what I can do. I have a good enough rapport with the Emperor anyway, so at least he will listen to what I have to say.”

After Nymun spoke about the more delicate matters of state, Alvarado stayed quiet, “Of that I have no doubt sir. I shall leave that business to the safety of the closed doors for now.”

To this, the Ghantish Prime Minister patted Alvarado on the shoulder. “Very good, very good indeed. Feel free to relay that information to your associates and we will be in discussion about that matter soon enough.”

Cassandra

Sophia of Regensburg was forthcoming with the identity of her “dance partner,” much to Cassandra’s satisfaction. "I believe it was a Lt. Colonel from Chaco. He was a gentleman to me, at the very least."

“A Lt. Colonel, you say?” Cassandra asked, feigning surprise. “Well, there’s two here, so which one? Salinas or Cayo?” Cassandra didn’t have much time to pry, unfortunately, as three men approached them not long thereafter.

Count Thomas Lalery was joined by two other Edomites. The first had a sharp nose, had a stocky build and a balding scalp in a dark uniform adorned with medals. The other man was tall and dark, also with medals on his suit.

“Princess Cassandra!” boomed Lalery cheerfully. “Heavens above, your beauty is painful to behold! Hearts are broken and bleeding on the floor from your indifference! How fair among women is the Protector of the Realm of Ghant!” He bowed with a grin. “And the fair Princess Sophia of Neue Regensburg. We are in a constellation of loveliness, gentlemen!”

…Your flattery is wasted on me, Cassandra thought to herself, stymieing a negative reaction by biting her lower lip. She waited until the others had proper introductions before responding.

“Please permit me, an introduction to Dr. Benjamin Scroll, our ambassador to the Organization of Ayacan States, and in many ways the architect of our Holy Empire in Arcologia, and Admiral Daniel Esarhaddon, commander of our naval forces in Arcologia,” Lalery introduced the doctor.

Dr. Scroll bowed. “Your Highnesses, it is a great honor to meet you.”

It was at that moment that Cassandra curtsied in the proper fashion. “Thank you, Dr. Scroll. Your reputation as a learned man precedes you. The King is fortunate to have a man of your mental acumen in his service.”

“The same can be said of you, Admiral,” Cassandra added, her tone polite but dry. “In Ghant they call you the Bane of Buccaneers.”

To Count Lalery, Cassandra inclined her head. “I have heard, Count, of your dismissal from your position in the Edomite government. It is a shame…a man of your talent and stature having come to such an unbefitting end. I wonder what you shall do now.”

Cassandra looked around and tried to pick out the two lieutenant colonels that were present. Salinas and Cayo. Eventually she noticed Cayo dancing with one Sarah Wendt. Ah, I remember you. It was at that moment that she deduced that her quarry was Cayo, and that she only had to wait until Cayo was done dancing with Wendt, before she’d seek him out.

In the meantime, I suppose I’ll have to make small talk with these Edomites.

Nathan

Clodia sighed deeply and crossed herself at the Emperor’s mention of Hesperinus. “He would. And he would want that...life should continue without him, the joys and hurts of it after all do not end with tragedy but continue.”

At the Emperor’s poetic verse, Clodia said “that is very well said, sir,” with a smile. “But we orphans can dance, drink, make merry, see the beauty in the world and hope for better days for those who will come after us.”

As he spoke of his intentions, she said, “the region knows of your kindness and chivalry to ladies, sir, and it is much appreciated by me. In many ways you are the opposite half of the coin of our King-Emperor--he is often so remote and grand, and yet he has a kind heart. Generous to those who are his subjects, as I believe you are as well.”

The Emperor was a deft dancer, and maintained the proper course of the dance without error, as he listened to Clodia speak. “You are very kind to say so, my lady. A wise man once told me that the true measure of a man is how he treats others when he is in a position of power. I try to earn the people’s respect by showing it, especially to women. Is it not so that in many parts of the world, women are mistreated? Their knowledge, their beauty, their powers not allowed to shine? I want nothing more than to behold their radiance, for I have always been awestruck by it.”

“New Edom is fascinating, in that regard,” the Emperor continued. “A country of true beauty, where so many things are possible. One only needs to look at you to see the truth in this. You my lady, are beautiful, and intelligent, and courteous. Just dancing with you, I consider myself a fortunate man. Yet I want to know more, what wondrous revelations you have yet to reveal. If only I were so fortunate,” he smiled brightly.

[New Edom]

Ghant

The Emperor was a deft dancer, and maintained the proper course of the dance without error, as he listened to Clodia speak. “You are very kind to say so, my lady. A wise man once told me that the true measure of a man is how he treats others when he is in a position of power. I try to earn the people’s respect by showing it, especially to women. Is it not so that in many parts of the world, women are mistreated? Their knowledge, their beauty, their powers not allowed to shine? I want nothing more than to behold their radiance, for I have always been awestruck by it.”

“I heard some poet once recite some poem, can’t quite remember, but it was something about all the world’s a stage,” the Countess replied as the Emperor moved her gracefully and with confidence around the dance floor. “I think we all have our roles to play, do we not, sir? I cannot imagine myself as a captain of industry or of a ship for that matter, I am content to leave such adventures to men. We ladies tend to have our own mysteries and powers…” she gave him a smile and gave him a quick wink, wondering if he would disapprove of so casual a gesture to a ruler.

“New Edom is fascinating, in that regard,” the Emperor continued. “A country of true beauty, where so many things are possible. One only needs to look at you to see the truth in this. You my lady, are beautiful, and intelligent, and courteous. Just dancing with you, I consider myself a fortunate man. Yet I want to know more, what wondrous revelations you have yet to reveal. If only I were so fortunate,” he smiled brightly.

“Your Majesty is overwhelming,” replied Clodia, flushing slightly. “You imagine I have secrets of some kind, but I am only the wife of the Commander of the Imperial Guard. I am a dutiful lady in waiting, and a dutiful wife, and had been a dutiful daughter before that.” She looked up at him. “Of course I have a reputation for being an...admirer of the late General Hesperinus as well. I do not believe Your Majesty knew him personally? Naturally, as with all his admirers, I feel his loss keenly. But flowers must die ere the plant blooms.:”

She suddenly looked at him thoughtfully and exclaimed, “Was it not Your Majesty who was involved in giving safe haven to the little king of Gavinium, and thus provided the legitimate government in exile of that country a figure to rally around? And how merciful to the little boy and his grandmother!” she sighed. “Alas, Falk and I have never had any children. I am so fond of them.”

It was at that moment that Cassandra curtsied in the proper fashion. “Thank you, Dr. Scroll. Your reputation as a learned man precedes you. The King is fortunate to have a man of your mental acumen in his service.”

‘One does one’s humble best, Your Highness,” replied Dr. Scroll, inclining his head. “I am glad to put my labours to good work. The Arcologians are a people who were subjected to much greed and corruption, and were caught between Arbites and Adiron, mere fodder for their disagreements. But we are bringing them civilization, a great burden but a worthy one I believe.”

“The same can be said of you, Admiral,” Cassandra added, her tone polite but dry. “In Ghant they call you the Bane of Buccaneers.”

Esarhaddon also inclined his head. “A flattering nickname. I wouldn’t give the pirates that road the Ura Sea so romantic a nickname, Highness, but thank you. They are terrorizers of fishermen and honest commercial travelers, they enslave people and butcher them. They value human life so little they are scarcely worth the name of men.”

To Count Lalery, Cassandra inclined her head. “I have heard, Count, of your dismissal from your position in the Edomite government. It is a shame…a man of your talent and stature having come to such an unbefitting end. I wonder what you shall do now.”

Cassandra looked around and tried to pick out the two lieutenant colonels that were present

“I’m the Finance Minister,” replied Lalery. “President of the Council was a temporary position until the Monarchs had decided who should replace Nicanor. Oops,” he added, tapping ash from his cigar down Cassandra’s cleavage.

[Ghant]

Nathan

As the Emperor of Ghant and Clodia danced, she told him that “I heard some poet once recite some poem, can’t quite remember, but it was something about all the world’s a stage,” the Countess replied as the Emperor moved her gracefully and with confidence around the dance floor. “I think we all have our roles to play, do we not, sir? I cannot imagine myself as a captain of industry or of a ship for that matter, I am content to leave such adventures to men. We ladies tend to have our own mysteries and powers…” she gave him a smile and a wink.

Nathan smiled in response, and recalled the poem of which Clodia referred. “… All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players; they have their exits and their entrances; and one man in his time plays many parts.”

“Your Majesty is overwhelming,” replied Clodia, flushing slightly. “You imagine I have secrets of some kind, but I am only the wife of the Commander of the Imperial Guard. I am a dutiful lady in waiting, and a dutiful wife, and had been a dutiful daughter before that.” She looked up at him. “Of course I have a reputation for being an...admirer of the late General Hesperinus as well. I do not believe Your Majesty knew him personally? Naturally, as with all his admirers, I feel his loss keenly. But flowers must die ere the plant blooms.”

“Aye, it is so, and such is life,” the Emperor nodded in agreement, without losing his step, his composure or eye contact. “The lotus is the most beautiful flower, whose petals open one by one. But it will only grow in the mud. In order to grow and gain wisdom, first you must have the mud… the obstacles of life and its suffering. The mud speaks of the common ground that people share, no matter our stations in life. Whether we have it all or we have nothing, we are all faced with the same obstacles: sadness, loss, illness, dying and death. Yet where one flower dies, another is born, and life begins anew.”

She suddenly looked at him thoughtfully and exclaimed, “was it not Your Majesty who was involved in giving safe haven to the little king of Gavinium, and thus provided the legitimate government in exile of that country a figure to rally around? And how merciful to the little boy and his grandmother!” she sighed. “Alas, Falk and I have never had any children. I am so fond of them.”

The Emperor nodded his head slowly. “Yes, it is so. The boy’s grandmother fled with him to Ghant, and delivered the boy into my protection. I didn’t see politics, opportunity or an inconvenience. I saw a child of a murdered father, a dead mother, deprived of his home and fearing for his life. I did what any decent man would, and I ensured his safety and well-being, and honored the memory of his father by delivering him onto the throne that by rights belonged to him. Your people saw the honor and wisdom in this, and for that I am grateful.”

While Nathan believed that there was more than meets the eye to Clodia, he wouldn’t dare to presume anything. Instead he would dance with her, speak with her as he would the greatest ladies of Ghant and genuinely enjoy her company. Yet something tugged at his heart, and he couldn’t betray his heart. “As you might assume, I love children, giving them the things in life that were not given to me. The same is true for women, I suppose. If spending time with me helps you cope with your woes, than I shall make every effort to make myself available to you, my lady,” he said with a bright smile. He meant every word he said too.

Cassandra

“One does one’s humble best, Your Highness,” replied Dr. Scroll to the Ghantish princess, inclining his head. “I am glad to put my labors to good work. The Arcologians are a people who were subjected to much greed and corruption, and were caught between Arbites and Adiron, mere fodder for their disagreements. But we are bringing them civilization, a great burden but a worthy one I believe.”

“It isn’t civilization that they need,” Cassandra countered. “It’s fire and blood. What they did to Alona Belasko is worthy of great fury. Were it me, I would have enslaved that rabble, castrated their men and made their women into common whores, all the better to breed the savagery from them posthaste.”

Esarhaddon also inclined his head. “A flattering nickname. I wouldn’t give the pirates that road the Ura Sea so romantic a nickname, Highness, but thank you. They are terrorizers of fishermen and honest commercial travelers, they enslave people and butcher them. They value human life so little they are scarcely worth the name of men.”

“The sooner that lot is cast down into the depths of the seas, the better,” the princess firmly nodded her head. “If the fish would even deign to have them and their rotten black hearts in their midst.”

Lastly, the Count said “I’m the Finance Minister.” He said agitated, the idea of which made Cassandra smirk. “President of the Council was a temporary position until the Monarchs had decided who should replace Nicanor.”

Then it happened, after everything had been going so well. “Oops.” Lalery’s cigar had dripped ashes down into Cassandra’s bosom, causing the princess to grit her teeth. She steeled herself as the ashes settled, all while taking a backstep. I’m going to make you pay for that, Cassandra thought. You fucking asshole…

After a wince and a grimace, Cassandra said to the Edomites “please excuse me, gentleman, I must see myself off to the dressing room.” Quickly then, Cassandra turned and walked away, still feeling the ashes between her breasts. As she walked away, she looked for the nearest Imperial Guardsman and when she found one, said to him quietly “please send the Dowager Princess Caroline to attend me in the dressing room.”

Cassandra made her way to the dressing room, and burst into it with a savage fury. She paid no heed to anyone else that may have been present, and went to the sink to refresh herself with some water. Having done that, she waited for her aunt to arrive, which wasn’t long.

The Dowager Princess entered the dressing room and stood before her niece. “Cassandra,” the older woman said with a look of concern. “Is everything alright?” Caroline still possessed some empathy for the children of her late husband’s brothers, though seldom had that sentiment ever been shown back in return.

“I’m afraid not, Aunt Caroline,” Cassandra said, feigning distress. “Your husband somehow managed to spill the ashes of his cigar down my bosom, and now I can’t enjoy the gala.”

“Oh, I’m so sorry,” Caroline said as she embraced her niece tenderly. “I’m sure it was an accident…is there anything I can do to help?” Bless her, but Caroline genuinely seemed to think that her husband was incapable of such blatant disrespect and cruelty.

“Yes Aunt Caroline,” replied Cassandra in a distraught voice. “Can you please help me undo my dress, so I can clean the ashes out? I can’t let the evening end like this. Not like this.”

Caroline nodded. “Of course, dear.” Having spent the vast majority of her life helping put on and remove dresses and gowns, Caroline worked at the laces on the back of Cassandra’s dress, until the corset was exposed, and then she began to remove that as well. “Almost there, Cassie.”

When at last the corset was nearly undone, Cassandra walked over to the sink, and began to dampen a washcloth in the running water as she removed her corset, leaving her bosom exposed. She then used the washcloth to clean her breasts until the ash was gone, which seemed to take a minute or two, and then another dry washcloth to dry herself off. Once this one done, she put her corset back on.

“Much better…now if you wouldn’t mind, Aunt Caroline…” she gestured over her shoulder to her back.

“Yes, of course.” Caroline helped Cassandra retie the back laces of her corset and dress, though this took much longer than undoing them. After several minutes of expertly tying the laces, at last Cassandra’s outfit was restored to its peak condition. “There you go, Cassie, good as new,” she said with a warm smile. “Better now?”

Cassandra looked herself up and down in the mirror, and smiled brightly. “Yes, so much better, thank you Aunt Caroline.” At that moment she looked around the dressing room, and listened, to make sure that the two of them were alone. “Though there’s one more thing.”

“Anything, Cassie,” Caroline said in response, eager to help her niece. It’s like leading a lamb to slaughter…

Cassandra, resplendent in her golden gown, grabbed Caroline’s arm in both hands. Cassandra twisted it at an unusual angle, forcing Caroline down to her knees, pleading with her. “Cassie! What are you doing!”

“Quiet,” Cassandra said to her aunt, the younger woman’s face going from pleasant to a guise of dark rage, her brow furrowed and her eyes narrowed in fury. It wasn’t Caroline’s fault that she was so stupid, so clueless, so helpless. Even when Cassie was a little girl, Caroline in her best moments was a groveling simpleton, in over her head. She tried to please her nieces and nephews, and all her in-laws, but they all mocked her and laughed at her behind her back. How Uncle John could have ever fallen for such a dumb whore is beyond me, Cassandra thought as she had her aunt on her knees.

“You know…well maybe you don’t know, but your husband spilled those cigar ashes down my dress on purpose,” Cassandra snorted. “His intent to embarrass and humiliate me in front of others, and he thinks he’s so clever, so untouchable. Doesn’t he, Aunt Caroline?”

Tears streaming down her face, Caroline nodded. “Please, Cassie, don’t hurt me…”

Cassandra sighed. “Oh, I don’t want to hurt you, Aunt Caroline. You see, I want to hurt your husband, but I can’t. Unfortunately, the only way to hurt him is to hurt you…”

“No,” Caroline shook her head. “You can just let me go…we can forget about all of this…and I’ll talk to him…”

“I don’t think you understand, Aunt Caroline,” Cassandra said quietly, but with fury. “Our house words are Retribution is Ours, and I will have it, one way or the other. If not from you, then one of your daughters. Alexia will do nicely. I’ll hurt her twice as hard as I’d hurt you, for making me go out of my way.”

Caroline, still sobbing, thought about that for a moment, and then she went limp and stopped fighting. “…Do as you must, Cassie.”

Now that Caroline had ceased struggling, Cassandra forced open her left hand. “That’s a lovely ring, Aunt Caroline. Count Lalery must love you very much.” With that said, Cassandra seized Caroline’s third finger, just below her wedding ring.

Crack. Caroline screamed, and Cassandra let go of her aunt’s hand. “Oh, that doesn’t look good at all…you must be careful around those doors, Aunt Caroline. Watch your fingers around the hinges.” Cassandra left the dressing room discreetly as Caroline cradled her maimed hand on the floor, sobbing.

Cassandra recomposed herself as she reentered the ballroom, and at that time she sought out the Chacoan by the name of Bryan, and looked for him based off the description that her cousin had provided for her earlier. Eventually she found who she thought was Bryan, and approached him in a proper and dignified manner reserved for a Princess of Ghant. Once she drew near, she ahemed in an effort to gain his attention and then she said “oh, hello there, soldier. You must be…Bryan, I presume? I was told you are an exquisite dancer, and I was hoping you could entertain a Princess of Ghant with one,” she said with a bright smile, completely unfazed by what she had just done.

[Republica De Gran Chaco]

Ghant

“oh, hello there, soldier. You must be…Bryan, I presume? I was told you are an exquisite dancer, and I was hoping you could entertain a Princess of Ghant with one,” she said with a bright smile, completely unfazed by what she had just done.

Bryan was a bit surprised and gave a bow to the Ghantish woman who had come up to him, “ I am Lieutenant Colonel Bryan Cayo, ma’am. It would be my honor to dance with a princess of Ghant though I am not sure that I would deserve it. How I have gained such a reputation perplexes me, though I was taught to never say no to a good thing.”

He set his drink down and turned to Sarah Wendt, “Please excuse me for a moment.”

Bryan led Cassandra out to the dance floor wondering at how he had made this impression, but keeping his mouth shut so as to not upset the beauty that had asked for a dance.