Imperial Affair (Closed)

IIwiki Admin · by **Ghant** » Mon Jan 11, 2016 11:44 am

by **Lacus Magni** » Mon Jan 11, 2016 11:49 am

Palace of Augustus
Castellum ab Alba
Summer 2015
10:39 am FEST

“You called for me, brother?” Isabella questioned.

The Emperor surrounded by advisors, had papers in his hands and all over the table in front of him. He placed the papers down, “I did, Bella,” he said. He looked over his shoulder, “Leave us,” he said to the men in the room.

The men shuffled out of the room, leaving only Jason Augustus and Isabella present. “What do you need?” she snapped to her brother.

“I was wondering how you’d feel about an official role in government. You’ve proven yourself to be quite resourceful and resilient when called upon before,” Jason said to her. Isabella had previously served the official duties of consort following the death of Jason Augustus’ first wife. It wasn’t a very difficult job for her to fulfill, often not more than a smile and a wave, but at times she was required to attend state functions and even exert some soft power.

“I don’t know, Jason. I was happy to fill in after Stephanie’s untimely passing, but I just can’t stand being in the capital for any longer than I have to be,” she told her brother. Isabella spent most of her time in the western Greek provinces and held a general disdain for all things in the capital.

The Emperor sighed, “I’m aware, sister. But I was thinking something more along the lines of an ambassador.”

“I don’t think I’m necessarily qualified for that,” she said. She had a look of confusion on her face. “Why? Where?” she asked.

“Why not,”[/i] he plainly stated. “You have shown an affinity for living abroad before, so I know you won’t mind not being in Latium. You are very bright; your views are largely in line with the leaderships and mine. And to be blunt, you are one of the more popular members of the Imperial family.”

“Well…I uhh, where then?” she asked again.

“I’ll leave that to you, as there are a handful of vacancies or people we could move around,” Jason told his sister. He put his glasses on, “You may have your pick of Rome, the UIF, Olmon…please pass on that one, trust me, and finally, Ghant.”

She certainly didn’t want to go to Olmon or the UIF, as she held certain views of the continental peoples. And well Rome, Rome was to similar to Latium. She snickered “ A rather slim selection you’ve left me, brother.” She took a moment to think, “How about Ghant?” she asked.

“Ghant?” he said.

“Yes, Ghant. Why...is that a problem?”she snapped.

“No,” he said, “I just figured you would have said Rome.” Jason Augustus stood and walked towards his seated sister. He sat on the edge of the long table, “Are you sure? You can say no if this is something you don’t want to do. I’m not trying to get rid of you, sister.”

She looked up at him, “I wouldn’t have agreed if I didn’t wish to follow through.”

“I’ll have everything arraigned then. Pompilius will be in touch. And sister…thank you” the Emperor said.

“Thank you, Caesar,” she said to her brother, addressing him out of character by his title. She kissed her brother on the cheek and said with her usual smile “I should get ready then.”

IIwiki Admin · by **Ghant** » Mon Jan 11, 2016 11:51 am

Inperiala Palace
Ghish, Ghant
Summer 2015

The Emperor of Ghant chewed on his potatoes methodically as he examined the missive that was handed to him by a courier. “So, it would appear as though the Latin Emperor intends to send his sister to Ghish as Legate,” he said, biting his bottom lip.

“...Which one?” his majordomo asked him as he leaned forward, over a chair.

“...The hot one,” Nathan responded, sarcastically. Although I am already married with an Ohaide besides, he considered to himself.

“...That doesn’t narrow it down,” Majordomo Bobo told him. “I am assuming you are referring to Isabella?”

“...Yes, the oldest one. 31 as it were…” Nathan responded in turn. He sat at a table with his dinner in front of him, and he leaned back, cocking his head. “And is there any knowledge as to when we shall meet Princess Isabella?”

“...She arrives in the capitol tonight,” Bobo answered. “So there is little time.”

“Well, shit,” Nathan stated as he leaned forward again. “That leaves us little time then...”

ooooooo

Isabella had landed in Ghant moments ago. She had never visited before, and knew little of their customs or traditions, other than what she had read from her Foreign Ministry prepared materials. She looked at the top folder once more, thinking to herself, this Emperor is a cute one.

An attendant approached and led her off the plane and onto the tarmac. She wasn’t greeted with any fanfare, not that she expected any, and entered her car which would lead her to the Palace, where she would meet the Emperor.

“Your Grace,” one of her aides said, “it’s not a long drive to the Palace, perhaps we should review things one last time?”

“That won’t be necessary. I’ve read through everything and I’ve met my fair share of world leaders, I think I’ll be quite alright. Besides, I’m sure this Emperor is nothing I can’t handle,” she replied.

The streets that time of the evening were relatively bare, vehicles sparse. As it were, there was hardly anything preventing them from arriving at the palace in short order. When the car arrived at the security checkpoint for the Palace, one of the guards in the booth said, “who goes there?”

The driver of Isabella’s car rolled down the window, flashed relevant papers and said, “Princess Isabella of Lusitania, Ambassador from the Latin Empire.”

The guard examined the papers thoughtfully, looking them over and then nodding. “Welcome to the Imperial Palace of Ghish, your highness. The Emperor is expecting you.” Having said that, the gate was opened, and the car allowed to enter. Not too far ahead of the entrance gate was a bay for cars, adjacent to a side entrance of the Palace.

The driver pulled forward, “Your Grace, it will be just a moment.”

Isabella was more nervous than she had expected, gaining a slight shiver. “Are you cold, Your Grace?,” her aide asked.

Isabella glanced out the car window, “No, I’m uh, fine, Helene. Thank you.”

The car finally came to a stop and the guard in the passenger seat exited to open her door. He opened it and he held his hand out to assist her, “Your Grace,” he said.

After a few moments, the side door to the Palace closest to them opened, revealing a young girl dressed in a gown with tall stockings, with loose brown hair and eyes to match set amongst fair, freckled skin. She still had a girl’s body, and looked to be entering teenage years. “Ambassador Princess Isabella, I presume?” she, like the guardsman, spoke exquisite Latin, although the girl’s was by far much more fluid.

Isabella’s aide tapped her on the shoulder, “Your Grace,” and pointed to the young girl opening the door.

Isabella walked towards her and responded with a smile, “Why, yes. That would be me.” She was pleasantly surprised to hear such a young girl speak Latin so well, just now thinking to herself, I don’t even speak a word of their tongue.

“My name is Amelia...I am the Emperor’s sister,” she said with a smile. “If you would follow me, I can take you to his solar. He has dinner waiting for you and your party, and accommodations in the palace for tonight as well...surely you are tired,” the girl explained as she stood in the doorway, gesturing to come inside. Again, her Latin was flawless.

“Very nice to meet you, Amelia,” Isabella quickly said to her. “And yes, very tired. I had no idea it was such a long flight,” she finished. Isabella and her small group followed Amelia into the Palace. She made sure to take in all of her surroundings, as she loved looking at all of the artwork she would find in palaces and important government buildings.

“Likewise,” Amelia responded with a smile as she ushered them inside, shutting the door behind them. The hallway was wide, perhaps for a dozen men abreast, with black and white tiles for a floor, and golden walls that reflected the light being emitted from chandeliers dangling overhead the walls were lined with narrow tables for various artifacts, glass cases with weapons or ornaments, and there were paintings and tapestries on the walls. “Ghant is a long flight from anywhere,” she laughed. “That’s why not so many people come...or go. But if you can suffer the flight, it’s worth it. Surely you are curious why I speak so fluent Latin, eh?” she asked with a raised eyebrow as they walked.

Hopefully the suffer turned out to be worth it, Isabella thought to herself. “As a matter of fact, I was going to ask you that. You speak it well enough to make someone believe it is your native tongue. I wouldn’t have thought many Latinophones have been this far north before,” she said.

“Our mother is half-Roman...her mother is Flavia Ahenobarba,” Amelia explained. “Latin is a widely spoken second language, especially among the highborn folks, you see. Long story why that is, but Ghant has had extensive dealings with Romans in the past. My brother speaks it well too...you should hear him recite poetry in Latin,” she laughed.

“That is rather fascinating, Amelia. I only wish I could say I had the same knowledge of your language,” Isabella said with a laugh, attempting to hide her embarrassment of not being able to speak Ghantish. Was I out of my league? she thought to herself. “I’d very much enjoy to see your brother...forgive me, His Majesty recite some poetry,” she finished.

That made Amelia grin from ear to ear. “Inoiz ez du hitz egiten denean otoitz egiten, Jainkoak ez delako, nahiz eta ulertu dezaten,” she said, giggling. “In case you were wondering, that is an old Ghantish saying, which translates to, never speak it when praying, because not even God can understand it’. A very hard language to learn for anyone who isn’t native. We are almost there too, so you will get your chance to meet him soon enough.”

Isabella’s face turned bright red when Amelia began speaking Ghantish. The only thing running through her mind at that moment was that she was possibly calling her a barbarian or poking fun at her. Though, it turned out Isabella had nothing to worry about and laughed when Amelia explained. “Well you are certainly right, I’d be shocked if the Lord could understand what you just said,” she said with another laugh, slowing calming herself down. She could almost see the doors where the Ghantish party was waiting for her.

“I certainly wouldn’t wish it on anybody...not even God. He has enough things to worry about,” Amelia said sniggering as she stopped in front of a pair of double gilded doors. “Well, here you are,” she said as she pushed upon the door just enough for them to walk inside. “Nice meeting you...I will be around,” Amelia said as she promptly ran off.

The Emperor of Ghant waited inside. He sat at the head of a long wooden table of carved mahogany, with a lit fireplace burning at the end of the room to his left. He was tall, 6’2’’ as it were, with fair skin and reddish-brown hair cut short, slightly curly. He had freckles on his skin, was clean shaven and had blue-grey eyes. His face was solemn looking by nature, with thoughtful eyes and a blank expression that make him look as though he was deep in contemplation. He was wearing a blue, black and gold tunic, with only his head and his large hands visible without. In front of him was a series of dishes, ranging from honey baked ham, baked chicken and beef stew in bread bowls. There was an assortment of vegetables and some fruit to go along with it, along with some tapioca pudding, tea, water and wine. The room around him was gold with intricate white vine patterns on the walls, with a few bookshelves, couches and coffee tables. There was also a large, flatscreen television that was turned off, and some adjacent doors that led to other rooms in the solar.

“Lovely meeting you also, Amelia,” Isabella said before they parted. She gazed into the extravagant room, first seeing the table and all that was set upon it. Soon though, her eyes locked on the Emperor of Ghant. So handsome, she thought, shame he was married. Isabella slowly entered the room, the aroma from the foods on the table catching her nose. “Your Majesty,” she said aloud with purpose.

“Your highness, I bid thee welcome to Ghant,” Nathan smiled as he got up and approached the Princess and her party. He bowed courteously before them. “Please, join me at my table here, I figured you and your companions are surely hungry, and thirsty as well. I hope what I have here might be to your satisfaction.”

Isabella, standing at a generous 5’6’’ looked up at Emperor Nathan when he approached and stood in front of her. She curtsied and said, “Your Majesty, thank you for the very generous welcome. And yes, you guessed correctly. I believe many of the group are quite hungry.” She looked him up and down while walking to the table, thinking, I’m sure I’ll find something to my satisfaction. The rest of her party followed them to the table, quickly finding their seats as hunger was the first thing on most of their minds.

“Don’t thank me yet, Princess,” Nathan said with a wry smile as he pulled from behind his back a lone purple rose. “From up north. I figured if the Latin Emperor would present something as beautiful as thee, that the Ghantish Emperor might as well return the favor,” he said as he extended the exotic rose to her, shining as it did in the pale light that filled the room with a majestic glow.

Isabella blushed and was near speechless, “Oh my,” she exclaimed. “It is absolutely...gorgeous. And my favorite color,” she managed to spit out with a large grinning smile on her face. She accepted the rose from him and sniffed it. “Now, I believe I can properly thank you, Your Majesty,” Isabella finished, smiling at him.

The Emperor returned the smile. “You are most welcome,” he responded as he pulled a chair out for her close to where he was sitting. “It will have to suffice,” Nathan said with a slight blush as he went back to his seat. “Although I would say that it compares to thee like a candle does to the sun.”

She sat as Nathan pulled out her chair and smiled at him again. Her face was nearly as bright red as when Amelia spoke Ghantish to her when the Emperor laid that last line on her, and she enjoyed every second of it. He certainly had a way with words, she thought. “That is most kind of you to say, Your Majesty,” Isabella replied with a smile that she could not hide. While the rest of the Latin party began eying what they would fill their plates and glasses with, Isabella could not take her focus off of Nathan.

“One thing I would tell you, my Princess...I am sure your brother would say the same, is that,” he began to explain as he returned to his seat and sat back down, while picking up a glass of wine in his right hand. “Is that a sovereign should learn the art of giving credit where credit is due. Although, I don’t think there are any words, in Ghantish or Latin, that can do you proper justice, I am afraid,” he told her with a smile and pronounced eye contact as he downed his red wine.

Isabella looked down quickly to quell her smile, but to no avail. “I’d say that you have mastered that art, Your Majesty.” she said with a joking tone. She didn’t respond to his last remark only continued to smile at him, while attempting to remember her role of representing the Latin people, though it was far from her current concern.

“Well, I have been Emperor since the age of nine...eighteen years on the Obsidian Throne as of next month,” Nathan explained. “Plenty of time to learn...speaking of which, that is why you are here, is it not? As a Legate to Ghish on behalf of your brother, the Latin Emperor. I can’t say I know much about him, or your Empire, beyond what I have learned on the internet, that is.” Nathan cut into some honey baked ham, while he mixed it in with some brown gravy from his mashed potatoes.

The Princess sipped from her wine, listening to Nathan and nodded. “They say that there has always been an Emperor. The first was in the first century BC, with the throne always being occupied...if you ignore the many civil wars throughout our history where the throne was vacant. I have always found it odd that the people take such great pride in that claim,” she said with a laugh. She sipped her wine again, “My brother has been Emperor since 2008, when our father appointed him Junior Emperor. He’s been ruling on his own since 2012 though. He uh...he has a more hands on approach than our father ever did. Though he means well.”

“I see,” Nathan responded thoughtfully as he contemplated her words. “Are you familiar much with his policies, and how he intends to guide the Empire in the future?”

“I have an idea,” she replied. Isabella never cared much for politics, nor for placing herself in them though. “He tends to favor a more conservative approach, in regards to politics and policies, especially fiscally. But he and I tend to not discuss such things...and if we do, never at great length. He really only has those discussions with his inner circle,” she finished.

“A conservative approach...seems a very Roman thing to do, being a pragmatic people,” the Emperor said. “I can’t say I have ever taken much of an interest in politics...I suppose you have not either. After all, you did study Art History in university, if I recall correctly.” Nathan took another bite of his ham, and then cocked his head. “I have always been more interested in people. And I do wonder, my Princess, if favoring a...hands on approach runs in the family, or if that is a quality unique to your brother.”

“It has always been somewhat of a bore for me as well, Your Majesty,” she told him. And somewhat surprised that he had known what she studied in school. “You recall correctly, Your Majesty. Not a very difficult field of academics, I’m afraid,” she smiled at him some more. “Jason, I’m sorry, Caesar is very much like grandfather in that regard, attending to the Senate whenever time permitting, whereas our father was much more interested in his philosophy and was much more hands off. So, I suppose father was the unique one, Your Majesty.”

“I have heard that your father was a good man, who ruled long and well, and strode to do right. You have my condolences,” he inclined his head. “I lost my own father when I was six, and my grandfather the Emperor three years later. In a way I envy you for your ability to have gone to university and have more freedoms that your rank and station have afforded you. I think if had the opportunity to go to University, I would have studied history. That was always my favorite subject. Might have even taken some art history classes as well,” he finished with a grin. “If you could go back and do any of that differently, would you?”

“I’m sure father would say that he ruled about ten years longer than he would have liked. But thank you for the kind words, Your Majesty,” she thanked him. She finally took a small bit of some food while the Emperor continued. “Oh my, I’m so sorry. I can’t imagine what that must have been like, for you,” she said sympathetically. “History, uh? You and my brother have that in common then,” she said before pondering his next question. She paused, “One thing I would definitely do differently, would be not to attend that dreadful school I went to in Constantinople for my first two years. I just felt so...juvenile. Oddly enough I didn’t begin to enjoy university until I attended school in the capital,” she stated.

“Such is life, my Princess,” Nathan said as he dipped into some tapioca pudding. “We all make mistakes, do things that we regret. But, making mistakes isn’t as important as what you learn from making them. It is only by overcoming adversity and making mistakes that we learn, and grow as people,” he explained with a smile. “I fancy philosophy as well as history, as it were. And yes, while it might have seemed juvenile at the time, you seem quite wisened today, despite your still very youthful appearance.”

“You want to hear something funny, well I doubt you’ll find it as funny as I. But that is almost exactly what my father said to me at the time,” she said to him before taking an even larger drink of her wine. “You remind me of him, actually. You have his calm demeanor. And I think that I am beginning to run out of ways to thank you for all your kind words, Your Majesty,” she finished, grinning ever so obviously.

That made the Emperor laugh. “That is quite funny, and it is a great compliment indeed to be compared to such a great sovereign. And you need not worry about finding ways to thank me, my Princess. You thank me every mere moment, just by being here, gracing this country with your mere presence. Would that Ghant is worthy of it, beauty and refined graces all.”

“Well,” she said with a coy smile on her face, “perhaps I shall stop thanking you all together then.” For the first time since she sat at the table she took her eyes off of her immediate surroundings and looked upon all others in the room. Many were having their own conversations with their Ghantish counterparts, but her aide, Helene, made eye contact with Isabella and smiled at her, causing Isabella to quell her own smile.

“Oh, would you be so bold?” Nathan answered, facetiously. “And what if I were to skirt complements? Although what good would that do, for the sun doesn’t need to be told it is bright for it to know that it shines,” he smirked, before drinking some more wine.

Isabella laughed audibly, “I think I could be that bold, especially if I continue drinking this fine wine.” She finished her current glass and motioned for it to be filled once more. “But..my mother always told us never to be rude, so perhaps I should ignore my thought.”

“Wine does make a person more bold, and as the saying goes, fortune does favor the bold,” Nathan grinned sheepishly. “My mother taught me to beware beautiful women, for surely they know that the world is theirs. Dare I say that you seem very capable of wrapping it around your finger.”

“Is that the type of woman I strike you as, Your Majesty?” Isabella asked with a flirtatious smile, drinking from her recently filled glass.

“Indeed it does, for that, when combined with your birth, surely would make you the most desired bride in all the world. And yet, here you are,” Nathan said, returning the flirtatiousness. “Unlike other men of the world, suffice it to say I that I know a very good thing when I see it.”

“Flattered, Your Majesty,” Isabella replied. “Though I’m afraid...at times my birth has been as much a curse as it has a gift in that respect. Some men simply are not capable of all that comes with that. Most are not as astute as I take you to be, Nathan,” she said to him. She quickly realized she called the Emperor by his name and remember just how upset...or in her words, cranky her brother was when outsiders neglected to use proper forms of address, “I mean, Your Majesty.”

“Oh no, Nathan is quite fine...Isabella,” he pointed out with a smile. “I have always favored skewing formalities in favor of being personable. But you have piqued my curiosity all of a sudden...about how your birth has been as much a curse as a blessing. Would you be comfortable sharing?” he asked.

She let out a sigh of relief, “I’m always unsure, I know my brother can get quite upset when someone doesn’t address him properly.” She moved closer to Nathan, “No I don’t mind at all. Of course I enjoy the things that come with being a Princess, but I’ve had many a relationship ruined because of my status and my significant others inability to cope with media attention and the like. And I don’t hold that against them, its just at times I wish I could just leave the spotlight. Wow I bet that sounds odd,” she finished.

“Not at all,” the Emperor responded candidly. “Oftentimes I wish the same. Fortunately, it doesn’t penetrate the confines of the Palace. Although, I find this rather curious. Your sister married a highborn man from another nation...why didn’t you do the same? Is it because, maybe...you never really wanted to live by anyone’s expectations other than the ones you had for yourself? Sort of a...free spirit?” he wondered.

“All of my siblings are married to other highborns, with the exception of myself and my youngest sister, who will be marrying a commoner. In fact, my brother was once married to a commoner, the only time he’s ever loved, I’m convinced,” she spoke with honesty. “As to why I haven’t done so, I suppose you’re correct in saying that I’m a free spirit of sorts. I don’t like the idea of being a bargaining chip of my brothers, not to imply that my siblings don’t love their spouses,” she said firmly.

“So, the things you do you do for love?” Nathan asked her with a raised eyebrow. “Same for dating and relationships, I presume...you will only go where your heart allows.”

“Exactly,” she said. “I love my family and my brother with all my heart, but I won’t date or marry someone just because of who their father or ancestors were. And he’s called me a diva for this part,” she said giggling, “but I’ll only do so on my terms.”

“Really? So, if a man’s ancestors were great heroes and champions of old, or great lovers of whom songs are sung, and poems written, that wouldn’t appeal to you at all?” Nathan asked. “Here in Ghant, we have a saying. ‘Odolesango’...there is no word for it in Latin, but it generally means ‘blood will tell. That is, certain characteristics of a person are inherited, passed on down the line from one to the next. That it is the blood that lives, and the body a mere vessel for it by which it can exist in a tangible universe,” the Emperor explained softly.

“That certainly is interesting, Nathan. While not the same, it shares some similarities with the belief of reincarnation,” Isabella told him. “Though I can’t say I see it that way. I choose to honor the contributions my ancestors and the ancestors of others made, but I don’t necessarily find one more attractive because of those accomplishments. I’d rather look to their accomplishments and the ability they themselves hold,” she finished.

“A very noble position to take,” Nathan said with a nod, stroking his chin. “So tell me, in your capacity as Legate, what would you like to do while you are here in Ghish?”

“Naturally, I am here as a representative of my brother and the Latin people. But outside of any official duties, I would love to travel around the capital. Take it all in,” she said. Isabella leaned closer to the Emperor, “Perhaps a personal tour?” she suggested.

“...I was just thinking that myself,” Nathan said, leaning in a bit, eyes looming large. “I could certainly help you take it all in.”

She smiled, looked into his eyes and placed her hand on his leg, “I believe you could. I know I’ve had my fill at the table,” she said with a smirk, again finishing yet another glass of wine.

“Well, I am glad that I could see to it that you get your fill.” Nathan finished his glass of wine, and leaned back. “Considering that your flight was so long, you must be tired and eager for a comfortable bed. If you would like, I can give you a personal tour of some of the Palace before I see you to your chambers, or we could forgo that until tomorrow. All depends on how much of a hurry you are in to get into bed,” he offered with a playful grin.

“I know I would love to see some of the more...closed off areas of the Palace, Nathan,” she said. Isabella grabbed a nearby bottle of wine, “And I think between this bottle of wine and er...your company, I should be able to stay awake.”

“We shall see. I have been told I can be quite...exhausting at times,” he told her as he rose from his seat. He came around to where she was sitting and extended his arm to her. “If I may….and my servants shall see to it that your companions are shown to their chambers.”

“I suppose I’ll have to see how exhausting you are myself,” Isabella said to the Emperor as she placed her hand in his to stand from her seat.

“Be careful what you wish for, because you just might get it,” Nathan told her with a smirk. Once she up, he escorted her out of the room and into the hall. “The Palace took over twenty years to build, begun during the reign of the first Emperor of Ghant, Nathan I, and was completed in the 1820s. There are several levels and around 4,000 rooms...I don’t think I have even been in all of them...there are only a few that I say I frequent. There is one though, above all others, that you must see.”

Isabella walked with Nathan throughout the hall, hearing his every word, but not necessarily listening to what he was saying. She nodded while he spoke, perhaps not so interested in the subject matter, as much she was her guide. “That is fascinating, Nathan,” she said. She looked at him and playfully said, “Oh, and what room may that be?”

“This one,” he told her with a grin as he pushed open a door that set out a loud creak as it went. The room was empty as it was a dark...a cavernous rectangular room. There was a row of thick columns lining the way from the back of the room to the back, and a very long black and white patterned carpet running the length of the floor from the entrance to the elevated throne, the way illuminated by faint flickering light spawned by torches set in sconces upon the columns.

There before them sat the Obsidian Throne of Ghant, the large, twisted black structure that loomed large, a monolith of a long lost age, with its hard, glistening edges. Nathan beheld it, and then he began to explain. “The throne room...the oldest part of the Palace. The throne was forged in the fires of Mt. Arragard, to the north in the Kingdom of Arrautsa, in the year 912 by Robert of House Gentry, the first man to style himself King of Ghant. It took seventy seven days to forge, and upon its completion he had the men he defeated in battle haul it back to Ghish. They had to tear an entire wall of the old castle down to bring it in, and then they set it in place...and it has never moved since. This Palace was essentially built around it, because moving it was far too impractical. Robert often said that a king should never sit easy, and that a man cannot inspire awe, or fear, quite as a well as his throne could. And there it is.”

Nathan extended his hand to it. “Take a seat, if you would like...or if you dare.”

Her jaw just about dropped when she saw the Throne, it was nothing like her brothers throne. Much more elegant and much older than the physical Latin throne. She placed her hand in Nathan’s and for a moment hesitated, but she sat on the throne...feeling more powerful than she ever had before. “It’s magnificent, Nathan,” she told him. “A bit colder than I expected,” she said with a laugh and general lack for words at her amazement.

“Aye, it is cold, and hard. The steps leading up to it are steeped in history,” he said as he began to ascend the steps up to the hulking throne after her. “You certainly look as though the perch suits you,” he laughed, the sound echoing.

“Could use a pad, I think” she said referring to roughness of the seat. “But I believe I could get used to this,” Isabella smiled to Nathan. “This may seem like a silly question,” she laughed, “but do you sit here often or is this mainly for show and official functions now?”

“Depends, really,” Nathan nodded a the question, thinking it was a good one. “Depends on the Emperor, really. But me personally, there are two times where I will. The first is if I feel a need for excessive formality, such as when I am receiving a Lord that is either not fond of me, or whom I am not particularly fond of. Seeing me on it reminds them of who I am. The other time is if I want to be alone, and think...clear my mind. I will come in here and just sit there for a while, until my ass hurts so bad that I need to get off of it,” he said with a chuckle.

“That’s very interesting,” she told him. “I bet this is quite the room to think and ponder the questions of the universe,” she said poking some fun at Nathan. “But wow, you weren’t kidding about it being rough on the behind,” she said standing up from the Throne walking ever so closely to him. “Let me see how you look on it, Nathan.”

“Plenty of things here in the Palace are rough on the behind,” he said, sniggering, as he went the rest of the way up the steps and helped her up, before sitting down in her place. He leaned back into the throne, and let his arms rest there on the edges of it. He looked at her and smiled slightly with a raised eyebrow, as if to wait to hear what she had to say.

Isabella gave Nathan a playful push after his rough behind comment. She watched him sit down, and then finally come to a rest, “Perfect,” she said, “you look like you were born to rule, Nathan.”

“...You haven’t seen anything yet. Watch this.” Nathan cracked his knuckles, and then clapped twice. Then music began to fill the throne room from the unseen corners of it. “What an interesting choice of song that guys that installed the speaker system had in mind,” he grinned mischieviously.

“I’m sure it is on random,” she said jokingly. “What else do you have up your sleeves, mister,” asking while walking up the steps towards the seated Emperor.

“...That depends...on how badly you want to find out...” the Emperor smirked, still seated and listening to the song continuing to play. “...what’s up my sleeve.”

Isabella continued walking up the steps, quickly standing right in front of him. She placed her hands on the armrests of the throne, leaning over him. “I very badly want to find out, Your Majesty,” she said in a soft voice.

“Well, if you must know…” with the song still playing, and with Nathan sitting upon the Obsidian Throne, he looked up at Isabella, before leaning forward just enough to plant a kiss on her lips. In that moment, he waited to see how she would react…

She accepted the kiss from him, and slowly pulled back after a handful of seconds. Isabella looked him, then went in for another longer and more sensual kiss. While still kissing him, she moved her hands from the arm rest and sat on his lap across the Obsidian Throne.

While that was going on, the next song began to play. The Emperor returned the second kiss with a matching ferocity, as he pulled her down onto his lap. One hand went to stroke her hair and the other went to caress her thigh.

She continued kissing him, then pulled back, “I never do this sort of thing,” she said then immediately went back to kissing him. She wrapped one of her arms around him and pulled back once more, “I really don’t want you to think I’m some kind of….whore,” she said before again placing her lips on his once more.

“Never,” Nathan said softly into her ear. “You are anything but that,” he said before kissing her again with great zeal and using his deft hands to feel her body.

She grabbed one of his hands and moved it to her back so he could unzip her dress. Isabella continued to be focused on his lips, while his other hand moved around her body.

The Princess laid there, almost motionless, if not for her heavy breathing. She then rested her head on his shoulder and kissed it, before looking him in the eyes and placing her lips on his once more.

The Emperor clapped twice, and the music turned off, returning the throne room to a silence as profound as a crypt. He stroked her hair with one hand and ran his fingers down her spine with the other, before returning the kiss and saying, “we should get you back to your chambers, Isabella. Get you under the blankets,” he laughed.

She looked up at him with perhaps the largest smile she had ever shown, “You’re right...we should.” Though slightly concerned that someone may see her and that it could compromise her position, she did not care. After relaxing in his arms, she eventually collected her clothes as best she could in the dark throne room.

Nathan quickly slipped back into his clothes, and then once she was ready, he extended his arm to her so that he could escort her out of the throne room and back down the hall. He did take advantage of any opportunity to touch her and kiss her while they got ready to go.

Isabella hurried to find her clothes, though Nathan made it difficult, “stop it,” she laughed. She eventually gathered her things and took the Emperor’s arm. “Shall we,” she said to him with a smile.

“Indeed,” Nathan smiled back as he led her out and down the hall. “So...that’s the throne room in all its splendor,” he told her. “It is very pleasing to know that you found it as...appealing as you did,” the Emperor laughed as they walked. “Now as for your chambers, they are quite accommodating. Large bed, very comfortable mattress, soft pillows and cozy blankets. Flat screen TV with the full cable package, bathroom with all the things a lady might require, and a walk-in closet. Oh and the other usual things, like dressers, table, coffee table and furniture. Also a balcony.”

“I can see why the throne room was...a must see. I’m not sure any other room in the Palace or part of the city could, um top that” she said to him. She walked into her quarters, a lovely room, she thought. “I suppose this room will have to do,” Isabella said in a joking tone. She wrapped her arms around one of his and said, “I can’t thank you enough for your hospitality, Your Majesty.”

That made the Emperor laugh. “Yes, very few places in Ghish can hope to match the majesty of the throne room.” Once they arrived at her chambers, Nathan took note of the fact that her luggage was all in place in her room, and that there were some refreshments and fruits on the table. The Emperor shut the door behind them, and while Isabella held one of his hands, with the other, he reached behind his back and turned the lock, loud enough to be heard. “Yes, this room will do quite nicely. And for you, my hospitality requires no thanks. It is enough to know that you are greatly appreciative,” he explained to her with a smirk, gazing deep into her eyes and bringing his free hand around to brush her cheek.

“You really didn’t need to go through all of this trouble for me, Nathan,” Isabella said seeing the room was prepared in such high fashion and that all her things were already there. She heard the click of the door lock and turned to face him, kissing him on the cheek. Throwing her shoes to the side, she let go of his hand and walked to the refreshments. “I’m not sure about you, but I am absolutely famished,” she said to him. She bit into an apple, and laid across the neatly made bed...gazing upon him.

"I can assure you, the trouble is worth it," he chuckled as he went to the refrigerator and found a pitcher of water. He poured himself a glass of it from a glass in the cabinet, and then he downed it. "Very refreshing," he grinned as laid next to her on the bed and started playing with her hair, returning the gaze.

“Very,” she winked at him. Taking the last bite of her apple and placing the remains to the side, she laid her head on his chest, feeling his every breath. She could just about fall asleep, as he ran his hands through her long hair.

He laid there as well for a time, stroking her hair and rubbing her arms and back, enjoying the feeling of her resting her head upon his chest. "You seem pretty drained," he spoke to her softly.

It took her a moment to respond, “I think you are the one that is drained, Your Majesty” she laughed to him. Isabella ran her fingers over his body in random patterns.

Nathan laughed. "Don't be so sure, Isabella...I am fully capable of proving otherwise..." the Emperor took her hand and began to kiss it.

“Oh, I don’t doubt that,” she told him, knowing where this could again lead. She ran her hand further down him and then turned her back, nuzzling into him.

"Very keen you are," he chuckled as he then laid on top of her, kissing her again as he caressed her body with his hands. The room was quiet and dimly lit towards the back, and the Emperor enjoyed the setting quite a bit. Whereas the throne room felt rushed, this was a far more private, and intimate setting.

She kissed him back, and pulled away to yawn. “Sorry for that,” she said proceeding to kiss him once more, running her hands ever so wildly across his body. Tired as she was, she didn’t want the night to end.

"No need to apologize," he responded as he drew the covers out from underneath them and pulled them over. Then under the blankets he began working at removing her clothes. "See who passes out first eh?"

She shuffled to remove what remained of her clothing and threw what she could as far as possible. “Is that a challenge? I think I know a way to ensure it is you,” she said rather fiercely. She rolled on top of him and kissed him, moving all the way down him until she was hidden under the blankets.

“Wow. That was...something else,” she uttered from beneath him. She rolled herself out from underneath the Emperor, then moved to stand at the end of the large bed. Walking over to a table, as naked as the day she was born, she poured a glass of water and took a sip out of it. Isabella looked to him and said with her playful smile, “So...does this mean you passed out first?”

Nathan laughed. “I’m not asleep yet,” he said, laying on his back in bed. “And besides, you cheated by trying to get me to come first there at the end. Don’t think I am not wise to your tricks!”

“If you’re not cheating, you’re not trying hard enough,” she snickered. “At least that’s what my brother says. And besides, it is not as if you didn’t enjoy my...tricks.”

“...Point well taken,” he responded, sitting up in bed and wiping the sweat from his brow. “I think you enjoyed my tricks too...got plenty more too.”

“You think so?” she smiled at him. She placed her empty glass of water on a nearby table and crawled back into the bed. “I don’t doubt you have endless surprises, Your Majesty,” Isabella said kissing him once more.

“...I am pretty good at keeping it coming,” he laughed as he wrapped his arms around her and returned the kiss, before pulling the blanket over them both.

IIwiki Admin · by **Ghant** » Mon Jan 11, 2016 12:06 pm

Inperiala Palace
Ghish, Ghant
Summer 2015

The Emperor clapped twice, and the music turned off, returning the throne room to a silence as profound as a crypt. He stroked her hair with one hand and ran his fingers down her spine with the other, before returning the kiss and saying, “we should get you back to your chambers, Isabella. Get you under the blankets,” he laughed.

She looked up at him with perhaps the largest smile she had ever shown, “You’re right...we should.” Though slightly concerned that someone may see her and that it could compromise her position, she did not care. After relaxing in his arms, she eventually collected her clothes as best she could in the dark throne room.

Nathan quickly slipped back into his clothes, and then once she was ready, he extended his arm to her so that he could escort her out of the throne room and back down the hall. He did take advantage of any opportunity to touch her and kiss her while they got ready to go.

Isabella hurried to find her clothes, though Nathan made it difficult, “stop it,” she laughed. She eventually gathered her things and took the Emperor’s arm. “Shall we,” she said to him with a smile.

“Indeed,” Nathan smiled back as he led her out and down the hall. “So...that’s the throne room in all its splendor,” he told her. “It is very pleasing to know that you found it as...appealing as you did,” the Emperor laughed as they walked. “Now as for your chambers, they are quite accommodating. Large bed, very comfortable mattress, soft pillows and cozy blankets. Flat screen TV with the full cable package, bathroom with all the things a lady might require, and a walk-in closet. Oh and the other usual things, like dressers, table, coffee table and furniture. Also a balcony.”

“I can see why the throne room was...a must see. I’m not sure any other room in the Palace or part of the city could, um top that” she said to him. She walked into her quarters, a lovely room, she thought. “I suppose this room will have to do,” Isabella said in a joking tone. She wrapped her arms around one of his and said, “I can’t thank you enough for your hospitality, Your Majesty.”

That made the Emperor laugh. “Yes, very few places in Ghish can hope to match the majesty of the throne room.” Once they arrived at her chambers, Nathan took note of the fact that her luggage was all in place in her room, and that there were some refreshments and fruits on the table. The Emperor shut the door behind them, and while Isabella held one of his hands, with the other, he reached behind his back and turned the lock, loud enough to be heard. “Yes, this room will do quite nicely. And for you, my hospitality requires no thanks. It is enough to know that you are greatly appreciative,” he explained to her with a smirk, gazing deep into her eyes and bringing his free hand around to brush her cheek.

“You really didn’t need to go through all of this trouble for me, Nathan,” Isabella said seeing the room was prepared in such high fashion and that all her things were already there. She heard the click of the door lock and turned to face him, kissing him on the cheek. Throwing her shoes to the side, she let go of his hand and walked to the refreshments. “I’m not sure about you, but I am absolutely famished,” she said to him. She bit into an apple, and laid across the neatly made bed...gazing upon him.

"I can assure you, the trouble is worth it," he chuckled as he went to the refrigerator and found a pitcher of water. He poured himself a glass of it from a glass in the cabinet, and then he downed it. "Very refreshing," he grinned as laid next to her on the bed and started playing with her hair, returning the gaze.

“Very,” she winked at him. Taking the last bite of her apple and placing the remains to the side, she laid her head on his chest, feeling his every breath. She could just about fall asleep, as he ran his hands through her long hair.

He laid there as well for a time, stroking her hair and rubbing her arms and back, enjoying the feeling of her resting her head upon his chest. "You seem pretty drained," he spoke to her softly.

It took her a moment to respond, “I think you are the one that is drained, Your Majesty” she laughed to him. Isabella ran her fingers over his body in random patterns.

Nathan laughed. "Don't be so sure, Isabella...I am fully capable of proving otherwise..." the Emperor took her hand and began to kiss it.

“Oh, I don’t doubt that,” she told him, knowing where this could again lead. She ran her hand further down him and then turned her back, nuzzling into him.

"Very keen you are," he chuckled as he then laid on top of her, kissing her again as he caressed her body with his hands. The room was quiet and dimly lit towards the back, and the Emperor enjoyed the setting quite a bit. Whereas the throne room felt rushed, this was a far more private, and intimate setting.

She kissed him back, and pulled away to yawn. “Sorry for that,” she said proceeding to kiss him once more, running her hands ever so wildly across his body. Tired as she was, she didn’t want the night to end.

"No need to apologize," he responded as he drew the covers out from underneath them and pulled them over. Then under the blankets he began working at removing her clothes. "See who passes out first eh?"

She shuffled to remove what remained of her clothing and threw what she could as far as possible. “Is that a challenge? I think I know a way to ensure it is you,” she said rather fiercely. She rolled on top of him and kissed him, moving all the way down him until she was hidden under the blankets.

“Wow. That was...something else,” she uttered from beneath him. She rolled herself out from underneath the Emperor, then moved to stand at the end of the large bed. Walking over to a table, as naked as the day she was born, she poured a glass of water and took a sip out of it. Isabella looked to him and said with her playful smile, “So...does this mean you passed out first?”

Nathan laughed. “I’m not asleep yet,” he said, laying on his back in bed. “And besides, you cheated by trying to get me to come first there at the end. Don’t think I am not wise to your tricks!”

“If you’re not cheating, you’re not trying hard enough,” she snickered. “At least that’s what my brother says. And besides, it is not as if you didn’t enjoy my...tricks.”

“...Point well taken,” he responded, sitting up in bed and wiping the sweat from his brow. “I think you enjoyed my tricks too...got plenty more too.”

“You think so?” she smiled at him. She placed her empty glass of water on a nearby table and crawled back into the bed. “I don’t doubt you have endless surprises, Your Majesty,” Isabella said kissing him once more.

“...I am pretty good at keeping it coming,” he laughed as he wrapped his arms around her and returned the kiss, before pulling the blanket over them both.

by **Lacus Magni** » Mon Jan 11, 2016 12:09 pm

Inperiala Palace
Ghish, Ghant
Summer 2015

The sun shined through the balcony windows on to the large bed where a sleeping Isabella laid with the Emperor of Ghant. The sunlight hit her face, causing her eyes to slowly open. Turning to face the center of the bed, her eyes caught Nathan laying there with his back to her. Looking at him up and down, Isabella noticed a number of scares on his back and even on his arm. I didn’t grip into him that hard did I? she thought.

She yawned and turned over facing out towards the room. While she had a truly magical night, maybe even one of the best in her life, she remembered that Nathan was married.

Had I done something horrible…dishonest, she thought. Though he was just as involved as she was, she couldn’t help but shake the thought that she had been guiltier. She slowly climbed out of the large bed so not to disturb Nathan. Walking towards her luggage, she grabbed a robe to cover herself and grab something from the table to eat and maybe a cup of coffee.

“My head,” she said quietly. I haven’t drunk that much since college, she thought. She opened the balcony doors and walked to the edge. She looked down, seeing how high up she was, and then looked outward towards the horizon and rising sun. In fact, last night reminded her so much of her college days. Running around going to parties with Alexandra, causing nothing but trouble. Often times with similar results as the night before.

It wasn’t only her head, her whole body felt sore. She leaned to one side to stretch, and then to the other. She stood on her tiptoes and arched her back, her hair falling just above her waist. Last night was something else, she thought. But she still couldn’t shake the guilt of sleeping with a married man.

Isabella overlooked the country, marveling in its beauty. She always enjoyed watching the sunrise over a cityscape, whether in Castellum, Constantinople or now in Ghish. Admiring the beauty of the sunlight as it peered through the city below, Isabella backed into a nearby chair. While not as comfortable as the bed, she relaxed, enjoying the morning breeze brush against her skin.

And did he say he loved me? I’m pretty sure that’s what he said. It could have been the heat of the moment. We had met only hours before, how could he love me after that, she thought. Isabella was normally one who took people for their word and their actions, not typically worried if they had ulterior motives. Her brother was a monarch, just as Nathan, and her brother was very cunning and manipulative. He always had another play in mind, and Isabella was no stranger to his ways. But she felt something different about Nathan, and she certainly didn't feel that Nathan gave off the same vibe as her brother.

IIwiki Admin · by **Ghant** » Mon Jan 11, 2016 12:18 pm

Inperiala Palace
Ghish, Ghant
Summer 2015

The Emperor slept soundly and deeply, rolling around as he did in the night, shifting from sleeping on his sides, stomach and back. When he finally did wake up, the morning sun was shining upon the room, and the bed. Rather than get up, Nathan groaned and rolled over to one side, still with his eyes closed.

Holy shit was last night good, he thought. It was incredible...and different. And it was so hot. It certainly made him feel alive and well...and it had been a long time since he was with a woman as eager as she...and as highborn. The sister of an Emperor...now that’s worth something right there. Nathan smiled and opened his eyes a little to let the light in. His hair was a mess and he felt a bit sticky…no surprise there.

He didn’t really think anything bad about what had happened. After all, he hadn’t been with his wife but one night in the past six months, and besides, it was god to be the Emperor...who would blame him if he dallied a bit on the side anyway? Surely Isabella didn’t seem to mind...he doubted Gaudentia would mind. This was all good, clean fun, and she was a grown woman...she knew what she was getting herself into. She enjoyed it, he enjoyed it, so there was no cause for any issue.

Then he stretched out his arms and yawned, before sitting up and pushing himself out of bed. Cracking his knuckles, he turned to see Isabella in a robe sitting in a chair with something to eat. “Hello beautiful,” he said to her as he walked over to the balcony, naked as the day he was born. He looked out over the city at all the old architecture, and stuck his ass out a bit to tease her. Stretching again, he said through another yawn, “what a nice day it is today...such lovely weather. Warm, but with that cool ocean breeze being carried in on the winds.”

Beginning to hum a love song, he turned and smiled at her before heading into the bathroom to take a pee. “You know, my princess,” he said from the bathroom. “You certainly have a way about you. I pity all the fools that let you slip from their fingers.” The Emperor finished up in the bathroom, and then reemerged after washing his hands and groin.

He went to the refrigerator and poured himself a glass of pomegranate juice. He thoroughly drained it, and then said, “I don’t know about you, but suddenly I am finding myself quite hungry. Might have to procure some breakfast, eh? I can even have it brought up...but don’t worry, I would have a robe on. I don’t let everyone see me naked, after all,” he said with a grin as he circled around to the back of Isabella’s chair.

Nathan proceeded to put his hands on her shoulders, and began massaging them, along with her neck and back in short order. “I think it is good to relax, and just be yourself...not worry about more than you have to. Take life as it comes. I think you are a good person who deserves good things.”

Isabella couldn’t take her eyes off of Nathan as he pranced in front of her, something about him just drew her in. Even though he spoke, she heard none of his words. Only focused on his body and again to her thoughts. She sat for a moment, silent, enjoying the massage he was giving her. His hands running along her shoulders and backside soothed her sore body. “That feels absolutely heavenly,” she said about the massage. Becoming more awake and focused she eventually said, “Some breakfast would be lovely, Nathan.”

“That’s what I thought,” he said with a chuckle. “And do you have any ideas as to what you would like to eat? The breakfast sausage is pretty good…”

“Is Ghant known for breakfast sausage, you dirty boy,” Isabella laughed. “I’m not terribly picky, and I’m so hungry I think I could just about eat anything. Surprise me, I suppose.”

“Oh, it most certainly is,” Nathan said teasingly as he massaged her. “You’ll see.” With that, he stopped for a minute to go digging around in his tunic. Then he found his phone, and started texting. After a few seconds, he set it on the nightstand and walked back over. “...And it’s done. Surprise inbound,” he told her. As he moved slipped his hands inside her robe, towards her bosom. “More than one inbound, it would seem…”

She moaned quietly as he fondled her breast, then the thoughts of guilt took over her mind once more. “You have a wife,” she stated, “I...I…” she didn’t know what to say.

Nathan paused for a moment, taking note of her discomfort. Then he began to explain. “A wife I seldom see and have only shared a bed with but once in over six months,” he explained. “It’s not like I can become a monk, you know. And besides, you seem to like me, and I certainly seem to like you...no harm in that, right?” he asked as he resumed once more. “Don’t feel guilty...I certainly don’t,” he said before kissing the back of her neck.

“...I did enjoyed last night,” she said. Isabella worked out her reasoning in her head before responding. She was rather taken with Nathan, and she appreciated his honesty. “No. No harm in that I suppose.” She moved her head towards her shoulder when he began kissing her neck. Isabella was now curious why Nathan was no longer close with his wife, but did not press the issue, she much rather would let him continue kissing her neck.

“As did I,” Nathan said with a smile as he caressed her bosom and kissed her neck. “And the breakfast sausage will be coming very soon. Think you can handle it?”

“If it is anything like the late night snack sausage...I know I can,” she grinned reaching her arm back, blindly feeling around his lower regions for something.

“Oh, you certainly seem hungry...you weren’t lying,” he laughed as he freed a hand from her robe to guide the one fumbling around his lower regions to his groin. “The morning variety is quite stiff.”

Stiff doesn’t do it justice, she thought. Isabella touched him softly at first, teasing him up and down with her one hand. Soon though, she wrapped her hand around and slowly pulled him around in front of her. “You have a knack for making me hungry, Your Majesty,” she said softly. She looked him in the eyes, “In all seriousness though, I am starving,” she said with a giggle.

The Emperor gasped softly when she grabbed him and pulled him around to the front of her. “That’s good, because I happen to have all the nourishment you require…”

There was a knock on the door just then, and Nathan looked at her with a raised eyebrow. “See?” then he grinned, planting a kiss on her lips before walking off to the closet to fish for a robe. “There we go,” he said as he found a black robe laced with white. He put it on and wrapped it around his waist before heading to the door. Opening it, he said “thank you,” before taking the tray from the servant and bringing it in himself. He set it on the coffee table in front of the couch...two large breakfast burritos with hot sauce. “Sausage in those...lots of meat...just the way you like it.”

Isabella just about jumped up when she smelled the food. She walked in to where Nathan set the tray down. She glared at Nathan when he let out his latest word play. “Oh, does the Emperor think he’s funny?” she asked playfully. Grabbing one of the burritos, she smiled at him, then instead of keeping a playful face, bit right into the burrito and laughed.

“Indeed I do...seems like you do too...you can’t even put it in your mouth without being amused,” he laughed. “Granted I do enjoy watching you put it in your mouth,” he laughed some more, before downing his glass of milk, and picking up his burrito. “And so big too!”

She finished chewing the rather large bite she took, “I do...its kind of adorable actually” she said. Placing her food down after another bite she nodded, “but I’ve seen bigger,” she giggled.

“Oh, have you now?” Nathan chuckled in between bites. “Well, it’s not the size that counts but how you use it. All it has to do is hit the spot, which is certainly seems to be the case around here,” he said before taking a large bite, filled with sausage, ham, bacon, tomatoes, green peppers and scrambled eggs. Then he sneaked a bare foot over towards Isabella’s.

“Thats what they say,” she laughed. Isabella moved closer to Nathan when she saw his foot move towards hers. “Though, some are lucky enough to have that killer combination,” she finished.

“Here at the Palace, that seems true enough,” he said with a grin as he chewed, before footsing her. “I wonder how the meat is back in the Latin Empire...is it as hardy?”

“A princess doesn’t...kiss and tell, Your Majesty,” Isabella joked. “It’s simply not proper etiquette,” she laughed to him.

“Oh, we are observing proper etiquette now, are we your highness?” he laughed. “Fair enough...but just so you know, that might mean you would need to supplicate me on your knees next time you mean to beseech me. Are you prepared to get on your knees?” he asked, but laughed again, seeing as how he couldn’t keep a straight face.

Isabella nearly burst out in laughter. “Why of course, Your Majesty,” she nodded. “I always observe proper forms of etiquette, especially when a man of such a high standing opens his home to a Princess in such a manner.”

“Good...I will hold you to it then,” he grinned. The Emperor quickly scarfed down the rest of his burrito, and then he got up. “I don’t open my home for just any princess, I would have you know. Only princess that have magic spellcasting abilities...and I only know one of those,” he laughed all the way to to the table, where the fruit and pitcher of water were.

“Of course, Your Majesty,” she nodded, placing her food on the table. “It just so happens that I know of such a princess. The finest abilities in all the world,” Isabella looked up to Nathan, running her fingers over the fold of her robe.

“Your Highness,” Nathan suddenly said, pretending to be sincere. “If you wish to address me as a supplicant, I will require you to kneel,” he said as he approached her with a mischievous look on his face. “Then we can see about these abilities.”

“Forgive me, Your Majesty,” Isabella said softly. She dropped down on both knees, placing her hands on top of each, then inched forward until she was hardly an inch away from him.

The Emperor ran his fingers through her hair then. “You are forgiven, your highness...now, what do you have for me, now that you have my undivided attention?”

“...I just saved a few for later. A good magician never reveals all of his tricks at once,” he said as he caressed and kissed her back. “Now that I think about it...last night you said you wanted to get a tour. Can’t do that if all we do is hang out in here and have sex all day. Although if you wanted to do that, I wouldn’t be opposed,” he laughed.

“Well that certainly was magical,” she said. These last 24 hours have been magical, she thought to herself. Isabella grinned and turn over, “As much as I’d love to stay locked in this room with you,” she kissed him, “I would still enjoy that tour. And besides, I need to appear to be doing the job my brother appointed me to.”

“Yes, of course,” he said. “Plenty of time for lock-ins, after all,” he mused as he pushed himself up and walked into the bathroom. “Should probably take a bath first. I smell like...too much fun. You do too, and the smell of it makes me lusty,” he laughed. Then he turned on the water.

“A bath is a must,” Isabella said brushing sweat from her forehead. She labored standing up, worn from their most recent deed. I could soak in that damn bath all day, she thought walking towards the bathroom.

The water was warm, but the wine was cool...a chilled bottle of red wine there on the edge of the tub, deep and wide. He climbed in and was pouring glasses when Isabella entered. “A bath is a must, considering the lust,” he mused, offering her a hand so she could get in with ease.

Isabella took his hand, slowly sinking into the bath, “Thank you, Your Majesty.” She relaxed in the warm water, all but her head submerged, “Must and lust. quite the rhymer,” she laughed. “You know that reminds me, when I met your sister yesterday, she told me that you recite your own poetry.”

“That I do, Isabella,” he said with a grin as he maneuvered so that she might be lying against him in the tub. “In fact, I wrote one out in my head. Would you like to hear it?” he asked her as he handed her a glass of wine.

“I’d love to,” Isabella said to him. She shook her head, “Oh, no wine for me please though. The thought of more wine after the amount I drank last night is making me woozy,” she giggled.

“Of course,” Nathan said as he deftly downed his glass and hers in quick succession, then setting the empty glasses aside as he cleared his throat.

“She descended upon me in the manner night embraces city streets,
wrapping her legs tight around me just to feel complete,
& once the moonlight-shone silk that she called skin
situated me within her, she could barely conceal the grin
that spread like the chill across my sensitive flesh
when exposed to the blissful breeze that was borne from her breath
when it brushed against my neck- sweat scented like the sea
became free as he plus she equaled we- ascending in degree
like a seductive summer symphony of sultry situations,
we insisted upon securing momentary consecration
& as the evening evolved earnestly, we repeatedly and eagerly
conducted electricity with the power of our intimacy-
intricately we explored until the night became no more,
& as the sunrise beckoned, I heard two words I've never heard before-

‘Carpe Noctem’-

indeed, we seized the night
& now we both hold tightly onto
the memories of when we
changed each others lives....

Angels exist- I've even seen some sleep.....”

“Beautiful,” Isabella said to him. She kissed him once on the cheek. “And you just came up with that? Remarkable,” she stated.

“Well, not just now...more like during the course of yesterday and today,” he smiled. “I have a photogenic memory...I can write things in my head, and then recite them from memory. That was one such.”

“Impressive nonetheless,” she told him. “Not too many have that ability,” she smiled back.

“Not too many have some of yours either,” he said as he splashed her with some of the water, playfully of course, before reaching for the shampoo and conditioner.

The Princess smiled, then attempted to block the splash of water. “You’re too kind, Your Majesty,” she said teasing him.

Nathan proceeded to dump water on her head, and then took to shampooing it. “So…” he said as he massaged her scalp. “Did you know that your birthday is just one day after mine?”

“Is it?” she stated, “quite the coincidence, uh.”

“Easy to remember,” he said as he rinsed her hair. “And...that means that we can both have birthday sex on the same night...how about that?” he sniggered.

“Confident one, aren’t we Nathan?” she chuckled to him.

“Very,” he answered as he began to scrub her back with a loofah. “I am confident that you fancy my confidence.” Nathan continued to wash her body and scrub her clean, and then he realized something. “So, about the tour. Ghish is a big city...and a very old one. The eastside is old, with palaces and museums, the westside is new, with lots of parks and fancy homes and plazas, the southside is the downtown, and then the northside is the uptown...and that’s where all the fun is had. Where do you want to go first?”

“Certainly one of the things I fancy,” Isabella said. “Hmm,” she thought quickly, “I see enough ancient and stuffy cities or parts of cities back home. Perhaps the southside. Yes, southside would be good.”

...My least favorite part of town, Nathan thought. “Consider it done...southside it is, then. Do you know what you want to wear? Don’t say ‘you,’” he laughed.

“I was thinking I would dress down a tad, perhaps something a bit more casual,” Isabella said. “Pretend I’m a simple plebian,” she laughed. “No need to waltz through downtown in a tiara. What do you think?” she asked him.

“Yes, that would be very nice.” Having said that, he disappeared under the water, and then came back up. “Your turn to shampoo my hair. Then I will get out of here and go change into something presentable for the public.”

Isabella maneuvered behind Nathan, brushing up against him and grabbed the bottle of shampoo. She moved it throughout his hair, “Must make His Majesty presentable, I know just how filthy your hair was,” in reference to the night before.

“I don’t know about you, but I certainly don’t mind being filthy. After all, we are but mere animals in the end...might as well behave like it when circumstances permit,” he said with his eyes closed and a grin on his face as she worked his scalp.

“I am a Princess,” she said in frilly accent, “never an animal.” She finished scrubbing through his hair and began to rinse the shampoo out. “Though I may be as fierce as an animal at times,” Isabella laughed. “And there we are,” she said sending water over his head one last time, “the filth is all gone.”

“For now,” he smirked as he turned around and kissed her. “Thank you...you are a good bathing partner. Time to get the show on the road.” With that, he got out and grabbed a towel to dry himself off. In the light of the bathroom, the numerous scars on his back, arms and legs were much more noticeable.

“Thank you, Nathan,” Isabella said. She rose out of the water, grabbing a nearby towel. She watched him as he stood in the bathroom, noticing his many scars. “There has got to be a story behind those, because I know I did not sink my claws into you that hard,” Isabella asked.

“...I became Emperor at the age of nine, and at that time, my uncle Albert became Lord Regent of Ghant. He was a cruel, wicked and grave man that had little affection for me. He would put a sword in my hand and put me in the training yard with his swordsmen to train me how to fight, if only because of things like discipline, agility, timing, endurance...all those things. But I was a soft, weak boy...inclined to books and gentle things, not sword play. And I was clumsy too. Didn’t stop him though...he kept me out there anyway, and said it was good for me. I never did learn how to fight properly, although I can hold my own with a blade. I would certainly hope so, considering how much I was made to suffer for it.” Nathan sighed as he dried his body and his hair.

He continued. “I never want my sons to go through what I did...I mean to live very long, so they can live their lives and only ascend the throne once they are truly well and ready.”

“Oh my god,” Isabella gasped, “that’s horrible. She walked up behind him and wrapped her arms around him. “I’m so sorry you had to go through that. I can’t imagine what it must have been like.” She thought of her own childhood, both parents living well into her adulthood. “What a wretched man,” she said, “I hope you locked him in a dungeon or something.”

“I told him I wanted him gone when I came of age, which was my birthday in the year 2006...8 ½ years into my rule. He obliged me and went off to his fief...then he moved to another country where he is an Emperor all his own,” Nathan told her as he returned her embrace and kissed her.

“Well,” she said rubbing his arm, “at least he’s gone. And besides, cruel people always get what they deserve.” Isabella smiled at him, “I should go throw some clothes on. Certainly can’t parade around the city looking like this.” She exited the bathroom and moved towards the closet where her things had been laid out. Picking through the limited selection of casual clothes she had, Isabella grabbed a pair of dark blue jeans and slide into them, followed by a powder blue flannel patterned top. After some dilly dallying in the closet, she exited into the much larger room, buttoning her top.

I would certainly like to believe that. “You look very good in that,” he told her after he finished in the bathroom. He threw on a robe, and then proceeded to walk over to her. He wrapped his arms around her waist and drew her in for a saucy kiss. “I need to head back to my chambers to find something to wear. You can either come with me or stay here and get a few things in order as I get dressed.”

“Why thank you,” Isabella smiled. “Uh no,” she returned the kiss. “You go, I have to umm, tidy some things up. And I think me going with you would just slow you down,” she grinned to him.

“...Or speed things up,” he laughed as he kissed her again and gathered up his clothes from the night before. “Alright, I will leave you to it. Until later,” he said with a smile as he walked to the door, leaning in it for a moment.

Isabella laughed, glaring at Nathan leaning in the doorway, “I don’t see any way in which I speed you up...” She placed one hand on the door knob and held his hand with the other before he could leave, “till later,” and kissed him another time. “I swear I’m not trying to push you out,” she joked.

“Oh believe me I know, especially consider how much effort you put into pulling me in,” he laughed as he kissed her back and stroked her hair. “If you don’t see how you speed me up, well, I will show you later,” he said with a grin before slipping away into the hallway.

She watched him as he walked away, being unable to take her eyes off him. Isabella closed the door and walked back out to the balcony, grabbing some fruit off the table as she passed. Leaning on the edge she looked out towards the city, then down below before again looking out to the city. Her mind was racing through, mostly thoughts of Nathan, a few of home. Taking a final bite of the apple she had been eating, she looked down over the balcony once more and dropped the barren core over the edge. Shoes, she thought, hopefully I brought something that can handle running around a city dressed like a pleb.

IIwiki Admin · by **Ghant** » Mon Jan 11, 2016 12:36 pm

Inperiala Palace
Ghish, Ghant
Summer 2015

The Emperor of Ghant whistled as he went down the hall, past courtiers and servants who inclined their heads. It wasn’t an uncommon sight to see the Emperor walk around in robes or pajamas, as he had a reputation for being an eccentric and someone that didn’t like the excessive formalities of his predecessors. Eventually, he arrived back in his chambers, and straight to the walk in closet he went.

He didn’t really like wearing new things...he stuck to what he knew and was comfortable with. An old, worn pair of slacks and a tunic that he felt comfortable in. This one was blue and green with gold buttons down the middle, with blue-green slacks and black shoes. He brushed his hair again as well as his teeth, and then when he was ready he made the necessary arrangements for the tour. The Emperor contacted his security and his drivers to let them know, and then he walked out and down the hall towards the carport.

That was when he walked into his sister Amelia, who had her arms folded. “Hey, what did you think of that Latin Princess?” she asked him.

“...Uh...she’s pretty cool,” he responded, without much flair.

“Yeah...she seems pretty nice,” she told him as she leaned up against a corner in the hallway. “I heard some music playing in the Throne Room.”

“I was testing the new sound systems last night.” Nathan pointed out, and wondering what she was on about.

“I also...err, nevermind.” Amelia shrugged and cocked her head. “Whatcha doing now?”

“I was going to give the Ambassador Princess a tour of the city,” Nathan responded in earnest. “Southside first.”

“Oh? Can I come too?” Amelia beamed.

“...I am afraid it is a strictly private matter,” Nathan sighed. “Maybe next time.”

“...hmm...alright,” she said with narrowed eyes. “Maybe next time, then,” she said as she slinked away down the hall.

Nathan watched her leave and then continued on his way down towards where the cars were. He had arranged for Isabella’s room to be informed of this as well.

Isabella had been fingering through the book her father wrote before he died. She had never been very interested in philosophy, at least not to the degree her father was. But since his passing she always traveled with a copy. A knock at the door pulled her attention away from the book. She opened the door finding a servant at the other end, “Your Highness, a car is awaiting.”

“Thank you,” she nodded. Isabella turned around placing the book on the unkempt bed before exiting the room.

Out in the hall from around a corner stepped a tall, shapely and slender woman with fair, unblemished skin and long, flowing black hair. She was wearing a white court gown that left her shoulders and collarbone bare. She had a soft, yet sad smile on face, and deep, haunting blue eyes. “Princess Isabella of the Latin Empire, I presume?” she asked, with only the hint of a raised eyebrow.

Isabella looked at the woman, having only a slim idea of who she was. “Yes,” the Princess replied softly. She attempted not to have a mini panic attack, feeling the woman in front of her was Nathan’s wife. “I’m sorry,” she said, “I don’t believe I’ve had the pleasure of meeting you before.”

“Of course,” the woman said as she did a deep curtsey. “I am Princess Sophia of Dakmoor, Empress of Ghant. It is a great pleasure to meet you, and to welcome you into our home,” she said with a smile, flashing straight, pearly white teeth. “Have you been finding your time at the Palace to your satisfaction thus far?”

“Your Majesty,” Isabella bowed her head slightly, “an honor.” Doing her best to not let on to anything, she smiled, though not as wide as the Empress, “Everything is lovely. You have a truly beautiful home and country. Well...at least from what I saw from the flight and drive in,” she laughed.

“Of course, and thank you. It is a lovely country, if not a troublesome one to rule,” she chuckled. “I understand that my husband the Emperor has been entertaining you...have you found him to be helpful in your acclimation?” Sophia asked.

“Yes, he has, Your Majesty. Nothing but a gentleman, your husband is,” Isabella grinned ever so slightly before covering it up with a smile. “In fact, he was just setting me up with a tour of the city.”

“Yes, that he is,” Sophia responded as she studied the other woman’s face. “Well, I won’t keep you from it. I was just hoping to catch you this morning.” The Empress stepped aside so Isabella could pass. “I hope you enjoy seeing the city.”

“Of course, Your Majesty, thank you. And honor to meet you, maybe we’ll have some time to chat a bit longer next time around,” Isabella said. I fucking hope not, she thought. She smiled and bowed once more before wishing to speedily make her way to the cars.

Nathan waited for her outside, and laughed when he saw her. “What took you so long?”

“I ran into your wife,” she bluntly stated with a glare.

“Oh, well...what did you think of her?” Nathan asked her as he had the door of the limo opened for her.

Isabella placed her hand in his and entered the limo. “She’s very pretty. It was odd though, it was almost as if she just appeared out of nowhere.”

“Yes, she does that,” Nathan laughed as he climbed in after her. “She is omnipresent, that’s for sure. Even as a little girl, she had this ability...to emerge when you least expect it.”

“It startled me,” she giggled to cover up how nervous her encounter had made her. Even though she felt she had done nothing wrong, it all felt rather odd to her. “How long have you two known each other?” she asked

“Since before I can remember,” he said as he made himself comfortable in the limo. There was nobody else besides the two of them, and behind tinted windows at that. “My earliest memories have her in them. Our fathers were friends, you see.” Nathan went to grab some soda from the icebox on the opposite side of the seats.

Isabella shuffled towards Nathan, “That’s interesting. We’re the two of you betrothed or was it just something that happened?”

“I tried for years to get her to agree to one. It was until we were both 25 that it finally happened. We were on and off for a long time before that though,” Nathan responded truthfully.

“And now?” she asked inching closer to him. “I mean it sounds like the on and off is a recurring thing for you two...from what you’ve told me at least.”

“It’s been off since October,” Nathan shrugged. “Just isn’t what it used to be.”

“Thats a shame,” Isabella said running her hand over his chest. “A real tragedy when two people drift apart.”

“Yes, a very unfortunate situation,” Nathan said with a sigh. When she ran her hand over his chest, the limo began to move. He took her hand and kissed it, holding it against his lips. “She used my love for her to manipulate me for her family’s benefit. That hurt.”

“Thats horrid,” Isabella said. She smiled when he kissed her hand. “Thats the problem with being born in a position such as yours, I’m afraid,” she told him before kissing his cheek. “Everyone always wearing a mask in front of you, taking all they can before you can catch on…”

“Does your brother deal with that...did you yourself?” Nathan asked her curiously, blushing when she kissed his cheek.

“Ha,” she laughed, “I love my brother, I really do, but he is the type of man that will manipulate people any way he can to get what he wants or achieve his goals. He’s a...uh rather hard one to read at times.” Isabella continued running her hand over his chest, though at a slower pace. “I guess my experience with this comes from seeing him act that way.”

“...Sounds like a man that doesn’t like not getting his way then,” Nathan caressed her hair. It was very hard to keep his hands off of her. “Was he spoiled as a boy or something?”

“Mother always tried very hard to never spoil any of us...wanted us to have as real of a childhood as we could. But when grandfather was around, Jason was always his favorite. Granddad never did try to hide it much. And when he died, well Jason just always wanted to be just like him,” he told Nathan. “In truth, I see it as him just wanted to live up to grandfather’s accomplishments...being loved by the people, you know...things like that.”

“I see,” he thought on that for a moment. “I just try to be a good person...sometimes knowing what to do is difficult, and I make mistakes. But I really don’t like the idea of manipulating people. I want to be myself and encourage others to be the best that they can be.”

Isabella smiled to him, “That’s very admirable.” While not understanding the politics and inner workings of the Ghantish government, she knew how cut throat those at home could be. “If only more people acted in that type of way...the world would be a much better place.”

“And what kind of person are you, then?” Nathan asked, only half serious as he rubbed her arm.

“I’m the kind of person that prefers to be open and honest,” she told him. “I..I don’t find fear to be an effective motivator, whether in politics or dealing with others in general.”

“So, like me then,” he said with a smile, limo jiggling a bit as they went along. “How do you motivate people?”

“Positive reinforcement...affection,” Isabella said. “Though I don’t come across many situations where I need to motivate people that often.”

“I must admit, I am a big fan of positive reinforcement and affection,” Nathan laughed, suddenly thinking, as he looked up and lifted a hatch for the sunroof. “Care for a view?”

“I’d love one,” Isabella smiled. She looked up through the sunroof and saw the tall buildings as they approached the southside. Moving to stand, the Princess poked her head out of the sunroof for an even better view.

“As you can see,” Nathan pointed out. “Alot of these buildings are relatively knew, only having come up in the last fifty years or so. In the old days, the southside was pretty much a big fish market and bazaar, and overtime all of that sort of shifted away in favor of more conventional buildings. While there aren’t really any gigantic, towering buildings like you will find in places like Onmutu, the ones here are more stylistic, aesthetically speaking. Ghish by and large is a city with an antiquated charm, you see...one doesn’t really associate it with a dominant skyscraping cityscape.”

She backed down from the sun roof, “It’s very beautiful, much different than anything I’ve seen back home. Always nice to see buildings that aren’t just copies of the previous.” Isabella looked out the window some more, “so are there any must sees of this part of town?”

“There are some nice places to eat, and an arcade that I know of a few blocks away from the Boo Tower,” Nathan pointed out. “There is a good place near there that has burritos and quesadillas.”

“I really expected a ‘mid-day sausage joke,” Isabella laughed. “I think it’s wonderful how well you know the city. Not even sure I’d be able to explain Castellum in such similar detail.”

“Well, remember how I told you to expect the unexpected,” Nathan laughed. “But really, this is my city, you know? I like to be in it. I have walked the streets, gone to where the regular people go, I know people in the shops, parlors and restaurants on a first name basis, and yada yada. That, and Castellum is a bigger city than Ghish, so I wouldn’t even begin to try to understand how difficult a task that might be.”

Moving back near Nathan, she rested her hand on his leg, “One of the people are we?” Isabella giggled, “Yes, it would be a gargantuan task to know all the ins and outs of Castellum. I’m not even sure if I’ve been to most areas in the city. I know us Latins love to brag about old Castellum is, but how old is Ghish?”

“At least 3,000 years old,” Nathan began to explain as he rested a hand on top of hers. “It used to be just a fishing village at the mouth of the River Ghish...the only other thing here was the Temple of Ghish, which was built to honor the Sea God. It is still around too...over on the eastside near the Palace. It is one of the Seven Wonders of Ghant even.”

“Wow, older than Castellum. We better keep that between you and me or they’ll come up with another story to ‘prove’ its even older,” Isabella laughed. “Is it still a temple? I wouldn’t mind seeing that at some point. Sounds like something you’d check off a bucket list.”

“Yes. In addition to a museum, it is a place where followers of the Sea God can go to pay homage,” Nathan mused. “It is within walking distance from the Palace actually...out the east door anyway. Also, you might be interested to know that there is a city up north that is rumored to have been founded 10,000 years ago. Gauekoizarra...Sophia’s grandmother is a Princess of said Kingdom.”

“Ten thousand...wow,” Isabella gasped. “That is almost unbelievable. Does anything remain standing from that long ago?”

“Well, Gauekoizarra is known for its tall tales as well,” Nathan chuckled as he snuck a kiss in on the side of her neck. “I think the oldest ones are around 5,000...just stone and rock for those though. The sense of mystery and awe about it though...that’s thoroughly amusing.”

“Seems their propaganda department should exchange notes with Castellum’s then,” she laughed. When Nathan kissed her, she could feel goosebumps and smiled. Isabella turned to face him and placed a quick kiss on his lips.

“I’d like to exchange something with you,” he sniggered as he kissed her back, with tongue and a hand on the back of her neck near the base of her hair.

Accepting his kiss, she pushed herself closer to him. Mixing in tongue of her own, she kissed him right back, even exceeding his passion. Her arm became stiff and pushed back against his leg.

“You don’t want to get out of the limo, do you?” he laughed as he went for the buttons on her blouse.

“Never,” she mumbled between kisses, helping him with the buttons.

“I had a phase of my life in which I wanted to see what was out there, and have fun, you know?” Nathan asked as he felt the air in his hair. “What’s the point of being Emperor if you can’t even do that? And funny to think that even as I wave to those children over there, I am not wearing anything beneath the waist…”

“Oh, I think I have an idea of what you mean,” she told him. Isabella looked out the window of the car at the people Nathan was waving at. “What's even funnier is that they have no idea a Princess is holding you in her hand,” Isabella finished laughing holding the Imperial Jewels as they were in her hand for a brief moment.

“Oh, look at you...I am so tender...that tickles!” he started to laugh as he waved back to the people that were waving at him. “Behold, tis I, the Emperor of Ghant!”

“I know you are,” she giggled, “I can feel it.” Isabella looked out the window again and it made her smile to see the faces of people so joyful to see their ruler. Holding him again she said, “But I hold the Emperor of Ghant.”

He glanced down at her as she held him. “...Would you like for me to cough?” he asked with a laugh.

“Would you, please,” she laughed right back at him. Letting go of him she buttoned up the remaining buttons of her blouse, “Or maybe I should keep my hands off you until later.”

Nathan coughed anyway. “Could it be truly that great of a challenge? Ghant is well known for Vitamin D, after all.”

“I believe that. I know I’ve had my fair share of Vitamin D since I arrived. Very, very fine vitamin D,” she laughed.

“Pure high-grade,” he said, smiling and waving at people that looked on. “Man, I really don’t want to put my pants back on. Emperor problems no doubt.”

Isabella sat there for a moment, then said, “I can help, Your Majesty. But first…this” Then Isabella kissed him all around his nether regions and tugged at him with her hand.

“Thank you for accepting,” he said with a smirk. “I think that is enough sunroof for one day,” he told her as he went back under, and shut it after him. And hopefully the same goes for wearing pants…

by **Lacus Magni** » Mon Jan 11, 2016 12:38 pm

Latin Embassy
Ghish, Ghant
Summer 2015

Over a month had passed since Princess Isabella had set foot in Ghant. And over a month since she met Nathan and had one of the greatest nights of her life. She was at the Latin embassy, located in Ghsih, doing whatever menial task had been brought to her this day. For the last two hours she had been signing what seemed to be an endless stream of papers. It was simply one of the menial tasks that came with her appointment as Ambassador to Ghant.

As she sat at her large desk, she felt a rumbling in her stomach. Isabella thought nothing of it, and continued on until the next grumble came from her stomach. She pushed her chair back from the desk and quickly stood and rushed towards the adjoining bathroom. Throwing the door open she fell to her knees and became sick. Third time today, she thought, nearly the tenth time this week.

“Helene,” she shouted to her assistant, “Helene.”

Helene ran into the large office and entered the restroom, “Your Grace, is everything alright?” she asked in a worried voice.

Isabella leaned up against the wall, “I need you to do something for me.”

Helene knelt down and helped Isabella stand, “Of course, Princess. What do you need?”

Now standing, Isabella walked slowly into the office and leaned against now closed restroom door facing Helene. “I can trust you, can’t I, Helene?” she asked.

“Yes, Your Grace. What is it,” Helene asked once more.

Isabella looked shiftily around the room, “Find me a pregnancy test.”

“A…what? Your Grace… are you…” Helene said quietly.

“I’m late…I’m fucking late,” Isabella wordily told her. Tears started running down her face. “I’m late, I’ve thrown up countless times,” she finished sliding down the door, eventually reaching the floor.

Helene knelt down and put her arms around Isabella, “It’s alright, Princess. Don’t worry, I’ll find a test for you.” She stood and rushed out of the office.

He’s going to make me come home…I just know he will. And what will Nathan think? Maybe I’m just overreacting, I haven’t even taken a test yet, she thought with her face in her hands.

She walked back to her large desk and sat at her chair. Spinning around, she looked at the back wall and out a window. Through the window she could see the Imperial Palace off in the distance. She must have starred out that window for almost a half hour until Helene arrived with a plethora of tests.

“Your Grace,” Helene said when she entered the office, closing the door behind her. “Here you go,” handing her the large bag. “I bought a bunch of different ones, just to be sure.”

Isabella smiled at her, “Thank you so much. I don’t know how I can ever repay you.” She took the bag and went into the adjoining restroom.

"You're very welcome, Princess," Helene replied.

She grabbed a test at random, here goes nothing, she thought. Using the test as one would, Isabella then waited for the results to appear. She was unable to stay still, shaking from her nerves, waiting for what seemed like a lifetime for her.

“Shit,” could be heard from the restroom where Isabella was. She reached back into the bag for another test

She reached back into the bag for another test. After following the directions and waiting minutes for the results, she shook the test vigorously. Staring at it, the test read positive again. He’s going to drag me home, I know Jason will. I need to see Nathan, she thought.

Isabella cleared the tears from her eyes and face, “Helene, get the car ready. I’m going to the Palace.”

IIwiki Admin · by **Ghant** » Mon Jan 11, 2016 12:44 pm

Inperiala Palace
Ghish, Ghant
Summer 2015

Isabella was seated in the back seat of a black unmarked SUV driving through the streets of Ghish on her way to the Imperial Palace. She was nervous, shaking the entire distance to her destination. I don’t know what to do, she constantly repeated to herself.

The driver looked in the rearview mirror, noticing the Princess’s red tear ridden face. “Just another moment, Princess. We are nearly at the gate,” she said to her as they neared the Palace.

She looked out the window of the vehicle, taking one last look at her surroundings before taking a deep breath just before they were stopped at the entrance.

By this time, the vehicle and the Ambassador were well enough known to where they could be waved through upon stopping, which was the case this particular time. Near the side door carport, a pretty redheaded girl and some others wearing dresses were standing around smoking...something. They didn’t pay attention to the black SUV as it pulled up.

The driver entered the Palace grounds and drove to the carport. He exited the vehicle and opened the door for Isabella. Exiting the SUV, she quickly looked at her surrounding, noticing a group of girls. Pretending not to pay attention to them, as she’d rather see Nathan as quickly as possible, Isabella walked with speed to the door.

“In a hurry?” the redhead asked her, without looking as she smoked a blunt.

Isabella slowed when she heard the voice. “Oh...umm no,” she said with little confidence. “Just some state business is all,” she finished as she grabbed the door handle.

“Door’s locked,” the redhead said with a grin. “You want me to open it?”

I don’t have time for this, Isabella thought. “Could you please, that would be lovely?” she asked the girl, flashing as much of a smile she could muster.

“...sure you don’t want to hit this blunt first?” the girl asked with a laugh. “We haven’t met before but hey, that’s the best way to start, right?”

“I really shouldn’t, but thank you,” the Princess replied. Looking at the redhead, she briefly introduced herself, “We haven’t, I’m Isabella.”

The girl passed the blunt off and began fumbling around her bag. “Isabella eh? That’s it? Some kind of diplomat or some shit I assume...hmm…” she proceeded to pull out a keychain loaded with keys, new and old. As she thumbed through them for the right one, she approached the door and raised an eyebrow. “You looking for my brother or something?”

“Yes, a diplomat….or some shit,” Isabella told her in a snarky tone. “I’m looking for Natha...the Emperor,” she finished. She mumbled to herself in Greek, “what is this twenty questions?”

“Looking for Nate Dizzle, yeah...I just got done talking to him. I know where he is and I can take you to him,” the girl shrugged as she found the key she was looking for. “Found it, time to get this bitch opened up.” After she opened the door and stepped inside, she gestured for Isabella to follow. “Arietta, Princess Imperial of Ghant at your service.”

“Thank you so much,” Isabella said laughing, momentarily ignoring her nerves. She followed her into the building, only realizing who her little helper was when she introduced herself to Isabella. “Ah, Nathan is your brother...I feel a bit silly now.”

“Well you should,” Arietta pointed out with a smirk. “Not sure how anyone wouldn’t recognize me! I thought either you were just being a bitch or maybe, you simply were ignorant. But in my wisdom, I shall forgive you. Although...I still don’t know who you are other than Isabella, the diplomat or some shit like that.”

Isabella’s nerves were returning, “I’m very sorry, I just have a great deal running through my mind. But I am Princess Isabella of Lusitania...a Latin Princess and Ambassador to Ghant,” she finished.

“Oh ok, I think I know now,” Arietta nodded, turning a corner in the hallways. “Your brothers are so sexy, like OMG.”

Laughing even more, Isabella said, “Thank you, I guess. I’ll be sure to pass that along.” She looked at Princess Arietta, “Maybe I’ll ask them to come visit someday.”

“...I certainly wouldn’t be opposed to that,” Arietta said with a shrug. “You know...Nathan doesn’t usually entertain diplomats. You must be pretty special eh? Oh and don’t worry, it isn’t far, he is just in one of his hiding spots.”

Isabella did not intend to lead on to her dealings with Nathan. “He doesn’t, interesting,” she said. Her nerves grew as she followed Arietta to Nathan. She was shaking slightly, giving off the appearance she was cold. Finally, almost there, she thought.

Arietta whistled a song as she pushed open a door to the Imperial Library. A multi-floor room filled with books old and new, and well illuminated in the main areas as well. There were rows of tables stacked with books, and the shelves towered towards the ceiling past the second and highest level. “All these damn books, I tell you!” Arietta laughed, her voice echoing. As she walked towards the back of the library, she glanced at one tome on a table. “The Adventures of Nicholas the Knight King. Bah so boring, ugh!”

Isabella continued to follow Arietta through the expansive library. She paid little attention to the stacks of books or much else of her surroundings. Becoming antsy she spoke to Arietta, “Are we close?”

“Very close,” Arietta told her as she pushed open the double doors at the back, old wooden oak that made a creak as they opened. On the other side was a dark room, with cobwebs and old shelves with even older books. Towards the back of the dark room was a shelf, and Arietta began to fiddle around it. “Where the fuck is it...it’s around here somewhere…” she pushed various tomes until one stuck, and made the shelf begin to move to the side. “There it is!” Then Arietta began to skip down a spiral staircase with her phone’s flashlight out. “Just down here.”

“What a maze,” Isabella laughed, following her down the staircase. I hope we’re there soon, and this girl isn’t taking me on some random voyage through catacombs, she thought.

“Just watch your step around here,” Arietta chuckled as she scampered down the steps. “This shit has been here for over...eh...I wanna say 2,000 years.” Sounds of rats and running water could be heard amidst the solid stone slabs that made up the walls. Down at the bottom of the staircase, there was solid stone as well in a dimly lit columned chamber, illuminated by torch sconces. Arietta approached a room at the far end of the chamber behind a column, and pushed the old wooden door open. “Sup bro?”

Nathan was sitting at a table reading an ancient tome, and when Arietta called out, he jumped out of his seat and slammed the tome shut in haste. “Holy shit you scared the shit out of me, you sneaky bastard!”

“Yeah, well I brought you...something…” she giggled.

“It better be something to eat and drink,” he snapped back.

“Please,” Arietta folded her arms. “I ain’t your servant.”

Isabella moved into the open from behind the column. “Hello,” she said softly. “You’re not an easy man to get ahold of, Your Majesty.”

“But the ones worthy of getting ahold of me always do,” Nathan smiled. “Arietta, if you would…”

“Yeah sure. I don’t like it down here anyway,” she said with a lazy bow before turning to walk away.

Once she was gone, Nathan went to the door and shut it, waiting for the footsteps to fade away. “I am assuming the nature of your coming is most urgent...it usually is,” he smirked.

Unsure of how to broach the topic, she grabbed her arm with her other and stroked it. “Urgent is a fitting term,” she said nervously with a flat and almost sad look upon her.

Nathan nodded as he listened to her talk, before sweeping across the room to embrace her. He cupped her face in his hands and kissed her. “Please, be at ease and speak your troubles to me.”

Isabella was silent, struggling to spit out what she needed to tell him. “Nathan…” she said before looking away from him. “Well, I haven’t been feeling well the last few weeks...and I’m late. Like really late. And well...” she paused.

“...You are with child,” Nathan said softly as he held her close. “Are you afraid of this? You shouldn’t be. I...love you, Isabella of the Latin Empire. There is nothing to be worried about...nothing to fear.”

“I’m terrified,” Isabella said as tears ran down her face. “I don’t know what to do.”

Nathan kissed the tears from her face. “Do you want to have the child?” Nathan asked her.

“I...I could never end it. Can’t,” she told him. “But I’m unmarried...and pregnant…”

“So marry me then,” Nathan told her with a smile. “Be the mother of a Prince or Princess of Ghant.”

“You already have a ‘wife’ though,” Isabella stated.

“Indeed I do,” the Emperor nodded. “Even still, you can be my Ohaide, and you can still be a mother of an Emperor of Ghant, circumstances permitting.”

“You can’t divorce Sophia?” she pleaded. “It’s you and I who are in love. Not you and her.”

“And doing so would rip the Empire apart, since her father and his family are the most powerful house in Ghant. And she is the mother of the Crown Prince. For the sake of politics, it ought to remain. But that doesn’t mean that we cannot be together and raise a family of legitimate imperials,” Nathan explained, still softly.

Isabella didn’t like his response, but knew that it was indeed for the best and that Nathan was right. She kissed him, “I want to be with you, Nathan. No matter the label I hold.”

With that, Nathan dropped to one knee, and took her hand in his. “Princess Isabella of the Latin Empire, will you be my Ohaide?” as he asked, he fumbled around in his pocket, and pulled from it a silver ring.

She couldn’t contain her smile, “Yes! Yes!” Isabella pulled him up to his feet and held him close. Thinking briefly, “Did you have the ring ready all this time?”

“A wise man once told me that it is better to have something when you don’t need it, then to not have it when you do,” he said with a giddy grin, before kissing her.

“Very wise indeed,” kissing him right back. “What do I tell my family?” Isabella addressed her next concern aloud.

“...You could always not tell them anything,” Nathan said with a shrug, stroking her hair.

“I can’t just not tell them,” she stated. “They’re my family. But I can’t imagine they’d be too displeased.”

“...You said yourself that your brother can be conniving and manipulative,” Nathan was quick to point out. “I don’t want to lose you, and I fear that he would recall you.”

“That’s why I hesitate. But he can’t force me home, even if I’m removed from my office...at least I hope he wouldn’t try too,” she told him.

“So how about this, then,” Nathan stroked his chin. “Why don’t we invite your brother here, and we can lay it on him then?”

“And if he doesn’t respond positively?” she asked.

“Well, you are an older sister, not a younger one, and your father is no longer with us. So it stands to reason that if this is what you want and what makes you happy, he will accept it if he loves you,” Nathan reassured her. “Since you can assure him that it will happen anyway...such is the reality of the situation, and he can either accept it and embrace your choice, or be bitter about it. He seems like a practical man, and may see the wisdom in at least tolerating it.”

“I...I uh. It might work. I already know he won’t be pleased, Nathan,” she said. Holding his hand, “Invite him. It will make no difference. I won’t be leaving. My place is with you, here.”

“Perhaps you can invite him,” Nathan smiled. “He might be more responsive to an invitation from his sister, don’t you think?”

“I can do that,” she smiled. “I’ll have to make him bring mother, he might be more...tame if she is around.”

“A wise course. His family too, or just them?” Nathan probed her as he began to fiddle around her body with his deft hands.

“I would love to see my little niece and nephew,” she giggled while Nathan touched her. “His wife Sophie too, I suppose. She can be a bore though,” Isabella finished kissing Nathan again.

“A bore eh? I didn’t know know your brother was into wild pigs,” he giggled back as he began to tickle her ribs.

“Shut up,” she said playfully hitting him. “She’s very sweet, we just don’t have much in common.”

“Well, you are sweet too…” he said as he kissed her again, and began to work at her top. “Like honey.”

“Here?” Isabella flatly questioned. “I feel like I could catch something in this room,” she laughed.

“You could catch a dick,” Nathan laughed as he kissed her neck.

“You’re a funny one,” she giggled. “But seriously, this room is filthy.”

“As filthy as me?” Nathan asked with a laugh as he grabbed her and threw her over his shoulder before walking out of the room and down the hall.

“Nothing is a filthy as you,” she smile to him just before Nathan grabbed her. When he lifted her up she squealed before saying, “careful. Precious cargo aboard.”

“Is that so?” he teased as her as reached out with his hand and tickled her feet. He went into another dimly lit corridor and found a spiral staircase that went up, which he then proceeded to climb.

Damn he’s strong, Isabella thought. “Yes,” she laughed, “that is so. And where are you taking your bride-to-be?”

“To where my bride-to-be belongs, as it happens,” he explained, climbing the steps with her over his shoulder. At the top, he pushed open the door, which revealed a room with clothes in it. On the other side of the next door, were his personal chambers and the grand king sized bed against the wall. Nathan threw her on the bed and then jumped in after her.

“Does His Majesty intend to fuck his bride-to-be?” she asked with a growing grin.

“Nope,” he said with an innocent smile, laying in bed next to her.

“Oh, is that so?” she asked him running her hand over his chest as she rolled to face him.

“I was more inclined to make love,” he said facetiously. “To a woman that I love.” With that, he began to kiss her and work a hand into her undergarments.

“That sounds much better,” she said before kissing him passionately and working at his clothes.

“Once these clothes are off, I will be hard pressed to put them back on,” he laughed as he helped her out. “I am a fan of marathon sessions, as you already know.”

“When you look as good as we do,” she joked, “who needs clothes.” Wiggling out of the rest of her clothes, she slid Nathan’s pants down so she could get started.

“My thoughts exactly...I can really do without pants,” he laughed as laid back and took off the rest of his clothing.

“Yes we can,” she said in a soft, sexy voice, finally getting Nathan’s pants down giving her free access. Grabbing him, she licked him and said, “one of my favorites.”

“Speaking of which,” he grinned as he reached around and grabbed her by the ankle, spinning her around. “As I said earlier, you are sweet,” he said before licking her.

“I love you too...I am glad you don’t want to leave. Hopefully your family takes your happiness into consideration,” he explained as he licked the sweat from her skin...wherever he could conveniently and feasibly could.

“Jason is the only one to worry about,” Isabella explained. “I know the rest will...hopefully mother or even his wife could talk some sense to him, if need be.”

“I do care about his approval, because I want you to be worry free,” he told her as he held her against him, enjoying the feeling of her sweaty skin. “And I don’t want our child to think that Uncle Jason doesn’t love them.”

“I hope so too, for our child at the very least,” she told him before kissing him on the cheek. “But I don’t think Jason would do anything too rash...at least I hope not. I mean, we’ve always been close.”

“I mean, what does he want for you, anyway?” Nathan asked her. “One would think that this is a pretty good situation to be in.”

“I have no idea. Whatever fits his plan for the family or some other bullshit. There are plenty of absurd reasons he could come up with,” Isabella sighed. “But, I agree. A marvelous situation to be in, I think.”

“He wants to see you married for political reasons to enhance the credibility of his rule, no doubt,” Nathan guessed. “That, and he is afraid that this will cause scandal back home and be a black mark on the Imperial family.”

“Of course, but I imagine he’d see me as a lesser wife to you. But he doesn’t understand what you and I have yet,” she responded, rubbing his chest.

“Maybe he has...once,” Nathan began to point out. “His first wife. I have learned about that...absolutely terrible. I feel sorry for him.”

“It broke my heart seeing him like that,” Isabella said remembering her brothers pain. “There’s been something off about him ever since.”

“That must be hard on his present wife then,” Nathan nodded his head slightly. “You could probably appeal to him on love then...since he knows what that feels like, and what it feels like to lose that.”

“She’s seemed very understanding, at least from what I’ve gathered talking to her,” Isabella said, thinking deeply. “I could, but I really don’t want to drag all of that up if I don’t absolutely have to.”

“A wise course...I couldn’t imagine that making him feel any better.” Nathan flipped them around. so she was on the bottom, and he laid on top of her. “So...tell me about your Good Luck Chuck.”

“My what?” she asked him puzzled. “What on earth is that?”

“The last guy you had sex with before finding the one,” Nathan laughed. “The last sucker that loses out before you find the guy that made it all worth it.”

“How are you so certain it’s not you?” Isabella playfully joked.

“Because I plan on holding you tight and never letting you go...because like I said, I know a good thing when I see it,” he told her as he had her pinned down beneath him. Then with a free hand he began to tickle the side of her ribs.

“I bagged a smart one,” she said then began to giggle when he tickled her. “Well, my Good Luck Chuck...hmm,” Isabella thought. “Dinescu...Constantine Dinescu. He plays for Castellum Imperialis, the football club my family owns.”

“And why didn’t that work out?” Nathan asked, curiously, as he played with her hair and kissed her forehead.

“We never intended it to be more than sex,” she responded. “We both had an understanding of what it was and what we realistically wouldn’t be able to do.”

“So once you got tired of having sex with him...that was it? Or did he get tired?” Nathan asked with a raised eyebrow.

“I wouldn’t say tired, but we both knew that we weren’t going to end up marrying or even dating each other…so one day he told me he met someone and that was it. Which was fine, I guess. I can’t get upset over it,” Isabella told him honestly.

“And how long ago was this?” Nathan asked her softly as he brushed her cheeks.

Isabella quickly laughed, “Maybe a week before I first came here. Funny how things work like that.”

“Ah I get it now...I was the rebound guy,” he laughed. “What a chump.”

“You’re so right. I’m just going to run on to the next thing as quickly as I can,” she laughed, planting a kiss on his lips. “I played His Majesty like a fool.”

“And here is was hoping you might be interested in sticking around for awhile,” he sniggered. “Because it seems like you just keep...coming.”

“A mystery you’ve kept me coming this long,” Isabella joked. Placing her hands on her womb she said, “Must be this little fellow.”

“Speaking of which...what do you want to name it?” Nathan wondered, as he kissed her abdomen.

“Haven’t even given it a thought yet,” she smiled to him. “Maybe a mix some something Ghantish and something Latin?”

“Perhaps...hmm…” Nathan thought for a moment. “For a girl...maybe Olympia. But for a boy...hmm...that’s tough…”

“I’d say Nathan...but you already have a boy with that name. Hmm,” she pondered. “What about John? That was your father’s name wasn’t it?”

“It was, but my other son is named John,” he laughed. “I used to think naming girls was harder...now I am not so sure.”

“Shit, silly me,” Isabella laughed. “You’re right it is tough. What about Leo, after my grandfather?”

“Oh, Leo...I like that!” Nathan exclaimed. “Your grandfather was a great man, from what I have read about and heard. Twas a famous Prince Leo of Ghant as well...a great leader during a time of war.”

“He was something extraordinary,” Isabella said of her grandfather. “The man who saved Latium. Savoir of the Latins, they called him,” she stated. Now looking to her belly and smiling, “Looks like we know who we can count on in a time of trouble.”

“Are you going to want to find out what it is as soon as you can, or wait until...it’s due?” he probed her as he began to slide a hand down her body.

“God, I have no idea,” Isabella stated. “You know how I love a surprise, but I don’t think I’d be able to make it the whole time without knowing.”

“Speaking of surprises…” he began kissing her deeply and passionately, and then ran his tongue all down her neck and all over her collarbone. He slowly but surely made his way down to her bosom and began sucking and licking them while his strong hands wandered down between her legs and massaged her inner thighs, teasing her womanhood. He started to give her soft kisses all over her stomach, whilst pacifying her by inserting two fingers into her void and using the other hand to rub the bit just above it.

“Do you never tire?” she asked him as her voice began to trail off from the sensation.

“Not of you I don’t,” he said, teasingly as he indulged his passion...

by **Lacus Magni** » Mon Jan 11, 2016 12:47 pm

Over the Sea of Ghant
Fall 2015

Jason Augustus was seated at the head of a table in the small conference room of his plane. He was having a brief discussion with the Magister Militum regarding the Latin First debacle that was occurring at home, when his daughter, Maria, burst into the room.

“Daddy,” she yelled, “Are we there yet? I want to see Auntie Bella.”

The Emperor picked her up and sat her on his lap, “just a second, sweetheart.”

Again facing the large screen at the end of the large table, Jason Augustus said, “I think we can finally make a move on this, Lucius. If he is in Capsa…put a team together and end him, end this whole ordeal.”

“Yes, sir. I’ll begin setting everything up,” the Magister Militum replied to him then exiting the video chat.

Jason then looked at his daughter, “what have I told you about when I’m in meetings?”

“Sorry papa, I just really miss Auntie Bella. I can’t wait to see her,” she said.

She looks so much like her mother, Jason thought. “I know, but don’t you worry. You’ll get to see her very soon.” Placing his daughter back onto her feet, “and I know she is very excited to see you too.”

The young Maria smiled at her father, watching him stand from his chair, appearing to be a giant compared to her. He took her hand, “Lets go find grandmother.”

Jason Augustus walked towards the back of the aircraft with his daughter by his side. She would smile towards and high-five anyone, particularly the guards that she walked passed. The two quickly reached the Empress-Mother.

“I just spoke with Sophie,” she said.

Jason sat his daughter down at his desk with a big pad of paper to draw on, then sat down on a couch. “How’s she feeling? Better, I hope,” he said to his mother.

“Still a little under the weather. She’s disappointed that she couldn’t come,” Adelaide told him.

“I should call her,” Jason said picking up a phone, “see how she is, see how Constantine is doing.”

“Let her rest, Jason,” Adelaid advised him.

Jason placed the phone down and grabbed a nearby glass of water. “So, mother. Any thought as to why Bella asked you to come as well?” he asked before pausing and speaking again, “Not that I don’t love our travels together. Just struck me as a bit odd that she said the Ghantish emperor wished for you to come along.”

The Empress-Mother looked at her granddaughter, and then to her son, “I don’t have the faintest idea, Jason. Did it ever occur to you that she might just wish to see her mother and niece? From the tone of her voice that is what it sounded like to me.” She walked over to Maria and picked up some her crayons that fell onto the floor, “It’s a simple state visit…don’t read into it to much.”

A voice came over the intercom; “We will be making our approach on Ghish in a few minutes.”

“I suppose you’re right,” Jason said dropping the subject, though continuing with his thoughts internally. He looked out the window as the aircraft made its descent. After the plane had landed, the Emperor picked up his daughter, “Ready to see Aunt Bella?” he asked.

Jason walked towards the exit with his mother and daughter in his arms.

IIwiki Admin · by **Ghant** » Mon Jan 11, 2016 12:50 pm

Inperiala Palace
Ghish, Ghant
Fall 2015

“...Such a shame...I won’t be able to kiss you and stroke the inside of your thighs once your family gets here,” Nathan laughed as he sat in the limousine at the private tarmac at Ghish International Airport, awaiting the arrival of the Latin Emperor and his party.

“Shocking you’ve been able to keep your hands to yourself the entire time we’ve been here waiting for them,” Isabella laughed, gently brushing her hand over his leg. “Look, there they are,” she pointed.

Latin Emperor, Jason Augustus stepped onto the stair-car and began walking down, flanked by his daughter, Princess Maria of Youth and the Empress-Mother. Jason Augustus dressed in a plain dark gray suit, standing at 6’2’’ and looked towards the limo on the tarmac. “Think thats Bella,” he laughed to his mother.

The Emperor of Ghant opened the limo door and stepped out. He was also 6’2’’, tall and lean, stronger than he looked. When he saw Jason, his mother and daughter, he bowed courteously. A herald swept around the limo, butting his teakwood staff against the solid ground. “Greetings, Your Imperial Majesty, Jason Augustus, Fifth of His Name, Most Serene and Noble Caesar Crowned by God, Pater Patriae, Princeps Senatus, Nobilissimus, Invictus, Emperor of the Latins, Basileus and Autokrator of the Hellenes, Emperor of the Romans, King of Kings, King of Castellum, Grand Prince of Constantinople, Prince of Ravenna, Lord of the Palatine, Dominus of Landder, Dominus of Solisbury, Sword of Christ, Defender of the Faith, Commander-in-Chief of the Legions. Also, welcome, Maria, Princess of Youth, as well as Marie, Empress Dowager of the Latin Empire, widow of His Imperial Majesty Olybrius, Fifth of His Name, Emperor of the Latin Empire, and etcetera. May I present His Imperial Majesty, Nathan, Fourth of His Name, Emperor of Ghant, Low King of Ghant, Lord of Ghish, King of the Ghantar and Lord Protector of the Realm.”

“Your Majesty,” Jason Augustus said to Nathan bowing his head ever so slightly, “How great to put a face to the name.” Princess Maria and Empress-Mother both curtsied to the Emperor of Ghant, though Maria did so at her grandmother's direction. “Your Majesty,” the two said in unison, though young Maria’s smile grew as she saw her Aunt near the limo.

“Your Majesty,” Nathan said with a smile. “The feeling is likewise, I can assure you.” Having said that he approached the Empress Dowager. “Your Highness, such a pleasure. The whole of Ghish is made brighter by your presence,” he told her as he took her hand and planted a kiss upon it.

“Too kind of you, Your Majesty,” the Empress Dowager said with a smile. She patted Princess Maria on the back so she would remember to speak. “Thank you for having us, Emperor,” she said timidly.

“You are very welcome, sweetling,” Nathan smiled at the little girl. “I have a surprise for you back at the palace too!”

Isabella approached from the limo and Maria ran into her arms to give her a hug. “I missed you, Auntie Bella,” she told her.

“Oh, I missed you too, little lady,” Isabella said to her niece. Continuing forward, “Mother,” she said as she exchanged a hug with her as well. “And little brother, looking as handsome as ever, I see,” she finished with a smile.

“Nice to see you sis, hope the job hasn’t been too difficult,” Jason joked to Isabella.

Isabella quickly glanced at Nathan, then back at Jason, “Not difficult at all.”

Nathan gestured towards the limo as they were talking, and looked back at Isabella as she spoke that last line. “Indeed, things have gone quite well, and your sister has pursued Imperial relations vigorously.” With an open hand and an outstretched arm, he smiled and stood at the limo door. “I hope you brought your appetites, because there is a feast for your honor awaiting you back at the palace.”

The group of Latin Imperials entered the limo and found their seats, with Jason entering after his mother and daughter. “Oh I think we starved ourselves on the flight over in anticipation, Your Majesty,” the Empress Dowager said to Nathan.

“Well, fortunately, you are free to eat your fill at the Palace. I have made sure that there is a wide array of delicacies that can sate a Latin appetite. Your daughter can attest to this I am sure,” Nathan said as he climbed in after them all, the door shutting behind him.

Isabella giggled at Nathan’s continued wordplay, though trying her best not to give her brother any suspicion. “His Majesty and the Ghantish government have gone leaps and bounds to make sure my staff and I have felt right at home,” Isabella stated to her family. “Where is Sophie?” she asked her brother.

“She caught a bug. I’m sorry to say she decided to stay at home and rest,” Jason told his sister. “She sends all her love, Bella.” Jason looked to Emperor Nathan, “And she also sends her deepest regrets that she was unable to travel, Your Majesty.”

“No need to apologize,” Nathan nodded. “I only hope that she recovers swiftly.” As the limo and the associated cars began to move, he tapped some fingers on his knee. “By the way, can I interest any of you in something to drink?”

“No, thank you,” the Empress Dowager answered for herself and Princess Maria.

“I’ll take a whiskey, if you have any,” Jason Augustus said. “Might help calm me. I always get a bit antsy after a long flight.”

“Of course,” Nathan said as he reached into the cooler and grabbed a bottle of Ghantish whiskey. “How do you want it? I usually drink it straight.”

“Straight is fine for me, thank you,” Jason answered.

“Very good.” Nathan poured them each a glass of it, and then he handed Jason one. “Hopefully that hits the spot...it can be a bit strong. They say once you have tried the Ghantish stuff, nothing else will satisfy.”

Isabella laughed again at Nathan’s words, only to have Princess Maria notice. “What’s so funny, Auntie?”

“Oh, nothing my sweet little Princess. Aunt Bella just remembered a funny story is all,” Isabella told her as a cover story.

Jason accepted the glass and looked over at Isabella, “I guess we’ll see.” He took a sip and licked his lip, “damn fine, whiskey.”

“You see, I told you,” Nathan sniggered. “So, what is new in the Latin Empire?”

Jason took another sip, choosing his next words carefully, as not to frighten his daughter. “Nothing terribly exciting, the usual bickering politicians and preparing for the upcoming election,” he told Nathan, neglecting to mention that he just ordered a commando team to capture or kill the mastermind who planned his father’s assassination.

“Bah, politicians and elections,” Nathan waved a hand. “Such boring stuff that is. Let me tell you, I just celebrated my 18th accession anniversary, and it became like this big political ordeal, instead of people just hanging out and celebrating the occasion.” Nathan turned to Isabella. “What about you, your highness? How did you find the celebrations? I hope my staff was more than accomodating.”

Isabella could feel the full attention of the limo on her. “I had a marvelous time. Thankfully, I had a glass of wine or four or five so I was able to keep up with all the politicians,” she joked. “But His Majesty’s staff has been very kind to me, making sure my every need is fulfilled.”

“I hope you didn’t have too much to drink,” Jason said to Isabella. “You represent…”

She cut him off, “Yes, I know brother. I represent you and the state.”

“I can assure you, Your Majesty, that your sister has never in any way reflected negatively upon the Latin Empire,” Nathan insisted. “If anything, she has been most exemplary in the demonstration of her devotion.”

“See, give your sister some credit, Jason,” the Empress Dowager said to her son. “I knew you would do a great job, sweetheart,” she then said to Isabella.

“That is very kind of you to say, N...Your Majesty,” Isabella said to him, quickly correcting herself.

“Why thank you, Your Highness,” Nathan smiled. “You take everything you do very seriously, and that is a very admirable quality. Truly a testament to Latin work ethic, which I am sure your brother can appreciate.”

Isabella again did her best to cover up her laugher, as Jason looked to her before responding to Nathan. “Truly a hard working people. Though I’m sure my mother is more to thank for this one’s work ethic than anyone,” he said of Isabella.

Nathan looked at the Empress Dowager. “I suppose I have you to thank than for your daughter’s meticulous attention to detail, good manners, and dedication to achievement.”

“In that case, you are very welcome,” the Empress Dowager said to Nathan.

Princess Maria reacher over her father’s lap and looked out the window, “Are we there yet?” she blurted out.

“Funny you should ask, Your Highness,” Nathan grinned. He opened the sunroof and pointed. “Climb up and take a look for yourself.” The early evening sky was beginning to show, and the stars revealed themselves.

Maria looked to her father for permission. “It’s alright, just be careful,” Jason told her.

The young Princess looked up through the sunroof. “Wow,” she said in amazement. That was just about all a five year old could say of it on their own, but Maria was obviously blown away by the view.

Before long they had arrived at the Imperial Palace side entrance, where Arietta and her friends were passing a blunt. When the limo came within view, Arietta snatched it and hid it from sight before the limo could get especially close. Servants streamed forward to open the limo door and usher the Imperial party into the palace.

“...Did a little girl just see us rip a blunt?” Margaery asked.

“Better hope not,” Arietta sniggered.

Jason brought his daughter down from the sunroof, “Time to go, Maria.”

She whispered something to her father, “daddy what were those people doing by the door?” But Jason did not say anything, only moved her forward to exit after the Empress Dowager. Last of the Latin party to exit was Jason Augustus himself. He stepped out and adjusted his tie and jacket, as he always did being rather conscious of his appearance.

The girls all curtsied, and Nathan introduced them. “My cousin, Lady Margaery of the House Hyla, my sister Arietta, Princess Imperial, and their...eh...friends.”

Arietta was a shade of crimson and had a sheepish smile. “Hello, Your Majesty. Such a pleasure to see you in the flesh...I hope your find your stay most pleasant…”

“An honor, My Lady,” Jason said to Lady Margaery. Facing the Princess Imperial, “the pleasure is all mine, Your Highness.” He quickly did a look over of Arietta, “It shall be a pleasant visit,” Jason said, “if the hospitality we have received is a simple taste of what is to come from the rest of this visit.”

Nathan only slightly narrowed his eyes at his sister. “Naturally. Let us not delay, for the feast awaits.” As he began walking again, he spoke once more. “I hope you don’t mind that the Empress is out of the country on some business.”

“Quite alright,” Jason Augustus said as he began walking, as the party followed. “Looks like this turned into an impromptu getaway from the spouses,” he joked to Nathan.

“One could certainly consider it that,” he laughed. “Just down the hall here, and then it’s time to dig in.”

Jason looked around the halls, then back to his daughter, who was being escorted by Isabella. “Excellent, I’m starved,” he said.

“In the feast hall, three little girls were waiting anxiously, and when Nathan walked through the doors, they all swarmed him and gave him hugs. “Your majesty, may I present my cousins, Grace Hyla, Bella Haro and Fiona Zuria, ages 6, 5 and 4, respectively.” The three little redheaded girls all curtsied to Jason and his company, and then looked at Maria.

“Hi,” Maria said timidly.

“Don’t be shy, tell them your name and go have fun,” Jason urged his daughter on.

“I’m Maria,” she told the three girls. “Nice to meet you all.”

“Now, as for the food…” the table was full of courses like honey baked ham, roast boar, suckling pig, turkey, and numerous vegetable sides, fruits, stews, and bread. There was plenty of wine, water and tea, as well as lemonade to boot. Nathan took a seat at the head of the table.

Jason Augustus sat down in a seat flanking Nathan, as did Isabella opposite of her brother. Isabella looked to Nathan, and then to the food on the table in front of them. “This looks absolutely appetizing,” she said.

“It sure does, I think I’ll start with some wine,” Jason said.

The little girls all headed to a small table with tea and smaller portions of the main courses laid upon it, and invited Maria to join them. Meanwhile, Nathan looked at Isabella and said, “very appetizing indeed.” A servant went to pour Jason some wine upon his request.

Jason looked towards his daughter while his glass was being filled, “Thank you,” he said to the servant before he took a drink. “Great to see her interact with girls her own age,” Jason said about his daughter.

“Yes,” Isabella said. “It astonishes me how much she resembles Stephanie,” she stated. “You know, Nat...His Majesty has a few children also,” she finished, again nearly calling Nathan by name.

“I do, three babies, not even a year old yet,” Nathan responded. “They are pretty cute...like their old man,” he said with a grin.

“Just wait until they can walk,” Jason said. “That one over there hasn’t stopped running since the day she learned,” he joked.

“The same can be said of my young cousins,” Nathan chuckled. “I swear, seems like most of the girls in my family are rambunctious, lively redheads, fully of energy and a zest for life. Thankfully, my daughter has brown hair,” he said as he watched the girls pour each other tea and help themselves to the food at their table.

“It must be how girls their age are, I suppose. I remember Bella was quite the trouble-maker when we were growing up. Mother was always reprimanding her,” Jason laughed, causing Isabella to blush.

“That certainly doesn’t surprise me,” Nathan laughed. “I was the same way, always finding myself in trouble. By the way, the girls have a playroom set up across the hall with all the things little girls like to do, from tea party sets to dollhouses and all that good stuff. Maria is more than welcome to join them in there after dinner, provided you allow it,” he said to Jason.

“Of course,” Jason replied. “I know she’d love that,” he said emptying his glass.

“Fantastic,” Nathan smiled. “My cousins are good girls, well mannered and polite. I think they will get along quite nicely in there.” While munching on some tapioca pudding, he leaned back into his seat. “I also highly value Ghanto-Latin relations, and hope to see them strengthened overtime. I savor the opportunity to discuss opportunities to achieve that,” he said as he began stroking Isabella’s leg with his foot under the table.

Jason placed a large sized portion of turkey on his plate, pouring gravy over it before beginning to eat. Across the table, Isabella felt the brush of Nathan’s foot against her and began to smile and blush. She uncrossed her legs and pushed Nathan’s foot aside, while glaring at him from behind the glass covering her smile.

Nathan moved his foot away. “A great place to start would be to think about trade opportunities. I am sure there are a quite a few things that the Latin Empire can provide…” he said as a hand under the table reached out for Isabella’s thigh.

“I believe that our two nations could benefit a great deal from trade,” Jason said before he was cut off by Isabella squealing.

“Oh my,” Isabella said slowly placing her hand on Nathan’s. “Excuse me, I think the wine went down the wrong way. Terribly sorry, everybody.”

Jason looked at his sister curiously, “as I was saying, I believe this trip could be the start of a great relationship between our proud peoples. And trade would be a great start to that.”

“Happens to me all the time,” Nathan shrugged, his hand turning over to stroke Isabella’s under the table. “But yes, most definitely trade. I am sure our respective government can get into contact and find something that works out great for both of our Empires.”

“Wonderful,” Jason nodded. “But enough of business, there’s plenty of time for that later,” he concluded. “I’m curious to learn more of the Ghantish people, if you will. I only know what bits and pieces Bella has passed along.”

“Hmm...yes, a very interesting thing to want to know,” Nathan stroked his chin as he stroked Isabella’s fingers. “Basically, there are thirteen provinces, and they all coincide with historical divisions. Some still have Kings and such, so on and so forth down the line with their Lords and whatnot. A proud lot, but very individualistic, superstitious and truculent lot. Ghantar are the kind of people that when you put a gun to their heads, they will spit and dare you to pull the trigger.”

“Interesting. The whole concept of Lords having power in their holdings absolutely fascinates me,” Jason told him. Twirling his glass along its base on the table, Jason continued, “I believe the last Lord in Latium to hold a similar form of control was in the 1940s.”

“Yes, Ghant is still highly decentralized, and as Emperor I am ok with that,” Nathan pointed out. “I respect and honor traditional ways of governance in the realm without feeling the need to assert Imperial authority. As long as the nobility acts in good faith and upholds very reasonable Imperial laws, they are fine by me.”

Isabella moved her hand along Nathan’s and ran it slowly down her leg while he and her brother continued speaking. “I’d imagine there is very delicate balance though. If one cog gets knocked out of place...I’m afraid I don’t have the nerves for that sort of arrangement,” Jason joked to Nathan.

“Well, we have been doing it for a very long time,” Nathan said as his hand crept towards the area between Isabella’s legs. “It is an imperfect system, but one must have faith in the well-oiled machine of time honored tradition to work its magic.”

Isabella took a large gulp of water as Nathan neared her lower regions. Jason, however, was focused on his conversation. “Ah, tradition…tradition,” Jason smiled. “Our two peoples have that in common then. How fond and respectful the Latin people are of their traditions.”

“I am curious to learn more about that,” Nathan said as his hand receded. “As Latin Emperor, what can you say about that?”

“Well without tradition, I may very well not be here,” Jason began. “Though the Senate is perhaps the tradition that the people hold most dear, even if its members show little in the way of compassion or well being for them.” Quickly taking a drink from his glass he continued, “The allure of it wore off rather quickly for me though. Politicians…” he finished with a sigh taking yet another drink.

“Yes, I have never had much use for politicians or their politics,” Nathan nodded. “I feel as though my duty as Emperor is to do what I think is right in my best judgment. I am supposed to be the last line of defense in terms of preserving the country. It isn’t something I take lightly, and really, I try not to interfere in things much. Only when I really feel compelled to act in the national interest do I. Perhaps you can related to that?” he asked as he caressed the inside of Isabella’s thigh.

“I’d like to think every action I undertake, and every time I interfere in the Senate, is for with the best interest of the people at heart. So I can say I relate to that,” Jason stated.

Isabella let out a large sigh when Nathan placed his hand on her again, “A...oh, brother, but I do think you get some enjoyment out of toying with the Senators, whenever you can.”

“Well, I can’t deny that, Bella,” Jason said with a smirk.

“Toying with things can be quite fun, shameful as it is for me to admit,” Nathan said in agreement as his hand went back to her crotch for some gentle strokes. “A guilty pleasure of mine...watching them squirm from time to time…”

“Here here, sometimes a monarch needs to create his own fun,” Jason said.

At that moment Isabella let out a quiet moan, that she attempted to cover with a yawn. “Excuse me,” she said.

“...I would say I am quite good at that,” Nathan grinned as he rubbed Isabella’s nether region. “I have always been good at keeping myself entertained. I find that’s a valuable quality for an Emperor to possess.”

Isabella pushed Nathan’s hand away, believing that she would squeal causing her brother to become suspicious or worse, directly notice what was happening under the table.

“I agree,” Jason plainly. “So what else is planned for after this glorious feast?” he asked.

“Well, besides the girls having some playtime until bedtime, fate willing,” Nathan laughed as he retracted his hand, “I was merely hoping that we could all spend some time together and speak candidly for the sake of forging stronger ties at least between our respective courts.”

Jason finished the last of the turkey on his plate. “That would be a good start,” Jason said. He filled his drink and held it up, “Here’s to the start of a great friendship between our peoples.”

Nathan smiled and raised his drink glass up as well. “To a great friendship between the Ghantish and Latin Empires!”

Isabella smiled to Nathan during the toast, while Jason finished what was in his glass. Placing the glass on the table, he said, “I think I’ve had about all I can eat for now. What a feast.”

“Yes, I would agree...the food never seems to disappoint, especially the tapioca pudding.” Nathan’s cousins finished, and they began to scamper off to their room, beckoning for Maria to join them. Nathan was thoroughly amused by that, and laughed. “Seems like they are having fun.”

Maria looked to her father and Jason motioned her along with his hand, “Have fun,” he told her. “Certainly does,” he said to Nathan. “Thank you for providing some entertainment for her. Not all men would have considered doing that.”

“I would like to think that thoughtfulness is one of my strong suits...I think about things like this, being a father and husband myself,” Nathan said with a gesture of his hand. After the girls left, the room consisted entirely of Nathan, Jason, Isabella, Marie, and Nathan’s various guards positioned around the room, zinpalak knights among them. As the girls left, Ser Alaric Santagar approached, and came to stand beside Nathan, helping himself to some grapes. “The grapes are especially ripe, your Majesty.”

“Indeed,” Nathan nodded. “Plenty of delicacies are ripe of late,” he responded as he cut himself a slice of chocolate cake, his hand from underneath the table coming back up to assist in the cutting. He got some chocolate on his fingers, and then he licked them clean, with only the most cursory glance towards Isabella. “I have, truth be told, considered opportunities to bring our families closer together, your majesty,” Nathan told Jason. “Has that thought ever crossed your mind?”

“I can’t say that it has. Even so, I’m afraid my siblings are mostly spoken for already, and my two children are much too young for me to consider anything presently,” Jason replied. “Why do you ask?” he stated looking for some insight.

“Well, I am always interested in exploring strong opportunities for the advancement of my House, as I am sure you do for your own,” Nathan told him as he tapped Isabella’s foot under the table, as if a signal. “Just so happens I am aware of a…mutually beneficial arrangement.”

“Brother...Caesar,” Isabella spoke up. “Since you appointed me as Ambassador to Ghant...His Majesty and I have…become very familiar with one another.”

Jason perked up in his seat and leaned forward. “Finish your thought, dear sister,” he said condescendingly.

Isabella looked towards her mother, who watched from Jason’s side. “I...we’re in love,” she said nervously.

“...I would also like to point out that she has agreed to be my Ohaide, and that she is carrying my child,” Nathan said bluntly, as he reached for her hand under the table. “Full honors as a Prince or Princess of Ghant, rest assured. I feel as though your sister has done very well for herself in representing the interests of the Latin Empire, and I am sure that she will continue to do so into ripe old age here at court. I also look forward to considering you as family, and to the fruits that such a union between our Imperial Houses might bear.” Having said that, he casually took a sip of wine from his chalice.

Jason was shocked. He turned to his mother, then glared towards his sister. “I’m not sure I even know where to begin,” he said as anger began to brew inside him. “So a common, lowly concubine? That is what you’ve agreed to, is it not, Isabella? You know, Isabella a word in private?” he requested.

Isabella looked into Nathan’s eyes and gripped his hand tightly. “I will be his wife, not a concubine,” she stated defiantly. “Anything you have to say to me, you can say to the both of us.”

“Very well,” Jason Augustus stated bluntly. “So how did this come about? You opened your legs, he popped a bastard into you and this is your cover...an Ohaide?”

“Jason!” the Empress Dowager shouted at her son.

Isabella shook her head, “Of all people you have little room to talk, brother. Alexandra? Her ‘adoptive’ son Leo, she tells me everything.”

Jason slammed his fist on the table, causing his glass to fall over and break. “This isn’t about me! This is about the family. You are a Claudii, and I am the head of this family…” he said now rubbing his fingers against his temples. “God dammit.” he said.

Nathan put down his wine chalice gently, and then he leaned forward. “Romans are by nature a pragmatic people, so in lieu of that, let’s be honest. What did you want for your sister in life, hm? You wanted advancement and achievement. Now she has it. An Ohaide isn’t a Concubine, it is more than that. And that so called bastard could be the next Emperor of Ghant. You are the head of your house as well, I recognize this. Hence why I invited you here, to speak to you in person, and to gain your approval in person. I could have been an ass and dealt with you via a missive, but instead I took the time to invite you into my Palace, to treat with you man to man. And as a man with four sisters myself, I hope for them to be happy and live fruitful, productive lives. Your own sister, as a woman grown and in her thirties, has the opportunity to do just that, with me. I want you to accept that, and at the very least tolerate for the yield that it could deliver both our Empires.”

Jason leaned back in his seat during Nathan’s lecture, thinking of what to do. What am I to do. I can either drag her back home kicking and screaming, she gives birth the a bastard and hates me until the day I die. Or work around the reality, Jason thought. “You’ve really forced my hand, sister. You really have,” he said.

“Jason,” the Empress Dowager said nodding her head at Jason.

“While I do not appreciate the deceptive way which this was presented, it seems I have no choice but to agree to this union,” Jason stated. “I really wish you would have been upfront with me, sister.” This conversation isn’t over. I need to remind her of her place, he thought.

“While I agree that the situation is unfortunate, I am thankful that ultimately, you approve,” Nathan nodded. “So, how about another toast, to family?” he asked as he raised his glass.

Isabella smiled wide at her ‘victory’ and her brother’s approval. She then kissed Nathan on the cheek and raised her glass of water for the toast.

Jason grabbed a nearby glass and begrudgingly raised it along with his mother. “To family,” he said.

by **Lacus Magni** » Mon Jan 11, 2016 12:52 pm

Inperiala Palace
Ghish, Ghant
Fall 2015

“Maria’s in bed, Jason,” the Empress Dowager told her son.

“I know, I saw her a moment ago,” he quickly responded. Jason was seated in a chair that he had turned to face the window. “Thank you mother.”

Adelaide was about to exit the room before she paused. “You should apologize to your sister, and to the Emperor,” she said. “He’ll be family now, we should all get along.”

“Of course,” Jason stated, continuing to gaze out the window.

“Don’t take this so personally. I’ve never known your sister to act out of spite, especially towards you of all people,” his mother told him.

“Good night, mother,” Jason said.

“Just think it over at least. I know your father would be thrilled to see your sister or any of you children that happy, if he were still here,” she finished before exiting the room and closing the door behind her.

Jason buried his hands into his face and let out a deep sigh. On the one hand, he knew that he should be happy for Isabella, she is his older sister and she had always struggled when it came to love. But on the other, he felt that he appeared weak by not being able to control his family and only making matters worse by insulting his sister and quite possibly the Emperor of Ghant.

He grabbed a glass from the table and poured whisky into it, quickly consuming ever drop in the glass. Pouring another he walked into the restroom and turned on the shower. He placed the glass down and removed his clothes as the water warmed. By the time the water felt right, he finished another glass of whisky, then stepped into the shower.

The rushing warm water felt refreshing to the tired Emperor. He stood still in the shower for nearly two full minutes before another thought went through his empty mind. I was the one who sent her here in the first place, he thought eventually.

A fucking glorified concubine…a Claudii, one of the greatest houses on Levantia, Jason thought as he reached for the bottle of shampoo. I should have grabbed a fucking beer, he thought rinsing the shampoo out of his hair. Then he stood for some time, his hand against the wall, supporting him as the water ran down his body.

He had a great deal on his mind, especially with the death of his father still lingering over him. Even years on, the untimely and unexpected death of his beloved first wife crossed his mind. He finished cleaning himself up while his thoughts ran wild.

I’ll apologize to Isabella in the morning. No point in wasting time fighting a losing battle. Nathan though, something about him I don’t care for, he thought as he stepped out of the shower and began drying himself. Turning to look in the mirror, he slicked his wet hair back and exited the bathroom, pouring himself a generous glass of whisky yet again.

He leaned over the bed and grabbed his phone, should I call Sophie?, he thought.

IIwiki Admin · by **Ghant** » Mon Jan 11, 2016 12:55 pm

Inperiala Palace
Ghish, Ghant
Fall 2015

There was an obnoxious knock on the door, a rasping fist pounding against the wood.

Jason set his phone down on the bedside table and walked towards the door, still in his towel. “Who is it?” he asked nearing the door, responding with a voice equal to the loud pounding on the door.

“The Princess Imperial of Ghant,” the voice said, nearly breaking into laughter.

He opened the door, nearly half naked, “Forgive me for my umm...lack of clothing. To what do I owe the honor?” he asked her.

“...I heard about earlier...I thought I would ask if you wanted to hit this,” she asked sheepishly in the doorway, before holding up a large bag of marijuana.

Jason poked his head into the hallway to see if anyone was nearby, then moved out of the way. “Come on in,” he told her.

“As you say,” Arietta snuck in. She was wearing a light red dress that matched the color of her hair. For a girl her height, she was well proportioned and nicely figured. Her blue-grey eyes scanned the room as she hopped up on the bed and started rolling a blunt. “Man, this shit is so fucked up, I just heard about it. I had no idea either. But damn, man, you must be hella angry.”

Jason Augustus turned the chair he had been previously sitting in around so he could face Arietta and dragged it near the bed. “I can’t say I’m too pleased,” he said sitting down his athletic figure showing as he leaned back in the chair. “Does your brother normally keep secrets like this from you?” he asked.

“Always does, always has,” Arietta shrugged as she packed it and rolled it up. “He always has some trick up his sleeve.”

“Its not like my sister to do that. The whole situation seems strange,” he said leaning forward in the chair. “Good thing you can roll, I haven’t done it myself in years,” Jason joked.

“I am sure it will help you calm your nerves,” she told him as she finished it up and lit it, before passing it to Jason. “Nice fatty waiting to get ripped.”

He took the blunt from her and took a pull from it, causing him to cough slightly. “Damn, thats good shit. Where is this from?” Jason asked before taking another rip and then handing it back to Arietta.

“...Some place with heku in the name,” she answered before taking the blunt. She took a nice long rip from it, clearly experienced. Savoring it for a moment, she grinned and said, “I like it deep.”

“Ah, Heku. Interesting people down there,” he replied watching her smoke. “I believe that,” Jason chuckled now sitting on the edge of his seat, “it’s evident from that rip you took.”

“Yeah, I like to tear into shit pretty hard,” she giggled, taking another thorough rip before passing it back. “Is the King of Kush one of your titles?”

Jason laughed, taking another pull from the blunt. “Back in my college days. But that list of titles is so damn long, it could still be there,” he joked hitting it again. “What about you? Princess of Kush seems fitting.”

“Arietta, Princess Imperial of Ghant, Princess of Beachlife and Yoloswag,” she answered with a determined nod. “Princess of Kush is a lesser title.”

“I think I’d move Princess of Kush up in the pecking order,” he said handing the blunt to her. “Though, it might upset some tightasses, not that you seem like the type of girl that would care.”

“Fuck em...I ain’t got any worries. People can talk all they want, and while they do I am going to be laughing all the way to the bank,” Arietta laughed. “Altough, supposedly I am a tightass myself…”

“Are you?” Jason asked playfully. “Picky when it comes to men or something like that?”

“Eh...sometimes,” Arietta shrugged casually. “Depends on the mood I am in.”

Jason continued leaning forward and placed his hand on the bed, “Well...what kind of mood are you in now?”

“The get high and order pizza mood,” she said with a smirk. “I ordered some for delivery, but it must be busy tonight. I get tired of palace food sometimes, you know? Need to get some of that street shit.”

“I’d love some pizza. That fucking banquet food left a nasty taste in my mouth,” Jason said as he stood up. “Anything to drink? They gave me quite the mini-bar.”

“Well, we got some soda coming, if you like that. And some wings and breadsticks and shit,” Arietta explained. “It’s pretty fire if you want to try it out. My cousin Zelda is going to text me when its here.”

“I need something a little stronger than soda. Been a hell of a day,” Jason said grabbing the bottle of whisky. “Zelda, was she one of the girls you were with when we met earlier?” he asked walking back to sit on the side of the bed.

“Nah, that was my cousin Margaery,” she told him. “There is also Desmera and Holly. Desmera and Margaery are sisters, and so are Holly and Zelda. They are pretty cool. We make Zelda handle the pizza because she is the youngest,” Arietta laughed. “But yeah, we got some heavy shit.”

“Very heavy,” Jason laughed. “I bet your girls get in all sorts of trouble.”

“Not nearly as much as I do,” she grinned. “Holly and Zelda, not as much as Des and Marg.”

“Must drive your brother crazy,” he said stretching his arms out towards the room.

“Eh, a bit maybe. Not as much as it used to. I think now he doesn’t care as long as it isn’t anything really serious? You know what I mean? He has his own shit to worry about,” she said, finishing the blunt. Then the phone vibrated. “That’s her. I guess it’s time.”

“Off to devour that pizza then?” Jason asked Arietta.

“Yes...I plan on choking it all down,” she chuckled as she pushed herself up from the bed and scurried off into the hallway.

Jason laughed and walked towards the open door, watching move down the hallway. Backing into his room, well, that was interesting, he thought.

A few minutes later, Arietta returned, with her cousins and friends. “Sup, got the goods right here,” she gestured towards her cousin Zelda who carried a mountain of pizzas. “So, this is Des, Marg, Holly, Zel, Ella, and Jen,” she gestured to all of them in turn. “When I told them the Latin Emperor was here, they all wanted to meet you and share the food, if you don’t mind, that is.”

In perhaps a lapse of judgment or just being hungry, Jason allowed them in. “I don’t mind,” he said still shirtless. “Forgive me ladies,” he told them while digging a shirt out.

“Oh? How disappointing,” Margaery said blushing.

“I was hoping you would keep it off,” Desmera shrugged as she jumped up on the bed with some pizza.

“...But, it might be most improper for…” Zelda began to say before being interrupted.

“Shutup, Zel,” her older sister Holly said with wide eyes fixated on his chest.

“I think the Emperor should do whatever he wants,” the lovely lady Ella Maedros said as she did a light hair flip. “It is good to be the Emperor, after all.”

“Right,” Jason laughed as he picked up a shirt and pair of shorts. “Just a moment,” he said glaring towards Arietta, as he entered the restroom to change without prying eyes.

He quickly reappeared wearing a short-sleeve t-shirt that showed off his arms and some athletic shorts. “So, what kind of pizza did you ladies bring?”

Zelda, tall and thin with bright red hair and a small nose, thought as she took a bite. “Buffalo chicken, ham and pineapple, meat lovers, veggie, cheese, BBQ, Philly cheesesteak, chicken and bacon ranch, pepperoni and sausage.”

“Jesus,” Jason said approaching the pizza. “You girls were hungry,” he finished grabbing a slice of pepperoni and quickly eating it up.

“Hey Ari, where is Jodi at tonight?” Meg asked as she ate.

“I think she went home with some boy,” Arietta shrugged. “Some fucking douchebag.”

“Jesus she is still into that?” Margaery asked. Her hair was long and curly, framing a round face with gentle eyes, set upon a full figure. “You would think she would be done with that shit by now.”

“Nah, needs to work it out of her system,” Arietta reassured her. “She will eventually. Sometimes you have to work your way through some scrubs to get to the good stuff.”

“Yes, your majesty, quite hungry,” Desmera said to Jason in response. “But also left overs too.”

Jason laughed listening to the girls gossip. He always enjoyed listening to others talk around him, enabling him to get whatever information he could from it. “Ah, we don’t do leftovers back at the Palace,” he said. “Didn’t even think of that.”

“Oh, well…” Ella began. “Oftentimes it is better in the morning then it was the night before.” That got the girls sniggering.

“What,” Jason laughed. “What’s so funny?” he asked again thinking he’d missed a joke.

“Have you ever had something at night, and then had it again the following morning, only for it to be better than?” Desmera asked him.

“Perhaps...maybe back in university,” he replied with a grin.

The girls all giggled some more, before Arietta asked, “do you still want something hard to drink?” she was enjoying some buffalo chicken pizza.

Jason held up his glass of whisky, “I’ve got all I need right here, darling.” He was feeling quite buzzed at the moment, and was still unsure if he was the butt of some joke or if the girls were giggling simply because that’s what girls do.

“...Where’s your wife at?” Desmera asked, curiously. “Shame she couldn’t make it.”

“Back in Castellum, she wasn’t feeling well,” Jason told her, momentarily losing his train of thought. “So she felt it best to stay home unfortunately.”

“Yes, that is quite unfortunate,” Ella said with a hairflip.

“Man, I am full,” Meg said, putting her pizza down, which was preyed upon by Arietta. “You must still be hungry.”

“...Haven’t eaten in a day, so yeah,” Arietta responded, scarfing it down. “Meg, seriously, you should tell Jodi to stop being a slut,” the Princess laughed.

“...Yeah, like she will listen to me. She won’t even listen to you!” Meg exclaimed back.

Jason perhaps against his better judgment chimed in, “Let your friend have her fun. You won’t be young forever,” he said.

“You say that is if you are old,” Zelda replied thoughtfully.

He laughed, “Thank you for the compliment. Somewhat more seriously, he continued, “However, I say that as someone who lives a life where nearly everything you do is now planned out. State functions here, there...politics, you name it.”

“...What’s the point in being Emperor if you can’t just do what you want to, when you want to do it?” Margaery asked. “That’s what Nathan does.”

“Well, I did say nearly,” Jason winked with a laugh. “I suppose its my own fault because I like to be very...involved with everything.”

“There are people that can do that for you, you know,” Desmera was quick to point out. “Nobody can do everything.”

“Sounds like something my wife would say,” Jason smiled.

The girls laughed at that. “Like, if I want pizza, I just have Zelda order it,” Arietta giggled.

“Yes, Zelda is good for that sort of thing,” Holly teased her younger sister.

“So, did Maria have fun with my little sister?” Desmera asked. “And Holly and Zelda’s sister too.”

“She had a great time. Wouldn’t stop talking about how much fun she had when I tried to put her to bed,” Jason replied.

“Yes, they said the same,” Zelda said. “It is nice to see them all play nice together, really. Does she have many friends her age back in Castellum?”

“Not too many, aside from cousins. But she’ll actually will start attending school once the summer ends,” he replied. “So I’m sure she’ll begin making friends then.”

“Well, that’s really good,” Arietta said with a smile. “She seems like a really sweet, gentle and intelligent little girl. Future should be bright.”

“Yeah, she seems pretty cool,” Margaery said with a yawn. “Fuck I am tired.”

“Thank you. Luckily she takes more after her mother than me,” he joked. Jason peered over his shoulder to look at the time. “Is it past your bedtime,” he said poking fun at Margaery.

“Not really, just had a busy day. There is this boy that I have been trying to gain the favors of…” Margaery began to explain.

“Oh no, still chasing him?” Desmera laughed at her younger sister. “The boy is scared of his own shadow.” Leaning in towards Jason, she said, “this boy is from a foreign country where he got in trouble for having sex with a married woman...he got shipped out here to serve that country’s ambassador, and he is scared that messing up will land him in the doghouse.”

“He can land in my doghouse anytime he pleases,” Margaery said with a flushed face. The girls giggled at that, while Desmera rolled her eyes.

“That one sounds like trouble,” Jason laughed. “But I can’t imagine any of you ladies having a hard time wrapping almost anyone you pleased around your fingers.”

“Well...speaking of which, are your brothers seeing anyone?” Desmera asked, twirling her hair around her finger.

“I believe they are both spoken for,” Zelda said meekly.

“...Shutup, Zel,” Desmera said back in a hushed tone.

“Sorry darling, Zelda is correct,” Jason started. Theodosius is married to an Audonian Princess. And John is currently dating a girl who’s name I don’t remember.” Trying to think of her name, he continued to draw a blank, “Long night,” he said with a sigh.

“...She must not be very important if you can’t even remember her name,” Margaery said with a teasingly acidic tone.

“Well, if he is just dating her, then he is fair game. Girl better watch out, because that boy could get ensnared like a mouse by a bird of prey,” Arietta laughed.

“Remind me to tell him to watch his back around you, Princess,” Jason shared in her laughter. “Maybe I should be careful too,” he grinned.

“He doesn’t need to watch his back around me,” Arietta shook her head teasingly. “I am spoken for. It’s these other boycrazy girls he needs to watch out for. Boycrazy, the lot of them.”

“Ah,” Jason sighed. “Doesn’t mean you’re not still boycrazy yourself,” he playfully replied to Arietta.

“...Perhaps a bit,” she responded coyly.

It was Meg that addressed the elephant in the room. “...What about Isabella?”

“Wow Meg,” Ella shook her head. “Don’t mind her, she is just a dumb lowborn girl.”

“...Don’t pretend you are some genius, Ella,” Zelda countered.

“She’s an adult. She knows what she’s getting into,” Jason said slightly irritated. “But there’s nothing wrong with being lowborn,” he said. “My first wife was ‘lowborn,’ actually.”

“...Really?” Meg asked, curiously. “Can you tell us more about her?”

“She was very beautiful, with a mind to match. Brown hair, hazel eyes and a beautifully slim and elegant figure.” Jason told the girls. “The first time we met was when my father became co-emperor in 1992. Her father worked on his staff and he would always bring her by the Palace. She was my best friend from then on...” he said reminiscing.

“Sounds like Nathan and Sophia then,” Zelda mused softly. “They were like that.” the other girls looked down, or away, and the room became quiet and solemn.

“...I think of her everyday,” Jason quietly continued. “What happened to them?” he asked. “I mean, I assume something happened between them given, erhm, today’s events.”

“...They just started fighting and stuff,” Arietta said with a shrug. “And she became less and less intimate. So he sought it out elsewhere, like with Gaudentia.”

“Thats a shame,” he said apathetically. “What I wouldn’t give for something as pointless as another fight with Stephanie...wait, who’s Gaudentia?”

The girl’s all looked around at each other, all waiting and wondering if someone was going to say. It was Zelda who did in the end. “Nathan’s Ohaide.”

“Fucking Christ, Isabella,” he muttered to himself in Greek. “I’m sorry girls, I doubt this is something any of us want to talk about.”

“We should talk about hockey instead,” Margaery suggested.

“Nah, fuck that,” Ella said back. “Shit’s boring.”

“Anymore of that reefer, Princess?” Jason asked Arietta.

“Yeah, sure do,” she said as she whipped it out and set the bag by Jason. “Let’s see you pack it and roll it.” the other girls looked on curiously.

Jason grabbed the bag, pulling a large amount out and placing it on the paper. “Just like riding a bike, you never forget some things,” he said rolling a massive joint. “Who wants it first?”

“Me,” Desmera said with a glittering smile.

Jason passed it Desmera, “Let’s see how I did.”

Desmera took a long drag of the blunt, and even coughed. Afterwards, she mumbled, “holy shit...please tell me your wife appreciates your weed skills.”

“Good then, huh?” Jason laughed. “My wife really isn’t into this sort of thing...bit of a tight ass when it comes to some things.”

“...Do you like tight asses?” Margaery asked provocatively.

“Margaery!” Desmera exclaimed, coughing as she passed the blunt to Arietta.

“One or two,” Jason replied with a sly grin.

“I would ask, but I am not certain I wish to know,” Zelda said as she waved her hand when the blunt was passed her way.

“Zel doesn’t smoke,” Margaery said of her cousin. “How lame is that?”

“To each their own,” Holly said, defending her younger sister.

“Nothing wrong with that,” Jason said waiting for the joint to find its way around to him. “More for us then.”

Margaery passed it to the Emperor, “here it is, your majesty. Such a gentleman for letting the ladies get a hit first.”

“It’s just the sort of man I am,” he joked, accepting it. He took a large hit from the blunt, then sat back in his chair. “Damn,” he said holding the joint out.

“You did well with that,” Arietta pointed out. “Nice work.”

“...So, what are you going to do the rest of the time you are here in Ghish?” Desmera wondered.

“Probably see the city and all of that other diplomatic bullshit you’re supposed to do on trips like this. Riveting stuff,” Jason laughed quickly turning to checkout Arietta. “Any suggestions?” he asked the group.

“...You could go to the Jauneketxea Palace,” Zelda suggested. “That’s where all the lords and their representatives go to meet and talk. Sophia’s father is the Lord Paramount of the Jauneketxea...very powerful man, and well respected too.”

“There is also the Castle of Seven Towers,” Ella said. “That’s pretty cool too.”

“I wouldn’t mind meeting some of Ghantish heavyweights,” Jason said without alluding to any ulterior motive that he could have. “Now, how many towers does the castle have?” he joked.

“Seven,” Margaery answered. “Hence the name.”

“Wow, Marg is so dumb,” Ella laughed.

“Am not!” she exclaimed back.

“...See what I have to put up with?” Arietta laughed.

“I don’t know how you do it,” Jason said to Arietta. “Must take the patience of a saint,” he chuckled.

“Which is ironic, considering I am not really all that patient,” Arietta laughed, before yawning too. “All this weed and pizza is making me tired as fuck though.”

“Crashing hard?” Jason asked her with a grin.

“About to yeah,” Arietta said as she rubbed her eyes. “These broads tire me out,” she laughed.

“I can only imagine,” he said. “Maybe we should...umm call it a night then.”

“Zelda!” Arietta called out. “Pick up the pizza boxes, if you would be so kind.”

“...Alright,” she said as she began to do just that. They other girls began to shuffle and stretch in preperation.

Jason stood and began slowly walking to the door as the girls were getting ready. “You were much better company than that awful dinner party,” he told them.

“Sounds like my brother,” Arietta laughed as she gathered up her things. Zelda had the pizza boxes stacked high as she shuffled out of the room.

“A pleasure, your majesty, rest well,” Zelda told him as she shambled down the hall, Margaery not far behind her.

“Yes, a great pleasure,” Margaery told him. Holly, by nature more quiet and shy, smiled very wide at Jason.

“Nice to meet you, goodnight!” she exclaimed. Meanwhile, Desmera, Ella, Meg and Arietta were taking their time…

“The pleasure was all mine,” Jason told Margaery, Zelda and Holly. Noticing that wasn’t all of them he turned to face the room. “Struggling with something, My Ladies?” he asked the four of them.

“It isn’t often that I get to see an Emperor...I am merely bedazzled is all,” Meg said as she blushed.

“Come on, let’s go...stop being an idiot,” Ella laughed. “Common born girls, right? Always starstruck,” she told Jason as she pulled on her friends arm to get her to go. “Goodnight,” they both said in unison. That left just Arietta and Desmera, with the latter digging around and Arietta looking at her with a raised eyebrow.

“Goodnight, ladies. Very nice to meet you,” Jason said to Meg and Ella. He walked towards Arietta and Desmera and said, “And that left the most beautiful girls. Do you need any help?” he offered Desmera.

“Yup,” she responded, her face a shade of crimson. Arietta shook her head. “Stupid girl lost her phone, apparently. Terribly inconvenient, is it not?”

“Extremely,” Jason replied sarcastically. “It’s very rude to...inconvenience an Emperor. At least where I come from,” he continued equally sarcastic as he moved nearer to the girls.

“Oh, believe me I know...better than most,” Arietta said, before turning back to Desmera. “Hurry the fuck up Des, find it already. Let me call it or something…”

“I put it on silent, Ari,” Desmera responded. “I usually do when I eat and drink.”

“Oh for fucksake,” Arietta threw up her hands. She grabbed the drinks. “I ain’t going to wait around for that. You should peace out and find it tomorrow.”

“...I will be right after you. Just give me a few minutes,” she responded, climbing around on the bed.

“Whatever.” Arietta turned to Jason and inclined her head. “Nice meeting you. I am going to get out of here. Hopefully Des finds her phone though.”

“Nice to meet you too, Princess. I’ll help her find her phone. Goodnight,” he said to Arietta watching her exit.

Jason stood at the end of the bed, watching Desmera move on it. “Here, let me help you,” Jason said to her. “Another set of eyes always helps,” he continued, moving things off the bed.

“I am sure,” Arietta said as she showed herself out. Desmera remained alone with Jason, digging around the bed for her phone.

“...I can’t seem to find it,” Desmera said as she put her hands down the crevices, her large rearend sticking up in the air.

Jason tilted his head, glaring at her backside. Then he crawled onto the bed near Desmera. “Is this where you think it went?” he asked her as he put his hand down the gap.

“Yeah…” she blushed as she dug in the gap, before snatching something and pulling it out. “Got it!” she laughed as she rolled over on the bed, face up and large chest heaving. “This is one reason why I wish this dress had pockets!”

Jason turned around and sat on the bed with his back against the headrest, looking over Desmera’s body. “That’s why I prefer to wear pants, personally,” he joked with her. “Though you look much better in dress than I ever would.”

Desmera laughed. “You didn’t strike me as the sort to dress in drag, your majesty. And really? You would prefer to wear pants as opposed to not?”

“Please, just Jason,” he told her. “Well, I prefer pants to a dress. Going natural is always more...pleasurable,” he finished with a coy smile.

“Oh of course, Jason,” she grinned as she laid on the bed, looking up at the ceiling and tugging at her white dress. Then her eyes began to shut.

With his eyes still stuck on her body, Jason slid down and laid next to her. “Tired?” he asked her.

“...Bed’s too comfortable,” she said lazily.

“Very comfortable,” he said to her softly. “It is a bed fit for an Emperor, after all.”

“...Yup,” she said before yawning, eyes still closed. “Might as well sleep here tonight.”

“Might as well,” Jason repeated. “I can’t send a tired girl away all alone in the middle of the night.”

“That’s very kind,” she said, squirming around a bit.

“Jason the kind, they call me,” he said inching closer to her. “But be warned, I do sleep in the nude.”

“...hmm…” she muttered softly in response to that.

Jason was lying on his side close to Desmera now. He placed his hand on her far hip and moved it up her body towards her chest.

For the time being, she didn’t respond to that, merely lying still, breathing slowly, eyes closed.

He looked at her for a sign and placed his hand on her breast above the dress, slowly moving around it.

That got her attention, making her come to and shoot up. “Oh!”

“Do you not like that?” he asked her pulling his hand back.

“...I...wasn’t expecting that...aren’t you married?” Desmera asked, breathing fast and hard. “I...don’t...know what to say…”

“I’m sorry,” he told her. “I just assumed that...that this is why you asked to stay here tonight.” Moving off the bed and standing now, “Forgive me, I don’t wish to force anything on you. Its just...well you are very beautiful.”

Blushing profusely, Desmera smiled. “It’s ok...and thank you, Jason, truly.” With a hand tugging on her dress, she looked at him and said, “if you really want to get back at my cousin and your sister...be a good man. There aren’t many out there, you know. Sometimes...I wish that men in power were good. I think you are good, Jason Augustus.”

“I have no ill will towards them. I have nothing but love for my sister,” he said embarrassed. “I’m afraid My Lady, the world doesn’t allow men in my position be good people...no matter how hard we try. I...I am truly sorry if I have offended you. I understand if you would like to leave,” he finished telling her.

“You have not,” Desmera smiled. She got up from the bed, and planted a kiss on his cheek, with a hand on his chest. “It’s always the thought that counts,” she told him with big bright eyes, before sneaking out the door.

Jason closed the door once she exited and leaned against it. What a strange fucking night, he thought as he flopped into the bed.

IIwiki Admin · by **Ghant** » Mon Jan 11, 2016 12:59 pm

Inperiala Palace
Ghish, Ghant
December 2015

The Palace had become a strange place of late. The Empress was indisposed with a baby on the way, the Ohaide Gaudentia had given birth to a son named Victor in August, and the newly fashioned Ohaide Isabella was seven months along, due around March of 2016. The snows swirled outside the Imperial Palace, piling high upon the ground, and giving greater comfort to the snugness of the palace interior.

Isabella watched the snows move as she glanced out a nearby window. Snow was rare back in Latium, unless you were near the Kuhlfrosian border at the right time of year. She placed her hand on her full womb after she felt a kick from the unborn Prince or Princess, pulling her attention away from the window. Soon she backed away from the window and put a dark sweater on, covering her pregnant state.

There was a knock on the chamber doors, polite yet firm.

Isabella pulled the sweater closer to her body, wrapping her arms around while she walked to the door. Reaching the door, she opened it.

At the door stood a middle aged woman, with a dignified yet mischievous looking face, fair and lightly freckled with large brown eyes and dark red hair surrounding it. She maintained an hourglass figure and a firm, full chest that stayed in place. She was wearing a thick wool dress the color of dirty snow. She eyed the woman up and down, lingering on her stomach. “Princess Isabella of Lusitania, I presume?”

“Yes, ma’am,” Isabella answered looking the woman in the eyes. “Can I help you with something?” she asked.

“Do you know who I am?” the redheaded woman asked, bluntly.

“I...I’m sorry, I don’t,” Isabella said with hesitation.

“Nathan’s mother, Caroline. Mind if I come inside?” Caroline asked. “...My son gets that from me,” she sniggered, looking at Isabella’s swollen belly.

“Oh, please. Please come in,” Isabella responded before blushing and laughing. “What do I owe the pleasure?” she asked.

“I haven’t met you yet...I wanted to see you for yourself,” Caroline answered as she entered the room and found somewhere comfortable to sit down. “And surely you wanted to meet your so called mother-in-law.”

“Of course,” Isabella smiled to her. “Well...here I am. Can I get you anything?” she laughed before offering something to her.

“Some tea would be nice...or some wine,” Caroline nodded. She stared at the burning fireplace. “Do you know what the child shall be, or will it be a surprise?”

Isabella grabbed a bottle of wine and poured a glass for Caroline. She walked over and handed it to her before sitting down across from her. “It will be a complete surprise.”

“Sort of like when I find out about you and my son,” Caroline responded monotone as she took the glass of wine. “Curious, how that transpired.”

“Ah, well it was something that just happened,” Isabella spoke nervously. “My brother, the Emperor, appointed me as Ambassador…” she said repositioning herself. “And Nathan and I corresponded often during that time.”

“Corresponded,” Caroline laughed as she took a drink of the wine. “Dare I ask, what are your intentions?”

“My intentions?” Isabella asked. “...I intend to continue loving him, Your Highness.”

“Good, although that begs the question...what does love consist of, in your opinion?” Caroline asked softly, a faint smile on her face.

“Its uhh...I don’t think something that can be easily explained,” Isabella started saying, leaning back in her chair to attempt to relax. “He has been there for me, supports me and I’m there for him and I support him. I know how stressful ruling can be…” she attempted to explain.

“Have you ever ruled anything?” Caroline probed her with a tilted head.

Biting her tongue Isabella chose her words carefully. “I’ve seen the toll it can take on family members...my father, my brother, even my grandfather. I don’t need to have ever ruled to observe the toll it can take on someone.”

“Here in Ghant, Sophia does the bulk of the ruling,” Caroline pointed out. “I wonder what your thoughts are on her...or if you care about what toll it takes on her.”

“I haven’t interacted with her enough to formulate any kind of opinion, Your Highness,” Isabella told her. Not that I care at all about how hard it is on her, she thought.

“That’s awfully convenient,“ the Princess laughed amusingly. “You should be grateful. Had I have been her, I would have had your seized and deported, consequences be damned. Yet, my daughter-in-law is a gentle sort, and quite accepting of my son’s...behavior.”

“And you don’t approve?” Isabella bluntly asked Caroline.

“I don’t know yet,” Caroline answered truthfully as she continued to drink her wine. “I am a mother who knows how easily her son is manipulated by pretty highborn girls. If my grandchild is a son, then you will learn of this concern on your own, in time.”

“With all due respect, Your Highness, you do not understand the inner workings of our relationship...how members of my own family, my brother in particular, have told me they disapprove,” Isabella spoke with conviction. “If I were here to simply manipulate your son for my personal gain, I would not have stuck around here as long as I have. I am here because I deeply care for him.”

“That’s good, then,” the older woman said with a smile. “We should get along quite nicely then. I was hoping that might be the case.”

“I’d like that very much,” Isabella smiled back to her.

“Very good.” Leaning forward a bit, she continued. “And I trust you will respect Sophia’s position as Empress and that of her children, the Crown Prince as heir to Ghant?”

“I respect the succession laws, Your Highness,” the Latin Princess told her, resting her hands on her belly.

“Good. Well, it seems like you know your place well enough, and that of your unborn,” Caroline said with a smile before downing some more wine. “Wars have been started for less, and recent ones as that...if you consider the 19th century recent, that is.”

“There’s no need for people to die over something as silly as that,” Isabella told her adjusting her sweater. “Latin history is plagued with wars fought over equally frivolous things.”

“Indeed, that is unsurprising.” Rising to her feet, Caroline extended her arm. “Come, dinner is soon. I came to fetch you for it as well.”

The Latin Princess stood and took Caroline’s arm. “Thank God. I’m absolutely starving,” she laughed.

“Well, you are eating for two,” Caroline said as they began to walk down the hall, arm in arm. “When I was pregnant with Nathan, I could eat an entire feast by myself,” she said laughing. “I was younger than you are at that time...seems like so long ago. Where does the time go?”

“Lord, I feel like I’m constantly eating and always hungry,” Isabella laughed. “It certainly does fly-by, it seems like just yesterday I flew in from Castellum. And now I’m already seven months...” she went on before feeling another kick in her belly.

“We will have to see if you manage to lose some of it then,” Caroline told her with a smile as they walked down the hall. “Are you nervous at all?”

Isabella laughed along, “I was in pretty good shape before. I hope it won’t be an issue. Was it difficult for you?”

“...Not really,” Caroline shrugged. “I have always had good metabolism. Got it from my mother’s side. Flavia Ahenobarba of Rome.”

“I have some Roman blood in me, hopefully its the same for me,” Isabella smiled to her. “Though I’d feel blessed to look as in shape as you after.”

“Well, I am fifty years old too,” the older woman laughed as the approached the feast hall. “Enjoy your youth while you still have it.”

With the door opened slightly, Caroline slid in, and took note of her surroundings. The feast hall was brightly lit, and the table set with food and beverage, including the usual ham, turkey, boar, meat stew, vegetables cooked and raw, fruits, breads, puddings, so on and so forth. Nathan and Sophia sat at the head of the table, while on Sophia’s side sat her brother Martin, father Malibar, and other prominent members of that court. On Nathan’s side sat his sisters Arietta, Alexia, Alexandra, Amelia and brother Charles. The girls all turned their heads to see Isabella, while Malibar gave her only a cursory glance. Other members of the Imperial and Royal families spoke among each other at the sight of her. Sophia took the opportunity to bring Nathan into some unseen conversation.

Isabella glanced quickly around the entire room, and quickly felt like a leper. But she held her head high and followed Caroline into the hall. She looked towards Nathan as she neared her seat at the table.

Amelia was waiting, and helped Isabella’s chair out. Sophia saw her approach her assigned seat, and then turned to Nathan, kissing him on the mouth. Caroline took the seat opposite of Isabella, while Malibar looked on with raised eyebrows, rubbing his hands over one another.

“Thank you,” Isabella said softly to Amelia as she sat down. Noticing Sophia make a move on Nathan caused her eyebrow to raise, but she kept her smile and faced forward catching the gaze of the man on the other side of the table.

“A pleasure, Your Highness,” Malibar said to Isabella across the table. “I am Malibar, King of Dakmoor, and Lord Paramount of the Jauneketxea. Tis an honor to have you at this table.”

“I thank you for the kind welcome, Your Majesty,” Isabella cheerfully said to Malibar. “But I’m honored to be sharing a table with company such as this.”

“...Indeed you should be,” he responded austerely.

Caroline sighed softly. “Don’t mind him...he is always humorless and blunt like that,” she told Isabella quietly as she helped herself to some ham and mashed potatoes.

Isabella raised her eyebrows, but said nothing in response to Malibar and simply nodded to Caroline. Then she began to fill her plate with almost whatever she could reach, though trying not to seem like a pig.

Amelia didn’’t seem to care. She piled her plate with mashed potatoes and brown gravy, ham and pineapple slices, and went wholeheartedly for the tapioca pudding. “Did you see baby Valerie?” Amelia asked Isabella. “She is very cute. She has brown hair like me!”

“I haven’t,” Isabella said after taking a bite of bread. “Does she? Well she can be a member of the brown hair club, just like you and me then,” she smiled to Amelia picking up her glass of water.

“Yeah, it is really fair but one can see it,” Amelia went on. “Brown hair is best hair. I don’t care what Arietta says about red hair, I think that sucks.”

“Ah, lets hope it stays that color then,” Isabella joked with her before taking a bite of turkey. “Red hair is very pretty,” she continued with a laugh, “but it just doesn’t compare with our brown hair.”

“I will laugh if your child is a redhead then,” Caroline said amusingly as she ate, giving shy glances to Malibar as he drank some wine while eating bread.

An older man was sitting next to Caroline, with faded reddish-brown hair. He was fat, but also tall. “That must be Isabella, eh? Oh, she took with child quite quickly. That’s how you can tell she is Latin...they are very efficient, heheh.”

“Father!” Caroline softly exclaimed in embarrassment, while Amelia giggled profusely.

Isabella’s face became red and she quickly tried to cover it by taking a long and drawn out drink from her glass. She was unsure what to say, or even if she should say anything at all.

“This is my father, Lord Raymond Zuria. He looked like Nathan when he was younger…” Caroline began to explain.

“...Shame you weren’t around back in those days,” Raymond laughed heartily. “I got stuck with a redhead. Blood runs hot in those, let me tell you. Although I should admit, she is the one that got stuck with me...or by me...”

Caroline couldn’t help but sigh and do a facepalm, while the girls down the way began to giggle.

“I...uh, that’s very interesting,” Isabella replied, still completely red in the face. Then she began fiddling with the food on her plate to distract herself from the conversation.

“Oh my, the tapioca pudding is quite good,” Nathan exclaimed, looking over at his grandfather. “Grandpa, what do you think about it?”

“...Tis quite creamy,” Raymond answered. “I especially like the pineapple tidbits.”

“You should try them with whipped cream, then,” Sophia said with a smile. “Very good.”

“Oh yes I am sure. If Her Majesty says it is good then it must be so,” Raymond sniggered.

Guess I won’t be trying that with whipped cream, Isabella thought to herself. She took one last bite from her now empty plate and slightly leaned into her chair, looking around the hall with her eyes landing on Nathan.

Nathan looked at Isabella when she looked at him. Sophia saw this, and pulled him for another kiss...this one more racy than the one previous. Her brother and father pretended not to notice. Charles looked at Isabella. “He puts on a good show whenever Malibar is around.”

Isabella looked away when Sophia kissed Nathan again. It seemed clear to her that Sophia was doing it simply to spite her. “I’m not sure it’s him that’s putting on the show,” she said quietly to Charles.

“Hmm…” Charles wasn’t quite sure what to say.

Amelia was though. “...You jealous?”

“...Just observant,” Isabella tried to whisper back.

“So,” Malibar began to say, “How have you been finding your stay in Ghish, Your Highness?” he asked Isabella, an interested look on his face.

“I’ve enjoyed it so far, Your Highness,” Isabella began. “Everyone has been so kind and has truly made me feel welcome.”

“Good, that pleases me greatly,” he responded with a nod of his head. “You are more important to this nation’s fortunes then you realize.”

Isabella made a quick look of the eyes over to Nathan and Sophia before responding. “Oh, am I? How so?” she asked Malibar.

“Politics, Your Highness,” Malibar spoke firmly and clearly. “The world is a dangerous place filled with opportunists and cutthroats. Friends are hard to come by. I suspect that the Latin Empire would be a very good friend to have indeed, wouldn’t you?”

“Ah, politics...of course,” Isabella nodded. “Admittedly, politics has never been one of my great interests. But the Latin people are fiercely loyal, and make fine friends, Your Majesty.”

“I think you are more political than you give yourself credit for.” nodding his head towards his daughter, he continued. “At the end of the day, what matters is your children. Ensuring their success and wellbeing. I have done that. Sophia is doing that. So are you. I believe that closer ties between the Latin and Ghantish Empires will increase that tenfold. You realize that, I can tell. And you have made sacrifices for it, and I respect that.”

“That means alot coming from a man with vision, such as yourself,” she told him. “My mother always told me something similar in regards to one’s children. While I’m not yet a mother, I only want what is best for Nathan and mine’s child. If that helps grow ties between our people, well that is only another benefit.”

Malibar rubbed his hands over the joints in his hands as he considered that. “Indeed, I am only concerned that my daughter’s position is secure, as is that of her children. What my son-in-law does or doesn’t do in his own time is of little concern to me. What concerns me is the potential that you being here can do for Ghant, same for the child in your belly. And I am thinking quite a bit on both accounts...something that nothing myself or my daughter could do in the immediate time.”

“That is understandable, Your Majesty,” Isabella sympathized with him. “But from my, I suppose, limited, understanding of the government and culture your daughter is the Empress. I am not. It seems her position is quite secure.” She placed both hands on her belly, “What is it you wish to see from my and my child’s being here?”

“Political alignment with the Latin Empire...and LATA by extension,” Malibar answered in between sips of wine. “Your brother might not be thrilled with this Imperial Affair, nor my daughter, but I believe in time it will pay dividends.”

“Not being thrilled, would be putting my brothers feelings mildly,” she laughed. “I think it’d be best to give Jason a bit of time to cool down before we mention anything about the LATA,” Isabella stated.

“Of course. I believe a few years ought to be sufficient for that.” Looking around, Malibar continued, soft in speech. “Seeds grow strong with time and proper care. And this is a seed that I wish to see sown, and eventually reaped. I think you would like that too. The things we want come in time, provided we are patient enough to wait for them to come to fruitition.”

Isabella nodded to Malibar then looked to Nathan. “What do you think of this, Nathan? Do you agree?”

Nathan turned his gaze across the table. “Oh? Think of what? Sorry, I wasn’t paying attention,” he said with a smirk. “It is an awfully big, long table.”

“Of Ghant and the potential of an alignment with Latium and the LATA,” Isabella smiled to him.

“Oh? Well...what about the NU?” Nathan asked with a tilted head. Sophia narrowed her eyes at that, and Nathan jumped under the table from something under the table.

“I suppose that would be beneficial if you’d like to be pariah,” Isabella responded in a snarky tone, her vision narrowing on the head of the table.

“...Isn’t that the one with Skuldan in it?” Nathan’s cousin Seraphina asked.

“Oh yeah, it is, isn’t it? Well, fuck that then. But I wonder...what can LATA do for Ghant?” Nathan asked.

“...I wonder,” Isabella said with a slightly aggravated tone. “Maybe we should just move on to a different topic.”

“How are you feeling, Your Highness?” Sophia obliged in a neutral tone, but also slightly aggravated.

“Aside from feeling like I take up half the room,” Isabella joked, “I feel fine. Yourself?”

“Quite bloated, although, I have found that delivering only one baby is far easier than delivering three at a time,” Sophia laughed.

“I had twins, and they came last,” Caroline chimed in. “After that, I decided on no more,” she said as she looked at the twins, who shrugged as they kept eating. Charles looking exceptionally blank and Amelia looking exceptionally amused.

“I can’t even imagine that. One at a time for me, thanks,” Isabella laughed.

“You say that, but you can’t account for luck,” Caroline laughed.

“The seed is strong, what can I say,” Nathan laughed as he looked at his grandfather, who laughed along with him.

Isabella laughed along and pushed her plate away from her. She pulled her sweater tighter around her body and let out a sigh, trying to catch Nathan’s eyes.

Nathan returned the look as he continued eating and drinking. He suspected that something was amiss, and so he leaned forward a bit, as if interested in hearing what she had to say.

She threw back a soft wave of her hand to show that it could wait. Isabella scooped some of the pudding onto her plate and took a small taste.

“I quite fancy the chocolate pudding, Your Highness, it comes with a strong recommendation,” Crown Prince Martin of Dakmoor said to Isabella. Nathan’s closest childhood friend, Martin was taller and stronger, with a solemn fair face accompanied by short black hair and deep blue eyes. His smile was straight and sparkly, and it seemed natural...despite knowing who she was and what she had done.

Isabella harmlessly licked remaining pudding off her lip before speaking. “Mhm, very good indeed,” she smiled to Martin. “A fine recommendation,” she said before taking another spoonful.

That exchange made Nathan slightly narrow his eyes. “How does it compare to the tapioca pudding, Isabella?”

“You know I enjoy the tapioca,” Isabella smiled to him with a loving look in her eyes. “But chocolate has always been a favorite of mine, sweetheart.”

“Sweetheart now is it?” Sophia asked, loud enough for those people seated further down the table to take note of.

“Yes...that’s what I said,” Isabella said as politely as she could.

The Empress wasn’t amused, but before she could respond, Nathan got up and stretched. “Well, dinner was very good, but now I find myself needing to use the restroom. If you would excuse me,” he said as he inclined his head, glancing at Isabella one last time before walking away towards the bathroom.

Isabella watched as he exited, feeling a sense of relief that he was no longer near Sophia. She took the last taste of pudding, placed her spoon down and then felt her stomach rumble audibly. “At this point I can’t tell if that was the baby or me,” she said attempting to lighten the mood.

“Could have been both,” Caroline pointed out. “I wouldn’t put it past, anyway.”

“Does...it, make you more hungry?” Princess Seraphina asked Isabella. “Aren’t you afraid of getting fat?”

“Not really. I’ve been trying to stay in shape as best I can throughout,” Isabella told Seraphina. “But it certainly does make me hungrier,” she giggled.

“Of course, Your Highness,” the shy girl responded. Elsewhere, Nathan sent Isabella a text. You alright?

Isabella secretly looked below to read the message. I was more concerned about you being next to her she messaged back to him. “I’d like to thank you all for having me tonight, especially you, Your Majesty,” she directed towards Sophia. “But I’m afraid I must return to my room. I think all the mothers can attest to how this can affect us,” she finished pointing to her belly.

“Might I see you back there?” Caroline asked her.

“Please,” Isabella responded kindly to her as she stood and began nearing the door.

Caroline helped her up, and offered her an arm to lead her from the room. “With me, then.”

Isabella took her arm and walked towards her room. “I had no idea there would be so many people at dinner,” she said to Caroline.

“Well, it is that time of year. Just wait until the northerlings get here...they are quite a bit of fun, that lot,” Caroline laughed. “Ghish is quite like any other major city, but the further north you go...the further back in time you go.”

“Oh boy,” Isabella laughed in response. “That should be interesting to see then. It seems the northerners of any land are always a tad...different, aren’t they?”

“...You could say that.” Walking down the hall, the older woman raised an eyebrow. “Something was bothering you earlier…”

Isabella hesitated before responding. “...Just maternity mood swings is all, I’m afraid. I hope I wasn’t giving off a stink eye to anyone.”

“Sophia didn’t seem too thrilled,” Caroline shrugged. “Ever think about trying to be her friend?”

“No,” Isabella stated bluntly. “...at least not now, I...I have a lot on my mind, Your Highness.”

“Fair enough. Let’s get you back to your room, nice and comfortable...we are not far now,” Caroline reassured the younger woman.

While Isabella didn’t necessarily want to be friends with Sophia, she kept it in the back of her mind, maybe I should at least try and be friendly, she thought. “Yes, nearly there. All I want to do is sit down again,” she laughed.

“Maybe lie down and watch TV,” Caroline said softly as they came to a stop outside the door to Isabella’s chambers. “Rest well, and don’t be too hard on yourself. If you are stressed, the baby will know.”

“I’ll try, Your Highness,” Isabella said pushing open the door. “And thank you for being so kind,” she finished before giving Caroline a quick hug.

Caroline returned the embrace. “Of course, sweetling. We can talk more later.” Afterwards, she curtsied and scurried off back down the hall.

Isabella walked through the door and tossed her sweater on the bed, immediately walking towards a chair. Dinner was certainly interesting, she thought.

“What’s up?” Nathan asked as he laid in her bed, reading a book. “I was hoping you would take off more than that…” he smirked.

“God!” Isabella said startled, “I didn’t even see you.” She turned and neared the bed, “I very much doubt you want to see much more,” she joked to him.

“Don’t be so sure,” he sniggered. “At the very least, I thought you might want to snuggle under the covers on a cold Ghish night. There are lots of good movies on this time of year…”

“You know I never turn down a snuggle with you,” Isabella told him crawling onto the bed with him. She nuzzled close to him and pulled the covers over her. “What was up with Sophia tonight?” she blurted out.

“Just being affectionate, is all.” Nathan assured her as he wrapped his arms around her and pressed her against him. “You're not the only woman that considers me her sweetheart, you know.”

“Just seems that every time I looked in your direction she just...pulled you in,” she told him. “And maybe I’m being that crazy pregnant woman, but it seemed like she just wanted me to see it.”

“Might just be trying to mark her territory,” Nathan said as he stroked her hair and kissed her neck. “I wonder what you will do to mark yours, given the opportunity,” he chuckled softly as he reached into her shirt.

“Well, you’re here with me and she’s without,” Isabella grinned to him as she moved her hand up and down his leg.

“She has her hands full with other things...maybe you should too,” he returned the grin as he massaged her belly and caressed her bosom.

“Like this kind of thing?” she playfully asked him as she gripped his manhood.

“...You could say that,” he gasped before kissing her hungrily.

Isabella slide her hand into his pants and softly massaged his lower regions, while returning the kiss with a matching fury.

“I think you are very good at marking your territory,” he said as he began working fast at her clothes in an attempt to get them off of her.

“The best,” she said between kisses. She helped him at removing her top, her chest now exposed. Then she began trying to remove his pants, so she could have free reign with him.

“And here I thought you were full,” Nathan started to laugh. “Seems like you are still hungry.”

“Maybe just a little,” Isabella smiled back to him, slowly playing with him.

Grinning, Nathan replied, saying, “Fortunately for you, it’s an all you can eat, and it lasts all night.”

IIwiki Admin · by **Ghant** » Mon Jan 11, 2016 1:01 pm

Inperiala Palace
Ghish, Ghant
May 2016

“...Get back here!”

The Emperor had spent the better part of the afternoon chasing his toddlers around the Palace, especially Princess Sara. She was the easiest to find, because she always emerged to give her father an affectionate embrace. This was no unique occasion either, as she tried to climb up his leg after revealing herself from a hiding spot. Nathan picked her up and held her close, and the little girl with deep blue eyes and dark brown hair wrapped her arms around his neck and gave him kisses on his face, giggling in delight in her little white dress.

Isabella entered the room, wearing a dark floor length dress, with her newborn son cradled in her arms. She smiled at Nathan when she walked through the doorway, as little Leo was softly sleeping in her embrace. “Losing hide-and-go-seek again?” she said to Nathan in jest.

“Rather, the game is being handed to me,” he laughed in response as he approached Isabella. Sara took the opportunity to lean over and kiss the baby boy on the forehead, and pat his head.

Leo opened his eyes, revealing a dark brown shade similar to his mother’s. “Ah,” Isabella smiled to him. “Perhaps it is all part of the Princess’s cunning strategy.”

“Must be so...to please daddy. It is quite effective,” he said with a laugh as he turned to see his cousin Cassandra with the Crown Prince flung over her shoulder. The Princess was beautiful by most accounts, tall and shapely with long brown hair and striking light brown eyes. She was wearing a black satin dress that was held in place with a strap wrapping around her hourglass shaped waist.

“Looks like I found the little troublemaker,” Princess Cassandra grinned with the prince squirming over her shoulder. When Isabella came into his view, he seemed to glare at her.

“Looks as if you couldn’t even win the game on your own,” Isabella laughed to Nathan. Noticing the look on the Crown Prince’s face, she smiled to him and then to Cassandra. “Princess Cassandra isn’t it?” she asked with a sham smile.

“Why yes, that would be me,” Cassandra said with a vapid smile. “And you must be Isabella of Lusitania, sister of the Latin Emperor Jason. Well met. Has Nathan ever told you how I am his favorite cousin?” she asked with a mischievous face.

“Tis true,” Nathan said with a grin. “You and Cassie I am sure would make good friends.”

“...Oh, I think so too,” Cassandra responded in a conspicuously neutral tone.

“That’s me,” Isabella smiled to Cassandra. “Is that so? Well, I’ve noticed that Nathan usually has a good eye for that sort of thing. I’m sure we’ll get along very well,” she stated.

“...He has a very good eye indeed,” she sniggered. As Nathan consoled his daughter, Cassandra continued, asking, “so, how does it feel to be a first time mother? Forgive my curiosity...I don’t have any children of my own.”

“Its...it's been quite the experience so far,” Isabella began. “Very tiring. But I’m sure that is apparent just from looking at me,” she continued with a laugh.

“You seem to look...fine to me,” Cassandra offered. “Little man keeping you awake all night?” she asked with a raised eyebrow.

“Well, thank you,” Isabella replied. “Yes...quiet now, but he can be quite the noise maker at night.”

“That’s one thing he and his father have in common then it would seem,” she said with a playful laugh.

Nathan turned around and reengaged the conversation. “So, do you ladies have any plans for the day?”

“Uh huh,” Isabella nodded to Cassandra. “I don’t believe I have anything pressing planned, love,” she replied with her eyes locked on Nathan.

“Perhaps you and I could do something, Princess,” Isabella said to Cassandra.

Nathan looked at the baby, and then at Isabella before speaking. “I would like to think that I help to lighten the load some,” Nathan said, nodding. “Resting might be in short order...God knows you could use some more of that.”

“I’d say you’ve been very helpful,” Isabella told Nathan, planting a kiss on his cheek. “Though I’d love a rest or something relaxing.”

“...What about the pool?” Nathan wondered. “Nice and warm and relaxing.”

“That would be fun,” Isabella replied. “Think you can handle this little one on your own?” she grinned to Nathan.

“Yeah, I think I can manage him quite fine,” he responded, examining the baby. He looks like his mother. “He is a good baby, I think.”

Isabella handed Leo to Nathan, which resulted in the baby giving out a big yawn. “Be good for daddy,” she said softly to Leo, kissing his forehead. “Care to join me at the pool, Cassandra” Isabella asked.

Nathan held Sara in one arm and Leo in the other. Sara fawned over the baby and pet him, while Nathan began to walk down the hall.

“Why yes, of course...although I ought to change first,” Cassandra told Isabella. “Unless you fancy the notion of swimming naked…”

“I’ll have to change as well...I hadn’t planned on swimming naked,” Isabella said rather bluntly.

“The best things in life are those things which are unplanned,” Cassandra said with a shrug. “Alas, I am off to change,” she said as she scurried off down the hall.

“I better be off too. I’ll see you two later,” Isabella said moving in to kiss Nathan on the lips before heading towards her quarters to change.

Nathan took Sara back to her chambers for a time, and then returned to his own with baby Leo. Once there, he sat the baby down on the bed and began to undress, before going to his closet for a pair of shorts.

Isabella scurried back to her quarters and reached into one of her dressers to search for a bathing suit. After pulling one out she slide out of her dress and began putting it on, followed by a cover up. While her body looked nearly as it had pre-pregnancy, she remained self-conscious of her appearance.

After changing into his swimming trunks, Nathan picked up Leo and held him against his bare chest. The child seemed to take more after Sara and John than Nathan...more easy going and mild-mannered. Then he began to walk down the hall with baby in his arms.

Adjusting her top, Isabella exited her room and stepped into the hallway. May not even take this cover off. I look horrid, she thought as she made her way to the pool.

The Emperor walked down the hall and took a set of double doors down to a staircase that descended to the basement level. Down another well lit hall he went, until he came once again upon another set of double doors that led into the pool area. It was expansive and the pool large and deep in a rectangular shape, with one end being shallow and the other end ten feet deep.

Nathan saw his cousin Cassandra in a skimpy two piece suit, sitting in the shallow end with a bottle of wine and some glasses. “There you are,” Cassandra said with a grin as she shifted her curvy body. “I was wondering when you might come.”

“...You certainly got down here pretty fast,” Nathan laughed as he sat beside her with Leo in his arm. “I never figured out how you were able to do everything so quickly.”

“...Because I don’t like to waste my time,” she responded as she poured a glass and put it to his lips. “And you were always pretty fast yourself, you know. Especially when it comes to coming.”

“That’s hogwash,” Nathan laughed after accepting the drink...she made him drink it all. “You can’t hold me accountable for how I was nine years ago...now I take my sweet time.”

“Not in the beginning you didn’t,” she laughed. “You had to be properly and thoroughly trained, like any artist at his craft…”

“Hello, you two. How’s the water?” Isabella said with a smile as she entered the pool area.

“It is nice and warm,” Nathan said with a smile, as he lowered Leo so he could splash in the water a bit.

“...Just the way he likes it,” Cassandra said with a smirk, as she poured some wine. “Here, have a glass of black wine.”

“Thanks,” Isabella said accepting the glass of wine. She sat down on the edge of the pool and dipped her legs into the water with her cover-up still on her upper body. “Looks like the little one is enjoying himself,” she stated with a smile before sipping from her wine.

“He doesn’t seem to mind the water at all,” Nathan responded as he let the baby rest on one arm in the water halfway up to his chest, while he drank some wine with the other hand. “He looks like Jason,” he said with a laugh.

“He does doesn’t he? I suppose he could do worse...I mean he could end up looking more like you,” Isabella replied poking fun at Nathan.

“Yeah, I know right?” Nathan laughed.

Cassandra examined the baby boy, looking him over thoroughly. “He certainly has the Gentry look, no doubt about that...I see he is uncut as well.”

“I am not a fan of cutting,” Nathan countered. “I see no reason for it beyond cultural cosmetic reasons that are highly superficial in nature.”

“Wise,” Cassandra responded as she took another drink. “Although I can’t imagine that his Latin family will be thrilled with that decision, given their cultural and religious persuasions.”

“Well, Nathan obviously seemed more in favor of it and it seemed best to keep with the customs of the land,” Isabella said in response. She took a small sip from her glass and chuckled slightly, “Oh, I don’t know if my brother could even think less of me now than he does. What’s one more reason going to hurt?”

“...Has he seen this child yet?” Nathan asked. “Maybe once he does he will change his attitude a bit. Prince Leo of Ghant is going to be a heartbreaker. Can’t wait to unleash him on Castellum in about eighteen years.”

“I sent pictures to mother and told her to share them. Never heard from Jason though,” Isabella stated slightly angry with her brother. “Castellum wouldn’t know what hit them,” she laughed finishing her glass of wine.

“And what does your mother think?” Cassandra asked, curiously.

“...She probably thinks he is the greatest thing since sliced bread,” Nathan laughed, as he carefully watched the baby.

“She thinks he’s adorable. And that he looks more Latin than my nephew, Prince Alexander,” Isabella told Cassandra.

“I wonder if she told Jason that,” Nathan laughed. “The look on his face if she did…”

“Not a chance,” Isabella joked back. “Could you imagine his reaction?” she continued through her laughter.

“Speaking of which,” Nathan began. “We should invite your family here to see him, or we can go there,” he suggested. “Going there would leave no chance of being ignored.”

“Might be best to arrange a visit there,” Isabella said looking at Leo. “Jason might be bitter and still upset, but he can’t refuse me from travelling to my home with my family.”

“Precisely. And of course, we can see how Leo is received at court...which ought to be interesting,” he replied.

“Could be asking for trouble,” Cassandra countered. “I suspect that he will see the child as a slight, and will think that you are trying to rub the baby in his face.”

“I guess that is a possibility. But he’d be alone in that feeling and I would really like to visit,” Isabella told her. “Besides, my mother would love to see her grandson.”

“Consider it done, then,” Nathan said with a smile. “Castellum it is. Hopefully the weather this time of year is nice. And I would like to see the city and visit court in any case.”

“Just be prepared to hear all about the ‘ancient history’ we love to brag about,” she laughed. “If you can stand that, I think you might enjoy it.”

“Considering how much I love to brag about ancient history, I think I will manage just fine,” he said with a chuckle. “I mean, that’s like my favorite thing to talk about.” Looking at Leo, Nathan set aside his wineglass and went out into the water, walking along the bottom. Then he lowered the baby into the water some more, but not all the way.

“Don’t go too deep with him, Nathan,” Isabella said rather audibly in a motherly tone.

“I won’t...shallow water,” Nathan responded. “I just needed to get up and walk around a bit.” Truth be told, the child was quite content and well-mannered, a fact that he greatly appreciated. “If he decides to go potty, better he does it over here anyway.”

“Disgusting…” Isabella laughed before turning to Cassandra. “You two seem to be good friends. It’s always nice to see family being so close and friendly.”

“Yes, good friends,” Cassandra looked out into the water. “Do you have cousins that you are close with?”

“No, unfortunately. I mean, I would consider my cousin Maria and I friends. But she has always been much more interested in being around Jason,” Isabella said continuing to look at Cassandra.

“Oh, is that so?” Cassandra raised an eyebrow. “Kissing cousins perhaps?”

“Wouldn’t that be something,” Isabella laughed while not giving a proper response. “They always did share an affinity for politics.”

Nathan yawned in response to that. “Politics, ugh...I am more concerned about what is right, then what is popular.”

“So am I, love,” Isabella smiled to him. “That is just what they ‘bond’ over I suppose.”

“Let them have their fun bonding then, eh?” he shrugged. “Do you want to hold baby a bit?” Nathan asked Isabella.

Isabella reached out to grab Leo. “Come to mommy,” she said as she embraced her son. “What about you two? How did your friendship form?”

“...It started over toy dinosaurs,” Cassandra said with a smile. “And books and toys, and pretend games. My parents would just let me stay with Nathan and his parents for days at a time and play.”

“That sounds lovely,” Isabella smiled back. “A very fun and spontaneous friendship.”

“Yes, and the nice thing is that it never really went away,” Nathan nodded with a grin. “That’s how you know it is good.”

Isabella looked at the two of them before speaking. “Well, that is good. Always difficult holding onto life-long friends.”

“Who are your lifelong friends?” Cassandra probed, admiring the baby.

“Alexandra...Alexandra Sulpicia. We met in university, roommates actually,” Isabella replied with a chuckle. “I’m sure they only put us together because her father is a prominent Governor and it made sense to put us in the same room. But we quickly became close friends. She is probably one of the few people I trust,” she continued. “But it might not have been wise to set her up with my brother,” she let slip. It may not have been wise to share that, she thought.

“Oh, is that so?” Cassandra’s interest was piqued. “Why didn’t that work out?”

“She just became a Senator when I introduced them. And well, they still...umm, get along, but it wasn’t easy for the two of them. You know how the media can be, especially if an Emperor and an otherwise unimportant Senator are seen together rather often,” Isabella told her as honestly as she could. Don’t mention the child she ‘adopted,’ she thought.

“...This is rich,” Nathan thought. “He was going to blast you for what you were doing, while he was doing that.” It was all he could do not to laugh. “Well, two can play that game, right?”

“Don’t, please. It’s really not worth it,” Isabella pleaded. “It...it some time after his first wife died.” She paused for a second, “Even after how horrible he’s been lately, it’s just not worth it, Nathan.”

“Suit yourself, but he better not mouth off to me in Castellum,” Nathan said with his arms crossed. “I won’t have it. I didn’t appreciate how he behaved when he was here, but fortunately he changed his tune really quick.”

“...Look at him acting all tough...isn’t it cute?” Cassandra giggled.

“Simply adorable, Cassandra,” Isabella shared in her giggles. “But really, he’ll turn around eventually.”

“Well, what do your other siblings think?” The Gentry Princess wondered.

“Of me being in Ghant?” Isabella asked. “They have been mostly supportive. Isadora and Eirene love children, so they love having another nephew,” she continued with a smile. “John, well he tends to side with Isadora. You know how twins can be. And Theodosius, he told me that he was happy I was happy, but he tends to kiss Jason’s ass more often than not.”

“And what about your sister-in-law?” Nathan wondered. “Should be interesting meeting her.”

“She has been pretty hush on the topic,” Isabella told him as Leo smiled and reached for the water. “She said Leo was a very beautiful baby and that was it. But you know how I feel about her.”

“I don’t,” Cassandra said softly. “Care to share?”

“I mean...she’s nice enough. I just find her rather boring and dull so far,” Isabella explained. “She just...comes off as very fake to me is all.”

“Like she is shallow and pretending?” Cassandra probed. “Who do you suppose she really is then, beneath the thin veneer of fakeness?”

“Pretty much. It just seems like she puts on an act whenever I speak with her,” Isabella told her. “I really don’t have a clue. For all I know I’m wrong,” she finished.

“Could just be her way of adhering to expectations and protocol,” the other woman responded. “She certainly wouldn’t be the first.”

“Nor the last,” Nathan agreed. “People always have to contort themselves when in positions of power and influence. Appearance is everything.”

“You’re probably right,” Isabella agreed. “I guess I just don’t understand the need to act like that in a private setting between family.” Finally feeling comfortable she removed her cover up revealing her in a two piece bikini, then slide into the pool so Leo could be in the water again.

“You seem to be recovering from the trials of pregnancy fairly well,” Cassandra commented as she observed Isabella as she entered the water.

“Oh thank you,” Isabella smiled back. She was unsure if Cassandra was being honest with her, as she had been and still was very self conscious of her post-pregnancy figure.

“She looks great, I agree,” Nathan said with a smile as he disappeared underneath the water, swimming down to the deeper end.

“Is there any special man in your life?” Isabella asked Cassandra as she watched Nathan swim away.

“...Nope,” she answered with a shrug. “I just kind of do what I please. Some have come and gone, but none have ever stuck around. Or rather, I never stuck around.”

“Well there is always a big appeal to simply having the freedom to do whatever...or whomever you like,” Isabella stated with a small laugh.

Laughing along with that, Cassandra said, “I certainly agree with that. You were like that once, were you not? And then you got sucked in under his spell. I was never able to figure it out, but he certainly has a way with women. They either love him or hate him.”

“I was,” Isabella told her. “It wasn’t until I arrived in Ghish that the prospect of having my own family seemed appealing in any way.” She looked down the pool to catch a glimpse of Nathan before turning back to Cassandra with a smile, “You’ve got that right. He certainly does have a way…”

“What was about it about Ghish that made you want to have a family?” Cassandra probed, curiously.

“Him,” Isabella candidly said. “It was...uh so easy. I know it’s cliche, but there was just something about him and how he acted, how he was around me. You know?”

“I do,” she nodded softly. That was when Nathan swam back and around and brushed up against Isabella’s leg, wondering if could surprise her, mischievous as he was.

Isabella laughed, “That and he’s always surprising me.” Leo reached his arms out when he saw Nathan swim by and splashed the water.

Nathan lurched forward and planted a kiss on Isabella’s lips. “Leave him in the water too long and he will turn into a raisin,” he said of Leo with a laugh.

“Fair point,” Isabella said looking at Leo. “Maybe daddy could see to it you don’t turn into a raisin and give your mother a break?” she continued speaking to Leo.

“Yeah, give him here, I will get him dry,” Nathan offered as he stretched out his arms.

Isabella handed Leo over to Nathan. “Thank you, sweetheart,” she smiled to him. Then she submerged in the water quickly before rising again showing off her figure.

The Emperor took the baby out of the water over to a cushioned seat where he could dry him off. Meanwhile, Cassandra said, “Do you want to have more? And if so how many?”

“I’m not really sure,” Isabella honestly told her. “I don’t think I’d want more than two children though. What about you?” she asked in response. “Ever think you’d consider having a child?”

“Perhaps eventually, once the circumstances encourage it,” the Gentry Princess responded firmly. “Still plenty of time to get that figured out.”

“Of course. You’re still young and very beautiful,” Isabella smiled to her. “I certainly didn’t rush into it.”

Nathan took a seat in the chair and rested the baby in his arms with a towel between them. Then he took to stroking the baby’s face and scalp. “She has had her fair share of suitors...she just turns them all down.”

“I wasn’t any different,” Isabella smiled. “What’s the point in settling for something less than what you want? Nothing at all wrong with that.”

“I heard about it from my father, as I am sure you have from various male authority figures in your life,” Cassandra chuckled. “Not that I ever gave a damn about what they thought.”

“Exactly,” Isabella agreed with a smile. “Most of my siblings relationships were ‘constructed,’ that was something I didn’t have any desire for. Besides, everything ended up working out almost better than I ever imagined.”

“Constructed you say?” Cassandra asked with a raised eyebrow. “As in...sort of set up and encouraged?”

“I wouldn’t go as far to say that they are in arranged marriages or relationships. But it was planned that they would both be at said event,” Isabella told her. “And of course, my dear brother would encourage them slightly,” she laughed.

“...Who did he encourage you towards?” Cassandra asked with a bright look.

“A son from one of our family friends, the Verruscosi. I doubt anyone outside of Levantia has heard of them,” Isabella spoke. “And as soon as I saw what they were trying, I...well I wasn’t having any of it.”

“What was he like?” Nathan wondered now. “He could have been the one…” he trailed off with laughter.

“Very handsome,” Isabella began. “But an ass. We were in primary school together. He was the biggest bully there was.”

“And you never kicked him in the balls?” Cassandra inquired. “I did that to a bully one time. That made him stop.”

Isabella laughed, “He was never stupid enough to bully me. To afraid of my father and grandfather.” She moved around slowly in the water, “No, he just picked on the weak ones.”

“Well, you should have kicked him in the balls for preying upon the weak,” Nathan laughed. “If only to teach him a lesson. Isn’t that right Leo?” he posed the last question to the baby cuddled in the open towel.

Leo just sat there smiling and giggling. “I was always more of a lover than a fighter, darling,” Isabella snapped back to him.

“Well, the water was nice,” he said as he fawned over the baby. “But now what do you want to do?”

“Hmm, I don’t really have a preference,” Isabella said before disappearing under the water for the last time. “Something else relaxing,” she finished when she reappeared. “Any ideas, Cassandra?”

“...I was thinking about going back to my chambers and watching a movie or something,” she answered politely.

“And I was thinking about playing with the baby in my chambers and watching TV,” Nathan said in turn.

“Why don’t we go watch a movie together then?” Isabella suggested.

“Sure, that sounds nice,” Nathan nodded, turning to Cassandra, who was rising from the pool. “What do you think Cassie?”

“That sounds fine to me,” she agreed. “Might as well be your chambers then.”

Isabella climbed out of the water and grabbed her towel. “I’ll meet you there then. This little one needs to be cleaned and I need to change,” she told them.

“By all means, take your time,” Nathan said with a smile as he stood up. “Would you like to take him with you to your chambers then?”

“Please,” Isabella nodded as she picked up Leo. “See you soon,” she said to Nathan, giving him a kiss.

“See you soon,” Nathan said, kissing her back. Then he turned to Cassandra. “So, should we head back to my chambers then?”

“Let’s,” she replied with a smirk as she gathered up her bag. “After you, of course.”

“...It would be my pleasure,” he returned the look as he got up, and proceeded to walk with her out of the expansive underground pool room.

Isabella continued on with Leo to her quarters, placing him in his cradle when she entered the room. She quickly changed him and cleaned him up. Then she changed herself and found some clean clothes before she would make her way to Nathan’s chambers.

In Nathan’s chambers, the door was open and the guards knew Isabella was coming, so they offered her no resistance when she arrived. Inside the expansive private apartments of the Emperor, Cassandra was taking a bath, while Nathan was taking a shower, each in a different bathroom (of which there were only two).

The Latin Princess entered the room and heard the shower running. She sat down on one of the couches and patiently waited. Pulling out her phone she sent a text to her mother. Nathan and I are planning to visit the family soon. Hope you’re excited to meet your grandson! it read.

Nathan was the first to emerge, which he did in a blue robe-like tunic. Cassandra not long thereafter, in a casual blue gown. Both of them took a seat on the same couch, with Nathan finding himself sitting between the two of them.

Isabella watched Nathan exit the bathroom and waited for him to sit. “What are we watching then?” she asked aloud.

“A historical drama called Sunset on Ghish, probably one of the best Ghantish movies ever made,” he beamed. “It is about the Ghantish Civil War, and spans the whole thing. The portrayals of the the characters are fairly accurate, and the movie presents them and the events in a fairly objective fashion.”

“Yes, it is one of my favorites,” Cassandra said. “There are a few really sad parts...I cried when the Crown Prince…”

“Sshh, no spoilers,” Nathan said with a finger pressed to his lips as the room became dark and the movie began to play on the eighty inch LED sitting on the wall.

“Dies? Does he die? Wait, nevermind don’t tell me,” Isabella spoke with an ever softening voice. She reached for a blanket and covered herself as the movie began.

Cassandra did the same thing, and leaned up against Nathan as she did so. Nathan, for his part, put an arm around Isabella, as the movie began to play...

by **Lacus Magni** » Mon Jan 11, 2016 1:03 pm

Palace of Augustus
Castellum ab Alba, Latium
June 2016

“God, it’s fucking bright out here,” Jason Augustus said standing out on the terrace looking out towards the Palace gardens.

Alexandra rolled her eyes, “Well, you’re the one who wanted to hold this meeting outside...” Alexandra Sulpicia

“Dominus,” a servant said to the Emperor, “The Consul has arrived.”

“He’s late,” Jason complained to Alexandra. “Show him in.”

Consul Alexander Pompilius had taken office not even four months ago. And he was everything his predecessor wasn’t. Pompilius was cold, calm, cunning, pragmatic and had even been called evil by his opponents. He had climbed back to the top of the Senatorial hierarchy after it had seemed his political career was going to be over. And he had his relationship with the Emperor to thank for that, as did Alexandra.

“Caesar,” Pompilius smiled to the Empreror, shaking his hand. Then turning to Alexandra, “Minister Sulpicia, I wasn’t aware you would be here.”

“You’re late, Alex,” Jason snapped. “I asked Alexandra to join me here since it seemed that you wouldn’t be arriving.”

“My apologies, sir,” Pompilius said.

“It’s no matter, Alexandra was briefed instead. Gaius Pacatianus has been killed,” Jason plainly said.

“Well…that is wonderful news, sir. This will be the end of the Latin First then. How did he go, was it a prison riot?” Pompilius asked him.

Jason Augustus grinned, “Killed in the showers they tell me.”

“Justice is justice,” Alexandra said nodding her head to the Emperor.

Pompilius nodded in agreeance and asked, “Anything else? That couldn’t have been everything?”

“I’m afraid you missed all the big things, Alex,” Jason told him. “Maybe be a bit more prompt next time, eh?”

Pompilius sat down on a seat next to Sulpicia and let out a sigh.

“When is you sister arriving, Jason? I haven’t seen her in so long,” she asked the Emperor.

Jason Augustus pushed his sleeve and looked at his watch, “She’s probably landing…any minute.”

“Shouldn’t you be at the airport to receive her?” she questioned.

“Sophie’s handling it,” Jason told her.

He turned to Pompilius, “Your wife will be joining us at dinner, correct?”

“Of course. She’s been looking forward to it all week,” Pompilius stated.

Meanwhile at the airport

Sophie sat in the limousine with her mother-in-law, Marie, waiting for the Ghantish party to arrive. It was a typical early summer day in the capital. A bright sun shined down through little cloud cover, the temperature sitting at a comfortable mid-70s.

“Are you excited to see Isabella, Your Grace?” Sophie asked her mother-in-law.

“Very,” she smiled back. “And to see my newest grandchild. He looks just like Jason!” she exclaimed.

“God, I hope it isn’t going to be hot as hell down here,” Nathan said with a yawn as his private jet made its descent. “I don’t have the skin tone for it. Good thing I brought some SPF 120 lotion, I am sure that might come in handy.” Nathan, as usual for this time of year, was wearing a silken tunic that was light and breezy. He had been drinking as well, and mixing the alcohol with some pills to help ease his anxiety. His inebriated, drunken state was certainly showing. “The worst part about it is sticky balls...be thankful that isn’t something you have to go through,” he mused to Isabella, while holding a bottle of liquor in his hand.

“Oh, I’m ever so thankful,” Isabella joked. “I told you the weather report was predicting 70s, darling,” she smiled back to him as little Leo sat on her lap.

“Are you excited to see your grandmother and aunts and uncles, little one,?” she said in a baby voice to her son, him smiling back having no idea what she asked.

“The 70s, right...but there is also humidity, and direct exposure to the sun’s harmful rays...and shit like that,” Nathan slurred as the plane touched the runway. He fumbled around his shirt, and found the pocket with his sunglasses. “There we go,” he said before chugging the rest of the bottle.

Isabella laughed at Nathan and spoke sarcastically, “Very attractive. Will you be bringing that bottle along?”

“...No, I don’t need it anymore. Just enough to make things easier on myself...less stressful,” he explained as the plane touched down. “You lead, I will follow.”

“It won’t be that bad,” she said. “Once they get to know you, they’ll love you as much as I do.”

Sophie looked out and saw the plane touch down. “Looks like they’re here,” she said as a guard opened the door of the limo.

When the plane came to a complete stop, there was a beep, and then the door was opened and the ramp extended downward. Some of Nathan’s security units exited first, while Nathan stayed back, surrounded by a few of his Zinpalak guards. Nathan did, however, get up and crack his knuckles, as well as sip on a bottle of water. “Here we go.”

Isabella looked out the window before exiting with Nathan and Leo. “And Jason isn’t even here. He sent his wife...thank you brother,” she said sarcastically.

Standing on the tarmac, Sophie awaited the Ghantish party, while Marie stood beside her, anxious to see her daughter and grandson. Sophie stood at 5’5’’, with a petite frame, draped in a faint yellow summer dress, and long brown hair that differed from her deep blue eyes.

Nathan emerged from the plane after Isabella and Leo, content to hide behind his sunglasses. His white silk tunic flapped a bit as he walked outside, and he grinned at the sight of those receiving him. He did, however, turn and address his herald. “Do not announce me until we have arrived at the Palace,” to which the herald nodded in understanding.

“Your Majesty,” Sophie said extending her hand to Nathan with a smile. “I’m Empress Sophie Augusta, welcome to Castellum ab Alba.” she continued while Marie embraced her daughter and grandson.

Nathan, once on the tarmac and before the Empress, bowed courteously and took her hand for a shake. Then he brought it to his mouth, and gently kissed the back of it. “Thank you for the welcome, your Majesty. I can hardly tell if it is the sun, or you, that gives this day such a radiance.” Isabella ought to know by now that this is just me being polite, he thought.

“You are far too kind, Your Majesty. But I thank you,” Sophie said to Nathan.

“What a beautiful little boy,” the Dowager Empress said about Leo. “And how is my daughter doing? I hope Ghish has been treating you well,” she finished.

“Wonderful, mother!” Isabella smiled ear to ear. “Ghish is lovely, and so are the people,” she continued looking to Nathan. “But I’m pleased to be home for a visit.”

“And I am pleased to be here as well,” Nathan said as he embraced Marie. “I hope you have a grandson that you can be proud of, your Highness. He certainly is a strong and well behaved baby.”

“Oh, I’m very proud of him, Your Majesty,” Marie replied to Nathan. “He’s as handsome as his father and grandfather. The perfect mix.”

“You are so kind to say,” Nathan replied with a smile. “A future ladykiller no doubt.”

A Praetorian guardsman walked around and opened the door to the limousine. “Shall we,” she motioned into the vehicle. “Our next stop it the Palatine Hill.”

“Of course, after you, ladies,” Nathan smiled and gestured as he contented himself to let them get in first, followed by him and his closest guards. This ought to be interesting.

Sophie entered the car first, with Marie following behind and sitting next to the Empress. Isabella entered next with Leo, who slapped his hands against the window of the limo. “Someone is anxious,” Isabella laughed.

“Maybe he is excited to meet his cousin, Alexander,” Sophie smiled to the young Ghantish Prince. She looked at Nathan, “Thankfully, it isn’t a long drive to the Palace grounds, Your Majesty. I know that wasn’t the shortest of flights.”

“No, it wasn’t, but it was worth it, your Highness...or should I call you Sophie?” he asked as he nestled into his seat, next to Isabella. “I am not usually one for formalities...I find that they can be stifling.”

“Sophie is quite alright,” she smiled back to Nathan. “I find that they are good with introductions and the like, but I know Jason prefers them in most situations. Isn’t that right, Isabella?”

“Hmm? Oh, Jason is a very particular man,” Isabella said plainly to her.

“...I am sure he won’t mind me calling him Jason, Nathan said with a sly smile. “After all, we are family now, so no need for such formalities between us.”

Isabella bit her tongue and held Nathan’s hand, while Sophie nodded to what Nathan said. Moments later, the Palace became visible atop the Palatine and the limo rolled past the open gates. The limo halted and the door opened, with Marie exiting followed by Sophie. Still, Jason Augustus was not present to greet the Ghantish Emperor and Princess Isabella, but the heralder was.

As all but the Ghantish visitors were standing outside of the limo, the heralder yelled, “May I present Nathan of House Gentry, Fourth of his Name, Emperor of Ghant, King of the Ghantar, Lord of Ghish and Protector of the Realm, Isabella, Princess of Lusitania, Duchess of Eboracum, Lady of Carsulæ and Leo, Prince of Ghant.”

Upon getting out of the limo, Nathan looked on in amusement at the greeting. “...I didn’t know you had so many fancy titles,” Nathan said playfully to Isabella, before turning to the herald. “Thank you, sir.”

“Just the Latin way,” Isabella joked back to Nathan.

“This way, Nathan,” Sophie said to him and the entire party, leading them into large Palace as the guards opened the heavy main doors.

“Wait for it,” Isabella whispered to Nathan. “Any second she will start talking about how ancient the things in the city are.”

“..Duly noted.” As they entered the Palace, Nathan began to soak in the surroundings with his eyes, appreciating the fineries of the Latin court.

Sophie Augusta led them down the main hall, it was lined with numerous paintings and busts of ancient rulers that most have probably not even heard of before. And just as predicted, she began to talk about the history of the building. “The main structure of the Palace complex is fairly new compared to other buildings in the capitol. It was constructed in the 18th Century as an alternate residence of the heir apparent,” Sophie spoke.

Marie chimed in, “But most of the rest of the Palace is much newer than even that. Don’t let the tapestries and ancient statues fool you.”

“What did I say,” Isabella giggled to her husband.

“And right down this hallway,” Sophie said. “Jason had a meeting run a little late. They should be done by now.” She lead them to the terrace where Jason was sitting with Consul Pompilius and Minister of State Sulpicia, as they were just finishing a conversation.

Opening the glass door, they were on the terrace. “Your Majesty,” Sophie said to Nathan, “I’d like to introduce you to Consul Alexander Pompilius and Minister of State Alexandra Sulpicia, and of course my husband whom you already know.” Jason remained seated, while Pompilius and Sulpicia stood to greet Nathan.

Nathan stayed quiet and listened as he learned about the palace, before finally responding to Sophie at the end. “That would explain why Jason was unable to greet us personally...I know how those meetings can go, and how unpredictable they can be in terms of length.” On the other side of the glass door, Nathan bowed courteously to the Consul, and he beamed at the sight of Minister Alexandra. “A pleasure to meet you both,” Nathan said as he took the Minister’s hand. “Minister Alexandra, dare I say that Castellum is made more radiant by your presence,” he told her as he kissed the back of her hand. “It would seem as though at least one Emperor is enchanted by your radiance…”

The Consul nodded, “Likewise,” after Nathan’s introduction.

Between him and the Latin Emperor stood Alexandra Sulpicia, who was of slightly similar proportions to Empress Sophie and regarded as the Beauty of the Senate by many. “Charmed,” she smiled at what she considered an over-the-top introduction by Nathan. “You married quite the talker, Bella,” she quipped looking past Nathan to Isabella who simply chuckled.

Jason Augustus rolled his eyes at Nathan’s sweet talking. “Well, I do believe that will be all for now,” he said to Pompilius and Sulpicia as he rose from his seat. Standing between the two senators, he walked forward with them towards Nathan and the others, placing his hand on Sulpicia’s lower back while guiding them. “I’ll see the two of you at dinner tonight,” he finished as they walked away.

Nathan watched carefully as they made their way, taking note of the hand on Sulpicia’s lower back, an observation that made Nathan grin. Well, I guess that answers that, he thought.

Alexandra gave Isabella a hug before she left the terrace. “It’s nice to see you again. We’ll have to catch up at dinner,” she said bopping her finger on Leo’s nose.

“Nice to see you again,” Jason said to Nathan politely, now standing in front of him. “Apologies that my little meeting ran late.”

The Emperor of Ghant inclined his head. “Oh, no worries, I know how late meetings can run. Especially when the company is pleasant…” he said, holding back a subtle, wry smirk.

Jason Augustus watched Minister Sulpicia exit from the corner of his eye, picking up what Nathan was hinting at. “Indeed. Well, I know Sophie is just as good as I when it comes to greeting our guests. Though perhaps a little better,” he told him.

“...Your sister is pretty good at greeting guests too,” Nathan said, playing off of Jason’s innuendo. “Must be a Latin thing, eh?”

“One of our many gifts,” the Latin Emperor replied as if his patience was already being tested. “Please have a seat everyone,” he went on as he sat back down, his wife sitting beside him. “Can I have someone bring you anything?” he asked Nathan and Isabella.

“No thank you brother,” Isabella replied as she sat on a couch opposite him.

Nathan proceeded to occupy the couch Isabella was sitting on. “Do you have sweet tea with no ice?” he asked benignly as he put a hand around Isabella’s back, one leg folded atop the other.

“Sure thing,” Jason said motioning to a bystanding servant. “And I assume this is my nephew?” he asked placing his hand on his wife’s leg. “What’s the boy’s name?”

“Mother has told you his name, Jason,” Isabella said rather angrily.

“It’s Leo, sweetheart,” Sophie said to Jason. “After your grandfather.”

“Wasn’t that thoughtful of us?” Nathan asked, somewhat rhetorically and with a smile. “And look how much he resembles you, Jason. Handsome, healthy and strong.”

“Very,” Jason shortly replied.

“Oh, he does, doesn’t he Jason,” Sophie smiled. “A very handsome nephew.”

“Good thing for those strong Latin genes,” Jason grinned, causing his wife to elbow him slightly.

“The genes are strong, that’s for sure,” Nathan nodded. “I was also wondering if you and Sophie would like to serve as his Godparents.”

Jason bit his lip while his wife was quick to respond. “We’d absolutely be honored,” she said gleefully. “Has he been christened yet?”

Nathan smiled in gratitude. “Thank you, that means a great deal to us. He was baptised in Ghish.”

“Lovely,” the Latin Emperor stated. “Well all that we have planned for today is the state dinner. Till then, we are free to explore. Anything the two of you would like to do?” Jason asked.

“I’m sure Nathan would love to see all the monuments,” Isabella said with a hint of sarcasm, causing Jason to raise an eye at her.

“Naturally I would,” the Emperor of Ghant agreed. “History is my first and foremost area of interest and study. I would savor the opportunity to see all that there is to see, if I may. Compare notes too of course.”

“Jason studied history at the Academy,” Sophie chimed in hoping to give the two something to become more friendly over.

“Indeed,” Jason stated. “Well, as far as Latin cities go, there are some very historic areas in Castellum. The Forum would be a great start, don’t you think sister?” he asked Isabella. “One of the few areas that wasn’t decimated during the Social War.”

“As good as any,” she told her brother.

“That sounds marvelous, I can’t wait to see it!” Nathan beamed. “Out of curiosity, who is your favorite Latin historical figure? Mine would probably be...Emperor Felix II.”

“Let’s be off then,” Sophie told the group

“Ah, Felix II was extremely interesting and played a significant role in the formation of the state,” Jason replied. “But my favorite would have to be Theophylactus I Augustus. That man...well simply put was a genius,” he went on as he walked into the Palace to find their way to the cars.

“And even more, he came from nothing. A commoner born on an insignificant island to a mother that history doesn’t even have the name of,” Jason told Nathan.

“And then there was George IV, who was only named Emperor on the condition that Theophylactus be named his heir,” Nathan responded with a smile after he got up off the couch and proceeded to follow Jason. “Theophylactus’s contemporary in Ghant was the first Emperor, Nathan I. Half of his reign was good, the other half bad, but most of it in Civil War.”

“You know your Latin history,” Jason let out a small smile as they approached the Palace doors. “That was the only noteworthy accomplishment of George’s reign,” he laughed while guards opened the limo door for the party. “Theophylactus chief accolade is democracy, though he waiting until he was just about on his deathbed.”

“Funny thing is, Theoplylactus was on the throne from 1809 to 1859, and Nathan I from 1797 to 1858. It is reported that on his deathbed, Nathan said, ‘Damn it, Theo outlasted me,’ Among other things, of course. His last words were reportedly, ‘Too long,’ for he was quite old, and sat the throne longer than any other man.” Nathan enjoyed the historical banter.

Isabella smiled at Nathan and her brother at least appearing to get along as she entered the limo, followed by Sophie.

“I didn’t know that. I wonder how it would have been if they met?” Jason laughed. “After you,” he said offering Nathan to enter the limo before him.

“Well, it is worth noting that his mother was Roman, and so was his first wife, so he was always quite fond of all things Latin. His second wife...she was from Thule. Thular and anything Latin are like oil and water. Relations with Roman nations between 1820 and the 1860s were pretty bad, to say the least,” Nathan responded. “Much of the War of the Thistles was about that, Roman politics playing out in Ghant. Took fifty years for it to conclude, with Prince Leo of Ghant playing some role in the final years of it.”

“Ah, well I know how those damn Romans can be,” Jason joked with Nathan, referencing his wife being from Rome. “This one right here is alright,” he continued giving her a light kiss on the cheek. “Interesting though, considering we have new Prince Leo of Ghant with us now,” he mentioned.

“If I might ask, how well versed are you on Ghantish history?” Nathan probed. “Do you have a favorite Ghantish historical figure?” he also exchanged a glance with Isabella, wondering if she had one as well.

“I’m afraid not very. I’ve read some on the ‘Mad Emperor.’ Which was fascinating for different reasons,” Jason began. “But from what I’ve read King Robert I interests me most. And he created that wild looking Throne, didn’t he?” he said.

“I’ve seen photos of it,” Sophie spoke up. “I can’t imagine that would be comfortable at all.”

“Robert was a hard man, who lived a hard life, for the most part fair, but also wicked. He did forge that throne, in the fires of Mt. Arragard, believing that it would inspire awe, loyalty and fear in those who beheld it. He had his enemies haul it all the way back to Ghish. He said, ‘a king should never sit easy,’ and he ruled with an iron fist. The moment he died, there was a rebellion among the nobility...they waited until after Robert died first though, such was the fear that his reign inspired,” Nathan told the story with a glimmer in his eye. “That’s always the debate though, to rule by inspiring love or fear.”

“Nothing wrong with a little of both,” Jason joked. “Seems his iron fist made things difficult for his children though,” he continued as the limousine began to drive.

“Which of those do you most rule like?” Sophie asked Nathan innocently.

“...If I had to be completely honest, I would venture to say King John II. Came into the throne at a young age, and was a well meaning man, even if a great amount of the time he wasn’t sure what the right thing was, but he would try anyway.” Nathan was going to leave the rest out, and let the others figure some of the other aspects of that King out for themselves.

“Sounds like you, dear,” Isabella smiled placing her hand on Nathan’s leg.

“Many honorable men meant well, and plenty of them were casualties to history,” Jason stated.

“Don’t be cruel,” Sophie said to her husband.

Jason cleared his throat. “What is meant is that people often take advantage of those who mean well. Good intentions don’t mean much when it comes to dealing with people who wear masks constantly.”

“I certainly can’t disagree with that assessment,” Nathan nodded. “King John II was easily influenced by the nobility, but some would argue that the realm was better for it. Learning where to strike a balance between allowing yourself to be influenced, and being the one doing the influencing, is crucial to the reign of any King.”

“Sure,” Jason said shortly. “It is important to surround yourself with those of varying opinions.”

“Well...looks like we are here,” Isabella said just as the limo arrived at their destination.

The Forum was the ancient center of city, and contained the largest concentration of historical sites. Jason and Sophie exited the limo first, gazing upon the oldest church in Sorrentia, the Prima Magna Basilica. It was tall, around three stories, with large columns in its front, like a typical Latin building of that time.

“...This must be the Prima Magna Basilica,” Nathan said excitedly as he climbed out of the limo. “Much larger in person, it would seem.”

“That it is,” Isabella said. “This is where we were baptised and Jason was coronated.”

“It was originally constructed as a Senate building in the 2nd Century and converted into a church during the reign of Constantinus I,” Jason told Nathan. He opened the double doors of the church so the group could enter. Damn building would be better off as a government building or a pile of rubble, he thought.

Inside was a large marble altar at the far end of the church, rows of pews leading to it. On the walls were ancient mosaics and stain-glass windows of varying religious figures, including the Emperor Maximus. “Beautiful as always,” Sophie stated.

“Spectacular. Truly a venue fit for a coronation,” Nathan beamed after he stepped inside and had a chance to look around. “And very true to Latin architecture it would seem as well.”

“I would have prefered to do it at the Palace,” Jason said. This was actually the first time he had stepped inside church walls for a non-State duty since the death of his father. “Though, the history has always been interesting,” he said looking at a mosaic of Maximus, while Sophie and Isabella were off to the opposite side of the structure.

“My history is a bit off...but why did Emperor Constantinus convert this into a church from a senate building?” Nathan wondered.

“Sources differ, but the prevailing notion is he said that Senators didn’t deserve a building this nice. ‘Only the Lord does,” Jason told Nathan. “So he marched his army into the building and removed all the Senators and bam, a church,” he laughed, now oversimplifying the situation. “But I can’t imagine you want to be looking at the interior of churches all day,” he said to Nathan, brushing some dust from the mosaic.

“Not really...I don’t go to Church often. In fact, this is only the second time I have been inside one since I got married, which was...February of 2013. First time a woman was wed, coronated and ascended on the same day, which was her birthday, the 14th. Some birthday gift, eh?” Nathan chuckled. “That was the last time before Leo’s baptism.”

“Lucky her,” Jason replied, again reminded of his sister’s secondary position in the Ghantish court. “Truthfully, this is maybe the second time I’ve been here since 2012. My son’s christening and now,” he said softly. “There’s plenty more to see, any idea what you’d have a taste for?” he asked hoping to cater to Nathan.

“I have always been fascinated by crypts,” Nathan offered with a neutral expression. “Where great Emperors are laid to rest.”

“Plenty of them at the Imperial Crypt,” Jason said somewhat cautiously. “Ladies,” he shouted. “We’re off again.”

Sophie and Isabella walked toward the doors to exit while Jason was speaking with Nathan doing the same. “Bit of a mix in quality at the Crypt,” he told Nathan. “Father, grandfather, other family members. The crazed Valentinian VI a level lower. And even the tomb of the first Emperor, Augustus...well if you believe the legends,” he joked reaching the doors and entering the limo.

“Do you believe the legends?” the Ghantish Emperor probed as he walked beside Jason. “While Valentinian VI was crazed, isn’t it the crazy ones that end up the most memorable?”

“Not really,” Jason stated. “Most seem like stories to comfort or frighten little children or create something for a group of people to rally around,” he continued. “The crazy have always appealed more to me, far more interesting.”

“You two seem to be getting along,” Isabella whispered to Nathan when Sophie took Jason’s attention.

Nathan winked slightly at Isabella, before continuing. “Same here, the quirky ones appeal to me more as well, for the same reason. Like, for instance, King Edward XV, who got leprosy from providing charity to the poor, donned a mask once it spread to his face, and then departed Ghant to sail until the end of the earth, leaving his Luxew Queen and their young son as acting King. He and his ship never returned.”

“See,” Jason said to his wife in jest. “That is why I tell you stop with all the charity.”

Sophie rolled her eyes and looked out the window. “Looks like we’re here.” The Imperial Crypt was a rather plain looking structure by its outward appearance. The building was open to the public on specific occasions, but was empty today for its Imperial visitors.

“Oh, you reserved the Imperial Crypt just for me?” Nathan asked, feigning flattery. “How did you know I would want to see it?”

“Luck,” Jason laughed.

“It’s only open select days throughout the year to the public, Nathan,” Sophie told him, causing Jason to throw a look her way. A Praetorian opened the heavy door to allow them to enter.

“After you,” Jason told Nathan and his sister. The main level of the Crypt looked almost like a typical museum, with various banners draped on the wall. Signs pointed to where certain groups or individuals were buried, with descending staircase blocked off with velvet ropes.

“...Would I be correct to assume that there are different sections for each of the ruling dynasties?” Nathan asked he entered and looked around.

“Almost, love,” Isabella told him as she wrapped her arms around his.

“This is one of many Crypts,” Jason told Nathan. “Down this staircase to the left, are mostly Ancia Emperors, my grandmother and I believe a handful of Greek Emperors. If you keep going down you’ll see the more ancient Caesars,” he carried on walking towards the most prominent marked off staircase. “And here...here are most of the Claudii and umm other close relatives.”

“That is where Stephanie is buried,” Isabella whispered softly into Nathan’s ear.

“Oh.” Nathan decided that he wasn’t going to touch that with a ten foot pole. “Is Augustus down there?” he asked, changing the subject.

“Would you like to see him?” Jason nodded in the affirmative.

“...Absolutely!” Nathan exclaimed. “What about the myths?”

Jason removed the rope barrier so the group could go down. “I think I’ll sit this one out,” Isabella told her brother.

“I will as well, Jason,” Sophie said rather sheepishly.

The Latin Emperor nodded to them and walked down. “In his time he claimed to be the son of a god. Which is humorous because our line claims to be descended from him,” Jason laughed pushing open the door, revealing the first grouping of tombs, which would be ignored. “But most of the myths and legends surrounding him aren’t as wild and out there as they are with others.”

“Oh yeah?” the Emperor of Ghant sniggered as he followed along. “Maybe you could share some.”

“As I said, it started claiming to be the son of a god, but then it morphed into a living god situation, which seems to have gone right to the head of a few,” Jason began as the two Emperors walked past the room which contained Stephanie Augusta’s tomb and then down another staircase. “Augustus’ grandson, Gaius, history calls him Augustulus now, proclaimed himself to be the chief deity of the ancient religion, ahead of the thunder-god even. He fought in the arena on numerous occasions, was said to have fucked every Senator’s wife and their daughters...even a few Senator’s too I believe,” he went on.

“Just another flight of stairs I think,” Jason told him as he and Nathan were down three levels now. “Some of the others married whores straight out of brothels. One...one wiped out the entire treasury to fight sea lions up near Hibernia. Arcadius I think,” he finished. “Every nation has their own crazies,” he laughed.

“...Wasn’t there an Emperor that had his own wife murdered because he was paranoid of traitors in his court?” Nathan asked with a raised eyebrow. “She insisted her innocence right up until the end, but he still didn’t believe her. Ironically, the lesson of that story was that the only traitor was him, for having betrayed his wife.”

“Sounds like that may have been Germanicus, Augustus’ great-nephew. With so many holders of the Purple, legitimate or otherwise, I’m afraid I don’t have all the stories committed to memory yet,” Jason replied with a laugh as they finally arrived at the tomb of Augustus. “Here he is. The son of a god and my finest ancestor,” he finished, gazing at the stone tomb. The lighting was poor in this deep area of the crypt, one of the few lights above a more modern looking name and information plate on the tomb.

“...So it would appear as though my son descends from Gods on both sides of the family,” Nathan mused as he admired the tomb of Augustus. “It’s only a matter of time before Hermes comes with his chariot to give him some sort of gift to slay some great best in order to acquire some ancient treasure in order to vanquish some powerful foe.”

“Which god is he descended from on the Ghantish line?” Jason inquired.

“Legend has it that the first King of Gauekoizarra was the son of a Star and a jendebasa woman. Esmeralda of Gauekoizarra married King Edward VIII of Ghant in the 13th century CE. Of course, I don’t place a great deal of stock in northern God lineages,” Nathan answered as he still examined the tomb.

“Neither do I,” Jason chuckled. “But hey, who am I to get in the way of an easy way to create legitimacy.”

That gave Nathan pause. “I am assuming you mean legitimacy in the early kings against the countless lords and chieftains that contested their claims?”

“Yes, sorry if I was unclear,” Jason said quickly. “But a good thing it worked for our ancestors and the fools who followed them,” he sniggered.

“Yes...because everybody plays the fool,” Nathan sniggered in turn.

by **Lacus Magni** » Mon Jan 11, 2016 1:06 pm

Palace of Augustus
Castellum ab Alba, Latium
June 2016

After viewing the tomb of Augustus and a few other mighty Latin Emperors, the four Imperials returned to the Palatine Hill, where a large dinner feast was being prepared at the Palace. The dinner would see many important figures in attendance. Along with the two Emperors and their spouses, a number of Senators and their spouses would be in attendance, as well as Prince Theodosius, his wife, Princess Antoinette of Vannois, her grandmother, Teresa of Ghant, and finally the young Princess Eirene of Lusitania.

At the Palace, chefs and servants were bustling to have the feast prepared for the high-ranking guests. Chefs were preparing a variety of typical Latin meats, pork, beef, and venison, which would be served with a number of fruits and vegetables and some of the finest wine produced in Latium.

The dining hall was an extremely large and extravagant room. It featured giant purple banners draped from the four corners of the room, walls dotted with fine paintings, which featured the likes of Leo X Augustus, Felix III Augustus and John VI Augustus, among others in their many exploits. The eastern wall of the hall highlighted the skyline of Castellum and the Angustiae River, as seen from atop the Palatine Hill, through a series of large windows.

Once the hall had been set, the guests began to arrive and fill-out the table, including Consul Alexander Pompilius and his wife Sophia, and Minister of State Alexandra Sulpicia and her husband, Menas Pompeius. Small name plates were left for the open seats that would feature both Emperors and their wives, with Jason Augustus seated at the head of the table, his wife to his immediate left and Nathan to his right.

Nathan took his seat quietly, to Emperor Jason’s right. He was pleased with how the day had went thus far, quite content in thinking that their understandably chilly relationship was improving. He awaited Isabella to sit beside him, and he eyed the meats hungrily. “Oh my, doesn’t this all just look ravishing.” It was a coincidence that he glanced at Alexandra Sulpicia as he finished saying that. Damn it.

Jason Augustus entered the large hall, with his wife and sister beside him, insisting with his hands for his guests to remain seated. Isabella found her seat next to Nathan, while Empress Sophie found her’s next to Jason’s. Before being seated himself, Jason grabbed his glass of wine and held it up.

“I know we are all very hungry, so I’ll make this as short as possible,” Jason Augustus smiled to his guests and family. “First of all, I’d like to thank His Majesty, Emperor Nathan of Ghant and the Princess of Lusitania for making the long voyage from the north. I hope that this will become one of many more visits, in what will be a prosperous relationship between our peoples. I would also like to welcome Princess Teresa of Ghant and my sister-in-law, Princess Antoinette, for making the trek to Castellum as well,” the Latin Emperor continued. “So here is to Latium and Ghant...and maybe Vannois,” he added in with a laugh while looking over to his brother Theodosius and his wife, Antoinette. “Long may we prosper,” he said finishing his toast just before finally sitting down.

“Oh, definitely to Vannois, your Majesty,” Teresa called out as she made her slow approach to the table. She was ninety-six years old now, shriveled and with white hair that fell straight back behind her back. As she inched along the floor on her old legs, her still profound light blue eyes peered out from a fair, withered face. Her gown was extravagant, blue and white with frills, and a bare decolletage that left her shoulders, collarbone and upper back bare, age spots, freckles and all. “Antoinette, dear,” she called out. “Will you see your grandmother to her seat? Next to you of course, so I can observe your beauty up close, and make sure that you are cutting your steak in the appropriate sized bites. As I always used to tell your aunts, there are right ways and wrong ways to handle meat!”

“Of course, grandmother.” Antoinette smiled at her favorite relative, moving beside her. To be fair, an argument could be made that she was everyone’s favorite relative, except for maybe Bénédicte; he was a bit of a prude, if she had anything to say about it. He had been rather displeased at their visit to his home in Drien, where he served as King-Consort to Marie III. She should’ve been used to Teresa’s rather enlightened sense of humor herself, but the both of them were - according to the consensus, at least - sticks in the mud. After their visit to Bénédicte and some of Antoinette’s aunts, she and Teresa had left Vannois for Castellum for this occasion. “We have always appreciated your advice.”

“Let the feast begin,” Jason Augustus said to the group, attempting to keep his laughter from Teresa’s words to a minimum. He and most of the others began to fill their plates with the assorted foods in front of them. While many more would begin talking amongst themselves.

With old, bare arms, Teresa helped herself to some of the softer, easier to chew delicacies at the table, namely some venison, fruits and vegetables, along with some wine for good measure. “Near, dear...hmm…” she had to think for a minute. “How is my great-great nephew and the state of the old lands?”

Nathan smiled, and responded in the old tongue. “Ghant lurrak ondo daude, izeba. Dakmoor begia bere zabalena da.” (The lands of Ghant are well, aunt. The Eye of Dakmoor is at its widest)

Teresa took a deep sip of wine, and patted her granddaughter on the back, before clearing her throat and responding. “Arraroa da kontuan hartu. Nik hamabost urte ditut ikusi nuen etxe bizirik erre. Arrosak ez hazten azkar. Maiatzaren nire aitonak Enperadoreak Ero bederatzi infernu erre.” (Strange to consider. When I was fifteen I watched that house burned alive. The roses do grow back fast. May my grandfather the Mad Emperor burn in nine hells)

“Did you understand a word of that, Bella?” Alexandra Sulpicia softly asked Princess Isabella.

“Maybe three or four words of it,” Isabella laughed in response.

“What good are you living in Ghant if I can’t use you to eavesdrop on a couple royals,” Sulpicia joked with her. “Baby Leo is adorable, by the way. I hope you’re enjoying it up in the north...and that he’s good to you,” she continued saying to her close friend.

“Don’t worry about me, Alexandra,” Isabella giggled. “He’s nothing I can’t handle.”

“I must say, I’m quite embarrassed to admit that I understood little of that.” Antoinette shook her head. “Father did do his best to make us learn, of course, and with your help as well, grandmother. He’d probably make me go and recite the alphabet a few times if he could see me right now.” Glancing at Teresa, she grinned. “Or you may, grandmother. I could see that happening quite easily.”

“Well, my dear,” Teresa said as she cut into her venison, “Legend states the Devil tried to learn Ghantish by listening behind the door of a Ghantish farmhouse. After seven years, he mastered only three words: ``Yes, Ma'am,'' and “harder.” This, say the Ghantar, is a tribute to their women as well as the difficulty of their tongue.”

To that, Nathan grinned and sniggered, nearly bursting out in laughter. ...Seems like she’s still got it, he thought, having to swallow his wine hard to avoid choking on it.

Sophie Augusta looked to her husband with a look of contempt upon her face, but Jason continued to find the elderly Teresa to be rather humerous. “Please don’t encourage her, Jason. This is an important feast,” she whispered to her husband in Greek.

“Just relax, Sophie,” Jason whispered to her in response. “It’s harmless fun.”

Antoinette repressed the urge to grin. She had heard that little proverb since birth, though admittedly only on days when Grandma Teresa could tutor her and Alexandre in Ghantish or really any subject she felt like imparting onto them.

“I suppose so, grandmother.” She didn’t add that she had heard those choice words at her own parent’s door. Who knew her father spoke in Ghantish when… excited?

“About your father,” Teresa continued. “Here is an interesting story,” she began as she looked towards the end of the table where Jason and Nathan were sitting. "Antoinette, my dear, your father was the just the cutest baby that I had ever seen! Oh, but you couldn't tell from how horrid his diapers were. He would soil himself all the way up to his chin! And the worst part is,” she said with wide eyes as she leaned in towards Antoinette, “ I would be changing his diaper, and he would then pee on me!” Turning back to the Emperor’s, she said beaming, “he got that from his father..."

Jason Augustus nearly spit out his wine from laughter at Teresa’s comments, whereas the Consul, Minister Sulpicia and their spouses jaw’s just about dropped. Meanwhile, Prince Theodosius spoke up to attempt to break the mood. “Well...uh, these are good potatoes,” he said before sharing a glance with his wife.

Antoinette, for her part, had covered a surprised laugh with a cough, and quickly brought her wine glass back to her lips. Leave it to Grandmother to mention a story she didn’t know while at a dinner with family and dignitaries obviously not used to her prolific - at least amongst Vannoisians - sense of humor.

“Oh, just wonderful potatoes. Vannois may be good for drinks, but one must… eat..” Resisting the urge to smack herself across the face, she simply smiled and looked to her husband for a moment.

Nathan had to turn to Isabella and bury his face in her shoulder to avoid being seen breaking up and fighting the urge to erupt in laughter. Good God this woman is as hilarious as grandfather used to tell me she was.

“Oh, I do love potatoes, especially mashed, dear Theodosius,” Teresa smiled demurely. "So, tell me my grandson-in-law Theodosius, how do you find my granddaughter? Does she satisfy you? I would certainly hope so, being a strapping young woman of my own line,” she finished with a bright look in her eyes.

Theodosis took a large drink of his wine before answering Teresa. “Well...she is a very special woman. I’m a lucky man,” he responded in diplomatic fashion while Jason continued to laugh at the other end of the table.

“Well, if she is anything like me, you most certainly are,” Teresa commented back to Theodosius, almost playfully.

Theodosius simply nodded in the affirmative to Teresa while Sophie Augusta desperately tried to change the topic. “Nathan, how would you say your first visit to Castellum has gone so far?” she asked the Ghantish Emperor.

Taking this moment to turn to her grandmother, Antoinette leaned over a bit. “Perhaps the story telling can wait until there is less risk of one of our hosts being killed by a lodged piece of potato, grandmother.” Sitting back up as if nothing had happened, the Vannoisian looked on with interest at the Emperor’s answer.

Nathan composed himself, and then responded to Empress Sophie. “I have enjoyed it so far, especially the Imperial Crypt. Jason showed me the tomb of Emperor Theophylactus, which was quite exciting given my affinity for history.”

“...And was Empress Claudia down there?” Teresa asked. “Third daughter of Prince Robert the Younger and Tetrica Posthuma? Younger sister of Emperor Nathan I of Ghant...oh, by the way did you know that I knew a person who knew him? Princess Ella, Late Roman Empress, who herself was the granddaughter of Nathan I, grew up at his court, for she was born in 1840, and he died in 1858. She herself died in 1940, when I was twenty. Every chance I got, I would have her tell me stories of the first Emperor of Ghant. And naturally, she would tell me stories of Emperor Theophylactus and Empress Claudia too, for she knew of them, dear Ella, may she rest in peace.”

“Yes, she is,” Jason told Teresa of Empress Claudia. “From what I’ve read she complimented Theophylactus’ skills perfectly.”

“Quite the power couple, huh?” Sulpicia said to the group jokingly. A comment that caused the Consul’s wife, Sophia Pompilius to whisper something to her husband. No doubt about Sulpicia.

“That is quite intriguing.” Lightly tapping her grandmother on the shoulder, she spoke up a bit. “Grandmother was recently chosen as the ‘most beloved Empress’ since Marie of Ditoise - my many greats grandfather’s bride, Louis XX. Poor Hélène was up in arms.” Grinning slightly at the memory of her sister in law’s failed attempt at hiding her own disappointment at not being important enough to even warrant a listing on the rather extensive group of women, she looked at Teresa for a moment. “Whether that was due to her mannerisms in public or her rather interesting sense of humor in interviews is not really for me to say, though.”

“That is quite the accomplishment, Aunt Teresa!” Nathan exclaimed. “Tell us, what did you do while you were Empress that you think earned you such love and admiration of the people of Vannois?”

Dabbing her mouth with a handkerchief, Teresa responded after thinking for a moment. “I always wanted to be accessible to the people. I grew up in the court of the Mad Emperor of Ghant, I remembered and lived through the whole Ghantish Revolution. Either of those things would make anyone enjoy life and try to live it to the fullest, but also know how important it is to be good, gentle and kind. And have a sense of humor. You learn to appreciate the little things, from the regular people who live their lives with hardly any recognition to the farmers who toil endlessly in the soil so they can produce harvest. That for me was what the democratic movement in Vannois was all about...little people having a say, and their voices heard. They do have so much to say, even the farmers!” Pausing again for a drink of wine, she continued then. “Farming is something that I believe most people overlook despite its great importance, and in many ways, it is something that people can easily relate to. For plowing, fertilizing, and sowing seed are the very basis of life.”

“...It sure is,” Nathan replied with a grin, a hand on Isabella’s shoulder. “Well said, Aunt Teresa.”

“Yes, eloquently put, Your Highness,” Jason responded similarly to Nathan. “Speaking of farmers, you grew up on a farm, didn’t you Alex?” he then asked the Consul Alexander Pompilius.

Pompilius cleaned his mouth with a napkin before responding. “I did, Caesar. A little farm in a run-down town in Liburnia,” sharing a small part of his past. “My father was a pear farmer, though not a very successful one,” he laughed. “But a very determined worker.” Like hell he was, that man was scum of the earth, he thought.

“Many Vannoisians find themselves in the agricultural sector, though more in Bahdaan than the mainland. When I was granted the Duchy of Chazieu upon my marriage to Theo, I was inclined to visit; I found that the grassroots of the democratic movement had started there, right in my new if short term home. Pascal Robichaud - the man who led the peaceful Saint-Nazaire protests and later became the first elected Prime Minister of Vannois - had lived there for some forty years until his death.” Sipping her wine, she looked somewhat pensive. “Farmers really are one of the most powerful common classes in Vannois, even across the rest of Ixnay. Not what one might expect, to be sure.”

“Well, we better leave them to their farming then,” Sophia Pompilius laughed. “Lord knows how much a hole this farmer here will dig this country into,” she continued poking fun at her husband.

“...Farmers understand the value and meaning of hard work, which explains much of their importance, for those who work hardest often contribute the most,” Teresa nodded gently as she took a bite of some vegetables. "Work hard for what you want, after all most things that are worth it don't come easy...well, some things come easy, if you know what you are doing."

“That we do,” Pompilius nodded in agreeance. “My father ingrained that very mindset into my head at a very young age...and look where I wound up. Sitting at a table with some of the finest minds and faces from across the world,” he continued with his typical speech of flatteries.

“I do wish that Joséphine could have come along. She’s working on reelection at the moment, but I am sure it would have been interesting to have another career politician at the table.” Antoinette said, referencing the current Prime Minister in Joséphine Le Trémoille. The woman was not beloved, but she was also not despised, and many thought that her second term would be a watershed moment should the Front succeed in holding back Unité. “She is also often one for these sorts of events - I ought to mention that her family was once considered nobility amongst Vannoisians - but the battle in a few of her fellow MP’s constituencies warranted her presence.”

“Speaking of the finest minds and faces,” Teresa began to say, “my great-great-nephew and I have taken it upon ourselves to acquire and present a gift for the Empress...isn’t that right, my dear boy?” she asked Nathan.

“Yes, of course, Aunt Teresa, we did get a little something something for Empress Sophie,” Nathan said with a wry grin. “Should we bring it in?”

“For me?” the Latin Empress said with a slight shock. “You really shouldn’t have.”

“No, I’m curious,” Jason told his wife. “Someone bring this thing in.”

Nathan gestured with his hand to his people, and in through the doors came a pair of servants carrying something under a sheet. Teresa beamed with pride. “I have always been a fan of art, you see, and the idea of capturing magnificent things for all time. As a little girl, I used to run amok the Imperial Palace of Ghish and study them all, and all of them I came to know by heart too.” Once the men were in position with the gift set on the floor, she gave the signal, and the servants pulled the sheet off, revealing a portrait of the Empress.

“Perhaps in a few hundred years, another little girl will run by this and wonder, ‘who is that pretty lady there in the portrait?’ and then they can find out that it was none other than Empress Sophie!” Teresa smiled brightly.

“It is beautiful - nearly as beautiful as the Empress herself, surely.” Antoinette marveled at the lovely portrait; it seemed to capture the Empress perfectly. “I feel I must ask, grandmother, Emperor Nathan - who painted this?”

“A Ghantish artist by the name of Albert Lankar the Younger, as it happens,” Nathan responded after a sip of wine.

“Oh my,” Sophie said as she stood, marveling at the painting. “It’s...it’s wow,” she stated. “I don’t know what to say. Thank you so much.” she went on, now standing in front of the portrait.

“Beautiful,” Isabella added, planting a kiss on Nathan’s cheek.

“...Just like you,” Nathan said back to Isabella softly in her ear. So smooth.

“A spitting image,” Jason Augustus said. “Thank you, Your Majesty, Your Highness,” he nodded to Nathan and Teresa. “I’ll have to send my regards to Mr. Lankar on his magnificent work.”

“I shall as well,” Sophie smiled brightly. “I don’t think i can thank the two of you enough.”

“Dessert will be thanks enough,” Teresa offered with a raise and tip of her wine glass, while Nathan inclined his head.

“Dessert it is,” Jason Augustus said while motioning his hand to the various servants. After a moment, servants re-entered the dining hall with traditional Latin Gelato in just about any flavor one could imagine.

That finally seemed to keep the old Dowager Empress quiet, while Nathan poked at the gelato with his fork. “This is quite good...and it seems like Aunt Teresa thinks so too. Haven’t heard a peep out of her since it came out.”

“It’s some of the best in Latium,” Sophie Augusta stated. “Hopefully it keeps her quiet the rest of the night,” she quietly whispered to Jason, causing him to laugh.

“It certainly is,” added Sulpicia. “I haven’t had gelato this good since we graduated from College, Bella.”

“Perk of being Emperor,” Jason said. “You have access to the best chefs and cooks in the world.”

“Ain’t that the truth?” Nathan asked rhetorically before laughing. “Although...does it ever wanting to get something from the city? Like pizza, hoagies or donuts?”

“Unfortunately, this one doesn’t let me near those types of foods often,” Jason told Nathan placing his hand on his wife’s leg. “She says it’s for my health,” he laughed.

“Isabella doesn’t mind a Creamy Crisp Donut every now and again,” Nathan grinned as he nudged Isabella with his elbow. “Do you?”

“A umm, surprisingly delicious Ghantish delicacy,” Isabella smiled. “You’d probably enjoy the taste too, Alexandra,” she told her friend, causing Sophie to roll her eyes.

“Perhaps,” Sulpicia shortly replied.

“How are Latin donuts by comparison?” Nathan posed the question to no one in particular.

“Quite delicious from my experience,” Sulpicia stated with a slight flutter in her eyes.

“Well, having had donuts from both places,” Isabella started. “I would have to say that Ghantish one’s are beyond compare,” she told the table, placing her hand in Nathan’s lap.

“It is known,” Nathan replied.

“It is known,” Teresa seconded.

Sophie continued to bite her tongue and gripped Jason’s hand tight. “Dinner was extravagant, was it not?” she said to divert the subject.

“Certainly was,” Pompilius said. “A great meal with even greater company,” he continued attempting to appeal to the egos in the room.

“Why thank you,” Teresa said with an incline of her head. “The hour grows late and my time is near. I won’t bother my sweetling for that though.” Turning her head to Nathan, she barked, “Nathan, dear, can you see me to my chambers? I doubt Isabella would mind, isn’t that right dear?” she asked coyly.

“No, of course not, Your Highness,” Isabella smiled to Teresa.

“We’ll be sad to see you retire for the night, Your Highness,” Jason Augustus told her. “Thank you for coming tonight.”

“You are welcome...alas, a lady my age needs ample sleep. Oh, and my husband you to tell me that,” Teresa replied with a smirk.

“Of course, Aunt Teresa,” Nathan said as he got up and went to help her. “Let’s see you to your chambers, shall we?”

“That will serve. Good night everyone, well met and good tidings,” she said with a smile as she took Nathan’s arm so he could lead her off.

Sophie smiled to Teresa as she exited the hall with Nathan, waiting for the doors to close behind them. “She is a rather lively one for someone her age,” she spoke to the group.

“I thought she was rather entertaining,” Jason replied. “She was...very insightful,” he laughed.

“It was just harmless fun, Sophie,” Isabella shot at the Empress.

“Yea, don’t be such a stick in the mud, dear,” Jason told his wife while other guests quietly conversed among themselves.

“Very well then,” Sophie sulked.

Isabella turned to Alexandra, “So what do you think?”

“Of?” Sulpicia asked already knowing the answer.

“Of Nathan. Isn’t he great?” Isabella asked her.

Sulpicia drank from her glass before answering. “He’s very lucky to have you, Bella. I’ll tell you that I don’t really understand the whole situation, but he seems like...quite the man,” she told Isabella.

As Nathan walked Teresa to her chambers, she spoke softly to him, looking down the hall. “Zure promesak traizio duzu, badakizu eskubide hori, maitea?” (You betrayed your vows, you know that right, dear?)

The Emperor of Ghant sighed at the thought. “Ez da egun bat doa itzuli denean, ez dut pentsatu. Inoiz ez dut esan ahal Isabel nola lotsatzen naiz.” (Not a day goes back when I don't think about it. I can never tell Isabella how ashamed I feel.)

“Zortea zaude, Sophia dela ez erauzi zure bolak amatatuta, eta bota zuen bere ipurdian. Malibar esan du aprobetxatu bere ... agian ez duzu.” (You are lucky, that Sophia hasn't ripped your balls off, and thrown her out on her ass. Malibar has said you take advantage of her...maybe you do.) The Dowager Empress seemed somewhat sad.

“Horri buruz zerbait egin nahi badut ere, orain arte, beranduegi da. Onena egin da emaria joan, uste dut.” (Even if I wanted to do something about it, it is far too late for that. Best thing to do is go with the flow, I think.) Nathan came to stand in front of her chamber door with her.

She turned to him and gave a faint smile. “Seguruenik, beraz, maitea. Kontuz ibili fluxua ez dela miaketan kanpoan.” (Probably so, my dear. Be careful that the flow doesn't sweep you away.) Then in Latin she told him goodnight.

“Goodnight, Aunt Teresa,” he told her before she vanished into her chambers, leaving him to his devices.

“There you are,” Isabella smiled to Nathan. “You ready to call it a night?” she asked ready to head to their room.

Nathan turned to face Isabella. “Might as well. I know you need me to tuck you in before you can sleep soundly.”

“I sure do,” Isabella laughed before kissing him on the cheek. She wrapped her arm around his and began to walk away.

“...Not as much as I enjoy doing the tucking,” he said with a smirk as he took her hand, and went with her.

IIwiki Admin · by **Ghant** » Mon Jan 11, 2016 1:10 pm

Palace of Augustus
Castellum ab Alba
June 2016

“Did you have another nightmare last night,” Sophie asked her husband still laying in bed. “You were tossing and turning all night.”

“No...I, it was nothing, love,” Jason told his wife, planting a kiss on her forehead. “Just a dream is all,” he went on throwing on a custom golf polo.

Sophie didn’t necessarily believe him, but knew better than the press the issue. “You’re not leaving me so early are you?” she asked pulling him back down onto the large bed. “Why don’t you just stay awhile longer?” she asked again kissing him.

“If I could,” Jason said quickly returning the kiss. “I have a guest to entertain and a country to run. I’ll be back sometime later,” he finished saying, adjusting a hat and placing sunglasses on top of them.

Jason exited the suite and walked down the halls of the great palace, passing a number of fine works of art, some including his father and grandfather. After walking for nearly ten minutes to reach his destination, he knocked on the door housing Nathan and Isabella.

“...hrm.” Nathan had his face buried face down in the pillow and refused to budge. Too early, go away.

Jason looked at his watch, it read 8:49 am and knocked again. “It’s Jason,” he said after his knock.

“...Isabella,” Nathan groaned. “Can you get that?”

Isabella rolled over and nearly fell out of the bed. When she opened her eyes, she slowly rose out of the bed and grabbed the top sheet of the bed and wrapped herself in it. Reaching the door, she opened it and saw her brother. “Brother?” she questioned. “It’s like 5 in the morning.”

“Yea, its actually 9. But good morning to you too,” Jason replied to his half-asleep sister. “Is Nathan sleeping? I was thinking he and I could unwind on the golf course.”

“Nathan,” Isabella groaned. “He wants to talk to you,” she said walking back to the bed.

“...alright.” Rising from the bed, Nathan threw on a robe and walked to the door. “Hey Jason, what’s up?” His hair was a mess and he had crust around his eyes.

“I was wondering if you were interested in going for a quick round of golf this morning?” Jason asked Nathan.

“...Uh...yeah sure.” Looking at the clock, Nathan then turned back to Jason and asked, “Is at an old folks home, and does it come with a continental breakfast?” he couldn’t help but grin afterwards.

Jason bit his tongue. “No,” he said abruptly, hearing his sister giggle in the background. “A country club, if you can believe it. Reserved it for the day.”

“Very thoughtful. Yeah, that sounds good. I might need a bit to...freshen up first,” the Emperor of Ghant suggested.

“Of course. I’ll be in the study when you’re ready,” Jason replied before leaving.

“So....are you two friends now?” Isabella probed at Nathan when Jason walked away.

Nathan waited until he was gone before closing the door and turning around. “Well, he is asking me to golf, but that might just be the polite thing to do.” Walking behind Isabella, he pressed himself against her and reached around through the bedsheet. “He did give me some time to freshen up, by the way…”

“Well you better freshen up then,” Isabella teased him. “Mustn’t keep dear old Caesar waiting.”

“Of course.” With a devilish smirk, he attempted to throw her over his shoulder so he could take her with him to the bathroom.

“Ah!” Isabella squealed in glee as Nathan tossed her over his shoulder, disappearing into the bathroom with him.

...Roughly thirty minutes later, Nathan emerged from the bathroom, and began to get dressed, in a thin doublet, some slacks and tennis shoes with long white socks. “I have a rule...get up that early, might as well get one in. Great way to start the day off right, don’t you think?”

“Best way,” Isabella grinned to him. “You look so handsome,” she giggled. “Try not to lose too bad.”

“Thanks...you are not so bad yourself,” Nathan grinned. “What are you going to do today while your brother kicks my ass on the green?”

“Alexandra and I were going to get lunch a little later. You know, catch up and all of that,” Isabella told him.

“Compare notes?” Nathan laughed as he finished getting dressed.

“Naturally,” Isabella joked right back. “Now, try and have some fun, darling,” she finished while kissing him.

The Emperor kissed her back, while wrapping one arm around her back and another on her behind. “You know me...all I do is have fun.”

“Oh, I know,” Isabella grinned to him one last time. “I love you.”

“I love you too,” he said back, before grabbing his wallet, phone and sunglasses. “I’ll be back.” With that, he struck out down the hall, a few of his men ready and following, and looked for Jason in the study.

Meanwhile, Jason was in his study reading over a few of the measures pending in front of the Senate. Nothing I’ll have to veto. That’s good at least, he thought to himself. The Latin Emperor, however, kept finding it difficult to concentrate on reading the bill, running his fingers over his temples.

“What’s up?” Nathan asked as he entered the study and plopped down on a seat.

Jason placed the papers on the near barren desk-top that featured a single personal effect, a photograph of him with his two children. “Just re-reading some things that are up for a vote in the Senate,” he told Nathan. “Do you golf much in Ghant?” he asked him as he stood up.

“...Does mini-golf count?” Nathan asked as he got up as well. “If so then yes.”

“I’m afraid only if you are a child,” Jason laughed as he began to lead Nathan down the hallway. “I try and get out once every month or so. But unfortunately, a man is busy.”

“You say that, but I would have you know that mini-golf requires a lot of skill. Besides, it you appear as though you have never played at the Ball-Slap mini-golf course in uptown Ghish. It’s a real...ball breaker,” Nathan said with a smirk as he walked with Jason down the hallway.

“Can’t say I have,” Jason continued as he pointed to the motorcade of cars through the open door. “I’m sure you remember how...interesting the most recent state visit went,” he said recalling his last trip to Ghish.

“Oh, I remember it all too well,” Nathan laughed. “Arietta thought there was a spider in her room and climbed out the window via a rope she made out of her bedsheets. Very crafty, that one.”

“Ah,” Jason sounded. “I had the pleasure to meet her when I was visiting Ghish,” he began. “She seems to be a very lively young lady.”

“...You could say that,” Nathan laughed again, scratching the back of his neck. “She certainly is amusing. She’s all that I have left of my father.”

Jason entered the car, “To bad what happened to him. He seemed like a good man, from what the little I’ve heard.”

“A better man than I will ever be,” Nathan said almost sadly as he climbed into the car. “Especially at golf.”

“Most fathers are,” Jason stated. “I remember the first time my dad took me on the course. I was 6,” he told Nathan as the car began moving. “He showed no mercy, even to a child.”

“Well, you won’t ever get any better if everyone goes easy on you,” Nathan mused as he leaned back into his seat. “That applies to most things in life.”

“He made sure to tell me that at every opportunity,” Jason laughed. “By the way I didn’t ask, lefty or righty? I had my Praetorians bring a set of each just incase.”

“Thank you for that,” Nathan replied with a toothy grin. “Left.”

“Very good,” Jason smiled. “Looks like we’re just about here,” he said looking out the window with the view of the majestic golf club. The motorcade pulled around to the main entrance of the club, which featured a series of marble pillars from the ground up. Inside, the club was empty of all but limited club personnel. As the cars stopped, Praetorians opened the doors for both Jason and Nathan, while others grabbed their respective golf bags. “Perfect weather,” Jason said stepping out of the car.

Nathan put on his sunglasses as he stepped out and looked around. “So, do we have caddies?”

“Naturally,” Jason grinned as two what seemed to be college age girls approached the two monarchs and their golf cart. Both stood at nearly the same height, one with long blonde hair, and the other a brunette. “I’m sorry girls, they haven’t told me your names yet.”

“Julia, Caesar,” the young blonde said.

“Antonia,” the brunette stated as they both prepared the bags for each of the monarchs.

Nathan laughed again. “Wait…” he said to the blond. “Your name is Julia Caesar? Oh my that’s clever,” he said with a smile to the blonde.

“No, Your Majesty. I wish though” Julia laughed. “I was...just addressing the Caesar,” she finished.

“And what a Caesar he is,” Nathan said cheerfully. “I love his salad. So, which one of you is my caddy?”

Jason pretended to laugh while the two caddies laughed at Nathan’s remark. “I am, Your Majesty,” said Antonia as she grabbed a number of balls from his golf bag and placed them in the front of the golf cart for him.

“Normally they make the caddies run alongside the carts here,” Jason told Nathan. “But with the club closed, I figured we could each have our own cart. And besides, no need to make these poor girls run for 18 holes,” he finished saying, clearly checking out both of the girls.

“Naturally...that is...far too many holes,” Nathan smirked. “And that way we can race.” Leaning into Antonia’s ear, he asked her, “how old are you two?”

“I’m 20 and Julia is 19, Your Majesty,” Antonia whispered back to Nathan.

“Ready for hole number one? It’s a pretty simple par 4,” Jason shouted to Nathan as he sped toward the first tee-box.

“Yeah, I am ready,” Nathan shouted back, before turning back to Antonia. “You guys doing this as a summer job or something along those lines?”

“Yes, Your Majesty,” Antonia nodded. “This is my third summer here actually. Need someway to supplement what my scholarship doesn’t.”

Jason’s cart stopped at the tee box and walked up to it, overlooking the hole. Julia approached him with his driver and golf balls. “Would like the honor of going first, Nathan?” Jason asked.

“Sure, I can set the tone,” Nathan said with a grin as he got out of the cart and approached the tee box. “You never know, by the time the day is through, I may be a better golfer than I thought.” the Emperor of Ghant stretched and did some practice swings.

“Alright, lets see it then,” Jason said as he stepped back with Julia. “Think it goes 100 yards?” he whispered to Julia causing her to giggle.

Focusing on the shot, Nathan took a deep breath and swung his club. The ball went flying in the wind, in the direction of the hole, watching it carry. It landed in the green, well on its way to the hole. “All in the flick of the rest.”

“Hell of a shot,” Jason said approaching the box. He looked down the fairway, pushing his sunglasses up, letting them fall back down before he stood over the ball. He stood there, still for a few seconds. Then he swung and hit the ball, seeing it drop on the left-side of the fairway about a 120 yards from the hole. “Good enough start, I suppose,” he said walking back to the cart.

“Very nice shot, Your Majesty,” Julia told him when he reached the cart.

“Yes, quite good.” Nathan went up to the ball via the cart, and then again focused on the shot. Another deep breath, he swung his club, sending the ball flying again. This time, it landed within putting distance of the hole. “...That will have to work.”

Jason approached his ball, “Hand me the sand wedge, Julia,” he asked his caddy. He took one look at the hole, calmed for a second and hit the ball. The ball hit the pin in the air and rolled to the edge of the green, barely staying on. “Fuck. Damn pin,” he said.

Nathan leaned into Antonia’s ear again. “What are you studying in school?”

“Pre-med,” Antonia smiled at him. “I’d like to be a doctor eventually.”

“Looks like I’m furthest out,” Jason stated, walking to his ball. Julia handed him a towel and he wiped his hands before hitting the long putt. Hitting the ball, it stopped just short of the hole, maybe a yard or two. “Almost,” Jason smiled.

“Is this your first trip to Castellum, Your Majesty,” Antonia quickly asked Nathan while Jason putted.

“This is,” Nathan smiled back. “It’s pretty nice down here. Very beautiful country.” Having taken the cart down to his ball, he got a putter and assumed position. He stuck his butt out a bit and wiggled it before putting, sending the ball inching its way towards the hole, before finally slowing down and dropping in. “Three shots...not bad. It will serve.”

Jason tapped his last putt in, reaching a par. “You sure you’re not hustling me?” Jason asked Nathan while the two caddies placed the pin back in the hole and got ready for the next one.

“...Do I strike you as a hustler?” Nathan chuckled, walking back to his cart for the next hole.

“I haven’t decided yet,” Jason said in a semi-serious tone. “But that was an impressive start. Girls,” he shouted. “Take the carts to the next hole, we’ll walk.”

“Good exercise.” Shifting on the balls of his feet, Nathan went to walk with Jason to the next hole. “Thank you.”

“You know, I’ve been curious,” Jason started as they walked. “How does your wife feel about the whole...you know?”

“...She’s indifferent,” Nathan confessed with a sigh. “She might have cared once, but that was then, and this is now. So I just go with it, each day.”

“Lucky you. I can only imagine how that would have gone down with Sophie,” Jason told him while the caddies cleaned some balls.

“...If either of us were catholic, it probably would have turned out differently,” Nathan laughed. “Religious views on such things tend to be rather restrictive.”

“You don’t have to tell me,” Jason chuckled. “They love their rules and forcing them onto people,” he said now standing at the teebox. “Well, it’s your shot. You won the last hole.”

“Of course.” Nathan considered as he came to prepare for the next shot. He was able to send it a good distance away, although this time the ball landed around the rough. “Shit,” he said, softly.

“Can’t all be winners,” Jason said slightly condescendingly. “At least Antonia is here to help you find it,” he continued with a laugh as he stood over his ball sitting on the tee. This hole was a curving par 5 and Jason hit the ball as straight as could be this time around. “Let’s go Julia,” he said with a wink.

Nathan was able to get the hole within two more shots. “I wonder if he realizes that the more he talks like that, the more motivated I will be to beat him,” he said with a smirk to Antonia as he advanced to the next hole.

Antonia giggled, “My father always told me that golf is mostly in the head. So, you’re doing great so far, Your Majesty.”

“Please, call me Nathan,” the Emperor of Ghant said politely.

“Of course, Nathan,” Antonia blushed.

After two more shots, Jason was able to reach the green and try for a birdie. “Might be all tied up after I sink this one,” he said to Nathan after the ball reaching the green. He handed Julia the club he just shot with and gave her a quick, but firm pat on the ass, thinking that neither Nathan nor Antonia were looking at them. This caused Julia to giggle and blush, clearly enjoying the attention from the Emperor.

“I hope you have a scorecard,” the Ghantish Emperor said to the Latin one. “I can’t remember scores so good.”

“Oh, thats one of the things the girls are for,” Jason told Nathan with a laugh as he walked to his ball on the green. He squatted down and looked at the green leading to the hole. “Looks tricky,” he said.

“...Yes, that it does.” Nathan stroked his chin as he approached his ball. Thinking for a bit, he swung his club when it was his turn, and sent the ball soaring, landing not far from the hole. “...Lucky shot,” he shrugged.

“Luck is half the battle,” Jason grinned after Nathan’s shot met him on the green. “Two-putt or more?” Jason whispered to Julia mocking Nathan, causing her to giggle rather loudly. Then he stood over his ball and aligned his shot, sinking it in the hole. “Nailed it,” he smiled.

“The other half is skill,” Nathan said back somewhat condescendingly as he stood over his ball, and with some contemplation, sunk the ball with a careful shot.

“All that mini-golf must have been great short-game practice,” Jason said to Nathan in a semi-complementary way. “Mark me down for a 4, Julia,” Jason told her. “Par for you, Nathan?”

“Indeed...it has also helped my stroke,” the Ghantish Emperor responded. “Yeah...that sounds about on par.”

The caddies took the scores down. “I need something to drink,” Jason stated to the group. “Think it’s too early for a beer?” he asked Nathan as he sat in his cart. “I can have my men bring anything out.”

“It’s never too early for a beer,” Nathan smirked. Hopefully, he starts drinking so he will be easier to beat. It wasn’t that Nathan was bad at golf per say...he was just inconsistent. Which to him might as well have meant bad. But after Jason started running his mouth, Nathan definitely had an axe to grind, very much wanting to beat him. Back in his cart, Nathan asked Antonia, “do you want anything?”

“I wouldn’t mind a water or even an energy drink,” Antonia replied.

Jason called his detail, “Yea, bring a six-pack or two out, and some water and gatorade for the caddies.” He turned to Nathan, “They should be out before the end of the next hole. Ready to get spanked on the next hole?” he joked to Nathan, even though the two had the same score so far.

“Yup,” the Emperor of Ghant responded curtly. He was going to get a hole in one on one of them, mark my words.

“Alright, next one is a par three,” Jason said as he drove off on his cart with Julia, who appeared to becoming rather comfortable with the Latin Emperor so far.

“What’s par three?” Nathan asked Antonia in the cart as he began to drove it. “I am not big on all this golf vernacular.”

“Well, this is one of the shorter holes on the course,” Antonia told him. “You have three shots to basically get the ball in the hole because it is much shorter. Though, on this hole the green is on an island and most hit the water.”

“I’ll shoot first,” Jason said. He teed up his shot and hit the ball, watching it land over the green, barely missing the water. “Shit that was close.”

When Nathan hit his ball, it went soaring over the water, landing well into the green. “What a shame. I do like playing in the water,” he said with a laugh.

“Nice shot,” Jason told him. “Not often people manage to actually hit this green during the first round on this course.”

Not everyone is as motivated as I am to perform, Nathan thought. “I guess today is just my lucky day,” he said with a cocked head and a beaming smile.

“Must be,” Jason said as a Praetorian rode up with the refreshments. Julia met the man, who handed her two coolers full of beer, water and gatorade. “Nathan?” Jason said holding a cold beer up. “Ladies, feel free to help yourselves.”

“Yeah sure, I will take one,” he responded with a smirk. “You too right?”

“Of course,” Jason replied popping the top of the can open. “Cheers,” he said before walking to the green with Nathan, while the caddies took a rest in the carts.

“Cheers,” Nathan said in response before taking a sip. “Not bad...what do you think about this brand?”

“Not awful considering it’s probably the first thing they could get their hands on,” Jason replied to Nathan. “How is Antonia doing? Helpful?” he asked approaching his ball.

“Yeah, really helpful. Knowledgable about the game and polite. A pre-med student too, which shows in her sharpness,” Nathan explained.

“Is she? Brains and looks makes for a dangerous combination,” Jason joked with him. “Julia mentioned she wanted to be a lawyer, plus she is very attractive,” he continued with a laugh. “Must be nice to be able to grow up and decide where you want to go with your life,” he said while still knowing that he wouldn’t have wanted to grow up any other way than he had.

“...Or just being born into the life you want,” Nathan said back to him. “Caddies in Ghant tend to be boys, so I wouldn’t know too much about that.”

“Most of the caddies here are too. But I always try and request the female ones if they are available,” Jason grinned. “Alright, well...let’s see you drain this next putt.”

Imagine that. Nathan lined up the putt, and swung his club, sending it bouncing too the hole at an angle. Fortunately, it circled it’s way back into the hole. “There you go,” he said with a twinkle in his eye.”

“Very nice,” Jason said before standing above his own ball, just on the edge of the green. He struck the ball, which stopped just short of the hole. He walked up to the ball for this second putt with a look of anger on his face and tapped it in for a par. “That was a 3, Julia,” he told his caddy.

“Nice shot,” Nathan offered. “Just be sure to take your time lining up the putt.”

“Noted,” Jason shortly replied. “Hope you’re ready for the next one. It’s the hardest on the course,” he said taking a long drink of his beer.

“Yup,” he said as he took a drink of the beer. Although, when he knew nobody was looking, he spit it out.

“How many children do you have now?” Jason asked curiously. And from how many women, he thought still a bit bitter over the Isabella situation.

“...six,” Nathan answered, softly. “And you have two?”

“Just the two,” Jason said. “Sophie wants more, so we’ll see how many we end up,” he said taking a look around, noticing Julia bend over to grab something she dropped. “Well, it’s your shot when you’re ready.”

“Of course.” Taking his time to line up the shot, he hit it hard and sent it flying down the way. It landed a bit to the side, near some rough. “Damn.”

“Ohh,” Jason sounded after Nathan hit. Then he took his place in the teebox and closed his eyes for a moment before hitting. He took his swing and hit the ball nearly 275 yards, landing on the left end of the fairway. “Hitting from the short stuff,” he said snidely.

“Yeah.” Red-faced, Nathan approached his ball, and with a hard swing, send it flying towards the left end of the fairway. It landed in an area that seemed on course.

“Looks like he’s getting upset,” Jason whispered to Julia, who was standing very close to the Monarch. Jason took his next shot, the ball landing just short of the green. “I’ll just wait over here for you,” he shouted to Nathan after his shot, attempting to oggle Julia.

Nathan’s next shot landed on the green, to which he said, “ohh.”

“Beautiful recovery shot,” Jason said impressed. He approached his ball and lightly chipped it on the green, watching it roll closer and closer to the hole before it dropped in. “Damn, what luck,” he smiled.

For his shot, Nathan took a deep breath and tapped it into the hole, nice and straight. “Thank you, not so bad yourself.”

“Thanks, I won’t take credit for luck of the spin though,” Jason told him. Jason was trying not to be combative with Nathan, per his wife’s wishes, Jason was trying, though not his hardest, at being cordial with Nathan. “What are we, tied again?” Jason chuckled as Julia handed him another beer. “Looks like we’ll being going back and forth all day.”

“That’s how it appears,” Nathan nodded in agreement, before heading to his cart.

“The next hole is another short par 3,” Antonia told Nathan when he approached the cart. “I was caddying the other day and someone actually got a hole-in-one on it. First I’ve ever seen.”

“...So, a hole in one is doable on it?” Nathan asked excitedly. “How did he do it?”

“I mean of course its doable, just rather difficult,” Antonia replied. “Well, he had the wind with him and it just dropped and rolled right into it.”

“What club do you prefer?” Jason asked Julia. “I was thinking an 8 or 9 iron.”

“Go with the 9,” Julia softly said to him. “The 9 never fails.”

“Alright,” Nathan replied. “Thank you.” With that, he drove up to the tee and approached the initial spot, waiting for Jason’s signal.

With his 9 iron in his grip, Jason placed his ball and tee in the ground, while sharing a look with Julia. “I’ll shoot first,” he said with a bit of cockiness. He hit the ball, seeing it land about 25 feet from the hole. “Not too shabby,” he said aloud.

Nathan approached his ball and took a deep breath. Remembering Antonia’s advice, he waited until the wind was with him, and then he swung his club hard and true. It went soaring into the wind, and then landed hard upon the green. It began to bounce along, before finally rolling ever so slowly towards the hole. It began a slow crawl towards the edge, where it nearly came to a stop, before finally falling in. “Not too shabby,” Nathan said aloud, before saying to Antonia, “holy shit.”

“Fucking shit,” Jason muttered to himself quietly in Greek. “What a fucking shot,” he then said to Nathan. “Better keep...save that ball.” Now I have to sink this so he doesn’t get too big of a lead, he thought walking to his ball on the green.

“Thank you,” he said before turning his head to smile at Antonia. He mouthed the same to her, as he walked to the hole.

Antonia clapped her hands and nodded her head as Nathan thanked her.

Jason, now standing on the green, examined the line of his ball. “Julia, what do you think of this?” he asked as she bent over next to him.

“Looks like it’s going a little to the right,” Julia told Jason as he stood up and checked out her backside.

“Definitely,” Jason quickly said. Standing over his ball, Julia backed off the green and Jason took his putt. It was a smooth stroke and nearly lipped out of the hole, but dropped in for a birdie.

The remaining 15 holes continued to be a back and forth affair. Now the two monarchs approached the 18th hole, a long par 5, over 550 yards, with a green surrounded by sand traps. “This is it, Nathan,” Jason said. “Winner takes all. You ready for this?”

“Yup,” he answered softly. “Let’s do it.” Nathan turned to Antonia and spoke quietly. “How can I do this one?”

Antonia spoke with Nathan while Julia assisted Jason at the teebox. “Well, it seems pretty straight forward until you get to the bend. At that point I’d hit an iron, that way you’ll avoid the traps, but that would be playing it safe, Nathan,” Antonia told him, looking to Julia being rather chummy with Jason.

“Alright,” Nathan said as he prepared his club and swing. The two didn’t go unnoticed to him either. “What do you think about them?” he asked her.

“I..uh I don’t know,” Antonia replied. “I don’t really want to say anything that could get me in trouble,” she told him, hinting that she possibly knew some details.

Jason took his shot after conversing with Julia for some time. His shot landed on the right, just off the fairway in the rough. “Not my best,” he said stepping away from the box.

Nathan stepped into the box, and after a few moments of waiting for the wind and the right shot, he swung, sending the ball flying, landing on the fairway. “It will serve,” he said.

Fuck, Jason thought as he and Julia rode off to his ball. It took sometime for them to find it, but eventually Julia did and Jason prepared for his shot. Julia handed him a 5 wood, prompting Jason to say, “A wood, yea, I do well with my wood,” as he winked at her, causing a rather loud laugh. He struck his ball, watching it land a distance from the series of sand traps, but still over 100 yards from the green.

The Emperor of Ghant walked to the fairway, and again took his time with the shot. When the time was right, he took a hefty swing, sending it flying towards the green, where it landed not all that far away from the hole. “Shooting from the short stuff,” he said loudly with a chuckle.

“Fucking a,” Jason said about Nathan’s shot. I need to sink this one just to have a chance at tying him, he thought. Julia handed him a wedge and he approached his ball. He took his time on it, taking over five minutes before actually hitting his ball. The ball landed on the green with some speed, causing it to roll down to the hole. But instead of dropping in, the ball bounced off the flag-stick, stopping short. This caused Jason to snap the club over his knee.

Nathan had to restrain his laughter, instead grimacing as he approached his shot. It took him a few moments to calm himself, and then with a deep breath, he gave the ball a firm putt, sending it rolling straight for the hole, where it proceeded to drop in. Nathan didn’t say anything, just taking a beer and started drinking it, as if nothing noteworthy happened. He did smirk at Antonia though.

“Great bunch of shots, Nathan,” Antonia told him.

Jason quickly got to his ball on the green and hurriedly tapped the ball in, which meant that Nathan had beaten Jason. He walked back to his cart where Julia was sitting, having just opened another beer for him. “Still a very nice round, Jason,” she told him.

“Thanks, Julia. It’s been great having you out here today. You’ve done a...fantastic job” Jason replied back, dropping some not so subtle hints with his tone and facial expression. He grabbed another beer and opened it. “Here,” he said handing it to her. She blushed and began drinking it as Jason drove the cart to near Nathan’s. “Hell of a round,” he told Nathan.

“Thank you,” Nathan said as he inclined his head. “And you as well, Jason.” As much as he wanted to gloat, he didn’t. Instead, he merely took satisfaction in his achievement while drinking a beer.

Jason waved one of his Praetorians over, who handed him an envelope. “Ladies,” he said to the caddies. “I’d like to thank you for your excellent job today,” he said reaching in the envelope grabbing the money from it. “Here is a token of my gratitude,” he pulled out about £5,000 each for the girls, and snuck a little something extra to Julia before she left. When Antonia turned around, Jason whispered to Julia, “I’ll be in touch.”

“It was great to serve you today, Nathan. And very wonderful to have met you,” Antonia smiled to him.

“You too,” Nathan smiled. “Oh, and for your troubles…” Nathan pulled out his pocket book, and handed each of the girls five thousand dollar notes. “I keep these on me just in case, you know, for occasions like this,” he smiled. “And what’s your name, Antonia? If only because I probably won’t be able to identify you as Dr. Antonia in a few years…”

“Antonia Vera,” she smiled to Nathan. “Perhaps I’ll get to caddy for you next time you decide to golf in Castellum,” she said before leaving with Julia who was still chatting with Jason.

“Perhaps,” he said as he took her hand and gave it a kiss on the back. “Until then, Antonia Vera.”

Antonia bowed her head and walked away with Julia who waved back to the two monarchs.

Jason walked over to Nathan just then. “Still have a couple beers left if you just want to hang out here awhile longer. A few extra minutes away from the wives wouldn’t kill anyone.”

“Yeah, that sounds nice,” Nathan commented as he continued to drink. “Beer’s not bad at all.”

“Not at all,” Jason commented. “You know, I’ve been meaning to ask you something,” he stated to break the silence.

“Go ahead,” the Emperor of Ghant responded with a curt grin. ...This might not be good.

“Do you love my sister?” Jason bluntly asked Nathan. “Or was this a rash decision made because she wasn’t intelligent enough to make you wrap up?”

“I love her quite a bit,” Nathan said without hesitation. “Enough to want her in my life and to provide for her and our child. I want to give her what I know she deserves, which is a lot. I know it’s a dysfunctional situation that is less than ideal by Latin standards, but she is happy and I mean to give that child everything...more than anyone ever gave me. At the end of the day, isn’t that all that matters?”

“That’s all I wanted to hear,” Jason smiled. “I agree, it wasn’t an ideal situation, but she seems rather taken with you. And I just don’t have the energy to fight with her over such things,” he finished, now taking a large gulp from his beer.

“A lot of good can come of this, you know,” Nathan suggested after matching the large gulp. “Politically, that is.”

“So my advisors say,” Jason chuckled. “And you seem like an alright enough person, even though you beat me today,” he laughed even more.

“Well, it’s never about winning or losing,” Nathan pointed out. “But about what you learned along the way. I have learned to go with the wind...let it carry you. Because sometimes, it just might know where you need to go.”

“Sounds like something my father would say,” Jason stated, his pocket vibrating. He reached in and saw a few texts from his wife and a new text from Julia. Then he shoved the phone back in his pocket.

Taking another drink and admiring the scenery, he responded by saying, “my father was a wise man too...told me many things. I listened, but never understood what he was saying...until I got older anyway. In another life, he is emperor right now, and me...well, I would be completely different.” Looking at Jason, he asked, “do you ever wonder about that...what might have been?”

“In regards to what?” Jason asked. “Life in general?” he said.

“Yeah...life in general,” Nathan clarified.

Jason took a moment before answering the question. “I try to keep myself focused on the present,” he began. “Sometimes I wonder why my father abdicated, why he even accepted the throne when grandfather asked him to be heir. Why a man as just and good as he was went out in the way that he did,” he let out. “But...at times, I find myself wondering what my life, what my daughter’s life, would have been like if Stephanie was still with us.”

“Because it was time,” Nathan mused, looking off into the distance. “It can grow heavy. I have been Emperor for...nineteen years, since I was nine. That’s all the life I have ever known, and there are days when it feels heavy. If there were someone ready for it that I could pass it off to, I would consider it too. Your father was a good man...he worked hard. Perhaps he wanted a bit of time for himself before he...died,” Nathan supposed. “And I think about that too...my children. Daughters especially, I have two. I keep thinking, I want to be the sort of father that serves as a model man, the sort of man that they will look for when they get older. And, shame as it is for me to admit, I am not the sort of man I want them to think is normal. One day I will have to explain to them...this. And I don’t know how I am going to do that.”

“Men like us,” Jason started. “We don’t have the pleasure of being normal, model men,” he said. “The things we do for our families, for our countries...there is no way to explain it or for anyone to understand. You know, every single time I look at my daughter, I see my wife,” he began speaking from the heart. “Seeing her, well it makes me think about all the horrible things I have done since I took the throne,” he paused shortly. “People will never understand, Nathan. They won’t.”

“We all do horrible things,” Nathan explained, “so that other’s won’t have to. We may not be the Emperors our countries want, but just might be the ones they need.”

“Agreed,” Jason said, slamming the rest of his beer.

Nathan didn’t respond with words, only with the draining of the rest of his beer. Times like these, no words need to be said…

by **Lacus Magni** » Mon Jan 11, 2016 1:12 pm

Inperiala Palace
Ghish, Ghant
June 7, 2021 CE

It was a seemingly average morning in Ghish. Princess Isabella carefully woke from the bed, Nathan still appearing to be asleep, and threw on a robe. She casually flipped on the television as she made her short walk to the bathroom, as she normally splashed her face and brushed her teeth first thing in the morning. It was then that she heard “Breaking News from Castellum, Latium,” coming from the television broadcast.

“It appears the reports of gunfire are now confirmed, we take you to the live feed of the Via Appia from Latin based LBC News…” said the news broadcast, forcing Isabella to sprint out of the bathroom and turn up the volume.

“...We’re overlooking the historic Via Appia right now and seeing what appears to be an SUV from a government motorcade that was turned over from RPG fire. Oh no, they’re firing on them. They’re just shooting civilians on their way to the flipped SUV. Looks to be maybe 20 masked men, armed with automatic weapons,” the news reporter said from the helicopter just as the news report went back to a studio.

Isabella’s jaw dropped at hearing the news, fearing that the motorcade belonged to a member of her family.

“More breaking news, it appears an explosion has just occurred in front of the Senate building. We cannot say with absolute certainty, but this appears to be a deliberate attack on the building and the surrounding area, making it highly probable that it is linked to the gunfire on the Appia,” the reporter said just before the LBC broadcast cut to an emergency alert system, before cutting back to the Ghantish television broadcast.

Isabella sat, staring at the television in shock as tears began to stream down her face.

Nathan rose from the bed slowly, rubbing his eyes. “Damn, Izzy, you got the news turned up pretty loud…”

She continued to sit in silence, until her crying became more audible as the news report continued. “...and Latin news sources are beginning to report that Consul Alexander Pompilius is among the ever growing number of victims in this devastating attack.”

Once Nathan figured out what was happening, his jaw dropped. “Oh shit, fuck me!” he exclaimed, before moving over to Isabella and cradling her against him. “...I am so sorry…”

Isabella was slightly startled when Nathan touched her, causing her to jerk out of her still state. “I...I...I need to call my brother, mother...anybody,” she said frantically through her tears. “What if...what if it was one of them, Nathan?” she cried nearly collapsing into him.

“You have to believe that it wasn’t,” Nathan pressed. “You have to assume the best, not the worst. I know it’s hard but you have to be strong, for them and for your children.”

“...gun fire is being reported from the Senate building, along with unconfirmed reports of the deaths of Tribune Florescu, and Deputy Consul Clementus,” the news reported.

Isabella struggled to speak. “I need a phone...where is my phone,” she cried. Then she tried to stand up and started shaking, appearing as if she would almost collapse..

Nathan went looking for her phone, digging around the room. “I don’t know where it is...but you can use mine if you need to.” Fortunately, the Emperor had his phone on the nightstand.

Using Nathan’s phone, Isabella dialed her mother. It went straight to voicemail. She looked up at Nathan, now fearing the worst. Then she dialed her brother’s personal phone. “Jason always has his phone,” she said calling him. “There’s not even a dial tone,” she cried. “I...I don’t know what to do, Nathan. I feel helpless,” she said, her face bright red, covered in tears.

“Let’s pray,” Nathan suggested. “I will pray with you. That will help.”

Isabella wiped the tears from her eyes and smiled as best she could at Nathan. “You’re right,” she said before bowing her head and holding her hand out for him.

Nathan, dressed in his bed robes, took a knee in front of her and took her hand with both of his in order to pray.

“Dear Lord,” Isabella began. “Please look over all of those in caught in the middle of the attack in Castellum, their loved ones and all in the city. And my family,” she said with a tear running down her face. “Please look over my family and their safety.”

“Amen,” Nathan said, still holding Isabella’s hand and stroking the back of it gently. “Well said.”

“I hope they’re alright,” Isabella told him. Then she heard her phone ringing across the room, causing her eyes to light up. “Oh my God. Can you grab that, Nate?” she begged.

“Yeah,” Nathan answered briefly before flying across to where the phone was ringing. He picked it up and answered it. “Hello?”

“Nathan, it’s Adelaide,” Isabella’s mother said. “We’re safe, all of us. Could you put Bella on?” she asked.

“That’s good to hear, yes, just a moment,” Nathan told her as he handed the phone to Isabella. “It’s your mother.”

“Oh thank God,” Isabella said grabbing the phone. “Mother,” she cried out. “What the hell is going on?”

“Some attack, I can’t talk long, Bella,” her mother told her. “They have the Palace locked down and are shutting communications. We’re all safe though, your brothers and sisters. I have to go now though.”

“No, mother don’t,” Isabella cried.

“Everything will be alright, my sweet child. We’ll be in touch soon,” Adelaide said before saying goodbye to Isabella.

“It was an attack,” Isabella told Nathan, as she hung up the phone.

“...By who?” Nathan asked. “They will pay, whoever it was. Fucking bastards.”

“She didn’t say,” Isabella replied. “It could still be going on,” she cried.

“...Latin media is now confirming the deaths of Consul Pompilius, Tribune Florescu and Deputy Consul Clementus. Currently, Praetorian Guards have amassed at the blown-out Senate building for what appears to be a stand-off with hostages inside one of the buildings chambers,” was heard coming from the television. “The remainder of Senate leadership and entirety of the Imperial Offices are confirmed out of harm's way and in a safe location.”

“...We should check up on Leo and Diana, eh?” Nathan asked Isabella to give her something positive to do. “Let’s go see them.”

“That’s a good idea,” Isabella replied, wiping the remaining tears from her face before she grabbed his hand.

Standing up, Nathan helped Isabella to her feet, in an effort to go to the two children, the five year old Leo and the three year old Diana.

Isabella stood up and tightly wrapped her rope up. First going to Diana’s room, Isabella found it empty. So then she went to Leo’s room right next door and found the two children sitting on the floor playing with some toys. “Mommy,” they both said with innocent smiles.

“Oh, good morning children,” Isabella said, dropping to her knees to hold each of the children tightly.

“What are you guys doing?” Nathan asked gingerly as he entered the room after Isabella. He went to his knees and ruffled the hair on each of their heads.

“I was showing Diana my train toys, daddy,” Leo told Nathan while Isabella grabbed hold of Diana and stood up with her. “Look at them go around,” he pointed out with a smile.

“Those are nice trains, Leo,” Nathan commented with a grin. “Do you want to eat breakfast? We can talk about riding some real trains then. Would you like that?”

“Yes!” Leo said gleefully. “Then I can ride a train?” he asked very excitedly.

Isabella laughed quickly, before being reminded of the mornings events. “Why don’t we eat some food first, honey.” she told her son. “Then you can talk to your father about trains.”

“Yes, mommy,” Leo replied as he stood up and grabbed his father’s hand.

Nathan took his son’s hand and led him out and down the hall to the dining room...only to find the room occupied with the Crown Prince eating a meaty omelet and buttered popcorn while watching the news on his tablet. “Father,” the six year old crown prince said, ignoring the others while popping bits of popcorn into his mouth while watching something. A very faint smirk was on his face.

“What are you watching?” Papa Nate asked his son. Unlike himself, the Crown Prince was already bathed and clothed in lavish court clothes, sitting up straight in his elevated chair at the table.

“...Some TV,” Baby Nate responded. “It’s so intense, I had to make popcorn.”

When Leo walked into the dining room, he looked at the Crown Prince, but quickly looked away as his mother took his hand from Nathan. Isabella took Leo and Diana and gathered them some food from the table before sitting them down to eat. “Can I watch too, mommy,” Diana softly asked Isabella.

“Eat your breakfast first, sweetheart,” Isabella told her daughter.

“So, father,” Baby Nate began, “I learned about Eutychianus Agricola yesterday, and how he went on a mission up north to spread the gospel to the northerlings. How dumb is that? It’s like that bear whisperer that made that documentary about living amongst bears and then got him and his girlfriend eaten by them. I listened to the audio clip…”

“That’s wonderful, son,” Nathan told him as he got an omelet. “Does your mother know about all that stuff?”

“She wouldn’t care even if she did, father,” the Crown Prince countered. “If I am to be Emperor one day, I must needs be fully aware of all things. Like grandfather says, he who sees, knows, and he who knows, understands. And understanding is half the trouble of ruling.”

A boy shouldn’t know of such horrid things at his age, Isabella thought while she spread jelly across some toast and took a bite. “That is a very insightful thing to say,” Isabella said to Baby Nate politely regarding his last point.

“I know,” Baby Nate replied curtly, before turning to Leo. “So, Leo, whatcha been doing?”

“Sister asked to see the train set I got for my last birthday,” Leo told his half-brother. “That’s all so far today,” he finished before taking a bite of his eggs.

“...I am actually surprised you know what trains are,” the Crown Prince giggled. “I just figured you thought they were things to put in your mouth like a baby.”

Leo’s face turned red, but he didn’t say anything, just went back to eating his eggs. Isabella, however, threw a look to Nathan suggesting he reprimand Baby Nate.

Nathan gave Isabella a blank look, before turning to his eldest son. “Leo isn’t a baby anymore, he actually knows about trains, isn’t that right Leo?”

“Yes I do, father,” Leo said with proudly. “I know that the conductor helps move the train along the tracks and other things about them too.”

“...Do you know the difference between coal and steam driven engines?” Nathan asked Leo, knowing that he taught him the distinction once before.

Leo nodded his head. “It is the different fuel that helps the train move. Some steam trains use wood and a coal train engine uses coal, obviously,” he playfully taunted.

“That’s great. I have been playing with dinosaurs. Do you like dinosaurs, Leo?” Baby Nate asked.

“Of course,” Leo smiled thinking Baby Nate was being friendly to him.

“That’s good. Have you ever seen any movies about dinosaurs?” Baby Nate posed with a smirk. “I have a few on my tablet if you and Diana ever want to watch. Ever seen Carnosaur? My favorite one is Carnosaur 4: Raptor.”

Nathan practically choked on his food. “Does your mother know that you watch that?”

Baby Nate scoffed at that. “It’s just a movie, father. I know that it’s not real...what do you think I am, stupid or something?”

“I don’t think I want to watch that, Nathan. I don’t think Diana would either,” Leo said seeing his father’s reaction to Baby Nate.

Isabella just shook her head at Baby Nate’s disrespect to his father. It’s not my place to reprimand him, she thought.

“Why not Leo, are you chicken?” the Crown Prince asked with a chuckle, flapping his arms. “I should put some buffalo on you so you can be buffalo chicken.”

“No, no I’m not,” Leo shot back. “I just don’t want to watch it, Nathan.”

“Yeah, because you are a sissy boy. But that’s ok, I can be man enough for both of us, especially when I am Emperor of Ghant. Then I can do the manly things and you can run my trains for me,” Baby Nate giggled.

“Shut up, Nathan!” Leo shouted at his half-brother. “Why are you so mean all the time?”

“Leo, it’s not worth it, honey,” Isabella told her son. She hit Papa Nate with her elbow and whispered, “Are you going to say anything to him?”

“Stop antagonizing your brother, or I will tell your mother,” Nathan insisted firmly to his eldest son.

“Are you going to say anything to him?” Baby Nate mocked Isabella. “You presume to insinuate command of my father the Emperor?” When the Empress of Ghant entered the room in a fine court dress, Baby Nate smiled. “Hello mommy...we were just talking about trains.”

“That’s wonderful, dear,” Sophia smiled. “Such a sweet boy.”

Isabella bit her tongue when she saw Sophia enter the hall. Probably for the best. It would only add to the awful day today has proven to been,, she thought. “Good morning, Sophia,” she said to be polite.

“Good morning, Isabella,” Sophia countered. Meanwhile, Princesses Sara and Valerie came bouncing in dresses of their own and took up seats next to Diana, each one planting a kiss on either of her cheeks. Baby Nate remained conspicuously quiet.

Diana’s smile grew when her half-sisters entered and grew even larger when they sat next to her. “How are you girls this morning?” Isabella asked the two princesses.

“Good,” Sara commented softly.

“Same...brother won’t let me watch Carnosaur though, because he says it isn’t appropriate for children,” Valerie mused softly.

“Carnosaur isn’t, Valerie,” Sara consoled her.

“That’s very astute of him,” Isabella said to the girls.

“Leo showed me the train toys today,” Diana told Sara and Valerie. “They moved so fast,” she continued in amazement. “He heard mommy crying so he came and got me to show me them,” she said completely oblivious to the situation, causing Isabella to shake slightly.

“We have a new dollhouse, new tea party set and new dresses. You want to come play after breakfast?” Sara asked Diana. Baby Nate had a look of irritation, but said nothing.

“Yes,” Diana smiled and clapped her hands. “Can I mommy?”

“Of course, darling,” Isabella patted her daughter on the head.

“Son,” Sophia called out to Baby Nate, “remember to mind your manners. No tablets at the table.”

“Yes, mother,” the Crown Prince responded as he tucked it away. Prince John came into the room then and took a seat next to Leo, which also annoyed him, but alas he said nothing.

Rude little shit. At least it appears that he is learning proper manners, Isabella thought.

“Morning, brother,” Leo smiled to John after taking one last bite of his eggs.

“Morning. The eggs are quite good,” John observed, sagely.

“Many things are good this morning,” Baby Nate said with a sheepish grin, directed at Isabella, while he threw some popcorn in his mouth.

Isabella looked at Baby Nate. “Are they?” she asked.

“Why are you eating popcorn for breakfast?” Diana asked Baby Nate curiously.

“Yeah, everyone here is happy, healthy and safe,” the Crown Prince mused. “Popcorn because what I was watching on my tablet was pretty intense, it was like a movie, sweet sister” he shrugged.

Isabella stared at the little Crown Prince. “Yes...I suppose that we are,” she said.

“What movie is it, Natey?” Diana asked her half-brother.

Baby Nate glanced at his mother and winced, before turning back to Diana. “...Adventures of Ghantboy,” he lied.

“Can I watch it with you, Natey? Please,” Diana innocently asked Baby Nate.

“...Yeah, I suppose you can, if you would like,” the Crown Prince muttered in response. Of course, now I will actually have to put on Adventures of Ghantboy...

Diana quickly stood, grabbing her plate and shuffled along over to Baby Nate, sitting down next to him. “I never seen this before, brother,” she smiled to him while Isabella watched cautiously from the other side of the table, her eyes fixed on both her children.

“Of course you haven’t.” Taking the tablet into his lap under the table, he sighed and put on Adventures of Ghantboy, and one of the more child appropriate episodes at that. “Here,” he said as he got up from his seat to sit closer to Isabella...knowing that she would want to know for sure that it was what he said it was, and not Carnosaur. Especially since Sara and Valerie were both looking at him as well.

Isabella stood up to fill her glass with coffee, curiously sneaking a look to Baby Nate’s tablet. She’d seen the show before and knew that at times it wasn’t necessarily appropriate for children, but she didn’t feel like putting up a fight today.

“Who’s that girl?” Diana pointed at the screen.

“That’s Ghantgirl,” Baby Nate told her. “A friend of Ghantboy’s that often gets him into trouble, since he does things for her that put himself at risk. Think of it like a knight fighting a dragon to save a princess.”

“Like me! Because I’m a princess,” Diana smiled to Sara and Valerie, then her mother.

“Yeah, like you,” he said back, somewhat blankly as the show began to play. “You won’t have to worry about any dragons though, since they are gone.”

“Good, they look scary,” Diana said about dragons.

“Dragons never existed,” Leo said outloud. “Isn’t that right, daddy?” he asked his father.

“Some say they didn’t, others say they did,” Papa Nate answered. “Some say that they still exist, deep under the earth in lairs where they sleep until someone disturbs them and makes them wake up.”

“And then it will be up to brave men like me to destroy them,” Baby Nate said with a smile.

“But Uncle Jason told me that there was no such thing as dragons,” Leo said. “Good luck destroying them,” he laughed.

“Your Uncle says lots of things, sweetheart,” Isabelle broke out a small laugh.

“Do you want dragons to have been real, or in hiding today?” the Emperor asked Leo.

“Neither,” Leo said. “They would have hurt too many people if they were real, daddy.”

Baby Nate snorted. “How are there supposed to be any heroes if there isn’t anything for them to prove their heroism with?”

“Well…” Leo was puzzled. “What about good guys beating the bad guys?” he said back to Baby Nate. “Uncle tells me my great-grandfather was a hero and he fought bad guys.”

“There’s no such thing as bad guys,” the Crown Prince countered. “Just guys that disagree.”

“And there’s no such thing as dragons,” Leo told him, unsure of what to say back.

“...You’re just scared of them aren’t you?” Baby Nate asked pointedly.

“No!” Leo shouted, causing his mother to reprimand him. “Why would I be afraid of fake things?”

“Leo,” Isabella snapped at her son. “Don’t yell at your brother.”

“Yeah, don’t yell,” the Crown Prince seconded, smugly. “Especially to your superiors.”

Leo narrowed his eyes at Baby Nate and opened his mouth before his mother spoke before he had the chance.

“I think that’s enough breakfast, don’t you think so, Leo?” Isabella said nodding her head to Leo.

“Sure, mommy,” Leo told her, still looking at Baby Nate.

“Yeah, that’s what I thought,” the Crown Prince said triumphantly. “Diana, what do you think about the penguins? Aren’t they funny?” he asked her about the episode.

“They very cute, Natey,” Diana laughed.

“Come Leo,” Isabella told her son as she stood up. “Diana, would you like to stay with your brothers and sisters?” she asked her daughter, causing Diana to nod.

“Sophia, is it alright if she stays with them for a bit?” Isabella asked the Empress.

The Empress, reviewing some government papers, responded by saying, “of course, the girls did talk about playing in their room. I think that would be good.”

“No boys allowed,” Valerie said with a look towards the Crown Prince.

“Yeah, no boys allowed,” Diana stuck her tongue out at Baby Nate with a laugh. “Bye mommy,” she said before Isabella left the room with Leo, as he pouted his way through the door.

Sara and Valerie reached out to take Diana’s hands, while John, ever quiet, snuck out and followed Leo and Isabella.

“Leo, I thought we talked about yelling out like that,” Isabella told her son. “It needs to stop.”

“I hate him,” Leo said. “He’s always mean to me and I never did anything to him,” he continued saying, neither of them noticing John leave the hall.

“No, you don’t. Don’t say that,” Isabella insisted to Leo.

“Maybe he is mean because he is insecure,” John said, to no one in particular.

“Oh, John,” Isabella said startled. “I didn’t see you there.”

“What...is he afraid of me, brother?” Leo asked John.

“No. I think he is afraid of being like father,” the elder prince mused sadly.

“Why don’t I leave you two to have some fun,” Isabella smiled to the boys.

“What’s wrong with father?” Leo asked seeking clarity.

“...He’s casual,” John shrugged. “We should go play though, don’t you think?”

“Sure,” Leo’s eyes lit up. “Want to go play video games in my room?”

“Yeah, that sounds good,” John agreed. “Let’s do that.”

by **Lacus Magni** » Mon Jan 11, 2016 1:19 pm

Palace of Augustus
Castellum ab Alba, Latium
12 March 2022 CE

“What is this shit?” Jason asked the Senate Leadership. “Do you think this bill will pass?”

“Uhh, well it will likely pass, Sir,” Tribune Istrati told the Emperor. “And…

“Bullfuckingshit it will,” the Latin Emperor let out. “Look at the spending. It’s asinine. It’s unacceptable.”

“Sir,” the Consul began. “It’s not always about the money. Look at all the people this law will help. Healthcare for all.”

“And you reap the rewards for it now, only to leave me and some other poor sap to pick up the pieces when you bankrupt this state,” Jason snapped at her.

“I think that’s going a bit far,” Lepera told Jason Augustus. “We’ve outlined tax increases in order to pay for this.”

“Absolutely not,” Jason flatly stated.

“Well it is going to pass,” Tribune Aeaca boldly told the Emperor.

Jason stood up from his desk and looked the bold, young Tribune in the eyes. “Well…I will veto it,” he said to strike fear in her eyes. “Bring me something I can sign and I’d be more than happy to, Flavia,” he then said to the Consul.

“This is a mistake, sir,” Consul Lepera said. “Many people will continue to be without affordable healthcare if this doesn’t earn assent.”

“Just work with us,” Tribune Istrati told the Emperor.

Jason’s temper was reaching it’s boiling point as each second passed. Since the Liberals took the Senate, he had been battling their agenda at every turn, causing a widening gap between him and the new Leadership. “Again, bring me something signable and I’m more than happy to sign it. Lower the spending,” he said while being cut off by Tribune Aeaca again, causing Jason to sigh and look at his watch. “Sorry, I have another meeting. Tomorrow?”

The Consul and three Tribunes of the leadership nodded and exited the room, followed by his secretary entering the room. “Sir, your next appointment is waiting for you in the Atrium Rufus,” she told the Emperor.

Jason nodded and exited the room, as he departed for his appointment in the Palace’s atrium garden.

Lady Marsella Atmos was the recent appointee to be Ghant’s LOTA delegate. She sat in the Atrium Rufus, reading a book on Greek culture...in Greek. She was said to be a great beauty, standing at roughly 5’8’’, with skin the color of dark creme, long and loose raven hair, and coffee colored eyes. She was curvaceous and full-figured, with an ample bust and shapely fundament, that she kept concealed in a white one-piece shoulderless business dress.

Her background was an interesting one as well. Her father was Lord Benfri Atmos, from the Province of Nathia, while her mother was a Latin aristocrat from Iopea, whose father was Greco-Latin, and whose mother was Arabic...among other things on both accounts. Marsella had been a friend of both Empress Sophia and Princess Cassandra, and did well in the Foreign Relations program at the University of Ghish, having earned her BA, MA, and PhD there. Now she was thirty-six, and in charge of Ghantish interests within LOTA, residing now in Castellum.

The Emperor moved swiftly through the halls in order to reach the Atrium. Rushing past the many paintings and statues, he looked once more at his watch, just as he reached the door leading to the Atrium. The Atrium Rufus was a large room, one which rarely held many meetings, but elegant as any other in the Palace. Situated on the west end of the structure, it overlooked the expansive gardens, straddling both inside and outside of it.

Jason took a quick moment to catch his breath and adjusted his suit, then opened to door. “My Lady,” he courteously said upon his entrance with his arms extended pointing to Lady Marsella. “I hope you weren’t waiting too long by yourself?”

Marsella put the book down and grinned, saying, “Not too long Your Majesty, given the company of quality reading. I trust that the day finds you well?”

“Oh, nothing out of the ordinary. The usual bickering Senators,” Jason grinned right back, hoping his admiration of Marsella’s beauty wasn’t to obvious at the moment. “May I ask what you were reading?” he asked as he unbuttoned his suit jacket and sat down on one of the couches across from her.

“The Theogony, in Greek, if you must know your Majesty,” Marsella answered politely. “I find the theme of powerful entities clashing for supremacy not unlike some of our own international politics. I was just reading the following excerpt,” she said, before reading it in Greek. “Af̱tós o ánthro̱pos eínai to kalýtero pou vlépei o ídios ti̱n alí̱theia. Kaló eínai ki af̱tós pou akoúei sofés symvoulés. Allá poios den eínai oúte synetó oúte o ídios diatetheiménos na analogistoún ti̱ sofía eínai den axízei éna kalamáki.” (That man is best who sees the truth himself. Good too is he who listens to wise counsel. But who is neither wise himself nor willing to ponder wisdom is not worth a straw.)

“A fine read, My Lady,” Jason smiled politely. If only the Senate would be good and take my wise counsel, he thought to himself, now seated comfortably with what he deemed a great view of Lady Marsella. “One of my father’s favorites, in fact.”

“Your father was a good man and true,” Marsella nodded politely. “Your nephew Leo is like him in some ways, if you don’t me saying, your Majesty. Intelligent, kind and thoughtful. Your sister has done much to help bring Ghant into the LOTA fold, and it is my hope that you see, in your wisdom, the strategic, political and economic benefits of our presence therein.”

“He certainly was,” Jason agreed. “And who says that wasn’t why I sent her to Ghant?” he joked with the Ghantish Ambassador. “But yes, I can say with certainty that I’m pleased with the how things have unfolded and the abundance of benefits this relationship presents our peoples. And please, call me Jason,” he finished with a great smile.

“Yes, of course...Jason,” Marsella inclined her head politely. “Dare I ask, how familiar are you with Ghantish politics?”

“I try and keep up with things all over the world as best I can, but I’m afraid my personal knowledge probably isn’t as great as your’s is of Latin politics,” Jason replied. “It is my understanding, however, that the Empress Sophia holds a great deal of sway, is that correct?”

“This is correct,” Marsella elucidated. “Nathan has always been disinterested in politics, to the degree that Sophia exercises the functions of the throne. Nathan merely enjoys the fruits, if you will.”

“I can’t say that isn’t surprising,” Jason said with a sly look. “Don’t get me wrong, my relationship with my brother-in-law is to the point where I consider us friends, but it’s always seemed he’s had his interests lie elsewhere. Perhaps because he took the throne at such a young age,” he continued. “Though, Sophia seems capable.”

“That’s some of it,” she nodded in agreement. “I have known him for over twenty years, and I know that for the most part, he wants to have some agency over his life and agenda aside from it. Sophia is capable enough, and she...tolerates his...activities, in any event.”

“Well, she is perhaps the most tolerant and patient woman on the face of the earth then,” Jason complimented the Empress. “Lord knows how my wife would react if I tried to take another wife,” he chucked, though not acknowledging his similar extramarital activities.

“Well, because of Regere Coniugum, Ghant is a Diarchy, where the Empress has all the same powers and privileges as the Emperor, therefore also being Head of State in conjunction with him, for as long as they are married. Therefore, it behooves Sophia to deal with it, because she wouldn’t divorce him. If she did, she wouldn’t be Empress anymore,” Marsella explained. “Nathan knows this, and dare I say, takes advantage of it.”

“A fair point, though that doesn’t change how difficult it must be for her not to act emotionally to his...umm dealings,” Jason replied. “Say, can I get you anything? Food, drink, miscellaneous?” he grinned.

Not that she doesn’t have a few of her own...with other women of course. “She is certainly as well disciplined a woman as I have ever seen,” Marsella responded, shifting in her seat. “Some tea would do nicely, if it isn’t too much trouble.”

“Certainly,” the Emperor nodded and directed a servant of her drink. “And what of your discipline?” he boldly asked Lady Marsella.

The inquiry made the ambassador raise an eyebrow. “Quite strong, considering my field. The position is such that one almost requires that, wouldn’t you agree?”

“I would,” Jason grinned. “Having a strong mind and will is a must in your field. And especially mine,” he said as a servant brought out Marsella’s tea and coffee for the Emperor. He nodded and grabbed the tea, handing it to Marsella.

“Thank you,” she said as she took the tea glass. “Wisdom as well, I would be remiss to not mention. Although such things as that come with time, and age.” Marsella took a sip of the tea, and commented, “it is quite good,” with a grin.

“Ah yes, wisdom. My father always hammered home how important that was, among other things,” Jason smiled. “I’m glad you like it,” he said of the tea. “Only the best for my guests, because you certainly won’t find tea like that anywhere else in the city.”

“I shall consider myself fortunate, then,” Marsella smiled. “Now, I take it you are aware of Ghant’s policy on decolonization and anti-imperialism?” she asked gently. “It is my duty to ask, after all, especially since the Empress wants LOTA to promulgate recognition for the rights of indigenous peoples to self-govern.”

“I am,” Jason stated as he placed his coffee down on the side table and leaned back in his couch. “The Latin government holds the rights of indigenous peoples in high regard and, at least in my opinion, has respected and allowed for self-governing and determination,” he said as if he was reading from a script and fiddling with his wedding ring.

“I see,” Marsella responded with a blank expression while drinking her tea, as if taking mental notes. “And does your government have a timetable for referenda regarding the legal, sovereign status of foreign, non-Latin territories?”

“There currently aren’t any planned referenda,” Jason told her, still fiddling with his ring. “In essence, my Landder, as well as Sellasian holdings self-govern already via Senatorial acts. And Port Royale, as a Crown Dependency is all but independent, though relies on the protection of the Crown,” he continued with his script, somewhat getting lost for a moment while looking at Lady Marsella. “Though, if one of the aforementioned governments came forward with a proposed referendum, we would work together with them on a viable and fair discourse,” the Emperor finished snapping out of his momentary trance.

“This is good,” the Ghantish delegate grinned as she reached into a manilla folder in front of her, pulling out a piece of paper. “Be that as it may, why don’t you take a look that this proposed charter from my government, and tell me if your government would support it, should it be presented to LOTA.” Marsella handed the Latin Emperor the piece of paper.

Jason Augustus took the piece of paper and quickly read it over and then looked upon Marsella. “My Lady,” he began after his readthrough. “First and foremost, as you know the LOTA is a military alliance, one existing between nations that value their national sovereignty more than most. While I’d like some time to speak with my cabinet before giving you a definite answer, I can tell you that some will see this as a grab at their national sovereignty,” he told her. “Iin Latium we are working on growing oversea territorial representation in Castellum, I know that our friends in Kartika and even Urceopolis have incorporated many of these territories into their states proper, with full rights.”

“Yes, regardless of the wishes of the local populations,” Marsella pointed out. “In any case, the Empress wanted me to pass this along, so I have. Ghant has, for the longest time, stood along in its opposition to imperialism and neocolonialism, and it was not in my place to question the Empress’s directive. Rather, I saw it through, and here it is, so you know where Ghant stands on the matter. LOTA is, as you say, a military alliance, and a powerful one at that. One capable of projecting itself on the world stage. What better vehicle to pursue these goals than this?”

“These people benefit a great deal from being a part of our economies, I might add,” Jason Augustus said as he continued to manipulate his ring. “But I understand the Empress’s concern and know you are simply doing your job,” he shot a friendly smile to her and then looked to the open doors leading to the outer area of the Atrium. “And I can’t knock someone for attempting something bold like this.”

Marsella cleared her throat. “The Empress merely believes that those people should determine that for themselves. As you say, though, I am merely the messenger, although if I may say so myself, fortune does favor the bold, does it not?”

“So they say,” the Emperor grinned. “Would you care to take this conversation to terrace? Though it is already a particular beautiful day, I’m sure your presence would only add to it’s beauty.”

The Emperor’s compliments left her unfazed, although she did raise an eyebrow. “Not at all,” she said. “You lead the way, and I shall follow.”

Jason rose and walked to the terrace doors and held it open for Marsella, now feeling the soft springtime breeze run across him. The terrace went forward nearly 30 feet and overlooked the gardens and down to the Via Appia with a view of the currently being repaired Senate building. “Quite the view, isn’t it?”

Marsella followed the Latin Emperor through the terrace doors and took in the view. “Yes, one could certainly say that,” she mused softly. “And such lovely weather for this time of year.”

The Emperor continued forward and leaned on the stone barrier of the terrace. “That it is. Springtime is always a nice time of year in Castellum, though I prefer the Constantinopolitan spring myself,” he said attempting to survey Marsella. “But how are you finding your stay so far?”

“Well enough,” Marsella answered candidly. “Given that I speak the languages found here, and that my mother is Latin, it isn’t very hard to make myself accustomed to, although Castellum strikes me as a far larger and more conservative city compared to Ghish.”

“That’s great to hear,” the Emperor replied. “Yes, I’d agree with that. Sorrentia is very conservative as a whole, they value their traditions here. Much more so than the rest of the Empire,” he went on. “Did you ever visit growing up, I’m told your uncle is Lord of Kepetta?”

“Yes, that is correct,” she answered with a faint smile. “We did on several occasions during the winter months. My mother is something of a snowbird you see, finding the weather more agreeable in Iopea then in Ghant during those times of the year.”

“That’s not surprising,” Jason smiled. “My sister has told me the winters in Ghant are far different than what we are used to here. How was it your parents met?” he inquired.

It took a moment for Marsella to recall. “My grandfather and his family took a trip to the Latin Empire in the early 80s during the winter, and my father chanced upon my mother that way. She was beautiful, but also possessed lineaged that my father’s family, and other Ghantish nobles, abhorred. He suffered ridicule and scorn for his decision to marry her, and suffered greatly for it.”

“And what lineage would that be, if you don’t mind my probing,” Jason said as he inched closer to her. Maybe I should have read up more on the nobles growing up, he thought.

“...My grandmother was Arab, among other things, and my grandfather was Greco-Latin...among other things,” she told him, allowing herself to chuckle a bit. “Not exactly standard Ghantish fare.”

“Not exactly standard by many,” Jason said sharing in laughter. “But the heart wants what the heart wants and nobody should have faulted your father for that.”

“...I suppose so, Jason,” Marsella sighed gently. “I suppose so. Things turned out alright, I believe.”

“You don’t sound so convinced,” the Emperor smiled slightly, now standing next to Marsella.

“Whether or not I am convinced is irrelevant...ultimately, he made a choice, and as they say in Ghant, men shall be remembered by the fruit they bear. It makes me wonder sort of fruit am I, although in truth I never have enough time to figure that out. I tend to focus on things that I can solve,” Marsella explained.

“Well, Lady Marsella Atmos,” Jason began while slowly moving his hand to her back. “Regardless of what people may say of your father’s decisions, you are here because of them. And it seems you managed to make quite the career for yourself from those fruits.”

“I have tried...I just wanted more then the noblelady’s life,” she shrugged in response. “I wanted to be a difference maker.”

“Everyone wants to make a difference, to leave their mark,” the Emperor attempted to comfort her as he softly ran his hand across her back. “From my position, I see it all the time. And not that you asked, but my suggestion is to keep trying,” he said. “My father always believed that if you kept trying and did good by your fellow man, that good things would happen. And he was a much wiser man than I could ever hope to be.”

“...That’s an interesting perspective,” Marsella commented, not unaware of the Emperor’s hand running across her back. “You are right, of course. Such is the way of things where nations are concerned.”

Not that I believe that, Jason thought as he nodded along. “Is it that you, perhaps, don’t believe in the directives you are asked to carry out?” he probed further, still caressing her back and looking into her eyes.

“I believe in furthering the objectives of my country as far as LOTA is concerned,” she answered bluntly, although not impolitely. “Most people in Ghant believe what the Empress believes, for one reason or another. I find them to be quite noble. Ghantar mean well, and in a world filled with peril, that’s reassuring.”

“I was speaking more broadly,” Jason smiled, with a last brush of his hand on her back before slowly removing it. “And forgive me if it seemed that I was suggesting ill of your intentions. On the contrary, you strike me as one that has a good...heart,” he paused ever so slightly and plenty of other good things, he thought. “...and noble intentions.”

“Nothing to be forgiven for. I never doubted for a moment that you thought ill of my intentions. I merely wish to serve ably,” Marsella elucidated, observing the hand leaving her back. “Meaning well and following that up with action is the best that anyone can do.”

“And if the Empress ever asked, I would be able to say that you have been more than able in your service of Ghant, Marsella,” Jason said with a softer change in his tone of voice. He looked at her, thought his eyes wandered slightly to her distracting figure.

...Which didn’t go unnoticed to the ambassador. “Dare I ask, Jason, I had a person request, from the Emperor himself, if I might encumber you with it.”

Jason caught himself and looked up at Marsella. “Please share,” he nodded to her.

“He would like to return to Castellum with his children, to give them a tour of the city and so that Prince Leo and Princess Diana can see their Latin family...your family. Also, the Emperor requested some information on a certain doctor by the name of...Antonia Vera,” she explained. “I hope this isn’t too much trouble, considering how busy you are…”

The Emperor nodded as Marsella spoke, eyes still drifting. “I would be more than happy to set something up for the Emperor and children, it’s been some time since the last visit. And Vera, was it? I’ll have someone reach out,” he replied before pausing as he often has the Ambassador’s presence. “Do...do you see the children ever?”

“...Perhaps too much, yes,” she allowed herself to grin. “The palace is a...lively place of late, which would be putting it lightly. It seems to be filling with children.”

“Well, it’s no secret that Nathan likes to enjoy himself,” Jason laughed while placing his hand behind Marsella’s back once more.

“...So I have been told, although from what I have gathered, it conflicts him. Nathan is like a gambler, who does it knowing that he shouldn’t, yet somehow seems to win in spite of that,” Marsella explained. “Having said that, your nephew is quite the boy. Intelligent, kind and thoughtful, I believe he shall go on to accomplish great things. You should be proud of your sister for raising such a pleasant child.”

“That’s kind of you to say. Bella was always the thoughtful one growing up, much more so than I. But I’m glad the boy is doing his name sake justice so far,” he smiled. “Do you have a family of your own?” he asked as his hand moved lower.

“Never married, never any children,” she told him with a soft sigh. “I am thirty-six, so there is still time for one, maybe two. I never wanted that many anyway. I was always too busy for such commitments.” she didn’t respond to the hand, but knew where it was.

Maybe we can change that, the Emperor thought. “Married to your work then?” he smiled to her. “You never know what surprises might come your way, Marsella,” obviously moving his hand along her backside.

“...You could say that. Also, I have learned that life is full of surprises. One should learn to take them as they come,” Marsella mused with a grin.

“One should,” he said as he wrapped his hand around her waist and slowly moved in to kiss her, waiting for her to meet him.

That completely took Marsella off-guard, finding it totally unexpected. “...Jason,” she said with a hand against his chest. “...What are you doing?”

Jason quickly pulled his head back and released her. Did I completely misread that? he thought. “Taking a surprise as it came, Marsella,” he attempted to explain. “I cannot lie and say that I don’t find you to be utterly breathtaking, not only in beauty but in your demeanor and candor. I know you are not oblivious to the fact that it has been nearly intoxicating to me.”

Marsella examined his face stoically, as if she were playing poker, her eyes distant. “Some surprises are better prepared for than others, Jason. You flatter me, truly, although I wonder how often you say this to other women.” Taking a deep breath, she looked around the pavilion before continuing. “The Emperor of Ghant has made passes at me before, and while such attention is flattering, I have a reputation to maintain. I didn’t want to become the Emperor’s whore,” she said firmly. I wouldn’t want to become yours either. Having said that,” she continued. “I do find you to be attractive, and intriguing enough to get to know better, so perhaps there is a door at the end of a carpet, so to speak. But a walk is required to reach it,” she smirked.

“How often do I say that to other women?” Jason Augustus asked rhetorically while looking her in the eyes. “Only once. And it was many many years ago,” he started thinking of his past. “As for Nathan, I’m not surprised, I am just as aware as you how many women he keeps around for such things. But you...I know you are the type of woman that isn’t easily tossed aside. So, please forgive my forwardness, My Lady. It is simply unbecoming of an Emperor,” he said displaying an apology. “And I will sing for my supper, Marsella.”

“What of the Empress Sophie?” Marsella wondered. “Dare I ask, anyway, to what degree she...enjoys your company, or potentially lacking therein.”

“There are things a ruler must do, things we are expected to do,” he said turning his head away ever so slightly. “If it were up to me…I would have never remarried. But it was ultimately a decision I made based on what was best for my family, for my dynasty. I didn’t have the luxury of making the selfish choice. Sophie is a beautiful and caring woman, and maybe if our marriage had taken place at a later date things would be different. But they aren’t,” he told her, now facing her again.

“So you are lonely then?” she asked him with a sympathetic look. “For that I am sorry, Jason. That must be difficult.”

“Since that time...I have enjoyed the company of others. I’m sure, of course, you are aware of rumors that been have circulated by the media. And my wife, it is through no fault of her own…” he continued. “For as long as I can remember, all I wanted was the Throne. But, it is just one of the burdens that comes with it.”

“...Is there anyone that you are seeing right now, if you don’t mind me asking?” While Marsella felt sorry for him and wouldn’t rule out a discreet, private relationship after a few dates and whatnot, she wanted to make sure that he wasn’t bullshiting her for the sake of taking advantage of her sympathy.

“No,” Jason abruptly replied. “I won’t lie and tell you that I don’t receive visitors from time to time, but I am not romantically involved,” he attempted to explain.

Marsella bit her lip before nodding. “...I understand. That is very unfortunate, your circumstances. Thinking for a moment, she continued. “Perhaps you would like to invite me out to dinner to discuss matters of state...and personal things, in greater detail,” she said with a small smile.

“I’d very much like that,” Jason smiled. “I’m sure we could arrange something soon, should you like and your schedule permit,” he said softly resting his hand near hers.

“Of course, that sounds ideal.” Marsella patthis hand with hers, and kissed him on either cheek. “Thank you for talking to me, and as always, I await your pleasure.” Lady Atmos bowed slightly and inclined her head, before motioning to depart the Emperor’s company.

“No, thank you, Lady Marsella,” Jason smiled as he watched her exit the Atrium. “I’ll be in touch.” Not exactly as I planned, but that went alright, he thought, turning back around to face the gardens, seeing his son Constantine playing with his dog off in the distance.

“Dominus,” a voice rang out. Jason turned around to see a guard who must have entered when Marsella exited. “Your next appointment is ready. Shall I send them in?” he said causing the Emperor to look at him puzzled. “Thomas Pompilius, Dominus,” he confirmed.

“Oh, yes of course, show him in,” Jason told the guard, his mind still distracted at the thought of Lady Marsella.

IIwiki Admin · by **Ghant** » Mon Jan 11, 2016 1:22 pm

Palace of Augustus
Castellum ab Alba, Latium
29 April 2022

“...That’s stupid,” Princess Blanche said with folded arms. Her older half-sister Valerie, otherwise known as Val, was telling her about her favorite dollhouse. “Why would you want to have a deluxe washroom at the expense of a bigger sitting room?”

“Because think of all the extra room you have to get ready for things!” Val insisted. The two, while close, had differing opinions on fashion...Blanche was far more practical, and had a keener edge than Val. Sara sat and listened, while Diana was also present with their governess, Lady Argi Daga, in their own sedan that made its approach to the Palace in Castellum. The Crown Prince, John and Leo were in another with the Emperor, while Isabella and the Empress were in another still. Guards were in each, to keep the peace.

As the Palace awaited the arrival of it’s guests, a number of servants and palatial employees ran around the grounds and Palatine Hill to tidy up the finer touches, while Jason Augustus looked upon it from a window. The Hill, known for its ancient history, had always been the home of the Latin Emperors while in the city, and today was engulfed by the expansive complex. Latins had the tendency to overdress the city when receiving foreign dignitaries, and today was no different.

As Jason looked down to the Via Appia, which lead to the Hill, he saw the streets adorned in various banners, both in honor of the Monarchy, but also recognizing their important guests. The Palace gate at the base of the Hill was guarded by Praetorians, as it usually was, though today they were dressed in ancient Latin military uniforms, and their iconic purple capes. 2022 and we still dress the city up to impress like we’re puffing our chest to frighten a barbarian chieftain, Jason thought before he walked down the main staircase to meet his wife, Sophie, his eldest child, Maria standing next to Constantine, Michael and the youngest, Selene.

In the main sedan, the Emperor yawned lazily as he waited for the opportunity to emerge. When the time finally came, he stepped out, and helped Empress Sophia out, who was with child and wearing a comfortable white floor length gown that left her arms bare. Then came Isabella. Nathan, true to tradition was dressed in a simple set of black tunic and slacks with gold buttons and white shoes. The next sedan featured the boys, of which the Crown Prince emerged in an extravagant court uniform, cape and all, followed by his more modestly dressed brother John, and then Leo. The girls were next, dressed in little gowns of their own with sashes to boot.

The herald did as he usually would by announcing the Ghantish guests upon their appearance. At this point, the Latin hosts emerged from inside the Palace to greet them. Jason, donning his typical attire of a normal looking yet custom suit, this time wearing a laurel wreath crown upon his head, and his wife approached Nathan and Sophia first. “Welcome back,” Jason said with a smile to Nathan. “And greetings to you, Your Majesty,” he directed to Sophia. “Castellum is honored by your presence,” he said politely kissing her hand.

“Thank you,” Nathan said as he inclined his head and planted a kiss on the back of Sophie’s hand. “Undiminished by time I see.”

The Empress of Ghant smiled and did a little curtsey, limited by being eight months along. “You are very kind to say, Your Majesty.” Gesturing to the children, she introduced them. “My children, Crown Prince Nathan, Prince John, Princess Imperial Sara, Princess Valerie,” then with a smile that belied a feigned interest, she introduced, “Leo, Diana, and Blanche.” the girls all did a curtsey, while the boys bowed. The Crown Prince approached Jason and looked up at him, with a smirk.

“Very nice to meet you all,” Jason said with Sophie to his side, noticing Isabella off to the back with Leo and Diana, taking notice of the Crown Prince’s smirk. “I’d like to introduce you to my oldest, Maria, whom I believe only His Majesty had the opportunity to meet prior,” he said as the ever-growing Maria stepped forward.

“And these are our children,” Sophie smiled, pretending to ignore Jason’s continued favoritism towards Maria. “Our oldest, Constantine, Michael and the little lady, Selene,” she finished as the Latin children looked curiously to their Ghantish counterparts.

“And where is my lovely sister,” Jason joked to goad Isabella and her children forward.

Isabella glided forward, though not stepping past Sophia and her children. “Hello, brother. I trust everything is well,” she said to which he nodded.

“And this must be my nephew, Leo, and niece, Diana,” he said squatting down to their eye level, causing Diana to poke at his laurel crown. “Bold little girl,” he laughed and patted them on the head. “Shall we?” he said standing up and motioning to the Palace door.

“Of course,” Nathan said in response as he and his party began their approach to the Palace door, but not before he bowed before Maria and kissed the back of her hand, after which the Crown Prince did the same, as well as to Empress Sophie.

“Dare I say, for a lady of fifteen, you look a woman grown,” Baby Nate commented. “What they say of Castellum containing treasures must be true.”

Maria’s face turned red. While it wasn’t that people haven’t said similar things to her before, the fact that it came from a little boy and a Prince caused for a different reaction. “That’s kind of you to say, Your Highness,” she said with a shy smile to Baby Nate as the rather large group entered the Palace doors.

“I understand your father wanted you all to have a tour of the city?” Sophie said to the children once inside the Palace.

“That is correct,” Sara nodded. “For what better city to see in such a lovely time of year?”

The Crown Prince sniggered. “Leo here has an interest in the city’s cisterns.”

Blanche gave her signature look...the one that consisted of her mouth shifting to either side of her face in a coy smirk. “His actual interest is in trains...Bebe has a thing for cisterns but is too proud to admit it.” Of all the things that Blanche took pride of in her life, coming up with the nickname Bebe for her eldest half-brother took the cake. She knew French from her mother, Dominique of Vannois, and knew that bebe meant ‘baby’ in that language. Baby Nate was already in vogue as his nickname, but Bebe was a natural fit...even though he absolutely despised it. Not that she minded, though.

Leo looked at his older half-brother with disgust, though thankfully Blanche spoke up first causing him to laugh, which Jason noticed. “Oh? The Crown Prince is a fan of cisterns?” he said feigning obliviousness. “A city this large is bound to have a few that you’d enjoy seeing,” which caused Sophie to squint her eyes at his disrespectfulness to the prince, even though all his children, except for the stoic Constantine, laughed at Blanche’s remark and their father’s follow-up.

The other children laughed as well, although Bebe found none of it funny. “Please forgive my sister’s impudence. While I acknowledge their importance to a city’s proper functioning, I have no vested interest in seeing them firsthand.” Sophia took note of her son’s restraint, and smiled. The disrespect that Jason had shown her son didn’t go unnoticed by her either, and she gave the Latin Emperor a cool look.

“Very well,” Jason replied. “And that’s fortunate because I wouldn’t even know where to begin that tour. Ready to jump right into it?” he asked everyone.

“Forgive my husband’s rudeness,” Sophie whispered to the Ghantish Empress.

Before Empress Sophia could respond, the Crown Prince responded to the Emperor. “We could start with the Palace Cisterns...I am sure they are full of shit.”

“Considering the sheer amount of people that work in this complex, that’s probably very observant of you, Your Highness,” Jason responded. “Though the plan was to begin in the Forum.

“There are many lovely buildings and sights in the forum,” the Princess Maria interjected.

The Ghantish party, having gone quiet after Bebe’s outburst, was ended when he then asked Maria, “what is your favorite building, my princess?” Sophia’s eyes bored into her son for his outburst, and he knew better than to make that mistake again.

“While it may not be the popular opinion, I’ve always enjoyed the buildings that have been preserved as a memorial to the Social War, Your Highness,” Maria told the young Crown Prince. “There aren’t many left anymore because many see them to an eyesore, but the old colosseum or even the ruins of the Senate building are personal favorites of mine.”

“A girl after my own heart,” the Emperor of Ghant mused. “I too favor such memorials. I think that they are very attractive sights indeed, and we should go see them,” he told her with a smile. “Provided your father agrees to show us.”

“I certainly would,” Jason Augustus jumped in to the conversation as a guard directed the group to a certain direction so they could depart.

“Father took me to see them quite often when I was younger, so I know he enjoys them as well,” Maria added again with a smile.

Princess Valerie snuck up beside Prince Constantine, and asked him with a gushing grin, “do you fancy them as well, my Prince?” she asked benignly.

“Princess,” Constantine properly said when he noticed Valerie next to him. “Of the ruins, the colosseum is the most interesting, senate ruins not so much,” he told her. Constantine was a boy who found himself most comfortable in the company of books, often finding himself sneaking into his father’s study to read books written by his grandfather, Olybrius. However, the boy didn’t interact with princesses that often. “And you?” he asked now walking, trying not to be shy.

“...I fancy them if you do,” she responded coyly, which didn’t go unnoticed by her family. “I have never been here before so you shall have to show me the way.”

“Val, always the charmer,” Emperor Nathan sniggered, while Bebe scowled.

“I like colosseums too...does it ever host games?” the Crown Prince asked.

“I’d be honored,” Constantine smiled to Val. “Uhh, it hasn’t hosted any games in years,” he said with a hint of shyness.

“It hasn’t hosted games since before the Social War,” Maria told the group, proud of her knowledge and seemingly attempting to show off before they entered their rides that would take them to the Forum to see the memorials.

“...Don’t you think they should again?” Bebe probed. “They do in northern Ghant.”

“It would probably collapse if you tried to host games there now,” Constantine plainly replied to Baby Nate. “Most of the traditional games like the races take place in the Hippodrome Albae.”

“And don’t forget football games at the new colosseum, brother,” Maria smiled to Constantine and then to the Ghantish Crown Prince.

“What about bloodsport, like gladiator fights?” Bebe continued.

“Son,” Sophia chimed in. “Don’t be ridiculous.”

“Yeah,” Blanche teased, “don’t be ridiculous.”

“Outlawed some time ago,” Jason said with a chuckle to Baby Nate. “By Emperor...well one of them.”

“Emperor Valentinian I in 371,” Constantine finished his father’s sentence. At that point, the group entered their rides and departed for the quick, 5 minute voyage down to the Forum and its monuments.

At their arrival, it was past midday and the sun shined on the old, crumbling colosseum and its near decrepit senate building just across the street. At the nearest entrance to the large party was a plaque to memorialize the monument and the victims of the Social War that read, Here stands the ruins of the ancient Aurelian Colosseum in remembrance of those lost during the bombings in the Battle of Castellum here, and throughout the city. May the Empire stand as strong and long as this now memorialized structure, in Latin and Greek.

“...What happened at the Battle of Castellum?” Val asked ignorantly.

“It was a two month long aerial raid after my grandmother, Diana, was proclaimed Empress following her father’s...death,” Jason said skirting over the more gruesome details of the battle.

“They say that a large crowd was gathered at the colosseum on the first day for races when the bombing began,” Constantine told Val as he stood near her.

“A tragedy,” Sophie Augusta said of the situation.

“Who would do such a thing, and why?” Val continued.

“...Somebody not good, and for ill reasons,” Blanche commented.

“Bad people do bad things,” Prince Michael finally spoke out for the first time.

“It’s not always that simple, brother,” Constantine replied. “I’m sure great-grandfather had to do things people thought were ‘bad’ to win the war.”

“Well he wasn’t off bombing and executing innocent people or anyone that disagreed with him,” Michael shot back.

“No, that’s a fair point,” Constantine nodded conceding the point, while Jason observed his son’s reasoning from a distance, though keeping an eye on Maria as best he could. “Do you have monuments like this back home?” he asked Valerie.

Maria stood next to Papa Nate now. “What do you think of the monument, uncle?” she asked him.

“...More than anyone can keep track of,” Valerie responded.

Sara nodded along, and said, “my sister speaks truly...Ghant is a nation rife with memorials, many to wars that no one remembers, that time has forgotten and that only the most wisened of northern storytellers whisper of.”

“Wars of magnitude that rocked the ancient world, of Demon Kings and dragons and wars against the Gods themselves,” Baby Nate said. “Wars that lasted so long, that no one could remember when they began or why.”

John answered more to the point. “Of the War of the Thistles, the Civil Wars and the Revolution, there are monuments a plenty.”

“That’s unfortunate,” Constantine said to the Ghantish children as he now noticed Princess Sara and how she spoke. “I suppose that it’s a good thing for these memorials then. So that, even in a little way, somebody remembers their honor and sacrifice,” he finished as noticed Leo doddering off in not so far distance looking at the statue of his namesake, Leo X Augustus.

The Emperor of Ghant looked solemnly to Maria, and nodded. “I think it is all quite sad, but such is history. And the better that we know it and remember it for what it was, so it might never be repeated for the rest of time.”

“Truly a shame, Uncle,” Maria said placing her hand on the memorial plaque. “Luckily great-granddad avenged their loss and suffering and we are here to remember them.”

In the meantime, Jason Augustus approached Leo, who was standing at the statue of Leo X Augustus. The statue was an elegant one, depicting Leo X riding atop a horse, donning the appearance of one of this more ancient counterparts. “Your mother tells me you were most excited to see this,” he said of the statue.

“I’ve always wanted to see him,” Leo told his Uncle Jason of Leo X Augustus. “Ever since mother first told me stories of him. How much he helped people, how noble he was, how just he was.”

“He was a great ruler, and an even better grandfather,” Jason replied reminiscing on his memories of his grandfather.

As not to feel left out, both Isabella and Sophie flocked together and centered on Empress Sophia. “The children seem to be getting along well,” Sophie Augusta said to the Ghantish Empress.

“For now,” Sophia said with a subtle grin. “Because we are watching them. It remains to be seen how they get on when they know we are not watching,” she said with a look towards Isabella. “The girls get along better than the boys do...but, isn’t it always like that with girls and boys?”

“It’s certainly true. Constantine seems to be getting along with Valerie, it’s good for him to meet some girls his own age of similar social stature,” the Latin Empress replied looking to her two boys. “And how far along are you now? if you don’t mind me asking,” Sophie asked while Isabella looked over to Leo speaking with Jason.

“Eight months...due next month,” Sophia answered. “Since my first pregnancy, I like to know how many, but not the sex. Hopefully a girl though, seeing as how I have four sons and only two daughters,” she gestured towards Sara and Valerie. “While Diana and Blanche are not mine, I treat them no differently from my own.”

“The four girls seem to get along very well. I’m sure it’s nice to have friends such readily available,” Sophie replied. “And they all seem like lovely young ladies and well mannered...Diana and Blanche too,” she smiled to Isabella. “I wish that Selene had a sister closer in age to her, though Maria treats her well,” she said looking over her shoulder to Maria who seemed to be following Emperor Nathan around the memorial.

“Selena is more than welcome to play with mine...they are all sweet girls that like to play with dolls, dresses and tea parties,” Sophia beamed over the lot.

“I’m sure she’d love that,” Sophie Augusta smiled.

The Emperor of Ghant, meanwhile, examined one thing after another. “Who is your favorite Emperor, Maria?”

“Hmm, I don’t think I’ve ever given it much thought before,” Maria told Nathan. “Maybe Theophyactus I or Diana. Great-grandmum doesn’t get enough credit,” she smiled to him. “Your turn now, favorite Ghantish Emperor?”

“Theo is your father’s favorite as well,” Nathan said with a chuckle. “My favorite Ghantish Emperor...well, there has only been eight of those, but I would have to say Nathan II, for what he did during the four wars during his lifetime.”

“Of course you’d say a man with your own name is the favorite,” Maria said playfully poking fun at her uncle. “Though a man who won four wars must have been quite the individual,” she continued before pausing and looking down for a moment. “May I ask you a question, a personal question?”

“That’s not fair...half of the Emperor’s of Ghant all had the same name!” Nathan laughed, and then he became more serious at her question. “Sure...what would you like to know?”

“You don’t have to answer if you don’t want,” the Princess began. “But father has never been able to explain to me how you have so many wives when I ask about you and Aunt Bella or he just avoids the question. Are you able to love them all and stuff?”

It wasn’t a question that he was expected to be asked, but he answered it all the same. “...I am able...but it isn’t something I would recommend,” he confided in his so called niece. “I can’t help but feel like I betrayed Sophia, and ever since it all started back in December of 2014, it has just spiraled, and spiraled, until I was in too deep. So I love them and they love me, and we take care of all the children...but it’s like a bad habit...a drug. Do yourself a favor and find a man that will be loyal and true to you and only you. It will make things easier for you both.”

“I’m sorry...it was rude to ask, Uncle. I hope it didn’t upset you,” she sympathetically told him. “If it makes up for anything, you must have a very big heart to love so many people. And I appreciate the advice, though I don’t know if father will ever let me close enough to a boy to find out,” she sighed. “But I don’t want to dampen the day.”

“Don’t apologize,” Nathan said with a smile. “It is quite alright...and I don’t mind explaining, especially to you.”

“Princess Valerie,” Constantine found the courage to speak up. “Would you care to venture into the Memorial with me?”

“It would be my honor,” she said with a wide smile and a cocked head. “What’s in there anyway?”

“It is mostly just more ruins,” the Prince of Youth began. “Though there are some points more interesting than others, like one of the old holding cells that the ancients would keep prisoners or wild animals in before releasing them. Michael says it’s haunted, but he just likes to frighten Selene,” he said as they walked into one of tunnels leading to the arena floor.

“That’s mean,” Val commented gruffly. “You should tell on him for being a stupidhead.” the Ghantish Princess was also scared, and took Constantine’s hand in the memorial.

“That’s just Michael,” Constantine sighed. “I can’t tell on him, only try and get him to be nicer,” he said before receiving a quick chill when Valerie grabbed his hand. “That was the Emperor’s box up there,” he pointed out to lighten things up a bit. “Well, what’s left of it at least.”

“What do you mean by Emperor’s box?” Valerie asked, confused. Granted she was only six years old, but she wasn’t as smart as Sara or Blanche were.

“It’s where the Emperor would sit with his family. It was the best place to watch,” Constantine clarified.

“Oh, ok,” Val nodded, slightly embarrassed that she didn’t know what that was. “How are you so smart?”

“I read a lot, too much according to my father,” Constantine smiled to her. “But it’s fun.”

“I can’t read that good...Sara helps me learn, reads to me too. It’s a bit boring though, I would rather play,” Valerie admitted.

“That’s very nice of her, she seems like a good sister,” Constantine replied. My sister Maria used to read to me as well. But what things do you like to play?”

“...Dolls and dollhouses and dressup and dancing and singing and doing hair and coloring and babies and horse and ducklings and puppies and kittens and princess in the castle,” Valerie responded with a grin. “Oh and hide and go seek but only if I get to hide.”

“Do you have a horse?” he asked. “I really enjoy horseback riding.”

“We have ponies, but mother says I am too young to have one myself,” Val said with a tinge of disappointment. “I know how to ride like a lady in the sidesaddle.”

“I bet that is just as hard to learn,” Constantine said before being interrupted by his brother, Michael.

“What are you two talking about? I bet Costas is boring you, Princess,” Michael grinned.

“Nuh-uh,” Val countered. “Why do you care?”

“Because he’s boring,” Michael said of his brother. “All he does is read and stuff. But anyway, mommy said we have to get going. The plebs don’t want the whole city blocked off all day.”

“You’re boring,” Val taunted him. “For scaring little girls. And only a pleb calls people plebs,” she said as she stuck her tongue out at him.

“Uhh...whatever!” Michael said and then ran towards the group outside of the memorial.

“Thanks for that,” Constantine smiled to Valerie. “He is a jerk sometimes. But I guess we should get going to the others.”

“Yeah, what a doodoo head,” Valerie giggled as she ran back the way they had entered.

“...And that Leo, is why this man, your great-grandfather and namesake was one of the greatest who ever lived,” Jason Augustus finished telling his nephew as Michael ran past him.

“I thought King Robert was the greatest who ever lived,” Bebe intruded with his own pointed commentary. “He vanquished all of his enemies with his sword and warhammer, and forged the Obsidian Throne in the fires of Mt. Arragard and had them haul it back to Ghish. The wheels were lubricated by the blood of those crushed beneath it, and it burned hot for as long as Robert was king.”

“I did say one of the greatest, young Prince,” Jason told Baby Nate. “And many things make one great, not just forging a chair in fire.”

“Like honor and justice,” Leo told his older half-brother while looking to Jason for approval.

“As I said, many different qualities. Now come, it looks like we’re moving on from here, boys,” Jason Augustus told them as as tried to guide them back towards the cars.

Everyone headed back to the cars, while it was Blanche that broached the next topic. “So, what’s for dinner tonight?”

“A feast fit for a princess,” Sophie began to tell Blanche with a smile. “There will be chicken, pork, as well as anything else your little heart desires.”

“And don’t forget dessert,” Maria interjected with a grin before stepping into a car. “All the ice cream and cake you’ll ever need,” she teased.

“Will there be sausages?” Blanche asked politely. “Great-Grandma Teresa says that sausages always hit the spot!”

And there is that Teresa again, now infecting the minds of young girls. Making them say things they don’t even understand, Sophie Augusta thought. “If that is what you’d like, but we’ll have to check with your father first.”

“I sure hope so, they are rather delicious,” Maria told Blanche just before closing the door, giggling as she closed it having heard a story or two about Teresa, but not without receiving an unpleasant look from her step-mother.

Twas Sara who was able to dissuade Blanche. “Chicken should do quite nicely, wouldn’t you agree, Blanche?”

“...Yes, of course,” the other princess said with a nod. “Chicken would serve.”

After spending some time at the memorials, the group made the quick trip back to the Palace, where they would soon find the dining hall that was much more modestly decorated than the rest of the complex, featuring a few of paintings on the walls. The table was set for all of the guests, the Latins featured on one side, with the Ghantish visitors on the opposite and Jason at the head of the table.

“So,” Blanche asked as she took her seat near her sisters...the girls sat close together, as did the boys, with the Emperor and Empress between them. “All of you are the Princes and Princesses of Youth...but where is that? Is there a fountain there too?”

“It’s an old traditional title,” Maria began to explain. “What’s the word for it, Costas?”

“Honorific,” Constantine finished Maria’s thought.

“Yes, that. It’s not a place, but more of a title to denote our position as children of the Emperor,” Maria smiled to Blanche from across the table as the servants began to bring out a plethora of choices for the large party to eat. “It’s just how it’s always been.”

“Well, it couldn’t always have been like that,” Blanche countered curiously. “Everything has a beginning.”

“...As long as anyone can remember,” Nathan said to Blanche as he brushed her hair with his fingers. “This one is very curious...about everything. Too much for her own good.”

“Nothing wrong with a little curiosity,” Maria politely smiled while placing some chicken and vegetables on her plate.

“And what are you curious about?” Nathan asked Maria, while the girls began to add chicken and vegetables to their plates. The boys did the same, with Sophia watching them to make sure they minded their manners.

“Oh, well I uh,” Maria mumbled out, unsure of what to say. “I suppose there are just things everyone is a bit curious of, at any age.”

“So Sophia,” Jason Augustus began speaking, paying little attention to other discussion. “I hope you are enjoying your visit so far,” he said in an effort to produce conversation.

“I have,” Empress Sophia responded with a smile, rubbing the Crown Prince’s back. “It seems as though the children are enjoying it as well. It is good to see them getting along.”

“Yes, they really do don’t they,” Jason said as his glass was filled with water. “And, if you don’t mind me saying, very bright. Especially the Crown Prince.”

“Of course,” Bebe said with a wide smile. “I have to be, since I shall be Emperor someday. To look after all of my brothers and sisters too, and have the wisdom to guide them.”

“Keen senses it seems too it seems,” Jason smiled. “Just don’t try and grow up too fast,” he joked as he cut into his chicken.

“He’s very sharp,” Sophia beamed. “As are all of the children.”

“Empress Sophie,” Sara asked. “Can I ask you a question?”

“Of course you may, Princess,” Sophie Augusta beamed to Sara.

“...How did you and Emperor Jason meet? How did you come to marry?” the wizened Princess Imperial asked, practically a mimic of her mother, with dark brown hair instead of black.

“The Emperor and I met in Rome on a visit not unlike this one here,” Sophie began telling Princess Sara. “He was there to meet my father, the King, regarding something or other and to speak in front of Parliament. He was so handsome and so kind that I think I just fell in love with at that very moment.”

“Was there pressure?” Sara asked, nervously.

Sophia interceded just then. “Forgive my daughter for her intrusive questioning. She is far too smart for her own good, and is very conscious of her rank as Princess Imperial.”

Only pressure on me, Jason rolled his eyes.

“Oh no, there is nothing to forgive,” Sophie smiled, brushing the question off as things children just do. “No pressure at all, we married because we love each other very much,” she finished as she went to hold Jason’s hand.

“What is better then? To marry for love, or for duty?” Sara probed.

“Duty, clearly,” Bebe answered her. “Love is secondary to that.”

Jason took an exceedingly long drink from his glass in the hopes that he could avoid that question being directed at him.

“For love,” Sophie shot a wide smile and looked to her husband who kept drinking from his glass. “At least to me that is.”

“Is that what you will do?” Sara asked Maria with a smile.

“I umm...haven’t really given marriage much thought at this point, Princess,” Maria replied. “But I suppose I’d like to think for love as well...not that I know what that is exactly at this point,” she finished with a laugh. “But who really knows what will happen.”

“The seers do in northern Ghant, with their bones and charms in the forest,” Blanche giggled. “They can tell you your future as if they saw it themselves!”

“Can they?” Jason asked curiously after finally placing his empty glass down. “I may have to pay them a visit next time I’m in Ghant.”

“Have you seen them before?” Constantine curiously asked.

“Nope,” Blanche shook her head. “But I have heard about them.

“What about you Emperor Nathan,” Constantine asked again. “Have you ever visited them?

“I have,” Nathan responded, but not without some hesitation. “Their words are cryptic, as you could imagine, and more often than not, you don’t understand what they say until it happens to you, and then know you realize their words were true,” he explained in between bites of chicken.

“Oh,” Constantine said skeptically.

“And what was it the seers told you, did it blow your mind after?” Maria asked the Ghantish Emperor. “Was it enlightening?”

Nathan cleared his throat, “she cut my hand with a bone knife and licked the blood from the cut, and told me that…” he then recited the prophecy that he was once told in the north by a seer.

“A wounded tree with sagely bloom,
A lovely season, it shall groom.
Fruit shall grow, seeds so strong,
Blow across the sea, tis their song.

By the fruits shall the tree be known,
Many shall be the seeds sown.
Trees tall, strong and wise.
Tress wicked, malicious guise.”

Taking a drink of his wine, Nathan shrugged and said, “that’s about all that I can remember.”

“Well you’re right about one thing,” Jason spoke up after pushing his plate aside. “They certainly are cryptic.”

“And what was it that happened when you knew it was true, uncle?” Maria kindly asked Papa Nate.

“When I started having children, and I realized that I was the tree,” he chuckled, patting Blanche’s head. “And these are the fruits.”

“That’s quite lovely,” Maria smiled as servants brought out a wide variety of desserts for everyone to choose from.

A servant asked Jason Augustus which he would like, which resulted in a sigh from the Latin Emperor. “None for me,” he said as he looked down to his watch.

“Are we keeping you from somewhere, brother?” Isabella asked noticing he was acting oddly.

“Not at all, I’m with my family. What more do I need?” Jason replied in a somewhat standoffish tone.

“Maybe there’s something that you need that you can’t get here,” Baby Nate teased as he finished gnawing on his chicken leg.

“And what would that be, little one?” Jason asked the boy as Sophie Augusta sat back, fixated on the discussion.

With all eyes fixated on Bebe, he grinned, relishing the spotlight. “Business or pleasure...the two things that will always make a man be hurried.”

Jason smiled at the boy with a glass of wine in his hand. “I made sure to take care of all my business beforehand,” he said, clearly understanding what the boy was implying. “But I’m sure your mother and father know all too well that there is always something to deal with.”

“The Empress too, no doubt,” he said slyly in response as he brought his glass of tea to his lips, causing Sophia to shy.

“Forgive the Crown Prince, Your Majesty,” Sophia said. “He is still learning his manners.”

“He’s young, it happens,” Jason told Sophia while the Latin Empress sat still in her seat.

Red faced now, Sophie Augusta softly placed her napkin on her plate. “I’m terribly sorry, if you’ll excuse me for a moment,” she said standing from her seat, walking towards the exit, causing all of her children to look towards her and their father confused.

Baby Nate quietly munched on his chickenbone, while offering a grin towards his young counterpart Constantine. The Empress of Ghant’s face began to turn red as she looked at him with disapproval.

“Well,” the Emperor of Ghant began, “the dessert is quite good, don’t you think so Maria?”

“I..I uh should go see if everything is alright,” Jason said as he took his time walking to the door after his wife.

“Very good,” Maria nodded to help break the awkward silence. “The chocolate cake is exquisite.”

Constantine, meanwhile, noticed Baby Nate’s smirk, and did a quick once over of him before turning his attention to his father exiting the hall. Wonder what that is about, he thought.

“I like chocolate too,” Nathan agreed with a smile. “Tis my favorite, especially with hot fudge, whipped cream and cold milk.”

“Well you have fantastic taste, Your Majesty,” Maria said taking a bite of the cake.

“I get told that a lot,” Nathan laughed in response at Maria’s complement. Sophia, unbeknownst to him, sighed softly.

Then Jason Augustus re-entered the room and reclaimed his seat at the table just as if he never left. “Where is mommy?” Michael asked Jason.

“She’s feeling a bit under the weather, son,” Jason told his the young Michael. “I’m sorry about that,” he then said to his Imperial counterparts. “Sophie won’t be joining us for the remainder of the day.”

“Such a shame,” Princess Sara frowned, already fond of Empress Sophie. She poked at her dessert, as did Valerie and Blanche, although the latter took careful bites.

“I hope she feels better soon,” Blanche mused. “She seems like a such a sweet lady.” the half-Vannoisian Princess glanced Diana, to see how she was doing.

“Thank you for the kind words, Princesses. I’ll be sure to pass them along,” Jason responded to the girls. “More wine,” he then demanded from a servant.

“I was thinking while we were here we could take the boys out golfing,” Nathan suggested. “Let them learn their swings. The girls can do...girly things.”

“That could be arranged,” Jason said as his glass was filled with wine. “Have you taken your boys out yet?”

“A little, they know the basic concepts,” the Emperor of Ghant informed him. “We could help them play while we enjoy some drinks and the weather.”

“Certainly, that would be good for them,” Jason nodded. “We’ll finally see if you were just lucky the last time we were out.”

“...We will have to see about some caddies too,” Nathan grinned.

“Ah, we will won’t we? They were pretty on the ball the last time,” Jason chuckled. Anything that can get me away from Sophie for a little while is good with me, he thought.

“Yeah, I was just thinking that myself,” he remembered the last time fondly, six years ago. “Hopefully they might still be interested.”

“I think golf sounds like fun,” Bebe grinned. “I bet Leo’s excited, aren’t you brother?”

“I’m sure who ever caddied for us last time is long gone from there by now, but I have no doubt in the...ample quality and skill of caddies,” Jason said.

“I am, Nate,” Leo said to his half brother, stopping himself at that before he said something his mother would reprimand him for.

“Good…” Bebe began to say before being cut off by Sara.

“Your Majesty,” the Princess Imperial said, “would Leo be able to see some trains while we are here? He does like trains, and I would like to see them too.”

“Hmm, would you, Leo?” Jason asked his nephew.

“Maybe if there’s time,” Leo replied. “I would like to go golfing though.” And beat Nate, he thought.

“There is more than enough time for everything, nephew,” Jason smiled to the boy. “Perhaps after golf or dinner tomorrow.”

“Finishing everything that remained to him, the Emperor of Ghant leaned back in his seat and groaned. “Oh man, I am so full...I should lay down and let my food digest.”

“I as well,” Maria smiled to her Uncle Nathan. “A bit of a food coma.”

“May I be excused, father?” Constantine asked, to which his father nodded. “Your Majesties,” he said as he subtly bowed his head.

The rest followed suit, scampering off like birds from a cage.

by **Lacus Magni** » Mon Jan 11, 2016 1:25 pm

Palace of Augustus
Castellum ab Alba, Latium
30 April 2022

“You’re being paranoid and completely unreasonable. And don’t forget that we have guests. You can’t decide to act like a child now,” Jason said to his wife.

“Please leave,” Sophie softly responded to her husband’s cruel remarks. “If you can’t understand what the issue is, then there is little point of continuing this.”

“What? Because some stupid little boy says some stupid remark you…” he said before being cut off by Sophie.

“I asked you to please leave. It’s not the boy, it’s you,” she finished before rolling over on the bed.

Jason Augustus turned around and stormed out of the room, slamming the door behind him so loudly that he thought it could be heard throughout the Palace. I can’t deal with this shit right now, he thought as he tried to collect himself outside of the room.

“Who the hell are you?” he questioned seeing a woman standing not far from him with a Praetorian next to her.

“Antonia Vera, Caesar,” she told him. “I caddied for you and Emperor Nathan during his last visit. Imperial Offices told me that the Emperor of Ghant wished to see me.”

“Oh, oh, right,” Jason said touching his head to his hand. No idea, he thought. “Well I was planning on seeing him in a bit, why don’t you tag along.”

“Certainly, Caesar,” Antonia replied to the Latin Emperor with a smile.

Not to seem improper, Nathan shared a bed with the Empress, who didn’t mind his comforts by night, in the form of snuggling and holding him close...she was far too pregnant to derive pleasure from sex, and the Emperor was content to just be with her and hold her close. In any event, she was an early riser, and her movements early in the morning caused him to stir as well. They took a bath together, which the two of them always enjoyed, and then they were dressed for the day, with the Emperor wearing a white tunic and slacks with black tennis shoes for golfing. When he was ready, he ventured out into the Palace to see what was going on.

Jason walked in the direction of Emperor Nathan’s suite with Antonia. “So what is it you do now?”

“Doctor, sir,” she replied.

“Very good,” Jason shortly responded to her as he saw Nathan wandering about. “Nathan, good morning,” he said.

Nathan turned around and with a big smile on his face, exclaimed, “Antonia, is that you?”

“It is, Your Majesty,” she told him with a large grin. “I honestly never expected you to remember me,” she laughed.

“Marsella told me that you would have liked to see her during your stay,” Jason told Nathan.

“Marsella was right, as usual,” Nathan chuckled, giving Antonia a hug. “How could I ever forget my trusted caddy, Antonia Vera? A doctor now I take it?”

“I know you are a busy man, I never expected it,” Antonia smiled. “And yes, finally a doctor. At St. John’s here in Castellum.”

“That’s fantastic!” Nathan exclaimed in his excitement. “So, are you interested in joining us on the golf course today? We are bringing the boys out, so we would have some time to catch up while they play.”

“Oh, I could never intrude like that, Your Majesty,” Antonia told him thinking he was simply being polite.

“Nonsense,” Jason told her. “Come if you like. The boys could probably use your advice out there.”

“I...well if you two really don’t mind,” Antonia said.

“I don’t mind at all,” Nathan beamed. “Trust me, there isn’t anything I want more than to see Dr. Antonia Vera out on the course, just like old times. It will be fun!”

“I’d be honored, in that case,” Antonia smiled to the two Emperors.

“Come, lets go fetch the boys,” Jason suggested.

Baby Nate slept soundly in his room alone, with John and Leo also being in their own rooms. At a reasonable hour, he woke up on his own and took a quick bath, before dressing in casual sporting clothes. Then he proceeded to run to his brothers’ rooms and bang on the doors until they came out. John was ready, dressed similarly, although not looking terribly enthusiastic on account of not being into sports or other physical activities. Then the two of them went to Leo’s room. “Time to wake up, let’s go, don’t keep me waiting!” Bebe shouted as he banged on the door, while John looked on.

“Hold on, I’m coming,” Leo shouted back at his brother. Prince Leo had been awake and ready for nearly an hour, though he did not sleep well the night before due to his excitement. Dressed in appropriate khaki pants, and a golf shirt, Leo flipped off his TV and took one last look at the large portrait of Leo X Augustus triumphantly riding a horse through the Khrysókeras in Constantinople. He approached the door and grabbed his hat before opening it. “Morning, John,” he said upon his exit. “Ready to get your butt kicked, Nate?”

“By you? Yeah right,” Bebe laughed. “I will have you running back to your mother in tears by the ninth hole. Then your uncle can see how much of a wuss you are.”

“Save it for the green, brothers,” John encouraged the two of them. “The mood is sour of late, with Empress Sophie being upset and the Emperor likely to be as well.”

“Yeah, good point,” Bebe conceded with a grin to Leo. “So I don’t want to see you causing any trouble, you got that?”

“Whatever, Nate,” Leo snidely told his older-half brother. “Besides, you’re the one who upset her anyhow,” he quickly added as he noticed his father, uncle, cousins and some random woman approaching them.

“Did I Leo, really?” the Crown Prince countered. “You saw it...Emperor Jason checking his watch and getting all antsy, then by his own admission trying to catch up with some whore. Sophie knew it...it wasn’t like me saying anything make her realize it. God, your family is full of…” he stopped when he saw their father. “Father,” he called out. “We have arrived and are ready.”

“Antonia,” Nathan said with a smile, “these are my sons, Nathan, John and Leo.”

“Greetings, my lady,” Bebe said politely as he bowed a bit and kissed the back of her hand.

“Hello, my lady,” John said to her bashfully.

“Nice to meet you,” Leo smiled to her. “Morning Uncle, cousins,” he continued.

“Good morning, Leo,” Constantine nodded. “Nathan, John,” he finished while the younger Michael waved to them.

“Now that we are all acquainted, shall we?” Jason asked everyone to get going. “Same course as last time, if you don’t mind Nathan.”

“Not at all, let’s get to it shall we?” With that, Nathan offered his arm to Antonia to walk together, and the boys fell in line behind them.

Bebe turned to Michael and asked, “do you even know how to play golf? Aren’t you like three?”

“I asked to come,” Michael responded to Baby Nate. “I’ve wanted daddy to take me golfing for a long time.”

Jason noticed Nathan take Antonia’s arm and thought, Wonder if anything is going on there? The group approached the large motorcade then. “Alright, a car for the kids and a car for the adults,” he said. “Costas, make sure nobody gets in to trouble,” he directed his oldest son.

“You too, Junior,” the Emperor of Ghant said to his heir. “Keep the peace, will you?”

“Of course, father...you know me,” the Crown Prince said with a smile as he then ran off for their car. Nathan proceeded to walk to the grown up car then, and let Antonia climb in first if so inclined.

The Latin Emperor climbed into the vehicle after Nathan and Antonia. “So Antonia, have you been keeping in touch with your fellow caddy, uh Julia, was her name wasn’t it?” he asked as the motorcade began to move.

“Yes, Julia,” Antonia nodded to Jason. “We kept in touch throughout undergraduate. But she, unfortunately, passed away on the Appian last year,” she explained, referencing the Appian Massacre.

“I’m terribly sorry,” Jason told her. “An absolute travesty. She seemed like a great girl,” he said to comfort her.

“Yes, terribly sorry to hear that,” Nathan told her with a hand on her shoulder. “She seemed like a nice girl. I certainly have not forgotten.”

“She was. I try and keep in touch as best I can with her husband and see her little girl whenever I can,” Antonia explained. “But it’s difficult to find time to get away from the hospital and when he isn’t on duty.”

“What about you?” the Emperor of Ghant asked her curiously. “Is there a special someone or any children in your life?”

“Engaged, as a matter of fact,” Antonia broke a smile. “Been together now almost five years now. No children yet though,” she laughed.

“That’s great to hear, Antonia,” Jason told her, seeing the golf course getting closer through the window.

“Good for you,” Nathan nodded. Damn. “He’s a lucky guy for sure.”

“Thank you, both of you,” Antonia beemed. “You really don’t have any idea what it means to have two Emperor’s say something like that.”

“Of course,” Jason said. “Well, it looks like we’re here,” he stated when they pulled up to the club entrance.

“Fantastic.” Once they had arrived, Nathan climbed out of the car, offering to help Antonia out as well. “Just like how I remember it.”

The Guards went to a third vehicle and grabbed bags for each of the players, placing them in their own cart. “Let’s not hope exactly,” Jason joked. “Well, I guess we’ll put Costas, Leo, John and Nate in their own carts, have their caddies drive them. Little Michael will join me in mine,” he explained. “And I suppose you and Antonia could ride together. If you don’t mind of course.”

“Not at all...in fact, I think that is a great plan,” the Emperor of Ghant agreed. “Although I wonder who might your caddy will be, Jason.”

Well I was planning on it being someone like last time, but with how Sophie is acting, Jason thought. “Oh, I’ll just steal Costas’s caddy when I need one. I’m sure he won’t mind,” he said. After that, four caddies walked out of the clubhouse, three boys and a girl, the latter of whom walked to Constantine’s cart.

“...You sure about that?” Appearing from behind was a shapely woman wearing a white sundress and a matching wide brimmed sun hat, with white tennis shoes poking out from her skirt. Twas none other than Lady Marsella Atmos. “My father was on the GGA for a number of years...I know my way around a course. At least enough to be a caddy. You interested, your Majesty?” she asked Jason with a playful grin.

“My Lady,” Jason’s face lit up at Marsella’s presence. “What a pleasant surprise. I...uh most certainly am interested. Please, please, this way,” he spoke over himself.

“Certainly. I have been meaning to see how you handle a club,” Marsella teased.

“...That’s Ghant’s delegated to LOTA,” Nathan informed Antonia the same way he did in the old days, softly and leaning into her ear. “She is omnipresent.”

“It definitely seems that way,” Antonia nodded as she watched Jason kiss the back of Marsella’s hand. “I remember seeing her face in the paper back whenever it was when she was appointed. Much more beautiful in person.”

“Well, she’s not the only one,” Nathan responded thoughtfully, looking at Antonia. “One never forgets a pretty face.”

“Who is that?” Leo asked the group of boys.

“Ghant’s LOTA person,” Constantine told his cousin. “She comes to the Palace every now and again.”

“Yeah, to conduct business and stuff,” Bebe explained. “That’s mother’s friend, from House Atmos. She has nice tits.”

“And is sharp of mind,” John nodded.

“Of course, business,” Constantine said. “Father meets with all of the LOTA reps occasionally.”

“Why don’t you boys ride ahead and tee off first,” Jason shouted to Constantine and the others as he stood next to Marsella, which Constantine took note of.

“Yes, father,” Constantine told Jason as his caddy moved forward to the first tee.

“John, Leo,” Bebe called out. “Watch Connie take his swing so you guys know what to do when it’s your turn. It won’t be any fun beating you if you don’t even know how to do it right. So watch and learn as the pro’s take the tee.”

“...ok,” John responded timidly, as he scratched the back of his head.

Nathan, meanwhile, stood by Antonia. “So, what’s your fiance like? Did you know him from undergrad?”

“Make sure you watch to then, Nate. Don’t act like you’re so good at this,” Leo laughed as Constantine struck his ball.

“Not bad,” Constantine said to himself after he shot. It was straight and went a modest distance for a boy of 9 years old. “Who wants next?”

“I will go next,” Baby Nate began to boast. “So you two scrubs will have an example to follow when it’s your turn.” Stepping up to the tee, he practiced his swing a bit, and then he let it rip, sending the ball flying, although not as far as Constantine’s ball, landing a bit behind it on the green. “Like that.”

John went next, and when he hit it, it went veering off into the rough off to the side, to which Bebe laughed and said, “nice going, shankasaurus.”

“Don’t be mean, Nate,” Leo said sticking up for John before he swung. He took his shot, coming up short of both Constantine and Nate, while barely being on the fairway.

“I actually went to high school with his sister,” Antonia explained to Emperor Nathan. “He was a few years ahead of us and one day I was invited to their lake house in Alpina and everything went from there,” she continued. “He’s a very sweet man, works at the Verruscosi Telecom headquarters just outside the city.”

Grinning sheepishly, Nathan observed that, “ah, the lake house invitation technique. Very effective. I knew I should have offered that invitation to you all those years back,” he finished with a playful chuckle. As he watched the boys play golf.

“It was maybe the month after I caddied for you actually,” Antonia laughed. “You’d like him though, cheesy techniques or not.”

“Ah, interesting timing,” Nathan commented, beginning to regret not trying his hand all those years ago. “He sounds like my kind of guy.”

“Constantine has a decent swing,” Marsella observed as he looked on. “Do you take him out golfing often?”

“It’s one of the few things that can actually pull him away from the books,” Jason said to Marsella. “I think he enjoys how quiet it is and the mental aspect of the game.”

Raising an eyebrow, Marsella wondered, “I suspect you enjoy it for similar reasons. A nice, quiet break away from the pressures that you face in your life.”

“More or less,” Jason grinned to Marsella. “Some pressures I enjoy more than others…”

“Oh, is that so? Perhaps you can elucidate,” the ambassador laughed.

“Well...in regards to the Senate, things like that,” the Latin Emperor explained. “But I’m sure you knew that much already.”

Constantine approached John after the group shot. “May I offer some advice, cousin?”

“Sure...what advice would you like to bestow?” Prince John asked softly, as was his way, while Bebe analyzed the ball and his club and whistled some song.

“I’ve often found it best clear my head before hitting the ball,” Constantine advised John. “Stand over the ball kind of like this. Father always says if you feel comfortable before hitting the ball you’re doing something wrong. So don’t worry if it feels awkward. Oh, and don’t grip the club too hard,” he suggested.

“Alright...I will give that a try,” John responded as he waited for Constantine to go again.

After Leo took his second shot, the ball landed about 100 yards from where he hit from. “Wow,” Constantine told his cousin. “Very nice,” he said before lining up next to the ball. He took a moment before striking it, not unlike he’d seen his father do, and then hit the ball, seeing it land some 110 yards from the hole.

When Bebe went up to take a shot, he looked at his father talking to Dr. Vera. Grimacing, he went to take a shot, and shanked the ball deep into the rough. “Dammit!” he exclaimed, throwing his club and pacing off heated in the direction of the ball.

With a stoic face, John went up to hit the ball, and taking Constantine’s advice, hit the ball, landing on the edge of the rough to the side of Leo and Constantine. “It will serve,” he said calmly.

“Good shot, John,” Constantine told him along with Leo. “Did that help at all?”

“Yes, quite a bit,” John told them with a smile. “Maybe I can find the hole.”

“You would have better luck finding gold in a trash heap,” Bebe sniggered as he looked around the rough for his ball.

“Don’t be cruel,” Constantine told Baby Nate. “Everyone has to learn at some point. He’s doing fine.”

“Yea, and you’re in the taller grass too,” Leo added with a laugh.

“Yeah, yeah, real funny,” Baby Nate scowled. “Laugh it up while you still can, brother. Once I find my ball and start swinging again, you’ll be sorry!”

“If you find your ball,” Leo continued laughing, though Constantine kept his straight face.

“Keep it up and I will make you find it for me,” the Crown Prince said firmly, clearly irritated.

The Emperor of Ghant let out a yawn. “So what kind of doctor are you precisely?” he asked Antonia. “A generalist, perhaps?”

“My focus is neurology. I’m technically a member of the military,” Antonia laughed. “But they paid for my schooling and the chance of me ever being sent overseas is next to none because of how specialized my field is.”

“Ah, I see, in a way that’s a shame,” Nathan teased her. “That means you won’t find yourself in Ghant anytime soon I suspect.”

“It seems unlikely, unless of course I go for vacation during or something,” she smiled to Nathan. “But who knows what will happen. I certainly never expected to see you again.”

“You didn’t?” the Ghantish Emperor seemed surprised. “You should have more faith! Sooner or later I always come back, if only because I cannot stand the notion of someone pleasant leaving just after having met.”

“Faith has been a little hard to keep lately,” Antonia said with a sad look on her face. “And I’m sure rulers and politicians are always busy and meeting new people daily. And plus, the Caesar didn’t remember me when I was brought to the Palace.”

“That’s the Caesar though,” Nathan winced slightly at the words. “I care far more about the people that I meet...people like you. Dare I say, for the past six years I have thought about you quite a bit, not just for the advice you gave me about golfing strategy. Everything, from your eye color, to the color of your hair, what you were wearing, the dimples at the corners of your mouth when you smiled. Those are the things that make life such a pleasure to live...the people, how you affected them and how they affected you. The difference between me and Jason is,” the Emperor began to say with a sigh, “that I let people in, and he doesn’t. Things for him are a matter of pride, whereas for me, well...for me it’s a matter of positivity.”

“That is a good outlook to have on things, Nathan,” Antonia broke a smile out. “I don’t know much of politics, but it’d be nice to see some of that from the Senators. Sorry,” she said stopping herself. “I shouldn’t talk ill of them. You are a good man, Emperor Nathan,” she told him with a large smile.

“...Not good enough,” he laughed in response. “I have a weakness for pretty women. You might be able to say that I am easily taken advantage of, yet I never seem to mind when that’s the case. Although, depending on who you ask, that is less a weakness and more a strength,” he laughed some more.

“Nobody is perfect and at least you have recognized it as a weakness,” Antonia playfully patted Emperor Nathan on the back. “You can’t fix something unless you recognize the problem.”

“What’s your position on such things, dare I ask?” Nathan asked with a raised eyebrow upon her patting him on the back. He returned the favor by patting her shoulder.

“On what sort of things? Weakness?” Antonia asked, confused.

“...How have you been finding the Ghantish Imperials?” Marsella asked Jason as she walked around the course, as if studying it. “What you expected?”

“They...uh are an interesting bunch, My Lady,” Jason began, though I’d smack that Crown Prince if he were mine. “The Empress seems like an extremely intelligent woman. Though she is hard to read. And the little Leo seems like a sharp boy. He and I talked for awhile yesterday.”

“I told you he was,” the Ghantish ambassador grinned. “And the Crown Prince?”

“Little Nathan?” Jason asked. “He has quite the mouth on him. And that is probably all I should say,” Jason told Marsella as he looked at the boys off in the distance.

“Yes he does. One certainly can’t fault him for being bold. Alas, the boy, like his grandfather the King of Dakmoor, never forgets a thing, and is very aware of his position and how to use it to get what he wants. He may be spoiled and brazen, but don’t mistake that for him being a fool.” Marsella took a bottle of beer out of her sidebag. “Beer, Jason?”

“Sure,” Jason replied taking the beer from Marsella, taking a good look at her body. “The boy is arrogant,” he spat out. “He said something at dinner last night, and it just sent Sophie over the edge for some reason. Sorry, I shouldn’t have shared that,” he stopped, looking generally confused over last night.

“Too late now...maybe I can help though,” she suggested as she handed him a beer and took one for herself. “I think I know what it’s about, and if it is, well, I would say that I would have a different position on it.”

“I don’t know, no need to involve you into my failing marriage,” Jason hesitantly replied as he cracked open the beer. “Michael,” he yelled off to his youngest son who was just swinging off in the distance. “Why don’t you join up with your brother and cousin,” he told him as a guard walked him over to the boys. Changing his mind again after a long first drink from his beer, “What is your position then?”

Clearing her throat first before answering, she began to explain that, “That your marriage is failing because Sophie is unhappy with the way things are. Despite being Empress and mother a likely future Latin Emperor, she has unrealistic expectations for you that don’t necessarily match who you are or who you want to be,” Marsella told him. “I can’t really more on that, given I do not have complete access to information.”

“It was probably doomed from the start,” Jason sighed to Marsella, thinking of the public ramifications of such a collapse. “You are probably right though, I don’t think we could be any more different from each other,” he said of his wife. “And I was never into it from the start.”

“Of course. She was far more interested in you than you were in her, and she wanted things from you that you weren’t comfortable giving. You caved into the pressure for politics, and that exacerbated the issue.” Pausing and biting her bottom lip, she continued. “In Ghant there is a saying. ‘Gizakiaren bizitzaren loreak asko egon daitezke, baina ez arrosa bakarra da’. It translates to, there may be many flowers in a man's life, but there is only one rose. Stephanie was the rose, while Sophie is the violet. The violet, pretending to be a rose, does the violet and the man no justice. That doesn’t mean that there can’t be other flowers that take pride in what they are...like the tulip, perhaps. It is said that the tulip's velvety black center represents a lover's heart, darkened by the heat of passion. With the power to rival roses in their red variety and the sweet charm to express simple joy when yellow. A tulip can also convey elegance and grace. So, while there will never be another rose, there are plenty of other flowers worthy of plucking,” she mused.

“I can see the sense in that,” Jason responded, placing his arm on the seat of the golf cart behind Marsella. “Any idea where one might find one of these tulips?” he coyfully asked.

“They are all around,” Marsella said as she leaned back in her seat of the golf cart. “But they are delicate flowers, and must be handled carefully. Yet, you will find the rewards are great, for the tulip knows the nature of the man, and finds little offense in who he is. It appreciates the man for who he is, not for what it wants him to be. That way, the tulip is never disappointed.”

“Do they now?” Jason questioned while shifting slightly closer to her now. “That greatly interests me, My Lady. Though, I’m not sure how delicate I can be,” he finished with a chuckle.

“Depends upon how robust the flower is, in truth,” the ambassador shrugged as she threw back some of the beer. “And I am sure it does,” she began to laugh. “Tulips are rather strong flowers, that don’t wilt from extreme pressures. Maybe a tulip is what you need.”

“That’s certainly what I’m beginning to believe,” Jason grinned to Lady Marsella as he moved his arm from the cart seat and around to her shoulder.

Eventually, the Crown Prince found his ball deep in the rough, and when it was his turn to swing, he hit it as hard as he could, sending it flying, dirt and grass and all, into the air. It landed in the rough on the opposite side of the green. “Son of a bitch!” he exclaimed with a red face as he stomped and kicked at the bushes.

Leo giggled at his half-brother’s shot, but kept his mouth shut this time. When he hit his ball, it landed to the left-side of the fairway, short of the green.

Constantine was up now. He took his time as he always did and then struck his ball. Watching it fly to the green, he saw his ball hit the pin and it nearly rolled off the green from the impact, stopping almost 15 feet from the hole, which would leave him with a lengthy next shot.

John hit his ball in the general direction of the hole, staying on the green but being at least a shot behind, to which he merely shrugged. Bebe went to shoot then, and again hit it rather hard, sending it flying past the hole well to the other side to which he turned beet red and grimaced.

“What I meant to ask,” Nathan tried to clarify to Antonia, “is...are you a sucker for pretty faces? Erm, if you could consider a man’s face pretty...not mine specifically, but in general…” God, she is really throwing me off. And if you did, and you liked them, how would you handle that? I mean, seeing as you are not married yet…”

“I recognize an attractive face when I see one,” Antonia responded with a bit of suspicion. “But I don’t think I’d ever act on it, and while I may not be married yet, I’m spoken for already, Nathan.”

“Yes of course, doctor. It was merely a question of moral and ethical behavior...seeing as how you are a doctor, I assumed you would welcome such philosophical conversation,” he said with a smile as he tried to cover his tracks. Damn I am starting to get rusty. His troilistic relationship with Sophia and Dominique, and the rest had done a number on his game. It’s like being a lion in zoo that gets steak thrown at it regularly...it can get fat and complacent without having to engage in the thrill of the hunt.

“Of course,” Antonia smiled back to him. “For me, I don’t know if I base that on ethics as much as I would never want to cause my fiance to go through that pain, having been on the other side myself. I love him to much to do that to him,” she went on, then remembering bits of news involving the Ghantish Emperor and the Latin Princess. “Not that there is anything wrong with another’s decision.”

“...He cheated on you?” Nathan asked with a look of surprise. “Or was it some other guy that did?”

“Not Flavius, it was before he and I ever met,” Antonia began explaining. “I just felt so hurt, that I don’t think I could live with myself if I ever caused someone to experience that type of pain.”

Nathan nodded, but not with enthusiasm. “Ah, I see. That is noble of you, to care so much about the feelings of another person that is meaningful to you.”

Taking notice of Nathan’s demeanor, Antonia said, “Forgive me, I don’t mean any disrespect.”

“Of course,” the Emperor of Ghant chuckled. “I know...what makes you think you have slighted me? There is nothing to be forgiven, in truth.”

“Very well then,” Antonia let out with a small smile. “The last thing I’d want to do is have a person like you think ill of me.”

“Of that I never could,” he responded with a soft tone.

“I’m glad of that,” Antonia smirked to Emperor Nathan.

As Constantine waited for the other boys to get to the green, he helped Leo with his next shot attempt. “So I should try and aim for that spot?” Leo asked his Latin cousin.

“Yeah, because if you try and just hit the green or the hole from here I think you’ll sky it over,” Constantine offered.

“Like Nate,” Leo laughed standing next to his ball. He pulled back and hit the ball, with it landing just barely on the green.

Baby Nate hit his ball, landing just outside of the green from where it was in the rough. John, meanwhile, was another shot from the green. “That will serve.”

Marsella didn’t resist when Jason put his arm around her back and on to her shoulder. “If you suspect that your marriage is fast becoming loveless, I would suggest you consider finding someone else to provide you with the sort of companionship that you require.”

“Things have been moving in that direction for some time, if they weren’t already there,” Jason told Marsella. “And I may or may not have given your suggestion some previous thought...with a few in mind.”

“A few in mind already eh?” the ambassador raised an eyebrow with a wry grin to accompany it. “Care to elucidate on that?”

“I’m Emperor, I have more options than anyone could possibly imagine,” Jason laughed in a clearly joking manner. “But seriously, I think I could easily narrow it down to one...,” he grinned, looking to Marsella.

“Well, I would say me, but that would be the obvious choice,” Marsella laughed. “So to make things interesting, I would have to guess...hmm...Sulpicia.” Flashing a grin, she teased, “don’t think I don’t know, but it is hardly of any concern of mine.”

“Lord no. We are still good friends, but that time has long past,” Jason laughed. “Oh, I think you do know,” he said with a sly look into her eyes, now rubbing her shoulder.

Marsella tilted her head. “Princess Dominique will be hard to coax from Ghish, considering her...fondness for both the Emperor and the Empress,” she smirked, feigning ignorance. “Oh, who am I kidding, it is me...no sense in beating around the bush, eh?”

“None, My Lady,” Jason softly said as he leaned in to kiss her, completely ignoring her comment about Dominique and the two Imperials.

Not wanting to show disinterest but not wanting to give away too much, she kissed him back and put a hand on the back of his neck, and then pulled away after a few moments. “Caesar making plays, it would seem,” she grinned. “Not too much too soon, at least with prying eyes in the area. We have gone to dinner twice thus far since we first spoke on that balcony...do you know what they say about the third time?” she teased him coyly.

“Of course, far too many unwelcome eyes presently,” Jason nodded, though still wanting more. “It’s been awhile since I’ve had a third date, but I am certainly imaginative. We will have to plan that soon.”

“That we shall, dear Emperor, that we shall,” Marsella giggled.

“Golf sucks,” Bebe pouted. “Stupid wind blowing my ball all around the damn course.”

More like you suck, Leo laughed to himself. “Don’t worry, brother,” he said condescendingly.

“It’s very enjoyable once you get the hang of it, Nathan,” Constantine attempted to tell the Crown Prince. “It takes awhile,” he said before sinking a putt.

“It would be easier to concentrate if Leo wasn’t chirping at me like some kind of a mockingbird,” Bebe snorted. “I am just trying to learn the game, which isn’t any easier with him making japes about it. He should be quiet before I tell mother and then there will be no seeing of trains!”

“Don’t be a brat, Nathan,” John discouraged such a course of action, as he went to putt. His shot was too short, but it was on it’s way.

“Do they bicker like this all time time?” Constantine asked John while he waited for Leo and Baby Nate to finish up.

“Yes,” John said with a sigh. “I think it is sort of a two way thing. Nathan finds Leo’s existence to be insulting for reasons that you can imagine, and Leo I think is both angry at him for that, and jealous of his position, in truth.”

“That’s to bad,” Constantine replied as he watched the two continue to shoot and bicker.

Leo went to take his putt, sending it well wide to the right of the hole. “Dang,” he quietly said.

“Yeah, that’s what you get,” Bebe taunted Leo for missing. “Don’t worry, brother, I am sure you will get it in the next shot...or two.” the Crown Prince overshot his putt by a longshot. “Jesus Christ!”

Leo walked to his ball and simply clapped after Baby Nate did the same shot he did. Then he took his own shot. It didn’t make it in the hole, but it was close enough where it would be after the next.

John found the hole after a careful shot, and then, Bebe hit the hole, after the ball spun around for a bit. “Come on Leo, don’t keep us waiting!” the Crown Prince teased.

The Emperor of Ghant had been drinking some alcohol, be it beer or liquor in general. “I envy you, doctor, because you don’t have to worry about people chasing after the titles, or the prestige, or the bragging rights. When I was the age you were when we first met, girls were like mosquitos on a hot summer night, sticky, clinging to my skin and sucking me dry. Why, for every one I swatted off of me, two more would latch on. Fortunately, the bites never itched,” he laughed.

“I don’t think I can even begin to imagine that,” Antonia displayed some sympathy for Nathan. “I’ve always assumed it went both ways, based on what I saw from the politicians and other important people I caddied for here over the years. Though as for prestige and bragging rights, we run into that in my profession, of course for different...erm reasons,” she said patting his hand.

Taking another drink, he shook his head. “Different reasons eh? Like what?”

“I mean somebody always wants a promotion, a high staff position or be the first to pull off some crazy procedure,” Antonia laughed. “Sorry if that was confusing, I didn’t mean in the same way that you were describing. It’s not really similar at all.”

“Well, in both situations, someone is trying to get on a high staff position,” Nathan threw his head back and laughed.

“That’s a fair point,” Antonia joined Nathan in a laugh. “How do you deal with it, if I may ask?”

“...How do I deal with what?” Nathan asked with a mischievous grin.

“People prying at you non-stop,” Antonia clarified.

Nathan had to think about that for a moment. “I let them pry, to the extent where there isn’t really anything for them to dig at. I don’t let the paparazzi bother me. They eventually go away, after I make it clear that there isn’t anything they can get out of me. So I talk to them, make jokes, let them follow me around like it’s reality TV. I even offered them to watch me use the bathroom, but they declined, seeing my point.”

“Probably not a bad way to handle things,” Antonia nodded. “Does your wife feel the same way about them?”

“She likes to have more space between them and her, for her children’s sake I think,” Nathan answered honestly. “Women seem more fickle about those sorts of things anyway, no offense. Just, you know, in terms of wanting space and comfort.”

“I think what you need,” Marsella told Jason, “is a woman that will let you be you, and accept that for what it’s worth. And, it is hard to find someone like that...that isn’t after you for your wealth and position.”

“I believe you are right, darling,” Jason replied. “And that last part especially. It is part of the reason I avoided it for as long as I did after Stephanie. But umm, it’s just something you have to deal with until the woman you describe happens to come along,” he smiled.

“She might be coming very soon indeed,” Marsella continued to play coy with Jason. “Will you be able to handle it?”

“I’m sure, whoever that woman may be, will find me more than capable,” Jason responded in equal tone.

“We’ll have to see about that,” Marsella taunted him. “Most men boast of such prowess, only to come up short when it counts.”

“In that case, she’ll have to find out whenever it is we reach our third date. As someone close to me once advised that is when things start to happen,” Jason joked.

“Whoever advised you on that must have been wise,” the ambassador laughed once more.

“She tries to be, though I’m not wholly convinced just yet,” Jason smiled to her and placed his hand on hers.

“...How many holes are there?” Bebe asked. “That one seemed long and hard.”

“Eighteen,” Constantine plainly stated. “Though I don’t think our fathers will make us play all of them if we don’t want to.”

“How many do you guys want to play?” Bebe asked. “We could go back to the Palace and play some video games, or legos, or spar, or something like that. We can use Leo as the sparring dummy,” he laughed.

“I’d like to play all the remaining holes,” Constantine said. “If you guys don’t mind.”

“I wouldn’t mind a couple more,” Leo seconded. “Besides, I wouldn’t want to have to beat Nate at whatever we play back at the Palace.”

“As you wish, your Highness,” Bebe deferred to Constantine. “If you want to play eighteen holes, so shall I.” Your father likes playing all the holes too, I hear.

After another drink, Nathan grinned and said to Antonia, “Dr...look over there, you see that?” he gestured to the area behind him with his thumb.

Antonia turned around to see what Nathan was pointing at. “What am I looking for,” she chuckled.

With Antonia looking behind him, Nathan sniggered a bit before composing himself, and leaning forward to plant a kiss on her lips. Well, the Gods can never fault me for being timid.

With his lips on hers, Antonia went along with it for a moment before gently pushing him back. “I can’t,” she simply said.

“You just did!” Nathan laughed after she gently pushed him away. “Is there anything more benign than a kiss? That alone isn’t cheating, which by no means would I ever force you to do. Yet, by the kiss, my passion be known,” he nodded, taking a step back while smiling. “And now you know...and knowing is half the battle. Words don’t adequately convey feelings, and I just wanted to share them. So I have, and at no cost to you!”

“I shouldn’t have, it was a mistake,” Antonia told him, clearly flustered. “I’m set to get married soon, and I hardly know you outside of a visit years ago and today. And your reputation alone…” she stopped. “Sorry, that was incredibly rude of me, I...I should probably leave.”

Nathan did something that he never did, which was take out a business card from his pocket. “Here’s my card, feel free to give me a call sometime. The worst mistake one can ever make is denying their feelings. In case I don’t see you, enjoy your wedding. And remember, there is nothing for you to apologize for. My reputation…” Nathan began to explain, “consists of sharing my feelings with others, and them doing the same with me. Sometimes it leads to something significant, sometimes not, but that’s ok. Life is about finding out...nothing feels worse than wondering what could have been. So there’s my card, Dr. Antonia Vera, and if you leave now, just know that the thing I want the most for you is to be happy.”

Antonia took the card from Nathan and looked at it, before putting it in her back pocket. She fiddled with the ring on her finger. “Do you want to know what I liked best about you after we met the first time?” she asked, but didn’t give him an opportunity to answer. “That you didn’t act with me the way he did with Julia,” she said pointing to Jason Augustus. “I respected that,” she said before turning around to walk away.

There wasn’t really anything else to say to that, although Nathan knew it then. He remembered how Jason was with Julia...and he wanted to be different with Antonia. He was, but did he just ruin that? There was so much to think about, and the weight of her words made his eyes tear up, sending trickles down his cheeks. He wiped at them, before turning to walk away, looking for some high ground to contemplate her words. It didn’t matter to him if she contacted him or not...he was tired of being so greedy and selfish. He just wanted her to be happy, as he said...he really meant that. But now I must show it…

“Goodbye, Nathan,” Antonia said, ending the conversation.

IIwiki Admin · by **Ghant** » Mon Jan 11, 2016 1:35 pm

Palace of Augustus
Castellum ab Alba, Latium
30 April 2022

After a long day of golf, the two Emperors and the group of Princes were now back to the Palatine HIll. Jason was grateful that Marsella made an appearance at the country club, helping him take his mind off of his ever confusing wife and marital problems. Though the moment he returned, his blissful mind would be burdened again. Heading towards his chambers, where he expected his wife to still be pouting. Walking into the room, he was surprised to see it empty of anyone. The bed had been made, the windows open, allowing for the setting Castellum sunlight to shine into the room and then he noticed a few belongings of his wife were missing.

“Father,” Maria knocked on the open door of the room, drawing his attention.

“Did she leave?” he asked his daughter.

“For Constantinople, maybe three hours ago,” Maria shrugged. “Selene went with her,” she added. “I tried to keep Selene here, father, I did. What is even going on? Sophie wouldn’t even acknowledge me.”

Jason turned around to face his daughter. “It’s nothing you did. Just...adult problems,” he told her. “Come, let’s go see what is going on around the Palace. Trust me when I say that everything will be fine...but let’s keep this between you and I for now, ok.”

“Certainly. I trust you, father,” Maria smiled to Jason as they walked down the halls of the Palace.

Meanwhile, Michael was glued to his older brother’s side while Constantine was continuing to entertain his Ghantish Princely counterparts. He was showing off his and his brother’s section of the residence. It featured a large television, connected to popular game consoles, some of Constantine’s favorite books, as well as nearly anything a young boy would hope to play with.

“Where’s your GBOX?” John asked curiously. “I am pretty good at Paragon, if you have that, maybe we could play.”

“It should be right over here,” Constantine walked over to the television and opened a cabinet where all the video games were stored. “Here it is, though I don’t think I’ve actually ever played this one,” he added, turning the game on and placing the disc in.

“It’s alright,” Crown Prince Nathan laughed sarcastically. “John likes to play as a good guy...I don’t mind playing a bad guy. My character isn’t afraid of doing whatever he needs to do to seal his power. Best stay out of his way.”

John sighed at this. “My brother isn’t afraid to sacrifice innocents in order to accomplish his goals.”

“It’s just a game stupid,” Bebe snapped back. “Like I would do anything of the sort in real life. Ask Leo if you don’t believe me.”

Leo reluctantly agreed with Nathan. “It is just a game, John. Not even our dear brother would consider sacrificing innocent people to make him better,” he said, adding the last part sarcastically.

“You see? Told you,” Nathan laughed, before he heard footsteps from outside the room.

Princess Blanche poked her head in, as if trying to go unnoticed. “Blanche!” Bebe cried out. “Go away. Men are talking, and you belong with the women. Go play with dolls and tea party or whatever it is you womenfolk do.”

“...Something is amiss regarding the Empress,” Blanche said. “We can’t find Selene either, as if they are...gone.”

“Probably took her potty or something,” Bebe snorted. “I swear, you girls always chirping about something. Leo should go play with them too, chirper that he is.”

“She can stay if she wants, Nate,” Leo chimed in.

“My...my mother?” Constantine asked worriedly. “Weren’t all the Princesses together earlier? They uh just didn’t disappear, right?” he continued to question while Michael was oblivious playing with some toys.

Nate looked at Leo harshly. “No, she will do as I command, as I am the eldest brother. You will too, or I will tell father that you were being rude.”

Blanche sighed. “I don’t know what’s going on...I just know that they are gone. Maybe you should ask the Emperor. I just came to spread the word...I should be going back now,” the girl shook her head as she ran back the way she came.

“Who cares?” Bebe chuckled. “Either they went potty or got abducted by aliens or something. Not like there is much we can do about it.”

“...Maybe we should find the Emperor and inquire,” John proposed. “Wouldn’t hurt.”

“I care. And I suppose you wouldn’t care if it were your mother and sister that people are talking about this way?” Constantine told Baby Nate in a rather stern tone, which was unusual for him. “That’s probably a good idea, John. You guys can stay here and enjoy the room if you like, I’ll go find my father.”

“Can I come?” Leo asked Constantine, to which he nodded.

Bebe, not wanting to offend someone he perceived as his social equal, kept his mouth shut. “Let’s get to it then...although what about Michael?”

“Michael,” Constantine shouted across the room. “Come, we’re off to find father,” causing Michael to scurry over to the boys. Poking his head out of the room, he saw a servant. “Have you seen the Emperor recently?”

“He and the Princess were headed towards the West Atrium, Your Highness,” the servant offered.

“The West Atrium eh?” Bebe asked rhetorically. “Let’s head that way then.”

“Such the detective,” Leo jokingly added.

“Let’s get going then,” Constantine said, leading the group that way.

Now nearing one of the many atrium rooms of the Palace, Jason continued to talk with Maria. “She has never cared much for me, father. I’ve never understood it,” Maria told him as they sat in the room.

“You haven’t done anything to slight her, Maria, ever. Sometimes, things like that are just out of our control,” Jason replied.

“...Some women are naturally resentful towards their husband’s children not of their own,” Marsella said as she leaned in a doorway. “I hope I am not interrupting. Tis true though, dear, that you have never done anything to anyone to earn resentment.”

“Not at all. Please, join us,” Jason smiled. “Maria, this is Lady Marsella Atmos. She is the Ghantish Ambassador to the LOTA. Though, I do believe she is correct here.”

“I know who she is, father,” Maria chucked. “That’s a silly way to act though,” she added to Marsella’s comment.

“Women often behave irrationally, as far as feelings are concerned,” Marsella mused as she took a seat adjacent to Maria. “You know what I think? That the Empress is just a tad bit insecure. Nothing that you should worry yourself over, dear.”

“I suppose that’s true,” Maria nodded. “Doesn’t mean it’s not childish.”

“Everyone reacts differently to a great many things, Maria,” Jason added.

“Are you two friends or something?” Maria then bluntly asked both her father and Marsella.

“Acquaintances due to politics,” Marsella nodded with a grin. “It is only natural I be on speaking terms with the Emperor as the LOTA Emissary from Ghant, my Princess.”

“Boys?” Isabella said at the sight of Constantine leading the Princes down the hall. “How was the country club?”

“It was fine, Aunt Bella,” Constantine told her. “We’re just looking for father. It seems my mother is missing.”

“Oh, I thought you knew already,” Isabella stated. “Maria told me she and Selene left for Constantinople.”

“Why?” Leo asked his mother.

“I’m not sure. Maria wasn’t sure,” Isabella finished.

“Where is mother and father?” Bebe asked in a demanding tone. “Are they aware of this situation?”

“I haven’t seen your father since you’ve been back,” Isabella said to Baby Nate, internally rolling her eyes at his demanding tone. “Though I believe your mother is aware the Empress has left.”

Isabella rolling her eyes didn’t go unnoticed by Bebe. The Crown Prince of Ghant often had dreams of what he would do to her should his father die. “Of course. Father is probably preoccupied with tending to mother.” With that, he walked past her, towards the west atrium.

“Here it is,” Constantine said after some more walking. Then he entered the atrium, finding his father, Jason; sister, Maria; and Marsella, whom he had seen earlier sitting with Jason at the golf course. “Father,” he asked upon his entrance. “Why did mother go to Constantinople?”

How the hell did he find out, Jason thought. “Your mother felt the Palace was a tad overcrowded at the moment, son. And I think she wanted to take Selene to finish up her new room at the Palace there.” Of course a lie, but hopefully he won’t see right through it.

“Why didn’t she say goodbye?” Michael added.

“I thought she did, before you went to bed last night,” Jason continued trying to cover for himself.

Bebe was as keen a prince as there was. “...she left in haste with Princess Selene, who was enjoying the company of my sisters. The Empress would not have interrupted that and caused my sisters distress unless she left the Palace in rage. I believe she must have left because she was upset.”

The Princess of Ghant had entered with Empress Sophia, and it was Blanche who posed the next question. “What would cause the Empress to leave the capital in distress?”

Discreetly, the Emperor of Ghant came to stand in the opposite hall near the entrance to the atrium, also unnoticed by Bebe. The Crown Prince shrugged and addressed Jason. “Perhaps because the Emperor neglected his marital vows. A quality in vogue among Emperors of late.”

“You boy!” Jason quickly stood up. “Had better watch your tongue. I figured with parents such as your own, you would have a better mind for manners,” he shouted at the Crown Prince, as nearly everyone seemed to be in the same room.

“Or what?” Bebe began to shout back. “Bold words coming from a man that flounders in his father’s shadow…”

“Enough!” The Empress bellowed as he winced red-faced and clutched at her belly. In a swift movement, she charged across the room grabbed her son’s arm. “Show some respect, son! This isn’t some lord, this is the Latin Emperor!” Then she turned her fierce dark blue eyes to Jason and with her face smokey, she said. “Forgive my son...he is a petulant boy. Alas, I would hope that you wouldn’t threaten a child.”

Bebe stood still, trembling before his mother’s wrath. The Princesses hung back in silence and watched, while Nathan hung back elsewhere, and signaled for his guards to gather, just in case there was need for them. Marsella knew better than to interrupt Sophia when she was in her fury...a truly rare event. She knew the look that Sophia was giving Jason...the same king a bear gave anything that might endanger its cub.

Not willing to stand down, due to his growing distaste for the Ghantish Crown Prince, Jason spoke. “That was not a threat. The boy has a wild mouth, and I’m relieved to see you at least recognize this…”

“Father,” Maria motioned for him not to lose his temper, especially given that a number of Praetorians entered the room after hearing shouting. “Brothers, come. I’m sure you have a book you’d like to read to us, Costas,” she said trying to at least draw Constantine and Michael out of the room.

“Leave us,” the Latin Emperor shouted to the Praetorians.

“He will learn,” Sophia said furiously as she departed the room with an eagle’s grip on her son’s arm, who proceeded to go with her meekly as if upon rubber legs. The Princesses of Ghant flew away like pigeons, and John turned to Leo and said, “we should go back to the Prince’s room now,” before carefully stepping away in caution.

Emperor Nathan watched the Praetorians, and once they were dismissed, he had his own Imperial Guards stand down and disperse. He leaned there in the doorway and sighed heavily with his face in his hand.

Jason leaned over a side table, placing his hands on it. He let out a large sigh, and ripped the table lamp out of the wall and threw it nearly across the room before sitting down on the adjacent couch.

Nathan watched the spectacle, and while initially planning on trying to relate to Jason’s frustrations regarding the Crown Prince, merely sulked off, trying to go unnoticed.

Marsella moved fast, transitioning to the other couch and placing a hand on his back in an attempt to sooth him. She didn’t speak, just let her hand and calm demeanor do the communicating for her.

“I’d disinherit that boy. He has repeatedly shown no respect,” Jason said, still upset.

“I did tell you he was bold,” Marsella rubbed his shoulders. “He may be disrespectful, but he is young. He could grow out of it, especially with the guidance of a good woman, in time.” Her hands went to massaging the back of his neck then.

“I certainly hope he does,” Jason added. “...I shouldn’t have done that in front of the other children,” he said beginning to calm down and feel relaxed.

“We all do things we shouldn’t have,” Marsella reassured him. “But if we learn from those mistakes, then we can use those experiences to make us better, wiser even. Come, let’s see you back to your chambers, eh? I think you could use some rest, to get your mind right.”

“I think that would be good,” Jason stood up, offering his hand to help Marsella stand.

Marsella reached out her hand and took his to help her stand. “The children will be responsive to how you handle the situation. They will look to you for leadership and guidance in what will be a difficult time for them. I know that you can provide that sense of security when the time comes for it to be shown.”

“I just need to spin this the right way,” Jason told Marsella, holding the door of the atrium open for her to exit with him. “Though that will come to me soon.”

“Of course,” she responded as Jason held the door open for her, allowing her to continue along. “All things come in time.”

The Imperial quarter’s weren’t far from the atrium the two were leaving from, but on the short walk, Jason felt the need to continue speaking of the ordeal. “I don’t wish to lie to my children. Nor do I want them to see me act in that abrasive manner.”

“Of course, that is very noble,” Marsella agreed, looking around the hall for the chambers.

“Here we are,” Jason pointed out as they arrived at the large double door leading into the chambers. He opened to door, revealing the cleanly made room, which was bare of most of the Empress’s belongings.

Marsella leaned in the doorway as she examined the room. “Such a shame, to give up so much, because of so little...”

“Everyone makes their choices,” Jason responded, closing one of the doors behind him. “I think I know that better than most.”

“...And what is your choice?” Marsella asked curiously with a raised eyebrow as she took a step inside the room.

“I don’t know, maybe resting my eyes. And at some point, a little of this,” Jason said before leaning in to kiss Marsella.

Marsella leaned in the rest of the way, and planted a kiss upon his lips. “Well, that’s a start,” she grinned like a girl.

“I lied, much more than a little of that,” he said with a wily smile, placing his hands on her hips and pulled her close for a much more intimate kiss.

...The intimacy of which she returned wholeheartedly, tongue and all. “...You might want to shut the other door…” she gasped, somewhat teasingly.

Jason pulled back momentarily and kicked the second door closed. Then he resumed with another passionate kiss, running his hand down her back, working to remove her dress.

“Someone’s eager,” she laughed between kisses as she helped him work at her dress, until it fell down to her ankles, leaving her bare. “It would appear as though I have misplaced my dress.”

Jason ran his hands along her back once more, making his way lower with another kiss. “Shame,” he said in a break. “I like it where it is.”

“Around my ankles?” Marsella exclaimed, feigning surprise. “I would prefer it on a coat hanger in the wardrobe at least!” she laughed before kissing him again, finding her hands working at his pants. “You know the rules of show and tell...I show you mine and you show me yours.”

“Oh a coat hanger, I can call someone in and get them right on that,” he joked. The Latin Emperor grinned at Marsella as he quickly removed his clothes, now nearly as bare as her. He pulled her in close for another kiss and said, “There we are.”

“I think it’s fine where it is,” she mused as she studied him over. “In fact, why don’t you let me see to it myself?” Grinning, she went down to get closer to her dress, but somewhere along the way, found herself near his groin, although that could have been the plan all along. Clever ruse.

Marsella slumped down on the bed before rolling onto her back. “Well...seems like we both needed that pretty badly…” she trailed off before laughing.

“You have no idea,” the Emperor smiled to her, placing his arm around her. All he wanted to do was lie there for awhile, but he heard a phone buzzing off where the pile of clothes were.

“Well, at least they decided to call now and not five minutes ago,” Marsella laughed again as she snuggled her newfound lover.

“Wouldn’t have answered then, won’t answer now,” he told her with a smile. “Whoever it is can wait a little while longer.”

“You should at least look to see who’s calling,” Marsella suggested to him. “If anything, it could be important, and you are in your refractory period anyway. Doesn’t hurt to look.”

The Emperor groaned as he rolled off the bed to walk to his phone. He dug through his pants, pulling out his phone, seeing that Sophie was calling. Staring at it for a split second, he walked back over to the bed and placed the phone on a bedside table drawer for the time being. “It can wait,” he told Marsella as he climbed back into the bed near her.

“As you say,” was Marsella’s response, content to just lay there and hold him close to her.

by **Lacus Magni** » Mon Jan 11, 2016 1:47 pm

Palace of Augustus
Castellum ab Alba
30 April 2022

Princess Maria sat in the large Princely quarters of the Palace with her two half-brothers and the Ghantish Princes John and Leo. Michael quickly returned to playing with his building block toys, just as if he had never left for the West Atrium. The oldest Latin prince, Constantine, browsed the small bookshelves to take his mind off the perceived embarrassment he was feeling from his father’s explosion. Unable to find something of interest he sat down in a chair next to Maria, and watched Leo play his video game.

“What’s wrong Costas?” Maria placed her phone down and asked Constantine, noticing something was off.

Constantine was one to rarely show or say how he was feeling, simply shrugged the question away. “Nothing,” he replied, not displaying his concern for his mother.

“Are you upset about Uncle?” Leo asked his cousin. “What was Nate even talking about?” he asked obliviously.

“It’s nothing we should concern ourselves with,” Maria calmly told Leo.

“It is something to learn about in time,” John seconded. “Now seems rather inopportune. Our time together is limited, I think we should try to enjoy it.”

“Exactly,” Maria nodded before looking back down at her phone to send a text.

“Can you show me how to play that game, John?” Constantine asked him. “We didn’t really get a chance before.”

“Well I bet Nate is getting yelled at right now,” Leo chuckled. Hopefully.

“Doubtful,” John countered. “Mother doesn’t yell. That isn’t her way.” John, like all of Sophia’s children, was very protective of her, John especially, considering the strong resemblance he bore to her. “Mother would be trying to help him understand couth.”

“That’s good,” Constantine stated. “Yelling doesn’t do anything except make things worse. Our mother never yells either...”

“I’m sure she’ll be back soon,” Leo smiled to him.

“What do you suppose our sisters are doing?” John asked Leo then, curious as always.

“I don’t know, probably playing with dolls or something else girly,” Leo stated.

“We should bring them here,” Maria pulled herself from her phone for a moment. “I wouldn’t mind a few other girls in this room full of princes,” she joked.

“Feel free to go get them then,” John suggested. “Perhaps Princess Isabella is near to them. I wonder how she is doing.”

“I think I will,” Maria smiled, standing up to go fetch the Ghantish Princesses and gracefully exiting the room. She walked down the hallways of the Palace in her yellow dress, past a number of servants and other Palace staffers. Soon enough, she made her way to Selene’s play room where she found the girls. “Princesses,” she knocked on the ajar door with a smile. “What are you up to?”

“Tea Party,” Sara smiled. “With Blanche, Val and Di.”

“I miss Selene,” Valerie pouted. “She was cute and I wanted to play dress up. It’s not fair.”

“Aww, poor Val,” Blanche said with hands on her hips. “I bet she will be back soon.”

“I bet not,” Valerie countered.

Not wanting to lie or disclose what little information she knew, Maria said, “I’m sure you’ll see her again soon. But the boys were wondering if you wanted to join them over in Constantine and Michael’s playroom. They’re just playing video games and I’m all alone over there,” she added with a smile.

“Video games are boring,” Valerie said as she folded her arms. “Stay here and have some tea.”

“Yeah,” Blanche agreed. “Let the boys play their stupid video games. What do you think, Di?” Although Diana was only four, Blanche felt a certain affinity for the girl, her also being a Princess of Ghant not of the Empress’s line.

“Do you want to have tea with us instead,” Diana smiled to Maria. “It’s a lot of fun! Sit next to me.”

“Sure. I’d love to,” Maria walked to the girls’ small table and took a seat. “It’s been forever since I’ve been to a tea party like this.”

“Why has it been so long?” Sara wondered as she poured Maria a cup.

“Because there aren’t other girls her age around here,” Blanche answered for her, confident this was the case. “Too many boys and Selene is too young.”

Maria took a sip of tea. “That is certainly part of the reason. But father has been making sure I focus on school more and more. So that would be another reason,” she said with a smile. “Was Selene having tea with you earlier?” the Latin Princess inquired.

“Yes, but she is very young and didn’t really understand,” Sara explained.

“I think that Di just liked not being the baby anymore,” Val laughed as she pet her sister’s head. “Are you a baby?” she asked her then.

“I’m not a baby anymore,” Diana told Val. “Right, Maria?”

“You certainly, aren’t,” Maria smiled to her younger cousin. “But, did she leave on her own or did the Empress come for her?” she snuck in another question.

“The Empress came and got her,” Blanche answered. “Then they were gone.”

“That’s odd,” Maria took another sip of tea. “Sorry if that ruined your fun, but I hope we can make up for that with the rest of your visit.”

“We are making due,” Sara reassured Maria. “There are still five of us here now, which should serve.”

“Do you like boys?” Valerie asked Maria.

“Val,” Sara reprimanded her sister, “you shouldn’t ask that.”

“Why not? She’s a big girl, and big girls like boys,” Valerie pointed out.

“Most of em do anyway,” Blanche giggled.

“It’s alright,” Maria laughed. “And yes, I do like boys. Though before you ask, no I don’t have a boyfriend,” she added as that was the usual follow up question she received.

“Why not?” Valerie asked, curiously. Sara and Blanche began to pay close attention to what the response might be.

“I...uh, well I don’t really have a good answer for that,” Maria covered with a laugh, even though she knew her father was most of the reason, but she knew she couldn’t say that.

“Maybe it is because you haven’t met the right one for you yet,” Sara said with a smile. “Mother says that true love awaits us all, and that we have to be patient for it.”

“Difficult to meet anyone when you haven’t been on a date before,” Maria sighed slightly, running her finger around the lip of her cup of tea. “But I’m sure your mother is right, Sara.”

“A date?” Valerie asked. “Like on a calendar?”

“No,” Maria laughed. “Like going out with a boy you like. It’ll happen soon though.”

“Do you like anyone?” Blanche probed. “Val likes Constantine.”

“Nuh-uh,” Valerie shouted back.

“Aww, little Costas,” Maria smiled. “He’s a very nice boy if you can actually get him to open up. But do I like anyone?” she asked rhetorically. “There are a few cute boys that I go to school with, but I don’t like them that way.”

“Which one of our brothers is the cutest?” Blanche asked as she leaned forward, resting her chin in her hands.

“They’re all very cute in their own way,” Maria replied, not wanting to pick out one of them above the rest.

“...Even Bebe?” Blanche giggled, causing Valerie to join in. Sara maintained a cool reservation to that particular inquiry.

“Yes...even Bebe,” Maria agreed. “We all have our, um moments.”

Then there was a knock at the door and Princess Isabella poked her head in. “Sorry to interrupt girls. Oh, Maria, just who I wanted to see,” she said. “Have you seen your father anywhere?”

“The last I saw him he was in the West Atrium still,” Maria told her aunt. “...With Lady Marsella.”

“Hello your Highness,” Sara said with a smile. “Are you feeling alright?”

“I am, thank you for asking, Sara,” Isabella smiled back. “Enjoying your tea party. Sure looks like Diana is,” she added, now standing next to her daughter.

“We’re talking about boys, mother,” Diana smiled up to Isabella.

“Boys, huh? Watch out for them,” Isabella joked.

“Where’s father, anyway?” Blanche wondered. “Haven’t seen much of him at all today. He must be brooding over something.”

“I believe he is with the Empress,” Isabella guessed. “But I’m not sure exactly.”

“He’s not,” Sara clarified. “Mother took Nathan off so they could speak alone. Father...not sure where he is, but not there.”

“Ah, well there you have it,” Isabella replied. “I should leave you girls to your tea and boys talk,” she patted Diana on the back before she began to walk out of the room.

“Where do you think he is then, Sara?” Diana asked her sister.

“Somewhere by himself,” Sara presumed. “He does like some alone time after all. I doubt he is far away though, and if we call upon him, he will be here.”

“We should see if he want’s some tea,” Diana beemed. “What do you think, Maria?”

“I’m just a guest at your party,” the Latin Princess smiled. “It’s up to you girls who you invite.”

“Isabella!” Blanche called out after she ran to the door. “If you find father can you tell him he is invited to our tea party?”

“Of course,” Isabella nodded to Blanche, then continued on her pace out of the door. She walked slowly down the hall of the Palace. It reminded her of her childhood; running around the building, chasing Isadora and sometimes her brothers. After living in Ghish, she grew to appreciate her home more than ever now.

Sara’s intuition regarding her father proved correct. The Emperor of Ghant was in his chambers, sitting in a chair and watching television...hockey to be specific. He was a fan of the sport, and took the opportunity to compare Levantian and Ghantish hockey, playstyles and all.

Nearing Nathan’s room, Isabella decided it best to knock and see if he was there. “Nathan, are you there?” she knocked at the door. I wonder if Jason is with Lady Marsella still? she thought of what Maria told her.

Hearing Isabella knock on the door, Nathan got up and went to it, knowing whose voice that was. When he opened the door, he grabbed Isabella by the waist and pulled her into him for a kiss.

Isabella kissed him right back. “Someone is thirsty,” she laughed to him. “What are you doing?”

“Hopefully you in about five to ten minutes,” Nathan laughed as he shut the door behind them.

Isabella smiled and kissed him again. “I think I have five minutes to kill,” she joked with him. “But the girls were looking for you.”

“For what?” Nathan asked as he kissed her neck and deftly felt her bosom. “Tea party perhaps?”

“Mhmm,” Isabella nodded as he started at her. “Sara, Valerie, Blanche, Diana and Maria,” she said tugging at his belt.

“It’s a big palace...they shouldn’t be surprised if it takes me a bit to show up, and it isn’t like they will be doing much else in the meantime,” he told her as he slid a hand between her thighs. “Thirty six and you still know how to get my full attention,” he mused as he found himself quite eager for her. “The fact that you are mother to such fantastic children makes me want you even more.”

Isabella shoved him back onto the bed and kissed him again. “They’re your children too,” she said between kisses. “I suppose you can take at least 20 percent credit for how fantastic they are,” she said playfully.

Falling back on the bed, he pulled her close to him and kissed her passionately while groping her behind and the small of her back. “20 percent eh?” Nathan asked rhetorically whilst laughing. “That’s a percentage I think I can live with. You know what is 20 percent? The odds that your dress is going to tear when I rip it off of you,” he told her as he zealously tried to strip her bare.

“I’d hope it’s a lower percentage than that,” Isabella attacked his shirt after working out of her dress. “I happen to like this dress very much,” she finally wiggled halfway out of it.

“I will let you take yours off, and I will take off mine, that way there is no ripping,” he grinned as he began to shake off his clothes. “Aside from your cooch, of course.”

“Oh yeah, hockey is on, that’s what I was watching before you came...no pun intended,” Nathan sniggered.

“That was a late answer,” she patted her hand on his chest. “Who’s playing?”

“I don’t know, I was hoping you could tell me...I think it’s towards the end of the regular season or the first round of the playoffs, but I don’t recognize the teams,” he answered as best he could.

“Hmm, let me see,” she said squinting at the television. “Looks like Galata is playing Tourni. Tourni always wins. But I don’t know if this is playoffs or not. Seems intense though.”

“Is it bad that I don’t know where those places are on the map?” Nathan chuckled lightly as he footsied her.

“I still don’t know where some places in Ghant are,” Isabella smiled to him. “So I don’t think so,” she added, planting a kiss on his cheek. “Are you still planning on going to the tea party?”

“Yeah, but I don’t want to...I would rather be right where I am now. Besides, do you think it is bad to go to a tea party just after having sex?” he wondered as he felt her behind.

“I’d much rather keep you right where you are,” Isabella grinned to him. “I don’t think it is bad, but uh...I’d wind down a little,” she said looking down his body.

“...We could always go together,” he smiled. “I don’t think the girls would mind that, do you?”

“I doubt they’d mind. And besides, I’m be honored to be your date,” Isabella grinned to Nathan. “But I think a quick shower is in order first.”

“Let’s do that then...if I can muster the strength to get out of bed,” he sighed as he wrapped an arm around her and kissed her.

“If I can manage to get up, you very well can,” Isabella joked while she stood up next to the bed, trying to coerce Nathan up. “Well, I’m going to start the water.”

“Alright, I am coming...again,” Nathan laughed as he got out of bed and went into the bathroom.

Isabella had the shower running and disappeared into the steamy bathroom, only to reappear after a few minutes. She picked up her clothes and began dressing herself once she dried.

Nathan went with her, if only because showering with somebody was so much better than otherwise. He put on a green tunic and slacks after he dried himself off. “That was fast. You certainly don’t lack for efficiency.”

Isabella put the last strap of her dress over her shoulder and said, “I can go fast when I desire. I just like to make you wait sometimes.”

“What else do you desire?” Nathan asked her as he stood behind her and nuzzled her neck. “More we time after the tea party?”

“Oh, I could die for some tea, Your Majesty,” Isabella said sarcastically. “You always want more, don’t you?” she grinned. “We’ll see though, won’t we?”

“Suffice it to say that I am never satisfied.” With a playful pat on the rear, he emerged into the hall, and walked towards where he recalled the girl’s playroom was located. “I need to brush up on my tea party etiquette too.”

“I have no doubt the girls will keep you on your toes,” Isabella smiled to Nathan as she wrapped her arms around one of his while they neared the playroom. Gaining vision into the room, Isabella noticed Maria constantly sneaking looks to her phone. “Knock knock, ladies,” she announced their entrance.

“Did you find father?” Blanche asked when she heard Isabella. Like prairie dogs, they perked up at the sound.

“She did,” Nathan said as he entered the room and scooped up Blanche to give her a hug and kisses on the face, to which she giggled. “Still have tea?”

“Plenty, father,” Sara smiled. “I shall pour some more cups.”

“Hello, father,” Diana beamed to Nathan, followed by a greeting from Maria.

“Hi, Nathan,” Maria smiled to the Ghantish Emperor. “The tea is great.”

“That’s good to hear,” he responded as he set Blanche down her chair and picked up Diana, so he could hug her and plant kisses on her forehead, cheeks and nose. He went to tickle her too. “Has this one been good? If not I am going to tickle her feet!”

“I’ve been very good, father. Right, Maria?” Diana said.

“Oh, I’m not sure,” Maria smiled playfully to the girls. “She might deserve that tickle to the feet.”

“...Is that right? You may have been good, but that won’t stop the tickle monsters!” he exclaimed as he held her and began tickling her feet to elicit a reaction.

“No...no!” Diana pleaded while she began giggling uncontrollably from her feet being tickled, causing Isabella and Maria to both laugh as well.

The other girls laughed along, and after a few moments, Nathan stopped and took a seat at the table with Diana in his lap. He stroked her hair and reached out for his cup. Taking a sip, he said, “oh, this is very good indeed. “What do you think?” he asked Diana.

“Best tea ever, father,” Diana smiled. “And maybe the best tea party so far. I’m happy you could come.”

“I am too,” he told her before kissing the top of her head. “So what have you girls been talking about?”

“Girl things,” Valerie answered. “You wouldn’t understand, father.”

“Yeah!” Blanche seconded coyly. “Boys don’t understand. Right, Maria?”

“They certainly don’t,” Maria smiled, taking a sip of tea.

“Oh, I don’t know, girls. Your father is a very understanding man,” Isabella added. “I think he could if he tried hard enough.”

“Oh yeah?” Valerie asked with hands on her waist. “Maria, you should test him and see.”

“Yes, Maria, you could do that,” Blanche agreed. “Can you?”

“Hmm, let me think of a question. I don’t want to make it easy on you, Uncle,” Maria pondered. “And no help from you, Aunt Bella. That would be cheating,” she smiled. “Ok, here we go. How do us girls french braid our hair?”

“French braid your hair?” Nathan wasn’t sure, but couldn’t give that away. “That’s just another braid., which involves the entwining of hair in a certain pattern.”

“Nope,” Blanche shook her head. “You lose. We win!”

“Diana, what’s a french braid?” Nathan asked his youngest daughter.

“Watch father, I can teach you,” Diana told her father. “Maria, can I do it to your hair?”

“Certainly,” Maria replied as her younger cousin hopped out of Nathan’s lap and stood behind Maria. Diana began to do the braid, taking a few minutes to complete it. While not perfect, it would still suffice.

“Just like that, father,” Diana smiled. “It’s not that hard.”

“How does it look, everyone,” Maria showed off her hair to the whole room.

“It looks good,” the Emperor commented after observing. “How did you learn how to do that...you are only four!”

“We taught her,” Valerie smiled, with Blanche nodding in unison.

Sara spoke then as she looked up from her tea. “Proper ladies know all of the techniques for hair styling.”

“I had great teacher,” Diana smiled to her older sisters, proud of the braid she did on her cousin’s hair.

“I love it, Diana,” Maria told her, as she looked at her hair in a mirror from across the room.

“So girls, do you think he understands enough now?” Isabella asked, sipping from her tea.

“...Maybe a little,” Blanche answered, doing the same.

“I like your braids, they are really good,” Nathan said to Diana, before looked at the other girls. “Well, I am ok with that. I wouldn’t expect to know too much girl stuff...that really isn’t my area of expertise. Isabella knows quite a bit though...don’t you?”

“Believe it or not, I was a young girl once,” Isabella joked. “So I can help translate for him if need be.”

“You still look as radiant as ever, Auntie Bella,” Maria told her beloved aunt.

“When did you start liking boys?” Valerie asked Isabella curiously.

“Probably around Maria’s age, well maybe a few years before that,” Isabella honestly replied.

“Maria is...fourteen,” Sara observed. “So around...eleven or twelve?”

“Yup,” Isabella nodded. “Our school had a dance, and I begged mother and father to let me go. I think that was when I had my first crush on a boy.”

“Who was he?” Blanche probed, as was her way.

“What was his name...Georgius something,” Isabella replied. “Can’t for the life of me remember his last name. But he was very cute from what I remember.”

“What was the your brother the Emperor like when he was little?” Sara asked then.

“Yes, I’d love to hear more about father,” Maria added.

“He was very athletic, and a very clever boy,” Isabella began. “Maybe not all that interested in school, but you could tell that he was always thinking of a way to get what he wanted. I remember one time, we were maybe eight and seven, he came up with this whole convoluted plan to get the cookies that our mother hid from us. He was the planner of the family, always trying to fix or find a way to accomplish whatever it was he or the rest of us kids wanted. I really do think that he was born to serve as he does...and he knew it,” she went on.

“...Was he always so mean?” Blanche asked her with a sad face.

“Why do you think he’s mean?” Isabella asked the young Princess, while Maria looked on eagerly for her answer.

“Because he yells at people and speaks condescendingly,” the young princess responded.

“He yelled at Nathan!” Valerie added afterwards.

Sara, meanwhile, suggested that, “he just seems to be under a great deal of duress.”

“I think that is the best explanation,” Maria nodded.

“We all have our moments of outbursts,” Isabella said, holding her cup of tea. “Even adults. My father always said that everyone responds differently to a stressful situation.” Though he has been much meaner as of late.

“Maybe we should invite him for tea,” Valerie suggest with a smile. “Do you think he would like that?”

Isabella took a long sip of tea before she was going to respond, but Maria spoke instead. “I think father is going to be busy for awhile...he doesn’t get a lot of free time normally. So he’s probably going to try and catch up on some work if he can.”

“Of course...work,” Isabella added semi-sarcastically.

“It’s alright. You have me and Isabella,” Nathan reassured them. “Does that work for you, Diana?” he asked his daughter while he bounced her on his knee.

“Yes, daddy,” Diana nodded with a large smile. “I’m having lots of fun anyway!” Diana took notice of Maria pulling out her phone after it vibrated. “What are you doing?”

“Oh, it’s just a text,” Maria smiled to her cousin. “Nothing really,” she placed her phone to the side.

“...From who?” Blanche wondered, asking with a smirk, while Valerie leaned forward with a raised eyebrow.

Maria lit the phone’s screen once more, the name John being illuminated before letting it go dark. “Just one of my girlfriends,” she stated with a red face.

“What’s she like?” Valerie asked, even though Sara appeared to be discontented.

“Forgive my younger sisters,” the Princess Imperial commented. “They love asking questions...about everything.”

“I’m used to it, Selene is the same way,” Maria said with a laugh. “She’s uh nice though,” the Latin Princess sipped at her tea as the phone buzzed again.

“Same friend?” Nathan asked his niece. “Either that or you are quite popular, which wouldn’t surprise me.”

“I think so,” Maria tried to casually nod. “I’m sorry, I should probably put it away or something so it doesn’t interfere again.”

“You’re free to step out if you’d like, Maria,” Isabella told her niece. “This is your home after all.”

“You sure you don’t mind?” Maria asked the group.

“I don’t mind...not one bit,” Nathan chuckled as he raised his tea cup. “Cheers to friends.” Sara, Valerie and Blanche all followed suit.

“Cheers,” Maria added, finishing what remained in her glass. “Thank you for inviting me to your wonderful tea party, girls,” she added, pushing in her chair. “I had a great time,” the Princess said before exiting the room and sliding open her phone to respond back to this mysterious person.

“Thank you for coming,” Sara said to Maria as she left. “Same to you, your Highness and father.”

“I was happy to,” Nathan smiled before turning to Isabella. “Thanks for coming, Isabella...”

IIwiki Admin · by **Ghant** » Mon Jan 11, 2016 1:49 pm

Villa Ravennae
Ravenna, Sorrentia, Latium
9 June 2024

Ravenna was abuzz by the recent and unexpected visit of the Emperor to the former Imperial capital. The home of the Claudius Nero family in the city, the Villa Ravennae, now saw the many servants and even the occasional government official run through the many halls and rooms of the Palace. Built in the 18th century, the Villa was built in a baroque style, making setting it apart as unique from most of the other Imperial residence. Most often, the Villa served as a residence for the Emperor and his family during parts of August and September, making any visit outside of that timeframe appear unusual.

Many speculated the reason for the visit, especially why the Empress Sophie was absent from the city. But what many were unaware of was the guest the Emperor brought along for the trip. Travelling along was Lady Marsella Atmos, whom he had been romantically involved with for nearly two years, after he had come to terms and accepted the entirely broken state of his marriage. For those two years, he had managed to keep this relationship a secret from seemingly everyone close to him. Not because he was ashamed, on the contrary, around Marsella he felt better than he had in years or at least since before his marriage to Sophie.

In the main dining hall, Jason ate his breakfast, nothing an overly extravagant, simply some toast, fruit, and a cup of coffee. Dressed down in a pair of athletic shorts and t-shirt, he expected a relaxed day with Marsella; one where he wouldn’t be bothered by most of the tasks required by his office. Reading the local paper, he read the headline, which read, “Emperor travels to Ravenna; Empress missing?” causing him to roll his eyes as he sipped his coffee.

“One would assume from the media that Sophie and you are attached at the hip,” Marsella mused in a sun-dress as she sat opposite of Jason at the table. “Wouldn’t that be fun?”

“What a fucking nightmare that would be,” Jason said, flipping the paper over to read a different section. “These people love to get carried away with things. One thing out of the ordinary for even a second and bam, they spin a million different crazed theories,” he added, snapping his fingers.

“Like the ones about you being a reptilian that drinks the blood of sacrificed virgins, and that Sophie witnessed such a spectacle, explaining her...distance from court life?” Marsella asked sarcastically.

“Oh, that isn’t a rumor,” Jason joked. “We have our little sacrifice ceremonies every other week.”

“...I think I would have noticed something like that by now,” she told him with narrowed eyebrows, belied by the amusement in her voice. “She was always the reptilian one.”

“That would explain more than a few things,” Jason smiled, finishing his coffee. “Luckily, it is just you and I,” he said standing up from his chair and began walking toward Marsella. “And she isn’t here.”

“Such a shame,” Marsella responded coyly. “How am I to ever fill the void left behind by the likes of Sophie Augusta?” This was followed by a mirthful sip of tea. “I suppose I will have to try in any event.”

“If anyone is up to the task, I certainly think it is you. But will go above and beyond when the Emperor requires?” he grinned, sitting down in a chair next to her.

“...Probably when the Emperor least expects it,” Marsella laughed as she rubbed his shoulder.

“Like I said, up to the task,” the Emperor smiled to her. “How does the beach sound? I can have the Praetorians close it off for the two of us,” he asked.

“The beach sounds agreeable enough. Might as well close it off...wouldn’t want the press to get the wrong idea,” she suggested politely, always careful to consider how she appeared in the public eye.

“Naturally. Who knows what those vultures would do,” he nodded. “Shall we?” he stood again, holding his arm out for her to accompany him down to the beach, which the Palace was located just on the edge of.

“Of course,” she said after finishing her tea and standing up. “After you, then.”

The two were led out of the building towards the western entrance, where the beach was visible off below in the distance. A guard opened a car door for Jason and Marsella and said, “We’ll head down in a few moments, Dominus. There are a few rowdy people proving difficult to move.”

“Just drive down anyway,” Jason ordered the Praetorian. “I’m sure your men will have it solved by then,” to which the guard nodded. “I swear it’s always someone,” he told Marsella as the car began make the quick drive.

“I wonder what cause they would have to be so rowdy?” Marsella wondered, but not for long. “Perhaps due to your solo appearance.”

“Maybe someone caught wind that you were in town as well,” he told her, placing his arm around her. “I can’t blame someone for wanting to catch a glimpse of you.” he added as the car pulled up to the beach, with three Praetorians forcing a man holding a camera to vacate before physically removing him.

“It’s all clear, Dominus,” a Praetorian said after the guards dragged the photographer away to a safe and very far distance away, while another opened the doors for the two passengers.

“Must be anti-Ghantish activists. It’s no secret that Ghant has always held mixed reviews in Levantia. Things like culture and religion notwithstanding. As for me, well...someone as diverse as myself would probably be the subject of intense interest for those with a keen eye for such things,” she mused as she observed the goings on around them.

“Who could blame them, bunch of northern savages,” he said jokingly before stepping out of the car. “It’s no matter now, the beach is all ours,” he smiled, overlooking the large white sand covered beach with the light blue and green waters lapping in and out of the beach.

Marsella stepped out, sure to have her sunglasses put on. She took in the sights then, contented by the simple serenity. “So it would seem.”

While the two stepped out, other guards scurried around the beach to place some chairs down for them, as well as umbrellas and coolers containing both some food and drinks. Jason went for the cooler holding the drinks, sifting around for a beer. Finding one, he plopped down in one of the chairs with a large sigh, taking his shirt off after opening the beer. “One for you?” he asked Marsella, enticing her with his.

“Sure...I will take one,” she told him before sitting down in the seat next to his. “I don’t drink on the beach very often...opportunities to do so are always greatly appreciated.”

“Same,” Jason sipped his beer. “Any chance to relax like this is appreciated in my book. And...sharing your company uninterrupted, of course,” he added. “You don’t know how much I wanted to get away from the capital.”

“Can’t say I blame you there,” she laughed as she waited for her beer. “It is very political...it wears on you eventually, saps you of your energy. No wonder Nathan became so disillusioned by politics that he sees fit to mock it openly.”

“Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy politics and occasionally frightening first term senators,” Jason handed Marsella a beer. “But it takes its toll, as does...well you know,” he added, hinting at Sophie. “I might just stay in Ravenna indefinitely,” he said in a half joking manner.

“Why not? Your son is old enough to be made Junior Emperor soon enough, and when that time comes, let him have Castellum and then you can spend your days drinking on vacated beaches with the likes of me,” she shrugged. “The boy does have the right stuff, after all. Sharp for a boy his age.” Marsella accepted the beer and took a drink. “Not bad.”

“Pfft, maybe in another ten, fifteen years or so,” Jason brushed off the thought. “Sharp as he may be, I’d like for the boy to have as normal a childhood as possible. In time though,” he drank his beer. “What I could do is at least temporarily run things from here. That way we can still spend some days out here like this,” he thought out-loud.

“I don’t think anyone would fault you for wanting a little change of scenery. After all, it is not without precedent for an Emperor to hold temporary court elsewhere,” she agreed as she took another drink. “I do however think it prudent to allow the boy to familiarize himself with imperial duties. The best swimmers to play in shallow water when they are young. Prepares them for the deeper waters.”

“Perhaps once he wraps up secondary school,” Jason nodded. “And I haven’t even really named him heir yet. Not that he hasn’t already proven himself to very intelligent and willing to learn anything placed in front of him,” he looked out to the water. “But just how upset do you think Nathan and Sophia would be if I dragged you out of Castellum continually to be with me here?”

“I would need only say that it is a project related to the duties tasked upon me. After all, Latium is a key member of LOTA...so I were to attend a private retreat at the Emperor’s behest, would that not fall under the general purview of my responsibilities?” Marsella probed. “Nathan wouldn’t care either way, oblvious as he is, and Sophia would take me at my word.”

“Seems believable to me. Which is good, because I intend for plenty of retreats,” he told her, placing a hand on her leg. “Water looks nice, doesn’t it?”

“Indeed it does. Hard to believe how deep and vast it is sometimes,” Marsella observed of the ocean. “The true final frontier...say what you will about space. We know more about what is up there than we do about what’s down there.”

“I’ve always wanted to go to space,” Jason finished his beer, grabbing a fresh one. “One of the few things I’ve wanted and not actually received or been able to accomplish.”

“Well, you better get on that while you still have some youth about you,” she chuckled, taking a deep drink. “Commercial flights to space are not uncommon.”

“I had plans to do so...a long time ago,” Jason started, looking out to the sea. “But things happen and I don’t think or know if it’s thing I can do at this point.”

Marsella studied him with one eye, while keeping another on the sea. “One thing I learned from Nathan about being an Emperor is that, what’s the point in it if you can’t do as you please? Emperors that make their dreams a reality...those are the great ones. You will be great, Jason, as long as you dare to reach for the stars.”

“No disrespect to the man, but there is a tad more to being Emperor than finding pleasure for yourself. Which he seems to make sure he has often,” he took a long drink from his beer. “My grandfather told me to dream when I was a child. Told me to dream of the throne, for the people. I’d like to think that all the actions I have seen pass during my reign have been for their benefit. Those are my dreams now.”

“Nathan is a very flawed man...the sort that clings to comforts because he knows what it is like to hurt and be alone. We all cling to something. I know I do,” she responded softly, leaning back into her seat. “Some people cling to notions of love, or duty or something.”

“And what is it that you cling to, my love?” Jason ran his hand over her leg.

“Duty,” Marsella answered with a faint smile. “That’s the reason I am thirty-eight, unwed and childless.”

“If it makes you feel any better,” Jason said looking her in the eyes, now holding her hand. “You have been more of a wife, and a better friend, confidant, or lover than mine has ever been. And I can honestly say that I am thankful you entered my life.”

Marsella smiled from ear to ear at that. “You honor me gratefully with your kind words. I am grateful for the opportunity, and I can say with no uncertainty that you have likewise enriched mine.”

“I’m happy to hear that,” the Emperor smiled, while off in the distance guards were dealing with a comotion.

“Is my husband down there,” Sophie shouted. “Let me past immediately!”

“My Lady, this is a restricted area. We cannot let you past,” a Praetorian officer replied.

“I am not a lady, I am your Empress. Now I order you to let me past,” she continued to shout, causing Jason to poke his head up from his moment of bliss.

“Your Majesty, we only take orders from the Emperor. And you are not him,” the officer firmly stated.

“Fuck,” Jason said quietly, yet audibly enough for Sophie to hear him.

“Let her in,” Marsella calmly suggested. “It will only make things worse if you do not.”

“I’m so sorry,” he told Marsella with a kiss on the forehead before he stood.

Marsella for her part contented herself to finish her beer and disposed of the bottle so that she might better be able to compose and present herself to Sophie should the two meet. She sat back and observed, curious to see how things might unfold.

“Who is that?” Sophie shouted, finally getting past the guards when Jason waved them away. “Huh? I said who is that, Jason.”

“This is Marsella, Sophie,” Jason calmly stated.

“Marsella?” Sophie stopped about five feet from Jason, with Marsella in her view. “And you run away to be with her?” she shook her head in disbelief.

“Yes,” he continued with his calm demeanor.

Marsella thought it best not to interrupt. In a situation like this, she had an advantage. I am here on Ghantish business, she kept reminding herself. If Sophie were smart, she would avoid condemning herself with her own mouth...which remained to be seen.

“What...why are you even here, Jason?” Sophie questioned him.

“Because I can’t stand another damn second in that city. You...it was driving me crazy,” Jason attempted to cover his slip-up.

“I was driving you crazy? I was? Coming from the man who has driven me crazy based on the things I hear about you and your...behavior from the press. That’s laughable,” Sophie continued ranting. “And you?” Sophie looked to Marsella with anger. “Are you the latest woman my husband is cheating on me with?”

“I am the latest woman to serve Ghant in Latium, your Majesty,” Marsella answered politely. “I would encourage you to remember my status as emissary of Ghish, and that I am proxy of the Empress.”

“Does serving your Empress require you to sit here inebriated with my half-naked husband? And I would encourage you not to sleep with someone else’s husband,” Sophie snapped at Marsella, clearly on edge. “You lying son of a bitch,” she said to Jason, causing him to laugh.

“You’re hysterical. You know I meet with various diplomats from so many countries all the time. Is that this unusual?” he shot back to his wife. “Just go home. Please, go home.”

“Serving the Empress requires me to form a close working relationship with the Latin Emperor,” Marsella pointed out. “If you take exception to me, I would encourage you to communicate this exception to the Empress of Ghant. Also, thank you for the advice, your Majesty...it has been duly noted.”

“And just how close is that relationship? You two seem awfully friendly with each other,” Sophie questioned.

“...As close as it needs to be in order to be effective,” Marsella answered, calmly. “I must needs be friendly, if I am to be responsible for Ghant’s conduct in Latinum.”

“You are over reacting to something that isn’t even there. Jumping at ghosts,” Jason told Sophie. “And what more, you are embarrassing me, the people, the Senate and most of all yourself.”

Sophie slapped Jason in face after that, causing anger to appear in his eyes. “You’re a monster. I have been nothing but caring for you since day one and that is what you have to say? That I’m embarrassing you. I’ve had enough of this,” she began to tear up.

“Guard,” Jason shouted to his detail. “Please see to it that my wife finds her way back to the capital.”

“This way,” the Praetorian officer ordered the Empress away from Jason and Marsella.

“This is over, Jason,” Sophie yelled to Jason while she was being pushed away from the beach. “Have a good time with your new whore, you child.”

“...Sophia won’t be pleased about that,” Marsella mused quietly in response to being called a whore. “So self-righteous!” she spoke softly under her breath.

Sophie didn’t respond or possibly not even hear what Marsella said as she was whisked away by a small detail of guards and promptly taken away from the beach and the Villa grounds. “I’m sorry for that,” Jason told Marsella. “That shouldn’t have occurred.”

“If I were in her position I would find myself most content. I would be Empress and my son would be future Emperor. No cause for complaint. Yet, if you give a mouse a cookie it will want a glass of milk, will it not?” Marsella asked with a sigh.

“Not everyone is like you, certainly not her,” the Emperor slammed another beer away. “I hope she’s serious...on ending it.”

“That would be a PR nightmare,” she was quick to counter. “It will be hard to save face in light of that. Yet it almost seems inevitable at this point, given things seem beyond reconciliation.”

“If I can spin myself out of an excommunication, I should be able to survive something like this,” Jason nodded. “Though I can’t see Martin granting an annulment based on our shaky history. Can’t say I blame him...but yes, she seems pretty insistent and she doesn’t have any proof of our relationship, so she can’t harm you.”

“Of course...that’s because there is no proof...although she did condemn herself with her own mouth. You can plead that she is mentally infirm. If I were to tell Sophia that Sophie interrupted a private meeting, assaulted you and called me a whore, then how would that look? Not very good for Sophie,” Marsella explained, shrugging.

“A way out will present itself, and if it doesn’t...I’ll create one,” Jason opened another beer. “The church won’t do me any favors, even if I were able to use this outburst of her’s as evidence of her poor mental state. But I also need to consider the children,” he sighed, now realizing their place in this mess.

“Surely you don’t want them to think this sort of dysfunction is normal in a marriage,” Marsella observed.

“Naturally,” Jason agreed. “Maybe it would be best not to arrange marriages for them. Let them avoid this sort of disaster that comes from forcing two to wed. I wouldn’t want any of them to deal with that, especially Maria.”

“I agree,” Marsella nodded, before clearing her throat. “Although it wouldn’t hurt to make suggestions and expose them to preferred matches.”

“We’ll see,” Jason finished another beer, becoming noticeably intoxicated. “God, I didn’t know she could slap so hard,” he rubbed his face where Sophie’s hand met it before grabbing another drink.

“Heaven has no rage like love to hatred turned, Nor hell a fury like a woman scorned.” Marsella mused. “Take a beer and press it to your cheek. Might ease the sting a bit.”

The Emperor did as Marsella suggested. “Oh yeah, that hits the spot,” he leaned back in his chair. “You know what happens when she decides to pursue this though, don’t you?” he asked with a grin.

“She cuts off her nose to spite her face,” she answered. “As I said, a woman in her position ought to be content. Just look at Sophia. She is the Empress of Ghant, her son is Crown Prince, her position is solidified. She doesn’t care what Nathan does, so long as she has the throne in her grasp.”

“But unlike in Ghant, she doesn’t have the political power, only influence. And that was limited to as much as I allowed her, which was none,” he looked at Marsella and then out to the water. “No, instead I was thinking that I’ll be ‘single’ again,” he added a playful wink.

“Well, you can stay that way if you saw fit. After all, you have no need for anymore heirs. I would say the single life suits you best anyway,” Marsella laughed.

“I suppose I could, but there are many who say an Emperor must always have an Empress at his side,” he hinted. “What are your thoughts on that?”

“Well, the wrong one can certainly make things harder,” Marsella laughed heartily. “But the right one can help...lighten the load, so to speak.”

“Don’t I know that,” Jason leaned in while laughing. “I know you would be able to lighten the load. Better than anyone else I can think of.”

That certainly took her aback, causing her to nearly choke on her drink and her eyes go wide. “...Me? As Latin Empress? I am hardly worthy of the honor. My mother was the lowest of lowly Latin noblewomen from a bygone province, and my father is from an impoverished Nathian mountain house. Hardly Empress material.”

“Yet despite all of that, here you sit,” Jason comforted her. “If I had cared about social positions I wouldn’t have married Stephanie and not been blessed with Maria. Stephanie’s father was the son of a lord, but wouldn’t inherit, and her mother was a primary school teacher. It didn’t stop me then, the standing of your parents or your family won’t stop me now.”

It took a time for what he was saying to soak in, causing her to sort of stare at the sand and sea while twiddling with her hair. “...I suppose if you would have me, I would be in no position to refuse. They say that the third time’s a charm...I would certainly try to deliver upon the adage.”

“You don’t need to answer now, and there is no pressure should you refuse...but I don’t suspect you would,” he added, placing a hand on hers. “Third time certainly is a charm. When the dust settles, you’ll be my Empress,” he smiled.

“Why wait to answer?” Marsella spoke up in a slightly shaking voice. “I accept.” Just then she leaned forward and kissed him on the lips.

Jason kissed her back with equal passion. “If I knew today was going to go like this, I would have had a ring handy for you,” he kissed her once more. “Come on, what do you say we hop in the water. You can swim can’t you?”

“Of course I can swim,” she teased him. “And don’t worry about a ring...trinkets are overrated anyway.”

“Oh, good,” he smiled as he picked her up and carried her towards the water’s edge. “Because I really can’t, so please save me if I begin to struggle,” he joked with her.

“Will do, Augustus,” she laughed in his arms as he carried her to the water.

Imperial Affair (Closed)

Imperial Affair (Closed)

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