Court 07/08/2001

["L. Alexander Ashlar" <endymion@tm.net.my>]

Imperial Selamlik -- Imperial Palace (Kaitain)

         The Imperial Selamlik, the throne room of His Majesty the Emperor 
of the Known Universe, is a massive, elongated hall in the baroque style. 
The gold leafed walls to the East and West slope gently upwards, forming a 
gentle set of delicately detailed arches with triangular recesses. Inside 
one of these, along the East wall, is the black desk of the Emperor's 
personal secretary. The ceiling, culmination of the arches is a rectangular 
enclave filled with carvings of the finest detail. A soft golden light 
drifts downward, filling the chamber with a warm golden-red hue. The floor 
is of bare, sheer black granite, polished to perfection, absorbing light 
and throwing only a subtle reflection. Against the oval shaped, far North 
wall, atop a 5 foot dais sits the imposing Golden Lion Throne, housed under 
an enclosing cowl, 7 meters tall and 6 meters wide. Two narrow, golden 
pillars seem to support the cowl from either side of The Lion Throne. 
Behind the Throne, to the rear of the dais dozens of elegant, golden 
pillars line the north wall. High Imperial Noukker Honor GUARDS stand at 
intervals in the chamber, leaving the dais itself a respectful distance.


The doors to the massive hall open for the Alvstad contigent, two 
particularly distinguished-looking gentlemen standing out against the 
lesser diplomats and pages. The now recognizable Regent-cum-Warmaster 
indicates the rear of the room with a nod, and the entire entourage moves 
into place slightly to the right of the entrance.
Pers stands in the back of the room.

The Chancellor sweeps into the room in a swirl of white, crimson and black. 
Though not particularly tall, he moves with a precise grace to stand right 
where he should, to the right of the Imperial Throne. His eyes sweep the 
chamber, noting the positions of everyone present.

And trailing the distinguished parties bent for the far right side of the 
room, the Harkonnen siege tower that is the General Maas-Stroheim lumbers 
forth from the mouth of the western portal. Silent and gloomy as always, 
the golem of sinew and knotted muscle brings his mountainous bulk toward 
the rear of the great selamlik, uniform aglitter with the precious 
trappings of rank and medallions.

The Moritani contingent arrives, led by their Countess. Quickly, seeing 
that the place is nearly filled, they move towards an alcove in the East, 
the Countess on the arm of her distant cousin, Anatole.

The Rastanyev dom-Tsara and her retainers stand to the rear of the room, 
sufficiently low-key talking quietly amongst themselves. Nigh unto 
whispering actually, all but the regent-elect herself. She seems somewhat 
distraught, tapping her fan atop her palm.

Bathed in ostenticity, the Venhei contingent stands in the western alcove, 
alone and undisturbed. With polite nods to those of importance, the 
Minister seems content to give introductions to his little group, and keep 
his House as demure as possible. No need to upset.

The Atreides contingent has by now settled in quietly in the easterm 
alcove, trying to draw as little attention as possible towards themselves 
as possible. Probably this has to do with the faux-pas some of it's members 
comitted during the last courtsession. anyone on this of all days.

A trumpet flourish sounds. An Honor Guard announces loudly, "His Most 
Imperial Majesty, The Padishah Erich Ladislas Corrino, Emperor of the Known 
Universe!"

With a loud thump, the Golden doors leading from the Leonine chamber swing 
open. The staccato clap of Noukker boots rings throughout the cavernous 
Selamlik as His Majesty's personal guard enters and parts into two long 
aisles. With a final strike of heels upon granite the two aisles of guards 
turn toward one another and The imposing soldier-guards turn towards the 
center in unison and make way for the Emperor.

The Padishah Emperor, Erich I, enters with a purposeful stride, his short 
cape fluttering slightly as he moves towards the dais and ascends its 
steps. He turns and faces the assembled nobles, gesturing for Yolinar to 
speak. His motions are a bit abrupt and clipped ... that, taken in 
combination with his stony expression seems to suggest he is not in the 
most generous of moods today.

Eduard rises from his seat on the dais, languidly, to bow as the Emperor 
enters. He holds the bow, averting his gaze.
Erich stands in the area before the Golden Lion Throne.
To the thunderous, brassy blair of trumpets, the Chancellor raises his 
powerful tenor to carry over the trumpets. "All hail His Sublime Majesty, 
the Padishah Emperor Erich Ladislas Corrino, first of his Name, Emperor of 
the Known Universe!"
He bows deeply to the Emperor.

Upon the appearance of His Imperial Highness, the towering Harkonnen 
Warmaster bows his stony mass in obsequience to the presence of the Lion; 
remainig thusly until the Emperor sits, it is perhaps a wonder to him that 
the First Son of Kaitain manages to look as gloomy and grave as he does.

 From the back of the room, Pers tosses back his heavy whalefur cape with 
his left hand as he bows stiffly before the Emperor, gray-green eyes cast 
neither to the floor nor towards the Emperor, but rather discretely to the 
sides as he observes his peers. Having taken one look at the Emperor's 
visage, he has judged the reactions of others more important for the time 
being.

Ophelia, as everyone else does, dips into the expected curtsy and holds 
there until given the word to rise. Her ebony-tressed head dips forward as 
she casts her eyes downwards.

The Rastanyev contigent sinks lowly, in a vaguely imperfect unison, toward 
the back of the hall. Perfectly stil...
 From the east alcove, Margot lightly takes the hems of her dress and 
curtseyes, her eyes cast down at the floor in the presence of his sublime 
majesty.

Anatole bows his head, and body in the proper form, gracefully and 
smoothly, casting not a glance to the emperor.
Setzer slides quite easily into his statuesque state, head and eyes lowered 
toward the ground in a low bow toward the Lord and Master of all.

Marco bows low to the Emperor while focusing his eyes on the floor.

Martin bows deeply to the Emperor as the Chancellor speaks. He casts eyes 
towards the beautifully decorated floor.
Germina stands next to Setzer, curtseying properly and deeply, eyes cast 
downward.

Deirdre curtsies respectfully, her gaze lowered.

Wilhelm bows crisply, looking away from his majesty, glancing only briefly 
at the others at court this night.

Erich speaks as the collected nobles bow, his voice rising over the muffled 
sounds in the chamber -- a bit of hoarseness evident in it, "We grant 
audience to all in attendance and are kindly disposed to consider all 
rightful petitions from our loyal subjects." He turns his gaze to Yolinar 
as he takes his seat upon the throne. "Viscount Fenring ... you may commence."

Klaude bows to the throne as he quietly joins the rest of the Alvstad.

Once given permission to rise, Yolinar takes a step forward to stand just a 
little away from the throne. He turns towards the Atreides delegation, and 
utters in a voice pitched perfectly to carry, "Will Her Grace, the Duchess 
Atreides, stand before the throne?"

 From the east alcove, Margot draws herself up from her curtseye, moving 
with a steady and confident stride before the emperor, though her eyes 
betray a little uncertainty. Finally standing before him she again dips 
into a curtseye, again casting her glace towards the emperor's feet and 
waiting to be told to speak.

The Emperor looks down upon the Lady Atreides, regarding her silently for 
several moments. He draws a slow breath through slightly flared nostrils as 
he lifts his chin and speaks. Though his voice is soft, it carries easily 
throughout the Selamlik, "Cousine. Lady Margot. Duchess Atreides." He 
pauses here and takes his seat upon the throne. His voice rises now 
slightly louder and more forceful than before, "We are now disposed to hear 
your petition. Speak it now."

Margot holds her position, not having been told to rise yet. "Your majesty 
is most generous." she starts. "The petition I wish to lay before you is 
twofold. Two issues that seem separate but, in the interest of house 
Atreides, are tied nonetheless. We hope that his majesty in all his wisdom 
will consider the petition and judge favourably. The first part is the 
announcement of my humble self as the new siridar of house Atreides, to 
follow in my brother's footsteps. The second part is the imperial approval 
of the denouncement of her parentage of my niece, the lady Helen Atreides 
and the subsequent adoption of my niece as my own, giving her a right to 
the dynastic claims of the great whouse which I was asked to serve."

Erich furrows his brow and frowns slightly. He leans forward on the throne 
and silently gestures for Margot to rise.

Margot rises from her humbling position, still not making eyecontact with 
Erich and quietly awaiting his judgement.

Erich speaks quietly, and those far from the throne must strain to hear 
him, "The forms must be obeyed." He pauses, then asks, "Is the Lady Margot 
amenable to submitting these to the throne as separate petitions?"

Margot nods. "I am willing to submit both issues separetely, our majesty. 
The bound petition was but to underline how linked these two issues are.", 
she speaks in a quiet and respectful tone.

Erich nods slowly his slight frown dissipating as he purses his lips in 
thought before speaking -- almost as though he has decided to wait until 
this very moment to make his decision in this matter. He begins speaking 
slowly, "In that case . . . Lady Margot . . . the Lion Throne hereby 
formally recognizes your legitimacy. Be it known to all present that Her 
Grace, the Duchess Atreides is to be acceded all courtesies and rights as 
are due her station as Siridar-Duchess of Caladan."

The Emperor pauses here for effect, allowing his words to ring out before 
continuing, "The Throne will take the matter of the Lady Helen under 
careful consideration, since this is complex and should not be concluded 
with unseemly haste. We will rule on this after the full details of the 
petition are contemplated and understood." He pauses a beat and adds dryly, 
"The forms must be obeyed."

Margot nods quietly, going down on one knee as the forms regarding the oath 
of allegiance require. Her eyes still downcast she speaks. "I, the lady 
Margot Elizabeth Atreides, formerly of house Heleneaus, do hereby solemnly 
swear my allegiance to the Lion throne. I will devote my arm to defend it 
and my mind to uphold all it stands for, placing my life in the hand of he 
who embodies the radiant power of the empire, the padishah emperor."

Erich nods abruptly, and almost smiles, "The Lion Throne hears and accepts 
your pledge of fealty, Lady Margot. You may depart as Siridar-Duchess of 
Caladan in our good graces."

Margot nods and stands, for the first time not averting her gaze and daring 
to look upon Erich directly. A soft smile again forms on her lips as she 
curtseyes a final time, leting her head dip ever so slightly. Margot then 
carefully takes 3 steps back before swiveling on the ball of her foot and 
returning to whence she came.
Margot leaves from her place before the Golden Lion Throne.

Darwin bows discreetly and respectfully to the Emperor.

Erich addresses the assembly, "The Throne has a small bit of business of 
its own, which should be concluded before hearing the next petition."

He continues, his voice rising, then falling, almost like a sigh, "We are 
deeply saddened at the loss of our loyal servant and friend, the Master 
Vincent Xavier Cromwell-Corrino." With only the briefest of pauses, he 
continues, "However, the work of the Imperium must continue despite our 
gravest sorrow, and it is with the utmost confidence that we name the 
Viscount Yolinar Sefyre Fenring as our Imperial Chancellor. Be it known to 
all present that his word carries the weight of Imperial will." He turns, 
addressing Yolinar, "Chancellor, carry on."

"The Court recognizes Her Ladyship the Baroness Stalinsky. Stand forth, and 
be heard," Yolinar cries. It must be noted that he does not yet carry the 
staff of the Chancellor, but his voice and his sheer presence on the dais 
seems to have grown with that simple acknowledgement of his position.

As called, the lady Ekaterina rises from her place near the back of the 
hall, brushing down her long skirts as she begins the swiftly forward 
motion, with a brief glance sideways at the members of her house assembled. 
The walk itself is nerve-wracking of course, but forward she goes-- 
thanking fate silently for the inability of the sound of her footfalls to 
reach any ears but those in the immediate vicinity as she passes.

Reaching the imperial presence after what seems an eternity (to her, for 
she is walking with a seemly swiftness), she takes a step back and with 
front leg straight, sinks with hands out behind her into a reverent deep 
courtesy, head down. Her blue eyes close softly, as she draws a breath.

The Emperor looks down upon the Lady Rastanyev-Stalinsky and draws a long 
breath as he gauges her presence. He lifts his chin and speaks, intoning 
the customary words, "Lady Ekaterina. Baroness Stalinsky. . .we are now 
disposed to hear your petition. Speak it now."

"Most beneficent Imperial Majesty," says the Stalinksy baroness, "-wishing 
not to waste the court's time and energy, House Rastanyev begs only your 
wise attention for one brief issue. The right honorable Mikhail, 
Siridar-Earl of Garrashu VI has departed fair Kaitain in order to rear his 
newborn sons, leaving me as Regent-elect... Most humbly do I ask your 
approval, on behalf of our house, so that in my good cousin's absense 
affairs can be offially looked after," she says.

"I present myself for your lawful judgement." Her cultured alto, bearing 
the slight pressure of the Russkiy accent, then falls quiet. Her head still 
lowered, her posture alters only to deliver her words at requisite volume.

Erich nods silently and gestures for you to rise.

Ekaterina rises as so bidden, eyes now open, and to the floor, hands 
knitted before her.

Erich draws his chin up and sniffs the air twice in rapid succession. His 
brow furrows and he pauses as though considering something. A slight smile 
twists one corner of his mouth and he asks, "Our Imperium is blessed indeed 
to have been granted two more Rastanyev sons. What a joyful event. No?"

"Your majesty is most kind to say so... Rastanyev most heartily agrees." 
she says, smiling carefully. Still carefully watching the floor, the 
coppery-haired baroness says, "Their young lordshipa Josef and Serge 
promise to be strong, for us."

Erich speaks softly, his tone softening and losing a bit of its grave 
formality, but taking on a slightly unsettling silkyness, "Yes, yes. Quite 
joyful indeed. The kind of event that the entire family must have been 
delighted to celebrate, I'm certain." He smiles thinly, "I shall look 
forward to speaking with my beloved about it. I'm certain she has much to 
say." He draws himself up abruptly and his tone slips into its regal 
cadence once more, "We wish the Siridar-Earl's sons a long and fruitful life."

The Emperor clears his throat and speaks more loudly, "Do you swear your 
fealty to the Lion Throne, Lady Rastanyev-Stalinsky?"

Surely as tides coming in, the lady says, "Your Imperial Majesty, I do so 
solemnly swear fealty, and hope with sincereity to be worthy of all so 
swearing means."

Erich nods formally, his features and voice grim, "You are then recognized 
by the Throne as Baroness-Regent of House Rastanyev. This recognition is 
binding and lawful, but provisional and subject to review should the Throne 
find it necessary to do so. Be it known to all present that this Lady is to 
be acceded all of the rights and courtesies due her lawful station." He 
pauses and expels a short breath, "Baroness-Regent Rastanyev, you are 
dismissed and may depart in our good graces."

Ekaterina nods her head thankfully, and then dips into deep courtesy once 
more. She then backs safely out of the imperial presence, and makes her way 
then back to her appointed seat, where she is assisted into sitting.

With a ringing voice the Chancellor issues a summons to the Venhei. "The 
Court recognizes the Grand Earl Setzer Trajanus Cartusa Vaslaj. Stand 
forth, and be heard."

Setzer swivels from his place, striding down the alcove toward the Throne, 
his head held high and a look of neutrality on his face, though one can 
almost see his heart beating through his chest as he moves from his zone of 
safety into the 'lion's den', cape dusting the floor lightly behind him. As 
he reaches the Throne, the Minister places his hands behind his back and 
dips into a low bow, his eyes averted from his Emperor, keeping complete 
silence until bidden to speak or rise. He's been here before, but the look 
on his face betrays that this instance, where he himself is under scrutiny, 
is far more important than other times.

Erich intones, "Earl Vaslaj. The Throne is disposed to hear your petition. 
Rise and speak it now."

Setzer rises slightly, though his eyes are still concentrating on the feet 
of the Emperor as he speaks loudly and clearly, "It was with regret that 
House Venhei informed the populous of Kaitain of our previous Baron's 
madness and the terrible circumstances which has rendered him unable to 
continue his reign." He pauses for a moment, "Due to this, the Venhei are 
currently without a leader. In this circumstance, I wish to humbly petition 
the Throne for the position of Regent, in order to calm the populous of 
Liathon, keep peace, and oversee the Inquisitorial Council and their 
findings until such a time as the turmoil of the current day is deemed over 
and a permanent ruler may be found." He pauses, holding his breath and 
measuring a response from the Ruler of the Known Universe.

Erich watches the Earl for a long moment, then leans forward and asks 
bluntly, "Do you swear your fealty to the Lion Throne?"

Setzer draws his breath, eyes rising a little more, and addresses the 
entire Selamlik, "I, the Grand Earl Setzer Trajanus Cartusa Vaslaj, hereby 
swear fealty to His Majesty the Emperor Erich Ladislas Corrino, first of 
his name, and the Golden Lion Throne upon which he sits. It shall be my 
desire to serve the Lion Throne and its Master with all the power vested in 
me, and to the best of my abilities as a humble servant of the Imperium."

Erich nods sharply and draws a long breath, expelling it through his words, 
"The Throne hears and accepts your pledge. Be it known to all present that 
the Earl Vaslaj is formally recognized by the Lion Throne as Earl-Regent of 
House Venhei. This appointment is binding and lawful, but provisional, and 
may be subject to review by the Throne as it deems necessary. Is this your 
only petition?"

Setzer bows again, thankfully, before speaking once more, "If it is the 
wish of the Emperor, I wish to petition the Throne, as Regent, for a change 
of fief regarding the House Minor Crane, from Marcinko to Liathon. Due to 
the elimination of the majority of the family within House Crane, the 
reigns of the House have fallen upon my own swordmaster, the Lord Jereth 
Crane, who has expressed his wish to have House Crane moved to Liathon." No 
wasting time for this one. My swordmaster, if only by a couple of seconds, 
it seems.

Erich leans back in his throne, and draws a long breath as he considers the 
request. Again, it seems almost as though his decision is being formed here 
and now. After a few moments he responds, "This is a complex matter and 
deserves careful consideration to ensure that the forms are obeyed. The 
Throne will undertake to appoint a legal advisor to House Venhei to 
expedite the exploration of the substance of this request. Action will be 
taken in a manner in keeping with this advisor's findings. Is such an 
arrangement acceptable to House Venhei?"

Setzer inclines his head toward the Throne and its occupant, "It will be 
most acceptable for Your Majesty to expediate in this manner, and it is 
reasonable for such an advisor to be appointed." He pauses, "May we humbly 
ask if His Majesty has a particular advisor in mind?

Erich answers quietly, "An advisor will be named within a short time, and 
you will be informed promptly through official channels when the decision 
has been made. You are dismissed Earl-Regent, and may depart in our good 
graces."

Setzer bows for the last time and takes several steps backwards before 
moving toward his position in the west alcove, a thoughtful look on his face.

The Chancellor's expression is unreadable, after the details have been 
decided. However, those who know him well will note the slight, almost 
imperceptible hint of amusement that touches the shape of his lips. "The 
Court recognizes the Regent-Viscount Pers Eskilsen. Stand forth and be heard."

With a slight flurry of activity from his surrounding school of fellow 
Alvstads, Pers steps out of his place, face serene and held high. He 
traverses the long distance from his position at the back of the room to 
the customary ten paces before the magnificent Lion Throne with sounding 
footsteps, cape fluttering briefly in his wake.

Upon reaching his destination, he dips into a deep bow and bends his head 
low, casting his eyes upon the floor. "Most Sublime Majesty," he intones, 
though something in his voice might let slip that this long string of 
supplicants with the same request is getting a bit tiresome. "I am summoned."

Erich allows a slight grin to twist his lips as he hears the weariness in 
Pers' voice. He matches it with his own, uttering the formal words with 
little enthusiasm, "Regent-Viscount Eskilsen. The Throne is disposed to 
hear your petition. Rise and speak it now."

Pers raises his head and begins to speak in crisp, low tones that carry 
like quiet thunder throughout the hall. His voice looses some of its 
weariness, though perhaps only by force of will. "I come before Your 
Majesty with regards to my appointment as Siridar-Viscount of House 
Alvstad. This, our previous petition, was declined by Your Majesty pending 
investigation into the death of the late Jans II, last Viscount of the 
Family Alvstad, the arrival of the Noble Alvstad Navy's Council of Admirals 
on Kaitain, and the vote of confidence in my own person expressed by the 
Senate of Noblemen on Alvsgaard." Having delineated the former facts, Pers 
pauses as if taking stock of the situation once more. His glance is almost 
apologetic as he continues.

"In response to Your Majesty's concerns," he continues, his tone somewhat 
more animated than before, "I returned to the Thanatos system. Documents, 
attested to by Truthsayers and Guild Agents, were collected and entrusted 
with the office of the Imperial Chancellor; our Embassy and Homeworld were 
held at the service of His Majesty's Imperial Agents."

"Having completed all this, and lacking further instructions, the Alvstad 
have returned before the Lion Throne." Pers concludes his unfortunately 
longwinded speech and dips his head. "I await Your Majesty's judgement."

Erich leans forward, squinting slightly, "For the benefit of the Court, and 
for the education of all present, please summarize the findings contained 
within these reports."

Pers nods crisply at the order before beginning. "On the twenty-first of 
nAudrim, 10096, the Council of Admirals travelled from the Thanatos System 
to Kaitain. On the evening of the twenty-first, Jans IV Alvstad was taken 
into custody on charges of mutiny under the Lawful Edicts of Alvsgaard. On 
the morning of the twenty-second, while the Council met in their lodgings 
at the Kaitain Spaceport, Jans IV was assassinated; his body was discovered 
by a page later that afternoon, upon being brought his meal. On the 
eighteenth of neSheustim, 10097, the Senate of Noblemen convened on 
Alvsgaard to discuss their nomination for Viscount of House Alvstad, as 
Jans IV had no Imperially recognized heir. On the twentieth, their decision 
was made public."

Erich asks pointedly, "And the manner of his assassination?"

"Chaumas," Pers replies, expression composed. "Administered in his 
breakfast on the very same morning."

Erich nods and draws himself back a bit, "How unfortunate. Has the assassin 
been identified and apprehended?"

"The immediate assassin, a younger chef, was of course captured," Pers 
answers, his manner frank and even a bit relaxed. "As to the question of 
the orchestrator of these actions; the Director of the Aesir was taken into 
custody early this year. His interrogation continues on schedule."

The Emperor nods gravely, his jaw tightening and manner becoming more 
formal as he digests the details of Pers' description. He regards the old 
Warmaster carefully for a long while, then speaks slowly and softly, 
"Regent-Viscount, this is a serious matter, and we must see to it that the 
forms are obeyed. It is times such as these that demand the utmost 
vigilance." He allows a long pause before continuing, "Do you swear your 
fealty to the Lion Throne?"

Eduard shifts slightly in his seat on the dais.

Erich's eyes turn briefly to his father then return to gaze upon Pers.

Pers's gaze, too, is distracted briefly by the stirrings of Eduard upon the 
dais. Nonetheless, he continues with formality once more finding home in 
his voice, bowing low. "Before my assembled peers and betters, Your 
Majesty, I swear my fealty to the Lion Throne." That's it. No bombastic 
speeches in praise of the glorious home of all virtues that is Erich I; 
we've had enough of those tonight.

Erich nods curtly, "Very well. The forms must be obeyed. Be it known to all 
present that you are recognized by the Throne as Siridar-Viscount of 
Alvsgaard. You are to be acceded all of the rights and courtesies befitting 
your station. You are dismissed and may depart in our good graces."

Pers folds crisply at his waist, his expression pleased; form cannot 
surpress habit, and he nods curtly before turning about on heel and walking 
back to his position at the back of the Selamlik.

Indeed it is a trifle boring, but the Chancellor does not seem bored. There 
is an intensity to his expression, again so subtle that no one save his 
closest friends would notice it. "The Court is pleased to recognize the 
Countess Moritani and the Lord Shane Padron. Stand forth and be heard."

Is that not strange, he actually seems to be a little less formal now.

Ophelia stands in the area before the Golden Lion Throne.
With a carefully measured, but efficient pace, the Countess Moritani makes 
her way towards the throne from the eastern alcove, her velvet skirts 
rustling in quiet whispers. Once there, she sinks low into a gracious 
curtsy, pausing there to let her Swordmaster make his own display of 
obeisance before she speaks.

A few moments pass, and she says in her soft, rich voice, "Majesty... we 
know how dearly your time is counted, so we will make our request brief and 
to the point." Who's the one who sees time in terms of solaris, really now?

Shane steps forward, following the Lady Ophelia to stand before the Lion 
Throne. Well, that is to say that the moment those feet hit that magical 
place that suddenly weakens everyone's back so that they bow, Shane takes 
it a step further, leaving Ophelia to be taller than he before the Emperor 
as he actually drops to one knee, head bowed.

The Emperor nods, appearing thankful for the promised brevity, "The Throne 
is disposed to hear your petition. Speak it now."

Ophelia clears her throat a bit self-consciously, lifting her head just a 
notch as she speaks, "For his courage and loyalty to House Moritani, for 
his victory in personal combat, and his efforts towards the defeat of House 
Ginaz in Kanly, it is our wish to bestow upon Shane Padron, Earl of Turcal 
and Master of Arms of House Moritani, the deeded lands and title Count of 
Antilles, by Your confirmation."

The Emperor nods slowly, regarding both the Countess and her Master of 
Arms. He speaks, "Earl Padron of Turcal. Have you sworn fealty to the 
Siridar-Countess Moritani?"

Erich comments dryly, "Once is sufficient."

Shane smiles, slightly. "Ladies like to know that they have the support of 
their men, Your Majesty. The Noble Countess is no different and no less 
than any other lady in the regards. But I reaffirm my loyalty to House 
Moritani and my Siridar, who all humbly serve the Mighty Emperor of the 
Padishah Empire."

Ophelia casts a sidelong glance to the Swordmaster, very firmly resisting 
the urge to grin, or perhaps sigh in consternation. She holds her silence, 
her eyes at the base of the throne.

The Emperor furrows his brow and leans forward at these remarks. He asks 
quietly, "Ahh. A font of wisdom. Would you have anything else to teach the 
Throne?"

Shane clears his throat, and answers, quite simply, "Most certainly not, 
Your Majesty." See, quickly learned. Perhaps not quickly enough, but, 
quickly anyway.

Ophelia inhales deeply, and quite clearly holds her breath, her corset 
straining surely with the added pressure. Still, she remains silent, 
listening as Shane tries to get himself out of this one.

Eduard offers, quietly, "Surely the Swordmaster was reflecting on his 
experiences, Majesty; not offering instruction to the Emperor."

Erich leans back and shoots an annoyed glance at his father. Returning his 
eyes to Shane he nods simply -- either satisfied with the response or eager 
to conclude the evening's business, "Very well then. You are reminded that 
your first -- and only formally recognized -- pledge of fealty to the 
Siridar-Countess carries with it by extension her pledge of fealty to the 
Lion Throne." He turns his gaze to Ophelia and says, "Your petition shall 
be taken under consideration and the Throne will issue a formal ruling in 
the coming days. You are dismissed and may depart in our ... good graces."

Ophelia dips herself lower, sweeping her skirts aside and rises enough to 
step backwards from the throne. And yet, everything in that bodice remained 
intact. Yet another feat of gravity-defiance. After several careful paces 
backwards, she makes her way back to the alcove from which she came.

Nope. Not a word. Not one. Silence is the golden rule. Shane stands with 
Ophelia, and walks, hands clasped behind his back. While his face remains 
casual, indeed, the new Crayola colour of 'Dumbass Red' could be used to 
describe the shade of his skin.

 From the east alcove, Wilhelm glances at the Lord and Lady as they return, 
a smirk barely evident on his face.

One elegant eyebrow lifts as soon as the Countess departs, but the 
Chancellor's voice rings out clearly again. "The Court is honored to 
recognize His Highness the Prince Eduard Ali Chandra Corrino. Will His 
Highness stand forth and be heard?"

Eduard rises, languidly, from his seat on the dais. He pauses, silent a 
moment, then bows to the Emperor from where he stands. In a quiet voice, 
the academician says, "Your Majesty. I come before you tonight with tidings 
of gravity. All is not well in the realm."

Erich draws a long breath and lifts an eyebrow. Clearly this announcement 
is unexpected. He leans forward on the edge of the thone as he speaks, a 
curious and uncharacteristic air of uncertainty entering his voice, "The 
Throne will hear your tidings, Prince Eduard. Speak them."

Eduard is unhurried. "I speak of murder, Majesty. Surely no issue can be 
more grave, other than conspiracy to cover such crime and neglect in 
seeking such malefactors."

The Emperor nods, his brow furrowed as he utters a single word, "Continue."

Eduard takes a pace forward. He's very calm. "I have reason to believe the 
death of Vincent Cromwell-Corrino, lately Chancellor of the realm, was no 
accident, but the result of foul play. I beg leave of his Majesty to 
investigate this at once, with all resources He may commit to my 
supervision to conduct a proper investigation."

The Emperor leans forward, frowning as a slight twitch appears in his jaw, 
"Foul play?" he asks. His eyes dart quickly from Prince Eduard to Yolinar 
and back again as he shifts in his seat, "Well this is most unexpected ... 
and ... quite shocking." He pauses, eyes drifting to the granite floor then 
returning to look upon his father as he speaks grimly, "You are ... of 
course ... granted your request."

"Your Imperial Majesty," Yolinar says quietly yet clearly. "If I may offer 
a suggestion? Permit me to carry out this investigation. The late Duke was 
my predecessor."

Eduard speaks up. "Majesty, the new Chancellor must be free of any taint or 
accusation of unfairness. I am uniquely situated to provide an impartial 
investigation."

Erich frowns quite distinctly, lifting his hand to his mouth and rubbing 
the edge of his lips with his fingertip. His eyes rise to each of the men 
before him. He shifts on his seat once more and speaks slowly, "No one 
questions the Chancellor's integrity. It is unimpeachable. He shall provide 
oversight for this investigation as it is clearly within the scope of his 
duties for the throne." He pauses and looks at his father for a long, quiet 
moment before adding, "But you will be given direct responsibility for the 
investigation . . . as this is your request and your abilities and 
motivations cannot be questioned."

Eduard nods, not missing a beat. "I thank your Majesty for the opportunity 
to serve. As my first request, I ask that Chancellor Cromwell-Corrino's 
confidential files be turned over to my investigation."

Yolinar inclines his head gracefully. "I thank His Majesty for his trust in 
me, and I swear that it shall /not/ be misplaced. If there is the least 
sign of foul play--we will find it."

Anatole turns again, speaking quietly into Ophelia's ear again

Erich twists his head slightly and juts his jaw forward, "Your request may 
be submitted formally through the normal channels ... Prince Eduard. It 
will, of course, proceed with the full acquiescence and support of the 
Throne, so you should encounter no difficulties."

Eduard bows, stiffly. "I thank your Majesty for granting these boons, and 
will begin at once."

Erich nods and turns to Yolinar, "Is there any further business, Chancellor?"

Yolinar shakes his head. "None save one. There is to be a celebration at 
Revelers after the court. All are invited to attend, should they wish."

He looks somewhat subdued, but still proud and still every inch the 
chancellor.  This has, after all, been a very surprising night.

Erich stands up from his place at the Golden Lion Throne.

Eduard bows as Erich rises, averting his gaze.

Erich rises from the Throne, and nods curtly. He departs the chamber 
quickly, his Noukkers making way for him as he steps purposefully, his 
boots rapping loudly on the granite floor. The guards follow him through 
the golden doors as he departs.


Lucas Ashlar
   "Omnia Mutantur, Nihil Interit."
[ Everything changes, but nothing is truly lost. ]

http://www.geocities.com/andulvan/index.html

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