Another day just like any other. Another day following the King, suspecting all of commiting a high treason, concentrating harder on peoples movements than anything else. Another day as a bodyguard.
Athan didn't often bodyguard, but it was good money. Great in fact. After all, he was working for the King.

Athan shook himself from thoughts of his position, and brought himself back to reality. He focused his gaze on the King as they walked on along the wide, elaborately decorated corridor. 'I don't care how big this hotel is, he thought, I'd bet a years earnings that whatever he paid to be here is barely a drop in the water for him. Hell, wouldn't be surprised if he was here for free.'

'You're probably right, but don't lose concentration. Focus on the job!' Hawk scolded in Athan's mind's ear. 'I'll bet a year of our wages that if he finds out who you are, you're head will roll before he can say off with it'


[OOC: if you get confused by the whole Hawk thing, read athans stats and yo'll get it.]

The Saint Marius Hotel was very vast, and one of the most elite establishments in all of Esto Gaza. It catered especially to the very wealthy, so when the King decided to stay there, it came as no surprise to them. The bellhops merely took his checks with lazy eyes and presented him with a key to his chambers. The days of awe and shock still existed for the king, but certainly not amongst his supporters. They knew him, and they knew him well. That was certainly enough.

Drake was not staying in a two-bit motel. The Saint Marius hotel was larger than any hotel in the city, and the room were Drake stayed was not a single room, but rather a vast series of rooms. Drake had a place to eat, bathe, sleep, and lounge. This did not account for his son Frederic, who had his own chamber for sleeping, and another for bathing. To Drake and his son, this was hardly abnormal; they were used to having various, vast, chambers and Saint Marius was still small compared to the palaces of Serdio and Meria. To a common person, however, Drake (and everyone else at the hotel) was occupying an absurd amount of rooms.

The sun was setting, and Drake could tell through the vast glass windows on the third floor, as Drake passed from one of the various corridors. The large glass windows actually formed a door, which led out unto a vast veranda. How quickly the days passed, and with little hesitation. Drake checked his watch and noticed with great shock that it was already nearly seven o' clock. Frederic would probably be returning soon. A few more paces, and Drake reached the door of his chambers. A careful hand pulled the door open and Drake hesitated only slightly.

He had many guards whenever he went out, far more than he did prior to the Restoration. Drake didn't often converse with them. He hired them, learned their names, and paid them at the end of the week from his own pockets. No longer was his protection (like he even needed) paid by the government. His own pockets were emptied for such things.

A man named Athan was Drake's newest guard. He had hired him shortly after entering Esto Gaza, during the period when many were eager to prove their loyalty to the King. Athan didn't speak much, and Drake said little to him that wasn't business like. Nevertheless, he was an efficient guard and Drake was glad to keep him on his payroll.

"Athan." Drake replied slightly, revealing the insides of the chamber. "We seem to have returned earlier than usual. I suppose it is the detour to blame. Nevertheless, Frederic hasn't returned yet, and you're on the clock until ten, when Honoré takes your position. Would you care for a drink or something?"

[ooc: anything i write from now on is thinking. Whether it's Hawk or Athan, even if it says "said"]

Athan stood to attention as Drake appoached him. He was surprised by The King's request, his mear approach caught Athan off guard. Ironic, for a man with his job.

'That's odd.' Hawk mumbled. 'I wonder if there's anything wrong...' Hawk was not alone in his interest. It wasn't often that they spoke to eachother, and when he did it would only be an order; "Wait here" etc. 'Be wary.' Hawk stated. Both he and Athan were confused, and so this brought up many questions and alarm bells. Never the less, Athan had to accept.

'O-of course, sir.' Athan replied, with a stutter. 'Is there anything in particular, sir?' Athan queried, a slight concerned frown appearing on his face.

The conversation was interrupted by a burst of commotion that seemed to shake the city and spread in the streets as Esto Gaza erupted into cries of sheer exuberance. The Imperial Zeppelin of the Empress and Queen of Serdio and Meria, along with a series of smaller airships drew over the skies of the capital. Church bells all throughout the city began to ring and music, magically enhanced, was played by the orchestra the Empress kept with her at all times.

First the Imperial Anthem of Meria, followed by the Royal anthem of the House of Rlugia and the National Anthem of Serdio, all projected over the city.

In her chambers, the Empress reclined with her family as the magnificent city spread out beneath her. She began to ponder the location of the capital and made a note to discuss with her husband a new idea.

Leto admired the city, standing a few feet away from the railing that separated the chamber from the vast, floor to ceiling french windows which were, at this moment, flung open.

Helen was reclined near her mother, examining the vista from the center of the lavish chamber which served as the family parlor.

Leto I, Rei Henka of Meria stood by the bar pouring himself a glass of port. “It’s a fine city.” he remarked. “it does have a great deal of life. It’s not nearly as lovely as Hayholt, or Ivendell nor is it as grand as Galastar... but I think it could represent Sade.”

“Could it?” the Rei Henka said. Sabriel nodded. “Look there, at that park by the Saint Marius ... it could be enlarged and might serve as the Jaran district... imagine it strewn with the tents of the tribes... and... just there we might build a palace... and..”

“What of Galastar? Neutral ground?”

Sabriel bit her lower lip. “Brother,” she said, using the formal, Jaran term, “What better way to conquer Serdio than to make it the crown gem of the Confederecy? To make it the cosmopolitan center of a mixed aristocracy? I shall speak to my husband of it.”

“After his coronation?”

Pause.

“No. Before.”

"Hm, I don't know-"

Drake's speech was cut off by the blaring sounds Les dieux sauvent le roi, the Royal Anthem of Serdio and the anthem of the Rlugia dynasty, followed shortly by the Chanson de la liberté which was the national anthem of Serdio. The Merian anthem had been played prior to the Serdian melodies, which Drake had heard, and knew well from his extended exile.

"Just a moment, Athan."

Drake moved himself towards the large glass doors, and pushed them open as to see what exactly was occuring. He stepped out unto the Balcony, peering out. In the streets there was all sorts of people, various classes and various castes, yet all united in their cheers for the giant zeppelin above. It wasn't just any zeppelin, it was the imperial one used by the Empress of Meria.

"Sabriel," Drake whispered.

He turned to Athan.

"Nevermind that drink. We're going to the Air Station."

In a great fury, Drake pulled himself away from the balcony and proceeded through the myriad of halls of the Saint Marius, back towards the ground floor and into the streets. From there, he would go the Airstation.

Though the commotion was loud and sudden, Athan was not taken aback. He merely raised an eyebrow.

'Of course,' Athan answered. 'Do you expect trouble, Your Majesty? If so I can take extra... precautions.' Athan moved to follow The King.

'Wow he's moving fast. He must be real pissed. Hawk sneered, as if yeilding some pleasure from King Drakes anger.

Sabriel remembered how twenty one some years ago she had made her first voyage to Serdio in this same Zeppelin. She remembered the crowded central hall, the Jaran aristocrats ready to descend. She even remembered with a chuckle how she had attempted to seduce the king with one of her ladies maids, in an attempt to gain a foot hold in the court of Serdio.

This was only just after she had made her debut on the world stage. To her, the Kingdom of Serdio had always been a major power and the Court at Mystice the very height of sophistication.

Those were in the days when she was still naive, though she could imagine her childhood self claiming to be as jaded as the older Sabriel felt. She sighed and stood, as did everyone else.

The doors of her vast suite were opened and a liveried attendant entered. He bowed. “We have approached the air station and are prepared to dock, Your Majesty.” She nodded and he backed out of her room.

“Well,” She said, addressing her family. “Shall we?”

*****

The Air station was in chaos. But a merry, exuberant chaos. A chaos that bespoke of some massive celebration. Not only had the Empresses Zeppelin arrived, but so had the airships of some six thousand nobles from all across the Confederation. Modeling themselves after their supreme Estansa, the Jaran aristocrats, their horses neighing in their stalls, arrived in smaller Zeppelins. These creations had only one, vast chamber in which the Jaran camped in their yurts, much like they did on the Jedian plain.

The Sho rode in Serdian style airships, as did the nobles of Galastar and Ivendell. The Sudish, closest to Esto Gaza by far, were pouring in by train, carriage and T-model such that the city was becoming host to wealthy of the Empire.

When the Empress and Rei Henka first descended the wide plank from the Zeppelin, cheers erupted in the crowed. The Serdians were still not sure what to make of the Rei Henka, the Emperor of Meria. They knew that he was not their ruler, yet he was the co-ruler of their northern neighbor by way of their Queen..... though it was confusing, they knew that he was high placed and a relative/host of their King and that was enough.

Following were Helen, Leto II, Irulan, Katerina, Sage and the secondary children. These were followed by even greater amounts of retainers and ladies and gentlemen in waiting.

The Steward of the air station presented himself and once and fell upon one knee. “Your Imperial Majesty, I wish to personally welcome you, myself, to our fair city.”

Sabriel smiled, and drew him up. “I owe a great deal of thanks to the loyalty and devotion of citizens like yourself.”

He beamed as a thousand fluorescent bulbs exploded in the mad attempt by the photographers to get at pictures.

The police force surrounded the zeppelin and royal party in order to keep the ever growing crowd away. The Captain of the CIty guard presented himself next.

“Your Majesty” he said curtly, as the noise grew.

“I fear I have perhaps made an error in not coming more.... surreptitiously.”

The Captain smiled.

“Perhaps, your Majesty. If you’ll all come this way..”

“Wait, where is my husband?” Sabriel began..

"Oh, his majesty is waiting for you, your majesty." The Captain smiled curtly. "His majesty heard the music and saw the Zeppelin arriving. His majesty has hurried himself here to greet your majesty. His majesty is waiting in the Orchid Tower."

The Airstation was a very large and complex building. Aside from the landing zones and other various contraptions, there were also various large towers used to host receptions, usually bought out by the extremely wealthy when they wished to greet friends and family in style. No one but the King would be able to procure such a tower, for such a large event so quickly. But it was the time of the Restoration, a time when all were eager to please the King, for fear he would become angry. Anything Drake desired, he received at the flick of a pen.

"Shall I escort your majesty and your majesty's family to the Tower? His majesty wishes to see your majesty and his majesty's family desperately. His majesty has stated that after that, he shall entertain the various people you have brought with you."

----------

Julia followed her sister Helen off the zeppelin, while Leto, Katarina, and various others followed. Julia longed to put herself closer to her aunts, Nina and Sage, but it did not seem likely. Although the people were cheering and waving, Julia could not help but look upon the people lazily. Esto Gaza was of no interest to her and she wasn't sure why her mother wanted to make it, in her own words, 'a cosmopolitan center.' It all seemed very useless and stupid.

While Julia brooded, Katarina placed herself into the typical statecraft expected of the Crown Princess of Meria and future Empress. Unlike Serdio, where paternal succession sent the crown from father to son--or daughter in rare cases, the crown of Meria went from aunt to niece, uncle to nephew. Thus, Katarina would inherit her position from her aunt, Sabriel, rather than her father. Katarina waved slightly, soaking up the atmosphere. Esto Gaza was a glorious city, but it was somewhat lacking. However, her aunt was a wondrous city planner, and was certain if she put her mind too it, Esto Gaza would become even more beautiful.

----------

Sage and Nina were one of the last to exit the zeppelin, followed by a few children, and a vast array of retainers and servants. Sage's husband, Kyril Lapteu, a wealthy Jaran lord stood at her side, followed by their children, Anna and Irina. Nina stood near her sister, but with no husband, and no children. Nina's husband Milan Vadik had died of a terrible flu in the harsh winter of '42, and Nina had lost her only child, a boy, only a few hours after his birth. Nina was alone in the world, aside from her sister.

"It is certainly busy!" Nina replied, watching as the City Guard held back the tide of people.

"It's as if all of Serdio has come here to watch this moment!" Kyril replied, astonished at the severe amount of people.

"Not all the people, no." Sage replied with a slight tsk. "But certainly all of the nobility."

----------

Méran did not have the privilege of arriving with the Imperial and Royal family of Serdio and Meria. But shortly after his meeting with the Empress, he had hastened himself and his wife back to Serdio by train, and had taken a large point in setting up the festivities for the arrival of the Empress, among others. While his servants and retainers sweated in the streets to make everything perfect, the Duke and Duchess of Méran had taken up their positions in the vast line of Serdian aristocrats making their way from the air station.

"My, look at this!" The Duchess of Méran cried, looking at all the people. "How fake many of them are. Just a few weeks ago they were filling the streets, cheering as the usurper rode off to his last battle. Now that the King is back, they are afraid. So they cheer for him, cheer in hopes he will grant them pity. Is the King aware of how two-faced his people are?"

"Madame," The Duke of Méran replied with a cowl, "His majesty is all-knowing, and is probably quite aware of these things. But unlike us, he is not bitter towards these people. He forgives them, and pleads with them, in hopes they will accept him. He does not wish to return to a throne soaked with the blood of martyrs."

"Then he wishes to return to a throne that has been smashed by the hammer of revolution? I don't understand."

"Nor do I. His majesty is a very complicated man..."

“Of course.” The Empress said.

The Royal family made there way threw corridors of policemen, separating themselves from the crowds. The Orchid tower was the most lavish of the entertaining spaces and once inside the first entry hall the chaos outside vanished.

From the entry hall, Sabriel in the lead, the family took a lift up to the highest terrace in which the King waited.

Sabriel smiled, for though their marriage had been made for politics, she truly loved her husband. It was impossible not to love the man who had fathered so many of her children.
She curtsied. “My Lord.” She said.

Leto, however, was not nearly as formal. After the Empress rose but before the King had time to greet her, the Emperor of Meria trapped his brother-in-law with a massive bear hug.

“Your Majesty, I’ve missed you greatly!”

It was known far and wide that the two monarchs were close friends.

Helen, too, approached her father. “Your Majesty” she said, curtsying. Introductions with the other family members, one by one, took place until everyone was introduced and smiling, happy to be again with one another.

The King returned Sabriel's curtsy with a low bow. Despite the close bond that they shared, their relationship, at least in public, was extremely formal. Drake afforded his wife one slight bit of affection in public--a quick kiss on the cheek.

"My lady."

Drake was soon consumed in the hug of the Emperor Leto, but he accepted it cheerfully, flashing a smile which was seldom seen upon his face. Even his children could only remark a few times when their father smiled, although he always reminded them that smiling did not always equal happiness. Drake was complicated to code--only Sabriel and the Emperor Leto possessed the skill to notice his mood.

"It is truly nice to see you again too, your imperial majesty."

And then there was Helen and Julia. They made their curtsies and statements to their father, to which he returned to them a low bow and tender hug. Even with his children, Drake was distant. It was not an insult, however. He was always as such, and Julia knew it well, and she was certain Helen did too.

And there came Sage and Nina, the other minor children, Katarina, and so forth. Drake accepted them with bows, nods, and statements of cheeriness. Even in an intimate setting, the Royal and Imperial families were remarkable formal, with much etiquette and poise.

After the introductions, it was Helen who first spoke up.

“I’m ever so pleased to see my Lord Father is in good health, your Majesty, but I wonder as to where my brother, the Crown Prince is?”

As she looked around at her siblings and cousins, she realized that save one or two of them, all would inherit part of Sade. Yet it would be Frederic, the eldest and first born prince of this generation who would serve as Overlord and Master to all of them, who would have to forge Sade into a unified state, instead of a nepotistic family possession.

"I have a feeling he will be joining us shortly." Drake replied with a slight wink to Helen.

Almost as quickly as Drake spoke, the doors to the tower opened, and Frederic entered the tower. He breathed deeply, and looked terribly exhausted. Unlike his parents, he was unable to keep an air about him at all times, and tended to lapse deep into informality. He did not know the ins and outs of the court, nor did he truly wish too. It was a slight disappointment to Drake, but he understood. He was like Frederic when he was younger.

"I apologize for my tardiness, everyone." Frederic replied in between gasps for air.

Helen smiled at her brother. Sabriel’s lips turned up slightly.

“My dear son.” She said and embraced the prince. There was a difference between Drake and Frederic. She admired Drake, she respected him and although she felt deep affection towards him, she recognized that he was an independent man who had his own opinions.

Frederic reminded her of how Drake was before the revolution; easy going, carefree, confident that his world was forever. She loved this Drake, and the fact that he was reincarnated as her child, made her love Frederic all the more.

Leto II was as much a friend to Frederic as Leto I was to Drake. The young prince approached his Serdian cousin, clapped him on the shoulder.

“Where have you been at?” he asked cheerfully.

Frederic embraced his mother. While his father was distant, he saw that Sabriel was a loving mother--as much as an Empress could be, at any rate. He tore himself from her after a slight moment, and soon found himself engaged in conversation with Leto II. This boy was his sole friend, the only boy he knew who wasn't up in arms about rank and poise.

"I was out for a walk." Frederic replied slightly.

"Frederic loves his walks. It's good for a boy like him to get exercise, and to go out, to see what will be his subjects when he becomes king. It is more than exercise, it is learning for the future." Drake smiled warmly at his son, to which Frederic could only nod slightly.

The family time was cut short however, by the arrival of a number of heralds and officials, all decorated. Accompanying them were a series of generals and high ranking military officers from across the Confederacy. The stopped short after entering the room, and bowed low before the Imperial family.

“Your Majesties,” Said one general whose medals were more lustrous and numerous than the others. “There are a great number of matters that can not be put of any longer, though I am loath to interrupt your intimate moments.”

Sabriel waved her hand. “Colonel Baron, if my husband allows, please continue.”

"Please, Monsieur, go on. Our family can have these moments at any time, but matters of state easily outweigh those of family. Please, do tell us what troubles you so much."

Drake was heavily intrigued by what the Baron had to say. He was not angry that his time with his family had been cut short (indeed, it was a common occurrence), but a part of him did feel somewhat sad that he could not speak with his family longer. No matter. They would have privacy soon, when the great celebration surrounding his restoration was over, and life returned to normal.

Athan could not help but grin at the proceedings. He had never before seen Drake with his entire family, let alone this close, and, though it was touching - in it's own way - it was also quite amusing to him. He understood the formality, but it was as if they were being overlyformal. A wife and husband bowing to eachother, and Athan was taken aback by the Emperor Leto's affection. Until Leto raised his arm's and smiled, both Athan had assumed it to be an assassination attempt, and he remembered placing his hand on the hilt of one of his pistols. Realising this could be seen as a discourtesy he released his grip.

What was yet more surprising was His Highness, Prince Frederic's affection. The Prince had always seemed a tangent to King Drake, and so, thinking about it now, it shouldn't be surprising that he did the opposite from King Drake, and hugged the Emperess Sabriel.

-----

Tsa'Kaz kept several metres from Leto at all times, but always had his eye on him, and constantly sensed for bloodthirst, the will to kill. Yes it was his job, but he didn't want to see Leto hurt anyway - he liked the man. It was mainly because of his informality and kindness. It was not often that nobility were such, and it was even rarer for an Emperor.

Kaz was not unduly surprised by their greetings to each other, as it was courtesy for Royals to not show too much affection to one another in public, and he had guessed that Leto's greeting would be... different. What did strike him as odd though, was that His and her Majestys Drake and Sabriel's children did not greet their father. They merely began in conversation.

'Ah, well... C'est la vie de rois et reine,' he thought. 'It must be saddening at times though.'

Once the military men had entered entered, Kaz too listened to the well-decorated officer, intrigued.

“There is an overabundance, your majesties, of great personages in the city. Their security is most important in this state of national development. We were unprepared for this..... arrival-”

This was followed by a pointed look at the Empress who returned the General’s look with a raised eyebrow.


“-And thus must hasten to figure out how to protect the aristocracy from the common masses.”

Drake frowned slightly at the Baron. He did not like seeing his subjects, especially those without rank and status called 'common masses.' It felt like an insult to his soul, like he himself had been called mere cattle. Drake trusted his people--perhaps too much. He did not seek to recreate Serdio as it had been before. His youthful days were gone, and he knew it was not possible. Compromise was the word of the day. Drake had exchanged his specter for a Charter, his absolutism for democracy. The government which he had so hated in his youth had been reborn. It was certainly a surprise.

"My people, Monsieur le Baron are hardly common masses." Drake's frown became more noticeable. "They are people sir, like you and I. They have thoughts, feelings...they are not lesser beings because they are not as rich as you, have as many metals, or any titles. I will not endear myself to my population by ordering them pushed out of the way, just so a few...pardon my tongue, fops can make it here quicker."

Drake however, was always a statesman and could never leave one side out in the cold.

"But you're right. I cannot let things go as they are. It could cause riots, and we certainly don't need such political drama before my coronation. The liberal press would have a heyday if riots broke out only a few weeks after my return."

Drake clicked his tongue, a characteristic practice when he was thinking.

"Put the Esto Gazan Gendarmes are full duty. Deploy all active forces were congestion is most apparent. If I am correct, the military garrison does have a surplus of Vièrs cannons, left over from the campaigns of the Consul. Have them set up with the Gendarmes. However, ensure they are pointed upwards. If the crowds get restless, a whiff of grapeshot sent up into the air should calm them."

There was a shock in the room, from Frederic to Sage. This was not because Drake's orders were absurd, but rather because he had referred to the Consul, their very enemy, by his title, rather than 'usurper' as was characteristic of the nobility, and even the royal family themselves.

"Father?" Frederic asked, quite perplexed. "Are you alright? I mean..you have called the usurper, 'Consul' as if you recognize his rule as legitimate."

"It was, wasn't it?" Drake asked, eyes narrowed. "I know when I have been bested. André Masséna was a man of much cunning, and he took power when the Republic toppled. I do not hate him, and I will not call him by the horrible title that many do. If anything, he usurped the rule of the Republic, not myself."

There was silence.

"Now then, M. le Baron. I am certain that the Gendarmes of the city cannot handle this vast strain, thus I want you to relay orders to the garrisons of the towns of Fougères, Vunel, and Oyonnax that their Citizen Militia make haste to Esto Gaza to help enforce orders. These towns are small and not far from the capital--only a short jaunt. This should solve any problems. Is there anything else which needs tending too, M. le Baron?"

[ooc: apologies for the shortness of my post]

Athan stood quietly, taking in the information on the defenses etc - just in case he himself were to have a future use for it. In all likelihood, he wouldb't have much use for it, 'but a bodyguard should know these things...' he thought.

Athan too was irked by the phrase common masses. Is that what we are, I wonder...?' Hawk queried, a bitter anger, dripping from each syllable.

------

'That's all it is?' Kaz thought. 'That's not exactly a huge thing. I wonder if all nobility get so over-worried.' Kaz cupped his hands behind his back.

The man bowed curtly, for he recognized the tension that had suddenly come arisen (seemingly against him).

“Of course, Your Majesty.”

And with that he, and a number of his aids, marched out of the room in what was nearly a military parade.

Sabriel, who had hitherto retired to a seat with her Sister in law and daughters rose again.

“My Lord, I think it may be appropriate if we retired to the hotel at which you’re staying, to relieve the strain on the Airship docks.”

Sabriel stopped for a moment before beginning again: “Indeed, we have much to discuss as well.”

"I believe so as well. Let us retire to the Saint Marius then. I shall have Third Floor bought out so the entire family may have their chambers without problems. Tomorrow is a busy day, it is the coronation after all. Let us get going then."

As the Orchid tower began to empty, Drake placed himself near Sabriel and offered his arm to her.

"We shall discuss whatever is needed once we reach the Hotel. You are correct in that there is much which needs said. Now then, let us depart."

And so they all did, for the hotel.

[ooc: theres not much to be said by me, and so this post is incredibly short]

Athan merely followed The Kings movement - though not too closesly when he moved to the Emperess - as they left the Orchid tower.

-----

Kaz spun on his heel slowly, as he followed Leto's pace.

The hotel was beautiful, though not as beautiful as the palace from which the Empress had just come. Though the staff of this most prestigious inn was accustomed to dealing with courtiers and high officials, the vast quantity of them that descended with the Empresses party was enough to impress even the most jaded employee.

The royal children and their entourages (a collection of Shii slaves, Jaran nobles, second and third born children of the Sho and Sudish gentry as well as well trained Serdian attendants) dispersed to their private suites and the King and his Empress finally had a moment to themselves.

They shared a suite, and sat together in one of the sitting rooms. It had views of the busy streets below and Sabriel, for one, was quiet taken with the entire city.

The couple were surrounded by a tea service that had been set just prior to their entrance into the parlor. They had only been there a moment, and for that entire time, the Lady Sovereign of Sade had contemplated civic renovations. Her mind, enriched with the knowledge of engineering she had gleaned while building the Downs and planning for Galastar saw the city both as it was, and what it would be. It would be fantastic.

Coming out of her reverie, the Empress turned and smiled at her husband. “This is an amazing place.”

She didn’t even need to bring up her suggestion that it be the capital, for the moment she had disembarked from the Zeppelin it had been a sort of uncommunicated understanding between the two of them.

Even if theirs wasn’t a passionate love, it was enough of a love that sometimes, they shared the same thoughts, came up with the same ideas. And that, in Sabriel’s efficient mind, was a trait that was more valuable than the mind shattering love that poets sometimes described.

Rulers weren’t couldn’t afford to sacrifice their faculties to that kind of love. It was bad for their people.

“My Lord.” Sabriel said, walking across the room and seating herself in one of the vast satin couches that surrounded the marble table atop which their service sat, gleaming in bronze and silver.

“We have much to discuss. Not only is the coronation rapidly approaching, but we must also come up with a workable government. The coronation needs to be not only symbolic, but also the realistic commencement of the government and the confederacy.”

"Yes, it's very beautiful. I for one might be biased. After all, Serdio is my homeland and Esto Gaza is my city of birth. I have known it since my younger years. I will naturally always love it. Hayholt has more symmetry and Galastar is far more sprawling, but it just makes me love Esto Gaza all the more. I'm glad you enjoy it as well."

Drake had understood exactly what she had meant, even before she had said it. Drake loved Sabriel--not the sort of love which his parents had wanted for him, romantic or passionate. But it was a sort of love which Drake felt was far more respectable, and far more powerful. It was not often that royalty or nobility made marriage matches that suited them, let alone matches that resulted in love. Drake was grateful for Sabriel's company and never regretted his marriage from the day it became true.

Yet his mind was not allowed to remain in the dalliances of love and dream. Sabriel was far too much a realist to let the conversation remain idle for long, most especially when there were more important matters. The soft harp music which filled the room seemed distant as Sabriel spoke, to which Drake listened carefully.

“We have much to discuss. Not only is the coronation rapidly approaching, but we must also come up with a workable government. The coronation needs to be not only symbolic, but also the realistic commencement of the government and the confederacy.”

"Yes, that is true," Drake replied slightly. "The coronation will naturally be unpopular, especially amongst the Liberal Press. But I have decided that I will use it as a proclamation ceremony. My first edict as the newly restored King will be to declare the Charter of '56 in full effect."

He sighed.

"But for Sade, this will be difficult. All the nations of the Confederacy have their legislatures or governments, but to unite the entire Confederacy...I have no ideas. I do not believe democracy will suit the Confederacy a whole. Perhaps a council elected by those with Suffrage who can advise us. What do you think? What are your ideas?"

((OOC: Sorry, I seem to have misposted this someplace else))
Sabriel bit her lower lip.

“I have a few ideas.”

She rose from the couch, crossed the hall and pulled on the golden tasseled rope that would summon a servant. Within a few moments, one of the valets was discreetly admitted to the sitting room.

“My files, please.”

He bowed and Sabriel returned to her seat. Shortly thereafter, another valet and a secretary entered the chamber, bearing with them a number of drawings, sketches, ideas and plans. The tea service was partially cleared away by several other servants who entered the chamber shortly after the valet and secretary, and Sabriel’s plans were laid out on the marble table.

“It’s true, that all the states of Sade have their various legislatures and advisory councils. I suggest that we keep these, as their existence will clog and confuse each other, yielding us the real power.

“However, we must do a few things. First off, we must insist that all the legislatures relocate to Esto Gaza. The realms of Sade would be nearly autonomous if their governments resided in their own countries. However, if they are all moved here, the political congestion I mentioned earlier will happen more readily. Similarly, it will make Esto Gaza the literal center of the Empire.

“Next, it would be in our benefit if we created some sort of supreme council, which could deal with the problems arising from the different legislatures. A supreme council, as it were, that would rule on the inconsistencies and arguments that are bound to arise from the different legislatures. This council, will be chaired by the rulers of the realms. It will be a vehicle for Rlugia-Novendot power.

“Finally what we need is a united military. While the legislatures won’t be touched, we need to integrate our armies into one body. As the Supreme heads of the Military and the Arbitrators between the legislatures, we will have enough power to hold the confederacy together, while still maintaining some rights and democracy for the people.”

Sabriel sat back, exhausted somewhat from her description, but proud as well at the brilliance of her idea.

*****

While his Sister, the Empress and her husband discussed the impending matters of Sade, Leto I, too, was engaged in his own mission.

Sabriel owed everything to the Clayre. Not only had they helped her defeat Mortikan once and for all (the first time he had been defeated at the hands of the King), they had also spread the Jaran seed to the Pasvie, transforming all but those who still resided in Daio. Yet, of late, the Empress’ neglect had proven insulting to that most august religious institution.

Not that the Clayre resented the practice of Zelphis, for they weren’t a jealous organization, but they did resent what they perceived to be ungratefulness on the part of the Empress.

The Emperor contemplated this. There was a knock on his door. “Enter” he said, loudly. The door opened and a Jaran prince entered. The Tobsky Dyan, his cousin, who had inherited the position from Leto’s father.

“Cousin Tobsky.” Leto said, in the formal Jaran greeting.

“Cousin Novendot” the Dyan intoned.

“If it will please my honorable Cousin, please go and seek out one of my retainers by the name of Tsa’kaz.”

“The Undead?” Tobsky asked, slightly uncertain.

The Emperor bit his lip in a mannerism very similar to that of his sister-in-law.

“Yes. The Undead.”

Tobsky inclined his head.

“As you wish. Cousin Novendot” and left.

"You've read my mind." Drake replied with a smile. "I willingly grant this Charter and these rights, but it is in my best interest--no, our interest that the Legislatures of the states remain confused and binded. So long as they cannot form a working policy, it remain in our hands. The people are jaded--compromise is difficult, and far more difficult when dealing with what they perceive as foreigners. The council will work well, because it will obviously be chaired by our relatives, no? A family coordinates policy better than foreigners."

When she spoke of merging the military, Drake bit his lip. He was willing to corporate on the matter, but he wasn't sure how the Generals of the military would react. Much as he hated to admit it, he had to lean upon his army to an extent. Staffed by Royalists and former supporters of the Consul, it remained volatile force which could make or break his rule.

"I will speak my generals regarding the merging of the militaries. I fear it will be easier said than done. The Serdians probably do not perceive this union with much happiness, and army remains what they think is a bulwark against it. However, I think I can sway my generals to agree. The army is not that which existed under the Consul. It is weak and tired of war. Give me some time and it will be done."

Sabriel nodded.

“Military merging is key, it’s much more vital than I think you perceive. If there are a number of different legislatures with different constituencies and different jurisdictions, they will confuse each other, no? It will be the same if there are a number of different military organizations with different jurisdictions. We want the voice of the people bewildered, not our military support.

“If the armies aren’t merged, not only will it rob our family of a valuable tool, but it will also throw the entire confederacy into a position in which we will not be able to defend ourselves. A factitious army will be no help in times of Civil or Global strife.”

[ooc: the term HH was used a lot in the past (particularly before the 1930s, though it is still sometimes used), for Royalty, up to and including Emperors. People would actually say aloud "HH," as it was shorter than His/Her Highness. Hehe, that was just to avoid confusion if I use that term.]

Kaz walked swiftly along the few corridors that separated his and the Emperor's positions. Kaz wondered what it could be that he wanted. If it were a matter of emergency, or HH's well-being, it would have been more urgently stated by the Tobsky Dyan, but, no. The Tobsky had merely said, quite dryly, that the emperor asked for Kaz.

Within a short time, Tsa'Kaz had reached the door to Emperor Leto's assigned chambers, and he rapped his knuckles upon the door.

"Of course, which is why it is vital I speak to my generals as soon as possible. I honestly believe we will have little problem, so long as the officers can retain their ranks in the new army, and none of the branches of the Serdian army--from the Mage's Court to the Gendarmes, are abolished completely. It took much compromise to get things how they are now, I would hate to see it all complete unraveled during the merging of the militaries."

There was a very slight sigh.

"When do you want this accomplished?"

“As soon as possible.” Sabriel responded.

“All of this must be done as close as possible to the actual coronation*, in order that your commencement as the King of Serdio and your reign over Sade coincide. I have plans for the army-”

Sabriel withdrew from her files, even more plans. She stacked the papers concerning the formation of the government neatly, before laying out those dealing with the army.

“The armies of Galastar and Ivendell hardly matter, as they are small and uncomplicated, easily absorbed into a larger fighting force. It’s the Sudish, Merian and Serdian militaries that are most important.

“In Meria, there are a number of different forces, as there are in Serdio. There is the White Guard, which is closest, in Serdio, to the National Guard. The Foreign legion is the equivalent of the Serdian Army. Then there are the Jahars, which are the Jaran versions of the Gendarmes. There is also the Imperial Guard... the equivalent to the Royal Guard. The Mages Court would be equal to the Clayre. Meria has a navy which isn’t nearly as large as yours, and an air armada which is perhaps three times the size of yours. Sudland has a National Guard, a number of local Militias which are similar to the Jahars and Gendarmes. an Army and a Navy, which are all straight forward enough.

“Here is what I propose: The Imperial Guard and Royal Guard be merged, as our families have been merged and hardly need two bodies to protect us. It can be called either the Imperial Guard, Royal Guard or Sadian Guard for all I care. I leave that detail to you. The National Guards of Serdio and Sudland and the White Guard of Meria will be merged into one body. We will spread this body out over the entirety of Sade, including Galastar and Ivendell. Again, you may pick the name.

“The Foreign Legion and the Serdian and Sudish armies will be united as well, in a single body. It will be stationed in barracks all over the continent and in the colonies. The Serdian navy will stay as it is, but will be augmented by ships from Sudland and Meria and given the duty of protecting all Sadian waters.

“The Gendarmes, the Jahars and the Sudish militias will stay separate, in order to police their particular realms. A portion of the White Guard will be saved from the mergence with the National Guards, and be put into force to serve Galastar and Ivendell in the same manner that the Gendarmes, Jahars and Militias serve Serdio, Meria and Sudland.

“Similarly, the Clayre and Mages Court will remain separate, completely. The Merian Armada will stay the same, but be augmented by airships from Sudland and Serdio and given the duty to protect the skies of Sade. The Militias of Galastar and Ivendell will be absorbed into the National Guard. Their navies will join the navies of Serdio and their sky ships will join those of Meria.”

Throughout this explanation, Sabriel had pulled out a number of lists, and suggested hierarchies and such, showing Drake the plans for the military.

“You, as the titular head of Sade, will be, ‘officially’ the head of all these forces. Of course, you will be advised by the generals of these bodies and other high ranking generals.”

*((OOC: You mentioned earlier that the coronation was to be the “next day,” but it would be more realistic, if it occurred in a “week’” or two.. not that we have to wait that long, but we should say that much time elapses before the coronation))

"Then I shall speak with the heads of the armed forces in the morning."

Sabriel went about outlining her plan. It was brilliant, if not a suitable compromise to everyone. The armies would naturally be molded into one, whilst the navy would be dominated by Serdio (who hosted the largest navy in this side of the hemisphere), while the air force would be dominated by Meria. The police forces would remain apart, and naturally, the magic parts of the military would remain separate as well. It was suitable to Drake, and he knew it would work. Sabriel always had brilliant plans. The fact that she left the naming up to him did not stump him in the lightest.

"For our protective guards, there is no reason why we cannot bask both sides of our family. Thus, the protective guard of the military, designed to defend us, shall be termed the 'Imperial and Royal Guards of Sade.' Designed to defend us, and our family, and in essence, the Confederacy. We are the heart of it, after all."

There was a slight smile from Drake and he moved onward. "Do not take this as me cowing to Merian domination. But, I believe that despite merging the national guards, we should maintain the name 'White Guards.' I say this merely because white is a royal color, and the monarchy in Serdio is in need of much support. The Serdian national guard was wildly radical, and upon my Restoration it needed purged of it's elements. I say we maintain the name White Guards for this new National Guard group, because it will inspire confidence in the monarchy."

“Brillent! Though... there is one more thing concerning the military...”

Sabriel began. Unlike the gusto she had used in her previous explanations, her confidence faded and she began to assume the sort of guilty look that little girls get after having done something bad.

“I’m sure at Hayholt... you heard whispers and mentions of the Solkran... I’m afraid that’s a secret I’ve kept even from you.”

The Empress folded her hands.

“The Solkran is a Jahar.. as it were... that serves as a sort of.... secret police... “

Sabriel laughed.

“No need to look at me like that. They don’t do anything so radical as arresting political dissidents or assassinating foreign leaders. What they are, are a very efficient, very secret spy network. Some of my most brilliant plans are due to information that they’ve supplied me about the goings on in Meria.. and to an extent Serdio.

“They’re very loyal... and I’d like to give them free reign throughout all of Sade. It’s the best way we can make sure officials throughout the confederacy are doing what they are suppose to do.”

"I see..."

Drake had heard of the Solkran during his extended exile, but he knew very little about them. Not much was said about them, and what was said was deeply shrouded in mystery. The fact she wanted to introduce them into all of Sade was frightening, but he was calmed when she stated that they were merely used them as a spy network, Drake calmed. Sabriel wanted to introduce them into all of Sade, to which Drake shook his head.

"In their current form, I must oppose their introduction into Serdio and Vulcan. I will only allow the Solkran into Serdio and Vulcan, permitted that is not a Merian dominated network. You must allow Serdians and the Sudish to join as well."

Sabriel pursed her lips.

“This is impossible.”

The discussion ended as neither side would give in. The Empress tactfully changed the subject.

“The rights guaranteed by the Serdian Charter should be extended to all of Sade, for the sake of uniformity. Similarly, the bureaucratic Ministries must be combined in order for us to run a more efficient government.”

Drake said nothing more on the Solkran and Sabriel quickly changed the subject, to which he was relieved. For although he and his wife often had the same ideas, and places where they compromised, there naturally were bumps in the road were neither could be appeased. It happened in all marriages, and even Drake and Sabriel had them.

Sabriel changed the subject, for which Drake was glad.

"I shall see to it, then. Naturally Vulcan, as a Serdian colony receives the rights of the charter--at least, the Serdian, Merian, and Sudish settlers in the region. The Charter includes a section, the 'Public Law of Serdio.' I shall publish this portion separately for Sade."

For although the monarchy in Serdio had been overthrown, there remained vast support for the monarchy in Vulcan. The Viceroyalty had been abolished early on, but the Republic, Directory, and Consulate had no powers over the region, for Vulcan was in anarchy--at least until Merian troops moved in shortly after Drake's marriage to secure the region. As such, there was an influx of settlers to the oasis cities and the coast, mostly at the urging of Drake, offering vast tracks of land and other liberties.

"Likewise, the ministries will be merged. Serdio's bureaucracy has been reduced since my Restoration, as to give me a more effective reign over the the government. As such, there are Ministries for the Army, Navy, the Finances, Diplomacy, Justice, the Interior, and the Prime Minister, naturally. We can easily merge the minor ministries, but the Serdian Prime Minister must remain a separate office as they are also the head of the government here, and of the Chambers. It would cause great outrage if the Prime Minister was a foreigner."

Drake smiled. "But there is no need to worry. Monsieur Talleyrand is my current Prime Minister--you know him as Shayaateen. His appointment has been secured, and I am certain he will win the elections as well. He is loyal to me, and you as well. He has much faith in Sade and will support us in our duties."

Sabriel laughed, kindly.

“I think, perhaps, you misunderstand me. Of course the Prime Minister and the governments of the different realms shall remain separate. I simply meant the the bodies concerning Trade, Finances, Propaganda, Diplomacy, Justice and so forth. Each realm will have it’s own leadership...”

“However, bring up Vulcan has brought up something else I wanted to discuss with you. Are Vulcan and Eden to be proper member-states in Sade? Or just colonies of the individual realms? And if they are to be colonies... how should they be run by the confederacy as a whole?”

"I believe that Vulcan and Eden are just colonies of the individual realms. Eden is mostly full of Elvish tribes, and Vulcan the Shii. Both regions have a small settler population, but hardly enough to constitute a majority. As they are colonies, I believe they deserve no legislatures and should continue to be run as they have before. The Elves recognize you as their Daimyo and bow to your absolute authority, while in Vulcan I am the protector of the Shiian tribes, while the settler communities are regulated by the Viceroyalty. I don't believe Eden and Vulcan are pardon--civilized enough for full membership. Do you have any suggestions? I believe maintaining the status-quo suffices, simply because we both have large amounts of power over the colonies."

“I agree completely.” Sabriel responded.

“Brennan, I suppose, will be created the heir to Vulcan and the rulers of Meria will continue to rule Eden.

“In regards to the Ministries, again, my idea was to have ministries for the whole of Sade, and then each different departments for the realms. Thus, while we could have central control over the ministries, they would be autonomous from each other. “

There was a pause as the Empress sorted through her papers.

"I'm actually... surprised... but I believe that's all I had to discuss with you.."

Sabriel looked out the windows.. the first time she had since the meeting started and was shocked to see, instead of the golden light of late afternoon, a deep blackness that screamed early morning.

Looking at the clock, she found that it was nearly 1:30. The tea was stone cold and the icing on the little delicacies had hardened. Looking around, she found that the servants had changed, in order that those attending the Royals earlier could sleep.

“Have you any concerns?”

"I suppose so, but Brennan will have to prove that he is worthy of it's throne. Right now he is a mess and I would not trust him with a Barony, let alone a kingdom..."

Drake shook his head.

"No, nothing. I agree with your idea on the ministries and will follow it. It is best Sade have as united a government as possible. While we have our disagreements over some matters," It was a slight mention of the Solkran, "I believe that it will all work for the best."

Drake too had noticed that it was late.

"It's very late, dear. I believe we should retire. There are many things to accomplish tomorrow. The coronation is drawing nearer with each passing day, and with each day there are new goals and obstacles."