“Me too. Being with you was a lot of fun, Sitra, and I hope we'll get to do this again soon. Until then take care of yourself and call me if you need my help.” It was true and Eanne was looking forward to spending more time with the lovely widow. If there was nothing else Eanne would see her guest leave before going back inside to take a shower of her own. (Sorry for the poor writing, I'm a bit out of it today.)
After a few days, she receives her report of the preliminary efforts, and so far things have gone well. A base has been established, to ready the main city for when a full colonisation ship arrives in the future. Gaines does note, however, that some of the new arrivals have been curious about the interface tower, asking for permission to go inside and explore. The emperor has also requested a meeting, via holo.
Carius is silent for a few moments, before he nods. "She was a friend to me, but I can't let my feelings interfere with my duty. The death sentence stands." He shakes his head, moving on to happier topics. "Yes, indeed! You've more than earned it, as well as a few of the other councilors. I'll consult and think of a few suitable options, unless there's something you'd like to request from me. Please, don't be shy. If it's within my power to give, I'm more than happy to reward you."
The water of the shower, recently restocked from the capital's few springs, pours down Eanne's body, washing away the sweat of a surprisingly exerting session of dance. As the noble revels in the feeling of the heat easing her tired muscles, she hears something from beyond the steamed up glass of the shower, something falling and shattering.
Seeing how well things are going, Vizelle smiles to herself. But, as Gaines asks about the interface tower. "Can we spare some men to make a guarded tour?" She asked, thinking they could just restrict the top most level, where the planetary interface is. And once she heard rhe emperor was a meeting, she goes to a private room to heed his call.
Gaines nods, promising that they won't be allowed to the top floor, stating that he'll cite safety hazards as the reason. Heading to her room, a connection is soon established with the young emperor, who smiles at her in a casual looking outfit. "Lady Vizelle. I hear things went as well as could be hoped. A wealthy planet will be a good addition to the empire, a nice symbol that we're not just keeping what we have, but actively expanding. On the subject of the planet, do you think you'll be claiming it as your own?" Thinking to herself, Vizelle notes that as the person who 'discovered' the planet, she has the right to claim it as her property, and part of her personal demesne, with all the incomes and manpower that being a feudal lord entails, as well as the personal prestige that can only come from owning a planet. Of course, the downside to claiming a planet is that colonisation efforts and expenses would become her responsibility (though she could potentially get the emperor or another wealthy backer to aid her with this). She'd also have to devote one of her retinue to governing the planet full time in her name. All in all, the 'start up costs' are immense, as are the potential profits down the line.
"Thank you, your Majesty." Vizelle bows as she spoke, "I would be honored if I can claim a planet for my own. But... I regret to say, if I were to accept. I will need to stay behind to govern it, as I lack the people to do so. However, should his Majesty require my aid within the council. I would not mind accepting one of his Majesty's stewards to take my place."
Carius nods. "In that case, I'll send one of my people to the planet." He smiles. "Nonetheless, your multiple successes in the name of the Empire merits a reward. Is there anything you would ask of me?"
"I am honored, your Majesty. And if I were to ask for a reward." Vizelle hummed, "I would like to be allowed to recruit psionics. As a new army retinue for the empire."
"An army of psionics?" Carius raises an eyebrow. "Very well. We keep a list of various identified and suspected young psionics. I'll make sure you have access to the list, and imperial authority to recruit who you like."
"Thank you, your highness. I will assure you I will produce much more favorable results." Vizelle does a curtsy, causing her breasts to jiggle, and "accidentally" lifting her short dress too high. Allowing Carius to see her leotard covered crotch.
Spoiler: Seduction Roll D100: 77 The hologram darkens in the cheeks slightly, as Carius blushes, but he seems far less timid than he used to. The smile he gives her is still friendly and charming, not actively lecherous, but it's clear that he's noticed her 'wardrobe malfunction', and enjoys what he sees. "I look forward to seeing how you continue to serve the empire, Lady Vizelle."
"Understood, your Majesty. I will await your steward, then return to the capital to continue with my work." Vizelle bows, ending the call if Carius has nothing else to discuss.
"As you command, my Emperor." Elena bowed her head. After hearing the ruler's question she thought for a moment. All her prerogative's lied with the order. The boon of the Emperor was something she could use to further develop the order - but she also knew, that the sudden development of her order, due to Emperor's intervention would bread resentment. No, her order would quietly infiltrate and control various parts of the Empire on it's own. Still, the Emperor's boon... She shook her head. "I'm sorry, my Emperor, but nothing comes to mind. I am but a simple servant of the Empire. As long as it works and is stable, and as long as there is a place in it for my order, I am satisfied." She bowed her head.
"Maybe..." He gulps. "Maybe you could come back even earlier? I'm sure the advance team can manage on their own, for a few weeks at least."
"Your loyalty moves me." Carius smiles. "Thank you for your hard work, sister. If there's nothing else, I'll let you go, then."
"Of course, my lord. I serve the Empire with my body and soul." Elena bowed then smirked. "So if you ever want that body, all you have to do is give a command, your highness. I will follow each and every order you give." She looked at the young man with a smirk. She was frustrating him. But she was also curious if the man grew up a little, and became more assertive... or was he still so easy to embarrass.
Spoiler: Seduction Roll D100:66+15= 81 (Pass) Carius admittedly looks a little nervous, but he smiles back at her, openly looking at her body. "I make no demands of someone who's done such great work for the Empire. But... If you wanted to, you could meet me in the palace..."
"I shall serve you then, my Emperor." She bowed her head deeper. "I shall make my way to the palace soon." After setting up the appointment, Elena bid the Emperor farewell and moved to meet the admiral. "I hope you won't mind, that we schedule our private meeting after you succeeded in completing the mission of the Emperor, Admiral?" She asked.
