Thread: Schemes & Schisms (BlueSix x Campion)

My warmest greetings to the Kingdom of Solfain, represented fully by this gracious and arduous visit requiring transit of this world. Princess of the Noble House of Del'Tharius, the Emperor of the West greets Solfain with respect and appreciation. We are in accord that this is a day for the Joining of most of this world under a treaty of unification that will bring prosperity in the Empire and the esteemed Kingdom of Solfain. In the span of a heartbeat, the Emperor won her affection. His voice was as molasses to her ears, richer and lovelier than her own imagination could ever have conceived it. He could read accounting reports and make them sound like poetry. If she received nothing more from life than to hear him speak, she would be the luckiest queen on the continent. Faelani's breath abandoned her when he descended the steps, took her by the hand, and lifted her to her feet. His hand was strong and warm, as if promising his surest protection with little more than a squeeze of his fingers. Her heart began to flutter in her chest when his breath fell upon her lips. The crown over her eyes lifted, bringing the sweet kiss of air to her face. All who saw her face let out gasps of surprise. Beautiful... one murmured. Tis a shame to hide those eyes, another whispered. Her face warmed a little at the whispered flood of compliments, with none more glowing than from the man she wished to please. The Emperor leaned in and whispered in her ear, You, Milady, set my blood on fire. I do so hope you are prepared to welcome me into more than your arms. His lips touched her earlobe, sending a shiver of pleasure down her spine. More than...my arms? The thought he planted in her mind was so naughty, so delightful, she could not find any breath to reply. Feelings arose in certain nether places that made her to squeeze her legs together. She thought she was being subtle, but there was no mistaking the color in her cheeks. Emperor Valedictus declared, Princess Faelani Del'Tharius of Solfain, By treaty, plan and delivery of yourself into Our presence, I do declare us wed, and you are now Empress Faelani I. Valedicta, ruler of mercy, Deliverer of interpretations of law, Keeper of the Imperial Treasury, and Mother to all! Polite applause rose up from the courtiers. Some expressed their surprise, but none more so than Faelani herself. She had expected to become little more than a concubine. But...perhaps that was unfair. Her experiences as governor lent her value in more than just the bedchambers. If the Emperor were wise, he would take advantage of it - which he did. At length, he released her from his embrace and guided her up the steps to his throne, whereupon he hoisted her into his lap. The princess let slip a squeak of surprise. Valedictus continued, There being no other approved business before the court, I disburse all to go begin the celebrations. Today is a holiday, and businesses not involved with the needed serving of concessions or vital support functions shall have all with the day free...workers to get normal wages at Imperial expense. Then he addressed a nearby figure, probably the chatelain, to whom he commanded, We shall wish that the bathing rooms be cleared after searching carefully and a full cadre of guards to protect the entrances. Let a light meal be brought to us in the smaller bedroom. Yes, Your Majesty, came a feminine voice. Not a chatelain, but a chatelaine, then. Then his voice drew closer. My dearest treasure. You have come so far to give me the greatest gift of yourself. I know you slept in guest quarters last night. Would you rather to the baths with me, or the bedroom first? Either will, I'm sure, be delightful. The nudge of his strength upon her nethers sparked a fire in her belly that would not be quenched except by sweet ministrations. Feeling a little bold, she wrapped her arms around him and squeezed her bosom to his neck. Am I the gift? I was under the impression Your Majesty was the gift to me. Perhaps if we unwrap one another, we may discern the truth of the matter. I confess I am impatient to learn what treasures lie beneath your waist and behind your lips, so the bedroom is my preference. Faelani traced her fingers over his face to learn what he looked like. Her heart pounded so hard, she thought it would beat right out of her chest. Heavens above, he is handsome indeed! Her index lingered on his lips, betraying her unspoken desire to taste him.