Fwurg

[Lady Peinaili de Montrève]

Peinaili was also rather surprised by the sudden outburst of the young lady and wanted to intercede but Shanora was a wee bit faster and fired some questions right away. For the moment Peinaili settled in her seat with face that could read like a thunderstorm, she was seriously offended and needed some time to consider whether or not she would just tell Daphne to leave.

Daphne realised that Peinaili obviously wasn't happy, but was surprised by the interest and apparent approval of the Twi'lek that sat in the room and asked her a series of questions. She thus decided not to apologize but answer the question, as she had obviously managed to get the Twi'lek's attention, something she valued more then Peinaili's happiness at this moment. She would worry about the consequences later and deliberated her answer to Shanora first question and then answered:

"Honestly I have no idea miss. I would say that the average Veolian noble house is at least as wealthy as my family, most of them I suspect are wealthier given they are much older and much larger. From what I can gather there is also a large difference in interests and views as the Veolian families are much active in the political arena. The same would hold true on a more personal level, as most all members seem to have their own agenda and personal interests. In that respect I would guess I would just fit in and go about my business, they would most likely accept me because of the influence my family holds within the Sundarian state of affairs.

As for the highest duty of a Veolian noblewoman," she said as she answered the second question, "again I would have to say that I have no idea but if I were to hazard a guess I would say that it would have to be to do everything possible to further interests and influence of her house and her own position, as long as it doesn't go against the wishes of the Emperor of course."

When consider her answer to the third question however, Daphne noticed the subtle hint of desire displayed by the Twi'lek woman, and this caught her off guard as she found in a bit unsettling. It took her some time to gather her thoughts again before she answered quickly, with a faint blush on her cheeks.

"Because this is something I want to do and might actually like. It isn't that I disregard the wishes of my family in public, I always do what is expected of me regardless of what I think of it. Sometimes it seems like my father either doesn't care about how I feel, or that he simply doesn't see that I really don't like the things I'm expected to do, while he believes that it makes me happy. I don't know.."

[Tayu Shanora]

Noticing the blush on Daphne's cheeks, Shanora knew that she had at least not missed her hint. The rest of her reply was hopeless though, if she hadn't had the presence of mind to even find out the most superficial of facts...

"Lady Daphne, it seems you are not at all informed about the position you apply for", Shanora said in a soft voice.

The twi'lek woman casually flipped her left lekku, the one away from Lady Peinaili, over her shoulder so it hung between her breasts.

"You come here, and with a sharp tongue you declare that you hate parties and that you don't want to be paraded around like a pretty little doll. Your wit and sharp tongue might have helped you get what you want in the past, but if you don't learn to apply them differently here", the twi'lek curled up her lekku so that it cupped her left breast, "you might as well go back home."

Shanora knew she was pushing both sundarian ladies, but she was sent here to advice lady Peinaili -- and part of that was advicing her on those things she would not even think of.

[Lady Peinaili de Montrève]

Lady Daphne's blush grew as she saw what the twi'lek did with her lekku. Even though the twi'lek seriously doubted the intentions of the young lady and had openly suggested that she should leave, Shanora's actions and expressions however gave an entirely different signal. For the moment Daphne was in dubio about what to do next and looked around a bit uncertain.

Peinaili's mood on the other hand hadn't improved as she listened to Lady Daphne's answers, in fact what little doubt she still had was completely gone. She was about to lash out when she noticed a peculiar change in the young lady's behaviour. Something had obviously unsettled her as the blush on cheeks grew more reddish and she seemed to shift her position in her seat, unsure of precisely what to do.

Peinaili looked over to Shanora and caught a glimps of what the twi'lek was doing with her lekku, which spiked her anger ever further. She stood up so fast that she almost toppled the chair she sat in as she barked with loud and harsh voice:

"The both of you would do well to remember that you are my guests here and I will not tolerate any disrespect, arrogance or any sort of .. improper conduct." She said as she gave both ladies a stern look with eyes that seemed on fire.

Lady Daphne, I suggest you leave. This conversation is over and I'll make sure to inform your father of your lack of respect, not only towards me but also towards office of the Ambassador and the interests of the Sundarian Federation.

As for you," Peinaili said to Shanora after she had ushered Daphne out rather harshly and with very little egards, "what you do at the Veolian court or in your private chambers is your business but in public I will not tolerate any such behaviour or any such infringements of common decency. You are a guest, here at my request and as such I expect that you adhere to our customs. The Empress will hear of this.."

Peinaili then rearranged her dress and withdrew to her private chambers for while, leaving the twi'lek alone in the study.

[Tayu Shanora]

Saddened to see Peinaili lash out in this way as she had hoped to stay on her good side. Shanora, however, was comforted by the knowledge that her mistress would not punish her, as she herself instructed Shanora to find out how far she could go before the Sundarian senator snapped.

It was however, imminently relevant to get on her good side again. Not knowing how she could do that, Shanora did what she would do to appease her actual mistress: she submissively sat down on the ground next to the desk of the Sundarian senator, her legs neatly folded underneath her in the traditional seiza way. She then made sure her clothing was impeccable. She neatly folded her fan, and put it on the ground next to her.

And then she waited... For hours if necessary.

[Lady Peinaili de Montrève]

As soon as Peinaili arrived in her private chambers she instructed the servants to prepare her a hot bath and lay out some new clothes, she also gave instructions not be disturbed by anyone. She need some time to think and clear her head.

Meanwhile Shanora waited patiently in the study, just as she would wait for her mistress. After about half an hour however, she heard a soft sound at the door and could see a rather large envelope laying there. It seemed to have been shoved under the door and it wasn't addressed to anyone, it just read "Dear Reader". Inside Shanora could find an invitation to a bal masqué, to be held in an exclusive club in the higher echelons of the city. Aside from a calligraphed momogram of the letter 'D' no indication of the sender was given.

After about an hour and half, Peinaili returned to the study. The bath and the change of clothes seemed to have done her well, as she was clearly in a better mood then when she left.

"Miss Shanora,"

she said as she spoke to the Twi'lek on mild, yet somewhat forced tone,

"I trust you understand why I cannot tolerate such frivolous behaviour. I do understand the extend of the duty the Empress has tasked you with, especially in accordance with the 'special requirements' for this particular vacancy, but I cannot condone such liberties with common decency in public. It is simply not our way. Can you give me your word that this will not happen again, at least in public?"

[Tayu Shanora]

As soon as Peinaili entered, Shanora bent her head down, averting eye contact.

"I understand, Lady.", she replied softly. "You have my word."

She remained seated.

"Is there anything you wish me to do at this moment? If this is not so, I would request a short intermission before you interview the next candidate. I would like to freshen up."

((OOC: Feel free to continue immediately, or after the freshening up, with the next candidate.))

[Lady Peinaili de Montrève]

"Thank you Miss Shanora,"

Peinaili sat back down and started reading some notes as she heard the question for her Veolian guest,

"Of course, take the time you need. We'll continue in a few moments."

.....

As Shanora returned, she found Peinaili speaking to one of her servants, as she had just picked the next name.

"Please send in Lady Jocelyn, we are ready for her now."

whilst sitting down again Shanora also found a new set of folders with more information on the ladies that still needed to be interviewed. After opening the one with Lady Jocelyns name on it, she could read to following:

Countessa Jocelyn is 24 years old and eldest daughter of Lord Andreas Defynigne and Lady Nora Anodua de Montrève. She has always expressed in interest in exotic animals and seeks to further her understand of the origin of the universe. She holds degrees in Geography as well as Archaeology and Philosophy and can usually be found either in her lab or outdoors exploring the more rural parts of the planet.

As Lady Jocelyn entered she first made a courteous bow before given Peinaili a hug.

"It's good to see you again cousin," She said,

"And I am more then honoured to be here. As I understand it, the Veolian's have a long and rich history which dates back many centuries and yet they have managed to preserve much of the native plant life in the jungle that still exists on Mirda. I would love the chance to see it and go out and explore, talk to some of the eldest of their race, see their archives and learn from them. "

[Tayu Shanora]

Glad that she was allowed some time to freshen up, Shanora slowly stood up making sure Peinaili didn't see that her legs were wobbling due to a lack of blood flow. She carefully made her way out of the office with small steps.

A few minutes later, she walked back in and sat down.

.....

"Lady Jocelyn, there is no need to join mister Pendra to visit Mirda. And I am sure that family of senator de Montrève could easily arrange for a meeting with some of the more established hemets."

"Could you explain to me how you think those at the imperial court will view you, and why you would make a good member of mister Pendra and lady Khaw's retinue?"

Shanora knew that by now, it has become a rote question, but that was only to her and the senator. Each candidate heard them for the first time. She kept it at these two questions, as she was certain she could speak to lady Jocelyn later if necessary.

[Lady Peinaili de Montrève]

"While that would be true Tayu,"

Jocelyn answered Shanora,

"Such a visit would not give me sufficient time to conduct any of my more detailed research. And it would not due justice to the Veolians either, as their history and archives are much richer and far more detailed then ours. Spending only several days there would leave me disappointed by the time I would need to return to Glasslyn.

Taking up a position in Mister Pendra's retinue however, would enable me to conduct my research and explore the Veolian culture and history in much greater detail. Experiencing it first hand also goes a long way and what better opportunities are there then being a part of diplomatic mission.

I realise all to well that a certain level of intimacy is expected to exist between myself and mister Pendra. At least that is what I have been able to deduce from my research into the Veolian Culture at court and from the Veolian views on intimacy in general. He is not an unlikeable man and I'm willing to admit that I find him rather handsome, so I have no problem with the implied intimacy, in fact I'd consider myself lucky.

As for my addition to the retinue, I believe that in my eagerness to explore and conduct research I could provide them with useful information on wide range of subjects and besides," Jocelyn ended with a slight blush on her cheeks, "I look good don't I, I reckon some people at the Veolian Court would find my presence and attention pleasing enough."

Jocelyn's last remark had surprised Peinaili a bit as she didn't know her cousin to be so forward about her desires but in general Peinaili was pleased with what she had heard. It was clear that Jocelyn had made up her mind and wanted to do this.

[Tayu Shanora]

"It appears you have prepared yourself well. And your presence would not go unnoticed indeed."

Tayu Shanora looked at the Sundarian senator.

"I have nothing further to ask."

[Lady Peinaili de Montrève]

"Thank you Tayu," Jocelyn responded, clearly pleased with the outcome of this brief conversation, "It was a pleasure meeting you."

"And thanks again for inviting me cousin," She then said to the Lady de Montrève, "We should talk some more once you can spare the time, I'll be staying in the city for a while."

"Wonderful, I should be able to reserve an afternoon some time later this week. I'll have my staff contact you to make the final arrangements." Peinaili responded, "It was good to see you again."

.....

A little while later, after a short break, the next candidate was brought in and she introduced herself as Lady Neomi de Savony.

Lady Neomi, even though she is only 19 years old, is already known as one of the most eligible bachalorette's the Sundarian Nobility currently has to offer. This not only due to her looks and her fondness for soirées and bal masqués but also because her family is alleged to be one of the major financial contributors behind the SimTech Cooperations and other companies within the Information based business. As these business grow and take up an ever larger share of the Sundarian GDP, so does the influence of the de Savony family.

Lady Neomi has had a relatively sheltered childhood away from the large city, but since she started attending business school she's a welcome and frequent guest in the cities establishments as well as private house parties. Interests lay with marketing and sales, in which she's is currently finishing her bachelors degree.

"Milady, Miss Shanora,"

Neomi started after she sat down,

"It is a honour to meet you both and thank you for this opportunity. From what I hear the Veolians are more then capable merchants, that know how to place new products in the market. I'd consider it a great pleasure to learn from them.

I've already discussed this opportunity with my father and like me, he believes that this position would benefit my experience greatly, as well provide the ambassador with large basis for negotiating trade agreements that would benefit both the Veolian Commonwealth as well as the Sundarian Federation.

I'm sure you have questions, so fire away.."

[Tayu Shanora]

"Lady Neomi, you hail from a well known family. One that is rumoured to be on the rise due to their economic influence."

"It is of importance that you understand what you will be agreeing to, should you be selected. Could you explain to me how you think those at the imperial court will view you, and how this might affect your standing and your family's standing with other Sundarian nobility?"

Shanora was quite taken with this young woman's appearance, even though she seemed a bit sheltered.

"Since you brought up the topic of trade negotiations, what is your opinion on the recent rejection of a Veolian offer to buy a majority share in the Conductive Polymers Corporation?"

[Lady Peinaili de Montrève]

"Ofcourse, miss Shanora, "

Neomi started,

"From what I've been able to gather thus far, myself and the other members of the Ambassador's retinue are to pass as his mistresses and broker deals and trades on his behalf. I believe its customary for all of the Veolian Commonwealth's noble houses to be represented by women in public, so in order to adhere to the custom's at court the Ambassador must do the same. In other circumstances the Ambassador's wife could have filled that role, but that isn't possible here; I hear due to prevent conflicts of interest and any hints of favouritism.

I've already grown accustomed to advances from other people, mostly men. There isn't a party I can't go to without some of them trying to steal a smile, a kiss or dance; I usually return with loads of presents and flowers and draw a lot of attention. On occasion this does cause a scene, for example when I draw more attention to me then the birthday girl gets.

My father believes that a chance of scenery might do me good and offers me a sense of protection as well, lastly it would also add to my mystique.. which would benefit my reputation and open up a whole new social class of contenders from my hand in marriage. As for my family's standing, we never really cared much about what the other families thought of us, we never have, as long as we are happy and our businesses flourish my father is a content man, which can be very generous at times."

Neomi paused brielfy to take a sip from her tea and make some small talk, before she answered to last question Shanora had asked her. Even though she hadn't expect something like that, it was clear she really enjoyed the question.

"Ah yes... interesting decision to say the least." She started out diplomatically, "One I would never have refused. The offer made the Commonwealth as a fair one, and would benefited us more that the lease agreement that was signed instead."

Lady Neomi that moves in a bit closer and toned down her voice a bit, so that it was harder to hear as she continued,

"Now I hate to gossip, but as far as one can trust a rumour I have it on good authority that Civil Integrity Committee is currently investigation the corporate board of the Conductive Polymers Corporation. No only in light of this, strange decision, but also concerning the alleged involvement in the theft of heavy weaponry shipments from the Sundarian Government..."

As she saw the suprised reaction of the Lady de Montréve as she shared the latest gossip Neomi stopped talking as said,

"I apologize milady, Miss Shanora, perhaps I've gone to far with this. Its just that, with some many men around me, enjoying themselves, hoping to impress me and win a dance with me, one cannot help but overhear certain things one shouldn't know..."

[Tayu Shanora]

By now Shanora had picked up on the fact that although sundarian nobility, and not in the least lady de Montrève, had certain expectations with regards to outward appearances some of the ladies were very adept at circumventing those expectation with a turn of phrase or a small misplaced word. So, Shanora paid close attention to the way Neomi expressed certain facts.

"It was interesting to meet you, lady Neomi. I'm sure that, if you are selected, you will impress a great many at court. You will surely have to contend with more than a few advances...", Shanora paused for a moment, "Make sure you want that."

"Lady de Montrève, I have no further questions for the lady Neomi at this moment."

[Lady Peinaili de Montrève]

"I shall think on that matter a little while longer," Neomi responded, "It has been an honour and a pleasure, Tayu, Milady. I thank you both for your interest and this opportunity." The conversation continued for a little while, making some polite small talk before Peinaili showed Lady Neomi out and invited the last candidate in.

.....

A little while later, after a short break, the next candidate was brought in and she was announced as Princess Jennifer Xbosna Pavlgia Obotanga. The notes Shanora had, had surprisingly little to tell her time.

Very little is known about this Princess Jennifer, apart from her descendance from the influential Obotanga tribe, one of the eldest and largest Nomadic tribes with the Sundarian federation. Normally the Obotanga tribe doesn't interfere with the Sundarian Politics, they have no representation in or dealings with the cabinet, nor are members of the tribe ever seen in the city.

The title King/Prince/Princess of the Obotanga is officially purely titular and holds no De Jure lands or vassals, but the Obotanga have used the title for many generations and the Sundarian have come to respect the legacy of the Obotanga Dynasty.

"Lady de Montrève, Tayu Shanora, it is a pleasure to make your acquaintance." She simply stated as she waited for her servant to arrange some pillows so that she could sit down.

Peinaili herself was a little surprised as her last guest was announced and aside from greeting her guest properly she was at a lost for words.

[Tayu Shanora]

Shanora, not really aware of the uniqueness of the situation, was slightly confused by the silence from lady de Montrève. Usually, she was quick to greet the candidate with a few words.

"Princess Jennifer, it is an honour to meet you.", she started, "I would like to ask you a few questions."

"As I understand it, your tribe is not represented in the sundarian council, nor do they show any indication of interest in sundarian politics. What has changed to bring you here?"

"And secondly, could you explain to me how you think those at the imperial court will view you, and why you would make a good member of mister Pendra and lady Khaw's retinue?"

Again, the same simple questions. Shanora became a bit bored with them, but the answers each candidate provides have proven to be of value.

[Lady Peinaili de Montrève]

"Pleasure is entirely mine, princess," Peinaili replied and then asked the same question posed by Shanora, "though I must admit I'm rather surprised to see you here. We haven't had contact with your people in quite some time, what has changed that would warrant a trip to the city?"

"Thank you," Jennifer responded, "While it is true that our tribe limits its dealings with the Sundarian Politics and we have not shown interest in it for many years, my father beliefs that the recent developments warrants some form of protest. Though we strongly rely on traditions and our ancient laws of the Obotanga tribe, we also seek to uphold the laws of the Sundarian Federation when possible.

We have recently become aware of several changes to the laws governing the Defence of the Sundarian federation, specifically the regulations concerning a new military system and the abolishment of the right of the nobility to maintain private armies or security forces. I am here to petition the Council on my fathers behalf, if we are to adhere to this new law our entire social structure would collapse, effectively eradicating our ancient traditions and threaten the very existence of our tribe and our house.

My father wishes to know why the Council has come to make this decision and wishes to know the opinion of several other members of the nobility on this matter. I can say little more about this but this is the main reason I am here.

During a visit to one of the other tribes, I also learned about the positions that have become available within the retinue of a new ambassador, who is to be sent to the Veolian Commonwealth. I thought I'd step by and learn more about this posting and the Commonwealth in order to assess if I should inform my father whether or no we should consider involving ourselves.
While I cannot take up such a position, my father would simply not allow it, it may be beneficial to other members of my family."

"Tayu," She continued as she now directly addressed Shanora, "Would you be so kind to tell me more about the Veolian Commonwealth and the customs at Court?"

[Tayu Shanora]

Shanora was not amused that her secon question was being ignored. As the other person was a princess, she ignored her annoyance.

"Of course, your highness.", she replied with a friendly smile.

Shanora gave a short description of the commonwealth as it is today, and went into a little more detail on the customs at court. She made sure to explain the differences she knew of between Veolian and Sundarian nobility. She detailed the roles, duties and expectations of noblemen and noblewomen. After a quick glance at Peinaili, she also explained some of the practices at veolian court that she knew to be less then accepted in Sundarian courts.

Shanora deliberately omitted to make explicit how exactly the court would view the noblewomen that were going to be selected here as mister Pendra's retinue, opting to leave this implicit not to offend anyone.

[Lady Peinaili de Montrève]

Jennifer listened carefully to the explanation Shanora offered, as she took some time to consider her reply before responding

"Thank you Tayu and thank you for your time," she said, "At least now I know a little more about the Commonwealth and their traditions at court. I'll be sure to tell my father and perhaps he'll reach out at a later time. At this moment however, I think it is safe to say that Obotanga will not be sending any of our ladies to serve as a member of the Ambassador's retinue. I do however see several options through which we might be able to reach a beneficial agreement for both parties, either through trade or a exchange of knowledge."

Jennifer then directed her attention to the Lady de Montrève,

"Lady de Montrève, thank you for this opportunity to broaden my knowledge. If possible, I would like to speak with you about several other matters."

"Ofcourse, if you could just give me moment,"

Peinaili responded and she then looked at Shanora,

"I thank you, Miss Shanora, and I hope you have enough information in order to make your recommendations. If you need anything else you can ask any of the ladies in private, as agreed, or contact my staff. I'd like a moment in private with the Princess now, if you don't mind."

[Tayu Shanora]

"Of course.", was Shanora's reply, while she internally noted that lady de Montrève apparently thought her current guest more important than the Empress. A moment later she corrected herself, knowing that the lady was not used to slaves.

....

Two days later, Shanora once more visited lady de Montrève.

"Lady de Montrève, I have compiled a short list of candidates."

She sat down, after the sundarian noblewomen gestured for her to do so.

"I advice in favour of Lady Neomi. She has shown insight into the veolian culture only paralleled by lady Alëana, and her insights into economics will quickly improve her standing. Some might even view her as a threat, which is a good thing.

I would also advice in favour of Lady Daphne. Though she lacks the cultural insight of Lady Neomi, she has proven to have not only a sharp wit, but applies it with a vengeance. She has also shown remarkable comfort at some forms of social interaction not usually practiced in the Sundarian Federation. Her 'decision' to pick mister Pendra will improve his image.

Finally, I advice in favour of Lady Alëana. Thought her honesty might be a weakness, she shows a genuine interest in mister Pendra. I am sure that his fiance will appreciate the fact that those at court will not be able to divert her attention."

[Lady Peinaili de Montrève]

" Thank you for your recommendations, Miss Shanora," Peinaili responded " And I agree, these ladies are certainly suitable. I'll make the final arrangements and see to it that they are prepared to leave for the Commonwealth."