Ardalt has a curious form of governnt, unique among the post-Gharic states. On its surface it follows the Gharic tradition precisely, giving voice to a very few wealthy n who use the governnt as a cudgel to control and exploit their fellows. Indeed, one might be forgiven for saying that it has maintained that tradition more faithfully than any other.
But Ardalt was never truly Gharic. They were, like us, a foreign people; they were, like us, oppressed under Ghars boot. But where we had our faith to sustain us, the Ardan clansn had only a long tradition of rule through strength. He who could take sothing deserved it. He who could not defend his holdings deserved none.
The lesson they gained in the conquering of their holand was therefore very different from ours.
- Saleh Taskin, On Reclamation, 687
His good mood lasted until the small hours of the morning, when he woke to a dark room. It had been only a couple of hours since he had laid down; even without looking he could feel the still-warm hearth at the far end of the room. The embers resonated with his soul, their heat a constant tickle at the edge of his awareness. He focused on it for only a mont, not willing to risk suddenly illuminating the room; instead, he padded out to the rooms narrow balcony and watched the snow fall across the alley.
The city was calm; it was a marked contrast from the dread and fear that had choked every city hed visited for so ti now. It felt normal - yet it was not his normal, not anymore. The thought made him chuckle softly. An oddity, he murmured, to nobody in particular.
The snow fell, a light dusting that tapered off to a few scattered flakes as mornings light began to tint the horizon. Michael made his way back inside as quietly as he could, finding a few of their number up and going about their morning tasks. Ricard was among them; the old man smiled as he walked in - then frowned.
Milord, its freezing outside. Were you out there barefoot? he asked, rushing over to brush the snow from Michaels shoulders.
Michael smiled. I dont feel the cold like I used to, he said. Its fine, Ricard, really. I could sleep outside in my nightclothes with no ill effects.
The manservant pulled back to give him a reproachful look. Be that as it may, milord, there is so value to observing the proper dress for every scenario. We do it for more than comfort and warmth; it is a practice that shapes our behavior and tells others what we are about.
Thats - a fair point, Michael sighed. I havent had much call for proper dress lately, and even less opportunity; I suppose my standards have slipped sowhat.
Ricards brows knit together. That will not do, he said. Especially not if youre to address the assembly today. They claim a certain savvy, but in my experience they value nothing save for appearance; therefore, you must have it in abundance. He placed a hand on Michaels back, guiding him towards one of the suites side rooms. Co. Lets get you prepared.
Michael was not surprised to see that Ricard had brought several of his suits, along with a shaving kit and various other items from Michaels personal effects. Before the sun had co up properly, he found himself shaved and dressed, his hair impressed into so semblance of order, his hands for once clean of dirt and gri.
When he returned to the common area he found that Sobriquet had likewise been subject to Helenes ministrations. Unai and Zabala stood beside her; Zabala wore his fine attire of questionable provenance, while Unai had sohow procured a respectable, undamaged suit. He looked much-improved in the clean attire, his thin, drawn appearance looking rely severe when placed above a collar.
Lets be about it, Unai rasped. I suspect they will endeavor to prevent us from entering, so we should allow extra ti.
I wasnt aware that you two were intent on coming, Michael said.
Zabala sniffed. The involvent of the Star makes this a ndiko affair. The embassy staff will be in attendance at todays session. Unai and I will be available to you, or them - or to the needs of the mont.
The last words had an ominous sound in Michaels ears, but Zabalas expression gave nothing away. Michael sighed and nodded, turning to the others. Lars, Charles, he said. Theres a potential for things to go awry today-
Just today? Charles asked.
Michael gave him a tolerant look. More so, he said. We may have to leave on short notice.
Well secure a ship, Lars confird. Minimum of threatening language, but Ive discovered Charles is good for that. He has a talent for unnerving people without speaking overmuch. He looked at the other man, who grinned; Lars nodded. Yes, like that.
I appreciate it, Michael sighed. He turned to Ricard. Will you and Helene be all right? We may be traveling soon-
Ricard waved him off. Never you worry, milord, he said. We know what were about. You keep your mind on whats to be done at the Assembly.
Michael nodded gratefully and turned to Sobriquet. Shall we? he asked.
She took his arm. Lead on, Lord Baumgart, she said. Lets invite ourselves in.
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