Meeting with the Caesar - Chyril 26th TT

[Ashari]

Ashari had gone home, bathed and changed before heading off to meet the Caesar. She felt refreshed and clean. Much of the feeling from the night prior had been washed away, but she still carried herself with the delicate bearing of a woman who'd seen a great deal of stress recently, which would mark her as looking somewhat different than she had the night before.

Wearing a velvet dress in the tone of copper, she attempted to radiate a warmth that she wasn't able to command in her features. It wasn't a Western dress this time, rather chosing to take the easier route of a simpler design that lacked the wooden contraption which she was beginning to think was the death of most women of World's Mouth, if not the entire Western Empire. Her hair was loose and waved about her exposed shoulders catching any and all light possible to reflect in blue-black radiance.

Pleasantries had been exchanged at the entrance of the Citadel, and she'd been let in easier than previously, which was nice indeed. Apparently her name was beginning to have some staying power. Being a hero had it's perks after all. Lead up to Andolin's office by one of the guards, she was introduced as "Lady Ashari Gywien," which she still wasn't comfortable with, considering that she truely lacked a title, but stepped in confidently none-the-less.

"Good afternoon, Caesar," she purred and dipped into a curtsey while the guard was still present. Protocol was just that, and she intended on following it, atleast while there were people watching. "Thank you for finding the time to meet with me."

[Andolin]

It was good that Ashari came at Tradetide, rather than morningtide. Andolin had passed quite a gravetide and had been in need of rest and rejuvenation. Awakening near noontide, he had been sure to drink some brandy and eat some fruit. He found it a tonic for his stamina.

When Ashari was announced, he allowed her to be shown into his office. He had regretted that she had disappeared from the coronation ceremony, as he had plans with her. Instead, he had to play with surrogates. Now that she had returned, he supposed that he needed to toy with her.

"Ah, Lady Ashari, how kind of you to call. I see you were bored at my coronation ceremony last night. It was a pity. I was saving a dance for you." More ways than one. "Some brandy?" he offered as he waved her to be seated.

[Ashari]

Ashari raised from her curtsey and met Andolin's gaze as the guardsman left, moving fluidly over to the chair infront of his desk. "No, not boring at all, I assure you." Truthfully, compared to the rest of the evening, it had been rather uneventful. "I made an aquaintence who was eager to discuss Citadel politics and explain to me how they work. I sometimes feel like I've barely got my head above water here. It is... quite different from King's Court in some regards." But not all. There is death and destruction here just like there. "And I even recieved a lovely escort home in the form of Lord Alrul. He's quite interesting, and certainly quite talented in his craft," she commented, though didn't divulge further.

"Brandy, yes, please," she replied with increased interest. She'd had wine with breakfast, but the glow was already wearing off. "I suppose you've just arrived to your desk?" A sly look, one of knowing surfaced at the question. She was indeed a mindcrafter and it wasn't beyond her to attempt to check his surface thoughts, but she hadn't even considered it, especially in the Palace proper. Rather, she had an entirely different angle to go off of. Andolin need not know that. With his increasing paranoia, it would be anyone's guess what he might come up with. Ash watched him with anticipation in the shape of a slight smile.

[Andolin]

"Politics?" Andolin asked with mild interest. "Do tell." He poured the brandy for both of them. "I do not recall this Lord Alrul, or his craft. Perhaps you can remind me." Is she trying to get me jealous? Ashari had confessed before about her ability to scheme. It was only natural for a schemer to assume that she would be scheming to get him, like half of the female population.

As she mentioned his recent arrival to his desk, he gave her a small smile. "I do like the comfort of my bed in the morningtide," he confessed. Especially when there are warm bodies beside me. "And you? Are you just rising ... after a long night?" With Lord Alrul no doubt. Her sly look all but confirmed it.

[Ashari]

"Mmm.. mostly just about how the Imperial Council works, and the voting. It is a most unusual system to me still - people deciding who ought be their leader, rather than bloodlines," she said, though she realized it was only due to such a thing that Andolin were able to get his title. "And some other interesting tidbits about the role of Caesar, what is expected, and a bit of an explaination on the roles of the different religions." For, where Ashari came from, there was only The One, and it was to Him that all trust was placed. No other gods or goddesses took part in the introduction of a leader. "Makes me curious as to where your religious allegiances lie, Andolin, but would it be too forward of me to ask?" The beautiful brunette was hardly trained in etiquette, and what she knew she'd picked up merely from coming in contact with those who were. She did know that posing the question as she had was hardly polite, but it wasn't entirely the same as asking outright. A youthful smile attempted to iron out any rude wrinkles in the conversation.

Dexterous fingers wrapped around the glass when offered, but she didn't immediately satiate her pallet with a sip. Instead, she continued in answering his questions, her face displaying some surprise. "Surely you know Lord Ashtallion Urdil of house Alrul?" If he didn't seem to recognize it after giving his full name, she'd be more than happy to explain that he was a hero of the Demon Hunt in addition to being a pupil and then teacher at the Univeristy of Magick. "I met him during the Demon Hunt, actually. So it was nice to see a friendly face last night. I know very few people of standing here," she continued.

It was rather generous of Andolin to assume that only half of the female population wanted to have their way with him. Perhaps that would've been the case when he was merely the Master of Protocol, but now, as Caesar, his selection was widened much futher. Even a man with such refined tastes as he would easily find seven women to fill the positions of Caesari. Infact, just last night alone he'd recieved several hopefuls, although today one was dead, so that limitted his choices by one tic.

"Who am I to blame you for your comfort? Hmm?" She intoned, but took pause to have an appreciative sip of Andolin's alcohol. One thing... he does have good taste in spirits. "I'd say it's just a note of jealousy. I was forced to rise early this morning, to sift through the rubble of my Guildhouse." The mage let the statement settle for a flicker. "I wagered the guess at your late rising merely because I otherwise would've expected condolensces on my loss. Aeris is dead," Ashari was trying so hard, but the last word caught in her throat. Embarassment at having Andolin watch her exposed feelings caused her to turn away slightly, biting at her bottom lip in attempt to focus on something else, if it were possible. She cleared her throat and swallowed, daring a glance back to Andolin. "My apologies," she compulsively offered, though she felt little remorse at the faux paus, more it was to cover her sensitivity on the subject.

[Andolin]

"Oh?" he replied with mischievous interest. "Perhaps I might learn something useful." Mirth danced in his eyes. "Just how does the Council work? And, what are my special duties?" He paused to sip brandy, hoping she would elaborate at length. Knowing the perceptions of others was a valuable thing.

"On the subject of religion, I am careful to offend no God or Goddess. They all exist, so there is no use to gaining a powerful enemy. As Caesar, I must defend all religions and all gods. I will also show respect for each," he assured her. Of course, he had taken a liking to Pan during his wild yahren, and still showed some preference for the God. Did he not have Pan's lucky charm amulet? One had to be grateful for that.

"No, I don't know the lord you speak of. He is of noble blood then?" Everyone in the Citadel that could pretend to dress well seemed to call themselves a lord. It was how Andolin had begun after all. "What sort of man is this Ashtallion? Where do his loyalties lie? This is a city where people are independent very briefly."

The gay tone and playful looks turned cooler as Ashari mentioned the death of Aeris. "The swanmaiden? Who killed her? Rubble of your guildhouse? It seems I have missed some news. What has happened?" he asked seriously.

[Ashari]

"I.. was given only the vaguest impression," she offered with a smile. "As you've already commented on, I didn't stay for long, but I was advised as to how important it is for you to get a wife as soon as possible, even that it is a bit of bad luck that you not have atleast one already... rather, earlier than yesterday that is. I was told it is a great benefit to have a Caesar who can bury his seed into his Caesarii on the eve of his Coronation," Anochrim hadn't, and look how that turned out. "But perhaps his magesty doesn't care much for luck?"

She nodded to his reply on religion. He was smooth enough, quick to say he took no true allegience, finding himself in general appeasement of the Pantheon. It was probably safest that way, both from the gods and from the people. Whatever his personal beliefs were, well... they were best left just as that.

"Yes, he is of noble blood. I believe he is from Kislovan..." Ashari wasn't entirely sure. Her eyes narrowed up a bit and she glanced upward in the universal facial expression of pause, let me think on that a flicker, but after the flicker had passed, she still wasn't sure. A subtle shrug lifted her shoulders. "Yeah.. I really can't remember. His allegiances lie with the 'good' if that means anything these days, though I can say little more on the subject from that... I'd also venture a guess that he'd align himself against opposition to the University - were there any, for he holds his collegues there in high esteem." He'd also align himself against any opposition of mine... She almost said it, Ashtallion had proven to be a good friend.

Andolin's questioning was good. It allowed her to concentrate on the facts, rather than the feelings. "Ashtallion offered to walk home with me, he's ever the gent. We'd arrived almost there when the scent of smoke drifted into the air. There was a banner on Temple Lane on fire, and it took my attention at first, but... that wasn't where the smell was coming from." Visions of the night prior were quick to fill her mind, but she merely watched them as if not apart, recounting what had happened with little detail mostly because it was unecessary. "My Guildhouse was on fire. I don't know what happened, be it accident or purposeful-"

She shook her head, and took another sip of the brandy, this one deeper, followed by another finishing the glass. Ashari was lying. She knew exactly who it was, and tonight she would orchestrate his demise with the help of Ketch and their very own council. Imperial politics weren't always in the hands of elected officials. Whether or not Andolin suspected was of little consequence, but she did her best to not suggest she knew what was going on. "Aeris was inside," she continued, licking her lips to wash away the remaining flavor of the beverage. "She was killed by the smoke, I'd guess."

The mage set the glass down before Andolin again, her expression saying she wanted more, though her words did not. "So, I suppose I won't be needing your help in securing her safety after all."

[Andolin]

"Oh ... the issue of wives," he laughed, wondering whether Ashari was angling to be one. "It is curious really. The position of Caesar is not hereditary, yet so much attention is paid to getting married and having lots of children. It is not that I mind," he confessed with a knowing smile. "As for the luck and spreading my seed at my coronation, I tried to do what I could, even without a Caesarii ... just for luck of course," he declared in a mock serious voice.

"You should also know that a coronation is not just a simple few marks. It lasts for at least a day; but, one could say that other ceremonies could be planned for the week, or even month, so there really could be plenty of time for me to sow my seed ... for the good of the Empire." The smirk on his face revealed his intentions.

"But, I seek only the finest of ladies ... rare talent ... rare beauty ... rare insight. Perhaps you know someone," he toyed with her. To make things perfectly clear, he gave Ashari an appraising look.

"So, this Ashtallion is a great mage then? Since I am good, I shall count on his allegiance," he replied glibly. Good in a bad way maybe.

"Fires at the Rose Guild are rarely an accident," he intoned darkly. She seemed rather naive about it; but then, he was ignorant of her knowledge on the subject. "I could look into the matter, if you wish," he offered sincerely. He would like to have Ashari feel beholden to him. In fact, he'd liked to have everyone feel beholden to him.

"I'm sorry Ashari. This was a great loss," he added seriously. He reached to touch her hand in empathy.

[Ashari]

"Is there nothing to the bloodline then?" There was general awe in her tone and expression. "I had thought that the situation with the previous caesar to be more of a rarity... due to his lack of heirs. Every Caesar is voted in? What is the point of so many wives then? Wouldn't they all be at a loss, your children included, when you lose that title?" It implied his death, but she didn't go so far as to say it. That would surely be innapropriate. "How strange... truely." The entire thing mystified her. Atleast in the West, were you married into royalty you were it forever, as were your offspring.

Andolin was quick to take the bait on farming metaphors, and it brought a cheeky grin to Ashari's face displaying how much his candor surprised and amused her. His list could've been one meant to describe her alone, and she found herself easily lending to the idea of Caesarii. His visual inspection was met with the most subtle movement of her chin raising to meet his wolfish eyes with an equalled predatory expression. Grace was growing on the once-rogue. Ash was enjoying the oppertunity to flex her seductive talons.

"I imagine it would depend on the terms, but not many women of such extrodinary quality are prepared to be caged," she replied evenly, though she itched to inspire him that there was no other woman that could fill the role the way she could. For, Caesarii had so many responsibilites aside from being talented, beautiful or insightful. She had to inspire, both her husband and her people. The greatest Caesarii would be loved by those whom she served, and who served her in return and who would remind the Caesar what he was sworn to do.

Protection of his vulnerabilites was also necessary, and as he touched her hand sympathetically she realized that he was not just a hunter sizing up prey, nor was he the cold, calculating politician; both of which she'd easily describe him as in personal company. She would've considered both qualities to be negatives and easily manipulated, but Andolin was not. His humanity was offered in exchange for her loss and it impresed her all the more. Men of such power were not supposed to be so gentle.

"Thank you, your compassion is welcome and very much appreciated," she replied, feeling more comfortable in his presence now that the weight of the fire had been lifted from her shoulders. "And your offer of assistance in pursuing the matter is accepted humbly." Her hand lingered under his unless he were to move it. "I don't know what I'm going to do, yet. I put so much into that building, and now it's all gone." Tom's money wasn't entirely spent, but a good chunk of it was, and he was going to be expecting it back eventually. It put her in a tight spot should he return.

[Andolin]

"Perhaps I was too flip," Andolin admitted. "I believe that if I have children and I did not do a terrible job as Caesar that the expectation is that the title would pass with the bloodline. Yes, I think it is important to have heirs quickly, hence the many wives. The many wives also is extra assurance that they will want to keep me alive so that they don't lose their places and also fight amongst themselves. It is good to have persons you sleep with want you to be alive," he laughed aloud.

"These extraordinary women I seek ... they would be caged without the need for the cage," he attempted to explain. "A nightengale is beautiful to behold, and to hear sing. Yet, if she could also be trusted to fly where she might, always returning home loyally, saving her song for the man who could have caged her. That might make one extraordinary, don't you think?"

He let his hand continue to rest on hers, since she did not move it. "We shall have to find something rewarding for you to do while we seek out the culprit. I did not realize that you had put much money into the project. Do you still wish to continue with your plan; or, now that you are free, would you seek some other opportunity?"

[Ashari]

His explaination of the bloodlines helped reassure her to the system, and that it wasn't entirely broken. If it were some sort of voted in official, lasting only a few yahren, well, she just didn't see the point in that sort of thing. The topic easily turned to the wives themselves, and to what he sought.

"I can easily see that that would be most ideal, but in the same way, why ought the bird save her song if her owner is out collecting more specimens? Might she feel somewhat neglected when faced with competition?" Ashari was hardly one to fear such a test, for she knew herself to be highly superior to most women in many ways, but of the same token, sometimes it wasn't even the Caesar's choice with whom he was to breed. Particularly if he took a wife for diplomatic reasons such as what Anochrim was attempting with the Trothgardian born princess. Eventually, the Trothgardians would expect an heir. "The more birds in the cage, no doubt, the smaller it feels," she suggested with more philosophy than she was prone to.

Not entirely sure on how much to disclose to Andolin she merely agreed with a head-nod that she needed to find something to do now that the Red Rose Guild was not an option. "Much money... yes... not all of which was my own," she confessed. Ash couldn't tell him it was Thomas' money, but now she'd said too much, and found herself attempting to back pedal by means of distraction.

Her fingers, laying lazily under his hand, moved ever so slightly, the knuckles just barely grazing the interior space until the backs of her fingers brushed against his palm, spreading to disperse evenly among his so that her fingers might easily mesh with his if she were so inclined. "You have a mage's hands," she commented, lifting her gray eyes from desk to meet his strong gaze. "I am free now, Andolin... free from the vestiges of it's past - and my own. I should like very much to move on." Fingernails, just long enough to catch along the surface of his skin toyed with his fingertips, tracing their lines delicately. "But I'm not prepared to trade one prison for another."

[Andolin]

"Some," he replied softly, "thrive on competition." He gave her a smirk. He was one such person. He felt more alive when there were rivals to overcome. yet, Andolin was a rather unique individual.

He listened to her words carefully, and felt the movement of her hand beneath his. It was a pleasing sensation. "I did not know that a certain style of hand was more indicative of a mage," he jested. He assumed she was still after him to admit he was a mage.

"The question, my dear, is whether anyone is truly free. We all exchange one prison for another. Look at me. By becoming Caesar, I have placed myself in a prison. Yet, it is something I want, and I am prepared to pay the price." Looking more deeply into her eyes, he continued.

"Everything worth having in this world comes at a price. The question is whether one is willing to pay it. Women are known to chide men because they like their freedom. It is cast as a fear of commitment. It is seen as a weakness in men, but a strength in women. See, you benefit from the double standard there," he laughed.

"Let us discuss a gilded prison if I may. The role of Caesarii is an exalted one for the right woman. She has the ability to speak out on things with the derivative power of the throne behind her. She will know no want. Life will afford her every comfort. She can travel the world as an important dignitary, catered to in every port. She has the chance to bear the royal heir and play a key role in his or her upbringing. She shares her husbands desire to secure the power and perrogatives of the throne. That presents challenges ... and dangers."

"Yet, no one doubts the maternity of an heir. It is only the paternity that is in question. In this world of magic and gods, perhaps that can be assured as well. But, to the people, the appearance of fidelity is important. If a Caesarii is seen frequenting brothels and having all sorts of men being entertained privately, she will be ridiculed and minimized. She will find herself ostracized, even if her actions might have been innocent. Caesar's wives must be seen as bearing Caesar's children if they are to have a hope of being an heir. That is the double standard for which women suffer," he admitted.

"I'll admit to you that it is unfair for the wife to be singular when the husband is not. I'm not sure what the answer is, other than Caesar will spend his time with the one that intrigues him the most. Perhaps there is room for some flexibility, if it is discreet, does no harm to the throne, and advances the interests of the throne. I would try to be a fair man I think. One returns what she is given."

"The position of Caesarii is not for everyone. It has its disadvantages. A woman not a Caesarii would not be bound by its rules. And, that would be no barrier from being close friends nevertheless. One could choose the path of independence, without the requisite commitment, and still find oneself satisfied. We could find some other type of alliance, I am sure," he offered as his thumb began stroking her hand.

[Ashari]

"Not necessarily indicative, but more easily lent to. With a mind as sharp as yours, I imagine you'd make a wonderous sorcerer." He still wasn't going to admit to any magicking. She'd given it several casual tries in their past conversation and all had been rebuffed via sly smiles and evasive answers. This time was no different. What caused her continual interest was the fact that he never said he didn't do magick, which was how anyone who knew nothing about it usually replied. It made sense, she supposed, the Caesar was far from usual.

Andolin also had a winning argument as to why being Caesarii was of much interest and allowed great oppertunity far outweighing the costs. She listened quietly and attentively as he explained why. A smirk betrayed her interest at how persuasive he was. If she hadn't thought of the oppertunity as being absolutely fabulous before, she surely thought it was now. Ashari had said the cage was bothersome, and that it seemed like a prison no different from the Gaols except for it's lavish decor, but she could think of no place other than it. Nor could she think of a woman more suited to be his first Caesarii. She was a beautiful hero in the eyes of the City (and abroad), and a fitting compliment rising from nothing to be such.

"I think I would very much like to be your close friend, Andolin," she nearly purred as he stroked her hand. "And, I might be able to manage that gilded cage, were there someone so intriguing as you to keep me company in it." Ashari was a confident young woman, but not so bold as to throw herself into the lion-pit by saying she wanted him, or that she wanted to be his Caesarii. Atleast, not yet, though she was leaning precariously over such a precipice to say as much.

[Andolin]

As he had consistently done before, her queries about being a sorcerer were rebuffed with only a sly smile. He preferred to admit nothing.

"Ashari," he began, "let us speak frankly, shall we? I like you. Though I can't place my finger on the reason why, I think we might be a wonderful couple together. But, we have known each other for a matter of days. For all you know, I could eat small children for breakfast, and you could be a succubus sent from the Western Kingdom to suck my soul out in lovemaking," he laughed.

"So, let me propose a little game. I need to know you better before making any important decisions concerning who I might wed. I could court you for weeks, get to know your friends and family, and determine what little things cause you to smile and frown ... or, we could accelerate the process by letting me interview you for the position of Caesarii."

"The rules are simple. You must answer me completely and honestly. Any lies I detect will disqualify you completely. I am not looking for a brood mare in you. There are plenty of pretty faces to offer that. No, I envision something more between us; but, to have that, I must trust you completely. I must see you as a partner in the project of making the throne all that it can be, and to protect it from my ... and your enemies. I cannot just take the word of a stranger, notwithstanding how delightful a person she is. So, I ask you to submit to a line of probing questions. Some will be fun ... some will be uncomfortable. But, I hope you will understand the necessity."

"If you do this and satisfy me, I will let you ask some questions of me. I will answer honestly, but reserve the right to be evasive and cryptic in my replies. You cannot enjoy such liberty. I must know you Ashari. I must see your soul laid bare before me. That is more important than seeing your bosom laid bare before me. It is an exceedingly nice bosom I might add. Do you understand? Will you accept the challenge?" he asked softly.

[Ashari]

Ashari's brow raised ever so subtly, and she nodded as he suggested they talk frankly. Had they not been doing thus so far? It did, however, pique her interest as to what exactly he was interested in. He insisted he wanted no brood mare, nor that he wished to just have his way with her physical form. Both would've been justified, considering his position. It made sense for him to still be wary of her. They'd not known eachother over-long and he was in a place of great power. One had to be mindful of one's friends and even moreso of one's lovers.

His proposal of questions reminded her of their previous encounter. He'd been just as curious then, and she'd been compliant in answering his queries. That meeting had just been for patronage. This one, it seemed, had turned into something much more. "No evasive answers at all?" Ashari gave a playful pout that quickly turned into a smirk. "Alright, Andolin, let's play your game. Ask anything you'd like," she said confidently.

[Andolin]

Pleased that she did not resist, he sat back and began to ask the questions that lingered in his mind. "If you were to aspire to be Caesarii, your friends might become my friends; but, certainly, your enemies would become my enemies. I think I have a right to know what enemies I would be gaining. Likewise, your friends might be seeking favors and I would be inclined to assist them, so I would know who would become my friends as well. This would include, obviously, any former lovers, especially those in the Empire. I am less concerned about anyone in the West," he admitted.

"I suppose that I should add that I wish to know if you love someone else. You indicated that you are free; but, sometimes, one thinks oneself free of a person only to find old feelings reignited when they see that person again," he mused aloud. He had many more questions, but he decided that this was a good place to pause for her answers.

[Ashari]

"Well, Ashtallion Urdil, for one, I would consider a friend," she replied evenly, and already her mind was churning - deciding who else she considered worthy of such a title. There were so very few. "Ulderon Synkaaros and I were once friends, though I would consider us less so of late. Not enemies... hardly. We're easily civil, but I turned down his offer of assisting him in his voyage to Pax," she didn't know the relationship between Ulder and Andolin, but did know that they had been rivals for the crown. "I'd say we've reached the point in our relations that neither owes the other favors. There are also those remaining from the Demon Hunt. All of which I shall forever be linked to, merely if out of remembrance of that aweful night," she shrugged and as their conversation moved from flirtation to interview, she removed her hand, sliding the empty glass his way as a suggestion. "I have a student, Aerin. She's not particularly a friend, but I find her rather interesting and believe she has potential to be more than the farm-girl she was raised as. I've given her promise of training in my arts, as well as how to become a proper lady."

Indeed, she thought Aerin had great potential to be very influential. That was, with the right training. "I have very few friends, Andolin." It was the truth. "As far as enemies, I suppose that will depend on how easily I'm able to pay back what I owe," she replied casually. She had little doubt of being able to secure the funds necessary to give Tom back what he'd invested. "Aside from that, I've made no enemies here that I know of."

He questioned her on love. "I love no one aside from myself," she responded. "I've had only one lover since Iorn, but... that was something entirely different. He saved my life. I was repaying a debt." It was a truth hiding a lie. She had needed Ketch that first evening. Ashari had no doubt that the thief was absolutely in love with her, but she'd been unable to have any true feelings for him, no matter how she tried, over the past half-yahren. "Repaying a debt and satisfying an itch," she added. Ashari was hardly shy about her sexual appetite nor the fact that it needed to be satiated. "The only man I ever loved should provide no competition." She waited for more questions.

[Andolin]

Silently he noted her acquaintances. It had been no surprise that she lauded Ashtallion, given the praise she had given him before. The fact that she was not close to Ulder was a good thing.

"If you become Caesarii, Ashari, you will have even fewer true friends, and many more enemies," he warned ominously. Andolin, too, had felt alone upon the throne. Fortunately, he liked himself a great deal, so he did not mind the company.

"No enemies?" he asked with a voice almost disbelieving. "How sad." He then flashed a smile at the jest.

"Tell me three sets of things, if you would. First, why do you want to be Caesarii? Second, as an advocate for yourself, tell me why I should choose you over the thousands of others. Last, tell me, as if your worst enemy why it would be a mistake for me to marry you." The questions were quite serious, but the hint of a smile demonstrated that he relished putting her in a difficult position.

[Ashari]

"I find that no-one, be they important or otherwise, has many true friends. In all honesty, I hardly fear enemies, but rather those who would pretend to be a friend in order to gain something, hurt myself, you, or the Empire," It was a political reply, but honest. If she were to marry Andolin, she'd consider them to be quite close and wouldn't want any harm to come to him.

"It's because everyone who meets me likes me," And if they don't, they die. She responded with equal joking and increasing ego.

The questions continued. The more he asked, the less she was thinking about her responses. Instead she spoke quickly and with little apprehension. "I'd like to be Caesarii for several reasons... though rather self-involved, I'd like to never worry about money again. For almost my entire life I've wondered if I'd be able to afford a night in an inn or breakfast the next morning." There was a shame in admitting this. Ashari enjoyed taking care of herself, as well as keeping up the appearance that she had no problem in doing thus. "I never want to think of it again. I would also like my children to afford the same," she continued. "But, it's not just my own children I worry after, but the children of the Empire at large. I should like to serve, to give back to them as I have since my first heroic acts in the West." A tad trite, but she couldn't think of a better way of wording her interest in making sure the general populace was taken care of. "There is, also, my insatiable curiosity of your own person. I find you to be... intriguing, for lack of a better description. As Caesarii you would have in me your complete confidence, and I would like very much to use that to my most advantage by getting to know you most intimately.

"As to why I'd be the best, I must admit, I can see no other person better fitting the task. Being a Queen, something I'm more familiar with, as that's what we have back home, is a position not just of the people, but also of her husband. I believe that I can attest to how helpful I would be merely by pointing out that I'm here and that you're asking me these questions." She smiled daringly. "I'm a hero, here and abroad, Andolin, and I didn't get that way by being stupid or doing things the wrong way. If you factor that against how many situations I've survived, and well... one can easily see I'm a quick thinker. I bring that, as well as my own particular sway to diplomatic arrangements. With correct tutiledge in etiquette I'd be a formidible opponent to anyone chosing to strike against you."

It was only at the last question she had to ponder, deciding what exactly her enemy might say of her. Her eyes flicked to the still empty glass. Inwardly, she sighed. For a man who was so eager to refill my glass last time, he's surely lacking in such response this time. Her non-verbal cues were lost on him. She hoped it wasn't always the case, or he was likely to miss many subtle hints of conversation. Perhaps he was just caught up in his interrogation. "I can become bored... somewhat easily, if not entertained." Ashari started slowly, beginning to consider her words. "Disinterest in the matter at hand causes me to look elsewhere for proper stimulation. I wonder if that would ever be a problem with you," she lifted her gray eyes to meet his and her pace increased. "I doubt very much it would, and so... I would say my greatest enemy would accuse me of coldness merely out of my own fear. I've lost so very much, Caesar." It was the first time she'd used his title in a while.

She felt somewhat uncomfortable, and he wasn't questioning her because of being Andolin but because of his position.Or so she imagined, for she hadn't known him before his time of power. It was easier to lump it onto the mask of leader. "Family, friends and lovers. It can make me hard sometimes due to the thought that I might lose you- er.. or, lose someone," she corrected. "I don't want to be alone, but the easiest way to assure not feeling that pain again is not getting close." Here she chewed thoughtfully on her bottom lip, her fingers laced together and fiddling. She wasn't sure if these were the answers he wanted.

[Andolin]

It was a mixture of sincerity and political speak that Andolin heard from Ashari. That was a good thing really. A Caesarii needed to speak in a way to make people think that she was selfless, regardless of the reality. Had not Andolin recognized the value of appearances?

She might find his blue eyes affixed on her gray as she spoke. He felt he needed to watch a person's eyes as they spoke, for they were sign posts of possible fact versus fiction.

Her answers were good ones, so he leaned forward to refill her glass. He had been waiting to hear her responses before doing so. If she had been insincere or inarticulate, he might have had to cut their interview short. His favorite answers were those in which she signaled that she would look out for him. That is what he needed to hear. He also needed to sense that she was not in a position with wanting to do away with him so that she might seize power for herself.

The formality of the interview changed. Adopting a more relaxed posture, he gave her a smile, as if to signal her that she was doing well ... and that he intended to toy with her. "Why do you find me intriguing? Is it my dark handsome looks, the determination you see in my eyes, the confidence, mystery, power, wealth, or is it my humility that impresses you the most?" he laughed aloud.

[Ashari]

Ashari lifted the glass after it'd been refilled and brought it to her full lips, taking a small pull. The clarity of the glass was exquisite. Another of the many benefits of being Caesar. Refractions lit her face with a myriad of sparkles. Noticing his relaxed posture she gave a returned smile and swirled the brandy in the glass. She watched it attentively, almost as if it were more interesting than the man before her, which was surely a game.

The questions continued, but she hadn't expected them to turn so quickly toward more interesting subject matter. Ashari was beginning to suspect that he was more interested in a scheming beauty that could hold the position of Caesarii rather than a wife. That fact that he wanted to know what she thought of him personally was more to her liking. Ashari smirked at his boastfulness. One lazy finger squeaked around the rim of the glass followed by a gentle tap of her fingernail the tell-tale crystal ring following in the hum after his laughter.

Considering the beverage for nothing more than a flicker, Ash rose using every measure of her feline grace. Her eyes stayed with his. "That... is a difficult question to answer," she said as she slid the glass back onto the desk, the contents swishing back and forth from the movement. Her eyes, however, remained fixed to his as if such menial tasks were unecessary to follow through with vision. "I might have to take a closer look to decide."

One hand went to her hip (the left) in a young fashion and reminder to her age. The other meandered the lines of his desk, following it's intricasies as if memorized while she paced it's length, then depth and closer with swaying hips until she might find herself next to him. Her eyes flicked between his and squinted in concentration as she lowered her face and scrutinized him more closely. Were he to look away from her inspective eyes he'd be offered a generous view down her velvet dress to the decolletage contained within.

"It is your eyes," she decided. "But not the determination, though it did initially draw me... your power and wealth coming along close second and thirds - and who can deny you your charm or dashing," here, she smiled charmingly, "good looks?" Her smile didn't fade as she continued, still ever-so-close to him, the scent of her recently imbibed brandy mirroring the taste in his mouth. Ashari chanced a glance down at that very mouth, though only the briefest of looks, not wanting to give away her game entirely... not wanting to be another mere bed-warmer for the politician.

"There is a darkness mixed in with all that, though..." Slight goosebumps raised along her arms, shoulders and neck - perhaps visible, perhaps not. It likely depended on how carefully one were to pay attention. "It's to that that I find myself called to - like a moth to flame," she breathed. Her voice had dropped dramatically, both in it's tone and volume as she approached, leaving it now at a lover's whisper.

[Andolin]

Andolin remained silent during her appraisal. That was an unusual thing for him. As she kept eye contact, so too did he. Yet, his field of vision could capture the feline grace in rising, the sway of her hips, and the generous view she was affording of her cleavage. Yet it was her eyes that attracted him.

Poets might say that the eyes were the windows on the soul. Andolin might have agreed. They could not be manipulated to pretend interest, as a forced smile might. They could reflect intelligence, truth, perceptiveness and interest.

Andolin knew all about seduction. He knew how to perform it, and he knew when the art was being performed. Ashari was interested in him, and he was interested in her. She would be mistaken if she thought it was sex that would decide things in her favor. It wouldn't. Interestingly, he gave her credit with knowing that. So, he was not overly suspicious of her motives.

He smiled at her praise, and her attempt to appear forthright. He did not move forward to possess her in any way. He preferred to play games with those he really liked. In a game, he played to win. The one who gave in to the seductive advances of the other was the loser in such games. Thus, it was important to maintain control. Control was the most potent of aphrodisiacs to him.

"Gray," he muttered. He was looking in her eyes when he said it. "Gray is the color of timelessness Ashari. Gray is the combination of light and darkness. Creatures of light and darkness are weaker than creatures who meld the two together." She had mention how darkness attracted her. Her very flesh seemed to demonstrate that.

"Darkness brings danger, temptation, and excitement. You seem to wear darkness like a silken garment. I wield it like a weapon. If we are to be together Ashari," he whispered enticingly, his bejeweled finger moved up to lightly trace a line from her shoulderblade down to her cleavage, "we must compliment each other and not be at odds. The one unforgivable sin is betrayal. I will not betray you. I would protect you and aid you always, and I would expect the same from you. It is not much really, but seems foreign to those of us who have been loners in life before. You would be alone no more. Nor would I." He did not ask for a pledge. He only sought an understanding.

[Ashari]

As Andolin's hand moved to delicately brush across her exposed flesh she took a quick breath of anticipation, but didn't dare break their eye contact for she was much too interested in what he had to say. His words continued as did his meandering fingertip. It flitted against her warm skin which would've been flushed were it not for her dusky tone, something she was particularly thankful for during their little game. "I'm not all dark all the time," she said with a playful pout with subtly fluttered lashes.

In his monologue she found the most connectedness since Ketch. He understood what it meant to be alone. It might've been a past pain or loss, or perhaps several, and now here upon the throne he had numerous persons clammering for his attention, but rarely one who didn't just need him but also offered something. "You're right. It might not seem like much to everyone, but it is all we have sometimes," she said in an even tone, losing some of the seductive edge in face of his honesty. "You can trust me, I will always keep your confidence." Ashari intoned with equal candor.

And just as much as Ashari wasn't dark all the time, she also couldn't be business all the time, either. For fear of their witty repartee being lost into a recess of serious discussion she asked, "What's your favorite dessert?" One of her chiseled brows raised just slightly, followed by the side of her full lips lifting into a teasing smirk which she was quick to repress by looking away for a flick and then back almost immediately with her smile less obvious but still there. She wanted to judge whether he'd take it as an actual question wanting an honest answer or a playful pun.

[Andolin]

As she professed the white in her soul, Andolin gave her a knowing smile. "I too am only dark at times."

As she declared her trustworthiness, the jade in Caesar replied, "trust is earned. But, I find myself believing you anyway." He wanted to encourage her after all.

Surprised by the turn of the conversation, Andolin leaned back in his chair somewhat (notwithstanding the enticing proximity of the sorceress). "My favorite dessert?" Clearly, she was playing with him. As such, he paused to consider an answer. Nothing witty came to him at the moment, so he replied, "I like variety. So how about sugared mixed nuts? Both salty and sweet. I like contrasts and complexity in my meals."

"What type of meat do you like?" he asked, offering her an opportunity to play with an answer.

[Ashari]

When Andolin used the change in conversation to instead sit back in his seat, Ashari couldn't help but feel it was a momentary setback in their subtle game. Inwardly she frowned, but it only showed in the dimming of her eyes that had been sparkling in ready for what might be a more inappropriate answer. His response was, in turn, met with her using the following pause before asking his own food-related question to shift so that she leaned her bottom against the edge of the desk, her arms on either side of her holding her weight so that she might cross one leg over the other. The only sight of which was the rustling of her full skirts beneath the soft velvet exterior. They shifted nearly without sound, implying silken layers rather than the courser ones more usual.

Her back arched while settling into a comfortable position as he posed his query, and finally, in time with the finishing of his words, she paused and considered it, the inspiration of which was a quick glance over his form from her new position where she was afforded a more appreciatable view without the desk between them. "That which I find to be most delactable is most definately based upon it's rarity," she responded, her almond shaped eyes returning from their swift voyage over his body to meet his with a smile. "But I also enjoy goose."

Ash allowed the minor smile to broaden into a grin which she was all too ready to use to ask her own question, for it could get rather boring for them both were he to offer all the quandries. "Would you indulge me a request, then?" Her weight shifted effortlessly so that she leaned on her right arm, her left draping over her lap to hang above him, but not touching. Delicate fingers dangled in tantalizing stillness over his leg with nonchalant accuracy. "Name me three wishes. Tell me that which you want above all else if it were merely just by saying it that you could have it." That bright grin, though somewhat lessened by her speech, still lingered as well as her rapt attention. The mage's only movement was gentle breaths and her eyes flicking between his in amusement.