A Common Trade

[Kay-Larr]

Some of Kay's staff had scoured the holonet in search of more expansion in their list of allies and trading partners. Fort Galderra was one of the ones that came up. Reading a little on it's history and government structure, Kay had sent word on ahead for it's King [member="Eddak Manod"] to know that she was planning to visit.

A standard week later, her ship; The Free Lady, requested permission to land and coordinates for Galderra's ship port. Fortunately the modified freighter wasn't large in size.

Inside her quarters, Kay drank her tea while going over some of the items in her gift basket. As she had learned while other monarchs visited her home on Commenor, gifts for the host was common practice. She didn't plan on any offence in that regard.

Once the Free Lady had landed and powered down, Kay stepped down the ramp, gift basket in hand. She had no staff with her other than two guards, dressed in light armour that was coloured to resemble the Commenori flag.

 

[Eddak Manod]

[member="Lady Kay"]


With the city just recently upgraded to more, structurally sound and, tougher building materials, it was still undergoing some construction in places. Fort Galderra, perhaps even soon to be called Castle Galderra, being the seat of primary power on Pzob. Galderra itself, while looking slightly primitive, still held its own strength. At the ship port, awaiting the arrival of Queen Lady Kay of Commenor, the Formal Advisor would be waiting. The Formal Advisor was one of many Advisors that stood by Eddaks side. They are much like Royal Courts of old, important Nobleman. They had command of anything they were assigned to... the Formal Advisor was in charge of foreign and internal affairs, to greet, welcome, aid, and help those who visit the King places to rest, to relax, and sleep. They also managed formal events and parades and such, and today, he would be greeting a Queen.

After noticing the flags of Commenor, and the soldiers rallying behind the woman of obvious stature, the Formal Advisor rushed over to the woman and bowed to her. "Greetings, Lady Kay, Queen of Commenor. I am Jeremy Franquis, he stated as four Troopers in old armor ran up behind him. They clutched their weapons, and bowed their heads. "Among the common guard we will have, these soldiers will also ensure your bestest safety while traveling here on Pzob, in Fort Galderra. We do not fear that any may attack you, my Lady, but the King insists anyone of monarchy must be protected if they were to ever visit. It is nice to meet you. I regret to inform you, that Fort Galderra doesn't have quite the expenses as the rest of the galaxy may hold, however we are very rich in culture, and I assure you, your transport will be as comfortable as we can possibly make it... the King's Carriage. King Eddak is waiting at his Keep, preparing arrangements." He said, graciously reaching his hands out to accept the gift basket, hoping to carry it for her so she didn't have to bear the burden.


The carriage had the finest fabrics, the seats were as comfy as could be, and stepping inside was like stepping into a gorgeous house, away from the outside air. Alongside it were militia of the cavalry and militia, ready at the guard to escort the carriage out of the city to the King's Keep.

---​

Meanwhile, at the Keep, Eddak was still getting his outfit tailored by his Fashion Advisor, or at least.... the finishing touches. "This should have been ready days ago, Alfred. This better not tear while the Queen is here," he brushed the chest off, making sure there was no excess threading clung to it before looking up in the mirror. "This is the first foreign monarchy we have been visited by, the things they could offer us, and they have galactic technology at their fingertips. I wouldn't dare lose our culture, but you and I both know the men would love a good shower, would they not?" Alfred was still threading the edges of the cape together, the very part Eddak didn't find necessary. He was a man of war, not a man of sitting around and looking pretty. "My apologies sir, but you know how hard it is to retrieve textiles, especially ones of this elegance. I only ordered the best for you, thankfully my best man was able to get here earlier than expected, otherwise I would have had to use the... medium-grade fabrics. It's the reason why I spilt pocket for you."

Eddak grinned, "I know Alfred, you do well for me. Uh... make sure that when my carriage arrives I am alerted so I may appropriately greet her. I should have met the Queen at the port, but, well, yeah..." The carriage ride would take only about twenty minutes, shorter if the Queen requested more than a slow trot of the four horses that led. Once the carriage was within sight of the main tower, Eddak would be alerted, and once the carriage was within minutes of the entrance, the small band of trumpets would play an entrance outside for the Queens arrival. Afred the Fashion Advisor would be waiting in front of the door.

 

[Kay-Larr]

Kay bowed her head to Jeremy as he greeted her. She smiled a little to herself as he apologized about what they lacked. It wasn't as though any of that bothered her in the slightest. "Pleasure to meet you. And don't worry about going out of your way to impress. I won't hold any of it against you. I'm of humble beginnings, myself. Don't let my title fool you." She gave him a wink. However there were some that would frown at the fact that she was more common than blue blood. But she didn't really care.

The gift basket was handed to him. It contained Commenori brandy, Sapir tea leaves and chrysopaz gemstones, all wrapped in various fabrics.

She got into the carriage, her two guards following suit. The trip there wasn't expedited at all. Kay took in the sights, the sounds and the smells. She was a fan of the outdoors and loved to explore. During the trip, she spoke quietly with Jeremy, telling him bits about Commenor, describing some of the best places to visit and what the people were like.

Her Force signature was shrunk down to that of a small tree nut. Contacts were over her eyes to hide the yellow speckles. Her Force Sensitivity was still very much a secret and she had no idea how the people here would receive such skills. Most weren't trusting of it.

Kay heard the trumpets as she arrived. Wow. Quite impressive. She exited the carriage, her guards followed suit and she smiled, taking in the Royal welcome. It was quite different than she was used to.

 

[Eddak Manod]

[member="Lady Kay"]


"The pleasure is mine, Queen Lady Kay. Allow me to show you to the carriage," if the lady thought any, she may have garnered that Jeremy was doing more than be kind. However, he was only showing his gratitude to the monarchy, and hoping to be some sort of representation of King Eddak and his new people. They were a widely cultured, while warring, folk. But even while they carry weapons, they carry justice and righteousness among themselves. Jeremy would have sat with the coach driver if Lady Kay hadn't wanted to speak with him, either seating was appropriate. Sitting with the driver would be to show the monarchy the seating is reserved for royalty, and together to chat so that the monarchy would not be alone on the long travel. Jeremy showed great enthusiasm towards their conversation, speaking about the history of Galderra, and how it came to have a ruling monarchy. Even going into Eddaks past of his campaigns against the gamorreans and the criminals that once laid great siege to Galderra many times.

Once they arrived, and the trumpets played, Jeremy exited the carriage and assisted Lady Kay out if she wished, by offering a hand to help her down. Still, carrying the gift basket in the other hand. As they approached the main Keep doors, the soldiers that marched behind had caught up behind them, calmly. Once they approached Alfred, the man barely touching his greying years, gave a gracious smile and bowed. "Welcome to the King's Keep, Queen Lady Kay, of Commenor." He turned to the side and walked out of the way as the gate opened. A man stood behind it, arms crossed as he waited for the gate to lift, dressed in expensive fabrics as he smiled and opened his arms as the portcullis finished raising.

"Greetings, Queen Lady Kay!" King Eddak said as he took a great, lengthy bow with arms outstretched. "I do beg of your forgiveness that I did not meet you at the port, unfortunately I was... tied up." He raised, looking at her. He did not wear a crown, both because he felt it was very much too formal, and because the great crown had not been completed just yet.

"Ah, my liege." Jeremy stepped up, kneeling to the side as he offered the gift basket from the Queen. "The queen, she comes bearing gifts." Eddak looked through the offering, smiling. Eddak took a special look at the brandy and the gemstones. They were exquisite, and too kind. "This is wonderful, Queen Lady Kay, but please... never think you must offer me gifts," he said with a soft voice, "it seems... your presence is the greatest gift of all." He reached his hand it in a cupping manner, or gesture to take her hand, as if to kiss it if she felt necessary. No matter her decision, after the greeting was complete, Eddak held his arm out, wondering if Lady Kay would understand the gesture. Unlike holding hands, Eddak would offer his elbow as it hung out, as the appropriate gesture for escorting a lady. "Shall I show you to a seat? Would you like anything while you stay? I think our chef can whip up anything you like, but I do believe we have some Moogan Tea already prepared. It is my favorite."

 

[Kay-Larr]

Kay took Jeremy's hand as she was escorted out of the carriage. "Thank you." She was soon led to Alfred, whom also greeted her in kind. Her eyes were taking everything in. It was different than some of the other places that she had been to, yet some of the customs were more or less the same.

The gate soon lifted. Kay raised a brow slightly [member="Eddak Manod"] 's almost theatrical entrance. First impressions weren't always correct, however. She smiled and bowed her head as he apologized. "Not to worry, King Eddak. I had good company during my trip from the port."

Kay just kept her polite smile as the King tried to flatter her with compliments, and took her hand to kiss it. Oh boy. She had a young lad do the same at a fundraising ball for the First Order. He never spoke to her again after she turned him down when he asked for a date.

Still, she was a guest and had a goal to accomplish. Kay took his arm as it was offered. "Moogan tea? I can't say that I've had the pleasure. But I shall give it a try. I have brought some Sapir tea leaves with me as well. That is my favourite."

 

[Eddak Manod]

[member="Lady Kay"]


For Eddak, he wasn't looking for a love affair, but neither was he looking to get a sweet deal out of the woman that stood before him. Upon taking on the monarchial culture, and practically drowning the fort in it, Eddak wanted to look right when it came to foreign affairs. A lawman and a soldier at heart anyway, he looked to try and do the right thing. This just seemed right. "Oh, the tea... it's probably a commoners tea, not the expensive kind. However, I grew up with it... it's always been my favorite. But does expensive really mean enjoyment? Sure... I could have a space-faring cruise ship constructed, live in luxury.... but that does nothing for me and my people." he continued, escorting the Queen from out of the main gate structure, into the rest of the yard. The two Advisors following suite. "I do appreciate your gift, I want you to know that. Perhaps we could have some of the brandy now, unless you would recommend I save it. I've heard some drinks are better aged... although I've never been accustomed to it." He idly handed off the basket to his Formal Advisor, keeping the brandy in his free hand.

As they continued to speak, they finally arrived to the smaller building towards the rear of the area. It overlooked the ocean over the cliff, still protected by walls. The Advisors hurriedly opened doors for them as they entered, Eddak obviously letting the queen enter first. It wasn't the most spectacular... but it did offer comfort. They took the stairs to the second floor, coming to the center room where two sofas and a few chairs were located. The two sofas facing each other, but beyond them, the rear wall of the building had glass doors. The Advisors opened them for the fresh air and the smell of the ocean sea. Eddak took a step over to one of the sofas, and gestured Queen Lady Kay to make herself comfortable in the other, waiting for her to sit. "I do hope the few luxuries we have here suit you, Queen Lady Kay. I do not wish to waste your time, so shall we get to business? I'm free to chat how ever long you wish, however." He finished as he lounged slightly on the sofa, hanging his arm over the back that held the brandy, but not quite laying down, just comfortable.

Well mannered? Yes. Casual? Doubly so. Eddak was kind and polite, but being a soldier at heart and doing nothing but fighting battles, taking a load off was just too natural, even in front of a lady. Rude? Perhaps to the witness, but it was meant by no disrespect. And if the witness requested the man not relax, he would straighten up.

 

[Kay-Larr]

Kay smirked a little as they walked. [member="Eddak Manod"] seemed a little self conscious in the fact that being a Queen, she might have expensive taste. But she didn't. Sapir tea wasn't costly by any stretch of the imagination. It was a comfort that she could afford as she roamed the Galaxy in exile. "I'm sure that the tea will be lovely. And as for the brandy? You can save it for a special occasion, if you'd like."

With each opening of doors, Kay would tense up only slightly, relaxing only when she seemed sure that no harm was going to come to her. It was an odd trait left over from her time in captivity where every time a door was opened, she was thrown against a wall and beaten.

As Eddak took to the sofa, she followed suit, her eyes drifting to the newly opened doors that allowed in the sea breeze. It reminded her of Rock Point Bay on Commenor. Oceans had a funny way of smelling the same, no matter the planet.

Her attention was then drawn back to her host. "What you have here is more than enough, thank you. It is a very lovely home. You have every right to be proud of it." She folded her hands on her lap and sat back against the sofa. "Now as for business? Commenor can offer you secured trade routes for your goods. Our ports and warehouse districts are some of the best in the Galaxy. We also have a variety of goods to share, our main exports being the brandy and gemstones. But I am also in the process of rebuilding our starship factories. In time Star Destroyers and other vessels will be manufactured. We also house one of the best Universities, covering a variety of fields of study. Does any of that interest you?"

 

[Eddak Manod]

[member="Lady Kay"]


The tea wasn't in the way it was averagely produced and dispensed. It was one of those cheap teas that were transported a lot as a very common commodity. For the non-traditional tea drinkers, it was sometimes served chilled, otherwise served lukewarm but both with a little fizz to their taste. If it were dispensed regularly, it would be from a can, and very fizzy, like soda. Eddak only had the tea warm when he wanted to relax, but when it was cold, it was his pleasure drink. The head butler came around with two glasses, being alerted earlier from the Fashion Advisor that they may want some. On a silver platter, two glasses the size of beer mugs had Moogan Tea in them. "I hope you don't mind the size... this way if you like the taste, you can have more without waiting. Otherwise, it'll be alright. I'll finish your drink." He winked. "And yes," he pulled the brandy up and tilted his head at it, admiring it. "Commenor brandy.... hmm... maybe we should make our own crafted beverage..." Eddak took a moment to appreciate the drink before turning and putting it on the platter. "Put it somewhere to age properly, will you? Thanks." Those who offered to work for King Eddak after his new rise to leadership after he offered dozens of jobs for even those who can't do physical labor anymore came in practically droves. He's tried to learn all their names, but it's been tough. It's like having a massive family and at the reunions you try and remember their names.

Eddak was suddenly taken out of his pleasured manner for a moment, noticing the Queen becoming slightly disturbed by the doors opening, and wanted to reach out, mentally. Not in any mind controlling way or something similar, but to ask if she was alright.... but it didn't seem she was disturbed enough for him to warrant a question, so he refrained. But, being distracted again by her demeanor and business talk. His eyebrows raised and his eyes opened up. A bit of a smirk curling on his lips. When she was finished, he had a big bright smile on his face and he huffed a few times of an attempted laugh. He looked around the room at the butlers, guards, and advisors as he softly pointed at the Queen. His right arm, bent at the elbow, with his finger wagging up and down as he pointed. "This woman, this Queen... she is really something else, is she not, boys?" He stopped wagging his finger as he got comfortable again and looked at her. "You are an amazing woman, Queen Lady Kay. Forgive me, we are of a culture that doesn't look at common women as we do common men. Not that I had anything to do with it, it's just how this fort came up from it's farm plantation roots. Obviously, none of us here look down on you as if you were lesser than I. There may... be some question if I were to... still have my woman.... who would have became a Queen...." he said with a sad tone, picking it back up, "as to how much power she would have. But we don't discriminate. We see what is different in ability. Many women do better at things than a hundred men will ever do, many men do better things than a hundred women will ever do. All we've done is figure out our weaknesses, and made them our strengths. I hope you don't take offense. Haha... alright, what I mean to say, Queen Lady Kay, is you are an exceptional business woman. I wouldn't say I'm surprised that... ahem, a woman is good at business,'" the men around the room laughed as Eddak shook his head. "No, no. I'm surprised by your level of intellectual, proper, and astounding ability." He leaned back, taking a breath.

"No doubt by your ...Universities, yes? We're all just average intelligence here. A bunch of common men." they chuckled again. Whether Queen Lady Kay thought Eddak was being sarcastic or not, Eddak was being brutally honest, making fun of his people and himself. Not demeaning his people. It was their culture. "Eddak comes from the warriors barracks, he may be a little off with manners, miss Lady Kay" the Formal Advisor spoke up. Eddak chuckled as he chugged a bit more tea down, closing his eyes as he enjoyed the taste and the memories it brought him. He took a deep breath as he slowly pulled the mug away. When the moment was over, Eddak opened his eyes and scooted up on the sofa, sitting appropriately and sitting the mug down on a nearby table. "Alrighty then. First of all, no need to enforce security on trade routes. Aside from the local militia, the soldiers I train are efficient. I can handle that, no need for you to pay anything extra. However, I do love getting reliable trade routes. We make fuel here, for the starships ya got, and we got plenty, with no sight of it ever ending. We speculate the entire fort is sitting on a massive vessel of it, if it not more. How about I give you an excellently reliable source of fuel, twice below the regular market price, and you give me reliable trade for anything my people and I need? Like for example, Alfred here needs those uh... textiles and fabrics." he clutched his cape, speaking up, "his reliable merchant did get these in for us, but just today. Which was why we were late," he smirked. "What we don't really have here is metal. We have infinite amounts of stone around the planet, and it's covered in wood. We're building sea vessels to transport cargo cheap and easily, but we just aren't finding metal. So... we need durasteel, turadium, for our own ships. And you know, those Universities don't sound half bad at all... would definitely help us get a little more technology in here. Got any teacher you think would to work for me? I'll handle building it if I get a rough idea."

"The King has a knack for construction, it appears. He designed the Magazine and the Treasury Headquarters." the Fashion Advisor cut in for a moment, praising the King. "Strong and standing tall, they are." Eddak grinned, nodding at Alfred as he drank from his mug again looking over to the Queen. "I would find it exceptionally kind of the Queen if she were to offer gemstones for my soon-to-be crown. I don't need it, but my people say we gotta flash our new economy somehow. And... I know we're still talking business, but it would be a shame to make you travel all the way to Pzob, then all the way to my home, only to have to leave and go all the way back. What would you say to dinner? Nothing personal, Queen Lady Kay, but it would give you an opportunity to try our delicacies."

 

[Kay-Larr]

Kay blinked at the size of the tea mug. It was certainly bigger than she was used to. Plus the tea looked strange as well. It had bubbles. How very odd. She picked up her mug and had a sip, the fizz tickling her nose from the inside. It would take some getting used to. "Very unique flavour..." She just wasn't sure of how to describe it.

[member="Eddak Manod"] 's laughter and almost mockery of her caused Kay to rsise a brow. She glanced at the others of his staff that laughed along side their King. Her attention was brought back to Eddak as he explained the culture here a bit further. So it was one of -those- societies, was it? People were held to their stations and rarely moved from that.

Kay kept quiet as she took another sip of the tea, listening in on the further discussion that was at hand. Barrack living? That certainly made sense. She was used to the type. The deal that Eddak proposed was certainly one that she could live with as well.

"I was not schooled in the University. I learned from a variety of places in the Galaxy. I travelled a lot, spent a number of years as a politician as well as a slave liberator. The Hutts aren't very fond of me for those efforts.

Your offer of fuel is quite generous. I'd be happy to trade a variety of fabrics and metals for your ships, and gemstones for your crown. There are some in the gift basket, but if none are the right size in shape or colour, then we can find ones that do fit your requirements.

And as for dinner? I'd be honoured, thank you." Kay gave an appreciative smile.

 

[Eddak Manod]

[member="Lady Kay"]


Eddak smiled as he pulled his mug over and chugged it, finishing the last drop and looking absolutely blissful. "Aaah," he exhaled, sitting the mug on the platter as he brought his hands together, "Cheers, Queen Lady Kay." He said with a grin and hazy eyes, nodding as he stared on for a moment. "Oh.... no, the gemstones you sent along were quite perfect, the issue is... gems are another rarity for us here, on Pzob. We have some metal, some... bronze, copper, and silver. Mostly currency... nickel and iron. We even have some odd... crystals.... probably of the force-variety, I might add," he continued, taking a breath and looking out the window, not hinted by Lady Kays force sensitivity at all. "We don't really touch them, however. If I were still my much younger youth, I may see use in them. I may see... money or power. But realistically... they are a spark that could create a wildfire. Those who I've heard about that travel the galaxy using their trickery and powers, I don't like it. How they preach and say they are what is best. Whatever color, attire, or impression they try to give."

Eddak slowly took a stand as he nodded to the Formal Advisor, who understood the nod and quickly dispatched themselves, along with Alfred. The guards didn't leave as Eddak took his gaze to Lady Kay. "I am a King, Lady Kay, and I did not give myself the title, nor did I strangle it out of my people. I worked my way up the ladder for many, many years to lead the forces of Galderra proper, and my actions with the old criminal that enslaved my people for years forced the town to come to a meeting and decide what our government is. I kept quiet, as I was but leader of the military; protecting the people, not ruling them. They came to this decision," he turned his whole body to face her, pointing down at the ground. "They appointed me their leader, their rightful journeyman. I don't wear some fancy robe, or wield some misrepresentation of authority to say I am what's best for someone. I--" Eddak stopped, interrupted as one of his troopers had slowly approached and put a hand on his shoulder. Eddak was absolutely famous for going off on tangents, without preparedness or protection, no one would see it coming, and Eddak could go on for hours. It was a horrible quality about him, one he could never see coming nor stop himself. Thankfully, the men he fought beside and shed blood with would always watch over him, just as he, them.

Eddak sighed, and drooped his head as the trooper stepped back. His hand raised and he put pressure as he squeezed the top bridge of his nose, before coming back to his senses. "My apologies, Lady Kay. One of my... less than favorable properties is random nonsense, such that is neither here nor there. Anyway, back to what we were discussing." Eddak slowly approached Lady Kay, but did not gesture her to stand. If she tried, he would shake his head, but not prevent her if she chose to. "If this is to be our arrangement, I must know you would never do anything to compromise I or my people here. I respect you are a Queen. A Queen of Commenor. Pzob.... is mine. I have been granted the ability of discernment. If you have any true intentions, you will speak them. And out of truth, I will respect it and treat it well. If you plan for more, we bring them up." He reached his hand out in a form of a handshake, "If our business meeting is adjourned, then," he smiled as his eyes squinted, peering at Lady Kay, as he unknowingly was actively trying to read her mind, her mind, "my men will show you to a room that I will allow you to use to freshen up and prepare for the meal.... no doubt the journey was long, and we could all nap in a bath, haha!" Being an Umbaran, Eddak had the slight ability to read, influence or control the will of others. But it was not only very subtle, but very weak. And he also didn't even know he was doing it. More than likely, it didn't.... not help him to his position today. It was not, however, infinitely unseen by any eye, there were of course some that could sense it, especially since it wasn't being shadowed or covered.

 

[Kay-Larr]

Kay didn't finish her mug. She had only taken small sips of it to be polite. The drink was far different than what she was used to. What [member="Eddak Manod"] had remarked sbout Force Users was exactly why she had kept her own abilities a secret to most. It was not uncommon, especially by other governments. To reveal what she was capable of would only give her restrictions, not the freedom to do what she'd like.

Then he stood and gave a speech about his rise to power. It didn't differ much from her own, but Eddak seemed to take much more pride in it than she did. Kay gave him a small smile after he apoligized, but then he approached her. She started to get to her feet, yet he shook his head and she felt compelled to remain sitting. It must be the custom of this planet, for the women to do as they were told instead of asserting themselves, or perhaps he was just taking her in from a different angle. She chose to comply, for there might be a feather or even a gray hair that needed to be pulled. Eddak soon gave her a bit of a warning and she chose then to speak up. "If you think that I had come here in order to gain control over your world and it's people, well that would be a wrong assumption. I only seek an alliance that would benefit us both." She had her own plans for the future, but betraying him was not one of them.

Kay set her mug aside before she reached out and took his hand, giving him a soft yet firm shake. His squinted eyes and remark on her needing to go and freshen up caused her to believe that she might of had a spot of dirt on her face. Maybe it was from the carriage ride? She got to her feet. "Thank you. Some time to freshen up would be lovely." Perhaps a nap too. She wasn't sure just yet. Or maybe she'd catch up on one of her history holo-novels. Either way, it would give her some time to think.

 

[Eddak Manod]

[member="Lady Kay"]

Eddak leaned back, shaking his head, "No, not at all! Personally, I doubt you came here today to start a seed to consume my land from within. But we are but a single castle, Queen Lady Kay. The galaxy is vast and unbecoming. You and I both know there are good and bad people, and in a galaxy as large as this... you never know how many bad people there are... or if you were talking to one right now." He grinned, offering to help her to her feet out of respect, if she accepted. If not, Eddak would take no disrespect from it. "Oh, and, I am sorry if that seemed pressuring. You are not dirty, Queen Lady Kay, nor do you have any bad smell or something to you. But the stories I'm told from lovely women just as yourself, as do I, we all love a hot drawn up bath. Oh... right, our technology, haha."

Eddak gestured Jeremy over to his side, "That may be a bit of a problem for you." He finished as he put a hand on Jeremy's shoulder, encouraging him. "Jeremy will show you to one of my guest rooms, and draw a bath for you, if you wish. If you request, we can have a lady assist in this endeavor and replace mister Jeremy... but the problem is that... this is a new structure. Just completed a few weeks ago. The plumbing... that is another question. It is still in the works. However, you may be happy to know our wash rooms are the fanciest and most welcoming on the planet. So, what have you, Queen Lady Kay?"

 

[Kay-Larr]

Kay raised a brow slightly as [member="Eddak Manod"] spoke of either of them being the bad one. It was true. Everyone had their own point of view as to what made someone bad, or what made someone good.

She took his hand and got to her feet, listening as he spoke about the washroom. "I think that a lady would be best. I have to keep my modesty, afterall. I hope that Jeremy isn't offended by that." Kay preferred to be alone when dressing or undressing, but sometimes a helpful hand was required. Today was one of those days.

 

[Eddak Manod]

[member="Lady Kay"]

Eddak leaned back into a deep laughter as the note about modesty, "Oh, no worries, Lady Kay, I'd never let him over step his boundaries," he continued, but in a whisper as he used the back of his other hand to keep it secret from everyone in the room, "although the man really like both sets, if you understand me."

Jeremy shook his head, grinning as he knew exactly what Eddak was saying. Truthfully this room acted more like some boys club instead of a nobleman meeting. They all knew each other and cracked jokes, they were friendly with each other.

"Shall I show you to your room, Queen Lady Kay?" Jeremy asked as he walked over, gesturing Alfred to find a proper lady to assist Lady Kay. He offered his arm if she would accept the escort. Otherwise, he was fine with her just following.

"If you need anything, Queen Lady Kay, do not hesitate, my house is your house," he finished his sentence with a deep bow, the others around the room giving bows of their heads. "I'll have someone come by your room once the meal is ready... Unless you have anything more to say or ask?"

 

[Kay-Larr]

Kay smirked a little as [member="Eddak Manod"] spoke in a secretive manner about Jeremy. Liking both sets or not, she was still going to maintain her dignity. It wasn't that she didn't approve, she had just always been a private person. Being in the spotlight can do that to a person.

She took Jeremy's offered arm. "That would be lovely, thank you." Her gaze turned to Eddak. "Thank you for your hospitality." She smiled and bowed her head to them all.

As they left and walked through the hallways, Kay studied the architecture. She was always an admirer of great construction. "How have the rest of the people taken to the new Monarchy, Jeremy?" She was curious, given her own circumstance.

 

[Eddak Manod]

[member="Lady Kay"]

Eddak gave a wave as his head bowed, giving farewell to Queen Lady Kay as she went on to find her room. Meanwhile, Eddak attended to business as usual, if not in a bit of a rushed manner for the eloquent dinner soon. "Oh, the people of Fort Galderra, Queen Lady Kay?" Jeremy continued, taking a graceful walk at whichever speed the Queen seemed comfortable at, "They made the government, really. With the Mayors aged death, and Eddak finally making the Gamorreans calm down, it was time to make a decision of how the Fort would run. Things were getting expensive for just one man to have to divvy up everything on the spot, even if it was something for the public. Eddak was sitting in the Fort, deciding the next plan of action when the village held a meeting. While the mayor treated them well, he was a little greedy, and Eddak has not taken anything for granted... going out for every battle to fight to Gamorreans face to face when they raid our settlements. They chose Monarchy because that way no one could vote Eddak out and take his spot. The only downfall is if Eddak gets greedy, but the village folk think he's too busy traveling all over Pzob to push the snorters back, haha" Jeremy laughed, continued down the long hall of the estate.

"Everything is settling in nicely, honestly. So far, other than waging war... Eddak has put coin towards new construction in the fort. Wells, pumps, walls, rebuilding homes... even upgrading them so the Gamorreans can't burn them down anymore. He even has plans for something of a universal foster home. Unfortunately, Queen Lady Kay, we do have the very poor here. But Eddak wants to put coin in their pocket so they put the coin back into Galderra. The foster home will help take those off the street. I don't know many of Eddaks plans, but I think he wants Galderra to be the gem of Pzob."

Jeremy stopped as they approached the guest room, freeing Lady Kay from his arm as he opened the door for her. Beyond jeremy laid a luxurious bedroom, and beyond it, with another room with its washing tub, with at least some decent technology - although the water in the tub warmed by fire underneath. "While I... find an assistant for you, is there anything you request, Queen Lady Kay?"

 

[Kay-Larr]

Kay nodded as she listened while they walked. Commenor was ruled under corrupt officials too, though the Elders had done nothing to change it, other than hold an election. She had won that by a landslide and things progressed from there. Yet how she had become Queen was a far darker tale that she kept close to her. Not many knew the truth, though they had their suspicions.

Securing the Monarchy was one way to keep out corruption. But it had a way of maintaining a corrupt regine as well. Kay wondered what category hers fell in.

Kay poked her head inside the doorway first before she stepped further inside. Never could be too careful. The opening of doors was still a fickle thing for her. Her eyes took everything in. It was not much different from her own bedchambers on Commenor, so of course it made her feel more at home. "Some boiled water for tea would be lovely, thank you. And a cup. I have my own leaves."

[member="Eddak Manod"]

 

[Eddak Manod]

[member="Lady Kay"]


Jeremy agreed, "Door open, or closed?" was his final question, whichever she decided, he would agree and turn around to leave. Lady Kady would not see Jeremy again for some time unless she requested of him. In the meanwhile, a little time later a woman would arrive, with a kettle of boiling water and a few cups on an iron platter. If the door was closed, a subtle knocking would be heard from it, otherwise, the lady would greet Lady Kay. "Greetings, Queen Lady Kay! I've been requested to assist you?"


Eddak was busy with Alfred as he was getting ready. Getting out of that draping costume and into something more fitting for an evening dinner. He didn't expect Lady Kay to change, she probably didn't expect to bring a different outfit. They might be able to find something that fits her, but Eddak was only changing because while it was a nice outfit to greet a Queen, it wasn't the best to eat. "Alfred, you've got to warn me next time! I think I nearly tripped in that cape, I don't wear capes. What if I fumbled in front of that Queen? I tell you, the least we would have worried about would be her disappoint in me. How do you think we're fairing? I'm just a new, young king. She's an avid, successful Queen. Not too sure if we're impressing." He said, staring into the mirror as he adjusted the outfit Alfred was fitting on him.

"I'm sorry sir, I tried my best to impress her. Perhaps we could have you train a bit more? Flashing luxury fabric in such a fashion I believed was typically a shower of power and wealth. Should we look like poor villagers to the Queen?" Eddak slowly turned his head to Alfred with a not to happy face. "Alfred, you should watch your tongue, those are sounding an awful lot like spiteful words." Alfred grinned, patting Eddak on the shoulder. "You are a king, Eddak, but you don't know everything, haha."

 

[Kay-Larr]

"Door open please."

Kay walked over to the tub, checking out the different soaps, lotions and oils, smelling them to see which she would like best. No sooner did she make her selection and start filling the tub with hot water, the soon woman arrived. "Yes, thank you. I need help getting out of my gown, please. The clasps in the back are out of my reach, I'm afraid."

After the clasps were undone, Kay sent her on her way so that she may bathe in private. She was very modest, even when around other ladies. Her privacy was something that she cherished.

It was a half hour before she got out of the tub, wrapped herself in a towel and made herself some tea. She cozied herself up in the bed, nestled in the quilted blankets and allowed herself to relax. It had been a productive day and the luxury was well deserved.

A nap ensued after the tea was finished. Kay just couldn't help it. She was just so comfortable that she dozed off. Perhaps she was more tired than she realized.

A gentle nudge from the woman from earlier woke her up. Moments later, Kay was getting dressed and preparing for dinner. She was guided to the dining hall where she looked for [member="Eddak Manod"] and where it was at the table that she should sit. The head of the table wasn't reserved for guests afterall.

 

[Eddak Manod]

[member="Lady Kay"]


The table was long and had ten chairs, two at the ends, and four on both sides. Eddak was still elsewhere getting ready, but close in a nearby room. Something had come up that required his attention at the very last second, but he was dealing with it quickly... although a small amount of distant arguing could be heard, but not very much that it was louder than the soft music that was playing. Lady Kay was actually led to the opposite end of the table, opposite to Eddaks seat. As the lady who assisted Lady Kay approached the table, she pulled out the chair for her, and many of Eddaks Advisors were already waiting. Two seats were still empty as the Advisors stood in respect for the lady to sit down. "Greetings, Queen Lady Kay," a couple Advisors greeted the Queen as others bowed their heads.

There was small amounts of food available very common items in a royal household, and some common, though high-class, items found around the galaxy. But the main dish was obviously not present, as the center piece of the table was empty. "Apologies, Queen Lady Kay, the King shall join us momentarily. It seems something has happened with one of our settlements, I'm sure it will be fine. Probably just more Gamorreans," the older Advisor jested to his fellow Advisors, a small chuckle happened before they sat down, of course waiting for Lady Kay to get comfortable. Eddak would join in a moment, although this would give Lady Kay time to speak with the advisors briefly if she chose to. Many of them handled different duties, and were open to speaking as they spoke in hushed tones to each other so as not to disturb each other.