The Land of Grimney - The Illustrated Adventures of Cora Pearl, aged 12

*Carados steps forward and puts his arm out. He picks up the dagger and lifts it into the sunlight as if admiring the embellished handle.

Nazik, Lady Montrose was allowing me to see this exquisite piece while we were waiting. Isn't it unique and quite beautiful for such a destructive instrument?

* Carados looked directly into Lucia's eyes as he spoke. Carados considered the paralell of weapon to woman.

Thank you Lucia. It comforts me to know the Council is concerned for our safety.

That is all Jenx. I am sure the Council Members are needed elsewhere as I feel their assignment is complete.

*Carados turns to Lucia

You are welcome to return anytime, my dear friends. I will send word to the Council as soon as my troops return from their latest mission with word on Philomena's location. I am sure she will return soon. Without her, I cannot imagine life.

* He looked at Lucia hoping she was appreciating the show of emotion even though he was sure it wasn't "weak" enough.

Oh no Duke, we must stay a little longer. Even if the Princess is found safely there are still some issues that need clearing up. Our assignment is not complete. Please prepare rooms for our stay.

*Lucia has a hushed conversation with the Queen then turns to Carados*

You know, I have developed quite a hunger. Must be the long ride to the castle.

*The Councillor looks at the Duke severely*

You fail to comprehend the seriousness of the situation. Many in the Council think you are a traitor, even those who are neutral are anxious that the heir to the throne is half mermaid... and those who tolerate both her and you cannot accept her choice of husband.

*She glances up at the portrait of the beautiful princess. *

She must marry a prince, not a pauper. A man with power and pure breeding. It would be diplomatic if you put the choice of her husband to the High Council and let them choose.

Oh such a beautiful dagger.

*He hands it back to Lucia.

Jenx, I think we have a hungry and tired guest who would hate to wear out her welcome but I will not turn away such delicious entertainment. Prepare the table for a feast.

*Carados looks at Lucia

Do you really think I care what certain Council Members think of me? Of course it is brutality when I am on their heels and they can feel Hell coming with me. Suspicion is really their fear of being exposed.

And your daughter's marriage? You let a young man, of uncertain heritage and no wealth, dishonour your daughter? To father an illegitimate child with the Princess whilst still under his sworn oath as a knight to love to other than the Queen? Such disgrace.

*She shakes her head*

Can you not reason with your child?

We are welcome enough Kayled.

*Lucia nods*

Carados as always is ignoring the power of the High Council. I suggested that he put the selection of Princess Philomena's husband to the High Council as an act of reconciliation. She needs a suitable match, one that will strengthen the position of the Royal Family.

Of course you are welcome, Kayled. It is a pleasure to be in such good company!

As far as Princess Philomena, she is strong willed and not willing to conform to our royal much less human ways. She will not agree to an arranged marriage. Personally, I would demand loyalty but she has the Dudrassa to run back to and she is more than willing to return to the water.

*Carados pauses. With heaviness he says

Maybe that would be best. She would be safe and no longer a distraction to the Council or the throne.

Perhaps it would be best... but you need an heir Carados. Why not divorce Onedina and take a young human wife? One who will bear you many dutiful human heirs. It would make your life easier and the throne more secure.

The only way Philomena will leave is if I cause her to despise me and my kind. Divorcing Onedina and forcing Philomena's hand by moving her to the castle and arranging a marriage will be the only way. She will not give up Kalvos upon demand.

*Carados knows this will cause his daughter to hate him. His heart wishes there was another way but he knows his daughter is too head strong to reason with. It must be done.

Lucia, I need the divorce papers from Philomena. She brought them to me once but I would not sign. She must be brought to the castle. I will handle the rest.