The presence of the Vaguzian Ambassador is hereby requested by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs in regards to recent comments made by your Minister of Foreign Affairs before the Vaguzian Senate.

The Ministry for Foreign Affairs cannot recall any parallel to the statements made by the Minister of Foreign Affairs in which he raised the prospect of firing upon Rokkenjiman vessels. Both the First Empire and the Kingdom are members of LISA and, to my knowledge, I can't recall a time where treatied allies threatened the use of force against one another as we witnessed on the floor of the Vaguzian Senate. These developments are unprecedented and undermine cohesion, trust and respect within LISA. Furthermore, the position of the Minster of Foreign Affairs to echo talking points of the Slavan regime and paint a treatied ally as a "warmonger" are equally unprecedented and further damage continued faith and trust throughout LISA.

Your prompt attention is appreciated.

Alvin W. Bostaph
Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs

Pyrena Castle
Office of the Imperial Media Liaison

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For Immediate Release
Statement On Conflict In Midaranye

The execution of Dilara Highaghi, combined with the tens of thousands of Slavan Tamorans being held throughout internment camps within Slava Lavosk continues to be a matter of grave concern. Rightfully, when one of your People is subjected to such barbaric treatment one can understand that a nation would respond with anger. As leaders it is our most solemn duty to ensure the safety and security of our Peoples no matter where they may be throughout Mundus, and I reflect upon the time when in Transvaal 15 Rokkenjiman nationals were held on false charges, some of them faced execution and only five returned home.

In those times I approached the international system in place and, through that course of action, five Rokkenjimans returned home from their unjust imprisonment in Transvaal. Obviously, and most unfortunately, that is not the case with Dilara Highaghi, and no actions may bring her back. I certainly recognize the stakes are undoubtedly high with tens of thousands still in camps throughout Slava Lavosk, and that there is justified anger within Tamora. Having spoken with the Emperor in the past I would most certainly implore him to not perpetuate a vicious cycle of violence and retaliation, as yet more blood would be spilled and countless innocent lives lost in the carnage of conflict.

There are many avenues and methods available in response to this situation, many of which should be employed before undertaking the march to war which is so often difficult to reverse once undertaken. While the First Empire understands your anger, we cannot condone a campaign which would see hundreds of thousands, if not millions more, brought into danger by what would be a most vicious conflict on any measure. Most in the world are expecting such a conflict, show them that the Tamoran Empire is capable of pursuing justice without the spectre of deadly war.

The Tri-City Megalopolis has long played a crucial role in Rokkenjiman history, with key events centred around this region from the earliest days of the Rokkenjiman nation. From the port city of Ashinxao, to the capital city of Pyrettania and the economic centre of Exuperia the Megalopolis sees the most diverse population anywhere in the Empire. The 28.6 million people whom call these metropolises home represent a metropolitan economy of र1.081t ($2tn), a reflection of the domestic and foreign business interests which converge upon the region. Today we look at Exuperia, perhaps the most diverse of the cities, and examine what lessons its history may hold for a nation which increasingly looks toward increased diversity throughout.

As the Capital of Azukishima (the name of the nation at that time) prior to 1247 Exuperia was a centre of politics, culture and commerce which grew to a population of 875,000 by the year 1215. It was during this era which the monarchy held its principle residence in the city before formally transferring the capital to its present location, Pyrettania, a move which followed the Ardian occupation. Some historians point to the occupation as the event which changed the course of Exuperian history as many of the Ardians who remained following the resumption of sovereignty settled down in Exuperia where they would go on to contribute to broader Rokkenjiman society. This is best marked by the Thoresen Family, an Ardian family which came to gain equal standing with the noble families of the era.

It would not be until the Imperial Restoration that Exuperia would be recognized as the cultural melting pot of the Rokkenjiman nation when, due to the various foreign projects undertaken by the First Empire its foreign population expanded ever greater. Exuperia to this day boasts a large population of Elpidian, Ndambian, Quinntopian, Tytorian and Bechsteinen peoples, who have called Exuperia home following the demise of their homelands in addition to foreigners who work at the International Trade Centre in one capacity or another. It is thus of little surprise that Exuperia is projected to be the first Rokkenjiman city in which Rokkenjimans will not form the majority of the population by 2027.

While some areas of Rokkenjima have seen difficulties in assimilating with foreign populations, the troubles which have long simmered with the "Wayward Cousins" of Toshindai, Exuperia has taken a different approach, embracing the strengths which many Peoples bring to it. Whereas in Victoria foreigners were often the targets of discrimination, with some businesses designating separate facilities for people of Toshindai ancestry, Exuperia had elected its first mayor of foreign ancestry. It was also in this same year that the Multicultural Museum of Shared History was opened in Exuperia.

"Change is inevitable," said Mayor Janice Thoresen, "Exuperia has long recognized that standing against it is to deny the opportunities it brings with it. We're proud of the city we share and here, whether one is Elpidian, Dartfordian or Rokkenjiman, we're all Exuperians. Through our diverse population we've built Exuperia into the economic heart of the Empire, working in tandem with our sister cities of Ashinxao and Pyrettania to forge a vibrant local economy. Embracing diversity and finding strength in those differences that compliment each other is a model which can be replicated throughout Rokkenjima as our Empire as a whole grows more diverse."


Grand Marshal Cole announced that the Enterprise Strike Group would be holding its position despite escalating threats issued by Slavan President Kravec. "Quite simply, Kravec doesn't tell the IRN where to go or when to return to port, nor does he determine what appropriate Rokkenjiman operations are. The original offer presented to Kravec remains on the table, whatever he decides it will not impact Rokkenjiman support for the Cultists within Royal Seleucid, nor that shown toward friends and allies who are also present. Allow me to also be clear that Rokkenjiman forces will not be in the Gulf as part of this support mission. Only should Kravec be foolish enough to initiate an aggressive encounter with the First Empire will our guns be turned upon his nation in anger."

In a brief release the Empress confirmed the original offer remained on the table. "President Kravec has the offer I relayed to him days ago, that offer still stands today despite essentially being rejected twice now. The Enterprise Strike Group will remain focused upon its present mission which takes it nowhere near Slavan waters. Only at such a time Slava Lavosk fires upon, or otherwise acts in a hostile manner toward Rokkenjiman forces, shall I recognize a state of conflict between our states. I would implore the President to take the opportunity for diplomacy instead of sabotaging it as he appears hell-bent upon doing at this point."

The Empress had time for a few questions, one of which involved Rokkenjiman-Tamoran coordination following the crucifixion of Dilara Haghighi. "Just as Rokkenjima condemned the brutal methods of execution utilized by the Iwi, we have spoken out equally against those employed by Slava Lavosk. Of concern are those remarks made by Slavan officials, especially with the vast numbers of Slavan Tamorans held in camps throughout the nation. I met with the Tamoran Emperor once to gain insight into a nation and culture which perhaps no one outside of Tamora truly understands, in order to forge wise and prudent policy decisions in the future. This did not result in a relationship as termed by the President and is but another tool being utilized to thwart efforts toward diplomacy. Rokkenjiman forces will remain focused upon supporting a campaign Slava Lavosk itself has noted its support for and, perhaps, President Kravec will act upon my offer instead of rejecting it thrice."

Honourable Members of the Imperial Diet, fellow Rokkenjimans, Friends and Allies of the First Empire, honourable delegates viewing from afar, I thank you for joining me here this evening.

Late last month this First Empire held a referendum at the request of her People which called for the abolition of the Office of the Premier and see those powers held by the Office executed by the Crown from this point henceforth. In a vote of 65% tao 35% the Rokkenjiman People have given me not only a mandate but a solemn bond of trust which I will honour each and every day I sit upon the Throne behind me. When I worked with our Government to re-institute the Office of the Premier public trust was increasing in our elected officials and, as I worked with the Honourable Hartnell, we saw more powers granted to the Premier. Sadly, the Rokkenjiman People now believe that course is not the best approach forward for the First Empire, despite the best of our mutual efforts to repair the damage caused by the Republican Era upon our democratic foundation.

With the results of the Referendum now in our hands the onus is now upon the Imperial Diet to execute the wishes of the Rokkenjiman People. In the coming days the Imperial Diet is set to take up legislation prepared by Teikokutō which shall abolish the Office of the Premier, return those powers granted to the Office to the Throne, and establish a new relationship between the Crown and the Imperial Diet. This change does not bring about an end to the Diet as an institution of the Imperial Government, nor does it set this First Empire upon a course of unbridled power being executed from Chrysanthemum Throne. Teikokutō has worked into its legislation to bring into effect the results of the Referendum a relationship between Chrysanthemum Throne and the Imperial Diet a series of checks and balances, restoring the Imperial Government to the arrangement which was prevalent prior to the creation of the Office of the Premier.


Following the passage of this legislation the present session of the Imperial Diet shall be brought to a close, with new elections being called which shall see the People shape the Imperial Diet which shall lead us into this new era. A Speaker of the Commons shall then fulfill the Constitutional requirements of breaking ties as called for of the Premier in the Constitution presently. Furthermore, Chrysanthemum Throne will engage actively with the Imperial Diet, ensuring that it remains an active and important institution of this Imperial Government. Just as Rokkenjima enjoyed democratic principles prior to the Premier, so shall it again in its abolition.

While some, including voices from afar, have noted concerns I can only state that I did not request this Referendum, nor did I desire to see the Office of Premier abolished so shortly after its creation. Since my earliest days upon the Throne I have taken every action I can to restore powers to elected hands as public trust in those hands increased. Should such a time come again I am confident we may have a national discussion to again determine just which course is most appropriate for this First Empire. For now, however, the People have spoken, and it is upon us to honour their voices and ensure their democratic will is carried out.

As the Diet conducts the work required of them so too shall I be working with the staff of Pyrena Castle to ensure a smooth transition takes place. We will be inviting Members of the Diet and those presently working on behalf of the Premier to Pyrena Castle for a series of meetings to provide for ongoing programs and initiatives which will carry forth under the new Government. I trust that the Imperial Diet will take up this legislation and see to its passage in the coming days, after which we shall work together in charting the next chapter of our nation. Thank you all for your time, and Islyna guide us through these times with grace and wisdom.


Following the speech Premier Koizumi confirmed that the Imperial Diet would take up the legislation "and provide for a fair and open vote. I may disagree with the results, however, I will not see the Office of the Premier deny the democratic will of the People as its last actions. I will also look forward to continuing my work on behalf of the Rokkenjiman People once elections have concluded and a new session of the Diet is convoked." Further questions from the Premier were not taken as he returned to the Diet Chambers for that work remaining in its present session.

With a majority of locations reporting results the RBC can confirm that the Referendum to abolish the Premier has passed. In a vote of 65% to 35% the Rokkenjiman electorate voted to abolish the Office of the Premier and formally grant Empress Beatrice full executive powers. An amendment to the Constitution will be minimal, as the Office of the Premier is mentioned just once in the document. Overall Azukishima, Austrana, Kavania, Estvua and Ecskana Prefectures supported the measure, with Arovium Prefecture preferring to keep the Premier 78% to 22%. Popular suppor has remained high for Empress Beatrice who, to most, is the mother of modern Rokkenjima.

Premier Koizumi, who is to formally end his term once the Empress brings the current session of the Diet to a close, noted his disappointment in the results. "Empress Beatrice spoke so often of empowering Rokkenjiman democracy, ceding more power to her elected officials as the public trust was restored. She has yet another opportunity to ensure those gains are not lost: deny any manner of Assent and assure the People that our system, while not perfect, is making great strides and is worth preserving. We cannot allow the crimes of the Republicans to stain those hard working men and women of today's Imperial Government. Your Imperial Highness, I implore you to give full weight and consideration to my proposal."

Pyrena Castle has informed us that the Empress would be making a speech regarding the results, as well as announcing major policy initiatives. Questions as to whether the Empress would refuse to honour the results of the Referendum as proposed by the Premier were quickly struck down. "The Rokkenjiman People have spoken, granting the Empress a mandate which the Premier has been incapable of building himself. The Empress will not rule the democratic voices of the Rokkenjiman People invalid and will act on the mandate She has been granted to work on their behalf."

"Masaki Satsuki, Chief International Affairs Correspondent, RBC. As Rokkenjimans prepare to head to the polls to decide whether or not to abolish the Office of Premier what are your thoughts of this apparent retreat of elected power in the First Empire? Does the Holy Empire have plans on hand to work with a yet greater empowered Chrysanthemum Throne should the referendum return that result?"

The First Empire wholly condemns the acts of terrorism which we have seen unleashed and shares the concerns expressed by Cascadia regarding the lack of any meaningful response by Nya Åland. Violence perpetuated against the followers of any faith, be they Cultists, Christians or as in the past Rosari, are crimes against the whole of humanity, demanding a unified response of the international community to see such violence addressed swiftly and those at greatest risk removed from danger efficiently.

In light of these developments I have directed the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy to make available to Cascadia two refueling and supply vessels, while also opening those Rokkenjiman facilities along their route should they meet a need for greater provisions beyond the capabilities of our vessels. Furthermore, the Blue Star Line has complied with a request from the Crown to make available the United States to assist with operations to evacuate Cascadian and, naturally, Rokkenjiman nationals from Nya Åland. United States will be available in her converted form, allowing for up to 15,000 souls to be transported should the need arise. Nations with nationals within Nya Åland who wish to utilize this space may inform the Imperial Diplomatic Corps who will then make the necessary arrangements.

In this pursuit the First Empire also offers its full and unconditional support to Krimeon as a party to these operations. In addition to resupply vessels the United States shall be escorted by the Mizuchi Class Destroyers Apalala and Kraken, as well as the Amphibious Assault Ship Tiger. These vessels shall coordinate fully with the Cascadian and Krimeon operations presently underway.

The First Empire joins the calls of Krimeon for Nya Åland to unequivocally disavow these wicked acts of violence, restore peace and order, and ensure the safety of all within her borders. If incapable of the later it is thus the responsibility of Nya Åland to ensure efforts to evacuate those peoples in jeopardy proceed unhindered.

Should either Cascadia or Krimeon wish to coordinate more personally these operations I believe both already have my contact information available to them.

Respectfully yours;


Empress of Rokkenjima
Princess of Littlebrook

Joining Ælirn in a more private setting Beatrice took a seat and took the opportunity to have a drink. "If I have learned anything it is that kindness, compassion and that warmth which comes from the heart are often the best we have to offer others, especially when it comes to shared experiences. We're all in this together, and I think if more people, especially leaders around Mundus, understood that the world we live in would be a better place. Perhaps, in the long arc, that's something we can work on together," she continued with a smile of her own.

"So as I often ask, what does Xæth wish to see in a relationship with Rokkenjima? I already believe there are several areas which we could see natural cooperation, our cultures have similarities as in Rokkenjima the matriarch is the head of the family and, if Xæth wishes to set herself upon a more sustainable future, the Rokkenjiman economy is geared toward renewables and sustainable energy. I also believe, having seen Xæth for myself, that we could certainly expand Blue Star Line operations with a regional hub, and a regular liner service between our nations. With Xæth's position as a guardian of the Matilda Channels, which are crucial not only to Rokkenjiman liner operations but our trade as well, we could certainly develop together a program which sees great opportunities for mutual economic opportunity."

Beatrice paused, "I do apologize, I didn't me an to ramble after asking you the question. I'm pleased, as for the first time in quite a while I'm sat across from a leader in whom I can see great potential, one who I can relate to, and a nation which shares much in common with my own First Empire. With that being said, I'll cease my rambling." It had been some time since Beatrice felt such energy in such a meeting and, despite her best efforts, it showed fully. Truly she felt as if she were ten years younger, with all the excitement and promise of Mundus before her and Ælirn.

"Visiting foreign nations is always a pleasure, especially when one has the opportunity to forge new ties," Beatrice replied warmly. "I've never been fond of sending diplomats in my stead, although at times it probably could have saved me some trouble. There was a time we had madmen threatening Mundus with annihilation via biological weapons, while at the same time a warhead in low-earth orbit was on stand-by should they pull the trigger first. Not to mention the assassination of a diplomat when I had invited Mundus to Pyrena Castle, although I must say I made the best of it."

"Needless to say I appreciate your hospitality, I wouldn't wish to miss the opportunity to be here for your enthronement. I believe that a personal touch, often lost when dealing with the republics and their carousel of representatives if we're to be honest, goes quite a long way, don't you think?" she asked, curious to gauge her response.

Beatrice took a few moments on her tablet, connecting her with Pyrena Castle via secure ICON access. "A building permit is being prepared as we speak and will be available to your father at his earliest convenience. As for your brother, I've instructed Grand Marshal Cole to set forth the required paperwork which shall be dispatched prior to my return to Rokkenjima. In the mean time I may provide electronic receipts to an email account of your choosing which bear my Seal and enjoy legal standing until paper copies are in your hands," she said with a smile. "If there are any finer details you would wish set into motion I'll leave my personal contact information with you."

A YourVoice.rk petition to "increase the efficiency of the Imperial Government through the abolition of the Office of Premier" has reached the 2%(3,244,942)  threshold for the measure to be put to a national vote. Should the measure pass the Imperial Diet would remain and would continue to perform legislative duties and perform "only those checks necessary" on the Monarchy in the conduct of Imperial Governance.  The Imperial Government has thirty days to put the measure to vote.

The measure will place before the Rokkenjiman electorate the following question:

Should the Office of Premier be abolished and all functions and responsibilities be assumed by the Crown?

Yes
No

The Office of the Premier stated its "surprise and shock that the measure has received this level of support. The Premier of Rokkenjima works to bring a progressive domestic agenda on behalf of the Rokkenjiman People, seeing their voices elevated in Pyrettania. This is an unfortunate development upon which we will consult with the Diet and Pyrena Castle. Regardless of the circumstances we have thirty days to put the measure to vote, after which we shall see what decision is ultimately made."

Pyrena Castle confirmed the referendum would be hosted within 30 days. "A measure which meets the threshold for national consideration on YourVoice.rk must advance to a national referendum within 30 days, according to Imperial Law. Chrysanthemum Throne takes no position on any such referendum brought before the nation, as this is a choice the People of Rokkenjima must make in an untainted manner. Whatever the results of the referendum should be the Empress shall work with the whole of the Imperial Government to forge the best path forward for the Rokkenjiman People and Nation."

"Quite the gathering we have, yes?" Beatrice said upon the union of the groups. "Not to distract from schedule, it's something I always ask when discussing the diplomatic future between the First Empire and a foreign part, what is it which the Conglomerate seeks in a relationship with the First Empire? Knowing this allows me some insight, as well as knowing what to expect from a potential partner." Beatrice paused, continuing to take in new sights, before they would turn their attentions to the broader group.

"For my part, Rokkenjima held an affinity for Heyra," she continued. "As a refuge for many Rokkenjimans fleeing the Second Patriotic War this land has become known to us as the 'hokubu no hinansho', or the shelter in the North. Forging strong ties to a nation which boasts a number of Rokkenjimans who live here to this day is important for many reasons, as well as the matter of relaying my personal gratitude for the hospitality of your People. These circumstances have brought us together and forged between us a bond which deserves formal standing, not just the warm feelings which have been fostered over the years."

Noticing Relkin stir a bit Beatrice giggled, "Yes, the business interests, worry not my sentimental reflection is behind us Albert. Expanding economic opportunities between the First Empire and the Conglomerate is most important, enriching both of our respective markets. I'll leave Mr. Relkin to relay his desires, as well as negotiating the finer details of any arrangements between the Conglomerate and Abstergo."

Fellow Rokkenjimans, Friends and Allies of the First Empire, honourable delegates from afar, I thank you for joining me here this morning.

In more ways than one we have seen before us an era lost due to issues both within and outside of our control. One of the most notable casualties of this has been the long-term viability of the Commonwealth Treaty Organisation, an institution which was established through great effort and determination to ensure a future less hostile, less uncertain and more equitable for all Peoples. In this new year I have reviewed several areas upon which this First Empire should refocus and reform and one such area which came up often was the Commonwealth. Today, I present to you those concerns and solutions to those issues before us in preserving Mundus from sliding backwards into an era of chaos, instability and diminished hope.

Prior to the establishment of the Commonwealth Mundus was a much different environment, one ruled at the whim of unilateral actions, the inescapable influence of military alliances, and the polarization between camps of nations aligned around various causes and paths. In establishing the Commonwealth the international community looked to ensure a common hall for international diplomacy, institutions which would ensure a safer and more peaceful Mundus, and organs which would see the community of nations work to improve standards of living and assist those nations and peoples in need. The world which existed prior to the Commonwealth was dangerous and brought us nearly to the brink of an armed exchange many today would find unfathomable; indeed, we saw the very real prospect of an exchange of weapons of mass destruction which most certainly would have scarred Mundus so deeply we'd find it impossible to recognize, not to speak of the loss of life which would have been most tragic.

Our contemporary state of international affairs brings fear to the forefront that we have forgotten the lessons of history, with unilateral actions going unchecked, rampant terrorism and the prospect for armed conflict between the states, and adherence to international accords eroding before our very eyes. The nations of Mundus themselves sit aligned in various camps, whilst at the highest levels we cannot even agree on a common hall for international diplomacy, as evidenced by the existence of both the CTO and the CMA. While certainly differences do exist in this era when compared to the past the parallels are hard to ignore and, left unchecked, do not bode well for the vision pursued so strenuously not even a few short years ago.

To say that Rokkenjima had lost sight of its international obligations and responsibilities is fair and, in recognition of these shortcomings, I have issued official direction to my Government to mobilize on all fronts to strengthen those international institutions and accords so that the common heritage of Mundus may, once again, be handed to the next generation in a condition better than which we ourselves found it. To further these causes and to see this new year truly mark a new page for the Commonwealth Treaty Organisation I hereby proclaim the First Empire's commitment to the following:

• Half of those funds allotted for the International Development Grant Program (र2.7bn, $5bn) shall be directed to the budget of the Commonwealth Treaty Organisation. This shall stand independent of Rokkenjima's annual funds committed to the upkeep and maintenance of the Palace of Nations complex.
• Efforts shall be undertaken to see that all key positions of the Commonwealth are staffed before the end of this first month of 2019 while ensuring each department and organ of the Commonwealth is supported by a full complement of staff required to meet their obligations.
• An open and ongoing dialogue will be provided for present and prospective member states of the Commonwealth in which present and future concerns may be addressed while improving the nimbleness and efficiency of the Commonwealth's capacity to act to any situation which may face the community of nations.
• Restoration of a key cornerstone of the Commonwealth, that being an institution of international diplomacy without bias nor hostility toward any nation, through outreach efforts.

To be certain Rokkenjima shall not hold all the answers, however, this First Empire shall work with the membership of the Commonwealth to set the Commonwealth back upon the correct path. Rokkenjima shall make greater financial, material and staffing contributions to the Commonwealth and shall consult with all members to address any areas of deficiency throughout the Organisation. Furthermore, we shall consult to see that decisions may be made more swiftly and efficiently. Although the work before us may seem daunting I have always held faith in the ability and the capacity for success that all nations hold when faced with such challenges. It took us some time to reach this point, however, through our combined efforts we shall see our way from it, leaving in place an international system that shall stand the most challenging tests of time.

May we begin our work swiftly, conduct it to the best of our abilities, and restore to the Commonwealth its namesake; a commonwealth for all Peoples and all Nations safeguarding the shared heritage for generations to come. Thank you for your time.

It is my utmost pleasure to receive your invitation and reply with my acceptance. The First Empire has long viewed true friendship with her international neighbours as most important, thus being on hand to welcome your nation back as it exits a period of unrest is as good a start as any. I look forward to this opportunity, getting to know you and your nation, identifying any areas in which the First Empire could be of assistance, and laying together a foundation for a lasting friendship and partnership between our nations.

Respectfully;


Empress of Rokkenjima
Princess of Littlebrook

“Well, the enthronement has gone well… Duke Leopold was it? I always have found the palaces of other leaders quite fascinating. Mine is just an abandoned factory that I pretend is a palace! Though I do plan to renovate my palace a bit if the Brassicus family expands.” he looked at Alys while saying the last sentence. "I don’t think you need to worry about Alys. She’s a lovely lass as I see it now and I think that she has bettered herself." Brassicus stopped for a second to cough. “Yes, you would be right about the port. My son, Peterhoff was the one who negotiated all that. I hope that Cabbagelandiet can become a modern nation in a short amount of time.” Brassicus noticed Beatrice passing by and excused himself out.

"Alys my dear, I'll be back shortly." said Brassicus, leaving Alys' arm and approaching Beatrice, bowing down to the Rokkenjiman Empress and taking a deep breath before talking. "I've received your letter and I've personally come... to say sorry, my lady. I don't know what got over me that day, but I hope you accept my apologies."

Beatrice had remained content to take an opportunity to call Alex and keep him updated with the ongoings in his absence, although the approach of Brassicus caught her attention. She listened as he offered his apology, taking him by the shoulders and guiding him up from his bow. "You've no reason to bow before me, as I said before all are worthy of a second chance," she said with a smile. "We won't speak of that day again, but shall instead look to those things we may accomplish in the future. Should you wish to take the opportunity to talk I believe I have a moment, that is if you're not too occupied?"