Family matters (Clysperis and Tamora)

[Markus]

Once Beketaten's convoy entered the imperial palace’s courtyard, the palace doors opened and Abbas appeared so that he would be greeting Beketaten himself, a rare public gesture of courtesy.
Once he greeted Beketaten, he invited her into the palace and escorted her into one of the large dining rooms. The table was already full with various local dishes and the staff was careful to attend to both Beketaten's and Abbas's every need.

Abbas did not jump straight to the topic and instead asked Beketaten about the state of her kingdom and especially the traitors plotting in the dark. He was concerned about the wellbeing of Beketaten as he believed that those traitors could not be happy with how Beketaten was shaping things up.

Once the introductory conversation was done and both of them had the chance to try some of the local cuisine, Abbas approached the main subject:

"I must offer my apologies for Naser. His mission was supposed to be an economic one and yet he seemed to have forgotten that and instead has gone where he knew full well that wasn't appropriate. This is why I have asked him to return home and will stay here. "

"His behavior was not appropriate for a prince and I assure you as head of the family that I will remind him of that. I hope we can put this matter behind us as a youthful mistake. "


Abbas finished his part. He had presented things in such a way as to allow Beketaten to end the relationship without any effort on her part and proceed as nothing had happened. He wasn't sure just how deep were Beketaten 's feelings for his son and didn't trust Naser's judgement on the matter.

[Beatrice]

"Ah yes, the plotters," Beketaten said with a sigh. "They've been quiet as of late, I suspect they've been demoralized to an extent following the attack on our Manist brother and sister and the Mosque. No doubt you've noticed the delay in the execution of the beasts, yes?" she paused for a moment. "I've figured so long as they're providing new information they've some worth alive, although as soon as we've extracted every piece of useful information from them I've a few crocodiles who would appreciate a taste of fresh meat."

"While they've no knowledge of future plots that they are sharing I know that they were paid for their deeds, and had various promises made in the case they were apprehended. Although I doubt those who drove them to these actions can do much for them, I doubt they hold any manner of sway with the gods. Thankfully those they attacked are recovering well, one has already been released from the hospital whilst the other is nearing that point as the days pass. The care our nation has shown, and the many Manists declaring their faith with strong voices in public, shows me that if our enemies push too strongly, I've an army of hearts and minds that will devour them wholly."

As the topic of Naser came up Beketaten nodded. "While I can see where actions strayed from his stated mission and in some ways may very well have been reckless, I think he is deserving of recognition for ensuring his conduct remained that of a gentleman under the circumstances. If we look back to my time in university I could go nowhere without my security detail, I slept with two guards at my door because some deviant may have thought himself lucky to make his way into my dorm. These cultures foreign to ours seem to breed deviance as it if it were something in the water. The Prince and I, while showing clear and recognizable interest in each other, were always mindful of our convictions to our faiths, reputation and honour. I do miss our conversations," she said looking away from Abbas momentarily with a smile, "I trust he has been well?"

[Markus]

“So the plotters thought they could use religion to make Clysperi turn on each other and maybe even cause friction between outside Clysperi borders.  Makes sense from their perspective. Clysperi are still recovering from the soviet calamity and perhaps some feel that a kingdom united under one sovereign and following on religion is something of a must if the kingdom is to overcome the challenges ahead. Appealing to those sentiments was a good plan. Thank God it didn’t work. “

Abbas nodded in agreement when Beketaten mentioned the decadence she experience during her time outside MidAranye. He was also visibly pleased when she mentioned that Naser had acted according to the standards of his faith.

“He is well. He wants to see you again. In fact he wants more than that, he wants to continue the relationship with you. I have argued against it. There is no going forward with the relationship without assuming marriage and that would be a mistake for the both of you. Not only do you come from different faiths but also marriages have to be careful thought out and strategized. I believe you understand me when I say that choosing a husband in your case could be a great opportunity to build new relations with other countries or purse other goals. Marriage is not just about what individuals desire but also what is best for the family and our cases the entire kingdoms.   
These are the reasons I am against this relationship going forward. “

[Beatrice]

"I understand it won't be easy but, is it not said that those pursuits which are most rewarding and of the greatest value are those which are the most challenging?" she asked. "I recognize the complications and I shall meet them, I know the difficulties which may be present, but I do not fear them. I've already seen that my Vizier went to great lengths to see that, should I ever wed Prince Naser, that he would be in a position to be King of Clysperis," she paused. "I've also an announcement I wished to propose to you that, at least in Clysperis, would remove a great many obstacles which would otherwise exist, if you would be interested in considering them of course."

"And yes, the choice of husband could bring new opportunities, advance some goals, but," she again paused, "something brought Clysperis and Tamora together, seemingly against the odds, and today we are moving forward in several ventures and opportunities. We recognize our differences but we don't chastise each other for them, we accept them, and build from what we do share; this strength in our relations is not a common one to find elsewhere. How many other nations, or rulers, share the level of trust you and I do at this moment?"

"I respect your position, and I would ask only if I haven't proven myself to you, laid concerns to rest to your satisfaction, that I be granted the opportunity to do so. What is best for Clysperis right now, is strengthening the bonds between us, it's a blessing that a certain Prince so happens to give flight to a thousand butterflies in my stomach, and brings with him an air of calm that makes the path before me seem so much more clear. Whatever you need of me to put your concerns to rest, I await your instruction."

[Markus]

“While I admire your determination and I appreciate that you have made plans with the Vizier, I have to ask if you also made plans in the event you do wed and later down the road things between you change. What will you do then? Unmake him king? Because a marriage is permanent while feelings are not. Should whatever strong feelings are between you change for the worse then it could also negatively affect the bonds between our nations. You have to consider that. And also consider that there is no way to undue a marriage, there will be no second chances or ways to circumvent it.”

“I say these things to you not because I do not trust you but because I want the bonds between our nations to continue to grow, a marriage while it can cement those bonds and build further on them can also break them if the parties involved are not willing to sacrifice and make compromises. “ 
 
“Yes, tell me announcement you wish to propose, the more details I know the better it is.”

[Beatrice]

"When I make a commitment I remain true to it. All relationships change over time, that between parent and child, friendships, our romances; nothing remains static lest it becomes stagnant. If I were to wed Prince Naser and accept him now, but reject him in times of adversity or run at the first sight of unpleasantness I would not seek your consideration, as it would disrespect not only myself and the Prince, but the bonds between our nations itself. Ideally as our relationship ages we'd both grow with it, and adapt to each chapter, whatever should come however I am not one to run or hide."

"I have been working with the Congregation, laying the ground work as I said earlier. As the Living Horus and High Priest of every Temple I have perhaps more room to work with than others in my position, faced with such difficulties as a difference in faith. Manism shall be elevated within both the Kingdom and the Congregation, recognized as a 'peer faith' which is compatible in preserving and upholding Ma'at. This should be enough to silence any critics of my choice in a foreign husband of a faith other than that of the Congregation, while granting him the 'blessing' of the gods to reign as King, not upon matters specific to the Congregation of course, but as a King of Clysperis with indisputable sanction."

"You see," Beketaten paused, "I have put great thought and effort forward already, I am confident and serious, and if I wished to back away I would have done so long ago."

[Markus]

“I see you have put thought in this indeed. And with that move you would also please many in our Church because such an elevation of our faith will be well received in Tamora and across the Manist communities in MidAranye and beyond. I have to say I am a bit surprised of how deep of a connection you managed to establish with the Tamoran people and many of our faith. For someone outside the faith and the country you seem to understand very well what Tamorans think and like. If there was anyone else I don’t think I would have any confidence that could make something like the marriage with my son work. “

“Since you are determined to go forward, I also want to explain what this marriage will mean for us sovereigns and for our countries so we can both make an informed decision. Should we agree to a marriage, we become more than just allies, we become family. On our part, we will be duty bound to come to your help and support you for the throne of Clysperis against any who would wish to take it away from you, whether they are domestic threats or foreign ones. As you can understand that is a big commitment on our part and one that requires we share at bit of our plans and our concerns.

First, on the matter of the foreign powers meddling in MidAranye; we are both on the same page here in wishing to see no more foreign interventions in MidAranye. You have publicly chastised foreign capitals for interfering in the region’s affairs, for using the international system to their advantage and pushing their agenda on us. Many in my government think that is not enough and as long as we give them the opportunity to interfere they will continue to interfere. It is for this reason that I plan to soon announce publicly a Tamoran policy, doctrine if you will, for MidAranye. Any government interference by non Midranye countries in the internal affairs of any of the region’s countries will be considered an aggressive act against Djerb and any military intervention in Midranye by non Midaranye countries will be considered a hostile act against Tamora. I see no point in asking foreign powers to stop their meddling in our affairs, they will continue to interfere as long as there is room for them to do so. Once that doctrine is made public, Tamora will actively resist any inference in Midaranye internal affairs.  The Imperial Army has no problem in enforcing that doctrine over most of MidAranye. Clysperis however does not share a border and putting it under Djerb’s umbrella is more complicated, that is why I want to station in Clysperis a few squadrons of fighters and some s400 . That way the whole Mundus will know that the entire Midaranye region is covered and the powers like CNN will begin to understand that MidAranye is no longer in their sphere of influence. 

I am telling you about our plans now before even Ipsus and Darmaga know so you are aware before committing to irreversibly strengthening our bonds . Tamora will proceed with this plan no matter the opposition we way encounter even among our close neighbors and friends because the current status quo is one that in deeply disadvantages us.

Second, there is the issue of antagonizing other countries. We have many enemies, Beketaten. I don’t see why we need to make their job easier by antagonizing them all so that they put aside any concerns they might have between them and band against us. Take for example Achkaerin, a nation I have no love for. There is little to gain by antagonizing and putting them in the same pot with the Helusians and especially CNN. They haven’t sanctioned Tamora so why put the guns on them? So far they have been about as quiet as Vaguzia so I see no point in burning bridges or not leaving any room for talks with them in the future. I would like you to be more restrained with them in your criticism just as you are with Rokkenjima. Should we become family Beketaten, when you will be criticizing foreign powers, and knowing you that will happen often, you will also be doing it indirectly in Tamora’s name whether you like it or not. And as family, we would never delimit ourselves from you and we will always be there to have your back no matter. That’s why it’s important to be on the same page. I am not asking you to like them, as you can see I haven’t done anything to appease them or make friends with them. However, outside the Helusians and the CNN, I don’t think there is any point in criticizing them by name or do it so openly. We should focus on the Helusians and CNN since they are the biggest military threat and have troops in MidAranye. They are strong enough without adding them more allies by hurting other sovereign’s egos. In Tamora many in our Church speak forcefully just as you against the foreign powers but we as rulers of countries cannot do it so easily. I understand that you are also the head of your church and more than that in fact for them but you are also a sovereign, so you also have to consider the limitations that implies.
”

“Now tell me, what do you expect from Tamora if we are to become family?”

[Beatrice]

"Clysperis has been blessed to have Manists living amongst us for some time," Beketaten replied with a smile. "For so long my father spoke of Tamora and Tamorans, so perhaps it is as a second nature to me to be drawn to your nation and people. The bond we share is certainly not taken for granted, either."

"Your doctrine for Midaranye is most inspiring, one I am happy to support in any way I can, and as such stationing Tamoran forces and assets is of no issue. There is a belief throughout Mundus that certain powers may act as they wish without anyone saying, or doing, anything to stop them; the perpetration of that belief allows the current status quo to continue unchallenged. Should Midaranye, under this Tamoran initiative, show that bucking the trend is indeed possible and capable of success, I do believe we may be able to resolve a great many of the problems facing our Peoples."

"I've also no issue in monitoring that which I say, however, the Holy Empire is an entity we must remain vigilant upon. They share close ties with the heart of the Helusians, have no issue in interfering in the affairs of states far beyond their immediate region and share a great share of the responsibility for the weaponization of international treaties and agreements. Should they give reason for a voice to be raised against their position, in such a case I could not remain silent, and I believe such a case would be clearly recognized by the Empire. Until such a time, we'll wait to see what the product of their conduct is in the foreseeable future."

"As for what I expect," Beketaten paused, "I've nothing to ask of the Tamoran Empire; you've already bled for my People, you stand by us to this day despite the difficulties this presents with Abydos, I don't feel there is anything more we could ask to be honest. I believe our nations and Peoples have already established clear bonds, so much so that for me to propose anything further would be inappropriate. If I must expect something, however, it would be your unquestioned acceptance of the receipt of Clysperi grattitude, for Tamora's actions and loyalty have surely been noted and will be due for recognition. Continue to stand by our side, and Clysperis shall continue to stand by yours, that's my expectation."

[Markus]

“I am pleased that we are on the same page on this, Beketaten. I will leave the details about the forces and assets for our staffs to deal with and present us a draft in the coming days. “

“I agree with you that Achkaerin is not a positive force and that they have weaponezed international treaties as you so well put it. They are after all famous throughout Tamora for trying to imprison a Rokkenjiman man who freed Tamoran slaves. Again, I am not saying that we should like them or others like them but to focus our guns on the biggest threats.”

“Your words please me and honor me, Beketaten. I realize that weboth have a responsibility to main that great bond between our nations. “

“I think that you marriage with my son would honor our history. Though you are not of our faith you understand us better than anyone expected.

Under normal circumstances now would be the time when I and the head of your family of the bride price would negotiate how much I would have to pay. I don’t think we can do that” he said laughing.

“But we need to negotiate the other aspects. The first is the difference of faith, Manist men are allowed to marry non Manist women with the consent of the Church. Your excellent track record in relation with our Church and your promise to elevate Manism in Clysperis to that of a “peer faith” has made it so that when Naser will make the request it will be granted provided we settle the details.

The first of these details will be the religion of the children. Have you given any thought about that?

The second issue is the marriage ceremony, since our two faiths do not recognize each other marriages, Naser will remain unmarried unless the marriage also takes place in a Manist temple.
Now I propose that after the marriage in your temple which will be the main ceremony, the public one with all the guests and so on,  that soon afterwards, in a private setting, a Manist marriage take place between the two. I think that will please all sides.   
     
Lastly, there is the matter of name. Now this is not a religious requirement but a one of custom and tradition. Would you be willing to take on the Safavid name?”

“Please also tell me if there are any religious requirements of your faith that I should know about so that we can discuss them.”

[Beatrice]

"Most excellent. It's perhaps of little surprise that we should be aligned on this issue, for too long we've seen countless slights against Midaranye nations. I'm tired of our people and governments being lectured by the likes of Seaforth, a nation which itself was born of the theft of the land upon which it is built. Who are they to walk into our home and tell us how our affairs should be conducted? It has to come to an end, and I'll happily support Tamora in this venture, as well as offering whatever support I can to a fellow Midaranye state regardless of where we may stand otherwise. In this sphere, we must put Midaranye first, and supporting each other is the best possible course forward to show the wolves and vipers who surround us that they can no longer act with impunity in Midaranye."

"My father was wise to send me to a foreign university, he was even wiser to teach me about our neighbours, especially Tamora. Perhaps if I were not born upon the path predestined for me by the gods I would have, in some alternate timeline, been a devout Manist? It's a scenario which wouldn't have disappointed me, though I am happy for the path that's been laid at my feet. It's led me to so many things I could never have imagined and, of course, that is the path which intersected with that of Prince Naser. Balance and order, key principles of my faith and Clysperi society, have their way of ensuring that they prevail. So, I will always be humbled to be a friend of every Manist, Clysperi or otherwise."

Beketaten paused for a moment, "For the religion of our children, I believe I shall need to ensure at least one child is one of the Congregation; a Clysperi Pharaoh is both a leader of the nation, one of the faith, and is a god himself. While elevating Manism in such a fashion tackles many hurdles, this is one we would not be able to overcome. As this deals with matters of family as well, I have had questions as to whether the Manist faith has any issue with those who are not Manists attending their services; I know that attending services with his family would be important to Naser, thus why I ask. As a peer faith my People would not likely bat an eye, but I would not wish to offend Manist principles and practices."

"I second your proposal in regards to handling the marriage itself, in respect to both of our cultures and faiths."

"A surname is a more interesting matter," Beketaten continued. "Nobles in Clysperis, as well as those of my bloodline, are not known to have surnames: each part of my name has meaning, it's symbolic. We have time yet however to figure something out, and I'd be willing to discuss this issue with you more in-depth. My family has always respected the Safavid name and held it in high regard, thus personally, I would have no quarrel."

"Now in times past the majority of my predecessors were men who, for political reasons, would see themselves married to several women, foreign princesses, etc. Presenting a gift to the bride's father is seen as important, I feel that perhaps we could honour my father in some manner as he is no longer with us, in some manner as an appropriate alternative. During the marriage ceremony husband and wife are seen to offer gifts to the gods; in Naser's case I would not impose upon him anything which would contradict Manist teachings and principles, and it is here where elevating the Manist faith offers us yet greater breathing room."

"A Clysperi marriage which results in childbirth is seen as successful, and in the past it would be the duty of a wife to give birth to as many children as possible as the death rate amongst Clysperi was quite high, while another duty includes taking care of the children and the home. In some ways, even under my own culture, this marriage will be most interesting. On one hand I am a Pharaoh, on the other, there are expectations and roles expected of women in a marriage. A marriage also sees both husband and wife as equals, with Clysperi art depicting women as supporting, or encompassing, their husband."

"Not to digress, but earlier you spoke to me of plans before others in our region, even before Ipsus. As you know King Heydar has viewed my words in a lens which presents a view which is wholly inaccurate. Should the opportunity present itself, I would be humbled if you could see Clysperis and Royal Seleucid under the same roof, to ensure that misunderstandings between us aren't so easy in the future. Is this something you would consider?"

[Markus]

“I am very pleased we are on the same page regarding MidAranye. The most important thing now is to show the other powers that the time where they could interfere unhindered is gone. “

“Your father was both wise and a man of vision. I think that if it wasn’t for him not only wouldn’t our two nations be so close but perhaps even your relationship with Naser wouldn’t not have happened because you wouldn’t not have understood so well our faith and our people. I think it is only fitting that we honor his legacy with a proper gift. I will see to it that when the time comes we would have made the arrangements necessary to properly honor his legacy; we will keep in touch on this and discuss it further later on. “

“I think then that we have the major details settled and while I am sure other issues will come up in the future, with such willingness to find common I am sure we will find a solution. I will instruct Naser to resume his position as head of the Tamoran economic delegation in Clysperis. But before that, you two will need to find time to inform the public of your intentions. For my part, I will talk to the Church and settle things there.  I am also becoming more hopeful that the two of you will manage to overcome the difficulties which you will inevitable face. While I would not attempt to underestimate the differences between our cultures I will also not overestimate them as we have much in common. Just as you yourself mentioned, we all understand the importance of having children and providing them with good role models for mother and father, of teaching them faith and that includes, as you yourself mentioned, to have at least one child belonging to your faith. And since you asked me, we welcome everyone to attend our religious service regardless of their religion.”

“Of course I would do my best to see Clysperis and Royal Seleucid under the same roof. I wouldn’t worry much about the misunderstanding as it is nothing in my opinion and this is why I never mentioned it. As MidAranye nations we have much in common but we have sometimes also different interests. I think perhaps that might be a reason for that misunderstanding. I will let you know as soon as I have something.”

“I would also like to ask you if you have watched the developments in the Slavic Federation? The nation has emerged from isolation at a critical time, it is about to see a change in its political landscape where the citizens of Tamoran background and other minorities including Clysperi have a majority and thus there is a great chance they will vote in a new government, one that will be more closely aligned to our values. As the leader of your religion you hold a lot sway over those of your faith even when they are living outside your borders. So any help you might want to give to the opposition coalition there is appreciated and I am sure they will remain indebted to you. “
   

[Beatrice]

"Agreed, although it is a sad reflection on the present world that we must do such a thing. For all the talk of the Privileged Few, one could be forgiven for thinking that the era of imperialism was indeed behind us. They've merely traded one set of tools for another."

"He would be so happy to hear your words," Beketaten continued, "and I am certain any honour you have in mind shall be most fitting and welcomed by my People. I look forward to hearing that which you have in mind. I am only thankful that he took the time to prepare me so well before his life was robbed from him."

"I am assured that whatever issues shall present themselves that we will meet them with unified vision and a determination to best resolve them." With word that Naser would be returning to Clysperis Beketaten's eyes brightened, she was certain in such a manner that Abbas would quickly notice her joy. "I will see that the first thing we discuss is how to properly inform the public, every detail will be considered I promise. I will also take great joy in attending services, knowing that it is important to Naser. Understanding more of our soon-to-be-announced Peer Faith will be of great service to me as I ensure the Clysperi Manist community is properly represented in my Kingdom. In fact, now that I think of it, perhaps that will be a factor which figures into Naser's rule as King," she said with a smile.

"I am thankful you will do what you can in regards to Royal Seleucid. I've nothing against King Heydar and believe that there are many areas where our cooperation could do much good for Midaranye, and Mundus as a whole. I'm sure once we meet and actually speak to each other, as opposed to at each other, we'll find our goals and principles are more aligned than opposed, yes?"

"I have noticed these developments," Beketaten said of the Slavic Federation, "and I was hoping we would have the opportunity to discuss them. If there is anything I can do to assist, especially in regards to Clysperi of the Congregation, it would be my pleasure. To see another state aligned more closely with our positions and causes only brings a brighter day for Midaranye that much closer. Although I am assured you have a strategy already in hand."

[Markus]

Abbas noticed Beketaten’s joy when she heard Naser would be returning to Clysperis and was glad to see it.

“I have faith in you two and I look forward to the day that we will officially become family.”

“I agree and I am sure that King Heydar has nothing against you either. “

“On the Slavic Federation issue, right now efforts are made by us to see the opposition win the elections. The demographics seem to favor the opposition but it’s a close race. This whole election process is something that I frankly lack the patience to watch closely and I am glad our kingdoms do not have them. My advisors inform me that the Clysperi of the Congregation are a significant minority that could turn the tide. I would appreciate it if you could have your priests encourage those of the Congregation to go out and vote. The faithful of the Congregation are aligned to our values and they need not be said who to vote for, they know themselves who better represents their interests.

I would also want to keep in close contact in the issue and as opportunities arise, to further coordinate on the matter.“

[Beatrice]

"Thank you, Abbas," Beketaten replied with a smile, "While I may have lost my father, I think in some ways, Ma'at has a long arc of correcting things, thus I'm gifted not only a husband, but I hope, you should come to allow me to call you father one day."

"Coordination is most wise," Beketaten continued, "and I would hope to see us discuss matters regularly so that our policies may be aligned. I don't expect there to be perfect harmony between us on everything but, at least in public, we should present as unified a front as possible. The internationalists thrive on division, after all."