Chapter Twenty-Five: Busy Days, Unexpected Preparations

Astha spent the next three days taking care of her household business. As expected, Oyaji-san had handled most of the day to day things while she was away, but there was still a fair amount to be done. Household expenses had to be approved. Various requests from servants and staff had to be considered and made note of, and permission granted and refused. The grounds of the Kiev estate were always in need of some repairs or modifications, or upkeep of one for or another. Astha looked over those as well.

Then there were duties that went with being an official of the Empire. Though most of her work was routed through other channels while she was in the outer world, she still needed to look over the reports and answer any major questions that had arisen. She also wrote her own report of the events during their mission, though she followed her superiors lead in omitting certain details. And once everything had been properly handled, it has to be delivered, the messages sent, and everything checked to make sure it was in order. The whole process took time. Normally, it was something that drove her crazy. She didn't like doing paperwork, it was so dull. But after the stresses of the journey, she found it oddly soothing to immerse herself in the relatively simply matters of running her household and answering queries. It was far easier than the careful dance of words and gestures that she'd had to put up with as a diplomat.

The third evening, a message came for her, requesting her presence at the Imperial Palace the following night, to discuss the next phase of their diplomatic work. Astha sent back her reply with the same courier, and informed Oyaji-san, so she'd be sure to have her court clothing ready.

The following evening, she presented herself at the Imperial Palace. To her surprise she was ushered, not into one of the reception rooms, but into a small room close to the Inner Palace. The place was a small comfortable space, with a desk and a few chairs, clearly meant for business, but far more casual than an audience chamber.

Seth was waiting for her. Astha waited until the door had shut behind her, then bowed. "Your Majesty."

Seth smiled. "There's no need to be formal, Astharoshe. Tonight is simply a quiet meeting to discuss some things. So you can relax."

"I understand." Astha stepped a few more paces into the room, and at the Empress's nod, settled herself into a chair. "Forgive me, but is Lord Constantine…"

Seth's grin widened. "Abel will be here in a few minutes. I actually asked him to come a little later. I have a couple matters I'd like to discuss with you before he gets here, if you don't mind."

Astha nodded, but she felt her muscles tense, ever so slightly. "Of course."

Seth moved forward, till she settled in a chair about two feet away. She stared at Astah intently for some moments, then spoke in a quiet, casual manner. "I noticed it when you came back from your journey…Abel's aura clings to you. It was fairly faint then, and it's almost gone now, but I've never seen that before. I was wondering if perhaps you could explain it to me, Duchess of Kiev."

Astha blinked, and felt herself flushing red. But there was nothing she could do except reply. "The Vatican confiscated my Aqua Vitae. Lord Constantine…in order to protect me and allow me to remain with him, he gave me his blood, and used his powers to render the Bascillus dormant, for the time we were there."

Seth's eyes widened. "Abel used the Crusnik on you?"

"He did. He was very careful." Astha felt her blush deepening. She bowed her head. "I apologize if my actions in accepting his blood were too forward, Your Majesty. But I was concerned that our only other options would endanger both of us." She paused. "Our only other course of action was to resort to deliberate silver poisoning, or…" She hesitated.

"Or you might have taken what you needed from Abel." Seth grimaced. "I can fully understand why you should wish to avoid the silver poisoning." She looked up into Astha's eyes, and amusement touched her features. "You need not be concerned that I am upset with you. After all, this was also Abel's choice. I was merely surprised." She looked away. "It's unusual for my brother to take such a risk. To use the Crusnik like that…I've never heard of him doing so before. However, I am relieved it worked out."

There was silence between them for a moment. Astha was beginning to relax when Seth spoke again. "Regarding your time in the Vatican…what happened?"

Astha blinked. "Your Majesty?"

"It's Seth." The youthful face turned to her, and there was amusement in the voice, but none in the eyes. She stood suddenly, restlessly. "What happened, there in the Vatican? My brother gave his report, and I heard your story when you arrived but…there's something Abel isn't telling me. What is it that my brother doesn't want me to know?" She looked back at Astha, and an ironic smile flitted across her face. "I could probably ask Abel, and he'd tell me eventually, but the fact that he's avoiding it…something bad happened to him, something he doesn't wish to trouble me with. But I worry for him."

Astha stiffened, and bit her lip. She'd been expecting this question, but even so, she wasn't sure how to respond. Her duty to her Empress demanded she answer. More than that, she felt the other woman deserved to know. But she didn't want to violate the trust Abel had placed in her. He had trusted her to respect his decision to remain silent, and she wasn't sure how he would feel if she revealed the truth now.

"Astharoshe?" Seth's quiet question cut across her racing thoughts.

"I…forgive me." She bowed her head. "I don't mean to be rude. I apologize, however, I…" She took a deep breath. "I apologize for my rudeness, but…my lord trusted me with this matter, and I'm not certain how much I can say. I'm well aware that this may anger you, however…"

"You don't wish to violate Abel's privacy." To her surprise, the young woman smiled. "I understand. Actually, I'm rather pleased. Abel's a good man, he deserves people who are loyal to him, and protect him this way." She shrugged, though a tinge of sadness touched her face. "You don't have to worry, I won't order you to tell me. I merely wished to know." She sighed. "Abel…I know he's just trying to protect me, but…I hate not knowing what's happened to him. I hate…knowing something might be wrong, but he won't let me see it."

Astha nodded. She understood all to well. She bit her lip again, torn this time, not between duty to the Empress and to her tovarish, but between concern for the woman before her and for the man whom she'd protected. She thought for a moment, then spoke hesitantly. "My Lady…are my words here tonight to be part of the formal report to the Council?"

"No." Seth shook her head. "Nothing I ask tonight will be reported to the Imperial Council." She turned. "I only wish to know, as Abel's sister, if anything happened to hurt my brother."

Astha nodded. "I…I believe it was reported that there was a question of his identity?"

"There was." Seth nodded. "Did something happen regarding that?"

"Yes." Astha looked away from the emerald eyes. "The Cardinal di Medici guessed at his true identity." She paused, choosing her next words with care. "He had the Ambassador interrogated."

"That man…" Seth's voice hardened, and Astha looked back at her to see one fist clench. In a softer but no less intense voice, she spoke again. "Did that man torture my brother?"

"He was…the Ambassador was beaten. However, Lady Caterina and His Holiness stopped the questioning before it went any further than that." Astha swallowed.

"I see. How bad was he hurt?" The ice was fading slightly from the young woman's voice.

"He had fractured ribs, and severe bruising on his chest, and some wounds to his wrists. They healed within a few days." She considered telling the Empress about the incidents involving Abel's chest, about the scar, but she refrained. She vividly recalled the shame and anguish that had been in Abel's voice, and there was no reason to bring up such a personal torment.

Seth stood still for a moment, then released a long slow breath. "I see. Well then…" She turned, her eyes meeting Astha's with a look that combined sorrow and wry humor. "I suppose Abel didn't want to tell me because he was afraid I'd get angry. Or upset."

"Yes. I believe so." Astha bowed her head again. "I apologize. I wasn't able to protect him better, or to help him."

"Now really, that isn't true at all." Abel's soft voice sounded from the doorway. Astha jumped, moving to her feet in surprise.

Abel was standing by the door, dressed in an informal shirt and a set of casual pants he'd worn during their travels with a jacket thrown over it to make himself presentable. He moved forward to settle into the remaining chair, an expression of half-amused exasperation playing across his features. He smiled at Astha. "I've already told you, you helped me a great deal." He turned to regard his sister. "I suppose you were asking her about the events at the Vatican?"

"Yes. She told me about your interrogation." Seth sighed. "Honestly Abel…you had fractured ribs?"

"Yes, well…things did get a little violent." Abel matched her sigh with one of his own. "Fortunately, Lady Caterina interceded on my behalf, and the Pope later offered me his protection." He smiled lightly. "I had intended to tell you, eventually."

"Hmmph." Seth snorted. "You never tell me things like that. Really…you might at least consider how I feel about these things." She stood, moved forward to stand before her brother. "I know you're just trying to protect me, but still…Abel…when things like that happen to you…"

"I know." Abel smiled gently.

Seth looked into his eyes. "Abel…did something else happen? You still look troubled."

He released another sigh, in a long slow exhalation. "Cain's power…left a mark. I'm afraid I still…haven't quite adjusted. The Cardinal's men woke some memories, and I reacted rather badly. Fortunately, Astha was able to handle the situation." He smiled, a gentle soothing smile. "It's really nothing to worry about. Just old memories, too close to the surface." He touched his sister's hand comfortingly.

Seth sighed. "Well, I suppose it's all right, as long as you're fine now. You are all right, Abel?"

"I'm fine." He pulled her into a quick embrace. "It's really nothing to worry about." There was a shadow lingering in his eyes, and Astha knew Seth saw it too, but whatever it was, she chose not to comment.

After a moment, Seth stepped free of her brother's arms. "Well then, if we've got that settled, I suppose we ought to get down to business." She moved towards her desk, and lifted a large stack of papers from one corner. "These came for you while you were traveling, Abel. It's quite interesting."

He blinked, then took the sheaf of documents from her. One eyebrow rose. "I see. The royal crest of Germanicus." He leafed through them. "The Franc Kingdom too. And…let's see…this appears to be the seal for the Amsterdam region, and the island of Eire, and this…" His mouth twitched. "Hispania as well? It looks as if every major power in the Terran world has elected to have words with us." He looked back over the envelopes. "I'm surprised you haven't looked through these yet."

Seth grinned. "I considered it. But you have a better grasp of things in the outer world than I do. Besides, I have a feeling that it's you they want to talk to. I've been out in the marketplace, and there are hundreds of rumors concerning your journey to the Vatican."

"I see. The gamble paid off then." Abel grinned. He looked back at the pile of correspondence on his lap. "Well then, shall we see what they have to say?"

He considered the seal on the first one. "Hmmm…this is interesting. This is the royal crest, Ludwig II's own seal. I'm surprised he would bother at such an early stage of the game." He reached forward, and took a letter opener off the desk, and opened the document in a quick easy movement. He set the opener aside, along with the envelope, and began to consider the contents. "He wrote it in German though…"

Seth grimaced. "A challenge? Or simply lack of courtesy?"

"Oh, probably both, if what I've heard of him is true. It's more likely a test of our skills and awareness outside the Empire." He scanned the letter, and a look of combined amusement and exasperation crossed his face. "Very typical of what I've heard. It says he has no interest in an alliance, however, he is willing to entertain trade discussions, under certain conditions."

"Conditions?" Seth eyed her brother.

"Hmmm…yes. He's not very specific. However, I would guess that he intends to try and maneuver us into a less advantageous position. Everything I've heard of Ludwig indicates that he doesn't hold with alliances, and he only negotiates from a position of strength." Abel folded the letter and tapped it against his chin, a slight frown on his face. "He doesn't like taking an inferior position…but he's a shrewd man."

"So…what do you think we should do?" Seth sighed. "In a situation like that, I'm rather inclined to ignore him. It's not as if we need the support."

"No. However, refusing him may put our alliance with Albion at risk. Ludwig is a blood relative of the royal family, a second or third cousin, I think. He was considered a potential claimant to the throne at one time." Abel considered a moment longer, then frowned at the paper. "It's a delicate situation, but I think it's possible to negotiate with him and not lose face or value. While it is a politically strong country, Germanicus is very insular. And technologically speaking, they're nowhere near as advanced as Albion. Even if we negotiate at a disadvantage, it can be done in a way as to leave us on level ground." He sighed. "I don't really want to deal with him, but I don't think we can afford to disregard him, especially since we made the first approach."

"Hmmph. If you say so." Seth made a face. "I'll let you and Mirka sort that out." She gestured at the other envelopes. "What about the others?"

"Well…let's see…" Abel picked up another. "Eire, is it?" He cracked the seal. "Ah…well, this one is a bit more reasonable." He read through. "They've declared an interest in both trade and a potential alliance." He considered the letter. "This is one I'd give to Mirka to handle."

"Why so?" Seth leaned forward.

"Because, any negotiations on behalf of Eire will be handled by Lady Jane." Abel folded the letter. "We can't afford to ignore their request, for the same reason we can't afford to antagonize Ludwig. Lady Jane is also a blood relative of the Albion royal family. She can also claim personal ties of friendship with Colonel Mary Spencer, head of the Albion Royal Army. She's actually quite a good ally to have, she'll help cement the alliance with Albion, and Eire has a decent source of trade. They aren't politically powerful, but they aren't a group to argue with unnecessarily."

"I see." Seth traced a hand over a sheet of paper on her desk. "But why Mirka and not you?"

"Well, because…" Abel flushed slightly. "Mirka and Lady Jane have very similar temperaments I think. But beyond that…" He flushed harder. "Lady Jane will take a more positive approach to a female ambassador, but I don't think it's a situation where Astha would be comfortable."

Astha stiffened. "I can handle it."

Abel blinked in her direction. "I'm well aware of that." He sighed. "It's not your abilities I'm questioning, it's just…well…" He was turning redder by the second.

Astha exchanged a quick look with the Empress, then slowly rose from her seat, and moved to stand directly in front of her partner. "Nightroad…if you don't explain in about ten seconds, I may be tempted to do something rash, even if you are my superior."

Abel flushed crimson. "Well…Lady Jane…favors women. While I can't say for certain, she might…try something. I'm not sure if she'd be serious, or just testing you, but..."

"Try something?" For a moment, Astha didn't get it. Then she took another look at Abel's red face, and it clicked. "You mean…" She backed up and sat back in her chair with a thump, her own face slightly pink. "I see."

Seth chuckled. "You're right, Brother. In that sort of situation, Mirka is definitely the best one to send." She leaned over the desk and plucked the paper neatly from Abel's hand. "I'll let her know. Now then, on to the next one."

"What…oh, yes, of course." Abel's fingers fumbled across the next letter. "This one is from the Amsterdam region." He broke the seal, and scanned the contents. "They're also interested in talking with us." He frowned thoughtfully, then folded the letter. "We should probably hold off on this one."

Seth frowned as well. "That region…as I recall, it's one of the major Methuselah gathering points outside the Empire. Are you sure you want to delay that, Abel?"

"Yes. For the moment." Abel tapped the letter. "Up until about 15 years ago, the Methuselah Count Four and the human rulers of the city co-existed reasonably well. However, at about that time, there was a major upheaval. Someone paid the Count Four to destroy the leading family in the area. There was one known survivor of that tragedy, and one missing girl. The area's been in absolute chaos since."

"I see. What do you recommend, then?"

"Well…a non-committal reply would be best. However…our best choice is to contact Hugue. He'll know who best to approach, if anyone. And really, he ought to be consulted anyway. If I can get a hold of him…" Abel sighed. "But the Professor says he's out again, so that may take some time…"

Astha sat up. "Hugue? Wasn't that one of your AX colleagues?" She remembered the Professor had mentioned him. She thought a moment. "The one with the sister?"

"That's him." Abel gave her a wry smile. "Hugue de Watteau. He's the survivor of the attack I mentioned, and his sister is the one who went missing. He...he was told she was dead, but given the source…he doesn't trust it. And even if he believes it…" Abel's voice dropped. "Hugue is out for blood. Ever since I've known him, he's been like that." Abel sighed again. "A few years back, he discovered that the Count Four was behind his family's slaughter. He killed all four of them. I don't know who took over in the Methuselah circles, if Hugue even left anyone. And I know absolutely nothing about the Terran lords who were there. But Hugue will know. And as the heir to the former ruling family…"

"All right. We'll hold our reply. In the meantime, you'll have to try and locate that friend of yours." Seth eyed her brother. "Do you have any idea of how to reach him, or where he is?"

"Caterina may know how to reach him still. As for location…he'll be near Amsterdam, I think. But I can't say for certain. Hugue is…unpredictable at best." He considered for a moment, then turned to the letter lying on his lap. "Shall we see what Hispania has to say?"

He flipped the parchment envelope over, and studied the seal. "The royal family. That's a good sign." He broke it open carefully, and once again began to read. His expression lightened. "Well, this is certainly a friendly letter. They're open to both trade and a treaty. In fact, they've offered to begin negotiations as soon as possible, with a few minor concessions."

"And those would be?" Seth raised an eyebrow.

"They'd prefer to have a two week visit from our Ambassadors beforehand, reciprocated by their chosen ambassador coming here. 'To get a feeling for economic and social conditions of both countries' it says, and to establish friendly relations between the negotiating parties." Abel looked up at his sister. "I believe we can accommodate that."

"Of course. It's actually rather sensible. Are there any other conditions?"

"Oh…none specifically. Only that they've appointed a lesser member of the royal family as their negotiator." He blinked, pulling a second envelope from inside the packet. "It appears our potential ambassador has sent us a letter of introduction of his own."

Abel set the main letter to one side and broke open the smaller envelope. He frowned at it. "This handwriting…it looks rather familiar." He read through, and Astha heard a small sound of surprise escape him. Seth must have heard it as well, because she was up out of her seat in an instant. "Abel?"

"Wha…oh, sorry." Abel gave his sister a sheepish smile. "I was just…a little surprised. This letter….it's written by Antonio Borgia, the Prince of Hispania." He set it down carefully.

"You know something of him?" Seth eyed her brother.

"Well, yes." Abel's eyes went far away. "He's one of the younger princes. He's…very bright. He attended the University at a young age, and received seven degrees by the time he was 23."

Astha whistled. Even in the Empire, that was a remarkable feat. "Then he's very skilled."

"Oh, he is that. However…" Abel sighed. "His true power is…far more complex. Antonio knows people from every class imaginable, and from Hispania to the Vatican to Istvan. But you'd never know it meeting him on the street. His first impression is almost always of a classic fop, a well bred, well educated boy without a drop of common sense. Arrogant and rather spineless even. But…it's all a smokescreen. And no one I know has ever been able to tell how much is real and how much is not. And even that…is not his primary gift."

"Then what is?" Seth blinked.

"Misdirection and manipulation. Antonio is a master at it." He turned to regard his sister with troubled eyes. "You're very good at it yourself, but Antonio…I'm not entirely sure he couldn't teach you some tricks. He spent a few years in the Vatican, as a Cardinal, as Minister of Public Relations, precisely because of that talent. He could say something completely misleading to the press one day, and then say something else entirely the next day, and no one would think to question him. He was simply that smooth."

Astha frowned. "Why would a Prince of Hispania be a Cardinal in the Vatican?"

Abel sighed. "A few years ago, one of the Arch-bishops rebelled against the Pope. It was a rather dangerous time, because it was extremely difficult to tell who was on which side." His eyes moved between the two of them. "It was kept quiet, with good reason."

Seth nodded. "I understand." Astha added her nod to that of the Empress.

Abel took another deep breath. "We had several close calls, and at least once the Pope was taken hostage by the opposing faction. We nearly didn't rescue him in time." He folded his hands in front of him, a distracted look on his face. "At that time, Antonio approached us. He said he could give us a list of names of the rebels, particularly the leaders. In return he wanted the protection of the Vatican, and a position befitting his status as a nobleman."

"So they made him a Cardinal?" Astha blinked.

"Not quite that quickly. However, he was taken into Vatican custody, and given protection as a clergyman while his information was investigated. As it turned out, Antonio's information was genuine, and helped both the AX and the Inquisition a great deal. He also proved himself adept at handling dangerous situations. It was then that he was given the rank of Cardinal, and placed in his position as Minister. He made an ideal buffer between the Vatican and the media, with his manners and his appearance. And as I've said before, his skills at misdirection and manipulation are impressive." Abel sighed. "I wasn't aware he'd left the Vatican, but I suppose after the threat was over, it made sense." He frowned. "I was wondering, while we were there, why he didn't put in an appearance. The presence of two Imperial envoys wasn't something he would have failed to take notice of."

"I see. Then we should probably handle him very carefully." Seth frowned thoughtfully. "Can you handle him, Abel?"

Abel took one deep breath. "I can. But there may be a slight problem." His eyes met his sisters across the desk. "Antonio and I…we knew each other. When he originally came forward, I was the operative assigned to take charge of him and bring him to Rome. And afterward, I worked with him on numerous missions, both in efforts to down the New Vatican, and to neutralize plots by the Order of Rosenkreutz."

Astha winced. "Would he know you, now?"

"I'm afraid so." Abel bit his lip. "He'll see right through the change in my status. He's used that trick himself more than once. And telling him I had a twin…he'll know that for a half-truth as well. To be honest, I don't think we can fool him, and I'm not certain it's safe for him to have that knowledge."

"You think he'll betray you?" Seth looked concerned.

"I don't know. Antonio…will do what is best for himself. And for Hispania, since he's chosen to return to his family. He might keep his silence, if he could be persuaded it was of the greatest benefit to his purposes." Abel sighed again, and rested his forehead in one hand. "There is no one in Hispania besides Antonio who would care one way or the other who I am, so it wouldn't damage our relations with them at all. However, if word returned to the Vatican…if for some reason Francesco were to seek his opinion and he thought it was in his best interests….they will believe him." Abel's face was pale. "I'm not sure how it would go."

"Then exposing you to him could be dangerous." Seth frowned.

"Yes. But so would avoiding him." Abel made a face. "At this point…well, it's a little too late for me to go into hiding. Especially in these circumstances."

Seth chewed a lip thoughtfully. "Well, how influential is Hispania? Can we afford to put them off?"

"Not for long. They have close ties to the Church, especially Antonio. And they have great wealth, and trade influence." Abel shook his head. "We really can't afford to stall them."

"Then how do you recommend we respond?" Seth sat back.

Astha sat forward, hesitantly. "I have one idea. Perhaps…we could send someone else." She paused, trying to sort her thoughts into proper order. "We've received multiple applications for contact. And at this point, we need information on at least two of them. We need to understand the situation in Germanicus, and in the Amsterdam region. For at least one of those missions, I believe my lord is the only one who can accomplish it."

Abel frowned. "You mean…"

"You're needed to go to Amsterdam and contact this Hugue person you spoke of." Astha considered the paper. "Given the necessity, it would be understandable for us to send a different envoy in your place."

"Well, that is true. And I'm sure they would understand, especially for the initial visits." Abel frowned. "But who should we send?"

"I can go." Astha sat forward. She didn't much feel like leaving the Empire, but… "As your associate, I'll be able to represent you properly, without giving away your identity."

Abel blinked. "Well, that is true, but…Astha, are you sure you want to do something like that?" He sighed. "I mean…it seems rather unfair of me…."

"Nonsense." Seth's crisp voice cut across her brother's words. "Honestly Abel, you can't do everything. And Astharoshe is an experienced negotiator. After all, she did help negotiate the cease fire between the Vatican and the Empire while you were gone."

"Oh, I don't doubt her capability." Abel grimaced, then gave her a sheepish look. "It just feels…well, I suppose I feel like I'm running away from my responsibilities, making you handle Antonio."

Astha snorted. "Don't be an idiot, tovarish. You're the only one who can look into the matter of Amsterdam without causing unwanted trouble. In that case, it only makes sense for you to send someone else to Hispania. Besides…" She looked into his eyes. "You were planning on seeing him if he comes here, right?"

"Well, yes..." Abel sighed. He looked into the distance for a moment. "Just remember…he likes to tease, and he likes to treat people very casually. He'll probably do the same to you, if only to see how you react."

"Hmph. As if I couldn't handle that." Astha gave him a small grin. "After all, you were the one calling me 'Astha' within the first day of our meeting, remember?"

Abel returned her smile. "Well, yes. But I would advise you against choking Antonio to teach him better manners. And as I've said before…well, he likes to call women things like 'sweetheart' and 'honey', no matter what their rank or status. And he has a habit of flirting with pretty women."

The implication of his last statement threw her off balance for a moment. She blinked, pleasantly pleased by the compliment he'd just given her. After a moment, she managed a nod. "I'll keep it in mind."

"Hmm…Actually, as my envoy for a diplomatic mission, you really ought to have an escort." Seth was watching her carefully. "And I think this mission would be a good one for the Earl of Memphis. You and he have already worked together, after all, and Ion is a good person to have at your back."

Abel nodded. "It is true. He's a very steady individual. And he carries himself well." He thought for a moment. "Despite their personality differences, Ion and Antonio actually have quite a few things in common."

Astha nodded. "Actually, I was planning to ask if I would be going alone, or with an escort." Imperial diplomats always went in pairs, in case one of them ran into trouble. She bowed her head slightly. "I have absolutely no objections to being partnered with the Earl of Memphis."

"Well then, it's settled." Seth stretched, cracking one shoulder. "Mirka can open negotiations with Eire, and I'll look into the matter of the Franc Kingdom, since they've also sent notice. Abel, you can go and check things in Germany, and try to find your contact in Amsterdam. And Astha, you and the Earl of Memphis will take care of the initial contact with Hispania for me."

"That sounds reasonable." Abel stretched as well. "What sort of timeframe were you hoping to work in?" He considered the letters strewn over the chair and the desk. "We really should reply promptly...but…there are some other considerations as well." He settled back. "We have about three weeks before Christmas…and I'm not sure how that will factor into our work. The Vatican…well, they certainly wouldn't welcome us within the walls." He chuckled softly. "However, I'm not so sure about the others. And I think, for right now, it's best if we respect that."

Seth shrugged. "Well, I don't particularly mind." She looked at the paperwork. "It'll take us a few days to get everything arranged anyway. We may not be ready to leave until the beginning of the New Year." She looked at her brother. "What are you thinking, Abel?"

He shook his head slightly. "Negotiations with the other major countries will take their own pace. But Amsterdam…to have any chance of finding Hugue, I'm going to have to move soon. He's unpredictable, and my information is already old, by his standards."

"I see. How fast do you think you need to move?" Seth's expression was neutral, but Astha could hear the faint note of concern in her voice. "You really shouldn't push too hard."

He shook his head again. "It can't be helped." He frowned thoughtfully at the wall behind his sister. "Given the situation, it may be best to simply start for Amsterdam, and contact Caterina or the Professor en-route. They may be able to give me a starting point. If not, I'll have to start at the places Hugue is likely to go, and work from there."

"How long do you think that will take you?" Seth stood restlessly. "I need you here as well Abel."

He offered her a gentle smile. "I know. I'll be sure to keep in touch. However, given the difficulty….how about this? I promise to return by the New Year. If I can't find Hugue in that time, it's because he doesn't want to be found. And in that case, I'll come back and we'll make alternative plans."

Seth sighed. "All right." She looked at the wall again. "When did you plan to leave?"

Abel shrugged. "Well, I suppose I hadn't really thought that far, but…probably within a week. As soon as I can arrange to leave without causing a great deal of fuss."

Seth chuckled. "Well, I can at least help you with that. I have special courier ships that fly along the trade routes all the time. I'll see who's going that direction soon." She moved to stand before her brother, and touched his cheek lightly. "I really don't like it that you're leaving again so soon. You promise you'll stay in touch?"

"Yes. I promise." He took her hand gently with his own.

"All right. But you'd better come home safe this time. Understand, Abel? And if you get hurt…please, don't keep it from me."

"I understand." He offered her an impish smile. "However, I have absolutely no intention of getting hurt this time." He held her gaze for a moment longer, the smile fading into a serious expression, then turned to Astha. "Miss Astha, I'm afraid I'm going to have to ask you to take over for me, if you don't mind."

She couldn't help tensing. Though she was confident in her skills, she knew she was no match for this man. "My lord…"

He offered her a bright sunny smile, the one she remembered from their first missions together. "It's all right, you'll do fine. You'll have Ion to help you, and I'll leave you some notes on the people I know. I'm sure, with my help and your own skills, everything will come out absolutely splendidly."

She wasn't nearly as sure, but in the face of his warm enthusiasm, she couldn't help but smile in return. She bowed her head slightly. "I'll do my best."

"That's the spirit." Abel grinned at her a moment more, then stood and stretched. "Really, I don't know about you two, but I think it's way past time for a meal."

Seth laughed. "Only you could go from politics to food in a single thought, Abel." She shrugged. "Well, I guess it is time for dinner. Will you join us, Astharoshe?"

Astha blinked, startled by the invitation, then bowed slightly. "I'd be honored."

Dinner arrived a few minutes later, in the hands of a servant that Seth called. The three of them settled around the desk, eating and talking about little things. Astha was surprised at how comfortable it felt. By the time the meal reached it's end she was relaxed, laughing with Abel as Seth recounted the latest encounter between Baibars and Mirka. The Yenceri were known to avoid the Duchess of Moldova like a plague, and with good reason. She loved to tease them, playing pranks on them, or asking for things that seemed innocent, but drove the warriors to distraction. Astha chuckled, trying to imagine the solid, rough Captain of the Yenceri holding a kitten for a bath. Beside her, Abel was practically doubled over in mirth.

As the laughter settled, Astha took another sip of her wine and snuck a second look at her partner. He was wiping tears of laughter from his eyes, grinning foolishly at the girl across the desk from her. He settled back in his chair finally, and Astha saw the amusement in his face. She smiled and took another drink to hide her expression. She liked seeing him smile, hearing him laugh. The lines of strain she'd seen were erased by his good humor, and she liked it better that way, never mind that she'd had occasion to wish he could be more serious.

Finally, the last of the food was gone. Astha lingered over her wine glass, then took a final swallow and set it down. "I don't mean to be rude, but I fear it's getting late."

"Hmmm?" Abel blinked at her, then looked at the clock on the wall. "So it is." He stood. "You probably want to get back to your house."

"It's not that." Astha shook her head. "However, if we're going to be working tomorrow, I'm sure I ought to let you get some rest." She bowed. "I hope you'll pardon my leaving."

"It's fine." Seth shrugged and rose from her chair as well. "Actually, I was beginning to wonder about that myself." She shrugged. "I'm sure we'll have more time to talk later. For now, you should go get some rest. I'll be presenting our plans to the Council tomorrow, and I'll need you there. So be prepared…I'm going to be calling on you a lot more from now on, all right Astha?" She grinned.

Astha bowed. "It's my honor to assist you in whatever way you ask."

Seth laughed. "You needn't be so formal. After all, you are Abel's friend. Speaking of which…Abel, you should escort her to the door, like a gentleman."

"Wha…oh, of course." Abel turned pink, then offered her a wry grin. "Miss Astha?"

"Thank you." They walked in companionable silence through the palace. Astha found herself wishing she had something more she could say, though she'd never been the chatting type. But as they reached the door, Abel turned and offered her a smile.

"Well then, I guess I'll be seeing you tomorrow?" His expression turned rueful. "I must admit, this whole thing is a lot more work that I thought it would be. And I do feel a little guilty about making you face Antonio without me."

Astha snorted. "As if I couldn't handle one little Terran brat, even if he is royalty. You just worry about the things you need to take care of, and leave me to handle this. Besides…traditionally, a junior envoy is supposed to handle things like this. That way, if something happens, there's someone higher up to manage the reaction. So really, you're doing exactly what you're supposed to. So don't worry about it."

"Well, if you say so." Abel shrugged. He stood for a moment, then spoke quietly. "Thank you, by the way."

"For what?" Astha stared at him.

"For telling her. I…I'm afraid I was too embarrassed to admit to her what happened. And for eating with us." He smiled. "She really does enjoy having company, more than just me."

She couldn't think of a suitable reply to that. Finally, she nodded. "You're welcome. I'll see you tomorrow night."

"Of course. Did you want me to walk you home?" He looked at her. "I mean…I suppose it is the gentlemanly thing to do, but I haven't quite gotten used to all the court rules and such."

"It's not necessary." She shook her head. "I'll manage." She bowed once more. "Good night, tovarish." Then, before he could say anything else, she turned and left.

The next few days were maddeningly busy. Astha found herself at court, usually around mid-afternoon of every day, and often she didn't leave until almost dawn. In between, she worked on arranging things in her household, so that her next absence wouldn't cause too much trouble.

The first two days involved convincing the Council that the whole thing was a good idea. Astha had sat in Council before, but this….it was maddening. Every single noble in the Royal Council had a different opinion about a different part of the plans Abel laid before them. Some questioned the need for forming anymore alliances. Some weren't sure about having multiple negotiators. One noble had even questioned Astha's ability to be Abel's stand in for the first trip to Hispania, by pointing out that a negotiation of that level ought to be handled by the Ambassador. Astha wasn't sure whether to thank him for the statement, or throttle him for questioning her competence.

By the end of the first day in Council, Astha was more than ready to scream in frustration. Instead, she watched Abel and Seth patiently maneuvering the various lords into the positions they wanted them in. She wasn't sure which startled her more, Abel's success, or the fact that he did it all with a forthright, open honesty that served him better than any of the political strategizing every noble learned at a young age.

Finally, they received agreement from the Council. The next night found Astha standing in the main communications room, waiting nervously for a contact hook-up to Hispania. Abel, standing beside her, smiled and patted her shoulder. "Don't worry. It'll be fine. Just remember not to let Antonio upset you."

He looked over at the console. "It looks like they're responding. I'll leave you to it then, Astha." He turned. She had just enough time to bite back a curse that was more nerves than frustration, and school her expression into the proper diplomatic appearance before the projection console crackled and lit up.

The face in the image was that of a youthful looking man, with auburn hair and bright eyes. Even through the transmission, Astha could tell he was handsome and knew it. He looked at her, and his eyes widened. "Well hello, lovely lady." He dipped his head. "Antonio Borgias, at your service. What can I do for such a beautiful woman?"

If Abel hadn't warned her, that greeting would have shaken her confidence. Or irritated her. Instead, she bowed. "My Lord Antonio? My name is Astharoshe Asran, Duchess of Kiev and diplomat for Her Imperial Majesty, Augusta Veradica. I've called tonight to discuss the potential of trade and peace talks between our two countries."

"Hmmm…so you're going to be representing the Empire?" There was amusement, admiration, and something else she couldn't quite place in his eyes. He made a careless gesture. "Well, I thought the representative was going to be a man. Lord…Constantine or something like that."

Astha bowed her head again. "I regret to inform you that My Lord Ambassador Constantine has been retained on other matters by Her Majesty, and is unable to speak with you at this time. He asked me to convey his regrets and tell you he looks forward to meeting with you at a later date."

"Oh that's fine. Honestly…" He grinned at her. "I think this is a definite improvement. I'd much rather talk to a beautiful young woman than a man." He watched her a moment longer, then shifted, as if settling down for something, and casually flipped an errant lock of hair out of his eyes. "So then, what is it you wanted to discuss?"

Astha straightened. "We received your letter regarding opening diplomatic relations. Both Her Majesty, and my lord are agreeable to the terms you stated. I understand that before negotiations start, however, that you would like to extend a two week stay within your country to one of our Ambassadors, and had the intention of spending two weeks here in our Empire."

"Of course." He shrugged. "Here in Hispania, we don't know as much about the Empire as the Albion government does. I haven't met very many Methuselah, and most of them didn't leave a very good impression. But…that sweetheart Caterina does seem to know some fairly decent folk from your side of the border." He stopped, and frowned a moment. "Come to think of it…I thought you might be familiar. Have you worked with Caterina?"

Astha nodded. "I have. I was a diplomatic envoy to the Vatican twice."

"Ah! I knew it." He grinned. "Well then, that makes things much easier. We've had some balky nobles here, but if I can vouch for you, that makes life simpler." He settled back once more. "So…this visit. Shall I visit you first, or are you coming here?" His smile widened. "I'd be more than willing to make the trip tomorrow, to meet such a lovely beauty as yourself."

"Thank you for the compliment, my lord." Astha inclined her head. "In regards to our mutual visits unless you have a particular reason to decide otherwise, we planned to make the first step, as a token of our goodwill."

"That sounds like a good idea to me." Antonio shrugged. "Personally, I don't have an issue with Methuselah, but we've got some Council members who are more paranoid. So…what time frame were you looking at?"

Astha considered. "As a representative of the Empire, I am willing to come at your convenience. However, we had heard that there is a major religious festival occurring within the next month. Naturally, we don't wish to impose…"

"Hey, now that is a great idea!" Antonio's grin widened. "Having you come for Christmas…that's perfect! You'll be seeing us at our best, and it'll be easy to include you in all the normal celebrations and such. And then I can return with you just in time for New Year. And what cooler way to celebrate a new year than by visiting your Empire as an ambassador of peace?"

Astha blinked, taken aback. "Well…I would have to speak to my Empress. However, if this is truly what your government requests…then I would be more than willing to honor that."

"Sure, sure." Antonio nodded. "Tell you what…I hate to break off so soon from a discussion with such a lovely lady, but why don't we end talks for now. You go talk to your Empress and I'll go talk to my king. Then you can give me a call tomorrow night, whenever you're up, and we'll finish out the details." He flashed her a salute with one hand. "Sound good?"

"Yes, my lord. However…I do have one further item to mention." She met his gaze. "By tradition, an envoy is accompanied by another member of our Court. With your permission, I'd like to bring another envoy. His name is Ion Fortuna, the Earl of Memphis. He has also served as an envoy to the Vatican in the past few years."

"Hmmm…well, I had hoped it could be just us, since I can't meet the Ambassador." Antonio shrugged. "Ah well, it's only good sense to travel with a friend. Sure, I'll let them know." He waved again. "Talk to you tomorrow, gorgeous." Then the connection went dead. She stared at the empty projection space for a moment, then went in search of her superior.

Abel and Seth were both in one of the business offices, just outside the Empress's private wing of the Palace. Astha knocked politely, received permission to enter. She found the two of them bent over a set of maps, Abel frowning at one, while he traced something or other on the surface of it. He looked up as she entered. "Hello, Astha. That was quick."

"Yes." She nodded, hesitant. "I hope I'm not interrupting anything."

Seth shook her head and sat back. "Just Abel's travel plans, I'm afraid. He wants to leave in the next day or so, but it really is silly for him to just wander off with no plan of how to go about his search. Honestly…" She grinned at her brother.

"Yes, well…I can't exactly predict where Hugue will be, so I can't afford to have too rigid a plan. At present, we're only certain that he's within the Amsterdam region." Abel shrugged. "Never mind that. Astha…you had news?"

"Yes. I spoke with the Hispania ambassador. He requested, pending the approval of both you and his own government, that I visit their Court for Christmas, and return with him for New Years."

"Ah…you'd have to leave next week then." Abel whistled. "That's really rather rushed." He shrugged. "Well, if that's really the way he wants to do things, then I suppose it can't be helped. Unless you have some objections?" he cocked his head to look at his sister.

"No." Seth sighed. "Honestly, I'd much prefer to get things taken care of and settled as quickly as possible. All this fuss has my court in an uproar. And while I can't complain about it too much…I must admit, I do miss the times when all I had to worry about was what was going on within our borders, and the occasional invasion."

Abel stilled, his hands on the maps. "Do you regret this then?"

She gave him a quick smile. "Not at all. It's a relief to finally have a chance to make things easier. Besides…" She leaned forward to lay a hand gently on his. "I've always seen you fighting so hard to find your place in the world, Abel. But now…you look like you're finally sure of yourself. To see you like this, even if it is exhausting, is well worth the effort. Though seriously, why you have to always choose such a hard path for yourself, I'll never know."

A sad, gentle smile touched his face. "Well, I suppose it really can't be helped. This was just…something I felt I needed to do." He sighed, covered her hand with his for a moment, then turned back to Astha with a sheepish grin on his face. "Sorry about that, Miss Astha. It appears we got sidetracked a little. Regardless…" He paused. "I know that you've just returned from our mission. I suppose it's only fair to ask: Do you have any objections to this?"

Astha shook her head. "As an envoy of the Empress, I'm sworn to do whatever is commanded of me. If this is the Imperial will, then I won't hesitate."

"Well, yes, I'm quite aware of that. But that isn't what I asked of you." Abel's voice was gentle. He met her eyes. "I asked if you, Astharoshe Asran, were bothered by this." He looked away, that odd ironic smile on his face. "Even if you're willing to go as an envoy, if you have reservations or negative feelings about this venture, then they might affect how you see things. If you resent having to leave home so soon after your return, then it may show when you deal with your hosts. If you want some more time, then it's best to say so now."

Astha considered a moment, then looked over his shoulder. "If I may speak plainly, Empress?"

"Of course."

"I will admit, I do feel a little rushed. And I do feel a little uncertain. And that man…well, he's exactly as you warned me." She gave Abel a small grin. "However…I don't object to taking on this mission, nor to this schedule. For the sake of our Empire, this should be done as quickly and as well as possible. Besides, my tovarish…" She moved forward to meet his eyes, and smiled. "I happen to agree with your sister."

Abel blinked at her. "Ummm…"

Astha shrugged. "Even if it is a little fast, and even if it's tiring, a chance like this to make life easier shouldn't be wasted." She met his eyes. "And I rather like seeing this side of you too."

Abel flushed. "Well…I suppose…I really…." He looked away, still blushing. "I do appreciate the support but…for something like that…"

Seth chuckled. "Don't worry about it, Abel. It won't do you any good."

Abel sighed. "Well, if you say so." Despite his tone, there was a smile still touching his face.

Seth shrugged, suddenly all business. "Well, if we're going to get you out by next week, then we'd better hurry. There are a lot of preparations we need to make." She sighed. "For something like this, we can't waste time trying to get the Council to agree. That will take days." She ran a hand through her short black hair. "I guess I'll have to take the more troublesome route then." Her glance cut to her brother. "I'd have preferred to have more time to consider things, but it will be easiest if we simply announce your mission as well. Otherwise, they'll wonder why I'm not sending you."

"I know." Abel glanced down at the maps. "I think I know where to start, at least." He glanced up, and his face was apologetic. "Ah, Miss Astha…I do hate to ask but, do you think you could notify the Earl of Memphis and the Duchess of Moldova about our plans on your way home? I'd do it myself but…"

"You're busy. And I can certainly handle delivering a simple message to my supporting envoy." She shifted her weight slightly. "If you don't mind, I should probably be on my way now."

Seth nodded. "We have a lot to do. You should start your preparations at home. I'm sure you have plenty to do." She smiled. "Just remember, I'll need you here tomorrow night so I can give you your orders."

Astha bowed. "I understand." She turned slightly to look at Abel. "My lord…"

He chuckled. "You know…you're really going to have to get used to calling me by name." He raised one hand. "I'll see you tomorrow evening, Astha. Good night."

She nodded, letting her shoulders relax as she returned the smile. "Good night, tovarish. I'll see you tomorrow evening." She turned and made her exit, leaving her partner and his sister immersed in the maps once more.

The next evening, she and Ion presented themselves to the Council for their assignment. Even with Imperial decree, getting the formal orders took time, as did getting the paperwork. Astha found herself fighting to avoid fidgeting. To distract herself, she studied the faces of the nobles. Mirka was sitting in her seat, which meant that the figure on the throne was the true Empress. Astha didn't let her gaze linger there. Instead, her eyes cut left, to the silver-haired figure she expected to see.

He wasn't there. The seat to the right of the Empress was empty. Astha blinked, then quickly schooled her expression back to neutrality. She was a little surprised. She hadn't thought he was going to leave so soon. She remembered, he'd told her he'd be in court a little longer. Her attention was dragged back to the proceedings by the Empress. "Duchess of Kiev."

"Your Majesty." She bowed her head a little further.

"You have your orders. However, before you depart this evening, I will see you and the Earl of Memphis. That is all."

Astha bowed quickly. "Yes, Your Majesty. I await your pleasure."

Half an hour later, both of them were ushered into a small sitting room. To Astha's surprise, Abel was standing by the fireplace. He turned as they entered. "Miss Astha. Ion."

She smiled back at him. "I'm surprised. I'd have thought you'd be at the Council." She noticed then that he was wearing casual, non-descript clothing. It wasn't poorly made, but neither was it something you'd wear to court. "Something you want to tell me?"

"Yes." Abel grinned, and scratched the back of his head. "I…well, I decided I ought to leave a little earlier. So I'm actually leaving this evening. But…I did say I would see you this evening. So I thought I'd stop by and say goodbye, before I vanished on you."

"I see. I appreciate the courtesy." Astha nodded. "You will stay safe, right partner?" She gave him a slightly feral grin.

"Well, I'll certainly try my best. And you…well, take care of yourself." His eyes flicked to Ion. "Both of you. Remember what I told you."

"I'm sure they'll be all right, Abel." Seth came in, shaking her hair free of it's cap. She studied him. "You're all ready to go?"

"Yes. My transport should be here in an hour." He offered his sister a small smile.

She sighed. "Just take care of yourself, Abel. I want to see you back here by New Years, and I want to see you unharmed. All right?"

"All right." Abel nodded. He took two steps forward and embraced his sister gently. Then he shifted the pack on his back, and looked at Astha. "Well then…I'll see you later."

"Yeah." She wanted to say something else, but she'd already told him to stay safe. She wanted to wish him luck, but it wasn't really her style. So she stood awkwardly, watching as he shook Ion's hand. Then he was gone. Astha sighed, then turned to take her final orders from the Empress. But Abel stayed on her mind, that night and for the following ones. And as she boarded the ship four nights later, bound for Hispania, she was still thinking of him. She sighed, then tried to put him out of her mind. She had her own mission to deal with, and there was nothing she could do for him. All she could do was take care of her own assignment, and hope he remained safe.

Authors Note: To everyone who's been waiting for this…Sorry. Between moving and holidays and such, this took WAY longer than I wanted it to. I appreciate all your patience, and your support. A special thanks to those who sent me those polite messages reminding me of it during the busy times. It helped. I hope this lives up to your expectations, and now that things have settled a little, I hope to have the next one out much quicker.