Title: A Matter of Compensation
Author: Karina
Rating: PG
Pairing: Milliadro, Wu Fei
Notes: Challenge 87. Baby Series 3 #25. Takes place immediately after A Matter Of Murder.
Spoilers: None
Warnings:
Disclaimer: I don't own Gundam Wing or the Characters from the series but the baby is mine.
Title: A Matter of Compensation
"Chief Inspector Heinrich Guttenson of the Sanc Police Department has headed the investigation into the murder of Lord Richard Rochester. The Chief Inspector brought his report to me in light of the delicate nature of the relations existing between our two countries, and the delicate stability of the ESUN House of Representatives at this time."
Lord Sanderson Cartwright stirred, rising slowly and bowing formally. "With respect, Sir, am I to understand this meeting is required as there is diplomatic immunity involved?"
The King inclined his head slightly. "You are correct, Lord Cartwright. The investigation has determined the killer holds a diplomatic passport issued by the ESUN House of Representatives."
"With respect, Sir, I must question the Police report."
"I have had in my hands a copy of the report since yesterday. The Chief Inspector was kind enough to forward it to me, including the list of evidence gained to lead him to the conclusion of the perpetrator's identity. Lady Rowena, might I suggest you retire for the moment? Lord Cartwright can stand as proxy for you during the discussion of compensation for the stress you have suffered over the loss of your brother. Lady Alice has offered to sit with you."
The King inclined his head to Pagan who tugged on the bellpull and after a moment the door opened, admitting Lady Alice Darlian, who held out a hand to the young woman. The directive was clear and after a glance at Lord Cartwright Lady Rowena rose and made her exit.
With the Lady gone Milliardo smiled. "Well, gentlemen, I see no reason to beat about the bush. A diplomatic passport might afford the killer immunity from prosecution for the crime, but I do not see that the crime need be forgotten. Compensating the lady for the loss of her brother, the compensation to be paid by the killer, is at least one form of justice I might impose."
Lord Cartwright studied the other men present before turning back to the King. "I thank you on behalf of the Lady for your consideration of her familial link to the victim, Sir. I believe you mentioned compensation for Sanc?"
"Ah yes, I did. We will get to that shortly. Let me tell you, gentlemen," The King glowered at the assembled members of parliament. "I am singularly unamused that you took bribes to include Lord Richard as one of my sister's suitors. The Inspector's investigation has revealed the amounts you each garnered from the deceased and I seriously suggest you make equal sized donations to a list of charities to be provided to you as you leave this room. Said donations will be deposited before noon tomorrow."
Wu Fei resisted the urge to smirk at the members of Parliament. He had known the meeting was to reveal the murderer, he had not known Milliardo intended to exact some form of justice for the crime upon all parties even loosely involved. It appealed to his personal need for justice.
End
Karina Robertson 2008