Fwurg

[Lady Peinaili de Montrève]

Shortly after all the necessary arrangements had been made, the Lady de Montrève personally welcomed both Miss Shandryss and Miss Tayu Shanora as her guests at the Sundarian Embassy. Chambers had been prepared for them and the Lady de Montrève granted them full access to use the facilities at the Embassy, with the exception of several classified area's. They could now go anywhere they pleased, without the need of an escort to accompany them.

"Ladies," Peinaili said she greeted them in the foyer, " I am glad that the both of you have decided to accept my hospitality and I welcome you as my guests. I have taken the liberty of reserving a set of private rooms and with a study for you, as well as full access to our facilities and the gardens. Mind you however that there are several area's that handle classified affairs, they are still off limits.

As to our objectives, as I'm sure that her Imperial majesty has filled you in, all preparations have been made and we are ready to begin."

"Miss Shandryss," she said, "While Miss Shanora and I get started on our screening and interviews with certain ladies, might I suggest a visit to our Library. I'm sure that you can find Lady Koniova there whom, I recon, would to like speak with you."

[Shandryss]

"Thank you, senator de Montrève. My mistress has indeed informed me of her immediate wishes with regards to the lady Koniova."

Shandryss made her way to the library, to find lady Koniova.

((OOC: I propose that we do the Shandryss-Koniova part first.))

[Alexandra Koniova]

((OOC: Sure))

The Library wasn't all that large but with a high ceiling, a rather rich decorations and with a well kept collection it did breathe an ambiance of style and learning. It was clear that someone had taken an interest in ensuring a good study environment and yet offer a certain sense of class and dignity while studying.

It wasn't particularly busy in the library at this time of the day and Shandryss could easely find Alexandra, who sat in a quiet corner while reading several papers, mainly about the Veolian history and etiquette at the imperial court. When she noticed Shandryss approaching her, she layed down her papers with a smile and ushered her into a seat close by.

"Miss Shandryss," she said with a soft voice as she didn't want to cause too much disturbance, "thank you for joining me. If it's not to much trouble I would like to ask you some questions as it is not easy to find more information about either my new position within her imperial majesty's retinue or about the Veolian court etiquette and customs.

Suppose I do decide to accept her Imperial Majesty's offer, what would be expected of me and what would be my position within her retinue?"

[Shandryss]

"Do not worry about court etiquette and veolian customs, lady. Personal tutors and trainers will be appointed for such things. And if at any moment someone tries to confuse you, just remember that you are the one who speaks with the my mistress regularly, and in private, and they will most definitely not be able to lay claim to her attention so easily."

Shandryss sat down.

"As to your position, I am not exactly sure what my mistress has told you, but I have been to speak openly about it. The position of nijī prēmikā is usually reserved for young noblewomen that can, for some reason, not take up a position as lady in waiting. Officially, the position isn't that different from the position of lady-in-waiting.

Your responsibilities will include assisting my mistress where she deems your help useful, usually in the area of negotiations, bookkeeping, or household tasks. You can expect to accompany her to parties, when she holds court, and when she travels."

Shandryss bent forward a little, and spoke in a low voice.

"Just between us: I know that most cultures do not share the veolian view on intimacy between close friends or even acquaintances. My mistress asked me to make sure you understood that she had no such expectations, but that others might assume."

Shandryss sat back again.

"Of course, as your position is below that of a lady in waiting, the ladies in waiting will most likely task you with things they want done, but do not wish to do themselves. This is to be expected, but you will only have to tolerate this up to a certain point."

[Alexandra Koniova]

"I see," Alexandra said as she listened to Shandryss' explaination, "I will not worry that much about the customs and etiquette then, my time might be better spend with studying the different noble houses of the Commonwealth and their endeavours. "

She then took a moment as Shandryss explained her duties and implications of her position as a member of the empress' retinue. As Shandryss brought up the subject of the customary Veolian intimacy, Alexandra showed a particular interest, but also signs of relief.

"As to the extend of my duties, her Imperial Majesty has said very little aside from the fact that it would suit my station and would add considerably to my career, especially within the commonwealth. Now I also understand why, thank you."

She merely said, before continuing.

"I would however ask you a small favour, since I have heard my father has requested a meeting with your mistress. It would be wise not to mention the Veolian views on intimacy to him. While my father isn't the smartest person, he would most certainly never permit me to leave, should he as much as hear from such 'events'. He might not seem to care very much about what I do as long as I'm happy and well cared for, but this would not only reflect on my honour as a young lady, but will also have far reaching consequences for my fathers position and reputation."

[Shandryss]

"I can not guarantee that my mistress will not mention it, she might feel the need to be honest about it. I will, however inform her of this."

"There is another matter that needs to be discussed. As I gather, you are currently a member of a committee on the distribution of military budget. Your duties for the empress will most likely take up most of your time, not to mention the fact that travelling between Unity and Mirda takes roughly seven days.

How do you propose to handle this?"

[Alexandra Koniova]

"Ah yes," Alexandra said as Shandryss mentioned her work for the DUMIE committee,

"I have given that some thought and for the moment I am hoping that I can combine my duties for her Imperial Majesty with the limited time the committee requires, if this is not possible I would have little option but to resign my post on the committee. Given the time it takes to travel between Mirda and Union, I would not be able to attend the meetings in person, but I feel that it should also be possible through use of the Holonet.

For the moment I feel that this committee could add to my experience as a member of the corps diplomatique and the interest for military intelligence funding, within the Sundarian Federation, is rather high given our own developments and activities in that area. In that sense it is an important and possibly influential position in either the ministerial affairs or the Sundarian Council.

What is the opinion of her Imperial Majesty in this, does she feel I should keep this position within the committee or.. ?"

[Shandryss]

"She is willing to see how things develop. Be sure not to mistake such willingness for approval, if she thinks it will hinder your position in her retinue, she will make this clear to you very quickly.

Do you wish to know anything else?"

[Alexandra Koniova]

"I'd appreciate a little more information on the ladies and their tasks and positions within her Imperial Majesty's retinue." Alexandra said in response, "At moment all I can gather is just a name and a position, but it would be helpful to know a bit more about the ladies in question, the tasks associated with their positions, and the cultural significance and importance of those position. While I assume that most of the positions will not be much different from the ones known to the Sundarian Nobility, it would be embarrassing to insult or cause offence to those ladies, as my coming there, and my new position, might be cause for concern for some of them."

"Secondly I would like your advice on another matter. As my parents stand to visit the Empress in the Veolian embassy once she returns, they would like to present the Empress with a suitable gift as a token of their gratitude. Could you offer any suggestions as to what might be appropriate for such an occasion?"

[Shandryss]

"If you know a name and a position, you will only need to find out their rank and familial allegiances to determine their importance. For most ladies in waiting your arrival will not cause much concern, they know that your position could not rival theirs. My mistress has instructed me not to inform you of the details regarding the exact relations between the ladies, so she can see how you handle such unknowns.

I can, however, inform you of some things with regards to some of the positions. All ladies are expected to be proficient in the etiquettes, languages, and dances prevalent at court. They perform secretarial tasks, reading to and writing correspondence on behalf of her mistress. As to my mistresses pastime the ladies are expected to know embroidery, painting, horseback riding, music making (vocal and/or instrumental) and my mistress' intimate preferences. But their most important duty is keeping my mistress abreast of activities and personages at court, and discreetly relaying messages upon command."


"Some of the positions add onto these duties, with reciprocal more attention by my mistress. There are some that are very alike those in the Sundarian courts. Positions such as mistress of the hunt, mistress of the horse, and such are alike so I won't waste your time with those. Instead, I will tell you of some of the positions that are less alike those of Sundarian courts."

"The duties of the Mistress of the Robes add wardrobe care and the supervision of servants. The mistress of the robes is also responsible for the correct execution of dressing ceremonies, and for the clothing of my mistress' belongings."

"The duties of the Mistress of the Belongings additionally include supervision of servants; supervision, care and exercise for her mistress' belongings. Whomever holds this position will be held responsible if anything is amiss with me, or my mistress' other slaves. Naturally, this gives me a certain amount of power over her.", Shandryss smiled at the last sentence.

"Then there is the lady of the bedchamber. This position is most likely very different from any position held at the Sundarian courts. As you might be aware of, hemets do not require sleep. This means that they have no use for a bedchamber, other than intimacy. To this end, the duties of the lady of the bedchamber additionally includes massage, bathing ceremonies, medicine, xeno-medicine and other health related proficiencies."

"Next to the normal positions, there are a few junior ladies in waiting. The duties of a junior lady-in-waiting include supporting the other ladies-in-waiting, performing simple tasks on behalf of my mistress. They also act as liaison between my mistress' handmaidens and the ladies-in-waiting. The exact implications of this last duty are up to the handmaidens and the empress."

"I'm afraid I will not be saying any more on the subject. What I have said is already enough to get my mistress very cross with me, should she learn the amount of details I have provided you with."


The human slave again moved a little closer to lady Koniova, clearly making sure that what she said only reached the Sundarian noblewoman.

"Gifts are difficult. My mistress' has little need for material things, as she can acquire most things with ease. This leaves two kinds of things she appreciates as gifts: things she would like but is not aware of, or immaterial things that can not be acquired with money."

"My mistress has a particular fondness for swords of some note, especially if said sword were to hold cultural value. She is mostly interested in the story associated with the blade, but if the blade itself is clearly meant for actual use, she appreciates it so much more.

On the other option I must first issue a word of caution. I understand that in Sundarian culture such would be unthinkable so you have not heard this suggestion from me, as I would not dare to impinge on your family's honour so....

My mistress has also been known to receive an unexpected gesture of intimacy with great fondness and, should your mother be fair, a simple but truly meant kiss on the lips would be a most subtle gift. It is something that truly can not be bought, and it shows your family's understanding and commitment to your new position. Should you suggest this gift to your family, know that my mistress will most likely reciprocate in kind."

Event though she was seated, the human slave looked as if she was actually ready to defend herself from physical retaliation, if her last suggestion offended the lady Koniova in any way. Alexandra somehow had the idea that she was being tested again...

[Alexandra Koniova]

"I appreciate your honesty in this Shandryss," Alexandra answered as Shandryss explained that she had already said more then she was supposed too, "and I will not ask you anything more as I like figuring out the exact relations and social standings myself, but the information you did give will surely help me to place things in perspective."

As she then saw Shandryss move in a little closer, Alexandra shifted her position slightly so the distance between was a bit less and she listened to Shandryss' advice concerning the gifts. As she mentioned the possibility of a kiss and expected to be struck for the suggestion, Alexandra simply said, "Thank you," taking no offence nor feeling the need to strike Shandryss for making the suggestion.

"I will discuss your advice with my mother and we will see what comes of it. Ultimately it will be her choice, but I will make sure that she understands the cultural significance.

Do you or your mistress have any questions for me?"

[Shandryss]

"I have no questions, and at this moment my mistress has none either."

Shandryss stood, and bowed to the sundarian noblewoman.

"Consider your and your family's actions carefully, young lady.", the human slave said as parting words before leaving.

[Alexandra Koniova]

"Thank you Shandryss," Alexandra said, as she saw her guest out. " Might I recommend a strawl through the embassy's gardens, they are very beautiful this time of year."

[Lady Peinaili de Montrève]

Meanwhile the Lady de Montrève and Miss Tayu Shanora walked through the large foyer and took the stairs to the second floor of the Embassy building, which housed the private offices of the Lady de Montrève and her senior staff. As they looked down for the balcony, Shanora could see that the foyer was slowly but surely filling with young ladies of various houses.

" Miss Shanora," Peinaili started after they had sat down in her office with some refreshments, " I've made arrangements so that Mister Pendra will be away for a few days, while we take the time we need to select and interview ladies that are willing to fill the position of special envoy. It proved easier then expected to find young ladies of sufficient station which are willing to explore the Veolian court and join the retinue of the Ambassador and his bethrothed, the young lady Khaw.

How would you like to proceed?"

[Tayu Shanora]

"Interesting."

Tayu Shanora seemed honestly surprised.

"My research on your culture suggested that it would be difficult to find candidates. Are these ladies informed of the fact that those at court will initially see them as mister Pendra's... affaires, for lack of a better word? As I understood it, such a position is seen as undesirable, or even dishonourable, in sundarian culture?"

[Lady Peinaili de Montrève]

"Your research is correct, as that is indeed the case."

Peinaili replied,

"Such an association would indeed be undesirable at best, however it appears that the pull of the Veolian court seems to have a positive effect on this matter. To answer your question, no, we have not informed our candidates of this fact. I felt it would be a good first test to see if the candidates would be suited for the position, I would expect them to have done some research, or at the very least having made some inquiries in the customs at the Veolian Court.

And we also shouldn't forget that this is the first permanent diplomatic assignment to another world, for some of the larger houses this a matter of prestige to be a part of it. I therefore believe that some of the ladies are pressured into this candidacy, while their own feelings on the matter are dismissed in light of a better position for the family."

[Tayu Shanora]

Tayu Shanora closed her fan, and softly put it down on the table.

"Before we begin I have a some questions..."

Shanora politely phrased each question, and waited for lady de Montrevé to answer each before posing the next question.

"First off, it is my understanding that these candidates are here because, publicly, mister Pendra is in dire need of female companionship at the veolian court, while privately, sundarian culture does not offer the option for mister Pendra to actually marry these women. I am here to help you with a preliminary round of selection to winnow down the number of candidates, those who pass will then be presented to mister Pendra and his betrothed as the actual candidates. Is this correct?"

"Have you, or any on your staff, alerted the candidates to my purpose here, or in any way informed them of who I am?"

"What fraction of the current candidates do you wish to pass this first round of select and which noble houses must surely pass this selection, according to you?"

"Will observers, such as yourself or your staff, be present during the entire process or can I speak with each candidate privately?"

"I presume that you have offered each of these ladies a guest suite at your embassy. From the number of ladies in the foyer that there is a certain expectation of immediacy. Do you expect this selection to be done in the span of a few hours, and if so, how many of these ladies could stay for a longer period of time?"

"Are there details about one or more of these ladies that are not mentioned in the documents, but that you deem relevant to the selection process?"

((OOC: I just spotted it now: you use 'Miss Tayu Shanora'; but Tayu is already a title... It makes sense though that Lady de Montrevé isn't aware of this; but those ladies that did their homework very well might know what the title encompasses.))

[Lady Peinaili de Montrève]

" That is the reason I requested your assistance indeed, Her Imperial Majesty and myself thought it prudent to make sure that the candidates would be suitable and your insights and your knowledge of the Veolian Imperial court and the ettiquette might prove a valuable addition."

Peinaili said as she answered the first question posed by Tayu Shanora after which she continued to answer the others.

"No, we have not yet told the candidates of your presence here, but they do know a member from Her Imperial Majesty's retinue has been asked to attended and conduct the interviews. I am unsure if we should tell the ladies any more, I'm that if they so desire they will ask. If you prefer to tell them more about yourself and your duties that would also be fine, I'll leave that up to you."

"While normally it is not uncommon in certain elections to pass some candidates merely on the status of their house and family name, I have decided that in this case we should pick the best candidates for the position and as such none of these ladies get a preferential treatment. Of course should we have a hard time to choose between several candidates, this may be a factor to consider. Since we have 3 positions to fill and I would like to offer Mister Pendra and his fiancée some choice I believe had best selected at least 6 suitable candidates."

"Yes, I will personally be present at each of the interviews since I have a question or two to ask these ladies, furthermore I would like to know what they have to say and learn their reasons of entry. Parts of the interview can also be conducted in private of course, just let me know and I'll make sure that arrangements are made."

"We have offered each of the candidates suited at the Embassy to accommodate them for as long as needed. I feel no need to rush this selection and I would like to do it properly and make sure that we take sufficient time to fairly judge each candidate. For some that may only several minutes, but it may be several days perhaps for others."

"I'm not sure what you mean," Peinail started as she answered the last question, "but I dont believe so. All relevant information should be in the documents, should you require more you can always ask."

[Tayu Shanora]

"Very well. I propose to proceed as follows: today, we shall interview all candidates one by one. I propose that you ask them their reason for entry, and ask them why they are best qualified to join mister Pendra to the Veolian court. This will offer you the opportunity to ask your questions as well. I will be here to observe, and to ask a question or two if I think something deserves elaboration.

After we have done so, I shall retreat to my quarters where I shall familiarize myself with all documents your staff has provided me with."

"Tomorrow, we reconvene, and I shall propose a smaller set of candidate which I hope to speak again. I hope to speak to these ladies alone, as there is a good possibility that your presence might intimidate them. Tomorrow evening I shall host a small get-together with the selected candidates so they can socialize, and offer me an opportunity to observe their behaviour.

The day after tomorrow I will present my final advice to you, and if possible to mister Pendra and his betrothed as well if they are available."

((OOC: Giving you the 'first' round, so you have the opportunity to skip over the candidates that are just filling by only mentioning that 'there were a number of uninteresting candidates in between'))

[Lady Peinaili de Montrève]

"That seems like a sound strategy," Peinaili responded as she prepared to receive quite a bit of young ladies, most of which she would have to disappoint. She however was confident that several suitable candidates could be found. " I will begin in a few minutes."

She then instructed her staff to invite the ladies in, five at a time, for a cup of thea and some refreshments. This was merely for a quick first impression and an acknowledgement to all the ladies present in order to inform them of the procedure. Though it was not mentioned, this also gave both Peinaili and Shanora the opportunity to observe the ladies and judge them accordingly. Peinaili had already shortened the list considerably, as some ladies were either too young, not suitable or just not ready for a position of such importance.

After this first, rather rigorous shifting, the group of eligible ladies was considerably smaller and much more manageable as little more then a dozen remained. In order provide a fair schedule and equal chances for all, with no regards for their rank, Peinaili asked all the ladies to write their names on a piece of paper and put them in a pot. Once they were all in, she shook the pot and took out a first piece of paper.

"Lady Alëana" she said after unfolding the paper, which revealed an elegant handwriting, "If you would please follow me."

As they entered the chamber Peinaili had set up for the interviews, the young lady looked around first and selected a comfortable chair to sit in. Her sense of etiquette was immaculate when it came to manner and conduct, in her choice of attire however Peinaili felt that the young lady had taken some liberties. It suited her, and Peinaili felt this lady was off to a good start.

In the files that had been provided Shanora could find more information about the young lady and her family. It read:

Lady Alëana, second daughter of the Duke and Duchess de Frinezo, is 22 years of age and is well known within the community. She is fond of horseback riding, a sport she has been practising since childhood, dancing and music. Alëana received most of her schooling and education at several well known boarding schools, with the last one offering her a degree in Arts and in Political Science. She currently spends her days teaching the younger children that live at the estate.

Her family is amongst the eldest noble houses that still exist to today and have done well for themselves of the course of the history. Even though their lands and holdings are prosperous and are well managed, their influence has somewhat degraded of the course of the years, as the present Duke rather spends his time working on his lands and estates, then meddle in political affairs and take up an active role in government.

"Lady Alëana," Peinaili said after she had picked up a cup of tea and taken a sip, "Could you tell me why you are here?"

"Most certainly Milady", Alëana said as she set aside her cup of tea and explained why she had come, "After I saw the job opening, I've been doing some research into the Veolian culture and customs, which I must admit are rather intriguing. Their ways are similar and yet so different from ours, I would very much like the opportunity to experience it first hand an.. "

"Slow down young lady" Peinaili interrupted with a smile, as her guest wanted to say more, eager as she was, "I get that this is exiting and all, as are most things for young ladies your age, especially if it involves going far away from home. I assume you do realise the extend to this assignment, and the implications it has, for your.. reputation. You seem like a nice lady, so tell me honestly, why do you want to go?"

Alëana felt rather stumped after Peinaili had just interrupted her well rehearsed text, she seemed to see right through it. "For fun, Milady," she then answered rather plainly, "and because I want to see more of the world and universe then just my family's estate and that of my future husband..."

Peinaili nodded at the honest response and looked towards Shanora, giving her an opportunity to ask a question or two, should she have some.

[Tayu Shanora]

Shanora listened to the young lady, and was a bit surprised when she said she wanted to go 'for fun'. Her honest answer, though appreciated, did not show much finesse in the social area. She would have to keep up appearances of being with mister Pendra, after all.

"Lady Alëana, you said that you did some research into Veolian culture and customs. Could you explain to me how you think those at the imperial court will view you, and why you would make a good member of mister Pendra and lady Khaw's retinue?"

Knowing that she could always talk to the candidates later, she kept it to these two questions.

[Lady Peinaili de Montrève]

" Yes I have," the young lady answered in response of Tayu Shanora's questions, "though I must admit it was not easy, as their is much to learn and not all is written down. From what I can gather, many things evolve around a strict familial agenda and guidelines on one side, to a large dependency on intrigue and close relations on the other side. Now I realise that may sound somewhat vague but it is hard to properly explain, suffice to say appearance and loyalty are incredibly important. In that respect I do not find the Veolian culture so different from the Sundarian.

As to how I think those at the imperial court would think of me, I believe have reasonably good idea. Given the commonwealth's general disposition against men, especially if they are not of noble birth, and that certain level of intimacy are expected between those that work together at court; it would seems that in order for the ambassador to have sufficient status, a level intimacy is expected between him and myself. To put it bluntly, I would be viewed as his mistress or lover."

Her last words came out a bit hesitant as it became clear to her that this truely was what she wanted. She then admitted,

"And to be perfectly honest, I would like that attention.."

She then shifted her position slightly and faked a smile, as she realised that she had just said something more then she should have. She turned her head and looked at Peinaili as she said

"I'm sorry Milady, I don't know why I said that."

She then looked down first, as if she needed to grasp her thoughts for a moment before she looked at Shanora again.

"As for your second question, I think that I would do well and that my education in arts as well politics could prove valuable."

That was all she had to say, and it didn't seem to be making her case, but it was all she could think off. She did not want to seem arrogant and say more, as she realised that she was relatively new to this field of diplomacy and life at the Veolian Imperial court would prove to be a new challenge altogether.

-----

After a short break and a similair selection Peinaili invited the next candidate and offered her some refreshments. As the young lady sat down, she seemed a bit nervous and tone of her voice was soft and tender, but a little hard to hear.

The following information had been put together by Peinaili's staff along with some description of the young lady's past activities and other notable achievements:

Lady Catharina, eldest daughter of the Countessa Lopia, is 25 years old and hardly ever seen outside of her own estates. Since the death of her father and a sudden illness that quells her mother, she has been responsible for running her family's estate and the management of their lands.

Now that her younger sister will get married and plans to continue management of the estates together with her husband, Lady Catharina has been looking for a career outside of the estate, and continue her studies which have been placed on hold.

"Welcome, Lady Catharina ," Peinaili said after she had sat down again. "Tell me, how is your mother?"

The young lady had not expected such a personal question to start of with, but seemed to relax notably.

"She is doing better now, Milady, " She stated, "It seems that the news of my sister's upcoming marriage has had a positive effect. Though it will be a while, we are confident that in time she will recover."

"That is good news," Peinaili responded, "But will you be able to deal with this unfortunate situation, should you be given this position? It is not as if you can visit on regular bases of return at a moments notice..?"

"I will be fine Milady," Catharina said, "besides my sister will take care of her now. It is time for me to move on and get my own life back on track. Even though I have done well in managing the estate and protecting its interests as best I could, I have never enjoyed that much responsibility. I have postponed my studies and my personal life, simply because I had no other choice and it was expected of me.. "

[Tayu Shanora]

This second candidate was, according to Shanora, much to timid. Then again, still waters run deep...

"Lady Catharina, it is very likely that you will be representing mister Pendra's interests, and through them the interests of the Sundarian Federation. Given how view your responsibilities to your family estate, why would you make a good member of mister Pendra and lady Khaw's retinue?"

Again, Shanora kept it short and simple. After all, there were more candidates to interview, and she could easily speak to them at a later moment.

[Lady Peinaili de Montrève]

" Ah yes," Lady Catharina answered Shanora's question, "well perhaps I should elaborate a bit more."

"What I meant to say was that I didn't enjoy the responsibility very much, especially at the beginning. I was just a young girl then at the pressure was rather overwhelming at first. Once I got the hang of it though, I found that I was rather good at it. As I understand it, being a member of mister Pendra and Lady Khaw's retinue does included a certain level of responsibility and requires a certain level of dedication and commitment, but I believe that the two are quite different.

At home I felt alone, as a member of their retinue, I would not have be the only one people would look up to. At home I couldn't ask for help, or point a finger if something went wrong, because ultimately I was responsible anyway; as a member of their retinue however, I can ask others for help and any of my mistakes would ware less on my own conscience..."

The young lady clearly struggled with this matter, it was hard to precisely explain what she meant and she could only hope that Shanora and the Lady de Montrève would understand how different to two things were.

"Besides, I believe I have learned much that can be of value to both the Lady Khaw and mister Pendra. Managing my family's lands has provided me with an insight in many things, especially in the way people get what they want and the extends of which they are willing to go to get it."

----

After the young lady had left the room, Peinaili took a short break for lunch and invited Shanora to join her. Interviewing candidates was a more strenuous task that she had anticipated at first. About an hour later she continued and invited the next young lady to her chambers.

"Lady Daphne, it's is a pleasure finally meet you," Peinaili said as she offered the young lady a seat and some refreshments while taking nothing herself.

Lady Daphne is 22 years old and youngest daughter of Marquess Oronui nèe Plusiron de Lontryue. With her family being one of the wealthiest in land, she and her siblings have become known to be a bit eccentric and most people treat them with care. While in the past the family's money mostly came from the vast lands and their famed stables, their main source of income nowadays are real estate and research. Over the years the family has invested in several large technological firms and played a major part in the housing market. They are also an important benefactor for numerous charities and institutions.

Lady Daphne, like her other sisters, has been giving a substantial stipend at the age of 18 along with several honorary board positions and patronages of several charities, for which she has working ever since. Not much is known about her education as she was home schooled but rumour her main interests lay in fashion and development cooperation.

"The pleasure is mine Milady," Daphne answered politely as she sat down, leaving her tea untouched.

Peinaili smiled at the young lady and remained silent for a moment as she looked at her once more.. finally concluding that the young lady's outfit was beautiful but a bit over the top for her taste, it seemed a bit arrogant.

"Could you tell me why you are here Daphne?" Peinaili then asked, "Because, if I'm completely honest, I don't really see why you would want to go.."

"You are not the first to ask me that Milady," Daphne replied and she seemed a bit offended by Peinaili's statement, "But I'm sick and tired of doing what is expected of me... People often think that, when you have as much money and resources as I do, life is easy and fun."

All of the sudden the young lady wasn't so polite and courteous any more, as if she had been playing a part before.

"In fact my life isn't easy at all, and it certainly isn't as much fun. You know what I would like to do.., I very much like to go Pod racing, or bungee jumping or do something crazy, I'm sure you get the idea; but instead I'm expected to play my part, fake interests and be daddy's pretty, little polite doll, to parade around at parties and events. To be honest, I'm done. I hate parties, I hate charity events and fundraisers, I want to make real difference for once.. and not be treated like porcelain."

[Tayu Shanora]

Tayu Shanora was taken aback by the abrupt outburst of the young lady.

"Don't worry, lady Daphne. Those at court would not treat you like porcelain", a hint of a smile played on the face of the twi'lek. "Such disregard for your family's wishes... Either you are playing your part very well, or you have not done your research at all. Let's find out, shall we?"

The twi'lek girl closed her fan, and put it on the table. Then, with a clear and much less polite tone of voice, she started asking questions.

"Given that you are the descendant of one of the wealthiest Sundarian families, what do you think the initial reaction of the nobles at court would be?"

After waiting for her answer, the twi'lek fired of another question.

"What is the highest duty of a veolian noblewoman, and what does this mean for your attachment to Mister Pendra?"

Making sure Peinaili couldn't see it, but lady Daphne could, the twi'lek woman subtly, but lasciviously, licked her lips in hopes of derailing the train of thought of young sundarian.

"Why should I consider you a candidate for this position if you display such blatant disregard for the desires of your family? Wouldn't you refuse Lady Khaw or Mister Pendra as well?"