SoS B1 C2 X1: Apologies
Allarah and Ulysses departed while the others were changing into their finery. She managed to use her rough Russian to get directions from the guards, who were pleasantly surprised she spoke their language. It was dark now, and the grounds were lit by bright torches with strange, mute flames that danced and swirled jubilantly. Many other guests had arrived--other nobles of Saumai--and were milling around the grounds and gardens before the feast began.
The crowd parted, soft gasps rippling through them. Five Sazashi had just stepped out of the landing area, dressed in tailored raiments somewhere between robe and suit, all a shade of slate with splashes of color woven into the faint patterns on the brocade and stiffened shoulders. Holograms flickered around them, matching the colors on their clothes. The Parisan wore gold, the Ka red, the Aen blue, and the Ral-Mi and the Nasyk wore different shades of green. To everyone else they seemed to be a spectacle.
The Somnolent envoy stood off to the side, unimpressed. Even out of his armor, Dmitry was easy to spot -- he had the expression and posture of someone whose body was too big for his skin. Next to him was the other IreHeart--blonde and statuesque with a serene expression. Their leader stood before them. The other two weren’t anywhere to be seen.
Allarah herself was the picture of Verin Hamiarchy as she approached the Somnolent envoy, serene as stone. She bowed her head as a show of respect. "We did not meet under the most favorable of conditions. I conducted myself poorly, and I hope that you will accept my most sincere apology. I was wrong to confront you, and I take full responsibility for my comrades actions." The words tasted like acid in her mouth, but she found they flowed smoothly. Looking into both of their eyes in turn, she awaited their response. Dmitri froze and stared. The muscles in his jaw palpably clenched. Their leader smiled and inclined his head amicably.
"Understandable. My cohort said some incendiary things and so your response was to be expected. We'll see that he stays his tongue so long as you stay yours."
His expression faltered, then returned. "Sorry, habits die hard. On behalf of me and mine: I apologize. As does Dmitri, don't you?" He looked to Dmitri, who did not respond except to glare at Allarah and Ulysses. The blond Ireheart placed his hand on Dmitry's shoulder, his serene expression remained unchanged.
"I apologize," Dmitri said. He practically gagged on the words.
"I thank you for being so understanding." She extended her hand slowly toward the leader. "I am Allarah. I don't believe I caught your name in the commotion." She waited politely, hand outstretched.
He grasped her hand and inclined his head. "Tyodor," he said. "It's been a pleasure, despite everything. As always, I look forward to seeing what The Federation brings to the table."
Ulysses stood at full attention "The blame isn’t entirely on her." He stuck out his hand as well, edging as far as he could manage between the Faeo and his fellow Sapian. "Name’s Ulysses. My actions also led to that quarrel. I should have better control over my anger, and for that I am deeply sorry."
Tyodor inclined his head and smiled, accepting the handshake. "A strong name for a man of strong will and strong opinions. I like you," he said, chuckling. "No need to apologize for your rage, Ulysses. IreHearts are passionate. Perhaps you and Dmitri could spar in a more calm setting sometime." He patted Ulysses shoulder.
“I would like that. I got to say, though, your man looks like he can take a hit. I would love to see what he could do in a brawl. Been sometime since I’ve had a good sparring partner, and those two look like they can give me quite a run for my money."
Tyodor smiled wider in that smug way of his at Ulysses words. “That certainly is one way of putting it.”
Allarah took Ulysses’ arm gliding hers just under his elbow in a practiced way. “Thank you for hearing us out. It is my hope that we continue to have peaceful relations from here forward. If you’ll excuse us.” She turned, guiding them over to the tables after nodding once more at Tyodor. She was lightly aware this action would have consequences regarding the newly arrived Sazashi, and only hoped that they could rectify the situation and assure the Sazashi that they were not Somnolent allies.
It did not allay Allarah's concerns that the Somnolent and the Federation were seated face to face at one of the foremost honors tables at the feast.
There were two rows of tables in the Great Hall, each fifteen feet long, seating five to a side. The two tables closest to the Lady's were populated with the Somnancy, the Federation, the Syndicate (which had arrived in the nick of time), and Hedon. A row back from them, as far as one could manage from the Somnancy, was the pact. If they were bothered by this setup, they didn't show it, and also ignored the stares of the other partygoers.
Aside from those within the envoys, there was not a non-Sapien to be seen.
The dinner proceeded in comfort. There wasn't much to say for it. All manner of food came and went, all of it a banquet for the tongue but damnation for the stomach. Veggies, fruits, meats, drinks, and desserts all went marching over tongue and down gullet.
Lady Venistasia had given a lovely (if short) welcoming speech before dinner, and until the plates were cleared she did not address them again. They'd come to learn later that on Saumai it was rude to the chef to discuss business over food, at least before the washdown.
The washdown was something sweet and refreshing, the sort of confection which bade the belly to make just a smidgen more room for it.
While they were enjoying it and chatting amongst themselves, Lady Venistasia stood. The room fell silent, though even if there had been a chorus her voice would've carried preternaturally through the massive hall.
"Welcome, again, envoys of the Banners!"
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