Bretonia Rising

[The Kingdom of Bretonia]

Dickins quickly found a steward to care or the Ambassador from Rheinland.

Leaving the steward to point out who each of the guests where, he returned to the front entrance in time for the Gallic Princess' arrival. He explained everything, as instructed, then hesitated before he left

Princess Alice. Lord Jarrow and Fleet Admiral O'Brian are around if you require their assistance. I understand being here may be difficult for you, but Her Majesty's protection extends to you. Any hair harmed, is an assault on Her Majesty the Queen herself. Ask one of the gentlemen situated about the room if you require any assistance. Enjoy your stay.

He made a short bow before returning to the entrance once more to greet Sam Worthington, the representative for Liberty. Quickly assigning a steward to assist the couple, he then moves back to the front doors. Checking the time, it is almost 11. He closes the doors, notifying the guards at the main gates to lock them.

He turns on his heel, heading off towards the reception area again, but turning off to the side. He approaches a room. The ornate, wooden double doors stand before him. He knocks, waiting a second for a guard to open the door.

Your Majesty.

He makes a short bow

Your guests have arrived and are in the reception room.

Thank you Dickins. You may announce my arrival now.

He makes a short bow, followed with a "Yes Ma'am", then moves through a door to the side of the room, leading straight to the reception room. He moves to the front of the throne, clearing his throat. He gains the attention of a few people, and silence fills the room.

Ladies and gentlemen. It is my honour to present to you Her Royal and Imperial Majesty, Queen of the House of Bretonia, Carina the First.

The double doors open for the last time. An assortment of specially chosen Soldiers and Intelligence Agents filing through to make way to the throne. Carina enters, moving gracefully to the front of the room, to her throne. She moves slowly, showing her influence in the proceedings subliminally. As she reaches the front, she rises to the throne, sitting slowly into the high backed masterpiece.

To my loyal Bretonian subjects, and friends to our great house. I thank you, one and all, for attending tea with me on this fine day. Some of you may wonder why you are here, and all of you are unaware of your involvement in the proceedings of this meeting. Know that I have invited you here, because each and every one of you is important to Bretonia, and to me. Your involvement with Bretonia, be it through military might, or economical stability, or even support in the darkest of times. Know that none of it has gone unnoticed, and I commend each of you for your work and support over the years.

She pauses, looking at each of the guests and their company.

I did not gather you here today to speak of the war, not on this scale. I have an announcement for the future of Bretonia that will lead us into a new, stronger age.

Bretonia is with a strong leadership at this time. We have a strong government to lead us, an unflinching military, an unrelenting police force, and a knowledgeable intelligence service. Without these, I would fear for the safety of my people. However, times change, and so do the situations we find ourselves in. Just like the Kings and Queens of Bretonia before me, I will be succeeded. I have no children, thus no obvious heir. This cannot continue.

Another pause, looking towards Firmus and James

James Frederick Albert William Piett, step forward.

The young man looks confused. He steps forward, bowing, adding a quick "Your Majesty?"

James Frederick Albert William Piett. I have been watching you and your actions. You have grown as a man. You still have a way to go, but I am pleased with your progress.

It is my decision that you should become my successor. You mother, as my cousin, has provided you with the blood of the royalty, making you a perfect candidate. I, Queen Carina the First, Monarch of the Kingdom of Bretonia, bestow upon you, James Frederick Albert William Piett, the title of Prince of Bretonia. You will become my heir, and when the time comes, will gain the responsibility of guiding our great house to even greater times.

James' mouth opens. He looks around, confused at first, then realising it is truly him. Dickins invites him over to Carina's side. He stands, dumbfounded, looking at the people waiting expectantly.

I... I uh...

He stops, taking a deep breath to compose himself, before looking out to the crowd. With a small smile, he speaks

Thank you, your majesty. It is my honour to receive such a high commendation from you. I graciously accept your offer, and pledge to do my best, for Bretonia, and our people.

He bows, still looking a little confused. There is a round of applause from the crowd. As it dies down, Carina speaks once more.

To my guests, I invite you to dine with me. I will speak to a few, individually, momentarily.

She stands, moving to the banquet room. The guards allow her in, before moving to allow the other guests to follow behind her.

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