Pastorale

[Holy Frankish Empire]

San Salvo

Prince Felix fidgeted in his seat as the aircraft finally arrived at the airport. October in San Salvo was warmer than Brno and Felix despised the heat. He in fact liked the cold. Despite being warmer, it was still 16 centigrade and very comfortable. It was only 9 centigrade in Brno. Felix enjoyed fall in Karlovia. The trees and their color, the smells of fall, and the blanketed carriage rides made it his favorite time of year. Felix sighed as he bit into a piece of dark rye toast and looked out the airplane window as it taxied.

He had served as ambassador in San Salvo but had never grown fond of the country. It had nothing to do with politics or culture, he just preferred home better. He had grown tremendously found of Potenza's people. He had made friends and it had been 6 years since he was last here. He hoped the city had not changed much as he still had some favorite restaurants and friends that had lived there. He had met even a yong countess that he had struck a brief friendship with. She had been 21 and he was quite taken with her, despite meeting her only briefly. Prince Felix adjusted his tan uniform which identified him as a brigadier general of the artillery corps. He quickly combed over his light brown hair and checked it in the mirror. His finely manicured mustache was a bit shabby but he would have to adjust it at another time. The plane came to a rest as a set of stairs pulled up to the cabin door. Felix was on a state visit to see the Grand Duke but he was also visiting as a short vacation. He gathered his small briefcase and nearly snarled as an aid, hurrying to get off the plane, bumped into him. Felix was a moody individual at times and being stuck on an aircraft did not help.

Soon, Felix hoped that at least one of his endeavors would result in a personal victory.

 

[Potenza]

Once Prince Felix had stepped out, he was greeted by a line of Carabinieri. At once a sergeant shouted:

"OCCHI...DESTRA!"

The state police of the Grand Duchy were in their parade regalia, with flowing capes and swords at their side with freshly shined scabbards. At once they turned and saluted in the direction of the Karlovian prince. At the very end of the line stood Count Niccolo di Grimaldi, in the traditional green uniform of the Grimaldi house, the badges of the Grimaldi House and his position as Count of Turin on his sash. As Felix made his way down the steps and towards Count Niccolo and the dark limo that was behind him, each Carabinieri would turn their gaze towards him and follow his movements, staring forward and standing at attention once he had gone by.

"Welcome to the Grand Duchy, your highness," Niccolo began, holding out his hand, "we are happy to please you. His Royal Majesty sent me to greet you and escort you to the palace. Please, have a seat."

A Carabinieri lieutenant flanking the count opened the door to the limo and saluted as Felix entered and sat down. Niccolo followed suit, the door closing behind the two. Around the limo were a dozen motorcycle Carabinieri, who were likewise in fine regalia minus the cloak and swords. Once the lieutenant gave the signal, they started their engines and began to escort the limo out of the airport tarmac and onto the roads, heading towards the grand ducal palace that rested on the south end of San Salvo.

"Potenza has changed a bit since you last came," Niccolo continued as they rode through the streets, the occasional honk of a motorcycle heard as it demanded people clear the way, "we have a new Grand Duke, a new ruling house, the economy is doing far better, and our military is deployed in other lands. There is great progress on all fronts. Still, I think you will find the overall personality of the nation to your liking."

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Felix raised an eyebrow. He recalled having met Count Niccolo at some function but he could not remember where. There were so many engagements for nobility that Felix had attended over the years he sometimes lost track. Felix appraised Niccolo and recalled liking the man when he had met him. " I look forward to seeing the changes. I most look forward to the company and the people of this country. I have fond memories of this place" said Felix peering out the window as the vehicle slowly made its way to his hotel. Felix had rented an entire floor of the hotel for the trip. His small staff of 4 would occupy other rooms. He had stayed there while the ambassador's residence was renovated when he was ambassador. He sighed as the vehicle passed a small car accident, the drivers arguing fiercely. He smiled discreetly as two buxom women walked past the car wearing clothing that had not yet quite become popular in Karlovia due to the cultural conservatism in much of the land.

Felix became unsure if he would be taken straight to a meeting or if he would be attending a meal or if he would be taken straight to the hotel. Felix remembered his last few days that he had been here. He remembered the smells of the streets, the people, the wonderful accents they would have when they spoke German. His English was bad and he had never quite learned the language here. He knew only the smallest number of words and his biggest accomplishment had been ordering a coffee and a roll. Felix glanced at Niccolo and shrugged to himself. Felix was unsure if Niccolo would mind him smoking. It was becoming a small trend to disdain smokers these days. Even more than before. Felix pulled a silver cigarette case from his breast pocket and pulled a short cigarette from it, the tip lined with a thin golden plastic, lighting it with a match. Normally he smoked a pipe but he chose not to bring it on this trip. he exhaled the smoke as he cracked the window, waiting to arrive.

 

[Potenza]

Perhaps to Felix's surprise, as soon as he took out a cigarette, Niccolo reached into a cabinet in the limo and pulled out a cigar that had been made in the tobacco fields of Venosa. He took a cutter that was likewise in the compartment, cutting off the end and lighting up a cigar. The count struck a match, letting it burn the edge as he began to puff away, enjoying the taste of the fine tobacco rolling across his tongue.

"The palace has not changed much," Niccolo began to say, "although a few items from the Torriani's original location in Venosa have been moved. His Royal Majesty was rather adamant about this statue of the goddess Athena." He puffed on the tobacco, smiling a little before adding, "Incidentally, I don't know how well you remember Guido III when he was merely a count, but no matter how much trouble he may have with his one leg, never offer him any help. He will slap your hand away, be you a peasant or the Lord Himself."

The limo intentionally took a rather scenic route. The car crash had been unexpected, but everything else was going according to plan. They rode on a bridge over the river that gave a spectacular view of the Ponte Vecchio, San Salvo's famous bridge that had been used for local markets and businesses since the middle ages. After this, they turned south, heading towards the palace, their first stop. Felix's staff would be taken to the hotel ahead of time to prepare for his coming, but for now, Felix would be shown the new Grand Duchy.

They arrived at the palace outside the front gates, with the Carabinieri taking positions about the limo. A lieutenant stepped forward, opening the doors and going into salute. The Grand Duke's personal guard - the Scorta - opened the front gates and went into a salute as well. The Turinese count placed the little remains of his cigar into the limo's ash tray and stepped out, nodding to the Carabinieri officer and motioning for Felix to follow him. The two royals stepped through the two front gates, the Scorta shutting it after them.

At once Felix was greeted to the site of the palace. Little had it changed since those so many years ago, save for the banners of the Torriani House, which draped over some of the windows outside. Niccolo stepped up to the front door, and a Scorta opened it, saluting the two royals.

"He's waiting for us in the study," Niccolo said, "This way, please, your royal highness."

It wasn't long before a trip down the hall brought them to the study. As the count had promised, there was Grand Duke Guido III della Torre, seated in a plush chair with his good leg crossed over his fake one, his hands outstretched and resting on the head of the exquisite cane the Grimaldi House had given him. Most noticeably, behind the chair stood a great bronze statue of the goddess Athena, holding her shield and spear, her feminine eyes looking up as if searching for something. Guido himself was not engaged in any action other than sitting, as if he had spent hours simply thinking and pondering to himself. Once the two men entered, he looked up and smiled. Count Niccolo was the first to speak:

"His Royal Highness, Prince Felix. Your highness, His Royal Majesty, Grand Duke Guido III."

Guido leaned forward, putting his good leg forward and tilting his cane. With some difficulty he managed to push himself up, getting on both feet and stepping forward, coming to Felix and holding his hand out:

"Good to see you again, Prince Felix. It's been a long time. Last we saw one another, we were both younger and I suppose less in rank. I pray that Fortune has been kind to both of us since then. Please, have a seat, we are all equals here."

Guido moved back to his chair, sitting down. Count Niccolo waited for both Guido and Felix to sit before he himself sat in a love seat near the Grand Duke. Ever since Guido's appointment by the Chamber of Ministers, the two men had been close to each other. In Guido, Niccolo saw true leadership and strength, as opposed to the perceived weaknesses and foppishness in the former Grand Duke, Eldizio di Visconti; Guido relied on Niccolo for his political expertise, and indeed it was he who wrote most of Guido's speeches, including his weekly radio address to the nation.

"The Visconti no longer live here," Guido explained, "I sent them out. They're in Venosa now. Many of us Torriani are there as well, actually - they don't want to leave the beautiful vineyards and hills of the Duchy of Venosa for the hub bub of San Salvo. The only Torriani in this building are myself and my sister, the Countess Francesca. I believe you remember? She has become much more a woman than when you last saw her."

A young, thin maid wearing a rather 19th century uniform came in with a wheeled tray, three cups of tea on the top. She lifted them one at a time, handing them to the three men. Niccolo nodded and waved his hand, and she bowed before taking the tray and departing.

"Now then," continued Guido, sipping his tea a moment, "I believe you are here on business, Prince Felix?"

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Felix fidgeted in his seat at the mention of Francesca. He remembered her as a lovely young thing with alluring eyes. “Yes, I recall having met her acquaintance. I am fortunate to have made her acquaintance and I hope to see her”. Felix’s eyebrow rose approvingly at the maid in the 19th century costume. He enjoyed the time period as an avid historian aside from the fact it was perhaps Karlovia’s only modern golden era. He gently sipped his tea and uncrossed his legs, carefully observing the room he was in. He was unsure how he felt about the carefully kept chamber. He was lost in his thoughts on the room when he became aware that the Grand Duke had asked him a question.

“Yes sir. I have the pleasure of acting as Karlovia’s top diplomat; one of the few duties a monarch maintains in my country. I am to try to accomplish what an ambassador may not be totally able to. I am meant to be…” he paused searching for the right word. “I am meant to be a little more effective than some in foreign service. I am permitted the appointment of 3 ambassadors per election; another of my privileges. I swear to you that each of these appointees are the most competent. Regrettably, I did not send one of my appointed here” said Felix with a frown. Felix finished the tea in a large gulp out of thirst rather than nervousness. He realized his gulping could have been interpreted as nerves at this moment in the conversation but decided his reputation of overconfidence had possibly preceded him.

“You see, Karlovia is a neutral country and by population standards a small one. We must rely on diplomacy to see us through storms. It is our lighthouse. That is why I have come here. I have not been sent but have come on my own accord gentlemen” said Felix, speaking to both of them. “Karlovia wants a working relationship with all nations. I am not here to pave the road but to offer a road map”.
Felix put down the empty tea cup. Frowned at his own words. Felix was a maverick at self deprecation; constantly criticizing himself. He did not like his choice of words but had to press on. “All Karlovia wants is continued friendship” he said quietly and with a genuine smile.

Felix wondered if he would see Francesca during this trip; hoping he would. He had convinced himself that it was really a state visit on diplomatic importance but he knew part of the trip was to see her. He fetched another cigarette and cursed not having brought his pipe. The heavy smoke from the fine tobacco wafted around him as he realized he had no ashtray. He glanced at the tea cup but shuttered at the thought of using it. "Do you have an ashtray perhaps?" asked Felix coldly.

 

[Potenza]

The Grand Duke nodded, listening quietly as the Karlovian prince spoke. Count Niccolo kept his gaze down, but was listening to everything said and done between the two men, only intending to step in when he believed it was necessary. At the request of an ash tray, Guido said, "Yes, we do, actually." He reached over, taking a nearby ash tray from the nearby counter top, handing it over to Count Niccolo who took it and handed it over to Felix.

"The Grand Duchy is not a militant nation," the Grand Duke said, "we take pride in our armed forces, but you'll find we're not interested in flexing them as certain nations in the world are. Carentania threatened war with me, and I shrugged their threats off with offers of diplomatic unity. Potenza would rather be friends with another nation than enemies. If Karlovia intends peace, Potenza intends peace as well."

It was then that a new sound was heard. The familiar click-clack-click-clack of high heels on marble floor. They started softly and then began to increase their echo as they drew closer to the room.

"Hmm," Guido said, "I think that's my sister."

It was then that a feminine form moved around the doorway, coming into the room. It was a tall woman with somewhat tan skin and dark eyes like a dove. Her hair was done up in a bun behind her head, and her lips were painted a soft hue of red. She was wearing a tight fighting purple dress with puffed shoulder pads and a low v-neck cut, which pressed her beasts together in a rather obvious display. Ruffles shot out just under the curve of her spine, adding decoration to the back of of her long skirt. Her dark eyes trailed among the three men, resting finally on Felix, and her lips pursed in a soft grin.

"Francesca," said Guido, "please, come in and greet our guest. Your Royal Highness, please meet Her Royal Highness, the Countess Francesca della Torre.

Francesca stepped forward slowly, tilting her body at an angle as if to give the prince a better view of her profile, holding her gloved hand out, "Your Royal Highness...it's been a long time."

It had been a long time, nearly five years. Even then, Francesca was a fairly matured young woman, though of smaller stature and more awkward shape, having yet fully become a woman. She was just then learning the habits of court and how to handle herself as an adult, though now she was very adept at handling the manners of court and...other matters entirely. She vaguely remembered Felix, although she remembered, at that time, as a young lady, having a small crush on him. At that time the Torriani were a lesser house, and the Visconti were the family more desired by foreign royalty. How times had changed since then.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Felix almost frowned at the display Francesca put on. The outfit was less conservative than almost anything at court in Brno. Felix smiled back in time to not seem rude and once he averted his gaze from he dress, he locked eyes on her smile and the sparkle in the dark eyes; he was taken aback by her beauty. He politely rose and bowed slightly and kissed her hand. "It certainly has been quite some time. You are well I trust" asked Felix seating himself once again in an effort to not seem to anxious. Felix crossed his legs and sat back. "Madam I must say it is an utter pleasure to see you again. Perhaps you and your brother would attend the opera with me tomorrow night?" asked Felix.

Felix himself often made plans while traveling. For many, this was an eccentricity in royal circles. Felix always ensured the majority of evenings he traveled were open and rarely planned more than one night for himself. "I took the liberty of reserving a box for Fidelio. If you have plans I will fully understand" said Felix, looking at the pair. Felix turned to the Grand Duke and bowed from his seat, "I would be most happy if you were in attendance" said Felix, not wanting to invite him. Etiquette dictated the Grand Duke must be invited and Felix genuinely was growing to like the man; but he would have much time this day and the next to discuss true business.

 

[Potenza]

The countess couldn't help but smile a little more when she saw the prince was clearly embarrassed by her dress. Count Niccolo likewise was often disgruntled by it, and his own face and grimaced when she walked in. She was an embarrassment to him - Niccolo was of the mind that a woman should be the role model for the women of Potenza. Francesca, in his mind, was a whore, and didn't do much with foreign policy except confirm the stereotype that Potenzan women were voluptuous, oversexed sluts. To the countess, however, it was more a matter of enjoying men in the same manner one might enjoy wine. Her brother explored politics and delved into political intrigue the way one dives into a pool...Francesca preferred to dive in and enjoy the bedchamber. She did not hand herself over to just any man - in fact, she had often spurned many male suitors for either being too eager or too pressing. She refused to be treated like a courtesan or a bar floozy. If a man sought to enjoy her, he would have to earn it.

Felix, however, stood in her mind different than most men. She had remembered seeing him when he was younger, and how, in her slightly more "girly" state, she had felt a slight crush on him. He seemed so much more refined and...perhaps for a lack of a better word...manly than most Potenzan men. There was something rugged with the Karlovians that Francesca admired. So when she had heard that he was coming to visit the Grand Duchy, she put it into her mind to see him again, and see if he had changed. As it was, he hadn't changed much at all...and her wearing the dress was all part of the plan to attract her attention. When he stood up to kiss her gloved hands, she curtsied for him...a rather deep bow, as if to give him a better and unintended view of that which he desired not to see.

"Ah, Fidelio," Guido said, smiling, "yes, Frankish opera, where the woman is trying to get her husband out of prison. It would give the Carabinieri a nightmare if I asked for protection on such short notice...but I think my sister would enjoy attending."

"Fidelio..." Francesca said in a soft, breathy voice. She turned to Felix, looking at him with her dark eyes, smiling a little more broadly and adding, "I'm not certain, your highness...I'm afraid I wouldn't be certain what to wear. And such short notice...I will give you the answer of a possibility. Why don't you go with Count Guido?"

Of course, she fully intended to go...but she wasn't going to make Felix's offers easy. She intended to toy with him. She was the desired prize, she knew - and she was going to make herself a prize worth winning. She would only give him enough of a taste before he truly desired to swallow.

Count Guido, of course, knew exactly what she was doing...and he felt it better he go so that he made certain nothing happened that would offend the honor of the Grand Duke during these volatile times. "Yes," the Grimaldi nobleman said, "yes, your highness, I'd love to attend with you. I have a soft spot for opera...and if her royal highness chooses to join us, well..." the next few words were obviously forced. "...the better."

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Felix, undeterred, smiled and adjusted his uniform jacket. The tan colored artillery uniform was not flashy but was specially tailored for the Prince so unlike regular uniforms, it fit him smartly. Felix spoke with clearly mischevious tone, "Madam, while I certainly understand it is short notice; am I not the guest? Does one turn down the invitation of a monarch?" asked Felix with a grin. Before anyone could respond, Felix continued, "well it is decided madam. You shall attend Fidelio. I will wear one of my finer uniforms. You will forgive me for leaving other finer clothes at home. I had not planned for such company. I should have" said Felix with a grimace.

The Prince turned to the Grand Duke, "When my business here is concluded, feel free to visit Brno at any time. I will make my summer palace completely at your disposal" said Felix calmly. "Its a more subdued home but I have my own apple orchard and I used to get my own honey. It is quite a beautiful home. The land used to be larger but it has grown smaller over time. You see, over the years, my people have seen it fit to take away much from the nobility. Now my country is a humble nation. Just a century and a half ago, our armies could defeat the great armies of Wiese. 80 years ago we became a manufacturing force. Now, we are merely content with having our heads above water" said Felix sighing. "There is nothing wrong with humble though. It earns our people a peaceful life; something many others should aspire to" finished Felix, fishing out his lighter and lighting another cigarette. "I don't mean to drone on. We are not the most prosperous country but our land is truly among the most beautiful. It would be an honor for the people of Karlovia to have you visit some day"

 

[Potenza]

Francesca raised her eyebrow at the prince's response. He was obviously persistent...and there was much to be admired in that. She gave a half smile and replied, "As you said, then...I shall attend Fidelio."

"And I would be more than happy to visit your summer home," Guido said to the prince, "I've had a soft spot lately for honey. Besides, I don't think I've been to Karlovia. In any case, I hope you won't find it rude if I depart for now. I have some matters with the Ministry of Defense over this Solaren affair."

The Grand Duke placed both feet on the ground and leaned forward, supporting himself on the cane as he tried to lift himself up. For a moment it seemed as if he was going to tumble over, and Count Guido held a hand up to remind Prince Felix not to try to help him. The Torriani nobleman quickly recovered and managed to get up on his feet. As soon as he did, Count Guido stood up as well, and bowed a little as Guido went by.

"Good day to you all," the Grand Duke said, waving his hand as he moved out of the room, "we will continue later on, Prince Felix."

"Please follow me," said Count Guido, moving forward and putting his gloved hand on Prince Felix's back, giving him a slight push as he moved him out of the room. This sudden action was clearly intended to separate Felix from Francesca, as if the count moving between the two wasn't a sign enough. It made the countess purse her lips in a sly smile, and doing another curtsy as Felix left, calling out:

"Good evening to you, Prince Felix. I shall see you tonight..."

As soon as they were going down the hall, towards the front doors of the palace, Guido said to Felix in a quiet voice:

"Be careful with that woman. She is a dangerous one. La bocca delle donne corrotte è una fossa profonda; chi subisce l’ira del Signore vi cadrà dentro.* I would highly suggest you shy away from her, your highness. She will either break your heart, or give you a fleeting moment of joy and toss you aside. Whatever you may remember less than a decade ago, that young girl is no longer there. She has become addicted to the darker side of court life, and will see to it you become trapped in it as well...if you permit it from her."

-----------

* Proverbs 22:14

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Felix affixed the dark green uniform jacket, placing the silver buttons through the delicate hoops. He had considered his hussar uniform but discarded it. For him, it was too flashy and had far too much gold. His dark green jacket, in 19th century style, was studded with two and a half vertical rows of silver buttons, widely spaced. Around his waist the tied a faded yellow sash and across that he tied a sword belt. On the bed was laying a sword, fitted with a silver hilt and guard and a small golden button. He grimaced at it and shrugged and waved a hand at the sword, deciding to leave it on the bed next to the hat. The hotel room was not the most elegant compared other rooms he left to his staff. Felix's room was still far from simple. He had stayed in the room when he was ambassador and grew fond of the hotel. The place posed its own issues. While his own two bodyguards were the primary security on the floor, he knew the Carabinieri were waiting downstairs in the lobby to escort him. The government had given him and his staff two cars and his escort would doubtless have several vehicles of their own. Felix summoned his bodyguards, having to wake one due to the bodyguards were serving on 12 hour shifts. He looked down at his watch- 6:51. The opera began at 8. He paused in front of his two bodyguards, one still visibly groggy from being awoken from his slumber.

Felix sent the tired bodyguard to the lobby to inform the escort that he would be down in 15 minutes. The second the bodyguard stepped on the elevator, Felix and his favorite bodyguard, Josef, stepped onto the service elevator taking it down to the laundry. They received a stare of curiosity from every laundry worked as they shuffled past laundry bins and presses. Felix guessed it would take the Carabinieri at least a half hour to realize what had happened. He figured it would take him 15 minutes to get to the opera. He sighed as he ascended steps in the back of the laundry that went to street level. Felix peeked out, Josef behind him. The alley was empty. Felix gestured for Josef to follow and the two stepped out to the street. Josef hailed a cab as Felix buttoned his great coat to cover the uniform. Within minutes, the two arrived at the opera house. Felix handed the driver a fairly large tip and exited the cab. He lit a cigarette and stood in front of the opera house's steps. He made small talk with Josef as other guests walked by, heading to find their seats or to mingle. They waited.

 

[Potenza]

It wasn't long before Count Niccolo arrived, wearing the usual Grimaldi uniform. He was accompanied by a young man in a black uniform that seemed like a hybrid between a Potenzan army officer's dress uniform and the Carabinieri garments.

"Your highness," Niccolo said, taking Felix's hand and shaking it, smiling. The count motioned to the man in uniform behind him, "This is the captain of my Scorta - he will just be here to make certain we are all right."

No one else showed up - not even Francesca. The manners of being a gentleman commanded Niccolo to leave a chair beside Felix empty, expecting the countess to show up, while he himself sat in the seat behind her. The opera was already beginning, and yet she was not here. Niccolo winced a bit, feeling sorry for the prince, as it was becoming clear he was being, as they said, "stood up." It was also embarrassing for the count because, if this was the case, it meant the countess had chosen to insult a foreign dignitary. This would prove an embarrassment to her brother as well as the Grand Duchy as a whole.

It was then, a few minutes after the opening act, that Guido overheard his captain speaking with someone...someone with a feminine voice. The Grimaldi count turned and saw the Countess Francesca della Torre making her appearance at long last. She was wearing a strapless black dress with a neckline that plunged down (a typical move for her, the count thought). She brushed by Niccolo, completely ignoring him, and went to Felix. She knelt down, kissing him on the cheek by surprise, and whispering in his ear as she hunched over, giving him a rather obvious chance to gander, "My apologies, my prince...traffic held us up from the palace."

She sat back down, and Prince Felix could see black gloves over her arms, with a white plume fan in her hands. She unfolded it, holding it out towards those in other balconies, starting to wave it. It seemed rather strategically placed...as if she was quietly saying no one could take glances at her - and enjoy the curves of her body - except the Prince Felix.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Felix had initially been worried that she will not have shown up. He showed no sign of his worry other than his hasty reading of the program for the evening. He had made an effort to reserve his favorite box, box 5, and was pleased to have been able to reserve it. Felix had made some small talk with Niccolo before the opera had begun. Felix debated stepping into the hall to enjoy a cigarette, noting it was in poor taste to smoke outside of the hallways and the refreshment areas. He decided against it as he did not wish to make the necessary small talk to kill the silence if there was a stranger in the hall. Felix was allowing, perhaps willing, the idea that he had been stood up to fade from his mind. He intensified his political discussion with Niccolo and was quite deeply involved in the discussion of the gold standard when the lights began to dim.

Felix had watched with tension as the first act began to play out. Felix was caught unaware when Francesca entered. He was aware somebody had entered the box but had assumed it was either a box attendant or a bodyguard. He was surprised when he saw that Francesca had indeed come to the opera. Felix greatest pet peeve was tardiness. He could not stand being late and was slightly less annoyed when other people were. From the corner of his eye he admired her beauty. She was certainly an impressive woman. He again almost frowned at the state of her clothing. It wasn't that he didn't appreciate her body; far from that. It was too liberal for his tastes. But he liked her. He watched the opera, thinking on Guido's warning. He remembered Francesca as a bright girl. He would have to speak to her more. He had to know what this warning meant. Perhaps they did not want Felix interested in the girl...Was it him? His nation's policies? He waited for intermission.

 

[Potenza]

Aside from the fanning, Francesca did little else that might be perceived as flirtation or seduction. She actually seemed to be enjoying the opera quietly to herself. Perhaps she was...and in truth, she was. She actually had a quiet spot for the opera, and went frequently. She had especially gone recently with her sister-in-law Giovanna (mostly because Guido had quite literally ordered his sister to be nice to the stuttering Visconti countess), and most who worked at the San Salvo Royal Opera House recognized her.

"Sylvana Bussotti plays Leonore," Francesca said, before Felix could begin conversation himself, "she has a lovely soprano voice, don't you believe?" She turned her dark eyes to Felix, and for the first time she appeared...normal. Her eyes were fully open, not half-opened as they often were, and there was an excited gleam in her eye. In a way, her demeanor had become one of a little child talking about a favorite subject, rather than the seductress most knew her as, even though her voice maintained a certain level of calmness and assurance. "She was Donna Anna in the recent production of Don Giovanni. Giuseppe Lolli was Don Pedro in that, he plays Rocco here. Oh, when he came in at the end, I felt a shrill go up my spine!"

Count Niccolo, sitting behind the countess still, suddenly cleared his throat and stood up, "I'm going to enjoy a cigar on the landing outside." He made his way through the nearby curtains, disappearing in a quick movement. His Scorta captain remained in the balcony, staring forward like a statue. Suddenly, like something out of a comedy movie, Niccolo's arm shot through the opening in the curtains, grabbed the captain by the jacket, and pulled him out of the balcony.

The countess glanced back briefly at Niccolo's departure, then turned to look out a the hundreds of people moving about the seats below. She seemed lost in thought for a moment, letting out a little sight. Her black hair was done up in a bun as it was before, only with more elaborate curls. A single lock suddenly fell, wandering down the side of her head until it rested over one eye.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Felix glanced at the stage. Jaquino had just begged Marzelline to marry him. Felix was facing the stage but out of the corner of his eye he intently watched the beautiful woman sitting next to him. Felix, when it came to women, was desperately stubborn when it came to women. He had followed women down roads only to find himself stranded numerous times. He clumsily reached out and tucked the strand of hair back into place. She turned, her face dimly illuminated by the light from the stage and he smiled gently at her. The act ended and the short intermission began, the lights in the house coming up. Felix turned to Francesca, smiling gently again. "Madam, I would hope you will forgive me. I realize this may be short notice again, but I have decided to extend my visit a few more days. While I have not discovered any more leisure plans, I hope I may call on you to join me again. Perhaps just you and I for dinner?" said Felix quietly. She did not respond immediately as the same strand of hair again fell. Felix reached out and tucked it back, hoping for a sign.

 

[Potenza]

The mention of an extended stay brought a flutter to the Potenzan woman's tummy. Surely there had been something to make him want to stay, and the request for dinner alone suggested that the main reason was her. There was something strange and tender about the request, and for the first time in a while, Francesca felt like a young girl in school, being approached by a young suitor.

"It is rather bold in this country for a man of your stature to ask a woman of my stature for dinner alone," the countess replied, "it tends to reveal either intent or the convincing of desires. However, as sister to the Grand Duke, and part of the illustrious group of those who are entertaining you during your stay here, I will accept your offer. However, it must be at my behest and the location at my suggestion. I will therefore suggest a lovely restaurant on the shores of the Potenzan Sea, to the north of here...it is a spot for tourists, but during the winter there are fewer people there, and so it is often a hot spot for the nobility. I would be more than happy to have you join me there, in two nights from now."

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Felix's eyebrows raised as she continued to speak. He had not expected her to be so enthusiastic. He was also suprised by her forwardness; her confidence in suggesting somewhere to go. Felix racked his brain. He new of several Potenzan cities that she could be mentioning; but which was popular with the nobility? It was there. On the tip of his tongue. He had been there in his youth. The sand was fine and the people friendly. He remembered his parents, sitting on the beach, drinking wine and urging him to swim in the sea. He had returned as a teenager and when he was the Ambassador. But what was the name? His mind was blank; his eyes overtaken by this tempting woman seated next to him.

"Madam, I would be most happy to join you. If you would be kind enough to get all of the important information to my staff via your staff, I will be there" said Felix, smiling. The lights dimmed for Act 2. Felix, finally noticing that they had been left alone intentionally, decided to put all of his chips on black. He reached down and took her hand in his.

 

[Potenza]

Those dark eyes of the countess glanced down and watched like a serpent as the prince reached his hand across the way, to her hand. She felt his firm, Karlovian fingers wrap around the soft texture of her glove. For a moment, her red lips parted, revealing her pearl white teeth, and an audible inhale took air into her mouth. Suddenly, with reflexes like a warrior, she swung her other hand, closed the fan, and smacked him on the knuckles.

"Tut tut," Francesca said, motioning with her eyes to the curtain, "not before my brother's minion."

At that moment, Count Niccolo and the captain of his scorta entered, the captain taking his place near the curtain while Niccolo, fresh with the smell of a strong cigar, took his spot behind the two nobles. The rest of the opera went by without another incident, although Francesca was visibly leaning close towards Felix, as if letting him get an easier whiff of her perfume, the scent rising from her neck. When all was said and done, Niccolo and Francesca went out with the prince, the countess taking him aside and curtsying, holding her gloved hand out to him to take:

"I will see at the location provided by my servants - until next time, my prince..."

Another gloved hand - this one belonging to the count - slid across Felix's shoulders, and the prince heard Niccolo say, "Come with my, your highness."

As they walked away from the countess, who stood like a regal statue watching the men depart, fanning herself slowly, Niccolo whispered quietly:

"What did she tell you while I was gone? I simply want to make sure she did not try to cause you to stumble while you are here..."

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Felix grinned. "Sir, perhaps you should as her yourself. I am sure whatever was said to me was in confidence; therefore you must ask her". Felix lit a cigarette and exited the opera only to find a group of angry Carabinieri standing around his car. Felix had forgotten that he and his bodyguard had 'given them the slip'. They glared at him as Niccolo caught back up with Felix. "I shall be taking in some sights outside the city for the next few days. I look forward to meeting with government officials upon my return" said Felix, sliding into the backseat of the car.

 

[Potenza]

A pale look came over the face of Count Niccolo as he heard Prince Felix's words. The siren has enraptured Odysseus, he thought to himself. As he rushed to meet Felix before he entered his car, he heard the words saying that he was "taking in some sights outside the city." The count, who was no foolish man, knew that Countess Francesca was behind this somehow. He leaned forward, placing a gloved hand on the top of the doorway to prevent a Carabinieri from closing it.

"The Grand Duke's government insists that you maintain under the protection of the Law Enforcement Ministry during your time away," Niccolo said rather matter-of-factly, hinting to the fact that Felix would have a Carabinieri attachment around him at all times, "the grand duchy is not a dangerous place by and large, but it would be a major diplomatic embarrassment if anything were to happen to you. I am certain his royal highness understands this."

The count backed away, letting the Carabinieri close the door. Without hesitation he turned to the nearest officer, bearing the marks of a lieutenant, and asked bluntly, "What is your name?"

The officer snapped into a smart salute, replying, "Lieutenant Garibaldi, your highness."

"Well, Lieutenant Garibaldi, you are now directly in command of the prince's attache. I want him watched at all times. If he visits with anyone - especially with females - I want to know about it. Understood."

"Yes, your highness."

The count made his way back into the opera house, but by then the countess had given him the slip and was riding in the royal limo back to the palace. As she sat in the back, thinking to herself, her thoughts returned to how Felix had gripped her hand. Those dark eyes of hers glanced down to the glove cover her soft flesh, and she gently began to take the glove off, tugging at each finger, and then pulling it off to reveal her tanned arm. Gently she ran the fingers of her other hand over her knuckles, taking them, as if trying to reenact the way Felix had touched them. It had been a pity to hit him with her fan, but it was necessary. Not only because Count Niccolo was about to enter - though he provided her a good pretense. Francesca was well aware that she had a body men were naturally attracted towards, and she did not want men to think they could simply reach out and grab at the fruit of the tree that was so pleasing to their eyes. She would permit touching to the men to whom it was permitted...and to whom she desired to feel a touch from.

Still she looked forward to the possibility of further time with the prince. Who knew - maybe she would let him hold her hand for extended amounts of time. She kicked off her high heels and laid back in the seat, stretching out her legs and letting her toes enjoy the soft, regularly cleaned floor of the limo. As she shut her eyes and pursed her lips, her thoughts drifted back to the prince in that dashing uniform of his...