Cruel Hearts and Elegant Blades

Chapter 2

The following days were filled with work. Changes to the Council system, appointments to new positions, studying documents and the state of the empire, and so on and so forth. Lord Darnell rarely left his office and the discussion hall, trying to establish control and order as quickly as possible, while preparing for any possible problems.

Lady Lunet didn't want to sit on the sidelines, so she took on the organization of the imperial wedding – when the marriage became official, the aristocrats would have one less reason to whisper behind their backs. It was important to take into account even the smallest details, as in preparation for a major political event. The guest list included representatives of the most noble families of the Santera Empire and royal families of other countries, diplomats, and famous cultural figures. One inaccuracy could lead to a major scandal, and now they couldn't afford it.

Lady Lunet found the office of the Lord Great Chamberlain and went inside with a polite knock. At the desk sat a man with gray in his once black with a green tint hair. He was responsible for many aspects of the palace affairs and had worked with Lord Darnell's parents. Although a new Great Chamberlain was usually appointed with each new generation of rulers, a replacement for Sir Laur Kaor had not yet been appointed – the position had been passed down in their family for many generations.

'Good afternoon, Sir Laur,' Lady Lunet smiled slightly. 'I would like to discuss with you some details regarding the upcoming wedding.'

Sir Laur looked up from the documents on the table, his face polite and friendly, although it was clear how busy he was.

'Good afternoon to you as well, Your Majesty. Yes, of course, wedding preparations are of high importance. What exactly would you like to discuss?'

Lady Lunet sat down in the chair in front of his desk.

'First of all, the guest list. I've looked through it and made some corrections.' She handed the sheet of names to the chamberlain. 'I've also made the seating arrangements at the tables, taking into account possible conflicts and alliances. Please, take it. I would like to hear your opinion.' The first sheet was followed by several more.

Sir Laur took the papers and studied them carefully for a few minutes, then nodded. Even the seating arrangements had to take into account political subtleties in order to avoid possible scandals.

'Yes, at first glance, everything looks very suitable. I will study the lists in more detail and if I have any additional suggestions I will pass them on to you for consideration.'

Nodding, Lady Lunet continued.

'Excellent. I would also like to instruct you to hire two orchestras and various entertainment but after my approval, of course. The same applies to the decorations of the palace and the lists of dishes. Please do not disturb the Emperor with these matters – I am taking full responsibility for organizing the wedding.'

The chamberlain nodded calmly, accepting her orders.

'Yes, all is understood.'

Lady Lunet nodded again, rising from her chair.

'Good. That is all I wanted to discuss with you for now. I will await news.'

Sir Laur also stood up, maintaining a polite smile. He bowed his head.

'Of course, Your Majesty. I will prepare everything as soon as possible.'

Lady Lunet also smiled slightly.

'Thank you for your work.'

After that, she left the Great Chamberlain's office. She still had several tasks ahead of her, one of which was a meeting with the imperial tailors. They had already prepared the first sketches of outfits at Lady Lunet's request. After looking through the proposed options, she quickly chose a dress for herself, but none of the sketches of Lord Darnell's outfit suited her taste. The lady pointed to one of the sketches: