<div class="floatleft">(https://i.imgur.com/0kQTA1Z.png)</div><table class="bbc_table"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Name</strong></td><td>Countess Lieutenant Kathryn Foss</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Date</strong></td><td>May 3025</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Location    </strong></td><td>Siege Perilous: Karnov Transport</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Tagging</strong></td><td>Open, Edward DuPierre</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Content</strong></td><td>Arrival</td></tr></tbody></table><hr/><br/>Kathryn listened to the Vicount, carefully picking apart his words. It would be good practice for the 'feast'. Recent events suggested she badly needed a refresher on etiquette.<br/><br/><em>"Well, if you were asking that question to a man who is in hunger after a long trip... the answer would probably a resounding yes."</em><br/><br/>The Viscount was better at small talk than her. Unsurprising. While she was aware of the tools of politics, her skills with them were lacking.<br/><br/><em>"Still, I am not naive as I might seem dear Countess. I might not be a jaded person, nor can I proclaim myself as a totally naive person."</em><br/><br/>Meaningless. Anyone would self describe that way. Odd that he would say it out loud though. Probably didn't spend much time at court or politicking.<br/><br/><em>"I have seen such things, though never really been a part of it on my home planet."</em><br/><br/>Called it. Still, it was good to have confirmation (still assuming it wasn't an act). It explained a lot too. Those less experienced in courtly matters tended to be better conversationalists. Spending time talking like a normal human being and not watching every word said had its advantages.<br/><br/><em>"This 'feast' serves more than keeping us fed and watered... this whole thing  is a beautifully disguised farce if I say so myself."</em><br/><br/>The Vicount's grasp of the obvious was astounding. Still, at least he wasn't a total idiot. He may have even actually earned his position.<br/><br/>Probably the only noble here who did.<br/><br/><em>"That is what I think, anyway... what do you think of it, dear Countess? Are you looking forward to this 'feast' as well?"</em><br/><br/>Kathryn paused, attempting to phrase her response in a way that wasn't a complete and blatant lie. Charlotte diplomatically injected herself into the conversation. "The Countess is, of course, most thankful and appreciative of our hosts hospitality."<br/><br/>Kathryn smiled. "Indeed. Thank you, Lady Althaea."