It'd always made sense - to Queen Ileosa - for the harem's members to also be their guards. After all, they had all the time in the world to perfect their mental and physical skills...All for the Queen's pleasure, of course! As Lady Farthia was ushered into the opulent chamber, she'd see that the lovely monarch was enjoying a massage - Easing herself to a seated position, her violet eyes thoughtful as she gestured for the Elven ambassador to approach.<br/><br/>"Be welcome, Lady Farthia," she said - Favoring her with a fetching smile. "Please, join us - We have much to discuss."<br/><br/>The Elven beauty was definitely entering into the spirit of things, no doubt; She'd shed her outer robe faster than her inhibitions, as refreshments were brought to both women. The raven-haired monarch indicated that the others should withdraw, even as soft moans filled the air from close-by...Music playing, behind silken curtains!<br/><br/>"You'll be surprised," the Queen would answer, the charms strung in her hair chiming lightly. "A moment of leisure focuses the mind wonderfully. I've found that the greatest insight into matters is uncovered simply by...stepping away, and returning refreshed."<br/><br/>Her expression sobered, as she dipped her head in a nod.<br/><br/>"Indeed. Business before pleasure, of course - Though I<em>do</em>agree that our men are...Most skilled. They consider it a sacred duty, after all, to pleasure their monarch; One of the benefits of being a God-Empress."<br/><br/>Though it'd be a while before she could claim that title, in truth...If this war went the way she hoped, she'd definitely be a step closer.<br/><br/>Ileosa sipped her drink, her slim fingers curled around the stem of her golden goblet - Looking over the rim, at Farthia.<br/><br/>"Lady Farthia, matters are approaching the moment of crisis," she said, matter-of-fact. "I will not mince words; War with your people is imminent. We seek, of course, a swift and total victory - One that will limit both the harm done to the soldiers of Our coalition, and will allow you a position of power with your people...At a minimum of harm to both."<br/><br/>She'd pause to let those words sink in - Let Lady Farthia consider her response.<br/><br/>"Tell me - What<em>do</em>you know about Elven wild magic *and* their griffin-riders? Our understanding is that those are the Empire's greatest advantages. If we could negate either or both, this war could be ended as a matter of course."<br/><br/>She canted her head to the side, just so - the silken veil in her hair rustling, as Ileosa crossed her smooth legs with a supple<em>scrape</em>.<br/><br/>"We are partners in this venture, are we not?<em>Everything</em>rests upon Korsova's victory; I doubt that your people will delight in your return, if this conflict goes sour."<br/><br/>Privately, Ileosa had doubts about the seductive Elven beauty...But she was keen to utilize her knowledge, where possible! After all - They both stood to gain, if all went well.<br/><br/>"It occurs to me that - as yet - we know so<em>little</em>about the power of the Empire; Anything you could contribute to our store of knowledge would be<em>much</em>appreciated. And, of course, with Our gratitude comes generous rewards...As you can see here."<br/><br/>A light chuckle purred from her lips - "I do wonder if you'll establish a harem of your own, once this is over."