Peter stared at Saorise for a moment. At the clear challenge in her eyes. It both intrigued and frustrated him. She was preventing him from getting what he wanted, like no opponent he'd ever faced before. At first, he'd seen it as a challenge. As something intriguing, like a new toy to play with. Now it was beginning to annoy him, and for the first time since hearing the name Saorise Caramort, Peter wondered if it would be better if he took care of her another way rather than letting her run her mouth as she had been. It would certainly solve this issue a whole lot faster.

"I think I have given you enough to consider," Peter stated, he snapped his fingers and Lucas presented a scroll with the full list of his demands, "This is my list of written demands for you to consider and debate among yourselves".

Saorise took it and handed it to her brother before he handed back another, smaller piece of paper, "With all due respect, we cannot make a unanimous decision without the presence of all noble families. The nine names on the list are among your prisoners and they will complete the representation of the Eastern Council. If we could trouble you to return them in advance as a sign of good will, the East will greatly appreciate it".

Peter took the scroll, taking a quick glance at the names before he stood, "Very well, shall we meet again tomorrow at noon?"

"If the prisoners are returned by this evening, yes," Saorise agreed, "If I may be so bold as to ask for a private audience, your Majesty?"

It was certainly bold. No one at the table had been expecting it. After a moment, Peter turned to his party and nodded, they shuffled out without protest. Saorise turned to those in hers and nodded as he had. Her brother was the only one who left rather reluctantly as he followed the rest of the Eastern party out.

The door closed behind Lyle, and Peter turned to Saorise. Usually, if a woman requested a private audience with him, it was because of his reputation. Peter knew better by now than to expect anything but diplomacy from Saorise, "Very well, you have your audience. I suppose it is to make a request of me? I would assume it is to do with your brother and father. Unfortunately, I can't-"

"In any other situation, yes, I would have selfishly asked after them," Saorise cut in. When she knew she had his attention, she continued, "But with respect, Your Majesty, I am currently negotiating for the Eastern Peoples, not just House Caramort. As much as it pains me to say it, my youngest brother is not bound in Wendolan chains. If it comes to it, our House will continue without Isaac and my father, and they know it".

She waited in the silence between them for a moment as her words sunk deeper, leaving a strong impression in the room and in Peter before she continued.

"So, instead of begging for the lives of my father and brother, I will instead offer you some advice I hope you will take to heart before we reconvene".

Advice? This Private Audience really wasn't taking any turn he expected. He didn't think Saorise considered herself an advising type except to her family. After a moment, Peter gave a small chuckle in reply, "You are far more than I imagined you'd be. Very well, what is your advice?"

"You stated that your goal was to unite the continent. Whilst I'm sure it fills your coffers and makes your armies larger, taking tribute and taxes as well as forcing young men and women to serve you far from their homes will not inspire loyalty from the East, in fact it is unlikely to inspire loyalty in anyone. You already know we are a proud people. A proud people with over ten thousand years of traditions and customs. Even with those that we call our own we still take the time to learn those traditions and customs of other kingdoms so we might understand our neighbours better. Yet our neighbours in return have called us savages and simpletons all this while".

She took a breath, leaning back in her chair. Her gaze never left Peter's though, and it never wavered to show anything other than strength, resolve and a fierce loyalty for her people.

"If you persist in your current demands it will work for a while. We will adhere to the terms negotiated. But we will never call ourselves Wendolans. After all, what people feels welcomed by those who think lesser of them? In your lifetime, you will likely not see an uprising. But can you ensure that your son's or your grandson's reigns will be as strong and domineering as yours?"

She paused again to let her words sink in, "If you are looking to unite the continent, then this is not the way to do it".

"Then what do you suggest?"

"Unity is not my goal so I cannot offer you suggestions," replied Saorise, "I simply desire the freedom and prosperity of my people".

Saorise rose and made her way towards the door, "I will see you again when we reconvene".

"You do realise the way you have spoken just now is reason enough for me to send those nine nobles back to you headless," Peter replied angrily. Saorise paused at the door, turning to look back over her shoulder at him.

"If you do not wish to fight a war on three fronts, I suggest you don't do that," she paused again, a warm smile on her lips where before there had only been a harsh coldness. Now though, her smile seemed to hold a hint of cruelty. Peter couldn't help but feel the need to grit his teeth in frustration. It was too much like himself when he knew he had the upper hand in something, "Did you know my mother was from the South? It was why the Clarisse attacked after her death. My brother taught them why that was a bad idea, and the price of negotiations was a national debt that is yet to be paid. While your sister is cunning, I doubt she could deny her father-in-law's duty to repay such a debt".

Saorise continued her cruel smile as she took in the strangely surprised expression on Peter's face, then turned and opened the door, "Sleep well, Your Majesty".