Read Sorcerous Century :: The Contra'Vagus Returns, part 2

The Jewel-Belly, Deceiver of the Abyss, flashed its underside again. Colonel Beron snorted derisively. These same gems that lured greedy miners and treasure hunters to their doom were also the own creature’s undoing. Its tricks would not work. Not here. Not on Corps d’Noir men. As one gem ominously glowed like a demonic heart upon its barrel chest, Warwick fired, shattering the stone. Recoiling, the Jewel-Belly crouched confused and affronted.

“Damn!” Warwick spat, his next volley splitting another stone. It only incensed the beast further and regained predatory attention on him.

Major Olivier turned to the Contra’Vagus and insisted,“Go, your Grace! We’ll deal with this monster!”

Montmercy’s face tightened.

Colonel Beron said with sure tone and direct gaze, “We’ll be right behind you.”

Precious time had been wasted. The Elites deserved more faith. Montmercy nodded. With a quick spurring of the horse’s flanks, the mount took off down the road as though divinely winged. Lieutenant Colonel Marcoux and Captains Forgeron, Rieu, and Flamond followed, matching their leader’s pace, while the rest remained to finish off the unnatural beast.

The thick, grey fog outside the Throne Room’s lengthy stretch of vertical windows down the west wall blended almost seamlessly into the painted clouds adorning the ceiling. Regent Konstantine’s eyes gave a comparing flick between the angel-laden celestial scene above and the jumbled gathering of earthly courtiers, ministers, dignitaries, and other visitors assembled for Petitioner’s Court. The Throne Room was so packed with high-heeled men and luxuriously gowned women that the marble floor was almost completely obscured.

Evidently, it was going to be a long day.

Taking comfort in his gilded, velvet armchair, Konstantine allowed himself a momentary glance at the Dauphin. Awaiting petitioners eagerly shuffled forward to have their diverse complaints and issues be heard. The young monarch had acquitted himself well this morning. Demetrius looked as attentive, thoughtful, and precocious as a future wise King should, even if his posture was too stiffly erect. With time and age, he might learn to sit further back against his throne, but Konstantine couldn’t fault the boy for wanting his heels firmly set on the ground, rather than waving so teasingly close in the air. A fond, paternal smile momentarily teased at Konstantine’s lips. Demetrius had grown so much already. He had betrayed none of the morning’s insecurities though his manners, and accordingly, the Court had responded positively. The general ease of limbs and quiet, cordial murmurs throughout the assembly boded well.

Privately, Konstantine was relieved.

The leaders of the Harmony Salon and the ABC Club were apparently at it again. Viscountess Serafina and Lady Bonamy d’Barbarac stood before the throne. Each leading beauty posed appealingly as they discussed a time conflict between an upcoming charity auction and a garden luncheon. Who would win this round? Although he wouldn’t dare admit it, the Regent appreciated the ladies’ rivalry. Their two factions balanced Court politics rather well, even if they did not comprehend it themselves.

Another glance at Demetrius reassured Konstantine that the Dauphin was feeling his most confident too. The Regent’s insights would not be needed – their self-important squabbles were easy enough to handle. Managing Petitioner’s Court was often the most taxing part of the boy’s day – especially when mediating issues between the most powerful players. Then, he would turn to Konstantine for solutions.

However, some issues raised could not be resolved in Petitioner’s Court. These were turned over to the King’s Council, the most distinguished lords in the Ministry. The six senior men were gathered off to the side of the royal dais, ready to be called upon if need be. However, their political acumen was usually unnecessary here, and made better use of during Council sessions.

Their insights and talents were... a mixed blessing, Konstantine charitably decided.