When it comes to power, one must speak of the master above all—Sultan.

You sighed, steadied yourself, and recounted his presence, his bearing, and the weight of authority he wields.

When a person carries power so immense, it overwhelms everything else he possesses—handsomeness? Irrelevant. Courage? Irrelevant. Wisdom? Irrelevant.

What matters is, who dares say he lacks these things?

You described the Sultan's everyday attire before his ministers: the crown that must be worn, the gold chains that seem almost mocking, and the jewels he wears at will—each bestowed by a devoted courtier. You told her of his golden regal visage, his favored intricately patterned brocades, gilded slippers, and of course, his two famed weapons.

Malkina listened with rapt attention, nodding repeatedly, her fingers tracing patterns on the carpet, as if she cannot wait to sketch out what "power" looks like.

At the end of your conversation, you demanded complete secrecy—though all in the Lapis Lazuli Palace can see Sultan, the knowledge that came from your words could cause untold political trouble.

She bowed solemnly and sweared to reveal nothing.

Conditions:

• Slot #2 = 1

Result:

• Adjust Tag (Sociability) of Slot #1: Add 1
• Counter (7000823): Add 1
• Counter (7000815): Add 1

Action:

• Enable Event: Summary of power

Where there is power, there is desire. And a ruler's desire manifests in the women around him. You spoke of a few favored consorts, who, with a smile, a song, or a single enchanting night, can shape the lives of countless subjects.

You considered which consort to describe first. Any choice will delight Malkina, for every guest wanted to know how Sultan's women dress, adorn themselves, and present their beauty.

Conditions:

• Slot #3 = 1

Result:

• Counter (7000824): Add 1
• Counter (7000815): Add 1

Action:

• Enable Event: A woman who pleased the monarch...
• Enable Event: Summary of power

You recalled Sultan's Iron Guards.

These men are Sultan's most trusted warriors; they do not meddle in politics directly, yet they may enter the court bearing swords slick with the blood of ministers.

You explained to Malkina that these guards wield real power—every courtier warns their children or heirs never to cross them. For if one day Sultan's wrath falls, and an Iron Guard raises their blade, no one kneeling in the court will save you!

You also described their uniforms which are often modeled after the regiments they command, yet far more sumptuous, costly, and impractical than any common soldier's attire.

She asked for more, eager to know the details. Now, which guard shall you start with?

Conditions:

• Slot #4 = 1

Result:

• Counter (7000825): Add 1
• Counter (7000815): Add 1

Action:

• Enable Event: A certain sword-wielding iron guard...
• Enable Event: Summary of power

Within the court, beyond Sultan and those closest to him, there are courtiers whose decisions shape the Empire's destiny. You are one among them. Which powerful figure will you recount to Malkina?

Conditions:

• Slot #5 = 1

Result:

• Counter (7000826): Add 1
• Counter (7000815): Add 1

Action:

• Enable Event: A certain powerful lord...
• Enable Event: Summary of power