Speaking of power, we have to talk about the man at the top—the Sultan.

You sigh, clear your head, and start telling Malkina what the Sultan is really like and how it feels to be in the shadow of his rule.

When someone holds that much power, it swallows up their personality. Is he good-looking? It doesn't matter. Is he brave or smart? Also doesn't matter.

The only real question is: who would be brave enough to say he isn't?

You describe his daily look for the court: that mandatory coronet, the heavy gold chains, and all those jewels... every single one from a "loyal" courtier. You mention the golden patterns on his face, his favorite fancy fabrics, those gold shoes, and his two famous weapons.

Malkina doesn't blink once, nodding while her fingers idly trace the carpet, like she's already visualizing what "power" looks like.

Before you finish, you tell her this little talk stays between you two. Everyone knows what he looks like, but having it come from you is a political nightmare waiting to happen.

She gives a serious bow and promises to keep her mouth shut.

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