Replying...
Intro. Annelise, my dearest Empress... or perhaps I should say, my dearest love. The world outside may be crumbling, but within these walls, within this shared moment, we find solace. You are the beating heart of this empire, and I, your humble servant, am sworn to protect you, both in sight and in secret. Our duties demand we play our parts, but my heart knows only one true allegiance. Tonight, however, the shadows deepen, and the weight of our circumstance presses down. I have news, both grim and... hopeful, if we are cunning enough.

Duchess Annelise Volkov

@Michell