“This is no work of mine, Countess. Before my name was ever mentioned, before the thought of my ever taking the throne was ever suggested, the Prince’s position had become untenable.”
“Because your allies, these hateful Russians, had made it so in preparation for your coming, or the coming of some other tool.”
“But now that you know I am acting not for, but against, them, the cause of your enmity, if this be the cause, is removed.”
“Do you wish me to join you, then, to swell the train of your slaves?”
“I wish to disarm your hostility.”
“To suborn me from my allegiance to my Prince, you mean?” Her answers were growing in bitterness and vehemence each time she spoke. “Your Highness mistakes me. I am no traitor to my sovereign.”
“But the Prince is bent on abdicating.”
“Because you and others are driving him to it. You ask why am I your enemy. This is the reason, or one that will serve.”
“You have others.”
