The chauffeur kicks down the pedal, causing the car to speed up as you ride through the streets. Through the long rows and parks that constitute the imperial capital. On the way there, you pass two statues, an imperial monument, the old triumphal arch and the supreme imperial court.

In truth, these buildings were built in such a way that they might have been built in the ancient cities of Vienna, Munich, Prague or Berlin. For while the earth itself has been lost to time, its legacy endures; by state decree, most architecture follows a set of strict guidelines regarding appearance. No glass skyscrapers, neon signs, or modern art installations are allowed within the city limits. The result is a seamless blend of old and new, where history and tradition coexist harmoniously with modern amenities and technology. There are exceptions, of course; the industrial section is a great mass of grey steel buildings. And there are a few landmark skyscrapers built in the traditional manner.

Gerstvelden house is one such house, a seven-storey terraced house upon a corner. Overlooking the Prinz Waldemarplatz, a medium-sized square centred around the equestrian statue of said prince.

You walk up to the front door and knock.

It is the valet who opens.

"Welcome back, young master. May I take your coat?'' The short and plump man asks.

You hand him your overcoat, your hat, and your sabre. Before moving up the stairs towards your father's favourite spot in the house, the library.

Much to your surprise, you find the room nearly dark; the curtains are closed, and only the fireplace is lit.

"I had a cataract removed this morning; the physician said I should not be exposed to too much light. At any rate, I should welcome you back.'' You find your father in a chair in the corner, smoking his pipe; he is coincidentally also wearing his favourite dark red smoking jacket.

"So, Father, I am here to tell you about my promotion, as well as my new assignment. It will be quite some time before I may see you again.''

''Yes, so I have been made to understand; if all goes to plan, you will outrank me in noble rank, but that is of little matter until now. Your mother didn't want to go, so she's still on the estate."

He takes the time to stuff some new tobacco into his pipe.

''Good stuff, this, genetically edited, no more health risks. But anyway, the thing is, I am fully aware of what is going on. In my time, I have made some enemies at court, and this new assignment was started as a way to kick you upstairs and away from the centre of power. So I have come out of retirement for this one last time. I can't enjoy the fruits of my labour if it is all undone before my time. So I pulled a few strings. The original assignment was just a governorship over one planet and command over three ships. Obviously, this couldn't do.'' He narrowed his eyes.

>The court?
>Oh, so no assassinations for now?
>How are my siblings?
>Write-in.