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The queen tittered "So e on Luna"

Kai paused, waited, then exhaled slowly, keeping his expression neutral Another moment, and he remembered to even be skeptical "Are you sure? We already have everything set up on Earth All the transportation and acco, the announceers behind the veil "I don’t knohy I didn’t think of it sooner We will host the ceremony here in Artemisia We have plenty of space for accommodations, and I have no doubt you will be pleased with the hospitality we can offer"

Kai pursed his lips, worried to dissuade her from the idea, and equally worried to appear too enthusiastic

"Is this a problem, Your Imperial Majesty?"

"I don’t doubt Arte it, I’uests ould have been privileged to attend the wedding here on Earth In particular, the leaders of the Earthen Union"

"But of course the invitation will be extended to all Earthen diplomats I would be disappointed if they didn’t attend After all, our union will be a symbol of peace, not only between Luna and the Commonwealth, but between Luna and all Earthen nations I can extend the invitation to each of our Earthen guests personally, if you think that would be appropriate"

He scratched behind his ear "With all due respect, there may be some … hesitation frouarantee that we--they won’t be walking into a trap? You’ve ainst Earth and there are suspicions that you ht still use your status as empress as a launchpad for, well…"

"World domination?"

"Precisely"

Levana tittered "And what do you fear, exactly? That I ht assassinate the heads of the Earthen Union while they’re here, as a way of paving an easier path to taking control of their silly little countries?"

"Precisely"

Another giddy laugh "My dear emperor, this is an offer of peace I want to earn the trust of the Union, not alienate theuests will be treated with the utmost courtesy and respect"

Kai slowly, slowly let his shoulders relax Not that he believed her for a minute, but it didn’t matter She had acted how he’d hoped she would

"In fact," continued Levana, "as a show of ree to your request of an ihout the Union, and that cease-fire will be upheld in every Earthen territory whose leaders accept our invitation to attend the wedding here in Artemisia"

Kai flinched

That was one way to increase attendance

He rubbed his palue with the point that Artemisia is more secure than any place we could choose on Earth I will discuss this with the leaders of the Earthen Union ie of location will not be a proble preparations for your visit, and our ht, and … on that note When would you like--"

"I suggest the eighth of Nove and celebratory feast, followed by both coronations on the day following the new moon We can schedule it to coincide with our sunrise--it is a beautiful tiht be a little off, ith the whole hostage thing, but … isn’t that only a week away?"

"Ten days, Your Majesty This alliance has been deterred for too long I do not believe anyone wishes to seeyou and your guests" She dipped her head in a courteous farewell "My ports will be ready to receive you"

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