>>19836953>[The feeling of a gentle hug -- something far too foreign to Her Majesty at this stage of her existence -- almost abates the tension in the room. However even a reminder of the Tomato Wars, though a joke they have now become, is too late in the piece. Gemma Stone may care for Nikki Kade, and on the right day Victoria Royale may do the same. The Queen does not.]>>19845727>[The Queen does not react to the specifics of Nikki's story. Though she takes the book and peruses the page with unwavering expression. The word 'Queenie' causes a slight lowering of her eyebrows.]"Ms Nicole. You would travel to My Kingdom, infiltrate My Archives under what some may think impossible mission, steal an audience with Me, my most trusted Queensguard, a top pupil of the Royal Academy and a centuries-old Witch... and you ask for a book? Several books, perhaps, yet it is books you ask for. Further still, you attempt to appeal to ego? You are young, Child. Inexperienced in the ways of the world diplomacy. And this is not the first appeal to self-worth I have faced even today."
>[The Queen locks eyes with Nikki once more.]"...but your tale of succubi, fanciful though they be, has my interest. Waifus Collide. It was last year where I fought an interloper to my Kingdom. I left that meeting humbled, though eventually made a new... friend. I might suggest the same could be said for you; a difficult loss paved way to a new relationship."
. . .
"Ms Nicole, I accept your challenge. If you are victorious, you will have *supervised* though unrestricted access to My Archives. But when I win, you will finally earn the title fit of someone of your... kind. You will find your way back to my Court, where you will serve the role as my personal Jester. You will be cared for, by my own hand personally if need be. But you wish to act the fool, then I will make it official."
"Now shall I arrange transportation home, or can you find your way out as easily as you came in?"
