"My court physician, Doctor Merelli, speaks highly of you," said King Giuseppe. "He says he was once apprenticed under you and always thought you were ahead of your time."

Lady Elena lightly rapped her fork on her plate for attention. "Your Majesty, can we focus on the matter at hand? I need to know what resources you're willing to devote to fighting the rebellion in Brisevent."

Giuseppe's expression soured. "The rebellion, yes. Can't afford to let it spread over here. On the other hand, it's far too early to declare war on Brisevent's new government. Best we can do is put diplomatic relations on hold, at least until the dust has settled a bit." He turned to Sasha. "Would you be willing to engage in piracy exclusively against Brisevent shipping, Captain? Not in any official capacity, of course... Farobianco must maintain a semblance of neutrality for the time being. But I can outfit your ship with better cannons, and I'll pay well for any high-value prisoners of war you can capture."