Emmaline agrees to a private 'appeal' in the Bishop's chambers

Emmaline stared at him, holding the Bishop's terrifying gaze. In that moment, she suddenly felt very small. He had been the one in control from the start, of course, but Emmaline was only just starting to realize how easily it seemed everything had played into his hands. She was far too out of practice with these sorts of games, and now he had her completely under his thumb.

"Yes." she said, simply. Emmaline reached out, handing her wine glass back to the man who had poured it. When she spoke again her words were strained.

"I am well aware of what I said. You must understand that she is my sister. There is nothing I wouldn't do for her protection." Emmaline paused. The Bishop only watched her. She knew it was probably best to stay courteous, but she just couldn't find it in her. "You have heard stories, I am sure, of what I have done. I fix things. Let me fix this. That is all, I beg of you. If my sister has done wrong, allow me to be the one to see it set right."

"A plea for special treatment is something that is best done in private," the Bishop said, his voice still kindly as he coolly sidestepped her offer "Lady Alexandria has kindly provided me with private chambers for the evening, which would be suitable to hear your appeal and give it the full attention it deserves. I have no doubt that you will do your best to make a convincing case. I will retire to the chamber, and my companions will escort you there in a moment. Pour lady Emmaline another glass of the wine that she enjoys so much," he finished, speaking to no one in particular.

The Bishop turned away and disappeared through a door. A full glass of wine was placed in Emmaline's hands and she took another sip as she looked across the room at her younger sister, the rich wine suddenly tasting like bile in her mouth.

"The Bishop is waiting, my lady," one of the companions said with a firm smile, gesturing to the door. Emmaline glanced about, hoping to see some means of escape, or of other Bravos, but she saw nothing as she was escorted out of the ballroom.

***

This chapter was co-authored by Shandy (https://chyoa.com/user/Shandy)-- Shandy is the author of Fox in the Henhouse and The Peril's of Lisa-- please check out his stuff! :)