Blackout
West Point Castle
Rider is flushed though it's unclear whether it's from the alcohol or embarrassment. She casts a quick sideways glance. Not human. But still very much a person. Rider downs a whole bottle of sake and Gin is there to replace it as soon as she sets it down. He also sets down three or four more. Along with a bottle of pedigreed wine. Just as quick and Gin came he's gone, retreated back behind the door.
"Someone told me sake and wine don't mix but it's all alcohol. I can catch a buzz but I've only been drunk once." Rider pours a glass of wine. Rider is quiet for a while. She sips the wine and sake  "He must be a good man for you to chase him like this. But if you're doing this just because you think it'll get your comrades out of the deal then you're going to be disappointed. I'm not missing out on this chance to solve my problem without sacrificing my people. I'll set the standard for every ruler who comes after me. This land has been soaked in rivers of blood by those who came before. Women and men alike have suffered. Yet still... those motherless bastards want to go back. Back to the era of suffering. Back to... my husband's laws."