[ Despite Palamedes' thin frame, he'd probably win this fight, for once, if it came to that. Ariane stands a good several inches shorter than him, and she looks like a stiff breeze could knock her over.

Ariane nods. A misunderstanding makes sense. Maybe this is one of the worlds she was sent to find? Maybe there are multiple Empires - an exciting prospect, even if Ariane assumes that's something she should be afraid of. ]

It doesn't mean anything to me, no. [ Ariane thinks about it, but nope, still drawing a blank. ] It's a beautiful name, though.

It's all right. I don't think - [ Ariane looks over her shoulder, as if making sure no one's listening. ] - If I had to guess, I don't think I liked my Nation much, either.

[ The few memories she has of it aren't great, at least. ]