607 Greater Roman Idea

"Die Zukunft wird nicht gemeistert von denen, die am Vergangenen kleben."

"Those who adhere to the past won't be able to cope with the future."

- Willy Brandt

Abdullah sank to his knees before the Sultan and the Sultana Dowager, right under the gaze of all present, his head bowed low, his hands resting on his thighs. A gasp of shock echoed across the scene as no one ever imagined the highest court official of the Rumelians stooping before his adversaries. Even the Sultan blinked in surprise, not having been privy to Abdullah's intended actions in their prior meetings.

The air around Edirne became tense, icy even, although it was still the height of summer.

Abdullah remained in a kneeling position, without making a word.

The Sultana Dowager leaned back and sighed. "Negotiations are not done via kneeling and silence, Lord Miralai."