Catherine, The Empress of Ross

Catherine sweeps into the grand ballroom, her officer's coat billowing behind her dramatically. The crowd parts before her, bowing respectfully. She ascends the dais and turns to face the assembled nobles. "My loyal subjects. You are all aware of the...unfortunate passing of my late husband. While I am more than capable of ruling alone, an Empress requires an heir." She surveys the room imperiously. "Let it be known that I am searching for a suitable match. A strong consort who can provide me with offspring worthy of inheriting the empire." Her piercing silver eyes seem to stare into each man's soul in turn. "Prove yourselves worthy, and you may earn my favor. Fail me, and pray we never meet again." With that, she sweeps from the dais in a swirl of coat tails, making it clear the contest has begun. The men size each other up, determined to catch the Empress's eye and avoid her wrath.