Empire! The Grand Ball of 431

[Aedilred]

The Third Grand Ball of Telluris
Sugumand (Spring), 431

The Ball is to be held on the fiftieth anniversary of its ill-fated predecessor, in defiance of any ill omens that might presage. True to form, Horbeach has changed its nature again since the last visit by any number of sovereigns fifteen years before. The city is now however largely constructed of stone, save for some of the older wooden buildings around the docks, and the new buildings, including those currently being erected, give more of an impression of permanence. Those with an eye for architecure would notice the Triumviral influence in the style of many of the buildings.

The Sea Palace itself, where the Ball is to be held, is largely unchanged from the exterior, although some of the interior decorations have changed. In addition to the tapestries previously hanging there, there are new banners depicting the heraldry of the various territories held by the Jarrow, together with various works of art whether produced either locally or shipped from overseas, including a large coloured glass sculpture of a kingbird, and, rather less prominently, a marble statue which depicts a Jarr warrior being rather visibly seduced by a nude islander woman. Various trophies and artifacts also hang in places of prominence, ranging from the garlands won by the royal family at the last Raaneki Games, to the arms and armour of famous warriors, to a somewhat cheeky display of figureheads captured by privateers from AQUA trading vessels - and a few blank spaces which the shrewd might suspect had until very recently housed those from Tzaltec slave ships.

http://www.byzantium1200.com/images/bucoleon.jpg

As each group of guests arrives, they are escorted either straight to the Great Hall, or to their apartments to visit the Great Hall at their convenience later. The Hall is a large room with a hammer-beam roof, hung generously with banners depicting the various clan arms and bright tapestries, co-mingled with displays of mithril axes and coloured shields, all illuminated by the high, arched windows. The main space in the hall has been cleared for dancing, with tables arranged along one side of the room bearing food and drink, though servants also circulate offering refreshment. A temporary gallery has been erected, upon which the minstrels sit, with flutes, reed pipes, drums and various stringed instruments.

An example of music (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pl2Ga0DbdQE&list=PL89nHxOsq1IAumFWT4CGKXJYas4NJbQYP).

On a dais at the far end are thrones for the king, queen and Qzare, although the king is standing for the moment at least to greet the guests as they arrive, flanked by his heir Alfmark and Queen Tempest. Standing nearby are the Duke of Vennland, the various Kraves of Farridon and irearchoneia of Tempestia, and, a short distance further still, the king's champion Wiltor Sunder, and beside him, looking decidedly uncomfortable in a formal environment, the privateer captain Jogay Morris.

Guests are permitted to retain personal weapons for the sake of their dignity, but naked steel is frowned upon and armed retinues discouraged: there are plenty of palace guards present to maintain order.

If anyone would like a private room, that can be arranged.


King Athelmere and Queen Tempest (70, 65)
Atheldynn Jarrow, their son (37), Adrianna, his wife (38), and their daughter Emryn (13)
Elwyr (28), the king's second son
Alfmark (35), the king's cousin and heir, and his wife Melhib Benxia
Militae, widow of the Earl of Jarburg, formerly a Matriarch of the Priory of Ascension
Radber, Duke of Vennland (68), his wife Talli (52) and their children Sellyn (24) and Siggi (17)
Wiltor, Duke of Sunder and king's champion (30) and his mother Ella (63)
All the senior nobility of Farridon and Tempestia

[Lord_Burch]

Lady Miranda Bordeux, accompanied by her husband, Deryn, as well as three armed guards, who wear the now-expected snarling, animalistic masks common among the Seryl of Valterre. The guards have left their swords with their horses, although they still carry their short, heavy saxe knives. Miranda and Deryn, for their part, are both dressed in gold-and-crimson clothing, with a soaring eagle embroidered over their heart. Miranda has dark skin and hair, in congruous with her Bordeusi heritage, although she has the green eyes of her mother. Deryn has brigth, golden hair and ruby red eyes, with sharp daggerlike features. They walk arm in arm, though Deryn seems a bit apprehensive in the foreign country, though Miranda is at ease and smiling at his nervousness.

-----

They approach the dais, Miranda whispering something in Deryn's ear. Probably along the lines of "be polite", knowing the distinctly arrogant nature of highborn Seryl.

Greetings, King Athelmere. We appreciate your hospitality. And hope that this event remains unmarred by it's predecessor. , a shadow crossing her face. But this is my husband, Deryn Taggart. We were married three years ago.

Greetings, King. You have my thanks for your hospitality.

[Reggiejam]

Kyria and Loris Varinel, Princesses of the Heartwaste, arrived accompanied by the Countess Havala Alabasa and her two children, the Countess-to-be Hashana Alabasa, and her younger brother Durin. The retinue struck a strange figure among the human population of the southern lands, the Varinel Twins more especially with their Aukii Cloudiz Wings folded upon their back. The Twins walked in step with the Countess Alabasa, herself a striking figure of pure Fae beauty largely untouched by the Werekin strain present in the royal line. The Countess had a sharpness to her that spoke of a quick and rigid demeanor, a task mistress if ever there was one. Her hair was a flat silver pulled back in an elaborate bun on the back of her head, her eyes were a piercing ruby red, and her ears pointed sharply out with no hair attempting to hide them.

The Countess' children carried much of their mother's physical appearance but both seemed somewhat demure and more reserved in their demeanor. Durin, silver hair long but pulled back and clipped to hang down his back, also showed signs of astonishment and amazement though he hid them quickly when his mother gave him a hard stare or the Varinel Twins drew close and whispered in his ear. It was impossible to tell what the girls were saying but it clearly had an effect as Durin's eyes would once again cast themselves down and his budding excitement seemed dashed. Hashana conversely enjoyed much of the Varinel Twins' attention and seemed to enjoy their attention, though an astute observer might note some sense of intimidation in her eyes.

The Heartwastian delegation approached the raised dias upon their entrance to the Great Hall and waited to greet the hosts, bowing when given audience.

"Thank you for hosting us King Athlemere," the Countess said first after the bow.

"Our mother regrets she could not attend herself," the Varinel Twins spoke in perfect unison, their synchronized voices having a strange reverberation, "She has traveled much and could not depart the Freehold again so soon."

"I have brought the boy," she gestured to Durin, "He awaits eagerly the chance to meet his betrothed."


Heartwaste Princesses Lorisanth and Kyria Varinel (14 Both Single; Strange Proclivities)
Heartwaste Countess Havala Alabasa (51 Married)
Heartwaste Countess-Heir Hashana Alabasa (19 Single; Heartwaste Nobility)
Heartwastian Durin Alabasa (15; Betrothed)

[Aedilred]

In the hall, the three make their way up to the dais where the royals are to be found. William extends his hand to King Athelemere.

"Greetings, Your Highness! And good to see you too, Atheldyne!"

The boy, meanwhile, hesitates for a fatal half-second, which means that when he does step forward to greet Princess Emryn, he is unexpectedly accelerated by a nudge from his mother. He stumbles into Emryn, sending them both sprawling.

"Really, Clovis. Could you at least introduce yourself to the girl before trying to tumble her?" remonstrates Grand Duchess Louisa.

Clovis, meanwhile, jumps back to his feet, blushing furiously, and extends his hand to help Emryn back up.

"So sorry about that. Will you forgive me?"
Emryn is startled by the collision and fall, but she has grown up in a rather rough-and-tumble environment, and is proud of her islander heritage, so is rather less shocked than might be expected from the indignity and Louisa's remark. She is still thirteen, though, and thus more easily embarrassed than she might be, a slight blush showing on her cheeks. Still, she takes the bull by the horns.

"That depends," she says, as Clovis helps her up. "What do you plan to do to earn my forgiveness?"

Meanwhile, Athelmere shakes the hand of the Grand Duke, as do Atheldynn and Alfmark. "It's good to see you again, lord Duke," the king says. "How fares Pavonia?"


They approach the dais, Miranda whispering something in Deryn's ear. Probably along the lines of "be polite", knowing the distinctly arrogant nature of highborn Seryl.

Greetings, King Athelmere. We appreciate your hospitality. And hope that this event remains unmarred by it's predecessor. , a shadow crossing her face. But this is my husband, Deryn Taggart. We were married three years ago.

Greetings, King. You have my thanks for your hospitality.
Athelmere bows, slightly stiffly. "It is my great pleasure and honour to welcome you both here, milady, milord. Please allow me to introduce my heir, Alfmark, and his wife, Lady Melhib of Eyrecradia." Alfmark is a tall man in his mid-thirties, slightly broader in the shoulder than the usual Jarrow, but still fairly slender. Melhib is a gem elf, her features unmistakeably fae in origin, though unlike the Seryl her skin is jet-black.

"Welcome to Jarrland," Alfmark says with a smile and a nod. "My congratulations on your marriage."



The Heartwastian delegation approached the raised dias upon their entrance to the Great Hall and waited to greet the hosts, bowing when given audience.

"Thank you for hosting us King Athlemere," the Countess said first after the bow.

"Our mother regrets she could not attend herself," the Varinel Twins spoke in perfect unison, their synchronized voices having a strange reverberation, "She has traveled much and could not depart the Freehold again so soon."

"I have brought the boy," she gestured to Durin, "He awaits eagerly the chance to meet his betrothed."
"A shame Queen Valineth was unable to come," Athelmere said, "but I am pleased to welcome you here all the same." He looked at the twins as shrewdly as he could manage. "I see you have the twin act perfected, ladies. My daughters never learned to speak in unison, but they did like to finish each others' thoughts and sentences. Mostly for effect, I think."

He turned to Alfmark when Durin was introduced. "Is Melhyn here?"

Alfmark shook his head slightly. "With the other children."

"Ah yes. We thought that some of the younger guests might find the main ball somewhat dull-" - not to mention that the potential numbers of infants could be overwhelming and detrimental to the whole event - "so there is a private event elsewhere in the palace for them if they would prefer. I believe Princess Melhyn is there, if you would care to join her, Durin, or if not I shall send word for her to come here."

[DurkBlanston]

Dieter squinted at the leather parchment he had just been handed, licking his lips, before looking back up at the patient face of the Wyrmar Guru flanked by the bobbing faces of the riding young Ameer Markus and the stone face of R'Jas.

"I'm afraid I don't understand," Councilor Stein said, "I can't hardly make out what's written here."

"It is a prophecy granted from the eye of the Wyrm to mine own eye, the Ameer shall find what he seeks at this Ball." the Wyrmar's voice was quiet and hollow, like the wind blowing through the deserts of the leathery skinned Guru's home region.

"Right, well...good." Dieter said, passing the parchment back and taking a sip from his Heartwine flask.

"He reads the stars for me," Markus said to the woman ridinging off to his side.

"Does he now?" the foreign princess smiled, ever so slightly, her stoic face keeping from becoming too animated, "Perhaps he shall have to teach me what he knows." she looked over at the Wyrmar Guru who met her gaze steadily.

"Quiet, quiet all of you!" Dieter said, popping his third Cana Bean for the day, "We're nearly there!"

With that the Councilor prodded his horse forward to draw level with the head of the party, the Lord Protector Cassius himself.

"Your Lordship, that Guru of your son's is spouting off that Young Markus is to find what he seeks. I have no idea what that man is talking about half the time."

"Perhaps my son shall find himself a girl he fancies, and in turn stop spending so much time with that damn mystic."

"Aye your Lordship, the fella unnerves me too. Though the sorceress seems to have taken a liking to him."

"Ah yes, her. Just what Palas Caercia needs, more mystics. At least she's been cordial enough not to convert my son to some desert folk religion. Ah but we're nearly there, perhaps we should discuss these things no more."

****

The retinue from Palas Caercia entered the Great Hall with minimum fanfare and Cass looked about with recognition and awe at the way in which the Jarrlanders managed to change the entire setting to fit the Ball from its appearance at the wedding of his sister and from the times of non-revelry when Cass had visited the Carmine King. Cass approached the dais and bowed to his hosts in time with his retinue.

"It is an honor to travel here to your Kingdom again King Athelmere," his head turned towards Adrianna and he smiled at his sister before returning his gaze to the King.

"Allow me to introduce my son and Ameer of Palas Caercia, Markus," the young man dipped his head politely towards the King at his name, "His tutor, the Wyrmar Guru Agni Sahni, and the Princess R'jas un Z'kovn Sy'yski of the Far West. We have taken to calling her Princess R'jas." each bowed in turn as their names were mentioned.

"And of course, Councilor Stein insisted on traveling with us to your fair kingdom."

"At least one last time I had to look upon the beauty of the Islands, sister of Raaneka," the elder man said to the Queen, his charming smile and earnest words belying his round and aged appearance.


Lord Protector Cassius "Cass" Caercia (Male, Human, 37, Married) - Recently ascended leader of Palas Caercia. Dark black hair kept short, light brown/gold skin, brown eyes, 5' 8", average weight

Ameer Markus Caercia the Younger (Male, Human, 12, Single and looking to mingle) - Heir to Palas Caercia. Dark black hair kept short, light golden skin, brown eyes, 4' 10", average weight

Guru Agni Sahni (Male, Wyrmar, 31, Single) - Guru of the Wyrm Below religion out of Wyrmar and personal friend and tutor to Markus Caercia the Younger. Dark hair in braid down left side, bald on the rest of the head, braided beard, pale blue eyes with faint pupils, 5' 4", thin

Princess R'jas un Z'kovn Sy'yski of the Far West (Female, Human, 28, Single) - Princess and Sorceress both from a land to the Far West, she is currently a guest of honor amidst the Caercian delegation. Dark hair worn long in an elaborate style, golden/yellow skin, brown eyes, 5'3", average weight

Councilor Dieter Stein (Male, Human, 60, Married) - Senior member of the Caercian Council and known diplomat to the greater world. No hair, light skin, grey eyes, 5'7", rotund)

[Morph Bark]

"Next time, the girls might best be left in Aus-Teire, milord." A modestly-dressed servant woman told in mildly disapproving, but mostly exasperated tone.

"Next time, Marina? Next time they'll either be old enough to act proper or there won't BE a next time!" The Qzare replied, hands in his hair.

Tianshi stood silently waiting by the door, ever full of poise, even at six years old. Her sister was less controlled, jumping on the beds of their room that the five daughters Tailong and Ambryn had taken along shared. Fengbao ululated as she jumped off to get away from their nanny and crawled underneath one of the beds. Huanle was nowhere to be seen. At least he knew the twins were with their mother. Tailong got on one knee next to Tianshi and cast a calculating look over his shoulder at Marina trying to grab Fengbao from under the bed. "Well Tianshi, I guess we should just get going. We'll probably find Huanle at the Grand Ball somewhere anyway. Looks like Fengbao isn't up for coming with--"

"I AM COMING I AM COMING." Within seconds the girl had crawled out from underneath the bed, ran past Marina and stood by Tianshi, hands on her back. Tailong cast a suspicious but somewhat approving look at her. "Very well then."


Kyria and Loris Varinel, Princesses of the Heartwaste, arrived accompanied by the Countess Havala Alabasa and her two children, the Countess-to-be Hashana Alabasa, and her younger brother Durin. The retinue struck a strange figure among the human population of the southern lands, the Varinel Twins more especially with their Aukii Cloudiz Wings folded upon their back. The Twins walked in step with the Countess Alabasa, herself a striking figure of pure Fae beauty largely untouched by the Werekin strain present in the royal line. The Countess had a sharpness to her that spoke of a quick and rigid demeanor, a task mistress if ever there was one. Her hair was a flat silver pulled back in an elaborate bun on the back of her head, her eyes were a piercing ruby red, and her ears pointed sharply out with no hair attempting to hide them.

[...]

"Our mother regrets she could not attend herself," the Varinel Twins spoke in perfect unison, their synchronized voices having a strange reverberation, "She has traveled much and could not depart the Freehold again so soon."

Ambryn walked up to her father holding Shuxian and Yinhuo by her hands. "Hello father, it's been too long." She smiled. They tried to make a point of visiting often enough and sent out invitations for every Moonshroud Festival, but between her three pregnancies and not all family members being able to make the trip for health or political reasons, they hadn't seen one another for nearly three years. She gave him a hug, not minding the guests. Shuxian and Yinhuo, however, stared open-mouthed at the Heartwaste Princesses. Twins, like them. The four-year-olds were astounded by what they had heard just before as the pair had spoken in unison.


"Uh... do you have any enemies you want slain? Or maybe I could steal the Burning Avatar's... has the Avatar got any nice jewelry I could acquire for you? Or I could go fetch a flower from the other end of the world, that's what the hero does to win the princess's favor in all the stories. Or I could just fetch you a pastry if you'd like me back in a hurry. :smallredface:"

If Clovis had the presence of mind, he might feel someone short pressing something against his back. A white lily.

Ever the sneaky one and dreamy from all the romantic stories she demanded from her parents or Marina, Huanle had snuck up behind Clovis and his parents and gotten in at the opportune moment. "Now kiss." The six-year-old whispered.

[WaylanderX]

Wayve let the views of the city sink in. This was the first time he set foot in Salterri Lands, so he did not really know what to expect, except that what he read from the scrolls at the Academy. He knew King Athelmere to be a good and just man, according to the stories and his own impressions at his own coronation 5 years ago. Orion Airguard, Arche of the Eastern Skies, noticed his lord's interest.

"My lord, may I be so bold to ask what you find to be so intriguing about these Salterii lowl....people?"

Wayve sighed, it wasn't a secret that the commander of Kasumor's aerial forces disliked the Salterii. His sire fought in the Salterri invasion of the north decades ago, and perished while fighting one of the wurm riders. As a testament to his Prowess though, he took the rider with his. Orion still loathed the Salterri for that reason, and the long years only served to temper his hate for them into a cold, ruthless demeanor. Ironically, this demeamor was what made his such a good commander in the first place.

"Arche Orion, I know these words will prove to be futile upon your ears, but these Salterri are not the savages that attacked the north all those decades ago. Barring a few acceptions, they are quite reasonable."

"Except that Tailong brat. An Emperor should not take the burden of rulership so lightly." He thought, a grimas upon his face.

Rove chuckled, guessing his father's irritation when it concerned the Salterri monarch. A smart kid he was. Not really a good fighter, but sharp of wit and his ability to read people was almost terrifying.

Crëag, the Arche of the Living Earth, commander of the Menhîrin forces, walked behind them, debating with the Arche of Steel and Knowledge, Ruok Korson. Crëag was, although not as large as Grïend, a sight to behold in his own right. Standing 3.5 meters tall, he was clad in an adamentine and shintouite fullplate, with his right fist completely covered by thick shintouite plates. Ruok on the other hand, was dressed in a light boiled leather armor, all matter of whizzing gadgets visible behind steel plating. As far as he could hear, they were arguing about wherever Bucka or Menhîrin were a better choice at assaulting a fortified fortress. Sighing, Wayve turned towards them. Absorbed in their conversation, it took the duo twenty seconds to notice their lord staring at them, patiently tapping his armored foot upon the stone. Ruok became red as a fried pistolshrimp, muttering his apologies. Crëag did the same, quickly stepping towards Grïend to escape his lord's glare. Wayve turned back around, a smile upon his lips. “I guess they got the message. Good.”

He raised an eyebrow when he noticed the Triumviral architecture. The Salterri were more acceptable of foreign culture as of late. Approaching the Sea palace, the group entered through the front gates.

Like always, the Hurosha delegation attended in full arms, as was custom in the Hurosha Empire. Wayve was clad in a fullplate made of Orihalcum, with Adamantine covering the more vital pieces. The Phoenix Star shone on the center of the chestplate, glittering in a thousand colors. Upon his back waved a cape made of Yorukuni silk and Kasumori cotton, made in the royal colors of the house of Earthguard, yellow and black, with his own heraldy visible in the middle. His axe, Akaitaiyo, is visible upon his back, its blade wrapped in direwolf leather. His son Rove walked behind him, clad in lighter arms, a fouldable towershield and a kusarigama as his weapons. Grïend walked with them, clad in his shintouite plating. With them, three unknown men walked with them, one Kasumori, one Bucka and one Menhîrin.

The group walked forward towards their host. To his right side, he saw two familiar faces among the crowd. His daughters seemed to have gotten here before him. Mentally he made a note to look them up when he was done talking to Athelmere.

“May your Prowess leave awe in its wake, Lord Athelmere. I am happy I was able to visit your lands so soon after we discussed it in Earthhome.”

He beckoned to his three commanders.

“May I introduce you, three of Hurosha's army commanders, The Arches of Hurosha. Orion Airguard, Arche of the Eastern Skies. Crëag, the Arche of the Living Earth. And Ruok Korson, the Arche of Steel and Knowledge. I believe you already met Grïend and Rove.”

Upon Grïend's shoulder, a Kasumori woman was perched, cloaked and hooded. A fishtail was clearly visible, abeit with a large stinger at the end....She flew down and made a gracefull courtsy

“My mother, the Avatar of Balance, Chosen of Ashmar, Nyllana Earthguard, you also have met if I recall correctly. However, for reasons that I think are obvious, she wants to remain anatonous for the time being.”

Another Kasumori woman appeared from behind Grïend, appearing to be around 20 years old, wings and gills visible.

“This is Marana Earthguard, my niece.”

A grin appeared on Wayve's face.

“She is still unmarried you see, as is Rove. Balls like these are perfect for.....seeying what the world has to offer, don't you agree.”

“But I digress. If you have can find a gap, Lord Athelmere, could you spare a bit of your time? I wish to discuss some matters with you that could benefit both of our nations.”

OOC: Rove and Marana are both up for marriage. Both of them have two Cloudiz features, Wings and Gills. Anyone interested?


*A while later, for Reggiejam*


OOC: I figure Wayve has not seen the twins for a couple of months for this. If you find this wrong, then Wayve is just enthousiastic to see his girls again :smalltongue:.

Walking around the ball, Wayve beckoned Rove, gesturing to the twins of the Heartwaste.

"Let us greet your sisters, shall we?"

"As you wish, father."

They both walked to the twins, nodding to the Heartwaste officials standing near.

Wayve stretched his arms.

"Kyria! Loris! It has been a while! How are my two beautiful daughters doing?"

Rove smiled and shook his head at his father's antics. So much for a formal greeting.

[QuintonBeck]

Aluic arrived at Horbeach accompanied by two others, strangers to the greater world of Telluris, and completely unknown names to those that did not follow Triumviral Senate politics. Senator Zaafarani Ignato of Woodwind, wife to the Chancellor Dyamusan Ignato, and Senator Ajeet Nia-Rohana, a grand nephew of the current Chancellor of Genivana. The two Senators had insisted on accompanying the Speaker, "as representatives of their constituents" who were the ever dividing sides within the Senate, Reformist and Traditionalist.

Zaafarani represented those within the Senate who wished to relax Triumviral involvement in foreign matters, focus more on the internal economy and military, and see technological focus shifted away from civic works and focus instead on industrial and military applications.

Ajeet was, it seemed, the young Woodwind woman's foil, being opposed to greater military spending and preferring to focus on supporting and strengthening ties with foreign powers who were not yet allies of the state, seeing progress focused on building up civil service and care for Triumvirate citizens and ultimately strengthening the ideals of freedom and civil rights amidst the Triumvirate and abroad.

Both had come to Aluic on separate occasions asking to accompany him in his journey to Jarrland and while insisting it was not true he knew both their reasons were the same, they were seeking to learn of the role of Speaker so that they might have a greater chance to bid for nomination amidst their supporters for the 439 election. He had though perhaps they would seek to challenge him in the 434, but both had expressed an aversion to doing so and the recent Gunpowder Plot of the last year had made the Senate wary of electing one from their side to Speaker, preferring to continue letting Aluic sit as the primary target. Or perhaps it was a sense of loyalty and love of Aluic that had garnered their support though Aluic had played the game long enough to doubt such selfless reasoning behind his fellow Senators' decisions. Nonetheless it ensured he would see a third and final term although he wondered whether that was a blessing or a curse.

The Senators entered the Great Hall to the announcement of the Triumvirate delegation's arrival but with no great herald or great pomp they were quickly swallowed by the crowd. Aluic noted the various Jarrlander trophies hanging from the walls and the absence that spoke of a political choice. The Speaker wondered whether the empty spaces had held the skull of Tupelo or the tools of Tzaltec slavers. Being in charge of funding for the Western portion of the Grand Canal the Senate had heard stories of Jarrland privateers striking out against Tzaltec ships in the Carmine Sea and knowing Athelmere's temperament towards slavery from the Summit those years ago he wouldn't be surprised if the King kept mementos of lost Tzaltec slavers. The though made Aluic smile slightly. King Athelmere may not have been the Speaker's greatest fan but the two shared many views and on slavery they were of a like mind. He was pleased the Carmine King was fighting against the institution, no matter how tangentially.

Eventually the Senatorial delegation arrived in front of the dais and the three Triumvirals bowed low, respectful always of foreign royals.

"Good King Athelemere, it is a pleasure indeed to travel to your lands and see the works of friends and allies. Allow me to introduce my companions who compete to replace me when my time is done."

"We don't-" the two Senators began to protest almost at the same time.

Aluic held up a hand and gestured to each in turn, Senator Ajeet Nia-Rohana of Genivana and Senator Zaafarani Ignato of Woodwind," the two Senator's closed their mouths no longer in protest and nodded in respect to King Athelmere.

"And may I belatedly congratulate you Your Grace on the formation of the Kingdom of the Carmine Sea. It is good to see a friend of the Triumvirate prosper."


Speaker Aluic Shaeldtae - 47
Senator Zaafarani Ignato - 44
Senator Ajeet Nia-Rohana - 50

[Aedilred]

"Uh... do you have any enemies you want slain? Or maybe I could steal the Burning Avatar's... has the Avatar got any nice jewelry I could acquire for you? Or I could go fetch a flower from the other end of the world, that's what the hero does to win the princess's favor in all the stories. Or I could just fetch you a pastry if you'd like me back in a hurry. :smallredface:"

"I don't know about the Blazing Avatar, but I know one of her aides has some nice jewellery." She pointed towards the thrones, where a man wearing a bandana and the silk robes of a member of the Temple was sitting at the foot of the dais. "Bring me one of his rings and I'll forgive you." She smirked slightly. "And a pastry."


Ever the sneaky one and dreamy from all the romantic stories she demanded from her parents or Marina, Huanle had snuck up behind Clovis and his parents and gotten in at the opportune moment. "Now kiss." The six-year-old whispered.
Having made her decree to Clovis, she glanced down and caught sight of her cousin. "What are you doing there?" It seemed there were suddenly Li children everywhere, and telling them apart was hard at the best of times. "Where are your sisters?"


The retinue from Palas Caercia entered the Great Hall with minimum fanfare and Cass looked about with recognition and awe at the way in which the Jarrlanders managed to change the entire setting to fit the Ball from its appearance at the wedding of his sister and from the times of non-revelry when Cass had visited the Carmine King. Cass approached the dais and bowed to his hosts in time with his retinue.

"It is an honor to travel here to your Kingdom again King Athelmere," his head turned towards Adrianna and he smiled at his sister before returning his gaze to the King.

"Allow me to introduce my son and Ameer of Palas Caercia, Markus," the young man dipped his head politely towards the King at his name, "His tutor, the Wyrmar Guru Agni Sahni, and the Princess R'jas un Z'kovn Sy'yski of the Far West. We have taken to calling her Princess R'jas." each bowed in turn as their names were mentioned.

"And of course, Councilor Stein insisted on traveling with us to your fair kingdom."

"At least one last time I had to look upon the beauty of the Islands, sister of Raaneka," the elder man said to the Queen, his charming smile and earnest words belying his round and aged appearance.
"And it is a pleasure to see you again," Athelmere said to Cassius. "Princess R'jas, I have heard tell of your arrival on our continent, including rumours that you have some interesting talents?"

"Are my 'interesting talents' no longer enough for you after fifty years?" Tempest asked, in imitation shock. She sighed theatrically, and shrugged at Councillor Stein. "At least it seems somebody around here appreciates me - thank you, Councillor." She and the king exchanged a momentary private look, and she laughed.


Ambryn walked up to her father holding Shuxian and Yinhuo by her hands. "Hello father, it's been too long." She smiled. They tried to make a point of visiting often enough and sent out invitations for every Moonshroud Festival, but between her three pregnancies and not all family members being able to make the trip for health or political reasons, they hadn't seen one another for nearly three years. She gave him a hug, not minding the guests. Shuxian and Yinhuo, however, stared open-mouthed at the Heartwaste Princesses. Twins, like them. The four-year-olds were astounded by what they had heard just before as the pair had spoken in unison.

"It has," he said, returning her hug, "but then a month would be too long." He nodded at the twins. "Are they giving you as much trouble as you and your sister gave me?"




“May your Prowess leave awe in its wake, Lord Athelmere. I am happy I was able to visit your lands so soon after we discussed it in Earthhome.”
...

“This is Marana Earthguard, my niece.”

A grin appeared on Wayve's face.

“She is still unmarried you see, as is Rove. Balls like these are perfect for.....seeying what the world has to offer, don't you agree.”

“But I digress. If you have can find a gap, Lord Athelmere, could you spare a bit of your time? I wish to discuss some matters with you that could benefit both of our nations.”
"Indeed," Athelmere said with a smile. "I'm glad to be able to return your hospitality, at least as far as I can." He greeted and nodded respectfully to each of the ambassadors and family members in turn as they were introduced." Keeping a straight face, he continued, "Are you sure these are all of your people this time? Your grandfather caused quite a scene when he visited."

He smiled slightly at Wayve's comment. "You met Queen Valineth at the last Ball, unless I'm mistaken?" He glanced over at Tempest. "I think each of us made rather good use of the opportunities that event presented. Of course, I would be happy to discuss anything with you as soon as I have discharged my immediate obligations as host. Or if it is urgent, please do talk to Alfmark. He has been helping me more of late and all but acts with my authority anyway these days."

Unfortunately I'm pretty much out of eligible girls, and most of my boys are too young for marriage, depending how far down the "food chain" you're prepared to go. I do have a few second+ cousins, cousins-by-marriage, or the like.



Eventually the Senatorial delegation arrived in front of the dais and the three Triumvirals bowed low, respectful always of foreign royals.

"Good King Athelemere, it is a pleasure indeed to travel to your lands and see the works of friends and allies. Allow me to introduce my companions who compete to replace me when my time is done."

"We don't-" the two Senators began to protest almost at the same time.

Aluic held up a hand and gestured to each in turn, Senator Ajeet Nia-Rohana of Genivana and Senator Zaafarani Ignato of Woodwind," the two Senator's closed their mouths no longer in protest and nodded in respect to King Athelmere.

"And may I belatedly congratulate you Your Grace on the formation of the Kingdom of the Carmine Sea. It is good to see a friend of the Triumvirate prosper."
Athelmere tried to conceal a mild amusement. The Triumvirate prided itself on its adoption of democracy, yet if he was not mistaken each of the senators before him was of royal blood themselves. Suppressing a sudden perverse desire to address them by their inherited titles, he nodded to each of them in turn.

"Senators, a pleasure to meet you. Welcome to Horbeach. May I introduce my heir, Alfmark? Aluic met him at the Summit, but before long he will be running this kingdom, inasmuch as he doesn't already."

Once Alfmark would have protested, but he simply smiled tightly and nodded. "Senators, welcome. If you should need anything, please do not hesitate to ask."

"Thank you," the king said in response to Aluic's congratulations. "Alfmark did much of the work on the administration, I must admit."

"He is too modest," Alfmark said, shaking his head. "When he came to the throne there were barely fifty thousand people subject to this crown. Now, there are nearly ten times as many, and all of them more prosperous."

"There is still much work to be done, though," said Athelmere.

"There always is, but it could not be accomplished without what you have already achieved. You have built a kingdom, and I will build a city. As you will have seen, Senators, the core of the city has now achieved a degree of permanence, thanks in no small part to the Woodwind architects. In the coming years we plan to build and expand yet further, to turn Horbeach into a true capital for a kingdom of this size, and the greatest metropolis south of Fiassa's Fast."

[Aedilred]

Clovis spins on his heel and marches up to the figure.
"Excuse me, sir, but I need one of your rings to redeem a promise to a fair maiden and reclaim my honor. Would you accept this in trade?" He produces a heavy golden ring from his jacket pocket, with an amethyst about the size of his thumb set in it.
From beside the man, a large shape stirs, uttering a low rumbling growl and gradually growing in size and stature as it unfolds itself from its recumbent position. A pair of amber eyes latch onto Clovis, and he sees a blunt, russet feline face. It is a lioness, stocky and fully-grown, glaring at him.

"Peace, Rath," the man says, putting a hand on the back of the lion's neck to calm her. He looks Clovis over, and glances over to where Emryn is watching. "My niece put you up to this, didn't she? Well, in that case you may have a ring, and you need not worry about the exchange." He pulls a wooden ring from the little finger of his right hand and passes it over.


Meanwhile, Grand Duke William addresses King Aethelmere. "Your Highness, do you think we could talk in private later? There's some business I would like to discuss with you. And I'm afraid it rather concerns you too, Atheldyne."
"Of course," he says. "I hope it is nothing too serious - but then, I suppose, all manner of business conducted by sovereigns is serious in one way or another."

[Reggiejam]

"A shame Queen Valineth was unable to come," Athelmere said, "but I am pleased to welcome you here all the same." He looked at the twins as shrewdly as he could manage. "I see you have the twin act perfected, ladies. My daughters never learned to speak in unison, but they did like to finish each others' thoughts and sentences. Mostly for effect, I think."

He turned to Alfmark when Durin was introduced. "Is Melhyn here?"

Alfmark shook his head slightly. "With the other children."

"Ah yes. We thought that some of the younger guests might find the main ball somewhat dull-" - not to mention that the potential numbers of infants could be overwhelming and detrimental to the whole event - "so there is a private event elsewhere in the palace for them if they would prefer. I believe Princess Melhyn is there, if you would care to join her, Durin, or if not I shall send word for her to come here."

The two girls smiled at the King's words.

"Fae blood begets twins your lordship. The stronger the influence, the stronger the bond between them. Or so they say." the twins said together.

"Yes, that is a belief held in The Heartwaste, it speaks well of your Fae blood that it still carries the propensity for twins even here in the south," the Countess added, "I imagine my son would find such an area more entertaining," she gestured for the Durin to prepare to follow whoever was set to take him to the youth event.

"As for the princesses, myself and my daughter, we shall leave you to your duties as host and enjoy the event you have assembled for us." she bowed and she and the three girls moved away from the dais to mingle amidst the crowd.


If anyone is interested Hashana Alabasa is a 19 year old Fae Noble (equivalent 15-17 year old human) set to become a Countess in the Heartwaste. Very tangentially royal but primarily just noble-blooded. Certainly not a high up there prize bride but if you're looking for a connection to the Heartwaste it's here.





*A while later, for Reggiejam*


OOC: I figure Wayve has not seen the twins for a couple of months for this. If you find this wrong, then Wayve is just enthousiastic to see his girls again :smalltongue:.

Walking around the ball, Wayve beckoned Rove, gesturing to the twins of the Heartwaste.

"Let us greet your sisters, shall we?"

"As you wish, father."

They both walked to the twins, nodding to the Heartwaste officials standing near.

Wayve stretched his arms.

"Kyria! Loris! It has been a while! How are my two beautiful daughters doing?"

Rove smiled and shook his head at his father's antics. So much for a formal greeting.


That would probably be accurate. It's all good either way! :smallbiggrin:


"Father!" the two girls smiled and ran into Wayve's arms.

The two may have enjoyed causing trouble and raising mischief but no one doubted the love they had for their father.

"We wanted to wait for you father, but the Countess insisted on leaving sooner."

"My lie- Your lordship," the Countess said, correcting herself after recognizing her surroundings, "I would have waited so that we might travel together but the Queen insisted I depart as soon as all was ready."

[DurkBlanston]

"And it is a pleasure to see you again," Athelmere said to Cassius. "Princess R'jas, I have heard tell of your arrival on our continent, including rumours that you have some interesting talents?"

"Are my 'interesting talents' no longer enough for you after fifty years?" Tempest asked, in imitation shock. She sighed theatrically, and shrugged at Councillor Stein. "At least it seems somebody around here appreciates me - thank you, Councillor." She and the king exchanged a momentary private look, and she laughed.


Councilor Stein grinned while Cass' face twisted in embarrassed amusement and Princess R'jas spoke,

"News travels fast on this continent," she mused, "I am capable of utilizing some of the older magiks known in the 'Far West' as the Caercians call it. I have learned to twist and tie lightning from the Maesters of Hong Bao and to read the Nightcrackle Shadows as they do in Zuiguo but such relies much on proper tools and ingredients that I do not have here. Perhaps if the Queen does not object I could give you both a demonstration of a simple fortune reading once the festivities here fade in intensity."

"She can read the future too Agni." Markus whispered to his Wyrmar Guru.

The Guru glanced down at Markus, a smile twitching at the corner of his lip before looking back up at the Western Princess, only to catch her glancing his own direction.

[Aedilred]

After a brief swing by the buffet table, Clovis returns to where Emryn stands.

"Here you go, milady. One pastry..." *he passes her the pastry he'd snagged from the table* "...one ring..." * He slips the wooden ring onto the ring finger of her left hand, taking the opportunity to kiss the back of her hand* "... and one flower." *He passes her the lily Huanie had passed her*.

"Why, thank you. And Rath didn't even eat you! I'm impressed." She smiled coyly. "Very well, you are forgiven."

She looked down at Huanle again. "And you, young lady, should mind your own business."


The two girls smiled at the King's words.

"Fae blood begets twins your lordship. The stronger the influence, the stronger the bond between them. Or so they say." the twins said together.

"Yes, that is a belief held in The Heartwaste, it speaks well of your Fae blood that it still carries the propensity for twins even here in the south," the Countess added, "I imagine my son would find such an area more entertaining," she gestured for the Durin to prepare to follow whoever was set to take him to the youth event.[/SPOILER]
"That would seem to make sense," Athelmere said, with a raised eyebrow, "although we attributed the recent outburst of twinning to Tempest's family. Do you have any fae blood?" he asked, turning to her.

"I'm sure my mother had a little bit of fae in her at some point or other," she said. Alfmark's face suddenly assumed an almost comically serious expression.

Athelmere chuckled and turned back to the Countess. "Well, I hope you enjoy the Ball, ladies, and if you need anything, please do ask for me."


Councilor Stein grinned while Cass' face twisted in embarrassed amusement and Princess R'jas spoke,

"News travels fast on this continent," she mused, "I am capable of utilizing some of the older magiks known in the 'Far West' as the Caercians call it. I have learned to twist and tie lightning from the Maesters of Hong Bao and to read the Nightcrackle Shadows as they do in Zuiguo but such relies much on proper tools and ingredients that I do not have here. Perhaps if the Queen does not object I could give you both a demonstration of a simple fortune reading once the festivities here fade in intensity."

"She can read the future too Agni." Markus whispered to his Wyrmar Guru.

The Guru glanced down at Markus, a smile twitching at the corner of his lip before looking back up at the Western Princess, only to catch her glancing his own direction.
"Fortune reading, you say?" Athelmere and Tempest looked at each other for a moment. "There was a story about a fortune - it seemed to be a genuine fortune - in Farridon last year. How did it go again?"

"Something about a sinner across mountains and fire..." Tempest turned and called across the hall. "Elwyr! Come here a moment!"

"Boy's got the memory of a scorned Ashenite bride," Athelmere said.

Elwyr, a man in his late twenties, wearing a bandana and silk robes reminiscent of the garb of Calorum priests, strolled over with raised eyebrow. "Yes, mother?"

"The... prophecy in Farridon. How did it go?"

"He who fled ‘cross mountain with sin as cold as a Sylphid spinster, the lumberjack! Hail the frozen sky-stone, as painter’s brush make red the ring of fire, foreign kings’ lament," Elwyr recited flatly, without hesitation.

"Do you have any idea what any of that might mean?" Athelmere asked R'jas.

[Morph Bark]

After a brief swing by the buffet table, Clovis returns to where Emryn stands.

"Here you go, milady. One pastry..." *he passes her the pastry he'd snagged from the table* "...one ring..." * He slips the wooden ring onto the ring finger of her left hand, taking the opportunity to kiss the back of her hand* "... and one flower." *He passes her the lily Huanie had passed her*.

Having made her decree to Clovis, [Emryn] glanced down and caught sight of her cousin. "What are you doing there?" It seemed there were suddenly Li children everywhere, and telling them apart was hard at the best of times. "Where are your sisters?"

Huanle giggled happily to see that her aid seemed to be appreciated by the young princeling. When he was gone for his quest, she shared a look with Emryn of complete innocence. "Papa's with Tianshi and Fengbao and Mama's with the twins. Not the twinses, just the twins." She stated matter-of-factly, as if she thought herself a genius for her little flowery ploy before her older cousin.


"It has," he said, returning her hug, "but then a month would be too long." He nodded at the twins. "Are they giving you as much trouble as you and your sister gave me?"

Ambryn laughed. "Would that they did, then my troubles would be few. Tianshi is well-behaved, but the others are as bad as Eirwyn and I together were, and there are seven of them! At least Marishi and Yue are too young to be much trouble yet. I'll take them along next time so you can meet them."

She looked well, just a bit worn out, but happy, and beautiful as ever with her purple-black hair worn simply in a short ponytail and a folded ricepaper rose in her hair that Tianshi had made her. She had gained weight from the three pregnancies she'd gone through, each of them taxing as she brought more than one child into the world. She had confided in Eirwyn in a letter that she nearly died giving birth to Shuxian and Yinhuo according to the midwife, but all three of them had pulled through in the end. Ambryn dressed a bit more richly than before, with a lot of silver thread, but in spite of it being a Grand Ball she wore a pair of finely cut pants and a shirt and jacket that were for all purposes looking like an imitation of a navy captain's uniform, but of more exotic cloth and all in rich dark purple threaded with silver, and rather close to her own form as well. It had made Tailong nostalgic about their trip to the Frost Moon Festival and his comments about her hind deck. Luckily the children hadn't been present, but she'd thrown an apple at his head nevertheless.


The two girls smiled at the King's words.

"Fae blood begets twins your lordship. The stronger the influence, the stronger the bond between them. Or so they say." the twins said together.

"Yes, that is a belief held in The Heartwaste, it speaks well of your Fae blood that it still carries the propensity for twins even here in the south," the Countess added, "I imagine my son would find such an area more entertaining," she gestured for the Durin to prepare to follow whoever was set to take him to the youth event.

"Lord forbid your sons marry my daughters," Ambryn noted as she stood by her father's side. "I bear little fae blood, but I've born triplets. I'd hate to see my girls expand the family so rapidly. The Qzare would have an army of granddaughters to contend with." The thought seemed to amuse her.


Qzare Li Tailong (age 49), Lord Protector of the Imperium, Champion of the Fifth Raaneki Games
Empress Ambryn Jarrow (age 34), captain of the Furious Tempest, Champion of the Sixth Raaneki Games
Tianshi, Fengbao and Huanle (age 6), triplet daughters to the Qzare
Shuxian and Yinhuo (age 4), twin daughters to the Qzare
Marina (age 22), their nanny
Bù Chéngshí of Qíngrén (age 51), captain of the Inconceivable
Jiao'ao (age 28), former deckhand, captain of the bodyguard
Bendan (age 29), Ura (age 24) and Nobaha (35), bodyguards

[WaylanderX]

"Indeed," Athelmere said with a smile. "I'm glad to be able to return your hospitality, at least as far as I can." He greeted and nodded respectfully to each of the ambassadors and family members in turn as they were introduced." Keeping a straight face, he continued, "Are you sure these are all of your people this time? Your grandfather caused quite a scene when he visited."

He smiled slightly at Wayve's comment. "You met Queen Valineth at the last Ball, unless I'm mistaken?" He glanced over at Tempest. "I think each of us made rather good use of the opportunities that event presented. Of course, I would be happy to discuss anything with you as soon as I have discharged my immediate obligations as host. Or if it is urgent, please do talk to Alfmark. He has been helping me more of late and all but acts with my authority anyway these days."

Unfortunately I'm pretty much out of eligible girls, and most of my boys are too young for marriage, depending how far down the "food chain" you're prepared to go. I do have a few second+ cousins, cousins-by-marriage, or the like.

Wayve's face darknened for a moment at the mention of his grandfather.

"My grandfather won't be joining us. Marius Earthguard perished at my coronation, protecting my mother. May his Prowess bring out the best in us all."

After Athelmere's comment about the grand ball, he could stop a broad grin from appearing on his face.

"That is correct. These Grand Balls have a tendency to very interesting, in more ways then one."

Well, Marana is also a cousin, so that would fit. If you don't mind having a Cloudiz-blooded in your family. I remember you having something against that in the past. :smalltongue: Also, could I interest you in a trade? I got furs, gold, iron for sale. Just wanting to strenghten my ties to the mightly Kingdom of the Jarrs.:smallbiggrin:


"Father!" the two girls smiled and ran into Wayve's arms.

The two may have enjoyed causing trouble and raising mischief but no one doubted the love they had for their father.

"We wanted to wait for you father, but the Countess insisted on leaving sooner."

"My lie- Your lordship," the Countess said, correcting herself after recognizing her surroundings, "I would have waited so that we might travel together but the Queen insisted I depart as soon as all was ready."

Wayve let out a hearthy laugh, holding his daughters in a warm, if metalic, embrace.
Teasingly, he said:

"So, why by Ashmar did your mother send you two here on your own? You girls are not planning anything big here, are ya?"

He winked and bend close, whispering:

"If you do, come to me and your brother, we'll..... help out a bit."

Rove rolled his eyes.

"Just ignore Father like you usually do, he problably drank to much Sublime Scotch, according to the nonsense he is sprouting. If you listen to him, he might insist summoning Bori in the middle of this room or something."

"Rove! I am hurt you talk about me that way! However...that idea of yours is ver..."

"BY ASHMAR, NO FATHER!"

Laughing he let go of his daughters.

Afterwards, he smilingly nodded to the Countess.

"There is no harm done, Countess. I can see the wisdom in her decision. We might be married, but our nations are at this moment still seperate entities. It would be unwise to let the outside world think otherwise."


At the sight of Rove and Marana, nearly every member of the Pavonian delegation flinches and traces a symbol somewhat resembling a swastika upon the air. The only two who do not are Louisa, who retains perfect self-control, and Clovis, who is to preoccupied with his faux pas towards Emryn to have registered the Huroshan's existence...

From the corner of his eyes, Rove saw a whole group of people flinching at the sight of him and his niece. The Pavonians, if he recalled correctly. He did not know much about them. It couldn't hurt to ask if they had offended them or anything. Knowledge is Prowess, after all. Mentally, he made a note to ask them if anything was wrong. It wasn't every day that you scared that big a group.

After the Huroshan delegation greeted their host, Rove made his way towards the Pavonians. He made a deep bow before the southerners.

"May Prowess guide you, friends. I am Rove Earthguard, Prince of the Hurosha Empire. I could not help but notice your, in my eyes, strange reaction when you noticed us. Did we do anything to offend you?"

[Aedilred]

"Now that I have atoned for my clumsiness, may I sit with you at dinner tonight? And might I request the first dance?" Clovis looks almost painfully earnest.
"Very well then, if you insist," she says with a smirk. "I'm sure it will make Huanle happy, anyway."


Wayve's face darknened for a moment at the mention of his grandfather.

"My grandfather won't be joining us. Marius Earthguard perished at my coronation, protecting my mother. May his Prowess bring out the best in us all."

After Athelmere's comment about the grand ball, he could stop a broad grin from appearing on his face.

"That is correct. These Grand Balls have a tendency to very interesting, in more ways then one."

Well, Marana is also a cousin, so that would fit. If you don't mind having a Cloudiz-blooded in your family. I remember you having something against that in the past. :smalltongue: Also, could I interest you in a trade? I got furs, gold, iron for sale. Just wanting to strenghten my ties to the mightly Kingdom of the Jarrs.:smallbiggrin:

"Indeed. The Blazing Avatar has been invited, although hopefully if she does make an appearance it will be only as the Avatar and not the Lord of Fire himself as last time." He looked slightly grim for a moment. "Speaking of which, there will be a ceremony of remembrance later for those who died fifty years ago. I know about your uncle Riphal, but if there are any other fellows as yet unknown to me who were lost then, please notify my aides and their names will be added to the list of those to be remembered."

Cloudiz aren't normally a problem :smallwink: The only time it was was for Eirwynn, who had been betrothed to Zhuang before he turned out to be the worst person in the world, so finding someone who didn't remind her of him was important...
In terms of available adults in that case I have the two children of the Duke of Vennland (one boy, one girl), who are both in their early-mid-20s. They're both first/second cousins of the main-line royals. Also their half-cousin Wiltor, who's the first lord of Jarrland, aged about 30, cousin by marriage to the crown but no blood relation or claim to the throne. There's also the Horwiks who are Athelmere's first cousins on his mother's side, a 30-year-old girl and 18-year-old boy... and the claimant Earl of Isling, who's 35, and a second cousin once-removed of the king: he has a very distant claim.

Trade-wise I have Quartz, Toma Nuts and Dyes. Happy to take Furs or Gold in exchange.

[DurkBlanston]

"Fortune reading, you say?" Athelmere and Tempest looked at each other for a moment. "There was a story about a fortune - it seemed to be a genuine fortune - in Farridon last year. How did it go again?"

"Something about a sinner across mountains and fire..." Tempest turned and called across the hall. "Elwyr! Come here a moment!"

"Boy's got the memory of a scorned Ashenite bride," Athelmere said.

Elwyr, a man in his late twenties, wearing a bandana and silk robes reminiscent of the garb of Calorum priests, strolled over with raised eyebrow. "Yes, mother?"

"The... prophecy in Farridon. How did it go?"

"He who fled ‘cross mountain with sin as cold as a Sylphid spinster, the lumberjack! Hail the frozen sky-stone, as painter’s brush make red the ring of fire, foreign kings’ lament," Elwyr recited flatly, without hesitation.

"Do you have any idea what any of that might mean?" Athelmere asked R'jas.

"The prophecy mentioned a sky-stone? I could not speak for the rest, so often are prophecies steeped in local culture and without being the one to receive the vision it becomes harder to interpret, but sky-stones are known to me. There are tales of great pillars falling from the heavens and planting themselves in the ground. Their origins and purposes are unknown and not even the greatest scholars have unraveled their meaning.

But such has not happened for many years in the west, but it could speak of a similar phenomenon to occur here, on this continent. More of such I could not say."

"I have spent time to study the northern religions," the Wyrmar Guru spoke, "The Eastern Frozen Doctrine speaks of sin cleansed through frost. History and texts speak of the vengeance the Lord of Fire is willing to inflict and the fire of northern and eastern mountains. Perhaps this speaks of a volcanic doom."

"Surely not so abysmal a meaning," Dieter said waving a hand dismissively, "While I find fortune tellers intriguing individuals and have likely lost more silver to them than a man ought to most tell only what the customer wishes to hear. No doubt such doom sayings were for effect alone!"

"Yes, those who claim connection to the mystic so often wrap themselves in ambiguities to heighten their own seeming importance," Cass looked over at the Wyrmar Guru who did not catch his eye, though Markus seemed offended by his father's words he kept silent.

[Reggiejam]

Wayve let out a hearthy laugh, holding his daughters in a warm, if metalic, embrace.
Teasingly, he said:

"So, why by Ashmar did your mother send you two here on your own? You girls are not planning anything big here, are ya?"

He winked and bend close, whispering:

"If you do, come to me and your brother, we'll..... help out a bit."

Rove rolled his eyes.

"Just ignore Father like you usually do, he problably drank to much Sublime Scotch, according to the nonsense he is sprouting. If you listen to him, he might insist summoning Bori in the middle of this room or something."

"Rove! I am hurt you talk about me that way! However...that idea of yours is ver..."

"BY ASHMAR, NO FATHER!"

Laughing he let go of his daughters.

Afterwards, he smilingly nodded to the Countess.

"There is no harm done, Countess. I can see the wisdom in her decision. We might be married, but our nations are at this moment still seperate entities. It would be unwise to let the outside world think otherwise."


"We aren't planning anything father," the two girls smiled innocently, but their father's knowing eye may have caught them glancing at the younger males guests attendant at the Ball when they thought he wasn't looking.

"Yes, Your Majesty, I believe those were her thoughts," the Countess leaned in closer and spoke more quietly, "And Her Grace wished to be in the north should Prince Daiki's plan fall through in some unforeseeable manner."


I don't know if you saw but I'm attempting to forcibly colonize Galie-Noiret under Pryonia so should Wombat agree to exchanging Wenyavuk when I then join you and get Tekorva I can establish a Great Kingdom and be a Greater Vassal. I know you were planning to help Chief get Pryonia and I'd be happy to assist with any venues there as well and let Chief get TPs down in Galie but I saw this as an opportunity to get a GK that I couldn't let it go by.

Have you heard anything from Wombat about Wenyavuk? He hasn't PMed me back about anything :(

[Aedilred]

Huanle giggled happily to see that her aid seemed to be appreciated by the young princeling. When he was gone for his quest, she shared a look with Emryn of complete innocence. "Papa's with Tianshi and Fengbao and Mama's with the twins. Not the twinses, just the twins." She stated matter-of-factly, as if she thought herself a genius for her little flowery ploy before her older cousin.
"So why are you over here playing the flower girl? Have you been put in charge, or did you sneak off?"


Ambryn laughed. "Would that they did, then my troubles would be few. Tianshi is well-behaved, but the others are as bad as Eirwyn and I together were, and there are seven of them! At least Marishi and Yue are too young to be much trouble yet. I'll take them along next time so you can meet them."

...

"Lord forbid your sons marry my daughters," Ambryn noted as she stood by her father's side. "I bear little fae blood, but I've born triplets. I'd hate to see my girls expand the family so rapidly. The Qzare would have an army of granddaughters to contend with." The thought seemed to amuse her.
"No caragita would be safe!" Athelmere said, with a broad grin.

"Not just the caragita," Atheldynn said, smirking at his sister. "Fifty grandchildren, give or take, if each of the girls is as... prolific as you two. That's enough for every crown in Telluris. They may have ousted grandmother's blood from Tangarotha, but we can conquer the rest of the world in our own way, without even taking mine and Eirwynn's into account."

"Four for Eirwynn already!" Athelmere exclaimed. "I must admit I was rather surprised how soon they started appearing, considering it's Ashenia. It seems the Grant women have a way of bringing out the best - or perhaps the worst - in even the most reserved of men. Still, I must admit, girl, while I miss having you around, I am glad that I don't need to worry myself about actually raising any of the children currently running about the place. Doing that once was more than enough, I think. I can only imagine what it must be like for you..."



"The prophecy mentioned a sky-stone? I could not speak for the rest, so often are prophecies steeped in local culture and without being the one to receive the vision it becomes harder to interpret, but sky-stones are known to me. There are tales of great pillars falling from the heavens and planting themselves in the ground. Their origins and purposes are unknown and not even the greatest scholars have unraveled their meaning.

But such has not happened for many years in the west, but it could speak of a similar phenomenon to occur here, on this continent. More of such I could not say."

"I have spent time to study the northern religions," the Wyrmar Guru spoke, "The Eastern Frozen Doctrine speaks of sin cleansed through frost. History and texts speak of the vengeance the Lord of Fire is willing to inflict and the fire of northern and eastern mountains. Perhaps this speaks of a volcanic doom."

"Surely not so abysmal a meaning," Dieter said waving a hand dismissively, "While I find fortune tellers intriguing individuals and have likely lost more silver to them than a man ought to most tell only what the customer wishes to hear. No doubt such doom sayings were for effect alone!"

"Yes, those who claim connection to the mystic so often wrap themselves in ambiguities to heighten their own seeming importance," Cass looked over at the Wyrmar Guru who did not catch his eye, though Markus seemed offended by his father's words he kept silent.
"I share your opinion of most fortune-tellers one encounters, my lords," Athelmere said, "meaning no disrespect to Lady R'jas, but there was apparently something about this that set it apart from the usual fairground charlatan's gobbledegook. Perhaps it is merely a very skilled con artist, but I cannot help but wonder. I know there is real magic in the world, and it always pays to be prudent."

"There are volcanoes in Farridon," said Tempest, thoughtfully, "though not so large or so active as in some parts. The rest of it, though - the lumberjack, the fugitive, the painting and so on, it's hard to make any real sense of it."

"I shall do some research into sky-stones at least," said Elwyr. "Perhaps no scholar has worked them out, but there is no harm in being as well-informed as possible."


Shall we skip forward to dinner?
Sure, although it's not a particularly formal dinner on this occasion. Just the odd course between dances for those who fancy it.

[lt_murgen]

A single, simply dressed man in his sixties made his way quietly into the Sea Palace. A frequent visitor, the functionaries granted his request not to be announced. The ball was a festive event, but he felt little joy. He was here for the rememberance. 50 years ago, his life took a turn he never expected. He adjusted the half-mask concealing the left side of his face, and tugged on the glove on his left hand. Regrasping the ornate, bejeweled cane, he moved unobtrusively over to get a drink. He only hoped nothing catastrophic would happen, for his sister’s sake and her family's.

He remained content, for the moment, to merely observe the event his brother-in-law had planned.

[DurkBlanston]

"I share your opinion of most fortune-tellers one encounters, my lords," Athelmere said, "meaning no disrespect to Lady R'jas, but there was apparently something about this that set it apart from the usual fairground charlatan's gobbledegook. Perhaps it is merely a very skilled con artist, but I cannot help but wonder. I know there is real magic in the world, and it always pays to be prudent."

"There are volcanoes in Farridon," said Tempest, thoughtfully, "though not so large or so active as in some parts. The rest of it, though - the lumberjack, the fugitive, the painting and so on, it's hard to make any real sense of it."

"I shall do some research into sky-stones at least," said Elwyr. "Perhaps no scholar has worked them out, but there is no harm in being as well-informed as possible."


"Many fortune tellers are charlatans, as I am not one of these I take no offense," the Princess said, the slight edge in her voice seeming to be directed at the Lord Protector Cassius more than the Jarrland King, "As I imagine Agni would not either."

The Wyrmar Guru only dipped his head slightly in deference to the Far Western Princess. She was royalty, he was only a spiritual adviser to the Ameer.

"The teller likely used such words only to confuse any prediction made to the point where any event could be deemed fitting her 'prophecy'. Sky-stones aside it sounds like any other garbled prediction made by some self-proclaimed mystic," Cass said, meeting the Princess' gaze.

He already didn't like the Wyrmar filling his son's head with teachings of the Wyrm Below, now this foreign woman had swept in and reinforced the Guru's mystical mumbojumbo and further infatuated young Markus with the mystic and drawn him away from the study and knowledge of rulership and governance.

"It certainly sounds interesting, charade or not!" Dieter stepped in, attempting to defuse the situation, "I know I will be interested to hear any knowledge the Prince Elwyr might bring to light," the hefty Councillor smiled with a friendly intent, "I suppose, your Lordship willing, we ought to join in with the dancing and the merriment and leave his Grace to the duties of a host."

The Princess from the West kept her eyes locked with the Lord Protector while young Markus moved closer to Agni, who put a hand on the young man's shoulder.

"Yes," Cassius said at last, breaking the awkward moment that hung in the air, "Let us join the Ball. Thank you again for hosting us King Athelmere," Cassius dipped his head towards the Jarrland King.

[Aedilred]

As the dances begin, Clovis claims Emryn for the first dance. Luckily, his mother had insisted on teaching him some of the more common dances, and he recognizes this one at least well enough to avoid stepping on anyone's toes. As they spin around the floor, he ventures a conversational gambit.
"So, it sounded like you and that little princessling have a history?"
"Only a little. They live in Aus-Teire most of the time, so we don't see a lot of them, but they're still cousins. I find it hard to keep track of them, to be honest. I'm the oldest of the king's grandchildren, but he has... twelve more, I think? Most of them in Aus-Teire, but four in Ashenia, and my brother too, of course." She grins. "And that's not counting my second cousins, who are like his adopted grandchildren - there are four of them as well. That one was Huanle, I think, but that's just by process of elimination since she mentioned her sisters by name, so if she was fibbing, who knows?"

[Aedilred]

"Oh, you're cousins. That makes a lot more sense. I just got thrown by the fact that she arrived with the Quzare's delegation. Though given why I'm here, you'd think I'd realize that Jarrland and the Qzare would have forged marriage alliances of their own."

"You mean to say all this gallantry has just been politics?" she asked, feigning shock. "For shame. To tell the truth, I don't know how much of an 'alliance' it was between aunt Ambryn and the Qzare. You might have heard the story, it's quite famous in Jarrland. They met in this hall at my father's wedding - Tailong objected, he was still a prince then, and demanded my father fight him, but aunt Ambryn stepped in and thrashed him. Tailong fell madly in love with her and courted her for seven years with all sorts of adventures going on until they got married in Raaneka. It's a longer story than that, of course, but that's the gist of it. Have you heard the poem The King Across the Water? There's a passage about it in there."

[QuintonBeck]

Athelmere tried to conceal a mild amusement. The Triumvirate prided itself on its adoption of democracy, yet if he was not mistaken each of the senators before him was of royal blood themselves. Suppressing a sudden perverse desire to address them by their inherited titles, he nodded to each of them in turn.

"Senators, a pleasure to meet you. Welcome to Horbeach. May I introduce my heir, Alfmark? Aluic met him at the Summit, but before long he will be running this kingdom, inasmuch as he doesn't already."

Once Alfmark would have protested, but he simply smiled tightly and nodded. "Senators, welcome. If you should need anything, please do not hesitate to ask."

"Thank you," the king said in response to Aluic's congratulations. "Alfmark did much of the work on the administration, I must admit."

"He is too modest," Alfmark said, shaking his head. "When he came to the throne there were barely fifty thousand people subject to this crown. Now, there are nearly ten times as many, and all of them more prosperous."

"There is still much work to be done, though," said Athelmere.

"There always is, but it could not be accomplished without what you have already achieved. You have built a kingdom, and I will build a city. As you will have seen, Senators, the core of the city has now achieved a degree of permanence, thanks in no small part to the Woodwind architects. In the coming years we plan to build and expand yet further, to turn Horbeach into a true capital for a kingdom of this size, and the greatest metropolis south of Fiassa's Fast."

"Building up is often just as much the challenge as building out. The Triumvirate has sought to establish greater cities akin to Miji Mkuu for the people to prosper in the wake of the new Triad Council and it has been quite the challenge, especially with K'Braashriix's integration. A genius people the kobolds, masters of melody, but getting architects or teachers down into their tunnels has proved quite an obstacle," Aluic chuckled lightly and the two senators smiled along with him.

"I shall leave you both to your duties my lords, I'm afraid our journey south was rather long and I find my throat rather parched and my stomach empty. Thank you again for hosting this magnificent event, the Triumvirate is pleased to see the Grand Balls of Telluris continue to live on."

With that the Senators departed the dais and made their way over to the serving tables.


@ Aedilred Well technically, Zaafarani is only married into royal blood. Of course, it's Ignato royal blood which by old laws makes her royal :smallwink:

Anyone feel free to approach the Triumvirate Senators.

[TheDarkDM]

A fog rose from the bay as the sun sank towards the horizon (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ccN4wfF5gkk), nearly concealing the ship that approached from the east. Its black hull towered over the waves, three decks of oars with another deck above. Crimson sails bore the emblem of Tzalteclan, and the golden dragon masthead that stretched from the waterline left little doubt as to the mammoth ship's passengers. Passersby spat in disgust or hurried on their way as the galleon came to a halt at one of Horbeach's waiting docks, fear and revulsion filling them in equal measure in the presence of a Tzaltec slave ship. The streets were deserted by the time the procession descended from the main deck, leaving none to accost them as they mounted palanquins and sped towards the Sea Palace.


*****

The doors to the great hall opened to admit a procession of fire. Nezetkhamun led as he always did, clad in a robe of black silk scales, each one affixed with a ruby and shrouded in golden thread. He had foregone the massive crown of affairs of state, and instead wore a broad golden circlet, the points curling like flames through greying black hair, a rearing dragon upon its brow. Though age had touched him, the Teotlkan was still a powerful man, his back was unbent beneath the weight of his finery. Flanking him were a pair of women, their faces shrouded in crimson veils. While their faces may have been concealed, the rest of their attire seemed determined to compensate, as the sheer red silks and golden bangles left little to the imagination. Behind the Teotlkan and his attendants strode a trio of younger men, two in their forties and one clearly just entering his twenties. Their golden eyes and cold, statuesque beauty marked them as children of the Teotlkan, more than their garb ever could. The eldest wore clothes similar to his father's, though his were blood red and devoid of scales. Instead, his robe was embroidered in such a way as to seem aflame, golden thread dancing wildly in the firelight. The middle son was dressed more severely, in red and black, the sharp lines of his tunic bringing to mind nothing so much as a military uniform. Beneath the robe his chest was bare above a broad black belt, revealing the chiseled physique that could only come from years of training in ruinous heat. The third, contrary to his father, was dressed all in gold, with only a lining of rubies around his hem and sleeves to represent the traditional Tzaltec red. Almost a dozen men followed behind this assembly of eastern nobility, and though they carried no weapons their stance and their empty stares betrayed the lot as hardened killers.

The Teotlkan's guards dispersed through the room while he and his sons approached Athelmere and his family. He greeted the Jarr king with a respectful nod of his head, his face carefully neutral.

"Greetings and good fortune, King Athelmere. Your gracious invitation was much appreciated."

Teotlkan Nezetkhamun (66)
Tlapepentli Tefnakht (43, discovered Dragon's Blood)
Tlapepentli Senusret (42)
Tlapepentli Rahotep (21)

[lt_murgen]

The Tzalteclan procession left, leaving the massive ship moored in the harbor. The guards and sailors on the deck looked out over the harbor, seeing the many varieties of ship designs- triremes and coasters, AQUA merchant junks, combat dhows, and Guilderene galleys. From the docks, many small rowboats were hauling barges of crates and barrels out to the ships. Hours passed, and the small boats put out lanterns and signal lights, but continued on.
A rowboat towing an empty barge pulled up alongside the vast ship. A bipedal looking rabbit, standing well over a meter tall, called up to them, “You a transport ship for nobles going to the Grand Ball? We have some beer, wine, and high end food for the officers and crew! A gift!”

******At the event******
Martin Grant-Tremblor, his wife Yvinia, and their children (17, 12 and 7) arrived. Life as a governor of a far-flung colony of Niemidaland had done him good. He was technically a vassal of the Jarrs, but they let him run the place more or less on his own. He and his wife seemed happy, though she cast wistful looks at the veritablte horde of children as she sent hers off to play.


Governor Martin-Grant Tremblor: Half Quill, half Islander, Cousin to Queen Tempest. Born 393.
Yvinia Grant-Tremblor. Guilderene Princess, distantly related to Inigo the Fireheart. Born 397.
Child #1- age 17, Ginger Grant-Tremblor. Bronze skin and black hair artificially streaked with red and purple, bright green eyes
Child #2- age 12, Maximillian Grant-Tremblor (Max). Similar to sister
Child #3- age 7, Gilligan Grant-Tremblor. Similar to sister
Ooc: the children are all the same family, adopted by Martin and Yvinia. A story?

[Elemental]

At long last, the King of Ashenia finally arrived at the ball having been delayed in the road due to poor directions. Still, he was here now and the delay in no way tarnished his royal image. He strode into the hall accompanied by two servants carrying a large painting covered by a fine white cloth and a third bearing an easel.
Tansan himself was attired in a robe of white silk embroidered in silver with a design of eagles and falcons and a stole of saffron silk embroidered in black with geometric patterns down the centre. He wore a cape of dark purple and instead of the Royal Crown he wore an unadorned silver circlet. Around his neck were hung two mithril chains supporting a large diamond pendant.
When it was his turn to greet King Athelmere, his servants set up the easel and placed the painting on it before kneeling.
"Athelmere of Jarrland, it is a pleasure to be invited to your court. I must, however, apologise for my unseemly lateness and more importantly for the absence of Princess Eirwynn. She wished to attend, but as little Katerin is not yet a year old, she thought it best to remain in Ashenia."

[Morph Bark]

"So why are you over here playing the flower girl? Have you been put in charge, or did you sneak off?"

"Charge!" Huanle exclaimed happily, as if she meant to cheer on some invisible knight in shining armor, a prince charming on a white horse. She turned and ran past her and ran circles around the King and Queen before crawling underneath a table and disappearing behind the cloth.



"No caragita would be safe!" Athelmere said, with a broad grin.

"Not just the caragita," Atheldynn said, smirking at his sister. "Fifty grandchildren, give or take, if each of the girls is as... prolific as you two. That's enough for every crown in Telluris. They may have ousted grandmother's blood from Tangarotha, but we can conquer the rest of the world in our own way, without even taking mine and Eirwynn's into account."

"Four for Eirwynn already!" Athelmere exclaimed. "I must admit I was rather surprised how soon they started appearing, considering it's Ashenia. It seems the Grant women have a way of bringing out the best - or perhaps the worst - in even the most reserved of men. Still, I must admit, girl, while I miss having you around, I am glad that I don't need to worry myself about actually raising any of the children currently running about the place. Doing that once was more than enough, I think. I can only imagine what it must be like for you..."

"Oh, Lord no!" Ambryn laughed, a look of shock nevertheless on her face. "I'd hope to have some rest when I'm old! I guess I should ensure none of them visit Diamondhead. Those rabbit people seem to have rubbed off on Tailong, and with the influx of Islanders it's surely not going to improve." She play-punched her brother.

"I'll be sure to send some of my girls your way when they're a little older. Fengbao is already saying she wants to sail the world like the Grants and her parents before her. Still, I hadn't thought Eirwynn would get four children. I wonder if that Toranath boy was left behind in Raaneka by accident after the last Games."



******At the event******
Martin Grant-Tremblor, his wife Yvinia, and their children (17, 12 and 7) arrived. Life as a governor of a far-flung colony of Niemidaland had done him good. He was technically a vassal of the Jarrs, but they let him run the place more or less on his own. He and his wife seemed happy, though she cast wistful looks at the veritablte horde of children as she sent hers off to play.


Governor Martin-Grant Tremblor: Half Quill, half Islander, Cousin to Queen Tempest. Born 393.
Yvinia Grant-Tremblor. Guilderene Princess, distantly related to Inigo the Fireheart. Born 397.
Child #1- age 17, Ginger Grant-Tremblor. Bronze skin and black hair artificially streaked with red and purple, bright green eyes
Child #2- age 12, Maximillian Grant-Tremblor (Max). Similar to sister
Child #3- age 7, Gilligan Grant-Tremblor. Similar to sister
Ooc: the children are all the same family, adopted by Martin and Yvinia. A story?

"Martin!" A large set of doors on the side of the hall had opened to let in the Qzare and his entourage, and Tailong had immediately spotted his old friend. He was dressed in blue, purple and ivory with silver stitching--a wingless silver dragon on his chest breathing fire--and his left arm clad in gleaming orichalcum plate. A sword hung by his side, more for decoration than practice, but spears were readily close by as two guards in half-plate followed suit. He held Fengbao's hand so she wouldn't run off, while Tianshi walked on his other side, the two little princesses wearing dresses of blue and white, edged with purple frills and silver thread. Fengbao's wild hair had been partially tamed and put into a pair of tails, while Tianshi was visibly different. The eldest of the Li princesses wore her hair short with a pink clip holding back her bangs, but it was of a striking silver colour--as if the dwarves had spun it out of mithril, or her hair was a hundred years older than the rest of her.

I was going to say, a 17 year old child would have been born before they'd even met. :smalltongue:

Also, Niemidaland is a vassal of the Qzare directly, as Jarrland couldn't have vassals at the time.

[lt_murgen]

"Martin!"
I was going to say, a 17 year old child would have been born before they'd even met. :smalltongue:

Also, Niemidaland is a vassal of the Qzare directly, as Jarrland couldn't have vassals at the time.


Martin interrupted his wife from shooing off the children, taking the chance to introduce them to the Qzare.

"Tailong! Cousin!" Marking greeted the man warmly. Yes, they weren't really related, but Tailong had been around Islanders log enough to understand their concept of family included those who shed blood together.

Yvinia greeted the man in Guilderen fashion, ever the proper one to her husbands overtyl friendly ways. Ginger, the eldest daughter, followed her mother's lead. Max held back, cautious. Gilligan, however, couldn't help himself. The boy simple didn't have a tact filter. He shook both the girls' hands and exclaimed to Tianshi, "Your hair is amazing! It's so shiny!"

Tailong took note of the three children. All three were clearly related to each other, but none bore even a scant resemblence to their parents.



Sorry about that misunderstanding on his allegiance. No big deal. Also, you are correct, she was born before they met.

[RandoMan]

High King Konhagen Ringmaker and High Queen Kaitlind Gemgrinder arrived at the Ball somewhat later than the other guests, their journey had been slowed down by bickering between the Queen and her brother, the newly appointed Reichtin. The Reichtin had insisted the Queen not travel to the Ball, having heard of the dangers to have occurred at the last one held, and encouraged her to allow her husband to go along alone. The Queen had refused, not out of loyalty or a sense of duty to her husband but simply because she did not trust the Commoner King, as Konhagen was often called, to make rational or intelligent decisions for the good of the realm. It was a common held belief among the Clan Heads that the lowborn Konhagen was unfit to serve as High King and that his appointment had only been allowed thanks to the influence of the Gemgrinder and Stonesinger Clans that had supported him and would serve only to give rise to a new Ringmaker line via his progeny that should truly retake the mantle of High King and all that it entailed.

Konhagen himself was tangentially aware of such feelings towards his reign but these things did not concern him. He enjoyed the lavish lifestyle heaped upon him by the Clans and took no offense at the direction provided by his wife and his advisers. They allowed him to occasionally pursue matters of his own interest, such as the Paragon Project, as publicity acts of the Common King returning to the roots of the Common Dwarf, but by and large he was directed and controlled and he was okay with that situation. It was a vast improvement to his life as a lowcaste member of Clan Rocksplitter, and he didn't dare disturb his position by objecting to the situation he now found himself in.

The two Dwarven Royals soon found themselves approaching the King of the Jarrs, Athelmere. The two Royal Houses had been friends for a long time, even by Dwarf standards, and it was said it was in part due to the King's Scriveners that the Line Readers had discovered Konhagen's connection to Kalderdan, so for that alone Konhagen owed this realm a debt of gratitude, not even to mention their aid in discovering a new region following the wresting away of Norogh by the Pavonian Warlords.

"Greetings to your grace King Athelmere, King of the Carmine Sea, King of the Jarrs, Venns, and Slyphids, Prince of Farridon," Konhagen said, clearly repeating something he had been coached on, "It is an honor and a privilege to walk the Halls of Horbeach, Halls belonging to our dear friends above. We of Mularuhm humbly thank you for hosting us this day."

[WaylanderX]

"We aren't planning anything father," the two girls smiled innocently, but their father's knowing eye may have caught them glancing at the younger males guests attendant at the Ball when they thought he wasn't looking.

"Yes, Your Majesty, I believe those were her thoughts," the Countess leaned in closer and spoke more quietly, "And Her Grace wished to be in the north should Prince Daiki's plan fall through in some unforeseeable manner."


I don't know if you saw but I'm attempting to forcibly colonize Galie-Noiret under Pryonia so should Wombat agree to exchanging Wenyavuk when I then join you and get Tekorva I can establish a Great Kingdom and be a Greater Vassal. I know you were planning to help Chief get Pryonia and I'd be happy to assist with any venues there as well and let Chief get TPs down in Galie but I saw this as an opportunity to get a GK that I couldn't let it go by.

Have you heard anything from Wombat about Wenyavuk? He hasn't PMed me back about anything :(


Wayve laughed loudly and winked cheerfully at his daughters.

"Remember though, both of them have to be approved by your mother and I."

At the words of the Countess, Wayve face grew grim.

"Prince Daiki's plan.... A dangerous plan at best, at the worst, the whole central continent could rise up. I hope that she knows what she is getting in to. Not that I told her so at least a dozen times. I pray to Ashmar that she is successful."

I haven't heard anything yet from Wombat, so maybe you should send him a PM. It is to you that he has to hand over Wenyavuk. That said, I am not against providing some compasation to Wombat aswel if that is necesairy. And for Galie-Noiret, that's no problem, Chief should have claimed it last round, but he didn't, so that's his bad. And I have some continency plans for him anyway, including above Pryonia. However, if you get Galie-Noiret, you'll get access to the materials to create gunpowder and the technology to make it. I wish to make a deal so I can get my hands on it. I mean, I'm giving you a whole region, so we should be able to work something out right? :smallwink:. One last thing of note: If you make a Great Kingdom, I wouldn't be able to vassalize you, due to the total number of regions being lower then 12. However, if I vassalize you and give Pryonia to Chief, our little group has 12, so you can form a Great Kingdom then. In short, please wait with making a Great Kingdom after becoming a vassal.


"Indeed. The Blazing Avatar has been invited, although hopefully if she does make an appearance it will be only as the Avatar and not the Lord of Fire himself as last time." He looked slightly grim for a moment. "Speaking of which, there will be a ceremony of remembrance later for those who died fifty years ago. I know about your uncle Riphal, but if there are any other fellows as yet unknown to me who were lost then, please notify my aides and their names will be added to the list of those to be remembered."


Cloudiz aren't normally a problem The only time it was was for Eirwynn, who had been betrothed to Zhuang before he turned out to be the worst person in the world, so finding someone who didn't remind her of him was important...
In terms of available adults in that case I have the two children of the Duke of Vennland (one boy, one girl), who are both in their early-mid-20s. They're both first/second cousins of the main-line royals. Also their half-cousin Wiltor, who's the first lord of Jarrland, aged about 30, cousin by marriage to the crown but no blood relation or claim to the throne. There's also the Horwiks who are Athelmere's first cousins on his mother's side, a 30-year-old girl and 18-year-old boy... and the claimant Earl of Isling, who's 35, and a second cousin once-removed of the king: he has a very distant claim.

Trade-wise I have Quartz, Toma Nuts and Dyes. Happy to take Furs or Gold in exchange.

"A ceremony for the deceased..."

Wayve solemly shut his eyes for a second, and lighty touched his forehead as if in prayer.

"As far as I know, no other Hurosha men or women were killed in the incident, although at least two score were gravely wounded. You have my gratitude for organizing this, King Athelmere."

Alrighty, what about Merana (age 39 but looks like 20) to either the claimant Earl or the 18 year old boy? I mean, both is possible due to her aging slowly. And tradewise, how does Toma Nuts for Gold sound?


"Not your fault," Louisa responded. "Your appearance has some...unfortunate... resonances in Pavonian minds."

Rove nodded politely.

"Might I inquire as of the specifics of those resonances? We of Hurosha would not want unnecesairy tension between us and your people."

[Aedilred]

"I suppose I'm a bit biased, since my own parents were a marriage alliance to unite Pavonia and they seem to get along just fine. As for your aunt's story, I'm afraid I haven't heard it before. Maybe you could recite the poem for me later, I'd love to hear it. Sounds exactly like something out of one of the old tales. I'm afraid I don't have anything nearly so exciting in my immediate family. Though there's Aunt Sigrun. She's married to Heinrich Velpschnoodle, who won her hand in this big moopsball tournament Grandfather threw to celebrate the unification of Pavonia.
"Most of the marriages in my family were arranged too, and they get on well enough, although some of them chose their own partners. My grandparents married at least as much for love as for political advantage, I think. Reciting the whole poem might be a bit beyond me, since it's very long... maybe uncle Elwyr can remember it? Or you could ask cousin Martin to tell you the story in his own words."


As the first dance ends, Clovis escorts Emryn to the buffet line, for both to stock up on snacks. As they wait in line, he addresses the Jarrish princess.

"Out of curiosity, have you ever considered what you'd do with the Kingdom Of The Carmine Sea if you became Queen?"
"Not really, now you mention it. It is so unlikely I should ever be Queen that it hasn't really crossed my mind. There would be, what, ten people in the succession ahead of me, and most of them younger than me... I suppose if it ever did happen I should continue my grandfather's policies: exploration, expansion, development of trade and diplomatic ties, and so forth."


Elsewhen and Elsewhere, Grand Duke William and Grand Duchess Louisa meet in private with King Athelmere and Atheldyne.
William opens the ball. "Your Majesty, our two realms have long enjoyed friendship. We have been united by common interest and mutual affection. It is my hope tonight to transform that friendship into a true alliance. I propose that our realms enter into a pact of mutual nonaggression and defense. You shall not be bound to join any wars that I initiate, nor I any war you initiate, but should any invader enter your territory, I shall ride to your defense, and you alike shall ride to my aid if my realm comes under siege.
In addition, I understand that Tzalteclan is at present under your wrath, and I am prepared to cancel our trade contracts with them. Father's choice to trade with slavers never sat well with me anyway.
I am also open to negotiating trades with Carmine provinces, which might be quite profitable for all concerned.
Finally, I would like to request access to your designs for Ocean-Faring Ships. Pavonians have never loved the sea, but with our interests expanding beyond the Skywall, we will need to master this frontier as we did others.
These are the points of interest on my side of the table, what would you like that we could provide?
Athelmere gave a slight smile. "Relations with Tzalteclan are a little cool, it is true, but there is no open hostility, even if I take no action to discourage privateers from my kingdom to raid their shipping. The institution of slavery there is a philosophically difficult one, and many would say that most of my subjects are no more free than their slaves. I disagree, for my people have always placed a high price on their liberty and have submitted themselves to my rule rather than being subdued. What I have heard from the Shinan has suggested that the public image presented by Tzaltecan is also less accurate than it might be.

"Still, however, I shall not ask you to cancel trade with them, even if I have no plans to trade with them myself while slavery remains in force. My nephew in the Glazfell trades for Tzaltec slaves openly, so I cannot in good conscience demand anyone else fall into accord with my views - although I would take it as a compliment if you refrained from such activity yourselves.

"Regarding an alliance: that is something I believe would be of benefit to both our peoples. The major issue of contention is that of Norogh, as the Mularuhm dwarves have long been our allies. That I was unable to assist King Kalderdan and that my inaction may have led to the death not only of our oldest friend but of so many of his people weighs heavy on my conscience, and I should feel yet more guilty in entering into alliance with the kingdom that caused it. As such, while I would welcome the principle of an alliance, my agreement would be largely contingent on a reconciliation between and the approval of the High King.

"On trade more generally: I see no reason not to furnish you with the ability to create ocean-going ships, although by letter of the Imperial charter I should need the Qzare's approval. Though many of our own natural and cultivated resources are currently being traded at full capacity, I should certainly be interested in gaining access to Hellstone."


The Teotlkan's guards dispersed through the room while he and his sons approached Athelmere and his family. He greeted the Jarr king with a respectful nod of his head, his face carefully neutral.

"Greetings and good fortune, King Athelmere. Your gracious invitation was much appreciated."
Athelmere nodded in the same manner in return, thankful he had had the foresight to rearrange the palace decorations. "Welcome to Jarrland, Teotlkan." He cast his eye over the rest of the delegation: the Tzaltec were a fine-looking people, whatever his disagreements with them. "It is a great honour to welcome sovereigns from all corners of Telluris here. I hope you find the Ball to your satisfaction."


At long last, the King of Ashenia finally arrived at the ball having been delayed in the road due to poor directions. Still, he was here now and the delay in no way tarnished his royal image. He strode into the hall accompanied by two servants carrying a large painting covered by a fine white cloth and a third bearing an easel.
Tansan himself was attired in a robe of white silk embroidered in silver with a design of eagles and falcons and a stole of saffron silk embroidered in black with geometric patterns down the centre. He wore a cape of dark purple and instead of the Royal Crown he wore an unadorned silver circlet. Around his neck were hung two mithril chains supporting a large diamond pendant.
When it was his turn to greet King Athelmere, his servants set up the easel and placed the painting on it before kneeling.
"Athelmere of Jarrland, it is a pleasure to be invited to your court. I must, however, apologise for my unseemly lateness and more importantly for the absence of Princess Eirwynn. She wished to attend, but as little Katerin is not yet a year old, she thought it best to remain in Ashenia."
"The pleasure is mine at having you here at long last, and no apology is necessary for the timing of your arrival," Athelmere said. "It is a shame Eirwynn could not accompany you, but I understand the demands of child-rearing and that travel over such distances is not always possible, no matter how much we might wish it. I trust your journey was pleasant, or at least bearable?"


"Oh, Lord no!" Ambryn laughed, a look of shock nevertheless on her face. "I'd hope to have some rest when I'm old! I guess I should ensure none of them visit Diamondhead. Those rabbit people seem to have rubbed off on Tailong, and with the influx of Islanders it's surely not going to improve." She play-punched her brother.

"I'll be sure to send some of my girls your way when they're a little older. Fengbao is already saying she wants to sail the world like the Grants and her parents before her. Still, I hadn't thought Eirwynn would get four children. I wonder if that Toranath boy was left behind in Raaneka by accident after the last Games."
"Spending time in Raaneka certainly does seem to be conducive to that sort of thing, which isn't terribly surprising," Tempest said, and continued slightly wistfully, "In fact I'm pretty certain it was during the Fourth Games that your brother-"

"-Yes, thank you, mother," Atheldynn interrupted before that particular anecdote could be detailed.

"Still, I imagine Ashenite men are much like any other behind closed doors. I imagine Eirwynn will have told you more about that than she ever would me..."

"They do spend a lot of time around horses, from what I gather," Athelmere said. "Maybe something of the stallion has rubbed off on them despite their public attitude."


"Greetings to your grace King Athelmere, King of the Carmine Sea, King of the Jarrs, Venns, and Slyphids, Prince of Farridon," Konhagen said, clearly repeating something he had been coached on, "It is an honor and a privilege to walk the Halls of Horbeach, Halls belonging to our dear friends above. We of Mularuhm humbly thank you for hosting us this day."
"My friend, you need not trouble yourself with a full list of titles!" Athelmere laughed.

"Especially given they're such a mouthful," Tempest added.

"The Queen's are even longer, if you include all of them," Alfmark observed drily. "Although I don't think anyone ever has, probably for that reason."

"In any case, it is an honour to have you here, lord king," Athelmere said. "If you should need anything, please do not hesitate to ask."



Alrighty, what about Merana (age 39 but looks like 20) to either the claimant Earl or the 18 year old boy? I mean, both is possible due to her aging slowly. And tradewise, how does Toma Nuts for Gold sound?
OK; le'ts make it Eldred (the claimant earl) since he's more urgently in need of a bride. He has a very distant claim to the throne, but it shouldn't ever be relevant... I've done very little to develop his character, albeit the reason he's a claimant earl rather than in place is that his cousin (the previous earl) was recently exeucted for treason - hooray! - so the king's been debating whether to allow it to pass on. I'll probably give him the earldom as a wedding present in that case.

Toma Nuts for Gold sounds fine. If you send the gold back to Farridon (where the nuts come from) that should work, since I'm already importing it to Jarrland.

[Reggiejam]

Wayve laughed loudly and winked cheerfully at his daughters.

"Remember though, both of them have to be approved by your mother and I."

At the words of the Countess, Wayve face grew grim.

"Prince Daiki's plan.... A dangerous plan at best, at the worst, the whole central continent could rise up. I hope that she knows what she is getting in to. Not that I told her so at least a dozen times. I pray to Ashmar that she is successful."

I haven't heard anything yet from Wombat, so maybe you should send him a PM. It is to you that he has to hand over Wenyavuk. That said, I am not against providing some compasation to Wombat aswel if that is necesairy. And for Galie-Noiret, that's no problem, Chief should have claimed it last round, but he didn't, so that's his bad. And I have some continency plans for him anyway, including above Pryonia. However, if you get Galie-Noiret, you'll get access to the materials to create gunpowder and the technology to make it. I wish to make a deal so I can get my hands on it. I mean, I'm giving you a whole region, so we should be able to work something out right? :smallwink:. One last thing of note: If you make a Great Kingdom, I wouldn't be able to vassalize you, due to the total number of regions being lower then 12. However, if I vassalize you and give Pryonia to Chief, our little group has 12, so you can form a Great Kingdom then. In short, please wait with making a Great Kingdom after becoming a vassal.


"Of course Father, both," the two girls smiled sweetly, but it masked something...

Wayve had no doubt heard of the ebbing flow of tiredness that swept through the halls of the Ice Palace of late. It had started a few years ago with this Countess' own daughter and despite shifting from minor scandal amongst the nobles and becoming whispers amongst the servants, it had not ended. The Heartwaste buzzed with the rumor, that the twins were afflicted with the mixed blood of Fae and Werekin. That it had been enhanced by the addition of Cloudiz blood, that is had created something even more potent. No one dared say the word, not about the Queen's daughters, but the thought was common among many of them. Vampyre.

Valineth had expressed concern about her daughters to Wayve but the royal couple had been unable to catch the girls in anything and no definitive evidence had been presented of anything overly dangerous. To make a complicated matter even moreso the twins had been spending more and more time in Yorukuni and among the nobles of the Heartwaste, avoiding prolonged time among their mother or father. The girls still seemed to care for their mother and father but they kept secrets and avoided questions, there was a secret held by them, something no one but the two of them knew.

"She didn't support it at first, but Daiki insisted the time to act was now. He used to be the supreme commander of the Yorukuni Armies before Her Grace raised him to the position of Prince. I am not of a military mind Your Majesty, I could not speak of Daiki's tactical plan, but I do share your concern for the repercussions this action might have. I too pray that Her Grace does not cause what has so long been sought to be avoided by our nation."


Wombat and I came to a deal in a PM where I owe him a "big favor" which could be anything ranging from project help to military help or whatever we both agree falls in the parameters when he asks for it. I'm not thrilled with the vagueness but it may mean nothing ever gets called on so :P

Obviously, I'd be thrilled to let you set up TPs for the materials or trade it to you or whatever.

Well I won't be able to form a GK until I come over to be a vassal to you so as to get Tekorva anyway so that'll be fine. Chief and I can come in, you can Empire-ify and then I'll Great Kingdom it :)

[Morph Bark]

At long last, the King of Ashenia finally arrived at the ball having been delayed in the road due to poor directions. Still, he was here now and the delay in no way tarnished his royal image. He strode into the hall accompanied by two servants carrying a large painting covered by a fine white cloth and a third bearing an easel.
Tansan himself was attired in a robe of white silk embroidered in silver with a design of eagles and falcons and a stole of saffron silk embroidered in black with geometric patterns down the centre. He wore a cape of dark purple and instead of the Royal Crown he wore an unadorned silver circlet. Around his neck were hung two mithril chains supporting a large diamond pendant.
When it was his turn to greet King Athelmere, his servants set up the easel and placed the painting on it before kneeling.
"Athelmere of Jarrland, it is a pleasure to be invited to your court. I must, however, apologise for my unseemly lateness and more importantly for the absence of Princess Eirwynn. She wished to attend, but as little Katerin is not yet a year old, she thought it best to remain in Ashenia."

Ambryn's face brightened when she spotted the Ashenian delegation, but her expression fell when she heard that her sister could not attend. "A shame she could not be here. We haven't seen each other for so long, perhaps I should go to Ashenia for a visit sometime, bring the girls if they're old enough. How's she doing? And her children?"



Martin interrupted his wife from shooing off the children, taking the chance to introduce them to the Qzare.

"Tailong! Cousin!" Marking greeted the man warmly. Yes, they weren't really related, but Tailong had been around Islanders log enough to understand their concept of family included those who shed blood together.

Yvinia greeted the man in Guilderen fashion, ever the proper one to her husbands overtyl friendly ways. Ginger, the eldest daughter, followed her mother's lead. Max held back, cautious. Gilligan, however, couldn't help himself. The boy simple didn't have a tact filter. He shook both the girls' hands and exclaimed to Tianshi, "Your hair is amazing! It's so shiny!"

Tailong took note of the three children. All three were clearly related to each other, but none bore even a scant resemblence to their parents.

Tailong grasped Martin's underarm with a big smile on his face breaking through his red beard. "It's been too long, my friend. How's hunting in Niemidaland? Yvinia! Ever the gorgeous one, my dear." He cast a curious look at the three children and looked at Martin for clarifications.

Tianshi seemed to have been caught off guard by the boy's exhuberance. She looked at her father as if for guidance, but found no clue there either as Tailong was occupied with Martin. "I... thank you, my lord." The girl said courteously, unconsciously touching her hair.

"She's breast, y'know!" Fengbao proclaimed, proudly and loudly.

This seemed to throw Tianshi a bit further even as she struggled to maintain composure and inadvertently smacked Fengbao on the mouth. "That's blessed!"

"Bowww!" Fengbao cried. "Bless your ugly face!"

RPing a six-year-old noble girl with Tianshi's personality is hard. At least I've RP'd characters like Fengbao and Huanle before!

[RandoMan]

From near the dais, a Cyaqueet clad in robes of quartered blue, black, red, and silver approaches Konhagen.

"Greetings, Lord Konhagen. It is... intriguing, to see the crown of Muhlahrum once again taking an interest in the world outside its caves. I would hope, though, that Novorogh is not to be once again rent asunder by warfare?"

"Not should discussions with your fair nation of Pavonia go as hoped," the Queen answered from beside the High King who himself seemed a bit caught off guard in the situation.

"It is good you have found us, we of Mularuhm often have trouble discerning overworlders, though many of my clan, myself included, do recognize the colors of the invaders who slaughtered so many of our kin and paid nothing in turn for their lives."

The High King glanced nervously at his wife, unsure where she was going, but keeping quiet as he so often did.

"We do not wish further harm befall any Dwarf, but to have so many of our young warriors tossed upon the blades of over-expansionist overworlders and to then have naught but a ceasement of hostilities as retribution disturbs many in Mularuhm. Yet, High King Konhagen has calmed these bloodthirsty hearts, he has talked myself out of pursuing some scheme of vengeance. Instead, he has proposed an exchange, that the dead might be honored and hostility forgotten so that friendship might shine through. The High King, my dearest husband, requests that to resolve the chilled relations between our nations that Mularuhm be granted full and exclusive rights to the trading posts within Norogh, to be assigned to the resources therein as the Greater Kingdom of Mularuhm sees fit. If such a request were granted many could be appeased and the lives lost could be honored and allow our nation to move forward in relations with the Pavonian people."

Konhagen nodded solemnly as his wife finished speaking but said nothing, awaiting the reply.




"My friend, you need not trouble yourself with a full list of titles!" Athelmere laughed.

"Especially given they're such a mouthful," Tempest added.

"The Queen's are even longer, if you include all of them," Alfmark observed drily. "Although I don't think anyone ever has, probably for that reason."

"In any case, it is an honour to have you here, lord king," Athelmere said. "If you should need anything, please do not hesitate to ask."


"It is tradition in Mularuhm to use full titles in first meetings," High Queen Gemgrinder spoke up, "We Dwarves are so long lived, and the processes of mining and farming so slow that whatever can be done to pass the time is done," she smiled, "Of course, this is our first time traveling in official capacity to the surface since the unfortunate death of High King Kalderdan and the subsequent ruling of the Clan Council so our appreciation for overworlder customs are somewhat rusted. Allow me to thank you both for hosting this event, it is good for Mularuhm to have an avenue through which it can reconnect with the outside world."

[Kitsanth]

This was Vanya's first visit to Jarrland. He had been somewhat hesitant to attend given what he had heard of the happenings during the previous Grand Ball. He had been convinced by his wife that his non-attendance after his failure to make the Huroshan coronation would be sending the wrong message, so here he is.

High Prince Vanya Nisakovich - soon to become Grand Prince - strode confidently into the Great Hall with his partner Lady Tiia at his side. Together they are a rather striking pair - Tiia's long white hair and icy blue eyes provide a sharp contrast to Vanya's distinctive flame-red hair and amber eyes. Both wore traditional Niskan gowns that had been tailored for the southern climate and neither carried any obvious weapons.

Accompanying their grand-parents were Mykola and Valéria - both of age by Niskan standards and hopefully soon to be married to the Vennland heirs. The two cousins shared the flame-red hair typical of the Nisakovich family. Mykola greatly resembled his grandfather, having the same rare amber eyes. Valéria, on the other hand, looked more like her mother, having the grey eyes that are much more common amongst Niskans.

Finishing off the Niskan group is Branimir Korošec, High Prince Vanya's personal guard.


Mykola and Valéria had followed their grandparents into the hall and stopped, looking around the hall in awe, this was their first time outside of Niskovia and neither had seen many foreigners before today.

Realising that her grandchildren were no longer following them, Tiia decided to give them a talk. "Now my vnuchata, you are here to meet your promised ones and so I expect that you will present yourselves as true heirs to the Nisakovich name should. Your fathers would expect no less of you." She says, speaking in Niskan.

Vanya had stepped further into the hall and was peering about for any sign of King Athelmere or Duke Radber when he realised that his wife was no longer at his side. Looking behind him he saw her speaking with their grandchildren. Guessing at the the subject of their conversation, he decided to reassure them.

Smiling at them he said, "Do not fear young ones, just be true to your own spirit. I am sure that the Vennlanders have no extreme expectations of either of you. There are no other dangers here, though the people may be a little strange."

High Prince Vanya Nisakovich (69)
Lady Tiia Nisakovich (65)
Mykola Nisakovich (19)
Valéria Nisakovich (18)
Branimir Korošec (49)

[lt_murgen]

Tailong grasped Martin's underarm with a big smile on his face breaking through his red beard. "It's been too long, my friend. How's hunting in Niemidaland? Yvinia! Ever the gorgeous one, my dear." He cast a curious look at the three children and looked at Martin for clarifications.

Martin spoke up loudly at first, "The hunting is poor, but the sport fishing! Never have I landed bigger fish in my life." He leaned in a bit, switching from the common trade tounge to Tailong's native language

"Sadly, my wife and I haven't been able to have children of our own. Our three are children are a family of escaped slaves from lands to our north. Their parents died so they could be free."
He leaned back, "So our boats have made grat sport hunting those large slow beasts along the coasts." He said in trade tounge again, pretending to finish the story.



Tianshi seemed to have been caught off guard by the boy's exhuberance. She looked at her father as if for guidance, but found no clue there either as Tailong was occupied with Martin. "I... thank you, my lord." The girl said courteously, unconsciously touching her hair.

"She's breast, y'know!" Fengbao proclaimed, proudly and loudly.

This seemed to throw Tianshi a bit further even as she struggled to maintain composure and inadvertently smacked Fengbao on the mouth. "That's blessed!"

"Bowww!" Fengbao cried. "Bless your ugly face!"

The 12 year old Max finally spoke up, "Gilligan, why don't you and Fengbao go and pay pirates, and raid the food tables? Bring back some mighty booty, little brother!" He turned to Tianshi and said with a wry snort, "Little brothers, huh?"

Ginger, his sister, gently punched him on the shoulder. "Tell me about it."

[Aedilred]

A fairly young man in roughly his mid-twenties arrived at the doorway to the hall. His features were dark and elfin like any other Jarr, but he was dressed in the manner of a Salteire noble.

"The Earl of Jarburg," the herald announced, causing some heads to turn in surprise. The earl had hardly visited Horbeach since his return to the kingdom along with his parents, preferring to spend time in the old capital and seat of his earldom.

There seemed to be a brief argument between him and the herald, and eventually the herald relented, clarifying with a slight expression of annoyance, "Prince Fydias, Earl of Jarburg."

Fydias nodded with apparent satisfaction, and walked on into the hall.



[COLOR="#0000FF"]"It is tradition in Mularuhm to use full titles in first meetings," High Queen Gemgrinder spoke up, "We Dwarves are so long lived, and the processes of mining and farming so slow that whatever can be done to pass the time is done," she smiled, "Of course, this is our first time traveling in official capacity to the surface since the unfortunate death of High King Kalderdan and the subsequent ruling of the Clan Council so our appreciation for overworlder customs are somewhat rusted. Allow me to thank you both for hosting this event, it is good for Mularuhm to have an avenue through which it can reconnect with the outside world."
"In that case, it is a pleasure also to meet you, Lord King of Mularuhm, Markarv of Asterith, High Ambassador to Galardoth, High King, and yourself, milady Queen of Mularuhm, Martarv of Asterith, High Ambassador to Galardoth, High Queen," Athelmere replied, with a slight twinkle in his eye.

"I am pleased to do whatever I can to assist the people and sovereigns of Mularuhm in re-establishing themselves in the eyes of the world after the unfortunate events of previous years. I hope we will be seeing more of each other in the years to come."



"My own thoughts are much the same, really. I would love to lead a heroic war like Grandfather Gilgamesh did, but I certainly don't want to go to war with you:smallredface: and there's nobody else around. So instead of emulating Grandfather I'll emulate Father, and build up a prosperous and wise realm.


I see your point with regard to the alliance. It would be a nice thing to have, but obviously it would be inappropriate at this point. Hellstone... providing that should be possible, especially if you have any Gold to spare.
However, there's another issue that must be discussed related to the possibility of a pairing between our Clovis and your Emryn. Are you familiar with the Pavonian method of marriage?
"The last time we were at war was before I was born," Emryn said, "so I don't know what that was like. But from the way my father and grandfather have talked about it, it sounds glorious to those who were not involved, but the reality is often somewhat different. I would hope if I ever became queen I would not have to fight anyone... but if I did I'd be sure to beat them."

"We mine no gold in our lands, I am afraid. That which we have we import from north of the Discord mountains. I would however be more than happy to make the plans for true ocean-going ships available to you in exchange for an import of Hellstone. Perhaps then at some point in the future we could convert that to a bilateral trade, should we develop or discover any resources you would find particularly desirable.

"I would indeed be happy to discuss a match between Emryn and Clovis, although I confess Pavonian customs of marriage are entirely a mystery to me."

[Morph Bark]

Martin spoke up loudly at first, "The hunting is poor, but the sport fishing! Never have I landed bigger fish in my life." He leaned in a bit, switching from the common trade tongue to Tailong's native language

"Sadly, my wife and I haven't been able to have children of our own. Our three are children are a family of escaped slaves from lands to our north. Their parents died so they could be free."
He leaned back, "So our boats have made great sport hunting those large slow beasts along the coasts." He said in trade tongue again, pretending to finish the story.

"Ah!" Tailong exclaimed in turn. "Ah." He muttered softly at Martin's whisper. The smirk returned again after. "Well, considering what a good sport you are, I bet those creatures must've heard of your reputation and come to challenge you yourself!" He patted the man on the shoulder and looked around for his wife and parents-in-law. He took note of the royals from various nations, many he hadn't met before himself. It would do well to meet with the new king of Mularuhm, as well as the Huroshan Emperor--he briefly wondered if he ruled as well as his mother fought. The king of Ashenia was also a man to meet with, as there were some matters of trade and faith to consider.


The 12 year old Max finally spoke up, "Gilligan, why don't you and Fengbao go and play pirates, and raid the food tables? Bring back some mighty booty, little brother!" He turned to Tianshi and said with a wry snort, "Little brothers, huh?"

Ginger, his sister, gently punched him on the shoulder. "Tell me about it."

"PIRATES! I am the captain!" Fengbao declared, and ran off with gusto behind Tailong's back.

Tianshi let escape a short sigh. "I suppose." She replied to Max, not having any experience with little brothers, or big brothers for that matter. She looked at the boy's hair and his sister's. "Do you colour yours?" The girl wondered aloud.

[RandoMan]

"In that case, it is a pleasure also to meet you, Lord King of Mularuhm, Markarv of Asterith, High Ambassador to Galardoth, High King, and yourself, milady Queen of Mularuhm, Martarv of Asterith, High Ambassador to Galardoth, High Queen," Athelmere replied, with a slight twinkle in his eye.

"I am pleased to do whatever I can to assist the people and sovereigns of Mularuhm in re-establishing themselves in the eyes of the world after the unfortunate events of previous years. I hope we will be seeing more of each other in the years to come."


"As we of Mularuhm hope the same. Though it has come to our attention that unrest yet stirs upon the surface realms of the Imperium? Mularuhm is far too vulnerable and shrunken from its absence of a High King to be able to focus outside the realm of the deep, but as the previous High King thought it wise to join the Imperium it is good to stay abreast of such topics. Perhaps you could enlighten the King and myself on the happenings in the land of men?"


The Cyaqueet delegate looks slightly embarrassed. "I certainly am in no position to argue, but unfortunately I'm not in a position to do anything about it either. I am only a district Count, you'd need to speak to the Grand Duke to work that out.

Then perhaps you can take us to your Grand Duke that such pertinent issues might be addressed by someone with the authority to address them?"

[lt_murgen]

"Tianshi let escape a short sigh. [COLOR="#D3D3D3"]"I suppose." She replied to Max, not having any experience with little brothers, or big brothers for that matter. She looked at the boy's hair and his sister's. "Do you colour yours?" The girl wondered aloud.

Ginger spoke first, "Yes. Dad has a portrait of his grandfather Jonas Grumby and grandmother Ginger Grant. I'm named after her. If the painting was accurate, she was a real stunner, with red/purple hair."

"We're so grateful mom and dad adopted us. So we try to look a bit mroe like them." Max added, stopping quickly when he saw the harsh look from his older sister.

"Hair dye and skin tattoos are a part of dad's Islander heritage. He's the Queen's cousin" Ginger said, pointing casually to Queen Tempest. "Mom is from Guilder, and they don't go for tattoos, so she let us dye our hair. BUt your hair! Tell me that it is natural. No human could dye it so perfectly, so beautifully!" Ginger said with a smile.

[Aedilred]

"That is probably the wisest policy in dealing with wars." Clovis pauses to pour himself a jug of beer, then adds a few drops of liquid from some phial and glances briefly at the results. "Anything you'd particularly recommend I try to get a good impression of Jarrish cooking?"
"Jarr cooking?" She made a slight face. "It's nothing special, but you might want to try the roast bison if you want to get an idea of native food. If you want to try something a bit tastier, then some of the Vennland oysters, maybe, or the stuffed goose. Some of the pies are quite good," she eventually allowed. "Apparently years ago we used to import tropical fruit and everyone went crazy for it, but then Tupelo murdered my great-grandmother and we cancelled all the trade. I'd like to try a pine-orange one day, though..."


"Ok, you've doubtless noticed our sigla". William traces one of the familiar runes tattooed across the back of his hand, and then rolls up a sleeve to show intricate chains of runes spiraling up his arm. "The first sigil, the one on which all other personal sigla are based, is the heart-rune. It defines who and what a person is, acting as an anchor that holds a person to himself. Take a look." William peels off his suit coat and then his undershirt, revealing a torso that is one vast web of runes. William's finger indicates a double circle of linked runes tattooed over his heart. "This," he says, tracing the outer circle of runes clockwise, "is my heart-rune, and this," he traces the inner circle counterclockwise, "is Louisa's. Two Pavonians wed by each tattoing the other's heart-rune inside the circle of their own. As you can see, this causes certain parts of a man's heart-rune to align with certain parts of a woman's, creating a single runic structure. It is this act that constitutes a union under our laws. But your Emryn has no heart-rune. Without such a rune, it is impossible for her to wed Clovis. The legal precedent is clear on this matter, since the same issue came up under my father during the last phase of the Unification."
"The only solution we've been able to think of is to give Emryn a heart-rune, but that obviously has some potential issues of its own."
"Provided Emryn agrees, I do not think we would have any objection in principle to her acquiring a heart-rune," Atheldynn said, glancing at his father.

The king nodded. "We have not always agreed with the actions of foreign religions, but we have no objection to them in theory nor to their practice in their homelands. Nor are we so precious about our culture that we would reject foreign customs on principle alone. Are there additional complications to the procedure of which we are not aware?"


"As we of Mularuhm hope the same. Though it has come to our attention that unrest yet stirs upon the surface realms of the Imperium? Mularuhm is far too vulnerable and shrunken from its absence of a High King to be able to focus outside the realm of the deep, but as the previous High King thought it wise to join the Imperium it is good to stay abreast of such topics. Perhaps you could enlighten the King and myself on the happenings in the land of men?"
"Your isolation from surface affairs is understandable. Essentially the situation remains much the same as it did at the Silver Summit, although the actors have changed. Both Tailong and Rongyao claim to be the one true Qzare and demand the other submit to their authority. Tailong is the son of the last undisputed Qzare, and most of the Imperium supports his claim, but Rongyao claims violation of the Silver Mandate. I believe Tailong is trying to find a compromise, though whether Rongyao will agree to anything other than the complete striking out of his house from the succession, I do not know. Of course, Tailong's wife is my daughter, and their children my descendants, so my sympathies in the matter are predictable."

"I do not believe anyone wants another war," Alfmark said, "but the true Qzare cannot tolerate a rival claimant, for obvious reasons. The current situation erodes the authority of both. If a diplomatic solution cannot be found... war may be inevitable."

"Outside the Imperium, things are much as they always are, I believe," the king continued. "Land is being explored to the south, the west and the east, and men continue to squabble over what they find as they always have. I heard there was nearly a war in the west between Bordeux and the Priory's vassal in Ri Chugang, and the Tzaltec Empire and Guilder nearly came to blows recently too. The new land does seem on the whole to be more... savage. Many realms have been invaded by orcs, especially in the east. I hope this does not presage the end of the age of peace we have largely enjoyed."

"The Queen of Celero has been endeavouring to ensure the peace will continue," Alfmark added, "though whether that project has any chance of success I doubt. Still, there was a treaty agreed six years ago on the treatment of prisoners of war at a summit in Propinlonge. If you like, I can have a copy sent on, so that you may add your signature, given you were unable to attend."

[WaylanderX]

"Of course Father, both," the two girls smiled sweetly, but it masked something...

Wayve had no doubt heard of the ebbing flow of tiredness that swept through the halls of the Ice Palace of late. It had started a few years ago with this Countess' own daughter and despite shifting from minor scandal amongst the nobles and becoming whispers amongst the servants, it had not ended. The Heartwaste buzzed with the rumor, that the twins were afflicted with the mixed blood of Fae and Werekin. That it had been enhanced by the addition of Cloudiz blood, that is had created something even more potent. No one dared say the word, not about the Queen's daughters, but the thought was common among many of them. Vampyre.

Valineth had expressed concern about her daughters to Wayve but the royal couple had been unable to catch the girls in anything and no definitive evidence had been presented of anything overly dangerous. To make a complicated matter even moreso the twins had been spending more and more time in Yorukuni and among the nobles of the Heartwaste, avoiding prolonged time among their mother or father. The girls still seemed to care for their mother and father but they kept secrets and avoided questions, there was a secret held by them, something no one but the two of them knew.

"She didn't support it at first, but Daiki insisted the time to act was now. He used to be the supreme commander of the Yorukuni Armies before Her Grace raised him to the position of Prince. I am not of a military mind Your Majesty, I could not speak of Daiki's tactical plan, but I do share your concern for the repercussions this action might have. I too pray that Her Grace does not cause what has so long been sought to be avoided by our nation."


Wombat and I came to a deal in a PM where I owe him a "big favor" which could be anything ranging from project help to military help or whatever we both agree falls in the parameters when he asks for it. I'm not thrilled with the vagueness but it may mean nothing ever gets called on so :P

Obviously, I'd be thrilled to let you set up TPs for the materials or trade it to you or whatever.

Well I won't be able to form a GK until I come over to be a vassal to you so as to get Tekorva anyway so that'll be fine. Chief and I can come in, you can Empire-ify and then I'll Great Kingdom it :)


Concern that might stem from the rumoured "habits" of the twins flashed across his face.

"Just do not get yourself into any trouble, little ladies."

"Militairy-wise, the plan is sound as can be. However, diplomatically it is on uneven ground. One wrong step and her plan could fall into the abyss. Depending on the depth of said abyss, I wonder if I can help her out of it. My Prowess might not be great enough. That won't stop me from trying though. Let us hope Valineth's Prowess is great enough for this task."


Tianshi seemed to have been caught off guard by the boy's exhuberance. She looked at her father as if for guidance, but found no clue there either as Tailong was occupied with Martin. "I... thank you, my lord." The girl said courteously, unconsciously touching her hair.

"She's breast, y'know!" Fengbao proclaimed, proudly and loudly.

This seemed to throw Tianshi a bit further even as she struggled to maintain composure and inadvertently smacked Fengbao on the mouth. "That's blessed!"

"Bowww!" Fengbao cried. "Bless your ugly face!"

RPing a six-year-old noble girl with Tianshi's personality is hard. At least I've RP'd characters like Fengbao and Huanle before!

Standing a mere 3 meters away from the children, Grïend stood perplexed, listening to the ramble of the little children below him. Noticing his amazement, Nyllana chuckled, still seated upon the Ambassador's shoulder.

"Children's innocense is an amazing thing, isn't it?" She asked him, a grin upon her face, sharp teeth clearly visible. Her eyes shone with a bright glow, showing her supernatural influences.

Grïend rumbled uncertainly. "THE BEHA....*ahem* The behaviour of fleshlings still amazes me sometimes, your Holiness. The ability of these young ones to play under these circumstances is quite intriguing."

Grïend bowed forwards towards the children and rumbled:

"HELLO LIT...*ahem* Hello little ones, are you having fun?"


*Snip*

Spotting the distinct physique of the dwarven, Wayve stepped towards them.

"May Prowess light your path, friends. I am Wayve Earthguard, Emperor of the Hurosha Empire. I have come to your people to discuss trade and progress. Can I interest you in a conversation?"

I want to propose a trade with you for Mithril. Can I interest you in that? I can offer you gold, furs, lead or even my trademark Huge Insects (Trained). This means you can use them to create aerial units, but you do not possess the technology. Does something of this sound good to you?


"Long, long ago, Pavonia was ruled by two great powers, the Faeren and the Formor. The Faeren were our gods. Cruel and capricious gods, but gods all the same, capable of such majesty that we wept for awe. The Formor... the formor were abominations, and makers of abominations. They warped and twisted the creatures of the world to their own ends. None know how long the two battled, but it is known that it ended when we mortals finally decided we'd had enough. We rose up and fought by the side of the Faeren, who in return taught us sygaldry and other lore. We drove the Formor out of Pavonia and into the Black Ocean, where as far as we know they lurk to this day. Your own appearance is similar to that of Formor-warped humans, and it strikes a nerve among our kind."

A concerned expression appeared on Rove's face.

"I can assume you that my people are no sea demons, dear sirs. We do not border any seas, the Hurosha Empire is completely landlocked. Is there any way my people can convince you to see us in a different light?"


For Aedilred

Marana engaged to Eldred it is! Do you want to RP it out a bit? I put the trade and engagement into my actions aswell.

[Aedilred]

Almost right on cue, a nondescript man in late middle age entered, dressed in the fashions of the southern nobility, but his paler complexion and fully human features marking him out as something other than a local. He glanced around the hall, taking in the guests, then scowled and hurried on towards Alfmark before the herald had even completed his introduction.

“The Earl of Scowen,” the herald declared, in the direction of the man's back.


“We have a problem,” Dagr said, as he reached Alfmark. The atheling dismissed the lordling he'd been talking to with a gesture and turned towards him.

“A serious problem, I imagine. Go on.”

“It concerns your nephew,” Dagr started, and Alfmark frowned: he had four nephews, after all. Dagr nodded slightly to where Fydias stood chatting.

“Ah. What's he done?”

“I've just come from interrogating Lord Carran,” Dagr said, leaning heavily on the words, but doing his best to look nonchalant for the benefit of observers.

“He was in on it?” Alfmark hissed.

“Not the kidnapping itself; he was too young then. But the imprisonment?” He nodded. “He visited her a few times in the last couple of years, since his return to Jarrland.”

“Seirwynn never mentioned this.”

“She didn't recognise him. She was a child when she was taken and he was little more. It was years before she saw him again, plenty of time for her to forget a face. Or maybe she just didn't think she'd be believed. Either way... I came here as fast as I could once I heard, hoping I'd get here before he did.”

“What's the fool even doing here?”

“Bravado and overconfidence. He thinks the only person who can identify him is Seirwynn and she either won't appear, or won't be believed, or both. He doesn't know Carran's even alive.”

“You say he visited her,” Alfmark said, slightly slowly. “Did he..?”

“No.” Dagr gave a jerk of the head. “Although Carran thinks it wasn't for want of thinking about it. He suspected if he hadn't been there – well, it might explain why Seirwynn asked for him to be spared.”

Alfmark swore, slightly more loudly than was desirable. “This is a disaster. We can't arrest the bastard in front of everyone, so we're just going to have to put up with it and hope nothing goes wrong. But if he leaves the hall for any reason, grab him.”

“Shall I tell the king?”

“No, I'll do it. Just make sure he doesn't get away.” He clapped Dagr on the shoulder. “Good work. I just wish you'd made it here quicker.”


"I'll definitely get the oysters :smallredface:, and I think a meat pie. And I heard about Tupelo, didn't your father or grandfather or someone sneak into his palace and "inhumed" him? Sounds like something Mom would do if it were my family that got involved."
"My..." she seemed to be trying to work it out on her fingers, then shrugged- "cousin, yes. Only a cousin by marriage, though. He didn't kill Tupelo himself, that was Dagr-" she nodded in the direction of the newly-arrived earl- "but he was there for the fight, and disappeared for years. We thought he was dead, but it turned out he survived rather a while, even if he was quite badly injured. I never met him, though, I only know his son Wiltor, and Jogay, I suppose."

[RandoMan]

Spotting the distinct physique of the dwarven, Wayve stepped towards them.

"May Prowess light your path, friends. I am Wayve Earthguard, Emperor of the Hurosha Empire. I have come to your people to discuss trade and progress. Can I interest you in a conversation?"

I want to propose a trade with you for Mithril. Can I interest you in that? I can offer you gold, furs, lead or even my trademark Huge Insects (Trained). This means you can use them to create aerial units, but you do not possess the technology. Does something of this sound good to you?


"A pleasure to meet you Wayve Earthguard, Emperor of Hurosha. I am High King Konhagen, King of Mularuhm, Ma-"

"As we are upon the surface let us abide surfacer tradition my dear," his wife interrupted, "As to a conversation, my husband and I would be delighted to partake in one with your eminence."


Caves do tend to get cold, but Mithril has benefits in the game. Could you do a Lead and Furs for Mithril trade?

[Elemental]

"The pleasure is mine at having you here at long last, and no apology is necessary for the timing of your arrival," Athelmere said. "It is a shame Eirwynn could not accompany you, but I understand the demands of child-rearing and that travel over such distances is not always possible, no matter how much we might wish it. I trust your journey was pleasant, or at least bearable?"

"Aside from almost ending up in elsewhere, it was indeed a most pleasant journey. I rarely see the ocean, so being surrounded by it for most of the journey was rather refreshing. Of course, I was seasick for a few days. Ashenites are meant to ride, not sail."
After finishing, he moved out of the way so that Athelmere could have an unobstructed view of the covered painting.
"Though they could not come themselves, Princess Eirwynn and Prince Hazael both wanted to show you what their children looked like. Fortunately, a rising artist has set up her studio in Severikand and they were able to commission a family portrait. I'm not sure what the custom in Jarrland is for when one delivers a painting. Is it customary to do the reveal before guests or in private?"



Ambryn's face brightened when she spotted the Ashenian delegation, but her expression fell when she heard that her sister could not attend. "A shame she could not be here. We haven't seen each other for so long, perhaps I should go to Ashenia for a visit sometime, bring the girls if they're old enough. How's she doing? And her children?"

King Tansan bowed his head respectfully.
"Both her and her children are in excellent health. They are finding their home in Severikand to be to their liking and despite being busy with four small children, Princess Eirwynn still finds the time to sponsor art and attend university events. In any case, I'm sure she would be delighted should you choose to visit her."

[Aedilred]

"So, I'll make arrangements to provide you with a 25-year supply of Hellstone in exchange for your shipbuilding tech, and we'll try and nudge Clovis and Emryn and see where that ends up going. Agreed?" William extended his hand.
"Agreed."


Clovis glanced at Dagr and briefly looked surprised, before leaning in to whisper to Emryn.
"Is he a vampire? I didn't think you had those this far north."
She looked bewildered. "No! Well, not as far as I know, anyway. He's a Tuorkey, or possibly Hrathanese, I forget which, but that general area in any case - although he's lived in Vennland for thirty years now."



"Aside from almost ending up in elsewhere, it was indeed a most pleasant journey. I rarely see the ocean, so being surrounded by it for most of the journey was rather refreshing. Of course, I was seasick for a few days. Ashenites are meant to ride, not sail."
After finishing, he moved out of the way so that Athelmere could have an unobstructed view of the covered painting.
"Though they could not come themselves, Princess Eirwynn and Prince Hazael both wanted to show you what their children looked like. Fortunately, a rising artist has set up her studio in Severikand and they were able to commission a family portrait. I'm not sure what the custom in Jarrland is for when one delivers a painting. Is it customary to do the reveal before guests or in private?"
"Ah yes, seasickness is common among those unused to the sea. My father suffered from it terribly. Then again, it's not unknown even among those from sailing communities either. Some of our navy captains get seasick themselves, although they try to pretend otherwise." He looked curiously at the covered painting. "In all honesty, lord king, our native artistry in the field of painting is so meagre that gifts of paintings are sufficiently rare no custom has developed for them. Perhaps, since it is a family portrait, I would suggest it be revealed privately... but so many of those present are family themselves in one way or another, who would probably wish to see it anyway, that to reveal it here might be more convenient, and not unseemly."

[Aedilred]

"Oh, I see. It did seem a bit unlikely. So was he a Duke before inhuming Tupelo?"
"An earl? I don't think so - I think he was a commoner back in Hrathan-Tuor..." She looked thoughtful. "It was a reward from grandfather for killing Tupelo, from what I heard. I don't know much about what Dagr did before that. I don't even know what his first family name was, although he's head of Clan Scowen now."

[RandoMan]

The Grand Duke and Grand Duchess reemerge into the main room, and are almost immediately accosted by both of their goblinoid subordinates.

After a brief discussion the two approach King Konhagen and his Queen, and William addresses Konhagen.

"King Konhagen! I understand you wished to discuss something with me? Let's find a private room where the two of us can discuss whatever it is. I'm sure the women can keep each other company while we're busy."


"The Dwarves rule as couples," the High Queen interjected, "I suspect you might be unaware of our traditions as your first instinct upon meeting our people was to march to war, but such is our way and I would ask you respect it. We shall discuss these issues as three, or four should you deign to include your own wife in our discussion."

Konhagen gave an affirming nod but said nothing.

[Aedilred]

"Huh. Let's talk about something else... what do you like to do for fun?"
"Fun?" The idea seemed almost alien to her. "Riding, I suppose, some reading, needlework, archery, dancing..." It wasn't clear whether she enjoyed any of these activities particularly, or whether they were just the ways in which her time tended to be occupied. "What about in Pavonia? What do you find yourself engaged in down there?"


Louisa is considering attempting to poison Fydias. How do you want to resolve that? Should I roll something or would we just do it by fiat since all involved characters are controlled by me or you? She is supposed to be a fairly good poisoner, so I don't want to make her do something really stupid and get caught easily.
Hehehehe. I actually had the idea of running an attempted poisoning with various roll-offs but eventually decided it was both too much hassle and too big a risk. I would have thought an opposed Luck roll would probably be the way to do it. (Or half-Luck since neither character is a ruler; at least, Fydias isn't). However, the assassins might not take kindly to someone doing an independent poisoning on their "turf" and would almost certainly investigate, so that'd be something to bear in mind - of course, Louisa might not know that. If Clovis hasn't heard about Dagr's history in detail, the presence of the assassins in Vennland might not be widespread knowledge.

Depending how long it takes her to decide, she might find the situation *ahem* resolves itself :smallwink:

Up to you how you want to proceed!

[Aedilred]

"Hunting, reading, studying government, the occasional paint assassination. Oh, and fencing. I have a bit of an unusual build for a Wulfendyne, so I'm the only one who practices it and it's one of my favorite activities. Dad's promised me an adamantine sword for my sixteenth birthday."
"You have adamantine so far south? Here we only have mithril, well, and orichalcum, I suppose. We get that from Mularuhm and Pontensulae, though. I've never had much practice with hand-to-hand weapons. My father and grandfather favour the axe over the sword, although my aunt Ambryn was apparently a good swordswoman when she was younger." She smiled. "I think seven children might have taken their toll on her abilities by now."

I'd prefer just to do it by RP/fiat, to be honest, but if you want to roll it out we can do 2d6+1/2 Luck. I would suggest that we roll for Louisa, Fydias, and the Crown. If Louisa's result beats Fydias's, then she successfully poisons him. If not, then she can't get a good opportunity (I really don't want her to get caught, obviously). If her roll beats the Crown's, then they don't realize what she's done, if not then they do.[/QUOTE]

OK. I'd prefer to roll for it - I'd like to give you a chance to get involved, but also don't want to forgo existing plans altogether, so leaving it up to chance to a degree makes sense. 2d6+1/2 luck seems sensible: I guess if it's a tie she poisons his food/glass but he doesn't eat/drink it (and it would still require the crown to discover the culprit, of course, even if they realise it's been poisoned). To the rolling thread!

[lt_murgen]

Maartin excused himself, offering to go and procure refreshments for his wife. As he stepped passed his daughter, he whispered to her to go see why her uncle was skulking about in the corners.

But his real point of interest was the Earl of Scowen. He had helped the man, on and off, for many years doing one shady errand for the Jarrow after another. He knew the look Dagr wore- poorly hidden concern, with a hope for violence.

"Once and assassin, always an assassin," he muttered quietly, more to himself than anyone else. Stepping up beside the man, he greeted him, "Earl Scowden, cousin! Glad to see you again. How's the weather been?" He used an informal code between them pointing to the degree of trouble coming.

[Aedilred]

This was Vanya's first visit to Jarrland. He had been somewhat hesitant to attend given what he had heard of the happenings during the previous Grand Ball. He had been convinced by his wife that his non-attendance after his failure to make the Huroshan coronation would be sending the wrong message, so here he is.
...
Smiling at them he said, "Do not fear young ones, just be true to your own spirit. I am sure that the Vennlanders have no extreme expectations of either of you. There are no other dangers here, though the people may be a little strange."
The Niskans were ushered forward to be greeted by the king, as the other guests have been.

"Lord Prince," Athelmere said, "it is an honour to meet you at last. I am grateful you would take the time to make such a long voyage to attend our event." He clicked his fingers and beckoned at a nearby group, and a man of similar age and features, though clad in green and crimson rather than the king's royal colours, approached.

"This is my cousin Duke Radber of Vennland-" - the Duke bowed slightly - "and his family, the Duchess Talli-" a smaller, slightly fairer woman, about fifteen years younger than her husband - "and their children Sellyn and Siggi."



Ok, but I would like to reiterate my request that even if I fail, Louisa doesn't flub up so badly as to be caught out in front of everyone. I'm Ok with Jarrow knowing it was her, but they shouldn't be able to prove it. My result is 9 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17878374&postcount=761).
OK, I guess in that case she doesn't find an opportunity to poison him?


"Once and assassin, always an assassin," he muttered quietly, more to himself than anyone else. Stepping up beside the man, he greeted him, "Earl Scowden, cousin! Glad to see you again. How's the weather been?" He used an informal code between them pointing to the degree of trouble coming.
Dagr nodded to Martin. "Turbulent, but nothing we can't handle, I think. Our friend has given me an interesting forecast which will probably be of interest to at least one person here."

[RandoMan]

When they've moved off to a side room, William addresses Konhagen again. "So, Konhagen, what was it you wanted to discuss with me?"


"We wished to discuss the matters of Norogh, your invasion of it, and the reparations overdue to Mularuhm," the High Queen answered, "Your senseless and brutal invasion cost thousands of Dwarven lives and once you stood in bloody triumph within the caves you simply turned a blind eye to the kingdom you had robbed and murdered. To murder and steal are both great crimes in Mularuhm, to refuse and face judgment or punishment is all the worse. Since your killing of Kalderdan we of Mularuhm have suffered greatly, our power has shrunk and years have been lost to clan in-fighting. At the root of all this strife are you and your people yet you have not once sent diplomat nor offered assistance for the disaster you caused. Dwarves live long and hold grudges yet longer, but debts may be repaid, mines mended, and crimes forgotten, but such requires sacrifice from the debtor."

[lt_murgen]

Dagr nodded to Martin. "Turbulent, but nothing we can't handle, I think. Our friend has given me an interesting forecast which will probably be of interest to at least one person here."

"Well, should a black flag go up, we'll be there to assist." Martin answered, relieved this wasn't going to turn into a full scale battle. Grand Balls already had a bad reputation. So he changed the subject, "I hope your leadership is Vennland is pleasant? I certainly enjoy the death by a thousand cuts that is governorship." He said with great sarcasm.

:smallbiggrin:OOC: about 80 years back, the regions at the time agreed on colors for runner flags on ships- white for diplomacy, red for commerce, black for assistance. I've always assumed it was the only good thing to come out of the Central Sea Conference....

[WaylanderX]

"A pleasure to meet you Wayve Earthguard, Emperor of Hurosha. I am High King Konhagen, King of Mularuhm, Ma-"

"As we are upon the surface let us abide surfacer tradition my dear," his wife interrupted, "As to a conversation, my husband and I would be delighted to partake in one with your eminence."


Caves do tend to get cold, but Mithril has benefits in the game. Could you do a Lead and Furs for Mithril trade?


I am afraid I cannot do that, as Lead is significantly more rare than mithril (3 total units of lead vs 9 total units of mithril). However, I am willing to do a Furs and a tech vs mithril. I could slap on a Sewer or a similar one. Also, instead, I could pledge to spend a few actions and an alliance (1 or 2) to the restoration of Mularuhm, as I have a region of dwarven of my own in my Empire.

Wayve smiled apologetically.

"I do not mind if one practises his people's traditions. We do the same, in fact."

He gestured to his adamantine/orichalcum fullplate.

"Besides, it is always interesting to know more about foreign traditions and culture. That was also why the Kasumori Academy of Culture and Prowess was founded."

"But I digress, the reason I have come to you, King and Queen, is to talk about trade. I seek Mithril for its strenght but lightweight, so I may use it further progress the Bucka's (Bucka=Goblin) studies. My warehouses are full of furs and lead. Perhaps I can even offer you some of the fruits of my own or my allies research, if we can strike a good deal."

[Aedilred]

At a pre-arranged signal, or perhaps just an appointed time, the musicians concluded a dance they had been playing and laid down their instruments.

“My lords, ladies and gentlemen,” the king called, “if I might request a few minutes of your time.” Once the room was hushed, he continued:

“As many of you will know, today is the fiftieth anniversary of the last Grand Ball, held in Miji Mkuu in 381. For at least some of us, there is some happiness to that recollection – for me, it marks fifty years since I met Tempest, my queen. In most respects, however, the last Ball has passed into infamy, for the events surrounding the rebirth of the Blazing Avatar, an event which saw the loss of many lives.

“My cousin Alfmark has prepared a list of those who lost their lives at the last Ball, which he shall now read in remembrance.”

Alfmark raised a large piece of paper and read the names in a solemn voice:
“King Hazael of Ashenia
High Chancellor Loki Ethmorl
King Tendaji of Genivana
Prince Unfurc of the Glazfell
Prince Korath of Ashenia and Ignato
Prince Riphal of Hurosha
Princess Eirwynn of Clan Jarrow”

King Athelmere looked down at mention of his sister's name.

“Inaun of the Na'nuk
Kilwen of Ignato
Marglum of Hrathan-Tuor...”

The list went on, more than a hundred names in all, every victim of the disastrous miracle, and once the dead were named, it moved on to those who had been otherwise badly injured:

“Empress Syana Ignato; King Hroar of the Glazfell; King Ujval of Raaneka; Prince Ali of the Unbroken Line; Ania an Pajen of the Na'nuk-”

Even more names than those of the dead.

“Those of us who attended the last Grand Ball are few in number now,” Athelmere said, “and only growing fewer. In fifty years there may be none of us left. These names have been read so that those of you who never knew any of these people will nevertheless hear them and know them and remember the events of their deaths – one of the greatest peacetime tragedies in the recent history of the world, which affected those of all peoples and creeds. For all that we might live divided now, and perhaps for centuries to come, on this day fifty years ago those people suffered and died together.

“For as long as we are remembered, some part of us can be said to live yet. I ask you to remember these names, and these people, so that they might continue to live a little longer in spirit, even though in body they left us many years ago.”

[RandoMan]

I am afraid I cannot do that, as Lead is significantly more rare than mithril (3 total units of lead vs 9 total units of mithril). However, I am willing to do a Furs and a tech vs mithril. I could slap on a Sewer or a similar one. Also, instead, I could pledge to spend a few actions and an alliance (1 or 2) to the restoration of Mularuhm, as I have a region of dwarven of my own in my Empire.

Wayve smiled apologetically.

"I do not mind if one practises his people's traditions. We do the same, in fact."

He gestured to his adamantine/orichalcum fullplate.

"Besides, it is always interesting to know more about foreign traditions and culture. That was also why the Kasumori Academy of Culture and Prowess was founded."

"But I digress, the reason I have come to you, King and Queen, is to talk about trade. I seek Mithril for its strenght but lightweight, so I may use it further progress the Bucka's (Bucka=Goblin) studies. My warehouses are full of furs and lead. Perhaps I can even offer you some of the fruits of my own or my allies research, if we can strike a good deal."


Sewage Systems plus Furs for Mithril would be good with me.




"I could point out that it was you who began the whole affair by sending soldiers onto Pavonian soil, and that it was not I who led the Unification in any case. However, it seems that The Kingdom Of The Carmine Sea wishes this to be resolved amicably, and I learned from my father's hunting accident not to unnecessarily antagonize my in-laws. For Aethelmere's sake, and to avoid a third invasion of the caves, I will pay weregild for the deceased. How many do your scribes record as having died?"



Kaitlind let slide the Pavonians warped understanding of history. Surfacers and their short lives led to so much forgotten by them. This boy hadn't even been old enough to lead his nation those years ago. Such was not to be blamed on them.

"5,000 Dwarves died in the ten years your kind took to squeeze into the caves," the High Queen answered, "By our reckoning to be given access to the resources of Norogh in the form of tradeposts, an agreement that could not be made with any other sovereignty than our own. We Dwarves benefit, the Pavonians pay their debts, and the caves of Norogh see economic growth and union with leaders old and new."

[lt_murgen]

Ginger found her uncle sitting quietly on a chaise by a fire, a collection of empty glasses around him. She sat down beside him, resting her head on his shoulder. The man wasn’t really her uncle, not by blood. But he was her father’s cousin, and he had embraced Martin’s adopted children. “Shared blood is more potent than born blood,” an Islander saying went.

“Come uncle, join the fun. You seem so sad by yourself.”

“I am sad, Gigi. But I needed to be here.” He patted her arm gently. “But go, have fun. A Ball should be for the young. Go dance. Break a few hearts.” That thought brought a smile to his scarred face, and he gave her a gentle shove with his shoulder.

She stood, just as the musicians finished playing and the call went out “I will, but only if you come and stand with us for the rememberance.” She tugged on him roughly, pulling the old man to his feet.

The pair rejoined Martin, his wife, and the other children. They stood in silence as the King made his pronouncement and the names were read. Martin recalled them, those he knew, their faces indelibly stamped in his memory.

He remembered the hall, the music with brother Paco wailing away on the drums. The Triumvirate leaders so regally imposing. He recalled the Jarrs entrance and how rustic they were then, in comparison to now. Looking around, he considered Athelmark’s words to Sanya. Yes, the old man would see his kingdom as a success. The Raanekii, seeing Princess Anguri, who his mom treated as a little sister, and all the people from Raaneka he knew from living there for years, and them living on the islands. So many injured…

He remembered Greta acting the wild child- dancing with him and then sending him tumbling into Shvedrishti, just a nervous teen at the time. The joy and fun. But then came the riutual and the fire….

Dimly he recognized that his own name had been called, as part of the list of injured. It snapped him back to the present. Idly, he noted tears rolling down his cheeks.

[RandoMan]

William blinked and shook his head. "In the first place, I believe our own accounts only recorded two thousands dead. I will have to go back to Grove City and confirm the exact number. Second, could you repeat that offer a little more clearly? I think you must have slipped into some Dwarfish idiom I am not familiar with."


"Five (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17558659&postcount=452) thousand (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17596580&postcount=479) Dwarves died in your people's conquest. We would ask in resitution that the Dwarves be given full rights to both trading posts in Norogh so that a supply of each of its resources can begin supplying Mularuhm once more."

[Aedilred]

There was a slight commotion at the doors of the hall, though few turned to look. Those who did saw a young woman run in. Aged about twenty, she would have been rather attractive were it not for her haunted, slightly mad eyes, and dishevelled clothes and white hair, not to mention her face's contortions into an expression of utmost fury. As she moved, a train of words followed in her wake.

“You! I can't believe you came here you bastard you how dare you show your face here it was you all along how could you I'll kill you who do you think you are”

Prince Fydias turned slowly, holding his arms out wide in a gesture of greeting and smiling warmly, though those close to him detected a note of panic in his eyes.

“Why, cousin Seirwynn, isn't it? It's been such a long time since I saw you, I barely recognised you.”

“I'll kill you!” She flew at him.

Fydias went for his sword, but it was barely out of the scabbard before Dagr, standing at his shoulder, grabbed his wrist and twisted, sending the weapon skittering across the floor. Before either of them could do anything, Seirwynn was on them, flailing with both arms.

[lt_murgen]

Martin shot Jonas a quick glance, and the pair stepped forward. Neither made a move to draw their weapons. They merely stared down the few associated with Prince Fydias. "This is a family matter." The threat was obvious.

[Aedilred]

After no more than a few moments, the pair were dragged apart. Only then did anyone see the dripping knife in Seirwynn's fist. Fydias staggered, blood staining the front of his fine Salterri clothes. He put his hands to his chest and they came up red, blood spilling from them, spattering across the floor. In a moment, Dagr went from restraining him to holding him upright.

The knife was wrestled out of Seirwynn's grip as Alfmark pushed his way through the crowd of stunned observers and gathering thingmen. He spared a glance for Fydias.

“This man is a traitor. Take him away.” He turned back to Seirwynn. “Cousin Seirwynn, I am glad you could join us for the ball, though I fear perhaps you have forgotten the finer points of etiquette. Perhaps it would be better for you to return to your rooms for now.”

She stared at him in mute shock, and as he gave the nod the guards began to lead her away.

[RandoMan]

"I'll agree to that if you, in return, give us full access to the two Muhlarhum trading posts. Deal?"


"Unacceptable! And disrespectful! To offer trade in the place of reparations due for the lost lives of thousands of Dwarves! Perhaps we could have come to accept such a deal in time, but to offer it out the gate speaks of the most haughty and loathsome attitude!"

OOC: I'm actually fine with that deal since no one else can have Trading Posts in Mularuhm but it comes off bad given the light. If you want to agree to the trading posts in Norogh now I'd be happy to let you build your own trading posts in Mularuhm in 2 rounds or so as a player-player agreement.

[RandoMan]

William looks confused. "Lady, I think you may be confused. I am perfectly willing to pay weregild for the dead and have told you so. It was you who turned the issue to an offer of trade."

OOC: I'd be fine with that, but I don't think William would. As his line above hopefully makes clear, William thinks of reparations as a one-time payment sort of thing. Building trading posts is in his mind a matter of trade, not reparations. Perhaps Pavonia could give you two stacks of Amethysts this turn? Or a stack of Gold and a stack of Amethysts? Either of those would be things William would class as reparations. We could even have Pavonia pay reparations and then have both sides build trade posts as a separate deal.


The High Queen let out a slow breath. Surfacers, so short lived and thus short-sighted.

"Perhaps a one off payment may be enough to satisfy the lives of a surfacer but those Dwarves that dies were in their prime, they still had nearly 100 years yet to live, 100 years their families and clans will live without them. Perhaps we might compromise? Pavonia sends to Mularuhm two stacks Amethysts for a period numbering 25 years, at the end of this time we shall consider the debts of the lives lost repaid and shall see to negotiations on how our then repaired relationship might be strengthened through trade and perhaps in time, friendship. What say you Grand Duke?"

OOC: I'm trying to wrap being so long of life into things without doing the cop-out "it takes extra long to develop!" route so they have a skewed view towards life and its value, inflating it quite a bit. Also, since this is happening at the Grand Ball technically and it was my fault it didn't get resolved so if you do agree consider last round as counting towards the 25 years, so only 4 rounds counting this current one. If you agree of course.