[Empire2!] The Summer Court at Farbensa

[Aedilred]

The Location

The Nanda were not, by nature, a seafaring people, but there were exceptions. Amaki stood as permanent reminder of their troubled relationship with the sea. Once a byword for luxury and splendour, the glorious capital of the old Nanda kingdom it had never recovered from the impact of a tidal wave which had reduced it from a mighty city to a large village whose inhabitants dwelt amidst the faded grandeur of a bygone age, the monuments of their ancestors gradually crumbling around them.

While the capital had moved inland, its spiritual successor was at Farbensa down the coast. Less ostentatious than Amaki had been (although it was said that the stone for many of the grander buildings in the younger city had been quarried from the old capital) it was nevertheless one of the largest cities in the kingdom, and certainly its largest seaport. It had even for a time served as the seat of kings of its own – not ones currently recognised as such, of course, but there were still some who whispered that they had had just as good a claim to the title as the Sasans who had overthrown them. The spot a few miles down the coast where Terit, the last king of Farbensa, had thrown himself to his death, had since developed a small monastic community, and even become something of an attraction for pilgrims.

The court was to be held in Terit's former palace, now occupied by the undisputed king (also the old king's grandson). Like most public buildings in Nand it boasted high ceilings, spacious arched windows and doorways, and an overall scheme of decoration with precious and semi-precious stones that would likely appear somewhat gaudy to a foreigner. Generous arcades opened up onto courtyards, many with ornamental pools, decorated with fountains, flower petals, or fish; others with statuary or other art; some with an arrangement of tables, chairs or couches for relaxation.

The hall at the heart of the complex was where the guests were to be entertained, and was typical of the rest of the building, distinctive more for its scale and the size of the windows and archways that gave space for it to be illuminated than for any particular difference in the sumptuousness of its decoration.


The King

It had been said that the twin sons of Isfandir IV were as one man in two bodies. Some had made the mistake of assuming they were in any way similar. Yazdagir, the elder of the pair, had been a warm and friendly young man, possessed of an engaging generosity of spirit and of hand, and an all-too understandable weakness for pleasures of the flesh. A man of easy smiles and always looking as though he was on the verge of turning to fat, more likely to compromise than to demand, to delegate than to decide, to forgive and turn the other cheek.

Ardashir was not like that. The king who stood awaiting his guests was said to be a man without mercy, with a mind like a steel trap and a sword-hand like a coiled spring. To look at him, he could have been chiselled from a solid block of stone, his clothes minimalist for all their quality, rather than the more splendid garments favoured by his twin. His eyes lighted on each of the arriving delegations, surveying and judging them with the dispassion of a man who might have carried twice his years. It was a tribute to his attitude and firmness that for the first time in decades, it was widely supposed that the king was now, in practice as well as theory, the most powerful individual in the land.

For all that, Ardashir was clearly not entirely unlike his brother, for beside him stood the man who had guided the crown of Nand for generations now, even if his hand rested less firmly upon the tiller of government. Prince Kusal, the king's grandfather, was somewhat aged now but still as sharp as ever, standing close to the king and occasionally leaning in to mutter some piece of information or advice, to which Ardashir never failed to nod.

The Accommodation

High-ranking guests and other small parties will be accommodated within the palace itself. Others, for whom there is not space, will have been invited to make arrangements with local noblemen or government officials to stay in their guest suites.

Military escorts and other hangers-on are invited to pitch tents outside the boundaries of the city. For all that the city is wealthy, the land around it is not rich, and there is plenty of land available for temporary camps. The markets of the city are particularly full with produce, to account for the expected number of attendees.

The Misfit

Where Yazdagir had reportedly never met a young woman he didn't want to bed, and had gone so far as to change the law to permit him to take multiple wives, Ardashir had yet to marry and there were apparently no signs he considered it a priority. The heir presumptive to the crown instead slouched around the outskirts of the gathering, a sullen adolescent apparently both uncomfortable and unwelcome. Though nothing official had ever been declared, there were not a few in the kingdom who believed him illegitimate, and it was widely rumoured the king himself was among them. Yet for now, despite rumours it was planned to disinherit him in favour of his sister, or his cousin, he remained the heir, and was present in that capacity.

The Guests of Honour

It would soon become apparent even to those who had not been informed in advance that, while all the invitees were welcome, there were some individuals to whom the king wished to pay special attention, their identities as yet undisclosed.

I will try to make relevant announcements as early in the round as possible. I may also post other minor events that happen or are open for participation as the round goes on. In the meantime, feel free to get stuck in, and don't worry too much about things happening in a strict order!

[Reggiejam]

Duke Sand had been somewhat surprised to receive a personal invitation to this Nanda event though he would of course never admit such a thing. It would be unbefitting his swagger and self professed importance that had in time evolved into true importance to betray his shock that a foreign king had reached out to him. Needless to say his influence and power had diminished under the reign of Lady Deirma though he had retained some level of relevance with his world tour alongside Nyle Darkthorne Drivas, or as he insisted on calling him, the Prince of Avonlea. The pair had earned themselves some level of appreciation and value to Lord Summer touring with his Thyrngar and acting as emissaries and investigators in Uldrakka regarding the Aeldir-like people there but such had been their final mission. The Prince had needed to return to his homeland to claim his inheritance there and Sand had grown fond of his young ward. While he still encouraged Nyle to seek power in Avonlea he would not stand in the way of the young man's wealth and power afforded by his drunk fighting Ambrosan father. Sand understood Nyle's mother now served Lord Winter in who knew what sort of role in the specter of the North's haunted castle.

The duo had never traveled to the Winter Courtlands for Sand found Lord Winter offputting in his aloof mystery and mystic trappings. Power certainly came from knowledge but surrounding oneself with the trinkets and symbols of the Old Gods suggested, to Duke Sand at least, a profound lack of the powerful elixir. He would not deny the Old Gods existed but to believe they were predictable or took direction or form understandable to even the Aeldir was foolish. It was better to leave the gods to their own devices than attempt to meddle for they always demanded some great price. As he understood it Lord Summer had paid a hefty sum for Winter's refreshment, a fact Lord Summer now regretted and fretted over constantly should the price be called to be paid again.

Sand fidgeted and pulled at his clothing once again keenly aware of his lack of a worthy or interesting companion with whom to share his thoughts. When he had traveled with Cynel he traveled knowing he could verbally spar and exchange with a mind as quick or quicker than his own. When he had traveled with Nyle he had traveled with an exemplar of mortals who soaked up knowledge and lessons taught even if he did not see fit to utilize every lesson taught. Without a companion he felt returned to the island of Tir Gwydr, lord of a sandcastle set to be washed away in the coming tide. Perhaps it was that mindset which had prompted his reversion to naming himself Duke Sand in his thoughts. Duke Fox had been a name befitting a well traveled member of the Autumn Court but now he felt like little more than a hanger-on from the last Lady Autumn's reign attempting to retain relevance no more important in the grand scheme than his lordship over the Spring Boy colony on the tiny island north of Sasanand. For the first time in a long time he felt old. Old and bored with the life he was living. He craved excitement, to see some wondrous event, to watch the Age of Expansion halt or twist upon some unforeseen act of an ambitious mortal or conniving Aeldir. Quietly he hoped what he searched for might be found in Farbensa.

The Aeldir ship arrived in the port of Farbensa and Duke Sand disembarked without accompaniment. His crew was composed of many peoples from across the Demesne, a rare occurrence for an Aeldir ship and a quirk of the Duke's personality. Each member he had hand selected for their wit, skill, or potential utility and their varied mix of rexline, geshem, human, satyr, and even a salvax gave the ship a cosmopolitan air. The Duke was dressed in fine cotton and silk clothes dyed brightly orange and yellow accented with bits of purple to display his Autumn belonging and Spring heritage as well as to simply draw attention with the ostentatious color scheme. He wore a large floppy hat in the geshem style that blocked the sun from reaching his lightly tanned skin and his boots appeared to be possibly "prevazan leather" a rather illegal material made from the dried and tanned hide of a prevaz. There were markets for such things though and it was little doubt the small duke had contacts in such markets.

The Duke was relatively informed of the situation in Nand though the rapid deaths of many of its royals had left him somewhat confused as to the proper state of things. Nonetheless he was able to identify the man who was clearly king and leader of the kingdom and he approached him with a friendly smile and a bow that erred on insulting in its grandiosity.

"Greetings King Ardashir and thank you for your invitation to this event. Prince Kusal, it is a pleasure to see another old man still active in this world," the impish Aeldir smiled at his own jest for he showed none of time's ravages upon his child-like face despite being well twice and again Kusal's age.

[Mary_Sue]

Avonlea

Once again, Aris traveled with a large retinue. Her attendants as desperate as she for a pretense to flee their realm that had become a bastion of death and suffering in the recent years. They had traveled overland to Fantastigoria Primacentra and then sailed their way to the Provinces holdings, well provisioned by the Fantastigorians under the rule of the Aeldir. Aris had stared long and silently upon the invitation before she had summoned Lady Fenille to attend her. Aris had been a captive of the Council still when the tragedy of Princess Linna's death had occurred. Though the Queen was sorely hesitant to send another of her maids to the violent and often unsettled Kingdom of Nand, ultimately she left the burden of decision to Fenille, as to her daughter's fate. She had chosen to travel with her Nend Ambassador Kamran, who's manner towards her had grown almost overly formal after her wedding to the Dullahan. Though it pained her to know the grief she had unwittingly cause the pink haired man, she had thought perhaps he might like some time amongst his own people.

And so they found themselves in Farbensa, the Nand climate much warmer than in their own realms, and summer ever more so. Aris wore a silver-strapped gown with a light pink bodice that laced up in the back. The skirt was fashioned from strips of airy material in pinks and creams that floated in the breeze when she walked. In true, the garment was less modest than was her wont, though she knew that the vaulted Nand chastity did not extend to their mode of dress, and she felt not unduly uncomfortable to be so exposed. The Queen's eyes fell upon the half-Nand girl Helaine, and she reflected sadly upon how that same chastity had likely driven the poor Nend King to suicide upon the breach of that taboo. Once Fenille had heard the truth of the tale, she had never forgiven herself, and remained much changed and reserved to this day nearly twelve years later.

After the Herald had sang their proper introductions, their retinue curtsied prettily to the King,

"Glad tidings and felicitations, King Ardashir. We thank you for the invitation to your.." Her voice trailed off as she realized she was unsure of what exactly she attended,

"Realm." Aris recovered gracefully and smiled warmly at the imposing man.

[Elemental]

Unable to leave Anceris at the present time, Emperor Spiridon instead saw fit to dispatch his son, Grand Prince Ferran de Altan to Nand to see to whatever it was that so concerned King Ardashir. Thus far the young man had only had the opportunity to travel to the neighbouring land of Cerilin on a handful of occasions and the short trips there and back scarcely prepared him for the long voyage across the Ocean Sea. While his Ancerin blood insulated him from the effects of seasickness, he nevertheless felt the monotony most keenly and he was glad for the short stop they had made in Fantastigoria to restock their supplies. Other than that the rest of the trip was spent sparring with his guards (the ship's captain had forbidden the use of weapons on deck) and reading the same rather antiquated book on Nand culture (apparently the author thought they were descended from chameleons could alter their colouration at will, needless to say, the prince chose to treat the book as fiction).
Eventually they found themselves in the warm lands of the Nand and the distant port of Farbensa. While the city was no match for the imperial splendour of Azandria, it had an exotic air to it and was still a beautiful city and Ferran was glad to disembark and at last make his way toward the palace. He arrived at the palace of King Terit flanked by a half dozen red-coated guards while he himself wore a shirt and pants both in white linen and an open robe of light Fantastigorian silk in soft blue with silver embroidery. His long brown hair was tied back into a single, short braid, he wore a plain mithril circlet at his brow and a priceless sword of the same was belted at his waist. After the heralds announced him, he and his guards all sank to one knee.
"Blessings of The Lady upon you Your Majesty. My father sends his regrets that he is unable to attend personally as affairs in Anceris require his full attention."

OoC Note: While I am aware that mithril forging technology does not exist, I'm running with the idea that weapons and such made of mithril do exist, but are extremely rare with a price tag to match.

[HalfTangible]

To suggest that the Primal and the Nanda did not like each other was to suggest that a flood was wet. Primus was a trading partner to the league and the two had fought a war together, but that did not stop the two warrior cultures from snipping at each other. Nand saw Primus as a realm full of unwashed savages, with the decorum of a rabid donkey and a smell twice as bad. Primus saw Nand as hypocritical cowards and weaklings whose opinion was worth less than nothing. While not enemies by any official terms, they certainly weren't friends. They both got along well with Ambrose, and that was the extent of their interaction when they could help it.

And probably for that reason, Nand had decided it would be a good idea to not only invite the warrior women that they didn't like, but to insult them in the invitation. ('Whoring it up' may be innocent enough in Primus but it is very insulting in most other cultures after all; one would wonder if they didn't respect the Imperium)

There were multiple pressing domestic matters that needed attending and didn't require kow-towing to someone who hated them. As such, Phelnia saw no reason to come herself. The Princesses Ionia, Vanara and Illydae Primus arrived with a small guard of the Custodia Alta, the former for complaining about Denippe's battle a little too loudly, and the latter to ensure something went wrong. Vanara had gone of her own will; perhaps to find a boy, perhaps to get away from her mother's twin. Either way.

Ionia's moonsilver armor was a deep sapphire, and shined to perfection. She had midnight black hair and striking amber eyes, almost like a hawk's. She kept a short sword belted to her right side, with the head of a dragon carved into the hilt. Illydae wore her moonsilver fighting claws, and emerald armor. Beneath that, her clothes were blue. The woman had hair just slightly more gray than her younger sister's, though she only looked to be in her late 30s. Vanara (https://dncache-mauganscorp.netdna-ssl.com/thumbseg/1703/1703559-bigthumbnail.jpg) was in her prime, and her armor was blood red with golden trim. She alone wore nothing blue, and carried a sword with a hilt long enough to be wielded two-handed, but a blade the length to be used by one. Like her mother (and her mother's twin) she had long, wine-red hair.

"Ardashir, wasn't it?" Illydae slammed her fist into her breastplate as a salute, and her younger companions followed suit. "Pleasure."

[Aedilred]

Duke Sand had been somewhat surprised to receive a personal invitation to this Nanda event though he would of course never admit such a thing. It would be unbefitting his swagger and self professed importance that had in time evolved into true importance to betray his shock that a foreign king had reached out to him. Needless to say his influence and power had diminished under the reign of Lady Deirma though he had retained some level of relevance with his world tour alongside Nyle Darkthorne Drivas, or as he insisted on calling him, the Prince of Avonlea. The pair had earned themselves some level of appreciation and value to Lord Summer touring with his Thyrngar and acting as emissaries and investigators in Uldrakka regarding the Aeldir-like people there but such had been their final mission. The Prince had needed to return to his homeland to claim his inheritance there and Sand had grown fond of his young ward. While he still encouraged Nyle to seek power in Avonlea he would not stand in the way of the young man's wealth and power afforded by his drunk fighting Ambrosan father. Sand understood Nyle's mother now served Lord Winter in who knew what sort of role in the specter of the North's haunted castle.

The duo had never traveled to the Winter Courtlands for Sand found Lord Winter offputting in his aloof mystery and mystic trappings. Power certainly came from knowledge but surrounding oneself with the trinkets and symbols of the Old Gods suggested, to Duke Sand at least, a profound lack of the powerful elixir. He would not deny the Old Gods existed but to believe they were predictable or took direction or form understandable to even the Aeldir was foolish. It was better to leave the gods to their own devices than attempt to meddle for they always demanded some great price. As he understood it Lord Summer had paid a hefty sum for Winter's refreshment, a fact Lord Summer now regretted and fretted over constantly should the price be called to be paid again.

Sand fidgeted and pulled at his clothing once again keenly aware of his lack of a worthy or interesting companion with whom to share his thoughts. When he had traveled with Cynel he traveled knowing he could verbally spar and exchange with a mind as quick or quicker than his own. When he had traveled with Nyle he had traveled with an exemplar of mortals who soaked up knowledge and lessons taught even if he did not see fit to utilize every lesson taught. Without a companion he felt returned to the island of Tir Gwydr, lord of a sandcastle set to be washed away in the coming tide. Perhaps it was that mindset which had prompted his reversion to naming himself Duke Sand in his thoughts. Duke Fox had been a name befitting a well traveled member of the Autumn Court but now he felt like little more than a hanger-on from the last Lady Autumn's reign attempting to retain relevance no more important in the grand scheme than his lordship over the Spring Boy colony on the tiny island north of Sasanand. For the first time in a long time he felt old. Old and bored with the life he was living. He craved excitement, to see some wondrous event, to watch the Age of Expansion halt or twist upon some unforeseen act of an ambitious mortal or conniving Aeldir. Quietly he hoped what he searched for might be found in Farbensa.

The Aeldir ship arrived in the port of Farbensa and Duke Sand disembarked without accompaniment. His crew was composed of many peoples from across the Demesne, a rare occurrence for an Aeldir ship and a quirk of the Duke's personality. Each member he had hand selected for their wit, skill, or potential utility and their varied mix of rexline, geshem, human, satyr, and even a salvax gave the ship a cosmopolitan air. The Duke was dressed in fine cotton and silk clothes dyed brightly orange and yellow accented with bits of purple to display his Autumn belonging and Spring heritage as well as to simply draw attention with the ostentatious color scheme. He wore a large floppy hat in the geshem style that blocked the sun from reaching his lightly tanned skin and his boots appeared to be possibly "prevazan leather" a rather illegal material made from the dried and tanned hide of a prevaz. There were markets for such things though and it was little doubt the small duke had contacts in such markets.

The Duke was relatively informed of the situation in Nand though the rapid deaths of many of its royals had left him somewhat confused as to the proper state of things. Nonetheless he was able to identify the man who was clearly king and leader of the kingdom and he approached him with a friendly smile and a bow that erred on insulting in its grandiosity.

"Greetings King Ardashir and thank you for your invitation to this event. Prince Kusal, it is a pleasure to see another old man still active in this world," the impish Aeldir smiled at his own jest for he showed none of time's ravages upon his child-like face despite being well twice and again Kusal's age.
Kusal returned the Duke's smile with one of his own. "Some of us wear the weight of our years better than others, it seems."

"It is our pleasure to welcome you to Farbensa, Duke Sand," the king said. "Caer Coll is a valued friend and ally of our kingdom and I hope shall never have cause to doubt the friendship and goodwill of the League, whatever else may come to pass."

"Those are very fine shoes, if I may say so," Kusal added with a slight smirk, though not without a glance around presumably to ensure there were no jabu-moranines within audible distance. "We once had a general who favoured the same source for his clothing and armour, though he is sadly no longer with us."

"It may come back into fashion soon," the king said - and was that the trace of a smile? "It has yet to be seen how firm a hand Fidigis will require."


Avonlea

Once again, Aris traveled with a large retinue. Her attendants as desperate as she for a pretense to flee their realm that had become a bastion of death and suffering in the recent years. They had traveled overland to Fantastigoria Primacentra and then sailed their way to the Provinces holdings, well provisioned by the Fantastigorians under the rule of the Aeldir. Aris had stared long and silently upon the invitation before she had summoned Lady Fenille to attend her. Aris had been a captive of the Council still when the tragedy of Princess Linna's death had occurred. Though the Queen was sorely hesitant to send another of her maids to the violent and often unsettled Kingdom of Nand, ultimately she left the burden of decision to Fenille, as to her daughter's fate. She had chosen to travel with her Nend Ambassador Kamran, who's manner towards her had grown almost overly formal after her wedding to the Dullahan. Though it pained her to know the grief she had unwittingly cause the pink haired man, she had thought perhaps he might like some time amongst his own people.

And so they found themselves in Farbensa, the Nand climate much warmer than in their own realms, and summer ever more so. Aris wore a silver-strapped gown with a light pink bodice that laced up in the back. The skirt was fashioned from strips of airy material in pinks and creams that floated in the breeze when she walked. In true, the garment was less modest than was her wont, though she knew that the vaulted Nand chastity did not extend to their mode of dress, and she felt not unduly uncomfortable to be so exposed. The Queen's eyes fell upon the half-Nand girl Helaine, and she reflected sadly upon how that same chastity had likely driven the poor Nend King to suicide upon the breach of that taboo. Once Fenille had heard the truth of the tale, she had never forgiven herself, and remained much changed and reserved to this day nearly twelve years later.

After the Herald had sang their proper introductions, their retinue curtsied prettily to the King,

"Glad tidings and felicitations, King Ardashir. We thank you for the invitation to your.." Her voice trailed off as she realized she was unsure of what exactly she attended,

"Realm." Aris recovered gracefully and smiled warmly at the imposing man.
"My lady," the king replied. "We are honoured that you chose to attend in person, and pleased to play host to the esteemed Queen of Avonlea. I wish to express in person my regrets at your rough treatment at the hands of the Prophetesses. I hope and trust you are fully recovered?"


Unable to leave Anceris at the present time, Emperor Spiridon instead saw fit to dispatch his son, Grand Prince Ferran de Altan to Nand to see to whatever it was that so concerned King Ardashir. Thus far the young man had only had the opportunity to travel to the neighbouring land of Cerilin on a handful of occasions and the short trips there and back scarcely prepared him for the long voyage across the Ocean Sea. While his Ancerin blood insulated him from the effects of seasickness, he nevertheless felt the monotony most keenly and he was glad for the short stop they had made in Fantastigoria to restock their supplies. Other than that the rest of the trip was spent sparring with his guards (the ship's captain had forbidden the use of weapons on deck) and reading the same rather antiquated book on Nand culture (apparently the author thought they were descended from chameleons could alter their colouration at will, needless to say, the prince chose to treat the book as fiction).
Eventually they found themselves in the warm lands of the Nand and the distant port of Farbensa. While the city was no match for the imperial splendour of Azandria, it had an exotic air to it and was still a beautiful city and Ferran was glad to disembark and at last make his way toward the palace. He arrived at the palace of King Terit flanked by a half dozen red-coated guards while he himself wore a shirt and pants both in white linen and an open robe of light Fantastigorian silk in soft blue with silver embroidery. His long brown hair was tied back into a single, short braid, he wore a plain mithril circlet at his brow and a priceless sword of the same was belted at his waist. After the heralds announced him, he and his guards all sank to one knee.
"Blessings of The Lady upon you Your Majesty. My father sends his regrets that he is unable to attend personally as affairs in Anceris require his full attention."

OoC Note: While I am aware that mithril forging technology does not exist, I'm running with the idea that weapons and such made of mithril do exist, but are extremely rare with a price tag to match.
"No apologies on your part are required, Grand Prince," Ardashir replied. He had a rather chilly manner, though that was like as not down to his lack of smile as much as anything else. "We would not expect the Emperor himself to make such a long and arduous voyage by sea."

"Though from what we understand," Kusal added, "your people are fine seafarers. Are we correct in that belief? I am afraid our own people have never been at home upon the waves, and we must rely on our allies for their expertise in such matters."


To suggest that the Primal and the Nanda did not like each other was to suggest that a flood was wet. Primus was a trading partner to the league and the two had fought a war together, but that did not stop the two warrior cultures from snipping at each other. Nand saw Primus as a realm full of unwashed savages, with the decorum of a rabid donkey and a smell twice as bad. Primus saw Nand as hypocritical cowards and weaklings whose opinion was worth less than nothing. While not enemies by any official terms, they certainly weren't friends. They both got along well with Ambrose, and that was the extent of their interaction when they could help it.

And probably for that reason, Nand had decided it would be a good idea to not only invite the warrior women that they didn't like, but to insult them in the invitation. ('Whoring it up' may be innocent enough in Primus but it is very insulting in most other cultures after all; one would wonder if they didn't respect the Imperium)

There were multiple pressing domestic matters that needed attending and didn't require kow-towing to someone who hated them. As such, Phelnia saw no reason to come herself. The Princesses Ionia, Vanara and Illydae Primus arrived with a small guard of the Custodia Alta, the former for complaining about Denippe's battle a little too loudly, and the latter to ensure something went wrong. Vanara had gone of her own will; perhaps to find a boy, perhaps to get away from her mother's twin. Either way.

Ionia's moonsilver armor was a deep sapphire, and shined to perfection. She had midnight black hair and striking amber eyes, almost like a hawk's. She kept a short sword belted to her right side, with the head of a dragon carved into the hilt. Illydae wore her moonsilver fighting claws, and emerald armor. Beneath that, her clothes were blue. The woman had hair just slightly more gray than her younger sister's, though she only looked to be in her late 30s. Vanara (https://dncache-mauganscorp.netdna-ssl.com/thumbseg/1703/1703559-bigthumbnail.jpg) was in her prime, and her armor was blood red with golden trim. She alone wore nothing blue, and carried a sword with a hilt long enough to be wielded two-handed, but a blade the length to be used by one. Like her mother (and her mother's twin) she had long, wine-red hair.

"Ardashir, wasn't it?" Illydae slammed her fist into her breastplate as a salute, and her younger companions followed suit. "Pleasure."
If the Primal had been hoping to provoke a reaction with their informal address, they were to be disappointed, for Ardashir remained impassive, and nodded politely. "Be assured we take as much pleasure in your attendance as you do."

"We were sorry to hear of the fate of Queen Breydice," Kusal added. "Your people fought valiantly alongside us to take that territory in the War of Prevaz Treachery, and it saddens us to know you must still fight to retain it."

Whether true or not for his own part, Kusal's words did not quite hold true for all the Nanda court, as any who had witnessed karapan Morvarid laugh at the news would witness - though surely none would be so undiplomatic as to inform the Primal of that. To the sceptics, Breydice's fall in Aneth (as it was still commonly known) had reinforced their assumption that the Primal reliance on individual prowess was ill-founded, and that without the discipline and generalship displayed by their Nanda allies in that war, their troops and leaders were left too vulnerable. Not all would be so damning, but Morvarid had never been a moderate in such matters.

The general observed the armed and armoured delegation from a distance, one of a number of pairs of eyes they likely felt upon them as they arrived. She was absent her skull helm and armour, but nevertheless wore the red silk cloak of a Nanda karapan, an expression of barely repressed disdain clear upon her face.

"To think we must play host to these badaburjamina now," she muttered to her husband, at least having the good sense to do so quietly and out of Primal earshot. "I never thought I'd see the day when such barbarians walked brazenly and armed through a royal palace of Nand."

"Compared to some of the others, the Primals are the acme of civilisation," Daras replied. "At least they're human. Beast-folk, hairy knuckle-draggers from the south, maybe even some of the juba-morana, if we're really unlucky... I hear the Aeldir have an actual animal in their delegation. The Primal may not know to conduct themselves properly, but they are our allies, if not exactly our friends, so try to keep a civil tongue in your head."

[HalfTangible]

If the Primal had been hoping to provoke a reaction with their informal address, they were to be disappointed, for Ardashir remained impassive, and nodded politely. "Be assured we take as much pleasure in your attendance as you do."

"We were sorry to hear of the fate of Queen Breydice," Kusal added. "Your people fought valiantly alongside us to take that territory in the War of Prevaz Treachery, and it saddens us to know you must still fight to retain it.""Yes. Well." Illydae seemed to brighten up a bit. She had been testing the Nanda, yes, but not in the way they thought. Ardashir had a good handle on himself that was atypical for men. Her tone shifted from casual to formal, as he deserved. "Your sorrows are appreciated, good king, but unnecessary. My sister went to Colonia with the intent to die in battle, and she did. Quite a last fight too, I'm told."

Illydae was certain that Breydice slaughtering her two thousand enemies to a man and only losing 3 of her own before succumbing to exhaustion was an exaggeration, but it still bespoke of her abilities that such a legend rose around her to begin with.

"Speaking of Colonia's rebellion, High Queen Phelnia is so very sorry she couldn't come herself, but she is seeing to certain domestic matters that require her personal attention, including an... let's call it 'inquiry', into House Florus' management of the region."


Whether true or not for his own part, Kusal's words did not quite hold true for all the Nanda court, as any who had witnessed karapan Morvarid laugh at the news would witness - though surely none would be so undiplomatic as to inform the Primal of that. To the sceptics, Breydice's fall in Aneth (as it was still commonly known) had reinforced their assumption that the Primal reliance on individual prowess was ill-founded, and that without the discipline and generalship displayed by their Nanda allies in that war, their troops and leaders were left too vulnerable. Not all would be so damning, but Morvarid had never been a moderate in such matters.

The general observed the armed and armoured delegation from a distance, one of a number of pairs of eyes they likely felt upon them as they arrived. She was absent her skull helm and armour, but nevertheless wore the red silk cloak of a Nanda karapan, an expression of barely repressed disdain clear upon her face.

"To think we must play host to these badaburjamina now," she muttered to her husband, at least having the good sense to do so quietly and out of Primal earshot. "I never thought I'd see the day when such barbarians walked brazenly and armed through a royal palace of Nand."

"Compared to some of the others, the Primals are the acme of civilisation," Daras replied. "At least they're human. Beast-folk, hairy knuckle-draggers from the south, maybe even some of the juba-morana, if we're really unlucky... I hear the Aeldir have an actual animal in their delegation. The Primal may not know to conduct themselves properly, but they are our allies, if not exactly our friends, so try to keep a civil tongue in your head."

="It would give me great pleasure to cast these cowards upon the stones."= Vanara muttered as soon as they had moved out of earshot. ="Would they even fight back if they had no orders?"=

="Now now, niece."= Ionia grinned and wagged her finger at her. ="It's not polite to insult the hosts."=

="No more than it is to insult your guests. 'Don't blow your nose on the curtain'? Really?! I want to now but only to be contrary!"= She growled and kicked at the stone beneath her feet. ="Nandir are the most annoying sacks of hypocritical **** I've ever seen. Pah! Where was their 'discipline' when their own Princess was dying alone? Oh right, it failed them so hard they had to make an entire religion around her. Where was it when their old king - what was his name? - ran off with some Avonlean girl?"=

="Isfandir. And they never lost their entire army to betrayal and rebellion, as we have."= Ionia pointed out, smile fading. ="And as little as discipline would do for us, it's done good for them."=

="Discipline my ass. All they have are numbers. Any one of our warriors is a match for three of theirs!"=

"And last I checked, they have more than twice that."= Ionia growled, no longer even trying to feign amusement. ="They are now our allies, and at least one of our friends would fight with them if it came to that. Just be polite and try not to piss anyone off."=

="Ugh, fine. Let's just find out what this thing is for and go home."=

Ionia raised an eyebrow. ="We can't bring any of the men home with us."=

="Oh come on, that's just not fair!"=

[Reggiejam]

Kusal returned the Duke's smile with one of his own. "Some of us wear the weight of our years better than others, it seems."

"It is our pleasure to welcome you to Farbensa, Duke Sand," the king said. "Caer Coll is a valued friend and ally of our kingdom and I hope shall never have cause to doubt the friendship and goodwill of the League, whatever else may come to pass."

"Those are very fine shoes, if I may say so," Kusal added with a slight smirk, though not without a glance around presumably to ensure there were no jabu-moranines within audible distance. "We once had a general who favoured the same source for his clothing and armour, though he is sadly no longer with us."

"It may come back into fashion soon," the king said - and was that the trace of a smile? "It has yet to be seen how firm a hand Fidigis will require."

"Perhaps on the body but not in the mind," the Duke answered Prince Kusal solemnly, "Memories tend to have a constant weight across all peoples."

The Duke's dour expression was replaced with a grin at Kusal and the king's comments on his shoes and he stood to show them off, resting his heels in turn and flashing them side to side in the sunlight. He looked up at the king's threat towards the League's most recent battlefield with a raised eyebrow and a mischievous smirk.

"I've found certain articles never quite go out of style. The cobbler who made these said they were the smallest pair he'd ever made. Said it was barely the tail-end of the creature they came from. Well, I didn't want to be wasteful so I ordered three more pairs!"

The Duke laughed, a childish friendly laugh that belied the dark subject of his jest. Still smiling the Duke looked around for a moment before returning his attention to the king and prince.

"Your letter didn't mention what this event was about. Not that I mind, the mystery was half the reason I came, but I am curious if I will be expected to act as a representative of the Rose Courts and Lady Autumn or if I am merely a foreign guest?"

[Aedilred]

"Speaking of Colonia's rebellion, High Queen Phelnia is so very sorry she couldn't come herself, but she is seeing to certain domestic matters that require her personal attention, including an... let's call it 'inquiry', into House Florus' management of the region."

="It would give me great pleasure to cast these cowards upon the stones."= Vanara muttered as soon as they had moved out of earshot. ="Would they even fight back if they had no orders?"=

="Now now, niece."= Ionia grinned and wagged her finger at her. ="It's not polite to insult the hosts."=

="No more than it is to insult your guests. 'Don't blow your nose on the curtain'? Really?! I want to now but only to be contrary!"= She growled and kicked at the stone beneath her feet. ="Nandir are the most annoying sacks of hypocritical **** I've ever seen. Pah! Where was their 'discipline' when their own Princess was dying alone? Oh right, it failed them so hard they had to make an entire religion around her. Where was it when their old king - what was his name? - ran off with some Avonlean girl?"=

="Isfandir. And they never lost their entire army to betrayal and rebellion, as we have."= Ionia pointed out, smile fading. ="And as little as discipline would do for us, it's done good for them."=

="Discipline my ass. All they have are numbers. Any one of our warriors is a match for three of theirs!"=

"And last I checked, they have more than twice that."= Ionia growled, no longer even trying to feign amusement. ="They are now our allies, and at least one of our friends would fight with them if it came to that. Just be polite and try not to piss anyone off."=

="Ugh, fine. Let's just find out what this thing is for and go home."=

Ionia raised an eyebrow. ="We can't bring any of the men home with us."=

="Oh come on, that's just not fair!"=

"I wish you luck in your inquiry," Kusal said, looking thoughtful. "Though if our experience of the area is any guide, I wonder how much House Florus can be held accountable. There are many of our people who would say the snakefolk are an inherently treacherous, ungrateful and untrustworthy people, and that any attempt to govern them as one would another region is doomed to failure."

"The priests say we should banish them back to the underworld from whence they came," Ardashir said, "and some of my staff say likewise - that we should stamp out the last vestiges of Prevaz government above the ground utterly. Such measures proved successful in Llurikesh, although admittedly many of the snakes fled the region before order could be imposed. A division of the Grand Army is gathering on the borders of the independent Prevaz kingdom in the south, though measures for Fidigis have yet to be determined, and I am as yet unconvinced of the strategic necessity."

Kusal nodded at his grandson's words. "But then, we have not been obliged to face a Prevaz army in the field in nearly a generation, while Primus is accosted by rebels - rebels who have slain a High Queen, no less. Even if she so wished it, it is dangerous to let such events pass too lightly. Then again, if I have learned nothing else in my life, it is that a velvet glove can sometimes succeed where an iron fist fails."

"But that is only worthwhile if the target is worth preserving," the king said, with a slight flicker of a smile on his lips. "At any rate, should you find that harsh measures against the people of Colonia are necessary, I am sure you would find a willing market for your captives in the League. If necessary I can order a minimum price for purchase."

"Indeed," Kusal affirmed. "In Nand there will always be demand for slaves who can work productively underground or otherwise in darkness, the South Sea Company will ever need oarsmen, and I gather the Nevarri and Fiid are in need of miners - work for which the juba-morana are ideally suited."



"Perhaps on the body but not in the mind," the Duke answered Prince Kusal solemnly, "Memories tend to have a constant weight across all peoples."

The Duke's dour expression was replaced with a grin at Kusal and the king's comments on his shoes and he stood to show them off, resting his heels in turn and flashing them side to side in the sunlight. He looked up at the king's threat towards the League's most recent battlefield with a raised eyebrow and a mischievous smirk.

"I've found certain articles never quite go out of style. The cobbler who made these said they were the smallest pair he'd ever made. Said it was barely the tail-end of the creature they came from. Well, I didn't want to be wasteful so I ordered three more pairs!"

The Duke laughed, a childish friendly laugh that belied the dark subject of his jest. Still smiling the Duke looked around for a moment before returning his attention to the king and prince.

"Your letter didn't mention what this event was about. Not that I mind, the mystery was half the reason I came, but I am curious if I will be expected to act as a representative of the Rose Courts and Lady Autumn or if I am merely a foreign guest?"
Kusal gave a sad smile. "True enough," he said. Since his return he had tried not to dwell on all that it was he had lost, but when momentarily reminded it was all he could do to keep tears from his eyes. He had buried his wife and two children - the third only excepted because his body had never been found - and now a grandson and great-grandson had followed them into the after. For all that the kingdom might forever stand as his legacy, his family had been trimmed to two young grandsons, a sullen bastard he only accepted as his because the law made it inconvenient not to, and a granddaughter he had never met. Was this his curse, he wondered? To see all those he loved consigned to the flames, to walk the earth forever alone? Would in time he come to take such losses in his stride, to view others with the same casual disregard as did the Aeldir?

He had fought for his life, on the battlefield and in the corridors of power, many times, but in some respects it would now come as a relief to be assured
that one day he would die.

"Ah, you wish to know which hat it is you wear today?" Kusal asked, in response to the Duke's question. "The invitation to you was extended on the basis of your standing within Caer Coll, though you may conduct yourself as you like."

"We have learned from experience that the Aeldir approach to diplomacy is not that we would expect from any others," Ardashir added. "On more than one occasion now a misplaced word, trivial misunderstanding, or disguised intention has led to death or slaughter against our understood diplomatic conventions, whether deserved or not. The reaction of senior members of the Courts to surprises is unpredictable, and I cannot place my guests at such risk should anyone feel they need to act on behalf of the Demesne at this event."

"As to the mystery, we must apologise for the secrecy surrounding that. It serves two purposes - firstly a degree of security for the individuals concerned, and secondly because in all honesty we are not entirely certain that all we hope for will indeed attend. Better to find ourselves with nothing behind a curtain to reveal than to announce ahead of time what we have only to find it unavailable."

He seemed slightly uncomfortable, as if there were something he was not saying, or the difficulty of talking around the subject without uttering an outright lie were difficult. After a moment he added, "We do trust Lady Autumn, you understand. At least to keep her word, if not always to act in our best interests - though we would expect that of none but our closest friends, so that is not to speak ill of her. But for all that the Autumn Court represents the public face of the Courts, it has consistently proven difficult to deal with it without also having to reckon with the others, and they are often... less amenable to normal diplomatic procedure. That is another reason for your own invitation, as you have both an appreciation of non-Aeldir cultures, ours in particular, and stand somewhat independent of the Courts proper, at least by our understanding."

[HalfTangible]

"I wish you luck in your inquiry," Kusal said, looking thoughtful. "Though if our experience of the area is any guide, I wonder how much House Florus can be held accountable. There are many of our people who would say the snakefolk are an inherently treacherous, ungrateful and untrustworthy people, and that any attempt to govern them as one would another region is doomed to failure."

"The priests say we should banish them back to the underworld from whence they came," Ardashir said, "and some of my staff say likewise - that we should stamp out the last vestiges of Prevaz government above the ground utterly. Such measures proved successful in Llurikesh, although admittedly many of the snakes fled the region before order could be imposed. A division of the Grand Army is gathering on the borders of the independent Prevaz kingdom in the south, though measures for Fidigis have yet to be determined, and I am as yet unconvinced of the strategic necessity."

Kusal nodded at his grandson's words. "But then, we have not been obliged to face a Prevaz army in the field in nearly a generation, while Primus is accosted by rebels - rebels who have slain a High Queen, no less. Even if she so wished it, it is dangerous to let such events pass too lightly. Then again, if I have learned nothing else in my life, it is that a velvet glove can sometimes succeed where an iron fist fails."

"But that is only worthwhile if the target is worth preserving," the king said, with a slight flicker of a smile on his lips. "At any rate, should you find that harsh measures against the people of Colonia are necessary, I am sure you would find a willing market for your captives in the League. If necessary I can order a minimum price for purchase."

"Indeed," Kusal affirmed. "In Nand there will always be demand for slaves who can work productively underground or otherwise in darkness, the South Sea Company will ever need oarsmen, and I gather the Nevarri and Fiid are in need of miners - work for which the juba-morana are ideally suited."

Ionia held up one hand. "With all due respect my lord, if House Florus is foolish enough to employ inherently untrustworthy beings to perform their duties, then yes, they can be blamed, perhaps even more so than the beings themselves. Such creatures, at least, do not know any better."

"Lady Florus will answer, one way or another."

Ionia wasn't sure she believed that the Whansis and the Prevaz were without scruples or honesty as the Nandir suggested, but she was already contradicting them once over.

"I like an iron fist. My dear sister prefers..." At this, her eyes glinted. "more subtle means of pacification. Breydice had abdicated her position before leaving, so their punishment will be... well, it depends on the exact cause of the rebellion. Mismanagement and a lack of resources fall on House Florus' head, not the commoners."

In truth, Illydae hated the cloak-and-dagger bull**** that Phelnia was pulling. Colonia's rebels had lost many of their primary members lately, and no one was sure why. Phelnia would only smirk at Illydae when she asked, which in the emerald princess' eyes was tantamount to a confession.

At the mention of slaves, Illydae's smile grew cruel, while her two companions looked at each other, uncomfortable. "I will pass the message along to our high queen and keep it in mind myself." Illydae mused, rubbing her chin. "May they be sold individually or do you require them in bulk?"

[Zayuz]

The Dynasty of Escaye

For the second time, Queen Lilia and her delegation had set sail across the sea; not interrupted by the infamous Nevarri pirates that sunk her fleet on her way to the Arandi Science Fair.. It was a shame, for this time they were ready. A small group of Union vessels pulled into shore at Farbensa, numbering thirty in all but with many more posted in the seas between the event and the Union's homeland. She was here to attend an event after all, not to wage a battle on the shore. The folk of the Allied Provinces were good friends to the southern federation, and she had no reason at all to suspect any kind of stab in the back while at the event. As far as Lilia was aware, she had few enemies - Those which still existed being small in both numbers and influence. Recent rebellions proved just as much, with the Queen coming to quarrel with one of her past allies.. Tomar the Just. Oh, if only she had allowed him his place in the grand hunt.. Perhaps he would have been satisfied with regaining his honor in such a way rather than engaging in a hopeless battle.

Lilia's thoughts were ever of the past, so instead she sought to take her mind off of things through a bit of diplomacy. Her past fears of the dreaded interaction between nations had left her, making her all the better of a ruler for it. She entered the old palace of Farbensa with two guards by her side - One of which being the famed Garelis, victor of the duels at the Grand Tournament. The Queen wore a regal green dress, adorned with her traditional jewelry and such that came with representing her division. Emerald in particular made for the most common of gems on her outfit. The almost human queen approached her host patiently, each step being taken carefully; as if afraid to make a mark in the beautiful flooring of the palace.. She quite liked the style of the architecture here.. The thought of doing something of a similar style in her homeland crossed her mind, but that was for another time.

A wicked scar rested diagonal upon her face, contrasting the otherwise serene look of the southern ruler. It was almost glaringly noticeable, and she made no attempt to hide it with a veil or the like. ..Even if she wanted to, it would be impossible. "Well met, dearest allies and newly crowned king of Nand. It flatters my people to be invited to this event, and as such I thank you sincerely for it." Her head bows to the stoic king, his almost intimidating presence overshadowing the rather quiet Queen. She had not seen much of him, but she assumed that they were both people of few and careful words.. But for entirely different reasons. Lilia's silence came from her lack of confidence, while Ardashir had something more akin to a calculating, judgmental stare. With the recent assault she had hardened herself, but she was by all means still the same woman.

The familiar green aspis hung on the Queen's shoulder, tongue flicking as it observed the area.. It was said that Lilia had named it after all these years.. Verraiel. ..And the name of the second was called Gloria, which she had only recently acquired. Speaking of which, the small yellow reptile (Gloria) followed her several paces behind, keeping it's gaze held straight and advancing loyally to Lilia's side where it stopped and stood to her left. After Avlen had died, the topaz colored aspis had been entrusted into her care.. And she took the role as sincerely as she could.

[Elemental]

"No apologies on your part are required, Grand Prince," Ardashir replied. He had a rather chilly manner, though that was like as not down to his lack of smile as much as anything else. "We would not expect the Emperor himself to make such a long and arduous voyage by sea."

"Though from what we understand," Kusal added, "your people are fine seafarers. Are we correct in that belief? I am afraid our own people have never been at home upon the waves, and we must rely on our allies for their expertise in such matters."

Ferran and his guards rose to their feet. The guards bowed once more to King Ardashir before exiting the hall and leaving the Ancerin prince alone.
"Yes, you are correct in believing that. The sea is visible from all parts of the Isle of Anceris and its allure is undeniable. Long has it promised riches and adventure beyond one's wildest dreams that my people have a saying; To seek one's fortune one should learn to tie knots."
He paused for a brief moment as if considering whether or not to explain the connection before continuing on a different tack (sailing puns!).
"Please forgive my haste Your Majesty in making this inquiry now so soon after our introduction, but what has come to your attention here so far from the Empyrium that warrants the attention of the Lady's Faithful?"

[Mary_Sue]

"My lady," the king replied. "We are honoured that you chose to attend in person, and pleased to play host to the esteemed Queen of Avonlea. I wish to express in person my regrets at your rough treatment at the hands of the Prophetesses. I hope and trust you are fully recovered?"

"I am, thank you." Aris's smile was only slightly forced at the mention of the dreaded Council. She lightly rubbed the flesh of her inner wrists reflexively where there was still a slight pink tracery of scars from when she had been held bound. A small physical reminder of though she was a Queen, she was as mortal and vulnerable as any other within her realm. Her recent miscarriage had served to drive home that point all too well.

"I was saddened to hear of your recent family losses, your Grace. You have my condolences." Indeed, plagues could be added to her ever-growing list of physical forces that cared not for royalty over the common man.

"Perhaps it will be some small comfort that I bring to you an estranged family member. Lady Fenille and Helaine have traveled with us." She turned as her retinue parted to allow Fenille and her Nand daughter forward. Fenille was still lovely, though the joy that she had sought to share with the unhappy King had long since vanished beneath the long years of guilt and self-blame. Her daughter Helaine was indigo as her royal father had been, though she shared her mother's petite size and feminine features. They both curtsied gracefully to the King and awaited his pleasure.

[woolli264]

Queen Eleanor arrived with eight other Furfolk and two Grem. As usual she marveled at the great size and splendor of the palace and it's beautiful stone architecture, unlike any found within her own lands. "Truly," she thought, "the creations of the big folk will never cease to amaze me."

Her party contained four Sasu warriors (all furfolk) including a particular warrior known as Leon, considered to be the current master of the art. There were also three leaders of various merchant organizations and a priest of the Order of the Eternal Soul to help advise her should serious decisions come up at the event. The short fuzzy creatures were unsure of what the exact purpose of this event was so they came prepared for several situations. They had three Dire Wolves each pulling a cart of supplies including food, weapons, treasures and other useful goods. The only one who bore arms was Queen Eleanor carrying the Moonsilver axe won by her people at the Exalted Tournament. It was a single handed weapon of impeccable craftsmanship that had seen plenty of action in the conquering of regions and the quelling of rebellions. The people had come to know it as "Eleanor's Hatchet."

The two Grem bore the Crest of the Ruby Legion and were only there because they had reluctantly promised not to cause too much trouble. The pair had dark green skin and long pointed ears but ones nose was long and hooked while the other was small and bent oddly. Hooknose was a little taller than his partner Oddface but the two were still extremely short by human standards, neither quite reached three feet. They carried no weapons and looked around nervously. They had heard that the big folk do not like small, less than pretty creatures. The fact that this was not an Aeldir hosted event did little to console them but in reality they looked far better than the Larimps and had washed up with the rest of the group to avoid foul odors.

When they had stopped near the King, Eleanor spoke, "Greetings good king! Your palace is a truly beautiful place. I have heard of your people and spied them at other events but never seen one up close until now and I do say that I am quite impressed."

[PepperP.]

"Perhaps on the body but not in the mind," the Duke answered Prince Kusal solemnly, "Memories tend to have a constant weight across all peoples."

The Duke's dour expression was replaced with a grin at Kusal and the king's comments on his shoes and he stood to show them off, resting his heels in turn and flashing them side to side in the sunlight. He looked up at the king's threat towards the League's most recent battlefield with a raised eyebrow and a mischievous smirk.

"I've found certain articles never quite go out of style. The cobbler who made these said they were the smallest pair he'd ever made. Said it was barely the tail-end of the creature they came from. Well, I didn't want to be wasteful so I ordered three more pairs!"

The Duke laughed, a childish friendly laugh that belied the dark subject of his jest. Still smiling the Duke looked around for a moment before returning his attention to the king and prince.

"Your letter didn't mention what this event was about. Not that I mind, the mystery was half the reason I came, but I am curious if I will be expected to act as a representative of the Rose Courts and Lady Autumn or if I am merely a foreign guest?"

Protos Archigos Baram Asker and his Polemarchos, Nyle Darkthorne Drivas, Prince of Avonlea had taken a seat off of the main courtyard where King Ardashir was greeting the newly arrived delegations. This was a Nand affair after all, and though the Protos wished to attend to display their continued solidarity, it was not his intention to usurp the spotlight away from the new Nand King. They sat together in a relatively cool alcove next to a grand fountain, where the breeze occasionally sprayed them with fine droplets which was a welcome reprieve from the hot summer day.

They had situated themselves so that they might view the goings on from a distance. Nyle had looked upon sly Duke Fox's arrival with a raised eyebrow, wondering what might his former companion be up to. If he knew Duke Fox, it might well be just about anything. Nyle arose from the alcove and walked to where the stone archway separated their courtyard from Ardashir's and leaned nonchalantly against the frame, awaiting the Fox to be finished with his pleasantries with the King.

[Aedilred]

Ionia held up one hand. "With all due respect my lord, if House Florus is foolish enough to employ inherently untrustworthy beings to perform their duties, then yes, they can be blamed, perhaps even more so than the beings themselves. Such creatures, at least, do not know any better."

"Lady Florus will answer, one way or another."

Ionia wasn't sure she believed that the Whansis and the Prevaz were without scruples or honesty as the Nandir suggested, but she was already contradicting them once over.

"I like an iron fist. My dear sister prefers..." At this, her eyes glinted. "more subtle means of pacification. Breydice had abdicated her position before leaving, so their punishment will be... well, it depends on the exact cause of the rebellion. Mismanagement and a lack of resources fall on House Florus' head, not the commoners."

In truth, Illydae hated the cloak-and-dagger bull**** that Phelnia was pulling. Colonia's rebels had lost many of their primary members lately, and no one was sure why. Phelnia would only smirk at Illydae when she asked, which in the emerald princess' eyes was tantamount to a confession.

At the mention of slaves, Illydae's smile grew cruel, while her two companions looked at each other, uncomfortable. "I will pass the message along to our high queen and keep it in mind myself." Illydae mused, rubbing her chin. "May they be sold individually or do you require them in bulk?"
"As far as such details go, I am not the person to speak to," Ardashir said, with a thin smile. "I am, after all, not a merchant, and major trade agreements with foreign powers are generally handled by the South Sea Company. I would suggest you speak to one of their agents regarding any such arrangements: there are a number present today, I believe."


Ferran and his guards rose to their feet. The guards bowed once more to King Ardashir before exiting the hall and leaving the Ancerin prince alone.
"Yes, you are correct in believing that. The sea is visible from all parts of the Isle of Anceris and its allure is undeniable. Long has it promised riches and adventure beyond one's wildest dreams that my people have a saying; To seek one's fortune one should learn to tie knots."
He paused for a brief moment as if considering whether or not to explain the connection before continuing on a different tack (sailing puns!).
"Please forgive my haste Your Majesty in making this inquiry now so soon after our introduction, but what has come to your attention here so far from the Empyrium that warrants the attention of the Lady's Faithful?"
"A woman." The king paused for a moment, his eyes narrowed, uncertain for the first time. "I must apologise for the mystery, but there has been a degree of uncertainty about the whole business. There was a prophecy, concerning the future of the kingdom and two individuals who would affect it. I believe I know who they are; indeed I believe I have found one of them. I have received word that she will be here... one who can speak for the oppressed and dispossessed."

"One who, we believe, is of significance to those who follow the Pale Lady," Kusal added.


"I am, thank you." Aris's smile was only slightly forced at the mention of the dreaded Council. She lightly rubbed the flesh of her inner wrists reflexively where there was still a slight pink tracery of scars from when she had been held bound. A small physical reminder of though she was a Queen, she was as mortal and vulnerable as any other within her realm. Her recent miscarriage had served to drive home that point all too well.

"I was saddened to hear of your recent family losses, your Grace. You have my condolences." Indeed, plagues could be added to her ever-growing list of physical forces that cared not for royalty over the common man.

"Perhaps it will be some small comfort that I bring to you an estranged family member. Lady Fenille and Helaine have traveled with us." She turned as her retinue parted to allow Fenille and her Nand daughter forward. Fenille was still lovely, though the joy that she had sought to share with the unhappy King had long since vanished beneath the long years of guilt and self-blame. Her daughter Helaine was indigo as her royal father had been, though she shared her mother's petite size and feminine features. They both curtsied gracefully to the King and awaited his pleasure.
The king nodded curtly at her expression of sorrow. Even for one so apparently hard of heart as he, the loss of a twin was a hard thing to bear.

He brightened slightly when Helaine was introduced, and knelt to meet her eye level better before extending a hand to grasp her shoulder.

"A pleasure to meet you, finally, Helaine," he said, and smiled with what seemed to be genuine warmth. "I am your brother, this-" he nodded towards Kusal- "your grandfather. We will make you a great queen."

He looked up towards Fenille. "Thank you for taking good care of her all these years."

[BladeofObliviom]

"As far as such details go, I am not the person to speak to," Ardashir said, with a thin smile. "I am, after all, not a merchant, and major trade agreements with foreign powers are generally handled by the South Sea Company. I would suggest you speak to one of their agents regarding any such arrangements: there are a number present today, I believe."

And indeed, almost at Ardashir's word, a trio of South Sea Company Secretaries shuffled into the Palatial Hall accompanied by a young man and a younger lady, laughing and conversing all the while. The three were all middle-aged Kroznat men, dressed in the typical uniform worn by high-ranking company secretaries: A dark robe and an orange headwrap. The young man accompanying them himself looked Kroznat to the naked eye, though upon closer inspection his blue eyes marked him as having some outside ancestry, and not Wormwood Native blood as many Kroznat do. He wore no headwear, unless one would count the tight black braid of his hair as one, but covered himself with a traditional Kroznat robe in a deep shade of green. The woman with him was of apparent Luskan ancestry, with markings and tattoos marking her as one of the Crab Clan for those well-versed in such things. Her smile was bright and her oddly silvery hair, laden with ribbons, fell to caress the backs of her knees, or would have if she were not also wearing a robe with a much brighter green tint.

The South Sea Company was not technically a political entity as such, but at the same time it was something of an open secret that the Company was a major mover and shaker in the Allied Provinces, with its directors wielding power comparable to the Crown of Nand itself. As such, those acquainted with politics might recognize the young fellow as Ichigo Al-Daremo. The name meant "son-of-none", though his mother was well-known; nevertheless, his father had abandoned him without so much as a name, and as a man he was entitled to his father's name, and not his mother's. While the South Sea Company was not a strictly hereditary organization, it was clear that he was being groomed to act as its Chairman someday: He was the closest thing available to an heir for that 'throne'.

Those acquainted with genealogy might even recall that Ichigo married his Firstwife in a quiet ceremony just a few months prior; no doubt the woman with him was the subject of his attachment. Though not precisely a secret, it certainly lacked the pomp and advertisement of a Royal Wedding, and would have been easily missed by those without a finger on the pulse of League affairs.

[Elemental]

"A woman." The king paused for a moment, his eyes narrowed, uncertain for the first time. "I must apologise for the mystery, but there has been a degree of uncertainty about the whole business. There was a prophecy, concerning the future of the kingdom and two individuals who would affect it. I believe I know who they are; indeed I believe I have found one of them. I have received word that she will be here... one who can speak for the oppressed and dispossessed."

"One who, we believe, is of significance to those who follow the Pale Lady," Kusal added.

Ferran's hand moved swiftly to his sword hilt, though he did not draw his blade. The mention of a woman and the apparent effect speaking of her had upon the Nand King had immediately conjured thoughts of the murderess Francesca, but as Ardashir continued the Ancerin prince uncertainty drowned out his initial suspicions and he relaxed his hand. Surely they didn't mean that she would speak against oppression? Still, he had to ask.
"You cannot mean that [/i]she[/i] will be here? I do not for one second believe that you would harbour one so vile, but I must be certain."

[Mary_Sue]

The king nodded curtly at her expression of sorrow. Even for one so apparently hard of heart as he, the loss of a twin was a hard thing to bear.

He brightened slightly when Helaine was introduced, and knelt to meet her eye level better before extending a hand to grasp her shoulder.

"A pleasure to meet you, finally, Helaine," he said, and smiled with what seemed to be genuine warmth. "I am your brother, this-" he nodded towards Kusal- "your grandfather. We will make you a great queen."

He looked up towards Fenille. "Thank you for taking good care of her all these years."

Helaine smiled shyly at the dour man and Kusal in turn, her eyes going to her mother questioningly as Ardashir spoke of queendom. Her eyes returned to the King and she placed her hand upon the arm that held her shoulder, noticing how very alike their skin colour was,

"I am pleased to meet you as well. I always wanted siblings." Though this serious King was not quite how she pictured those long wished for playmates, still she figured there was value in family, long estranged though they were.

Fenille smiled sadly at her daughter's wistful words,

"She is my daughter, Your Grace. Taking good care of her was the least I could do." Her voice faltered as she wished to apologise for leading his father astray, perhaps to the point of suicide but the words stilled on her tongue as the weight of her guilt silenced her and her head drooped as she was overcome with emotion.

[Reggiejam]

Kusal gave a sad smile. "True enough," he said. Since his return he had tried not to dwell on all that it was he had lost, but when momentarily reminded it was all he could do to keep tears from his eyes. He had buried his wife and two children - the third only excepted because his body had never been found - and now a grandson and great-grandson had followed them into the after. For all that the kingdom might forever stand as his legacy, his family had been trimmed to two young grandsons, a sullen bastard he only accepted as his because the law made it inconvenient not to, and a granddaughter he had never met. Was this his curse, he wondered? To see all those he loved consigned to the flames, to walk the earth forever alone? Would in time he come to take such losses in his stride, to view others with the same casual disregard as did the Aeldir?

He had fought for his life, on the battlefield and in the corridors of power, many times, but in some respects it would now come as a relief to be assured
that one day he would die.

"Ah, you wish to know which hat it is you wear today?" Kusal asked, in response to the Duke's question. "The invitation to you was extended on the basis of your standing within Caer Coll, though you may conduct yourself as you like."

"We have learned from experience that the Aeldir approach to diplomacy is not that we would expect from any others," Ardashir added. "On more than one occasion now a misplaced word, trivial misunderstanding, or disguised intention has led to death or slaughter against our understood diplomatic conventions, whether deserved or not. The reaction of senior members of the Courts to surprises is unpredictable, and I cannot place my guests at such risk should anyone feel they need to act on behalf of the Demesne at this event."

"As to the mystery, we must apologise for the secrecy surrounding that. It serves two purposes - firstly a degree of security for the individuals concerned, and secondly because in all honesty we are not entirely certain that all we hope for will indeed attend. Better to find ourselves with nothing behind a curtain to reveal than to announce ahead of time what we have only to find it unavailable."

He seemed slightly uncomfortable, as if there were something he was not saying, or the difficulty of talking around the subject without uttering an outright lie were difficult. After a moment he added, "We do trust Lady Autumn, you understand. At least to keep her word, if not always to act in our best interests - though we would expect that of none but our closest friends, so that is not to speak ill of her. But for all that the Autumn Court represents the public face of the Courts, it has consistently proven difficult to deal with it without also having to reckon with the others, and they are often... less amenable to normal diplomatic procedure. That is another reason for your own invitation, as you have both an appreciation of non-Aeldir cultures, ours in particular, and stand somewhat independent of the Courts proper, at least by our understanding."

Duke Sand bit back a smile at the Prince and King's careful words and nodded along. The dance not to declare the lords and ladies of the Rose Courts mad violence-prone psychopaths was quite entertaining. Isolation on Tir Gwydr and being Spring Boys without a Girl had allowed Sand and a number of his fellow ship wrecked survivors to develop a more appreciative and robust understanding of mortal culture. Should they have returned to Tir Amser it's likely they would have found the transition almost impossible and it was one of the reasons they had remained on the small island in their small city to the surprise of many island-home Aeldir. It was the only place where they might be free from the Ages upon Ages of strict adherence to Aeldir codes, laws, and customs. Certainly they remembered and respected their heritage when around Aeldir from Tir Amser but the colony of Spring Boys, and Duke Sand as their preeminent representative, were looked upon so oddly not only for being Boys without a Girl but for being so much less Aeldir than was expected.

"I understand and appreciate your candidness," out of the corner of his eye Sand glimpsed a familiar face, "I shall eagerly anticipate your reveal and in its absence seek enjoyment of the pleasantries you have provided. Your Grace, your highness."

With another more respectful bow the small Aeldir parted from the hosts and made his way towards where he had seen the familiar face of Nyle Darkthorne Drivas, Prince of Avonlea.


Protos Archigos Baram Asker and his Polemarchos, Nyle Darkthorne Drivas, Prince of Avonlea had taken a seat off of the main courtyard where King Ardashir was greeting the newly arrived delegations. This was a Nand affair after all, and though the Protos wished to attend to display their continued solidarity, it was not his intention to usurp the spotlight away from the new Nand King. They sat together in a relatively cool alcove next to a grand fountain, where the breeze occasionally sprayed them with fine droplets which was a welcome reprieve from the hot summer day.

They had situated themselves so that they might view the goings on from a distance. Nyle had looked upon sly Duke Fox's arrival with a raised eyebrow, wondering what might his former companion be up to. If he knew Duke Fox, it might well be just about anything. Nyle arose from the alcove and walked to where the stone archway separated their courtyard from Ardashir's and leaned nonchalantly against the frame, awaiting the Fox to be finished with his pleasantries with the King.

The small Duke smiled broadly as he approached Nyle, flinging his arms wide in anticipation of an embrace.

"Prince! I did not know I would find you here, what a pleasant surprise! Come and give old Duke Fox a hug my young friend!"

[PepperP.]

Nyle and the Fox



With another more respectful bow the small Aeldir parted from the hosts and made his way towards where he had seen the familiar face of Nyle Darkthorne Drivas, Prince of Avonlea.


The small Duke smiled broadly as he approached Nyle, flinging his arms wide in anticipation of an embrace.

"Prince! I did not know I would find you here, what a pleasant surprise! Come and give old Duke Fox a hug my young friend!"

Nyle remained leaning against the stone archway with his hands crossed, his face holding an expression of ill disguised amusement beneath a facade of nonchalance as he had yet deigned to look upon the imp.

"Of course I am here, My place is with my Protos and his place is here with his allies." He turned towards the small Aeldir as he was greeting him with his arms open. Nyle looked incredulously at the Fox for a moment before bursting into laughter.

"Miss me did you?" Nyle reached out to take Duke Fox's small arm in his hand and eschewed the hug, greeting him in the manner of Ambrosan men.

"The real question is what you are doing here." Nyle had also been wondering what any of them were doing here, though he wasn't about to let the old Fox in on that.

Baram and the CU


Queen Eleanor arrived with eight other Furfolk and two Grem. As usual she marveled at the great size and splendor of the palace and it's beautiful stone architecture, unlike any found within her own lands. "Truly," she thought, "the creations of the big folk will never cease to amaze me."

Her party contained four Sasu warriors (all furfolk) including a particular warrior known as Leon, considered to be the current master of the art. There were also three leaders of various merchant organizations and a priest of the Order of the Eternal Soul to help advise her should serious decisions come up at the event. The short fuzzy creatures were unsure of what the exact purpose of this event was so they came prepared for several situations. They had three Dire Wolves each pulling a cart of supplies including food, weapons, treasures and other useful goods. The only one who bore arms was Queen Eleanor carrying the Moonsilver axe won by her people at the Exalted Tournament. It was a single handed weapon of impeccable craftsmanship that had seen plenty of action in the conquering of regions and the quelling of rebellions. The people had come to know it as "Eleanor's Hatchet."

The two Grem bore the Crest of the Ruby Legion and were only there because they had reluctantly promised not to cause too much trouble. The pair had dark green skin and long pointed ears but ones nose was long and hooked while the other was small and bent oddly. Hooknose was a little taller than his partner Oddface but the two were still extremely short by human standards, neither quite reached three feet. They carried no weapons and looked around nervously. They had heard that the big folk do not like small, less than pretty creatures. The fact that this was not an Aeldir hosted event did little to console them but in reality they looked far better than the Larimps and had washed up with the rest of the group to avoid foul odors.

When they had stopped near the King, Eleanor spoke, "Greetings good king! Your palace is a truly beautiful place. I have heard of your people and spied them at other events but never seen one up close until now and I do say that I am quite impressed."


The Dynasty of Escaye

For the second time, Queen Lilia and her delegation had set sail across the sea; not interrupted by the infamous Nevarri pirates that sunk her fleet on her way to the Arandi Science Fair.. It was a shame, for this time they were ready. A small group of Union vessels pulled into shore at Farbensa, numbering thirty in all but with many more posted in the seas between the event and the Union's homeland. She was here to attend an event after all, not to wage a battle on the shore. The folk of the Allied Provinces were good friends to the southern federation, and she had no reason at all to suspect any kind of stab in the back while at the event. As far as Lilia was aware, she had few enemies - Those which still existed being small in both numbers and influence. Recent rebellions proved just as much, with the Queen coming to quarrel with one of her past allies.. Tomar the Just. Oh, if only she had allowed him his place in the grand hunt.. Perhaps he would have been satisfied with regaining his honor in such a way rather than engaging in a hopeless battle.

Lilia's thoughts were ever of the past, so instead she sought to take her mind off of things through a bit of diplomacy. Her past fears of the dreaded interaction between nations had left her, making her all the better of a ruler for it. She entered the old palace of Farbensa with two guards by her side - One of which being the famed Garelis, victor of the duels at the Grand Tournament. The Queen wore a regal green dress, adorned with her traditional jewelry and such that came with representing her division. Emerald in particular made for the most common of gems on her outfit. The almost human queen approached her host patiently, each step being taken carefully; as if afraid to make a mark in the beautiful flooring of the palace.. She quite liked the style of the architecture here.. The thought of doing something of a similar style in her homeland crossed her mind, but that was for another time.

A wicked scar rested diagonal upon her face, contrasting the otherwise serene look of the southern ruler. It was almost glaringly noticeable, and she made no attempt to hide it with a veil or the like. ..Even if she wanted to, it would be impossible. "Well met, dearest allies and newly crowned king of Nand. It flatters my people to be invited to this event, and as such I thank you sincerely for it." Her head bows to the stoic king, his almost intimidating presence overshadowing the rather quiet Queen. She had not seen much of him, but she assumed that they were both people of few and careful words.. But for entirely different reasons. Lilia's silence came from her lack of confidence, while Ardashir had something more akin to a calculating, judgmental stare. With the recent assault she had hardened herself, but she was by all means still the same woman.

The familiar green aspis hung on the Queen's shoulder, tongue flicking as it observed the area.. It was said that Lilia had named it after all these years.. Verraiel. ..And the name of the second was called Gloria, which she had only recently acquired. Speaking of which, the small yellow reptile (Gloria) followed her several paces behind, keeping it's gaze held straight and advancing loyally to Lilia's side where it stopped and stood to her left. After Avlen had died, the topaz colored aspis had been entrusted into her care.. And she took the role as sincerely as she could.

Baram had seen the arrival of the Crystal Union delegates from his half hidden vantage point and arose and made to greet them. His father's recent travels within their lands and their nearly finished embassy spoke of warm relations between the two powers that Baram well hoped to maintain.

"Greetings Queen Eleanor, Queen Lilia. The Provinces are honored to play host to such lovely and loyal allies." He bowed to them, his gilded laurel crown glinting in the bright sunlight.

"Queen Eleanor, please tell me how my father fares in your lands." He had not heard from his father Derris for a few months, and though was not overly concerned, he bid the Queens to regale him of tales of his father.

[woolli264]

Baram and the CU

Baram had seen the arrival of the Crystal Union delegates from his half hidden vantage point and arose and made to greet them. His father's recent travels within their lands and their nearly finished embassy spoke of warm relations between the two powers that Baram well hoped to maintain.

"Greetings Queen Eleanor, Queen Lilia. The Provinces are honored to play host to such lovely and loyal allies." He bowed to them, his gilded laurel crown glinting in the bright sunlight.

"Queen Eleanor, please tell me how my father fares in your lands." He had not heard from his father Derris for a few months, and though was not overly concerned, he bid the Queens to regale him of tales of his father.

"Ah yes! Your father has been an excellent guest, though the big folk do eat quite a bit. One time he ate an entire chicken! He has been learning Sasu from master Leon here, a great honor I assure you."
One of the Furfolk in the group stepped forwards and bowed, "A great honor for me to teach him."
Queen Eleanor continued, "One would expect him to have a degree of difficulty considering the fighting style is designed for creatures half his size and with tails but he has caught on marvelously."
"Yes indeed, we say that I am teaching him but he is also teaching me. Working with him has allowed me to experiment with countless variations on moves to make the art more suited to the big folk. As small creatures we learn an art of balance, agility and precision but Derris is able to forgo some of those traits in favor of durability and strength that a Furfolk could not dream of."

[Reggiejam]

Nyle and the Fox

Nyle remained leaning against the stone archway with his hands crossed, his face holding an expression of ill disguised amusement beneath a facade of nonchalance as he had yet deigned to look upon the imp.

"Of course I am here, My place is with my Protos and his place is here with his allies." He turned towards the small Aeldir as he was greeting him with his arms open. Nyle looked incredulously at the Fox for a moment before bursting into laughter.

"Miss me did you?" Nyle reached out to take Duke Fox's small arm in his hand and eschewed the hug, greeting him in the manner of Ambrosan men.

"The real question is what you are doing here." Nyle had also been wondering what any of them were doing here, though he wasn't about to let the old Fox in on that.


The Duke pursed his lips and pouted as Nyle denied him his hug and clasped his forearm.

"Is it such a surprise that I was actually invited to an event?" the Spring Aeldir feigned indignation at the question though in truth he and the young lad had made quite the habit of crashing various parties small and large during their travels.

As the two released their arm grasp the Duke shook his arm and looked up at the Avonlea Ambrosan, "Didn't I always tell you its proper to adopt the greeting presented to you? It's not very culturally open to make everything so... Ambrosan."

He rolled his eyes at the word, saying it as though it were a curse.

"So I see my lessons in party attendance and nonchalance are paying off well in your role as Polemarchos. I really ought to have charged you for the leg up. Say, do you know of any down on his luck Protos looking for a charming, four foot high, immortal Polemarchos? Surely you would vouch for me, right Prince?"

[Zayuz]

Baram and the CU


Baram had seen the arrival of the Crystal Union delegates from his half hidden vantage point and arose and made to greet them. His father's recent travels within their lands and their nearly finished embassy spoke of warm relations between the two powers that Baram well hoped to maintain.

"Greetings Queen Eleanor, Queen Lilia. The Provinces are honored to play host to such lovely and loyal allies." He bowed to them, his gilded laurel crown glinting in the bright sunlight.

"Queen Eleanor, please tell me how my father fares in your lands." He had not heard from his father Derris for a few months, and though was not overly concerned, he bid the Queens to regale him of tales of his father.


"Ah yes! Your father has been an excellent guest, though the big folk do eat quite a bit. One time he ate an entire chicken! He has been learning Sasu from master Leon here, a great honor I assure you."
One of the Furfolk in the group stepped forwards and bowed, "A great honor for me to teach him."
Queen Eleanor continued, "One would expect him to have a degree of difficulty considering the fighting style is designed for creatures half his size and with tails but he has caught on marvelously."
"Yes indeed, we say that I am teaching him but he is also teaching me. Working with him has allowed me to experiment with countless variations on moves to make the art more suited to the big folk. As small creatures we learn an art of balance, agility and precision but Derris is able to forgo some of those traits in favor of durability and strength that a Furfolk could not dream of."

Lilia quickly turned to meet the one who had addressed both her and her ally, bowing her head respectfully. "Lord Baram, a pleasure to meet you.. Your palace here has beauty unrivaled in any palace in all the west." She listens as Queen Elanor describes the training of who was apparently Lord Baram's father, learning the Sasu art of war. Tales of it had spread, for the first outsider to take up a sacred tradition was revolutionary - One outside the Union much more so as well. A simple nod in agreement summed up how much she knew of his current training, which proved to be very little indeed. It sounded to be going well though, which pleased her. Things running smoothly was always good. "It sounds quite good for the body, perhaps I should take it up." The lady smiles, quickly interrupted by the stoic guard behind her. "Nonsense milady, if you could defend yourself then what use would I be?" She chuckled at Garelis' words, dismissing them nonchalantly.

[Aedilred]

Ferran's hand moved swiftly to his sword hilt, though he did not draw his blade. The mention of a woman and the apparent effect speaking of her had upon the Nand King had immediately conjured thoughts of the murderess Francesca, but as Ardashir continued the Ancerin prince uncertainty drowned out his initial suspicions and he relaxed his hand. Surely they didn't mean that she would speak against oppression? Still, he had to ask.
"You cannot mean that [/i]she[/i] will be here? I do not for one second believe that you would harbour one so vile, but I must be certain."
The king and his grandfather exchanged a quick glance, both perplexed by Ferran's sudden reaction. Either the Aeldir had done a better job at condemning her name within Anceris than they would have believed possible, or Ferran must be talking about someone else.

After a moment, Kusal replied, his tone still slightly uncertain, "We are aware of only one Ancerin lady living within the territories joined in the League, and I must confess I am surprised to hear her so described, or that the Grand Prince would send a lady he held in such low regard abroad for diplomatic purposes. She is not resident within Nand itself, but may attend the court all the same."


Helaine smiled shyly at the dour man and Kusal in turn, her eyes going to her mother questioningly as Ardashir spoke of queendom. Her eyes returned to the King and she placed her hand upon the arm that held her shoulder, noticing how very alike their skin colour was,

"I am pleased to meet you as well. I always wanted siblings." Though this serious King was not quite how she pictured those long wished for playmates, still she figured there was value in family, long estranged though they were.

Fenille smiled sadly at her daughter's wistful words,

"She is my daughter, Your Grace. Taking good care of her was the least I could do." Her voice faltered as she wished to apologise for leading his father astray, perhaps to the point of suicide but the words stilled on her tongue as the weight of her guilt silenced her and her head drooped as she was overcome with emotion.
"Of course." He straightened and attempted to meet Fenille's gaze once more. "Nevertheless I am grateful."

"We thought it would be best if Helaine were placed under the same charge as my other grandson, Prince Isfandir, who shares her Avonlean heritage and is of the same age. I believe it would do them good to be placed together, under the circumstances, but if you have any objections, we would be happy to revise our plans."

[PepperP.]

"Ah yes! Your father has been an excellent guest, though the big folk do eat quite a bit. One time he ate an entire chicken! He has been learning Sasu from master Leon here, a great honor I assure you."
One of the Furfolk in the group stepped forwards and bowed, "A great honor for me to teach him."
Queen Eleanor continued, "One would expect him to have a degree of difficulty considering the fighting style is designed for creatures half his size and with tails but he has caught on marvelously."
"Yes indeed, we say that I am teaching him but he is also teaching me. Working with him has allowed me to experiment with countless variations on moves to make the art more suited to the big folk. As small creatures we learn an art of balance, agility and precision but Derris is able to forgo some of those traits in favor of durability and strength that a Furfolk could not dream of."


Lilia quickly turned to meet the one who had addressed both her and her ally, bowing her head respectfully. "Lord Baram, a pleasure to meet you.. Your palace here has beauty unrivaled in any palace in all the west." She listens as Queen Elanor describes the training of who was apparently Lord Baram's father, learning the Sasu art of war. Tales of it had spread, for the first outsider to take up a sacred tradition was revolutionary - One outside the Union much more so as well. A simple nod in agreement summed up how much she knew of his current training, which proved to be very little indeed. It sounded to be going well though, which pleased her. Things running smoothly was always good. "It sounds quite good for the body, perhaps I should take it up." The lady smiles, quickly interrupted by the stoic guard behind her. "Nonsense milady, if you could defend yourself then what use would I be?" She chuckled at Garelis' words, dismissing them nonchalantly.

"It is quite beautiful, I only wish I could take credit for it. This is an ancestral Nand holding. The lands of Ambrose lie well to the North, though of course it's all under the banner of the Provinces now." Baram smiled easily at Lilia at the compliment.

"It gladdens me to hear of my father's exploits, and even more so to hear of his successes. Master Leon please relay my regards to my father, if you would be so kind." He bid the furry master respectfully and grinned at Lilia's suggestion that she take up the art.

"Doubtless there are women warriors fierce as any men, Your Grace though I quite agree with your good guard there." He joined in with her chuckling before speaking of more serious matters,

"I am glad to have you both in attendance, I wish to speak with you on the matter of appointing a suitable ambassador for the Embassy we are in the midst of constructing in Rheinen. And also what is considered proper deportment for an emissary within your lands." He had hoped to get some details regarding faux pas specific to the CU so that he might better choose a suitable ambassador.


The Duke pursed his lips and pouted as Nyle denied him his hug and clasped his forearm.

"Is it such a surprise that I was actually invited to an event?" the Spring Aeldir feigned indignation at the question though in truth he and the young lad had made quite the habit of crashing various parties small and large during their travels.

As the two released their arm grasp the Duke shook his arm and looked up at the Avonlea Ambrosan, "Didn't I always tell you its proper to adopt the greeting presented to you? It's not very culturally open to make everything so... Ambrosan."

He rolled his eyes at the word, saying it as though it were a curse.

"So I see my lessons in party attendance and nonchalance are paying off well in your role as Polemarchos. I really ought to have charged you for the leg up. Say, do you know of any down on his luck Protos looking for a charming, four foot high, immortal Polemarchos? Surely you would vouch for me, right Prince?"

Nyle snorted at the Duke's words,

"Seem as though you belong and you will." Nyle spoke the Duke's mantra wryly, showing he remembered his lessons in gatecrashing quite well.

"I seem Ambrosan because I am Ambrosan." He spoke easily, belying the stubbornness behind the words. He had grown up within the walls at Castle Eroton and his grandfather's Speedway at Koikos, the only memories he had of Avonlea were of the bonfires the night before his mother disappeared. He resumed his stance against the stone archway and crossed his arms, regarding Duke Fox with an amused expression,

"I believe the Protos and his wife are in the need of a new nanny, I'd be happy to put in a good word." He could not keep the grin from his face as he taunted the little Duke.

[Mary_Sue]

"Of course." He straightened and attempted to meet Fenille's gaze once more. "Nevertheless I am grateful."

"We thought it would be best if Helaine were placed under the same charge as my other grandson, Prince Isfandir, who shares her Avonlean heritage and is of the same age. I believe it would do them good to be placed together, under the circumstances, but if you have any objections, we would be happy to revise our plans."

Fenille met the King's eyes and nodded, slightly comforted that he did not seem to hold her as accountable for his father's death as she held herself. She looked up as her child's grandfather spoke, a look of alarm upon her woeful features.

"Pardon me, My Lord. "Placed together?" I had hoped to be allowed to remain with my daughter within your realm." She looked to her Queen for help, though Aris looked to Kusal for clarification before she stepped in to mediate.

[Aedilred]

The Play

On the second day, a play was performed, a version of a story which had recently become popular across much of the kingdom, including, somewhat surprisingly, with the clergy. Some suggest this is due to its moral tone and criticism of those who lack humility and other virtues. Others suggest that the clergy are no less easily amused than anyone else.



Dramatis Personae
LORD ZIMI – An arrogant and self-important lord.
LOMI - A slave of Lord Zimi's.
SAMASER – Lord Zimi's bodyguard
ELNOVA – A noblewoman
SODALA – A traveller
MASTER ZURSAN – An innkeeper.
HANNAH – The innkeeper's daughter.

<Scene 1 - opening narration>

Scene 2

The atrium of a country inn. Enter ZIMI, LOMI and SAMASER.

ZIMI: What wretched luck is this, that we find ourselves stranded in such dismal place! Samaser, go and locate our host. If he cannot understand our tongue, drag him back here by force.

Exit SAMASER

ZIMI: Never in my days have I seen such a place. I dread to think what service shall be provided if this is the condition of the building in which they live.

LOMI: I am sure they will be suitably impressed by your title, lord.

ZIMI: As is only my right. I cannot imagine that any of such station have bedded here before. Perhaps even to call it bedding would be too generous, for I fear we shall be consigned to pallets of straw.

LOMI: I am sure if necessary the innkeep will surrender his own bed, lord, and I shall sleep on a pallet as always.

ZIMI: If he does not, I shall have Samaser beat him until he does so.

LOMI: Behold, lord, there is a man here now.

Enter SODALA

ZIMI: And not before time! You there! We require rooms for the night and refreshment. Our baggage is without, to be taken to our quarters at once.

SODALA: I fear you have mistaken me. I am not the innkeep.

ZIMI: Then who are you and what is your purpose here? Answer, man.

SODALA: I am a traveller in these parts and find myself quartered here as I assume do you.

ZIMI: To address a lord in such terms!

LOMI: This is Lord Zimi of the White Tower.

SODALA: Many apologies, my lord, for my familiarity!

ZIMI: Apologies are worthless, if not weighted with reason and recompense.

SODALA: You are, of course, correct, your overbearance. It is merely that I did not expect to see one such as yourself in an establishment such as this, and so mistook you for one of common station with my own self.

ZIMI: You are forgiven, though some more tangible show of remorse would be better received.

SODALA: Your words indeed give me pause. However one such as myself cannot presume to know what would suffice to satiate the temper of one so high and mighty as yourself. Rather, I implore you, state that which you desire, and if it be within the power of your humble servant, I shall comply.

ZIMI: I think it appropriate if you purchase the evening refreshment for myself and my servants.

SODALA: An excellent notion, your parsimoniousness. I shall inform the innkeep when next I see him.

Enter HANNAH

SODALA: Good afternoon.

HANNAH: And to you, my lord. Who is this your companion?

ZIMI: My lord!

LOMI: This is Lord Zimi.

SODALA: A gentleman whose greatness and importance is matched only by the esteem in which I hold him.

ZIMI: A matter of insignificance if this girl cannot distinguish in address between a lord and a common vagabond.

HANNAH: I must confess I do not fully understand.

SODALA: Lord Zimi is quite correct. It is indeed inappropriate to address commonfolk as you would a lord.

ZIMI: A matter known to all, I should have thought. Is the girl simple?

SODALA: Not so, I am certain, your discourteousness. Rather I suspect the intricacies of our situation are lost on her. Hannah, you must no longer address me as “my lord”, for it will offend Lord Zimi.

HANNAH: Very well, my – what shall I call you in absence of title?

SODALA: You may address me as Sodala if you wish.

HANNAH: And what of Lady Elnova?

ZIMI: Who is this now? Another country trollop of some airs and graces?

SODALA: I am relieved to say not, your superciliousness. She is a true lady, resident within these walls as are we all, a lady of great wit and beauty.

ZIMI: A lady, here! I would see her, that I might have one worthy of my conversation.

SODALA: And I am sure it shall be so, your tedium. Hananh, pray go and alert Lady Elnova that Lord Zimi wishes to see her.

Exit HANNAH.

ZIMI (aside): It is rare to find a lady with both beauty and wit. The beauties of my native city are fools to a one, unable to see the merit in coupling themselves to one such as me. Should she prove all that this rough provincial has promised, I shall make it my intent to win over this Lady Elnova and make her my wife.

ZIMI: Lomi, when this lazy innkeep finally returns, inform him that we shall be staying until further notice.

LOMI: I am sure the weather is not so bad we shall be detained more than one day, my lord.

ZIMI: The weather is no longer my concern. (sotto voce) I have decided I shall attempt to woo this Lady Elnova and may need time to accomplish this.

LOMI: Do you think that a wise plan, my lord? For it has been many months since last you attempted to woo a lady and even on that occasion did not meet with success.

ZIMI: Fear not, for I have another plan. I shall practise my wiles on this innkeep's girl to steady my nerves before I embark upon the more challenging course.

Enter SAMASER and MASTER ZURSAN.

SAMASER: I return with the innkeeper, my lord.

ZURSAN: Welcome to my inn, my lord. I see you have already met one of our other guests -

SODALA: – Sodala.

ZURSAN: As you say.

ZIMI: Tell me, innkeep, what is your fare for tonight? Sodala has promised to stand me dinner in recompense for liberties taken.

ZURSAN: Stew, my lord.

ZIMI: Stew?

SODALA: An excellent stew it is, though I am sure not of the standards to which you are used, your gracelessness. A fine and fattening fare.

ZIMI: Fattening?

SODALA: Verily. In retrospect I cannot forgive myself for my error in greeting you, for now I have had time to dwell on the subject I should have identified you at once by your girth. A noble belly worthy of a noble lord.

ZIMI: Is that so?

SODALA: Oh, certainly, your rotundship. Tales of the mighty paunch of Lord Zimi are told far and wide, though I had never dared to dream of laying eyes upon it in person. I am sure if nothing else the stew of good Zursan will assist your obesity in the endeavour of straining yet further at the buttons of your coat.

ZIMI: That being so, I shall repair to my room and change to a more accommodating garment.

Exeunt




Fenille met the King's eyes and nodded, slightly comforted that he did not seem to hold her as accountable for his father's death as she held herself. She looked up as her child's grandfather spoke, a look of alarm upon her woeful features.

"Pardon me, My Lord. "Placed together?" I had hoped to be allowed to remain with my daughter within your realm." She looked to her Queen for help, though Aris looked to Kusal for clarification before she stepped in to mediate.
"Of course you are welcome to remain with her," Kusal said. "I meant rather that they be raised in the same household, with the same governesses, tutors, steward and so forth. A household in which you too would be accommodated should you so desire."

[HalfTangible]

And indeed, almost at Ardashir's word, a trio of South Sea Company Secretaries shuffled into the Palatial Hall accompanied by a young man and a younger lady, laughing and conversing all the while. The three were all middle-aged Kroznat men, dressed in the typical uniform worn by high-ranking company secretaries: A dark robe and an orange headwrap. The young man accompanying them himself looked Kroznat to the naked eye, though upon closer inspection his blue eyes marked him as having some outside ancestry, and not Wormwood Native blood as many Kroznat do. He wore no headwear, unless one would count the tight black braid of his hair as one, but covered himself with a traditional Kroznat robe in a deep shade of green. The woman with him was of apparent Luskan ancestry, with markings and tattoos marking her as one of the Crab Clan for those well-versed in such things. Her smile was bright and her oddly silvery hair, laden with ribbons, fell to caress the backs of her knees, or would have if she were not also wearing a robe with a much brighter green tint.

The South Sea Company was not technically a political entity as such, but at the same time it was something of an open secret that the Company was a major mover and shaker in the Allied Provinces, with its directors wielding power comparable to the Crown of Nand itself. As such, those acquainted with politics might recognize the young fellow as Ichigo Al-Daremo. The name meant "son-of-none", though his mother was well-known; nevertheless, his father had abandoned him without so much as a name, and as a man he was entitled to his father's name, and not his mother's. While the South Sea Company was not a strictly hereditary organization, it was clear that he was being groomed to act as its Chairman someday: He was the closest thing available to an heir for that 'throne'.

Those acquainted with genealogy might even recall that Ichigo married his Firstwife in a quiet ceremony just a few months prior; no doubt the woman with him was the subject of his attachment. Though not precisely a secret, it certainly lacked the pomp and advertisement of a Royal Wedding, and would have been easily missed by those without a finger on the pulse of League affairs.And this was why Lady Navus' recent withdrawal from diplomacy - her ****ing job - to do whatever she was doing in Valkyrie was infuriating.

The South Sea Company was an enigma to Primus. While they had regular friendly interactions with Ambrose and occasionally butted heads with Nand, the Company kept itself at a distance (when its presence was even noticed). In fact, Illydae wasn't sure she had ever personally dealt even with their lowest merchants. She had no feel for their culture or their mannerisms, which would have been fine if she weren't the one who needed to do diplomacy.

What was she even supposed to say? All she wanted to know was how they preferred to get their slaves.

[Kasanip]

Anna of Luska

A young woman entered the room dressed in the white robes and veil of a Priestess of the Pale Lady. Even with her face obscured, the sandals and embroidered patterns on the edge of her clothing hinted at her western heritage. She was not from the mountains and cold north.

Anna paused as she entered. The invitation had been a small surprise, and traveling the distance somehow had not been as uncomfortable as she had feared. The magnificent palace was a welcome end of the journey. However, everything perhaps only was beginning now.

Although she had never met any of the delegates, of such a variety of cultures and styles, however she could recognize the ones she was destined to meet.
Without pause, the Pale Lady only invites to act with courage in this situation. So, I will go forward to unflinchingly meet destiny!

She stepped deliberately through the crowd, a smile barely visible beneath the veil, as she approached the Nand delegation. With a proper curtsy without lifting her veil, she spoke softly.

"Fate has ordained our meeting at this time. I am grateful for the invitation."

[Elemental]

The king and his grandfather exchanged a quick glance, both perplexed by Ferran's sudden reaction. Either the Aeldir had done a better job at condemning her name within Anceris than they would have believed possible, or Ferran must be talking about someone else.

After a moment, Kusal replied, his tone still slightly uncertain, "We are aware of only one Ancerin lady living within the territories joined in the League, and I must confess I am surprised to hear her so described, or that the Grand Prince would send a lady he held in such low regard abroad for diplomatic purposes. She is not resident within Nand itself, but may attend the court all the same."

At the King's assurances, Ferran relaxed, relieved that the task of dealing with Francesca would not unceremoniously be placed upon his own shoulders. Despite his blunder there was a faint smile on his face as he replied to Ardashir.
"Please forgive me for my outburst, for a moment I thought you referred to the murderess Francesca. This is my first assignment in the field of diplomacy and I have made a fool of myself by allowing such things to darken my thoughts. Thank The Lady I am only third in line to the throne, though I rather expect to be reduced in the order of precedence in a few months."
Ferran nodded his head at the mention of the Ancerin lady living within the League.
"It would of course be a great pleasure to see Aunt Giovanna. I was but a small child when she departed to marry Baram Asker so in truth I do not remember her with much clarity and no doubt she has changed greatly. I fear I would not recognise her if she were in attendance. Is Lord Asker in attendance? I should introduce myself to my uncle."

[Aedilred]

At the King's assurances, Ferran relaxed, relieved that the task of dealing with Francesca would not unceremoniously be placed upon his own shoulders. Despite his blunder there was a faint smile on his face as he replied to Ardashir.
"Please forgive me for my outburst, for a moment I thought you referred to the murderess Francesca. This is my first assignment in the field of diplomacy and I have made a fool of myself by allowing such things to darken my thoughts. Thank The Lady I am only third in line to the throne, though I rather expect to be reduced in the order of precedence in a few months."
Ferran nodded his head at the mention of the Ancerin lady living within the League.
"It would of course be a great pleasure to see Aunt Giovanna. I was but a small child when she departed to marry Baram Asker so in truth I do not remember her with much clarity and no doubt she has changed greatly. I fear I would not recognise her if she were in attendance. Is Lord Asker in attendance? I should introduce myself to my uncle."
"Francesca?!" The king's expression soured. "I assure you, that woman would receive no welcome at my court. My mother was a heartless and embittered woman, who would have driven this kingdom to ruin had she reigned longer. I cannot bring myself to forgive her for her actions, nor did I mourn her death, but she was nevertheless my mother, and a dowager queen of Nand. Her slaughter at the hands of the Iron Gauntlet is a deed that will live in infamy, and if her murderess is found within the borders of the kingdom she will be crucified. "

He looked up. "On a happier note, it seems our guest of honour has arrived, and I can finally dispense with the mystery."

Anna of Luska

A young woman entered the room dressed in the white robes and veil of a Priestess of the Pale Lady. Even with her face obscured, the sandals and embroidered patterns on the edge of her clothing hinted at her western heritage. She was not from the mountains and cold north.

Anna paused as she entered. The invitation had been a small surprise, and traveling the distance somehow had not been as uncomfortable as she had feared. The magnificent palace was a welcome end of the journey. However, everything perhaps only was beginning now.

Although she had never met any of the delegates, of such a variety of cultures and styles, however she could recognize the ones she was destined to meet.
Without pause, the Pale Lady only invites to act with courage in this situation. So, I will go forward to unflinchingly meet destiny!

She stepped deliberately through the crowd, a smile barely visible beneath the veil, as she approached the Nand delegation. With a proper curtsy without lifting her veil, she spoke softly.

"Fate has ordained our meeting at this time. I am grateful for the invitation."

Ardashir bowed slightly. "And it is my pleasure to welcome you to my court."

Kusal gave a signal to the musicians, and the ouds and reed instruments that had been playing ceased abruptly, replaced by a trumpet fanfare. Ardashir turned to address the room at large.

"Welcome guests, it is my privilege to introduce our guests of honour for this summer court. First, my beloved sister Helaine of Avonlea, daughter of my late father, arriving in this kingdom for the first time. It is my hope that one day she and her descendants will succeed me on this throne." He gestured to the girl with the Avonlean delegation, and after a moment held up a hand to end any applause.

"Second, and - meaning no disrespect to my sister - the true reason I have invited each of you here, it is my honour to introduce the Lady Anna, successor of Chesuka and true heir to Luska." He indicated the veiled young woman standing beside him.

[Reggiejam]

"Seem as though you belong and you will." Nyle spoke the Duke's mantra wryly, showing he remembered his lessons in gatecrashing quite well.

"I seem Ambrosan because I am Ambrosan." He spoke easily, belying the stubbornness behind the words. He had grown up within the walls at Castle Eroton and his grandfather's Speedway at Koikos, the only memories he had of Avonlea were of the bonfires the night before his mother disappeared. He resumed his stance against the stone archway and crossed his arms, regarding Duke Fox with an amused expression,

"I believe the Protos and his wife are in the need of a new nanny, I'd be happy to put in a good word." He could not keep the grin from his face as he taunted the little Duke.

The Duke ignored his former protégé's taunt as he sought to address the Prince's earlier statement.

"Pah, Ambrosan? Truly my failings have come to the forefront in these lands of Nand. Prince of Avonlea, son of Ambrose, but you are a man who has seen more than millions of your 'fellow Ambrosans.' You have sailed the Sea of Coin, the Dawnsea, and seas minor and unnamed besides. You have sat in the court of Aeldir, walked through the battlefields of distant Pavos, and acted as ambassador to the mysterious elves within the forests of Uldrakka. If you were Ambrosan you should be their king. Avonlean the same. Do not define yourself by heritage young Nyle."

The Duke grew impassioned and for the first time in all their years together used the man's given name. Though he had so often needled the man with naming him Prince of Avonlea it seemed now his reasoning for doing so was laid bare.


Ardashir bowed slightly. "And it is my pleasure to welcome you to my court."

Kusal gave a signal to the musicians, and the ouds and reed instruments that had been playing ceased abruptly, replaced by a trumpet fanfare. Ardashir turned to address the room at large.

"Welcome guests, it is my privilege to introduce our guests of honour for this summer court. First, my beloved sister Helaine of Avonlea, daughter of my late father, arriving in this kingdom for the first time. It is my hope that one day she and her descendants will succeed me on this throne." He gestured to the girl with the Avonlean delegation, and after a moment held up a hand to end any applause.

"Second, and - meaning no disrespect to my sister - the true reason I have invited each of you here, it is my honour to introduce the Lady Anna, successor of Chesuka and true heir to Luska." He indicated the veiled young woman standing beside him.

The Duke turned as the King announced first his estranged sister and nearly named her heir upon the spot, surprised that a bastard should receive such treatment though perhaps plague had made the royal line less choosy in its successors. The second announced name however did catch the small Duke with some surprise and his mind raced searching for a proper reaction.

"Hail to the Lady Anna of Luska, leader of the Second Order of the Demesne!" the small Duke shouted.

[Elemental]

"Second, and - meaning no disrespect to my sister - the true reason I have invited each of you here, it is my honour to introduce the Lady Anna, successor of Chesuka and true heir to Luska." He indicated the veiled young woman standing beside him.

Ferran had politely stepped back at the mention of the guest of honour even as he was mentally kicking himself for making so terrible an impression upon the Nand King. Hearing just who the special mystery guest was banished all such thoughts from his mind for the time being. He stepped forward and lowered himself to one knee and bowed his head before the Luskan priestess.
"Priestess, it is an honour to meet the successor of the noble Chesuka. May your tenure be long and storied."

[Zayuz]

"It is quite beautiful, I only wish I could take credit for it. This is an ancestral Nand holding. The lands of Ambrose lie well to the North, though of course it's all under the banner of the Provinces now." Baram smiled easily at Lilia at the compliment.

"It gladdens me to hear of my father's exploits, and even more so to hear of his successes. Master Leon please relay my regards to my father, if you would be so kind." He bid the furry master respectfully and grinned at Lilia's suggestion that she take up the art.

"Doubtless there are women warriors fierce as any men, Your Grace though I quite agree with your good guard there." He joined in with her chuckling before speaking of more serious matters,

"I am glad to have you both in attendance, I wish to speak with you on the matter of appointing a suitable ambassador for the Embassy we are in the midst of constructing in Rheinen. And also what is considered proper deportment for an emissary within your lands." He had hoped to get some details regarding faux pas specific to the CU so that he might better choose a suitable ambassador.


"Hmmm.." Lilia looked up thoughtfully, attempting to distance herself from the norms that had so easily become part of her life. To one without such experience, what was there to say? "Well.. For starters the Crystal Union is somewhat of a confederation between three different peoples. There are those of the west, being of the Human and Amal Zaj races. There are the five tribes to the east, with much varied cultures and peoples to the point that I've surrendered my attempt to get to know each one, and the fur folk between, that keep a very predictable and constant culture from my understanding." She nodded to her fellow queen, continuing. "As the main delegate in the west, I find that some of our traditions are quite different from the rest of the world, and even our own Union. For starters, the concept of 'family' is very different, and might take a small rant to explain - Please, do excuse me if I fail to communicate this properly."

She took a breath, as if thinking of where to start. "In the west, people are allowed to love whoever they choose. There is no.. 'obligation' to stay with one person forever, as the people, with me included, would find that to defeat he purpose of love. Make no mistake, it does happen, but views pertaining to marriage and such don't actually exist in my culture.. But rather a more casual type of love, in which multiple partners can be had. If one has a child in their relationship, this child is delegated to a 'house' within the society. Every Zaj grows up in one of these 'houses,' and you are assigned one at birth, usually based on the color of your scales and resident occupancy. New houses are formed all the time, due to population numbers that steadily increase. A house is expected to work as a team, and to abandon your house is akin to.. Divorcing your spouse, I think. Generally frowned upon, and it makes it slightly more difficult to find another house to take you in. ..Naturally, this mostly only extends to Zaj culture, as most of the humans and such obey regular marriage laws. We find that since the Unification of the south that many of these lines have been blurring. ..I know that's not exactly what you meant, though I felt it would only be proper to explain prior to sending a delegate, lest he become confused upon reaching our capital, Xeroas."

"As for more relevant matters, prolonged eye contact is considered a challenge almost anywhere throughout the Union, but it is also rude not to make any eye contact at all unless you are speaking to someone who is superior to you, in which case it is viewed as humble. ..I also recommend not interrupting people when they speak, or questioning authorities. I think that also applies here though, so that wouldn't truly count."

She looks to Garelis, as if asking if he had anything to add. ..He did. "Carrying a weapon isn't usually something people do in our lands, as I've seen the types in Primus do. ..If you do need to be armed, concealing it would be wise. Lilia also neglected to mention that despite our romantic lives being freer, it reflects very poorly on one to start a relationship and never follow up on it. Commitment may not be required, but are still based on love rather than lust. Your delegate will likely be stationed in Lenthe, where the more popular practice of marriage applies anyways."


""Welcome guests, it is my privilege to introduce our guests of honour for this summer court. First, my beloved sister Helaine of Avonlea, daughter of my late father, arriving in this kingdom for the first time. It is my hope that one day she and her descendants will succeed me on this throne." He gestured to the girl with the Avonlean delegation, and after a moment held up a hand to end any applause.

Second, and - meaning no disrespect to my sister - the true reason I have invited each of you here, it is my honour to introduce the Lady Anna, successor of Chesuka and true heir to Luska." He indicated the veiled young woman standing beside him.

Lilia looked up from her place among the crowds, her eyes widening slightly at the surprise of such a reveal. Did the Aeldir have no delegate here that would oppose such a proposition? In truth, she had little idea of how things had ended in Luska; it was before her time to say the least. What she did know, was that Luska was currently under the control of the Rose Courts, and this sounded a lot like an attempt to replace them as the 'rightful ruler.'

At least, that was how she understood it. Perhaps the Aeldir fully acknowledged her authority, and decided instead to grant her independence under their reign. Like a vassal. ..But then would it not be them presenting her? Politely, she clapped; finding herself quite confused as to what to make of this.

This could either be nothing, or the start of a war of independence. It was hard to imagine anything in-between.

The Queen glanced to the Duke from the Autumn courts, giving him a look as if to ask 'Did you know about this?'


Avonlea and the Crystal Union

A few minutes before the reveal..

A draconic queen approaches Aris, the Queen of Avonlea and her company with her aspis alongside her and her guard just behind her. "Greetings from the Dynasty of Escaye, it has been too long since we have last spoken." She nods politely and straightens her back, as if fixing her appearance in an attempt to match her gracefulness from so many years ago.. And perhaps she would have, had it not been for the glaringly obvious scar across her face. "I had something of which I wished to ask.. Would this happen to be a good moment?" Lilia smiles hopefully.

[woolli264]

"Hmmm.." Lilia looked up thoughtfully, attempting to distance herself from the norms that had so easily become part of her life. To one without such experience, what was there to say? "Well.. For starters the Crystal Union is somewhat of a confederation between three different peoples. There are those of the west, being of the Human and Amal Zaj races. There are the five tribes to the east, with much varied cultures and peoples to the point that I've surrendered my attempt to get to know each one, and the fur folk between, that keep a very predictable and constant culture from my understanding." She nodded to her fellow queen, continuing. "As the main delegate in the west, I find that some of our traditions are quite different from the rest of the world, and even our own Union. For starters, the concept of 'family' is very different, and might take a small rant to explain - Please, do excuse me if I fail to communicate this properly."

She took a breath, as if thinking of where to start. "In the west, people are allowed to love whoever they choose. There is no.. 'obligation' to stay with one person forever, as the people, with me included, would find that to defeat he purpose of love. Make no mistake, it does happen, but views pertaining to marriage and such don't actually exist in my culture.. But rather a more casual type of love, in which multiple partners can be had. If one has a child in their relationship, this child is delegated to a 'house' within the society. Every Zaj grows up in one of these 'houses,' and you are assigned one at birth, usually based on the color of your scales and resident occupancy. New houses are formed all the time, due to population numbers that steadily increase. A house is expected to work as a team, and to abandon your house is akin to.. Divorcing your spouse, I think. Generally frowned upon, and it makes it slightly more difficult to find another house to take you in. ..Naturally, this mostly only extends to Zaj culture, as most of the humans and such obey regular marriage laws. We find that since the Unification of the south that many of these lines have been blurring. ..I know that's not exactly what you meant, though I felt it would only be proper to explain prior to sending a delegate, lest he become confused upon reaching our capital, Xeroas."

"As for more relevant matters, prolonged eye contact is considered a challenge almost anywhere throughout the Union, but it is also rude not to make any eye contact at all unless you are speaking to someone who is superior to you, in which case it is viewed as humble. ..I also recommend not interrupting people when they speak, or questioning authorities. I think that also applies here though, so that wouldn't truly count."

She looks to Garelis, as if asking if he had anything to add. ..He did. "Carrying a weapon isn't usually something people do in our lands, as I've seen the types in Primus do. ..If you do need to be armed, concealing it would be wise. Lilia also neglected to mention that despite our romantic lives being freer, it reflects very poorly on one to start a relationship and never follow up on it. Commitment may not be required, but are still based on love rather than lust. Your delegate will likely be stationed in Lenthe, where the more popular practice of marriage applies anyways."



"Yes, yes I think she has about covered it. I will emphasize the fact that to meet the eyes of a Furfolk is a challenge unless they are a close friend or relative. It may be forgiven by some if they recognize your ambassador as a foreigner but many have not lived in any other way and will not hesitate to shame your representative in a number of ways, some more painful than others. I would also have you know that while carrying a weapon during times of peace is not illegal it can bring worry or fear, especially from a foreigner. I realize that this makes us seem like a harsh people but we can be quite kind as well. Your Ambassador should develop a mantra 'look at the feet, look at the feet' to keep themselves safe. Finally I will point out that many of our people, from the Furfolk that dot the lands to the Yafle in the north and in the east to the cave dwelling Acer to the their cousins the Grem to the stunted Banions of Xeria and the horned creatures of Heimat, are halflings, the tallest Acer is under four feet tall, and as such if you have any ambassadors of a shorter race it may help their interactions with a society that is used to being, literally, looked down on for their physical characteristics."

[BladeofObliviom]

And this was why Lady Navus' recent withdrawal from diplomacy - her ****ing job - to do whatever she was doing in Valkyrie was infuriating.

The South Sea Company was an enigma to Primus. While they had regular friendly interactions with Ambrose and occasionally butted heads with Nand, the Company kept itself at a distance (when its presence was even noticed). In fact, Illydae wasn't sure she had ever personally dealt even with their lowest merchants. She had no feel for their culture or their mannerisms, which would have been fine if she weren't the one who needed to do diplomacy.

What was she even supposed to say? All she wanted to know was how they preferred to get their slaves.

Illydae's attention had not gone totally unnoticed. Though the boy, his wife, and the three accompanying secretaries continued to chat and laugh aside the main event (all had stopped a moment to pay attention to Anna of Luska's introduction, and the Luskan woman even added an extra bow for good measure, but they soon returned to their carousing), a pair of eyes fell upon the Primal lady from the crowd.

A Wormwood native man in garb simultaneously fine and drab, exactly the kind of thing one would want to blend into a crowd like this, soon began making his way toward Illydae's location, though not so directly as to give away his intentions; still, an observant person could not miss that he was approaching. And there was a blade concealed underneath his robe; if Illydae knew anything at all about Kroznat culture, their diplomats rarely carried arms to formal events. This man was either a disguised guard or an assassin.

[HalfTangible]

Illydae's attention had not gone totally unnoticed. Though the boy, his wife, and the three accompanying secretaries continued to chat and laugh aside the main event (all had stopped a moment to pay attention to Anna of Luska's introduction, and the Luskan woman even added an extra bow for good measure, but they soon returned to their carousing), a pair of eyes fell upon the Primal lady from the crowd.

A Wormwood native man in garb simultaneously fine and drab, exactly the kind of thing one would want to blend into a crowd like this, soon began making his way toward Illydae's location, though not so directly as to give away his intentions; still, an observant person could not miss that he was approaching. And there was a blade concealed underneath his robe; if Illydae knew anything at all about Kroznat culture, their diplomats rarely carried arms to formal events. This man was either a disguised guard or an assassin.

The Wormwood native would have no trouble seeing the exact moment Illydae realized he was approaching. She fixed her gaze on him, and for a few brief moments had an expression of disbelief. Then, as he continued to approach, her face split into a manic grin, and she tapped a point on her crude moonsilver armor; one of its gaps between strap and metal, exactly where one would need to slip a knife to kill her.

It was a dare.

As he drew close, Illydae turned to face him directly, and her smile began to twitch. "Make my day." Her voice came out as half a growl, and half a giggle. She was ecstatic.

After all, she hadn't heard a man scream for mercy in almost a week.

[BladeofObliviom]

If Illydae was expecting a public attempt at her murder, she would have to be disappointed. The man stopped in his stride before reaching a blade's length away, snorting in slight disbelief as she dared him to attack. He fanned his wide-brimmed hat and motioned to one of the nearby arcades, still within sight of the main event but far enough away to be out of earshot of most. "Please.", he muttered calmly in response, not bothered by the woman's apparent eagerness for battle. He watched her just a moment with a faint smile and brilliant ruby eyes to make sure she received the message, then, without really turning his back, headed in that direction. Removing his hat to reveal an ear-length mop of dark hair, he leaned against one of the arcade walls, eyes scanning to ensure the Primal Lady followed.

[HalfTangible]

If Illydae was expecting a public attempt at her murder, she would have to be disappointed. The man stopped in his stride before reaching a blade's length away, snorting in slight disbelief as she dared him to attack. He fanned his wide-brimmed hat and motioned to one of the nearby arcades, still within sight of the main event but far enough away to be out of earshot of most. "Please.", he muttered calmly in response, not bothered by the woman's apparent eagerness for battle. He watched her just a moment with a faint smile and brilliant ruby eyes to make sure she received the message, then, without really turning his back, headed in that direction. Removing his hat to reveal an ear-length mop of dark hair, he leaned against one of the arcade walls, eyes scanning to ensure the Primal Lady followed.

...I'm sorry, 'Arcade'? Is there another meaning to this word I'm not aware of?

As he turned around, he would be met with the Primal in question, a little closer than what would be considered acceptable in polite company. She was grinning maniacally. "So. Business or suffering?"

Kroznat was unlikely to know much about Illydae due to her relative obscurity; if they had dug, they might have learned that she was extremely unpopular among the Primal due to sexual debauchery, unnecessary barbarism, and excessive desire for conflict.

The fact that that was how Primus described her was either telling or ironic.

[BladeofObliviom]

...I'm sorry, 'Arcade'? Is there another meaning to this word I'm not aware of?

As he turned around, he would be met with the Primal in question, a little closer than what would be considered acceptable in polite company. She was grinning maniacally. "So. Business or suffering?"

Kroznat was unlikely to know much about Illydae due to her relative obscurity; if they had dug, they might have learned that she was extremely unpopular among the Primal due to sexual debauchery, unnecessary barbarism, and excessive desire for conflict.

The fact that that was how Primus described her was either telling or ironic.

It's a word for a succession of arches.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arcade_(architecture)

The man smiled faintly and shook his head as the Primal continued framing the conversation in terms of violence. "Come now, if I'd wanted you dead there are a million better ways to do it than stabbing you in public. I was just...concerned.", he said liltingly. "Manic women brandishing clawed implements of war while staring appraisingly at very important people whom I'm supposed to be keeping alive, well..." He breathed softly, moving his face a little closer to Illydae's. "...Perhaps you can see why I might be concerned."

It didn't take long for him to lean back again. "So, do you have a name or should I keep calling you manic Primal claw lady?"

[HalfTangible]

It's a word for a succession of arches.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arcade_(architecture)

The man smiled faintly and shook his head as the Primal continued framing the conversation in terms of violence. "Come now, if I'd wanted you dead there are a million better ways to do it than stabbing you in public. I was just...concerned.", he said liltingly. "Manic women brandishing clawed implements of war while staring appraisingly at very important people whom I'm supposed to be keeping alive, well..." He breathed softly, moving his face a little closer to Illydae's. "...Perhaps you can see why I might be concerned."

It didn't take long for him to lean back again. "So, do you have a name or should I keep calling you manic Primal claw lady?"

"Sure, but if you were an idiot you might've done it anyway. And then I'd get to torture you in public." She shrugged, holding up the claws. "I wear these because Primal don't go without their weapons for long if they can help it, sweetie. If I wanted your charges dead, I wouldn't waste time 'brandishing' - they'd be dead, and I'd be laughing."

"I don't care if you call me 'manic claw lady' or whatever else you want. Personally I prefer men call me 'Mistress', but Illydae works too. Princess, if you must be formal."

[BladeofObliviom]

"Sure, but if you were an idiot you might've done it anyway. And then I'd get to torture you in public." She shrugged, holding up the claws. "I wear these because Primal don't go without their weapons for long if they can help it, sweetie. If I wanted your charges dead, I wouldn't waste time 'brandishing' - they'd be dead, and I'd be laughing."

"I don't care if you call me 'manic claw lady' or whatever else you want. Personally I prefer men call me 'Mistress', but Illydae works too. Princess, if you must be formal."

"If you were an idiot, perhaps you might rush in rather than appraising first. I don't know that you'd make it to them, but you'd certainly cause a ruckus." Despite himself, the fellow couldn't help but smile a bit. A lot of people found the countenance of Wormwood Natives to be frightening, between the red eyes and flesh nearly as pale as paper; apparently not Illydae though. "But rather than playing a silly game of 'nuh uh, can too', I'll take you at your word...Princess. It feels strange to say. Never taken a princess aside for questioning before. I am called Dmitri, if you care."

Dmitri looked away again, taking another look at Ichigo and his company. "For what it's worth, Master Ichigo is approachable enough. This is the kind of social event where it's alright to just approach a man and have a chat. The other Ghulam will be watching for a hostile move, as they would anyone else, but that's just good policy. He is...a prince, of a sort."

[Mary_Sue]

"Of course you are welcome to remain with her," Kusal said. "I meant rather that they be raised in the same household, with the same governesses, tutors, steward and so forth. A household in which you too would be accommodated should you so desire."

Fenille's visibly tense countenance relaxed as the first smile she had worn since arriving at the shores of Farbensa flitted across her face in her relief.

"Thank you, Your Grace. That is, Yes Your Grace, I do wish to stay with my daughter." Fenille's voice was grateful as Aris looked upon her maid and the indigo child thoughtfully, though she would not insult the Nand King with admonishments to keep her people safe, Linna's untimely death, and the Nand's brutal excision of her fellow Daen worshipers lay heavily upon her mind.

"King Ardashir, there is another small matter of which I would like to speak with you later, at a more discreet time, if it please you." Though her mind was much distracted, Aris made an effort to remember all she wished to accomplish whilst in the land of the Provinces.




Avonlea and the Crystal Union

A few minutes before the reveal..

A draconic queen approaches Aris, the Queen of Avonlea and her company with her aspis alongside her and her guard just behind her. "Greetings from the Dynasty of Escaye, it has been too long since we have last spoken." She nods politely and straightens her back, as if fixing her appearance in an attempt to match her gracefulness from so many years ago.. And perhaps she would have, had it not been for the glaringly obvious scar across her face. "I had something of which I wished to ask.. Would this happen to be a good moment?" Lilia smiles hopefully.

"Queen Lilia! What a delight!" Aris spoke gladly and embraced the Foreign Queen with a kiss to her cheek. She looked with kindness upon the scar that marred the woman's face and took comfort in the knowledge that she had not been alone in her hardships these past few years.

"Of course I have time to listen, let us move to a shaded nook and speak at our leisure." Aris's fair skin had already began to pink during the time she had stood speaking with King Ardashir.


The Duke turned as the King announced first his estranged sister and nearly named her heir upon the spot, surprised that a bastard should receive such treatment though perhaps plague had made the royal line less choosy in its successors. The second announced name however did catch the small Duke with some surprise and his mind raced searching for a proper reaction.

"Hail to the Lady Anna of Luska, leader of the Second Order of the Demesne!" the small Duke shouted.

Aris looked up in surprise at this endorsement from the little Duke, wondering what his Aeldir Lords might make of this development and what it meant for the Rose Demense, of which she and her Queendom was a modest part.

[PepperP.]

"Hmmm.." Lilia looked up thoughtfully, attempting to distance herself from the norms that had so easily become part of her life. To one without such experience, what was there to say? "Well.. For starters the Crystal Union is somewhat of a confederation between three different peoples. There are those of the west, being of the Human and Amal Zaj races. There are the five tribes to the east, with much varied cultures and peoples to the point that I've surrendered my attempt to get to know each one, and the fur folk between, that keep a very predictable and constant culture from my understanding." She nodded to her fellow queen, continuing. "As the main delegate in the west, I find that some of our traditions are quite different from the rest of the world, and even our own Union. For starters, the concept of 'family' is very different, and might take a small rant to explain - Please, do excuse me if I fail to communicate this properly."

She took a breath, as if thinking of where to start. "In the west, people are allowed to love whoever they choose. There is no.. 'obligation' to stay with one person forever, as the people, with me included, would find that to defeat he purpose of love. Make no mistake, it does happen, but views pertaining to marriage and such don't actually exist in my culture.. But rather a more casual type of love, in which multiple partners can be had. If one has a child in their relationship, this child is delegated to a 'house' within the society. Every Zaj grows up in one of these 'houses,' and you are assigned one at birth, usually based on the color of your scales and resident occupancy. New houses are formed all the time, due to population numbers that steadily increase. A house is expected to work as a team, and to abandon your house is akin to.. Divorcing your spouse, I think. Generally frowned upon, and it makes it slightly more difficult to find another house to take you in. ..Naturally, this mostly only extends to Zaj culture, as most of the humans and such obey regular marriage laws. We find that since the Unification of the south that many of these lines have been blurring. ..I know that's not exactly what you meant, though I felt it would only be proper to explain prior to sending a delegate, lest he become confused upon reaching our capital, Xeroas."

"As for more relevant matters, prolonged eye contact is considered a challenge almost anywhere throughout the Union, but it is also rude not to make any eye contact at all unless you are speaking to someone who is superior to you, in which case it is viewed as humble. ..I also recommend not interrupting people when they speak, or questioning authorities. I think that also applies here though, so that wouldn't truly count."

She looks to Garelis, as if asking if he had anything to add. ..He did. "Carrying a weapon isn't usually something people do in our lands, as I've seen the types in Primus do. ..If you do need to be armed, concealing it would be wise. Lilia also neglected to mention that despite our romantic lives being freer, it reflects very poorly on one to start a relationship and never follow up on it. Commitment may not be required, but are still based on love rather than lust. Your delegate will likely be stationed in Lenthe, where the more popular practice of marriage applies anyways."


"Yes, yes I think she has about covered it. I will emphasize the fact that to meet the eyes of a Furfolk is a challenge unless they are a close friend or relative. It may be forgiven by some if they recognize your ambassador as a foreigner but many have not lived in any other way and will not hesitate to shame your representative in a number of ways, some more painful than others. I would also have you know that while carrying a weapon during times of peace is not illegal it can bring worry or fear, especially from a foreigner. I realize that this makes us seem like a harsh people but we can be quite kind as well. Your Ambassador should develop a mantra 'look at the feet, look at the feet' to keep themselves safe. Finally I will point out that many of our people, from the Furfolk that dot the lands to the Yafle in the north and in the east to the cave dwelling Acer to the their cousins the Grem to the stunted Banions of Xeria and the horned creatures of Heimat, are halflings, the tallest Acer is under four feet tall, and as such if you have any ambassadors of a shorter race it may help their interactions with a society that is used to being, literally, looked down on for their physical characteristics."

Baram stroked his chin thoughtfully as the CU delegation plied him with information, considering carefully the correct choice of delegate.

"Reinein actually, that is the site of our current embassy in the works." He turned to Garelis as he spoke, correcting the guard's assumption.

"I'm afraid that most everybody we have suitable for the position would be terribly humanish." A wry grin crossed his lips as he addressed the Queens,

"I will consider the appointment carefully, you can be certain." Suddenly he realized that he had been making eye contact with their entire delegation this whole time.


The Duke ignored his former protégé's taunt as he sought to address the Prince's earlier statement.

"Pah, Ambrosan? Truly my failings have come to the forefront in these lands of Nand. Prince of Avonlea, son of Ambrose, but you are a man who has seen more than millions of your 'fellow Ambrosans.' You have sailed the Sea of Coin, the Dawnsea, and seas minor and unnamed besides. You have sat in the court of Aeldir, walked through the battlefields of distant Pavos, and acted as ambassador to the mysterious elves within the forests of Uldrakka. If you were Ambrosan you should be their king. Avonlean the same. Do not define yourself by heritage young Nyle."

The Duke grew impassioned and for the first time in all their years together used the man's given name. Though he had so often needled the man with naming him Prince of Avonlea it seemed now his reasoning for doing so was laid bare.

"Yes, and by those experiences I have been made worthy to rise as my Protos's second. Above those millions you would decry for their lack of similar fortune." His brow furrowed as he gazed upon his old companion,

"Fear not, Duke Fox. I often find that which we label ourselves is more for the benefit of others than ourselves, would you not agree?" Nyle cocked his head to the side as he studied the small but worn face of the enigmatic Duke.

"Duke Fox, Duke Sand. What is your real name, tell me." Nyle's voice was low but intense as he inadvertently held his breath in anticipation of the little imp's reply.

[Aedilred]

Fenille's visibly tense countenance relaxed as the first smile she had worn since arriving at the shores of Farbensa flitted across her face in her relief.

"Thank you, Your Grace. That is, Yes Your Grace, I do wish to stay with my daughter." Fenille's voice was grateful as Aris looked upon her maid and the indigo child thoughtfully, though she would not insult the Nand King with admonishments to keep her people safe, Linna's untimely death, and the Nand's brutal excision of her fellow Daen worshipers lay heavily upon her mind.

"King Ardashir, there is another small matter of which I would like to speak with you later, at a more discreet time, if it please you." Though her mind was much distracted, Aris made an effort to remember all she wished to accomplish whilst in the land of the Provinces.
"Of course," the king said, inclining his head slightly.

Later

The private meeting took place in a sun-drenched courtyard within the palace's eastern wing. Couches had been set out for the Avonleans, while on the Nand side only the king was present, along with a secretary standing to one side and a pair of bodyguards doing their best to blend into the architecture.

"Please sit, my lady," Ardashir said. "What was it you wished to discuss?"

OOC: If you want to take things to PM or in a private thread rather than here, let me know!

[Reggiejam]

"Yes, and by those experiences I have been made worthy to rise as my Protos's second. Above those millions you would decry for their lack of similar fortune." His brow furrowed as he gazed upon his old companion,

"Fear not, Duke Fox. I often find that which we label ourselves is more for the benefit of others than ourselves, would you not agree?" Nyle cocked his head to the side as he studied the small but worn face of the enigmatic Duke.

"Duke Fox, Duke Sand. What is your real name, tell me." Nyle's voice was low but intense as he inadvertently held his breath in anticipation of the little imp's reply.

"What is yours?" the Duke answered question with question and shrugged, "If you are asking of the first name I remember for myself ask me so though it shall shed little light. If you are asking what most people know me as you should need to ask all who know me. If you are asking which name defines me I fear I have no answer for you. Every name is a role in the game, an actor and character both in the grandest play and I have lived too long to continue pretending there is one among them that is 'true' or 'real.'"

[Mary_Sue]

"Of course," the king said, inclining his head slightly.

Later

The private meeting took place in a sun-drenched courtyard within the palace's eastern wing. Couches had been set out for the Avonleans, while on the Nand side only the king was present, along with a secretary standing to one side and a pair of bodyguards doing their best to blend into the architecture.

"Please sit, my lady," Ardashir said. "What was it you wished to discuss?"

OOC: If you want to take things to PM or in a private thread rather than here, let me know!

Aris chose a comfortable couch that was somewhat secluded from her retinue and sank gracefully onto it, grateful to have found one half in the shade. She knew well that Nanda revered the sunlight above all else, though her own fair skin had had quite enough of it for one day. She let the thin, silver straps of her gown slide off of her shoulders and sighed in relief as the irritant was removed from her pinkening skin. She crossed her legs at her ankles demurely though the breeze kicked up and rustled the thin, airy strips of her skirt to and fro exposing her legs up to her thigh. She found she could not be bothered to care in the face of the Nand King's attire, or relative lack of it as was the Nanda wont. She took in the stern, polite demeanor of the young King and wondered if she were about to make a fool of herself.

"Your Grace, it is not a great matter of state importance but rather a matter of personal importance of which I speak to you today." She shifted, forcing herself to not look upon the object of her concern lest the pink haired ambassador ascertain it was he of who they spoke.

"Kamran has been with us for many years, and serves us well. He is not derelict in his duties and I must lay no claim against him, but one. He is not happy, My Lord. He loves me." At this admission Aris blushed and stared at her hands which she had clasped in her lap.

"Be assured I speak this not from vanity, this fact is well known and by the subject's own admission. He has found not happiness, nor does he seek solace with another. Though there are many maids who might be willing to oblige. The offer of an arranged marriage has been made to him and he has refused. Perhaps because any Avonlean maid reminds him of me?" She did not mention the fact of her marriage, though to be true, her heart had been unavailable to him from the start.

"I thought I might query you on the possibility of arranging a Nand wife for him. I would not command him to marry, but I am not his King. It pains me to see him suffer so, and so alone." Her pale eyes rose once again to meet Ardashir's as the wind tousled strands of her hair from her neat updo.

[HalfTangible]

"If you were an idiot, perhaps you might rush in rather than appraising first. I don't know that you'd make it to them, but you'd certainly cause a ruckus." Despite himself, the fellow couldn't help but smile a bit. A lot of people found the countenance of Wormwood Natives to be frightening, between the red eyes and flesh nearly as pale as paper; apparently not Illydae though. "But rather than playing a silly game of 'nuh uh, can too', I'll take you at your word...Princess. It feels strange to say. Never taken a princess aside for questioning before. I am called Dmitri, if you care."

Dmitri looked away again, taking another look at Ichigo and his company. "For what it's worth, Master Ichigo is approachable enough. This is the kind of social event where it's alright to just approach a man and have a chat. The other Ghulam will be watching for a hostile move, as they would anyone else, but that's just good policy. He is...a prince, of a sort."
"Before I do that, tell me, do you want to visit me tonight for a quick f#@$? I got time." She asked as if requesting sex from complete strangers was perfectly normal.

---

Regardless of Dmitri's answer, Illydae would later approach Ichigo directly. "Illydae of Primus. I'm told you're the man to speak to regarding selling slaves."

[Aedilred]

Aris chose a comfortable couch that was somewhat secluded from her retinue and sank gracefully onto it, grateful to have found one half in the shade. She knew well that Nanda revered the sunlight above all else, though her own fair skin had had quite enough of it for one day. She let the thin, silver straps of her gown slide off of her shoulders and sighed in relief as the irritant was removed from her pinkening skin. She crossed her legs at her ankles demurely though the breeze kicked up and rustled the thin, airy strips of her skirt to and fro exposing her legs up to her thigh. She found she could not be bothered to care in the face of the Nand King's attire, or relative lack of it as was the Nanda wont. She took in the stern, polite demeanor of the young King and wondered if she were about to make a fool of herself.

"Your Grace, it is not a great matter of state importance but rather a matter of personal importance of which I speak to you today." She shifted, forcing herself to not look upon the object of her concern lest the pink haired ambassador ascertain it was he of who they spoke.

"Kamran has been with us for many years, and serves us well. He is not derelict in his duties and I must lay no claim against him, but one. He is not happy, My Lord. He loves me." At this admission Aris blushed and stared at her hands which she had clasped in her lap.

"Be assured I speak this not from vanity, this fact is well known and by the subject's own admission. He has found not happiness, nor does he seek solace with another. Though there are many maids who might be willing to oblige. The offer of an arranged marriage has been made to him and he has refused. Perhaps because any Avonlean maid reminds him of me?" She did not mention the fact of her marriage, though to be true, her heart had been unavailable to him from the start.

"I thought I might query you on the possibility of arranging a Nand wife for him. I would not command him to marry, but I am not his King. It pains me to see him suffer so, and so alone." Her pale eyes rose once again to meet Ardashir's as the wind tousled strands of her hair from her neat updo.

A cold amusement reached the king's eyes, though not his mouth, as he saw the Avonlean queen fail to keep her garments in what would anywhere else be considered proper order. It was probably for the best that it was him speaking to her and not Yazdagir, for his brother would have been unable to take his eyes off her legs by this point. It was a curious feature of foreign modesty - and he and Yaz had both agreed that this included the Nimtoriki influence on Nanda dress, for all that their grandfather might grumble - that the more was concealed the more sexualised the body became. While full public nudity in Nand was hardly known outside the priesthood, common clothing was so scanty that one quickly became used to it. But as soon as one started to cover the body up, one started to speculate about what was underneath it. And Yaz had ever been a fool for the ladies regardless.

He listened to her concerns, not without sympathy either for her or for Kamran, but there was an elephant in the room nevertheless. Events in Avonlea over the last few years had left decades of Nanda diplomatic policy in near-ruins, and he still struggled to see what they could have done differently. It had been he - with Kusal's eventual support - who had pushed for a hawkish response to the Prophetess Council, and to take action if necessary to restore Aris to the Avonlean throne by force. Yet the Aeldir had turned everything upside-down, and it seemed the ultimate conclusion of the whole affair had been merely to turn the League's only real friend in the east into a puppet of the Rose Demesne. Perhaps if they had intervened directly without reference to the Aeldir... but that would have run the risk of war. A war he was increasingly convinced was inevitable, but one which nevertheless it had been governmental policy at every level for three generations to avoid.

And how could he raise this with Aris, in any case? From what he understood, the Dullahan was not just her master, but her husband. She herself had suffered personally at the hands of the Prophetess Council. He couln't bring himself to complain about the fate of the Prophetesses for their actions, but it nevertheless bore uncomfortable parallels to the butchery of his cousins at the hands of his mother in attempting to remove any competition to her own rule, an act of unnecessary cruelty and brutality for which he would never forgive her. Or the appalling fate of Qount Martelo, in which the Aeldir had again taken a hand. The hounding to death of Serafim Rosenbaum, before his time but which he knew his grandfather still regretted his part in allowing. And of course the humiliation of Chesuka, forced to put her hand to a lie to save her people further suffering. The Aeldir had no compunctions about destroying legitimate foreign authorities - whatever their internal crimes - to further their own ends or satisfy their own unfathomable moral code. It was enough to make any crowned head uncomfortable. But were he to speak so to Aris, would she agree, would she see his concerns, or was she so suffused with gratitude - and perhaps even love, though he would not be surprised if there was some kind of magical compulsion involved, all the same - that she was already wholly lost to the Aeldir cause?

Amidst all that, the love life of one beranda was almost laughably insignificant. But then Kamran himself, whatever his station, was apparently a trusted associate of the queen, perhaps the last best link they had to the Avonlean throne, and that made him worthy of attention.

"I appreciate your concern," he said eventually. "I must admit that Kamran's sojourn in your court has been less successful than I had hoped, but I cannot accuse him of dereliction of duty either. It seems at least he has conducted himself with more propriety than his predecessor, although I wonder if there will ever come a day when our ambassador to Avonlea manages to execute his responsibilities without interference from affairs of the heart."

He sat back, tapping a finger slightly on the arm of his couch. "I would not oblige him to marry. There is much to be said of arranged marriage as an institution, and it brings many benefits, but it can also lead to disaster. After what became of mine own parents, I am reluctant to compel any other into such a state. But I may have a solution all the same. I shall suggest a match between him and my cousin Alalen. The caste difference is substantial, but that is of less concern overseas, and she is widowed and herself in need of companionship. Let us hope they can be a comfort to one another."

He did not mention his secondary hope, that Alalen might herself provide another means of intimate contact with the Avonlean crown, being of a similar age to Aris herself and - if not strictly of royal birth, at least of high enough station that she would potentially make a fit companion.

[PepperP.]

"What is yours?" the Duke answered question with question and shrugged, "If you are asking of the first name I remember for myself ask me so though it shall shed little light. If you are asking what most people know me as you should need to ask all who know me. If you are asking which name defines me I fear I have no answer for you. Every name is a role in the game, an actor and character both in the grandest play and I have lived too long to continue pretending there is one among them that is 'true' or 'real.'"

Nyle sighed as though disappointed or even bored by the little Duke's response,

"Or perhaps you've played the game for so long, you have forgotten who you really are." He shrugged,

"No matter. Doubtful I will live so long as to forget who I am. One of the benefits of mortality." He gave Duke Fox his father's crooked grin before resuming his long practiced look of nonchalance, though indeed the curiosity of the imp's very first name intrigued him still. Nyle's mask was broken however as the Nand King introduced his surprise mystery guest and Nyle could not help but raise an eyebrow.

"Now this should be interesting, eh Fox?" He was unsure if his friend heard him as he was currently busy hailing Anna as the rightful ruler of Luska. More and more interesting indeed.

[Mary_Sue]

A cold amusement reached the king's eyes, though not his mouth, as he saw the Avonlean queen fail to keep her garments in what would anywhere else be considered proper order. It was probably for the best that it was him speaking to her and not Yazdagir, for his brother would have been unable to take his eyes off her legs by this point. It was a curious feature of foreign modesty - and he and Yaz had both agreed that this included the Nimtoriki influence on Nanda dress, for all that their grandfather might grumble - that the more was concealed the more sexualised the body became. While full public nudity in Nand was hardly known outside the priesthood, common clothing was so scanty that one quickly became used to it. But as soon as one started to cover the body up, one started to speculate about what was underneath it. And Yaz had ever been a fool for the ladies regardless.

He listened to her concerns, not without sympathy either for her or for Kamran, but there was an elephant in the room nevertheless. Events in Avonlea over the last few years had left decades of Nanda diplomatic policy in near-ruins, and he still struggled to see what they could have done differently. It had been he - with Kusal's eventual support - who had pushed for a hawkish response to the Prophetess Council, and to take action if necessary to restore Aris to the Avonlean throne by force. Yet the Aeldir had turned everything upside-down, and it seemed the ultimate conclusion of the whole affair had been merely to turn the League's only real friend in the east into a puppet of the Rose Demesne. Perhaps if they had intervened directly without reference to the Aeldir... but that would have run the risk of war. A war he was increasingly convinced was inevitable, but one which nevertheless it had been governmental policy at every level for three generations to avoid.

And how could he raise this with Aris, in any case? From what he understood, the Dullahan was not just her master, but her husband. She herself had suffered personally at the hands of the Prophetess Council. He couln't bring himself to complain about the fate of the Prophetesses for their actions, but it nevertheless bore uncomfortable parallels to the butchery of his cousins at the hands of his mother in attempting to remove any competition to her own rule, an act of unnecessary cruelty and brutality for which he would never forgive her. Or the appalling fate of Qount Martelo, in which the Aeldir had again taken a hand. The hounding to death of Serafim Rosenbaum, before his time but which he knew his grandfather still regretted his part in allowing. And of course the humiliation of Chesuka, forced to put her hand to a lie to save her people further suffering. The Aeldir had no compunctions about destroying legitimate foreign authorities - whatever their internal crimes - to further their own ends or satisfy their own unfathomable moral code. It was enough to make any crowned head uncomfortable. But were he to speak so to Aris, would she agree, would she see his concerns, or was she so suffused with gratitude - and perhaps even love, though he would not be surprised if there was some kind of magical compulsion involved, all the same - that she was already wholly lost to the Aeldir cause?

Amidst all that, the love life of one beranda was almost laughably insignificant. But then Kamran himself, whatever his station, was apparently a trusted associate of the queen, perhaps the last best link they had to the Avonlean throne, and that made him worthy of attention.

"I appreciate your concern," he said eventually. "I must admit that Kamran's sojourn in your court has been less successful than I had hoped, but I cannot accuse him of dereliction of duty either. It seems at least he has conducted himself with more propriety than his predecessor, although I wonder if there will ever come a day when our ambassador to Avonlea manages to execute his responsibilities without interference from affairs of the heart."

He sat back, tapping a finger slightly on the arm of his couch. "I would not oblige him to marry. There is much to be said of arranged marriage as an institution, and it brings many benefits, but it can also lead to disaster. After what became of mine own parents, I am reluctant to compel any other into such a state. But I may have a solution all the same. I shall suggest a match between him and my cousin Alalen. The caste difference is substantial, but that is of less concern overseas, and she is widowed and herself in need of companionship. Let us hope they can be a comfort to one another."

He did not mention his secondary hope, that Alalen might herself provide another means of intimate contact with the Avonlean crown, being of a similar age to Aris herself and - if not strictly of royal birth, at least of high enough station that she would potentially make a fit companion.

"Nand ambassadors were certainly the first though not the only representatives to fall victim to Avonlea's many..." Her voice trailed off,

"Charms." A small smile graced her lips before a look of sadness replaced it.

"If it had only been anybody but I." She shrugged her shoulders who's colour was deepening towards red. She shook her head to dispel the gloom which lay upon her heavily, though somewhat cheered by the prospect of gaining her ambassador a new companion.

"Alalen would be most welcome, I am grateful for your concession King Ardashir." Aris thanked the Nand King, truly grateful as she well knew the matter she had brought before must seem trite and frivolous to the stoic man. In true she had not known how her meeting with him might go, there had scarcely been a Nand Monarch in power long enough for her to get to know one, even if just to gauge their mien. Her predecessor Thalia, though enjoyed the company of Reza, always spoke of Ambrose fondly. Aris had not ties to Ambrose, nor had she the chance to forge bonds with the Nand royalty who's lifespan was seemingly no longer than the fragile hummingbird. The South Sea Company was an utter mystery. She sighed unconsciously, drained to the core and wondered where she might ever find the strength to get her people through these trying times.

[Zayuz]

"queen lilia! What a delight!" aris spoke gladly and embraced the foreign queen with a kiss to her cheek. She looked with kindness upon the scar that marred the woman's face and took comfort in the knowledge that she had not been alone in her hardships these past few years.

"of course i have time to listen, let us move to a shaded nook and speak at our leisure." aris's fair skin had already began to pink during the time she had stood speaking with king ardashir.

The two made their way to the side of the court to a more private area, where they were away from the main commotion of the event. It brought a smile to hear that Aris had remembered her as well as she did. Only a moment later, Lilia found herself taken by surprise at what she assumed was a northern custom of kissing her cheek as a greeting. She had no idea what it meant, though she assumed it expressed some kind of fondness.. Nonetheless, the Queen returned the embrace.. As well as taking a bold risk in also attempting to guess what fashion to return the kissing thing.. She decided the most meaningful place was on the lips, if they were going for faces. ..After all, she didn't want to disappoint the Queen of Avonlea through her lack of northern culture. Lilia's lips brushed against Aris's, but only for a moment.. She realized very quickly that she had completely missed the mark.

Her face flushed red, glancing away in embarrassment as her guard raised his eyebrows in surprise. Her heart raced, and she raised her hands in front of her chest as an embarrassed defense against her mistake. "I-I'm so sorry..! I've never.." Lilia stammers, looking up to meet Aris's gaze and instantly regretting it. "P-Please forgive me, I was unaware of the greeting and I.." She sighs, brushing her hair to the side and silently praying that forgiveness would be quickly granted.

It seemed discussion of curing the plague would have to wait just a little bit longer.


Baram stroked his chin thoughtfully as the cu delegation plied him with information, considering carefully the correct choice of delegate.

"reinein actually, that is the site of our current embassy in the works." he turned to garelis as he spoke, correcting the guard's assumption.

"i'm afraid that most everybody we have suitable for the position would be terribly humanish." a wry grin crossed his lips as he addressed the queens,

"i will consider the appointment carefully, you can be certain." suddenly he realized that he had been making eye contact with their entire delegation this whole time.


"yes, yes i think she has about covered it. I will emphasize the fact that to meet the eyes of a furfolk is a challenge unless they are a close friend or relative. It may be forgiven by some if they recognize your ambassador as a foreigner but many have not lived in any other way and will not hesitate to shame your representative in a number of ways, some more painful than others. I would also have you know that while carrying a weapon during times of peace is not illegal it can bring worry or fear, especially from a foreigner. I realize that this makes us seem like a harsh people but we can be quite kind as well. Your ambassador should develop a mantra 'look at the feet, look at the feet' to keep themselves safe. Finally i will point out that many of our people, from the furfolk that dot the lands to the yafle in the north and in the east to the cave dwelling acer to the their cousins the grem to the stunted banions of xeria and the horned creatures of heimat, are halflings, the tallest acer is under four feet tall, and as such if you have any ambassadors of a shorter race it may help their interactions with a society that is used to being, literally, looked down on for their physical characteristics."

"Ah, of course. Apologies, Lord Baram. If you would forgive my blunder, it would be most appreciated.." The elderly knight knelt in front of him, his head bowed down. His curved horns were displayed neatly upon his head, the base masked in a small bush of greying silver hairs.. Which was somewhat hard to identify, only that the strands were loosing the traditional metallic shine that the rest of the Zaj seemed to possess.

Lilia looked down at her royal guard, sighing internally. He need not such a grand display of apology, but it seemed that thus was his style, as it ever was. Queen Elanor had cleaned up the details she missed quite well, leaving her content with the analysis. "I wouldn't loose any sleep over it - I've the utmost faith that you will select an ambassador who is more than capable."


I noticed that Kasanip was featured as one of the people at the event. Does this mean that she will be returning? Do we have a war of liberation on the way? I find myself at somewhat of a loss as to what to make of the grand reveal.

[Reggiejam]

Nyle sighed as though disappointed or even bored by the little Duke's response,

"Or perhaps you've played the game for so long, you have forgotten who you really are." He shrugged,

"No matter. Doubtful I will live so long as to forget who I am. One of the benefits of mortality." He gave Duke Fox his father's crooked grin before resuming his long practiced look of nonchalance, though indeed the curiosity of the imp's very first name intrigued him still. Nyle's mask was broken however as the Nand King introduced his surprise mystery guest and Nyle could not help but raise an eyebrow.

"Now this should be interesting, eh Fox?" He was unsure if his friend heard him as he was currently busy hailing Anna as the rightful ruler of Luska. More and more interesting indeed.

"A pity indeed you won't live long enough to realize there is no such thing," the Duke said with a somber smile.

The Duke turned to Nyle and shrugged, "I should hardly think so. If Lady Anna here is truly daughter and heir of Chesuka she is to be welcomed as leader of Luska. Chesuka took a vow of fealty to the Rose Courts before she abandoned her homeland and her people for the excitement of travel. I see no reason her line should be exempted of oath or rejected by the Courts. Should she wish to take up her mother's role as leader of Luska and member of the Demesne she shall be welcomed."

[PepperP.]

"Ah, of course. Apologies, Lord Baram. If you would forgive my blunder, it would be most appreciated.." The elderly knight knelt in front of him, his head bowed down. His curved horns were displayed neatly upon his head, the base masked in a small bush of greying silver hairs.. Which was somewhat hard to identify, only that the strands were loosing the traditional metallic shine that the rest of the Zaj seemed to possess.

Lilia looked down at her royal guard, sighing internally. He need not such a grand display of apology, but it seemed that thus was his style, as it ever was. Queen Elanor had cleaned up the details she missed quite well, leaving her content with the analysis. "I wouldn't loose any sleep over it - I've the utmost faith that you will select an ambassador who is more than capable."


Baram held his face steady as he tried to take the gentleman's apology as seriously as he did,

"All is forgiven, Good sir. Please rise." He touched the man briefly on his stooped shoulder to show his sincerity. Really there was nothing to forgive, though he was humbled to know his opinion meant so much to the old guard. When he was certain that his forgiveness would be accepted, he turned back to the Queens Eleanor and Lilia,

"Thank you for your indulging my many questions, Your Graces. You're really too kind. We should have the embassy up and running shortly with a suitable ambassador, I'm sure. If there is anything at all I can do for you while you're here, please don't hesitate to ask."