The Grand Ball (IC: Please Sign up in OOC thread first)

[Ghant]

Zara

Erryk made eye contact with Zara before baring his neck, and turning his gaze towards Jennifer. The Empress turned her gaze towards Zara, with a cold look in her eyes. Zara for her part met Jennifer’s and returned the look.

"Go ahead, dear cousin." Jennifer said. Zara merely nodded, and with a quick movement went for Erryk’s arm to lead him off, her green eyes wide and burning.

Zara urged Erryk to join her on the floor for the dance then, smiling with satisfaction.

Allaria

Alena turned to Matthew and Allaria, a smile on her face that they all knew was false. Not because they could see it, but because they all knew what the air was like between them.

"So. How are you two?" Alena asked Matthew and Allaria.

Good, until you and your Vyrsarak ilk showed up, was what Allaria was thinking. But she needed to be polite. “Quite well, if you should ask. Having a man like Matthew Holland makes me very happy indeed.” Allaria followed that statement with a move to kiss Matthew.

Allaria smiled and continued. “And you have no idea how ecstatic I am to see you here…”

Then she sensed a presence behind her…

Albert

Where the fuck is Isabel, godamnit? Albert thought to himself as he shouldered through the crowds, in search of his cousin.

Albert didn’t like being around all these insufferable lords that he knew mocked him behind his back, but he was courteous and polite anyway. He had to play the part, and he was a guest of Perrin, whom he considered a friend, someone who vaguely understood him. Not many people do.

As Albert moved about, he shuffled through a group of young girls, all of whom scurried before him like sewer rats before a man with a flashlight…some of them were Caroline’s, he could tell. Alexia and Alexandra, and his cousin Victor’s daughter Rebecca. Victor wasted himself on a Blackburn, Albert thought with a scowl.

It was then that he recognized Allaria Belmore, daughter of that blowhard Arlan Belmore and that floozy Andraste Broda. Albert smirked as he approached her and Matthew. Albert thought he saw them talking to Vyrsarians, but they were not worthy of his attention. They are lucky I am not Emperor of Ghant, otherwise I would paint the Sea of Jormund red with their fetid blood.

“Well, well, if it isn’t Allaria Belmore and Matthew Holland.” Albert said, before addressing Allaria specifically. “How have you been finding this Holland fellow, Lady Belmore? As a Prince of Ghant, I should caution you about Shalum…lately highborn girls seem to be getting abducted.” Albert turned his beady dark brown eyes to Matthew, with the faintest hint of a smirk on his face.

[Shalum]

Major Jean-Paul Valliancourt and Holly

Jean-Paul blinked as she tugged on his hand, a bit surprised. He doubted that the kiss was something she was used, judging by the emotions that he face had betrayed only a few moments earlier, and noted to hold off on it. Maybe he needed to turn the heat down just a tad, as this was a proverbial war, every move could help him closer to the final objective, stall his advance, or even cause him to lose ground. He laughed a bit as he was dragged toward the dance floor. "Dancing it is" he replied warmly, his eyes focused on her backside as she took him to the floor. She had quite a nice body, very shapely, meaning that he had not even the smallest of complaints.

"Oh I can keep up! But can you, ma'am?" the major shot back with an amused grin as they began to dance. He moved to the music, the dance of the swing variety. As it turned out, he was quite a good dancer, due to the fact that he had started at a young age. He moved like the marines were taught to fight, like flowing water, fluid and loose. When she twirled, he would adapt and catch her, shooting her a small triumphant grin as he did so. As she broke away from the swing style, so did he, adapting his movements to meet her own; his skills being put to the tests as they went. He found it increasingly hard to not openly stare at her, as she shimmied and wiggled in-front of him, his green eyes finding her lithe figure quite desirable. Admittedly, he wasn't the type to hold back on admiration, but he usually tried to be subtle about things--hard to do in a situation like this.

To anyone that looked, it was clear to see that the Shalumite major was having a good time, as he danced across the floor with his Adiran dancing partner. "I have to say, Holly. You've certainly got the moves, and the looks to back them up" he laughed as they went.

Freya Kelman with James Mathews

James nodded and took a small sip of his own wine. "Thank you for that. Even though I'm not related to the royal family, and though I didn't know Princess Anna personally, I and many are taking it a bit hard. She was a very popular figure in Shalum, and not just for her looks. She was quite popular for her charity work, especially when it went to fighting disease and poverty in the southwestern parts of the nation. That coupled with her exemplary military service made her...quite a popular woman" the Shalumite Dominus replied before taking another sip of his wine.

"Your quite lucky, I mus say" he managed to grin a bit in reply. "Schottia being an island nation, with the biggest naval fleet watching over you, makes things a bit less stressful I'd say. But yeah, all this talk of war and everything has been a bit stressful. It's nice to get away from it, if only for a day or two" he admitted with a small sigh. He took yet another sip, enjoying the sweet taste on his tongue. He was beginning to feel relaxed now, thanks to the sweet, intoxicating drink.

James, being an analytic type who often had to take notes on matters, was able to absorb the rather long name of her union rather easily. "That's a rather long name, eh?" he asked wit ha small smile. "Sounds like quite a large group. I'm not the most familiar of Schottia, unfortunately. I've heard of the name, but I couldn't find it on a map" he replied with a shrug; watching her.

"I'm here as an auxiliary for the most part. The Imperator and Imperatrix couldn't make it, for good reason, so they sent me apparently. I don't think I'm the most qualified for this kinda thing," he chuckled, "but it could be worse I suppose.

"I'm enjoying it so far, the wedding ceremony was beautiful, and the party has been rather enjoyable so far. You run into some interesting characters a these events" he laughed lightly. At the mention of his wife, he paused, sadness flashing in his eyes for a brief moment. He had gotten over her death for the most part, but it still saddened him at times. "I am actually -uh- single at the moment" he replied. "How about you, ma'am?" he inquired; trying to change the subject.

[Nalaya]

With Kenneth

"I am sorry, Paron, but in this instance you are decidedly a gentleman," Keth said sympathetically, as if commiserating with him over bad news. There was a definite hint of amusement in her tone.

Keth smiled archly her companion's suggestion. She noted briefly the look between Kenneth and his companion, but didn't think anything of it. They were at least associates and probably friends. No surprise that they might communicate wordlessly there. And then there was the matter of drinks. She saw no reason not to indulge him. At a ball like this, she wouldn't have to worry about anything other than the alcohol content, not that she planned on even getting tipsy. A lifetime of care had conditioned her to watch herself too closely for that. "Very well," she agreed even as she contemplated what to choose for him. Should she pick something he would like or something that would be amusing? "I choose your drink and you choose mine."

The possibilities were virtually limitless with a bar like this. It's not as though Edomi royalty have to worry about pinching pennies, she acknowledged. There was something crooked to that, but she could say the same for most countries. Money had a way of accumulating at the top. Keth didn't have a lot of use for it—save for the obvious, which was that it bought her things—but she knew other people did in a large way. It was the golden temptress that had lead many a better person than her astray.

Part of her wondered about Kenneth. He was here, so he wasn't the average corporate lawyer. Furthermore, he was wearing a very nice suit. She recognized the cut, though she was less familiar with men's fashions. Knowing how to dress for every occasion was part of the job, though not to stand out. She was in government work and that meant no peacocking, no matter how tempting it sometimes was. Kethiilys decided that whatever Kenneth really was, in her mind he would remain a simple corporate lawyer just as she remained a dancer in his.

"Shall we away to the bar?" she said with a little wave of her hand in the aforementioned direction.

[Shalum]

Rebekka, John, Matthew, Allaria, and everyone else

John smiled kindly at Rebekka, his thumb thumb beginning to stroke her soft skin ever so lightly. The prince was hesitant to do so, but it kinda felt right as he held onto her hand for the moment. He found her accent especially cute when she was using English. "Vielen Dank" (Thank you very much) he replied for her own benefit in her native tongue.

He glanced at Emilie, and it was his turn to blush as he and Rebekka were summarily dismissed. "You heard the woman, to the floor" he chuckled. Tentatively, he led her by hand to the floor, where music was playing and pairs already shuffling. He felt himself grow nervous at the prospect. He had been taught to dance, but he didn't have much real experience with it. "Willst du mich führen?" (Do you want me to lead?) he inquired as they got to the floor.

Nearby, the Shalumite High Prince blinked in surprise as his lover kissed him on the lips. He smiled, if not a bit sheepishly, considering that he and Allaria had talked about keeping any displays of public affection on the down low for the sake of publicity. "I'm doing quite well. Things are a bit tense back home due to all the events as of late, though I'm sure you already know about that" he replied; glancing between Alena and Allaria nervously. He was quite sure that he could cut the tension in the air with a knife by this point.

As Matthew turned to face the new arrival, his eyes narrowed as he saw Albert standing before him, his lips tightening into an almost frown. He wasn't the man's biggest fan, and neither was his father. Too bad my dad and your little sister aren't here Matthew mused to himself. At the comment of Shalumite highborns getting abducted, his eyes went dark and his large frame tense. He was still for a long moment, focusing on breathing. "Good to see you too, Sir Albert" Matthew replied through grit teeth; voice low with a venomous undertone.

[New Edom]

Perrin Pahath-Moab and Sidney Harcourt walked out of the hallway they had been in, with Rover pacing along, CP and aides nearby watchful, deceptively casual. "We'll need to talk to the old man tonight, but let's not pretend that we'll take him by surprise," said Pahath-Moab.

"Of course not, the old Griffon is wise even out of her nest--" Harcourt was saying when they came face to face with Gary Corsie.

"Ah, the famous midfielder," said Harcourt, smiling, flicking ashes away from his cigarette. His face looked seamed, withered up close, eyes sunken but lively, strands of grey in his dark hair. Pahath-Moab by contrast looked sharp, vital, intense up close.

"Good. And you are--goodwill ambassador from Schottia," said Pahath-Moab. "Your goodwill is welcome. I hope you have been enjoying the Queen's wedding, she loves football, she found visiting Handon and other parts of Schottia for the Cup one of the best times of her life. We'll have to introduce you."

[Icrum]

Elat Novkiv and entourage
"Would you like some more wine Mr. Novkiv?" one of the servers asked Elat Novkiv, King of Icrum, as he sat at the table set apart for Icrum.
"No, my good sir; however," King Novkiv said as he turned to his company that joined him at the ball. With him was High Admiral of all Icrum Forces, Gavven Kutlar. A man no older that 38 years, he was the man that seemed confident in all situations. And he was, just not this one. Admiral Kutlar was a bit xenophobic, he didn't like the idea of being in big fancy parties from other nations. But he would put his prejudice aside to keep a professional manner. He was also accompanied by Leftenat to Gavven, Alice 'Suteki' Schenberg. Just turning 24 years old, she begged the Admiral to take her and a person of her choosing. While she rubbed people the wrong way when they first met her, probably because of all the whiskey she drank, she was a sincere person and genuinely liked people. Who she chose to bring with her was quite a shocker for most people. She chose to take her younger adopted sister, Victoria 'Suchiru' Schenberg. Suchiru was a 16 year old Black Guard. The most elite soldiers on all of Icrum. She was in the middle of investigating an assassination, but was forcibly dragged here against her will because 'Suteki' said it was 'good for her social life'. King Novkiv looked over his entourage and finished with, "Ask them what they want, I'm good though. Thank you," King Novkiv said to the server.
"Alright, what would you like sir?" the server asked Admiral Kutlar.
"Um I would take whatever beer you have, I guess?" Admiral Kutlar responded with.
"Okay, and you ma'am?" the server inquired of 'Suteki'
"I'll have your finest whiskey, and no ice please, it ruins the flavor," 'Suteki' replied while flattening her red gown she wore to the ball.
"Okay, and what about you, miss?" The server asked 'Suchiru'
"I prefer to be called Victoria outside my family, and I'll take the same thing that the Admiral is having," 'Suchiru' replied hunched over in her seat, twirling her Bowie knife on the table.
"How old are you?" The server asked.
"16? Why?" 'Suchiru' inquired.
"Well, your underage to get any alcoholic drinks ma'am, so can I interest you in something else?" The server informed 'Suchiru'
"I'll have a water then," 'Suchiru' said disgruntled about not getting the drink she wanted.
"Alright, I'll be back," The server said to King Novkiv.
"Alright, thank you very much," The King said to the server then he turned around a said to 'Suchiru', "Listen, this isn't Icrum, you aren't going to do many things here that you would get away with in Icrum. And for the love of God, put that knife away! You could lose your other eye playing with it!"
'Suchiru' covered her right eye, or the eyepatch over it since she lost it in a CQC battle with a rebel. After that moment, she was very defensive about anyway relating to her losing her eye. The server came back and gave everyone their drinks before placing some more breadsticks on the table. "Fine, but I don't like it." 'Suchiru' said as she put her knife away and then grabbed and begin to drink the Admiral's beer, much to the comfort of the Admiral, as he didn't like any alcoholic drink from anywhere but Icrum.
"Hey, Sue," 'Suteki' started to say before being cut off by 'Suchiru'.
"I've said a million times, don't call me Sue. Ever." 'Suchiru' said firmly to 'Suteki'
"Okay then," 'Suteki' said defensively, "But I was going to say, I brought you a dress, so why don't you get out of that stuffy combat gear and change into this?"
"No," 'Suchiru' said with force.
"Well to bad, your changing into it," Suteki said as she dragged Suchiru off to the bathroom to change her out of her uniform.
"Hey Kutalr," Novkiv said to the Admiral after watching 'Suteki' enter the women's bathroom with a fighting 'Suchiru', "Why don't we congratulate the new King and Queen, after all, it's their wedding. Plus I wouldn't mind being on the dance floor."
"Alright, I've got nothing better to do." The admiral said as he and the King of Icrum got up to congratulate the new King and Queen.

[Novitera]

Kenneth Sorley

Kenneth smiled at the complement. "If you think so than I must be." He replied, not knowing whether Keth would understand the address. For Noviterans, the word was not reserved only to be used for a significant other or beloved. It was playful, teasing and in certain circumstances, condescending (but not this one).

He was also not aware that Keth saw his interaction with Harvey. However he was able to surmise that Keth was a very astute and had superb observational skills. He thought that if Keth had been born in Novitera, she would have made a fine business executive. Perhaps even an adversary. That would have been a shame. Or perhaps a blessing because he would be able to see her more. Then again, such a relationship would destroy the mystery. Kenneth and Keth were both in the major leagues, just playing different games. It seemed better that way.

Kenneth followed her to the bar, already with a drink in mind. "Brigand Bourbon on the rocks. Single ice cube." He said to the bartender who brought back the dark liquor and set it down at the bar. "It's a Noviteran whiskey made mostly of corn. Brigand was my favorite drink for a long time." There was a very slight, almost undetectable hint of sadness in his voice. "Not that it's been replaced by something superior. Brigand Bourbon is top shelf liquor. Right up there with Schottian Single Malts." He said more optimistically. "Now your turn."

[New Edom]

The orchestra leader said, "Well, that got everyone swinging for sure! We're going to keep it up a little bit more, then move ahead in musical time. For now, let's put the swing into swing!" he said as the drums began.

Camilla felt the rhythm taking her, and she gratefully assented to dancing, thanking God in a way it wasn't a slow dance as it had been at the gala, but she was just so glad to be with him. Her heart was so full of sadness and joy all at once it could have burst, and she put all the years of dance training at the Whitehaven Academy to work; it was just so fun to be with him, her feelings began to fly away like autumn leaves and swirl in a tempest of pleasure at moving with him.

"Infotainment, I'll have to remember that," chuckled Levi Dathan to Cary. He admired Camilla dancing with William a moment, just her sheer exhuberance. They made a handsome couple, though William also did with his wife Lavinia. "I'm sorry, Singleton, I didn't realize that your wife was one of those bloggers. Foot in the mouth," he said with a smile. "But I don't mind blogging when it's about things like....I suppose things that are obviously made opinions. It's when they are proposed as being absolute facts that I shake my head. Ah well...and look, there's your President cutting the rug." Levi privately liked Adirans better than Arbiters, but one couldn't really say that of course, allies being allies.

Captain Marcus Cotta, in a green dress uniform with his row of medals walked around the ballroom with his eye agleam. He noticed the Lees dancing, and to him Mrs. Lee was a perfect sight, he hoped she didn't lose another pound. Though definitely barking up the wrong tree there. The Imperium's Ambassador was popular in upper Edomite circles, invited frequently to private dinners and other events, a friend of the current regime. The Deputy Minister of Culture decided to enjoy himself and made his way towards the bar. He noticed Holly Lemay along the way and winked at her, then signaled the direction he was heading in. The dark haired young man with his light olive tan, slightly wavy dark hair and impishly friendly smile carried himself with the same confidence and cheer he had in Carnmag.

Olympia watched everything from the gallery and was pleasantly surprised by the arrival of Julia. "Oh hello, my honey dearest friend, so good to see you, if you don't mind hanging about with a brood mare," she said with a delighted smile. "And I do still want to visit Adiron, it sounds lovely...and we can sit and chat, my husband's down there dancing with a Queen now." In fact Hesperinus was cutting the rug with Isabella, clearly a good dancer, fast and light on his feet, agile and enjoying the music. Like a dancing chimp, thought Olympia maliciously. I hope he breaks his thick neck. "And I don't like Noviterans, they're rude, their Latin sounds like someone having a choking fit. They're such vulgar people. Movies from there are so stupid, and they have no idea how to enter or leave a room."

[New Edom]

Cardinal Robertson. He had moved along the receiving line like an old grand sailing ship passing in review, and Mara had felt a faint shudder at seeing him. This old fanatical tyrant, why were they allies? Why were they not allies with jolly President De Groot? Damoclea. She felt remorse at this. She didn't like Arbiters at all, but who else had stood so close to them, had helped her father, had helped avenge him. So she felt tears fill her eyes and without thinking kissed his hands. "It has meant so much to me and my family, your country and the Curia's unflinching support in the face of our enemies...I'm so glad you took the trouble to come. It means more than I can say." But she still didn't like them. Perrin did, which annoyed her. Maybe he liked their discipline and hard view of life...

Mara felt sure that the old man disapproved of her choice of entertainment, but it was her wedding, damn it. A bunch of old clergy here tonight, including Lothair and Laudner, sitting hobnobbing. She could hear Laudner saying, "Yes, I agree with your sentiments. If I did not, I would not so heartily endorse our alliances to your country--or Nalaya or the Imperium, for that matter..."

Mara flung herself into the dancing, choosing to dance with Enoch now. Some grandees were approaching but she pretended not to see; if they wanted to talk to her that badly they could look like fools and interrupt, for now she wanted to dance the night away. She'd have to get back to Michael sooner or later and she wanted to make sure it was still something lively and fun...Enoch was a great dancer, they had rehearsed together this particular song anyway. And there was De Groot and Lily De Groot dancing like crazy, how fun! Everything was awesome.

Ava was being approached by Titus...how dangerous...how exciting and sad at once...

Ava's eyes lit up; she looked thinner than before, her face more drawn, her dark hair partly braided, partly flowing, and she said to Titus, "I'm so happy for you...I'm so glad to see you..." and then she smiled as he asked her to dance. "I did not know that so august a man of the Emperor's Court would swing, but let's do it, sure...remember the hunting lodge and our walks?" Ah, our walks that led to our trysts in the willow trees, you reciting Sappho and Ovid to me, making me laugh and me showing you the gardens I once worked on with such loving care...those bygone days seem a century ago..

Count Lalery for his part heard the band change songs, and abruptly took Murabella by the hand and began to walk out onto the dance floor with her. "Come on," he said, "You can enjoy the smoke later, at an appropriate time perhaps. Let's see what you're made of, Queen of the North. Can you dance?" his dark eyes challenged hers. After all, not far from them Dinah Dathan, Zadok Hesperinus and others were dancing in a jolly way to the happy music being played by the band...

[New Edom]

Doctor Elizabeth Salt, the Minister of Health, paused in her conversation with Colonel Horvath and said, "Your Majesty," with a bow of her head, with Horvath bowing as well. "Er, you want to dance to this song? It's hardly dignified, but if you want I think I can manage the steps, and be very honoured to have been asked."

Colonel Horvath bowed his head and said, "Your Majesty, please excuse me, I must see to some matters, and will leave you to the Minister's tender care..." and withdrew. He went and spoke to a junior officer of the Guard, Lieutenant Stephen Carmel, who was on duty, nodded as he spoke to him and walked briskly out, then made his way to a dressing room he had made sure servants would divert anyone from going into casually, and took a stiff drink from a flask in his uniform jacket's pocket.

[Nalaya]

With Kenneth

"Well, now I suppose I have to be kind to you. I was tempted to order you a Cosmo or something properly feminine," Keth said teasingly, covering his hint of melancholy for him. "How about arsakh,? It's a mulberry vodka from the Heartlands. Probably a bit strange to a foreign palate, but there you are."

She was curious about the little shift in the tenor of his voice and the drop of his eyes. Something had bothered him when he spoke about that brandy. However, everyone had their secrets and that was the way it was meant to be. Heaven knew she had enough secrets of her own that she didn't want people digging around. At least, not just anyone. There were certain personal things she could share with other human beings who made it past the armor, though sometimes it was almost more freeing to talk to a complete stranger. After all, their judgment didn't matter to her and she would likely never see them again.

Keth considered her current position as she picked up the glass with its single ice cube. Would she mind seeing Kenneth again? The answer was quick. She wouldn't mind it at all. In fact, it would probably be pleasant. He made her laugh despite herself and that was a rare thing to find in the world. That said, he was a Noviteran business man and she was...well, Kethiilys Zornakyan. The odds of them running into each other again, unless he chose to walk on the wild side and visit Yeraskh, were fairly slim unless she made it a point to keep in contact with him.

She sipped the bourbon and nodded approvingly. "Excellent," she commented, giving him a bright smile. She liked hard liquor even if she didn't indulge in it much. Things in moderation were usually for the best. Besides, she imagined that her enthusiasm for the drinks would have been considerably less if she'd spent more than one morning after vomiting them back up again. Even the idea was unappealing and that was nothing compared to the reality of a hangover. She knew what they were—she'd been an idiot teenager once, after all.

[Ghant]

Murbella

Murabella was prepared to smoke a cigar…she could use one…why not? Other things got in the way, however. They always seem to do.

Lalery perked up to the sound of music, and ensnared her by the hand, leading her out to the dance floor. "Come on," he said, "You can enjoy the smoke later, at an appropriate time perhaps. Let's see what you're made of, Queen of the North. Can you dance?" his dark eyes seemed to challenge hers.

Murbella smiled. Let’s see what you got, boy. “Why of course…I wouldn’t be a very good Queen if I didn’t. I think the more appropriate question, however, is can you dance, or at the very least keep up?”

Allaria and Albert

"Good to see you too, Sir Albert," Matthew responded, somewhat venomously.

Albert took it in stride. Yeah, you take that, you little shit, was his internal thought, however. “I am looking for my cousin, Princess Isabel of Garza. Have you perchance seen her?”

Allaria gave a forced smile. “I have not seen her, my Prince.”

Albert grinned at the pretty Belmore girl, and cocked his head at her. “Of course not, Lady Belmore. You are more concerned with other things, are you not? A funny thing, how House Belmore’s words are ‘for whom the bell tolls.’ I find those words fitting, considering how often this bell tolls…by whom, now that is the question.” He glanced back at Matthew and grinned.

Martin

Martin enjoyed dancing with Mara…she was very charming, after all. A great dancer, a pretty smile, a beautiful face and body…Michael was a fortunate man. He hoped very much that his brother would learn…learn how to be what Mara needed him to be. After all, wasn’t that what Michael was? He is not the man that Mara wants…he is the man that Mara needs.

Mara was off to dance with Enoch now, and Martin had to find somebody else to dance with. Martin, for his part, had his own lady to dance with once more. Maria of Garza was a woman that Martin both wanted and needed. He wanted nothing more than to grab her by the waste and pull her in close for that intimate kiss. He had to find her first, however. He knew that she was dancing with Michael, so all he had to do was find them. So it was that Martin went out in search of his lady love and his brother.

He didn’t get very far, however. Izolde of Izotza was upon him in that blue dress with the open back, her dark blonde hair hanging loosely in ringlets around her heart-shaped face. “Well, well, Crown Prince Martin of Dakmoor…might this lady have a dance?”

Shit. Martin smiled. “As you wish, my lady.” Martin got in the dancing position with Izolde rather quickly, and the two began to move and sway to the sounds of music.

Then Martin felt Izolde’s hand on his ass…

[Novitera]

Kenneth Sorley

He chuckled at Keth's tease. "Here I was thinking I would not have to watch my back around you. But it's still your choice not mine. A deal is a deal." Kenneth replied. "Arsakh." He said to the bartender. It was not Kenneth's first vodka drink but it was certainly one of his best. While he still preferred dark liquors or ales, Arsakh made it to the top of the list of alternatives. He wondered whether the drink would be popular in Novitera. Most likely. Are we importing this?

While Keth thought about how they would meet again, Kenneth thought something similar. The main problem would be finding the time and the logistics of it. Although, it was probable he would be sent to Nalaya on a business trip eventually. Novitera wanted their commercial fingers everywhere it would not be bitten off. If Nalaya was open to doing business, Kenneth would be there to represent his powerhouse corporate clients and he would be more than willing to go.

He was glad Keth enjoyed the drink. Or perhaps she was just being polite. If that was the case, Keth would have poor taste in liquors which Kenneth doubted.

"I worked in a warehouse in Folkport unloading and loading semi-truck containers as a teenager. Minimum wage. Every last Friday of the month, my co-workers and I would all chip in to buy a bottle. We would all share a glass after our shift. Those were simpler times. The drink reminds me too much of the youth I once had." And everything I've given up to be here. Kenneth explained, deciding to open up just a little. "I'm sure you would know something about that."

Kenneth took out a business card and slid it across the bar over to Keth.

Kenneth Sorley
Attorney-at-Law

Arlan-Sorley LLP - Senior Partner
21 Skelter Street. Avantine, SO, UFN. 91415
Ken.Sorley@arlansorleylaw.co.uf, (223)XXX-XXXX

"I hope you'll stay in touch. And if you're ever in Novitera, you'll know where to find me." He said to Keth and gave her a warm smile.

[The Vorindun]

"So, little brother, are you ready?" Alois teased Martin about their grand entry into the ball, after they had been delayed by a serious discussion about the future of the growing Empire of the Vorindun.

"Yes, but are you?" Martin grinned at him.

Martin was dressed in a rather regular tuxedo, with only his sash of office to indicate that he was the Kaiser of the Vorindun, the head of state of that Empire, a sovereign at 16 years of age. Alois was in the uniform of the Imperial Vorindun Army, with the rank of Captain (his last rank in the army) which now included those of New Hydrenia and Vorindeum after the annexation. He was still King of New Hydrenia, but that now amounted to the same position as Malibar of Dakmoor, a subordinate or vassal monarch under his liege. It would be a dependent kingdom of the Empire, and have order and stability at last.

With them were Queen Kristen I of Vorindeum, his first cousin and other vassal, along with Princesses Margret (unofficial social secretary of sorts to the Kaiser) and her daughter, Kristen's sister, Lise.....the youngest, least physically beautiful, and yet most winsome and charming in her own wickedly playful way. She was cross-eyed, so couldn't see well, but once one got past that, Lise drew a man or woman in. It was unclear what she actually liked, having gone through a "lesbian" phase thanks to a priestess of Anathaat, but that seemed to be over now.

Also present were General Septimus Lexus, the new Consul of Vorindeum to New Edom, Colonel Theos Theodorakis, the New Hydrenian Consul, and Lieutenant Commander Klaas de Vries, the new Ambassador, formerly in intelligence.

Lexus, a half-Roman, half-Arab fellow with distinctly Semitic looks, seemed to fit in better than de Vries, with Theodorakis seemingly distracted (what none could know was that he was a traitor, working against his own king and Kaiser). De Vries was still in the habit of acting like a spy and he already suspected that something was wrong in their delegation, but he couldn't be sure yet.

Princess Margret almost immediately looked for the youngest available eligible man in the room, but who would that be? Lise did the opposite, actually seeking Jacob Lee, no less, for a dance.

Kristen, meanwhile, walked to ask de Groot for a dance, for no better reason than that she wanted to do so, while de Vries asked the President's wife. Theos Theodorakis, strangely, went in eager pursuit of Allison Amber, the Ganosian Chancellor Princess, of all people. Lexus instead asked Samantha Lee.

Alois approached Olympia, just to gauge her reaction, while Martin simply chose the youngest half-sister of Nathan IV.

[Late Roman Empire]

"As you wish, Imperial Majesty. General, will you do me the honor of such a dance?" Lucia recovered her confidence quickly, deliberately smiling at him with surprising warmth.

"So, General, that is quite the accomplishment, rising to such a rank. Tell me, though, do you ever have anything in your life besides duty? Ever have any thoughts of marriage, family? I suppose that's not such a change for the best in your case. To go from being a proud officer to being someone's house husband and at her total mercy. Have you ever considered what else life has to offer, a life of freedom and pleasure instead of misery and constant betrayal?" Lucia raised questions as she tried to get him to lead the dance, or at least consider doing so.

[New Edom]

During his dance with Murabella, Lalery enjoyed himself. She was cunningly dressed, so that a lot of her smooth legs and arms were exposed, her nice back and shoulders, suggestions of her other curves constantly, and he took advantage of this.

Taking her for a twirl, spinning her to the fast paced swing piece, he would move his hands on her waist and now and then brush them over her lower hips, pulling her to him tightly a moment, then lifting her and getting a good look to see what was under the dress.

In a way though he was going through the motions, his heart not in it. There was little sense of the hunt or seduction or play about this--she just openly wanted a man and had picked him. The kind of play he enjoyed...just wasn't happening, but he could hardly show himself to not be into such a beautiful woman on the dance floor. Curse this mood of his...it was his sister who had put him in this mood.

[Late Roman Empire]

"Ah, Dr. Salt, it is good to see you again. How are things for you in your present position in the cabinet? How fares Fineberg and the former Free Congress in an apparent coalition government. We recognize and deal with a united New Edom, but affection for the Queen herself and some other royals besides, we do not entirely trust certain Monarchist officials, if you know what we mean. We admit that the music wasn't on our mind, just the company of an old ally and friend," he guaranteed in low tones to Dr. Salt as they prepared to dance, Valerian taking the lead, of course.

Titus, for his part, leaned in to whisper, "I have been so worried for you, my dear Princess. I regret that your marriage ended so poorly. I never wanted you to suffer. I hoped that you would be happy and perhaps you can be in time. Happy enough to leave the drugs behind, which is what I would like to see happen for your own sake."

Justus Florianus and Junius Ausonius both relaxed, the latter much more than usual, though deep down Ausonius was still a cold fish at heart.

Florianus kept up the dancing for a little while, but Ausonius had to excuse himself due to a text and one that truly disturbed him.

Troubles getting worse in Azurlavai. Someone needs to alert the Emperor.

It was from Statius Gallienus, the Master of Offices.

Ausonius mouthed it carefully it to the Lord of the World, and he nodded, essentially agreeing to pass down his commands when the chance came. For now, however, he was not rude enough to so insult an old friend such as Dr. Elizabeth Salt.

For Florianus, the opening came to seek out a rather drunken Carlita, just for kicks. He excused himself to let the young lady find someone closer to her age. She was too young for him, of course. He had to find out how she would take such a gesture. Ausonius then looked for Ursula to seek what opportunities that he might have with her.

[New Edom]

"Look at them, sir," said Dr. Salt, turning and nodding her head towards the dancing aristocracy of the land in their glittering uniforms and dresses. A famous ruler once said of the aristocrats: “The ancient nobility served me; they rushed in to crowd my antechambers, there was no appointment they would not have accepted, asked or begged for. They performed curvets like a well-trained horse, but I could feel them quiver.” " she shook her head and smiled. "Just look at them now--and watch them bowing and scraping to the Boy General the moment he makes a move. There is some worth among them--the Queen is a good hearted young woman, Admiral Shalmaneser is a truly gifted naval commander and leader, but is it more than that of any other person? No. The General is establishing a true meritocracy."

For a moment a shadow of bitterness came over her face as she saw Admiral Rand dancing with his beautiful young wife, then she looked back at the Emperor. Give thanks every day for your life, you bastard, she thought of Rand. "We were too divided amongst ourselves, the Free Congress--too divided by political opinions and ideologies. Do not imagine, sir, that they are making a comeback. Shall we dance?"

Ava put her hand up to Titus' mouth a moment. "Hush...I find my bliss in the poppy, my joy in the grass," she smiled at her bon mot, "But you see I am carefree as a lark, as joyous as the sun! There are rumours, my sweet thighs' welcome to be saved for a Ghantish grandee in case Sophia does not survive her pregnancy! I'm waiting in the wings, my dear Titus...do not think I begrudge your happiness at all. I am holding a place, but not for too long."

As there was a brief moment in the dancing when she was held by him, she whispered, "See Lalery over there, and Rebecca--oopsie, off she goes to powder her nose--or something--heading off that way? They're using the ovaries of the House of Obed to keep their usefulness up, but it's all a dream. Perrin is the puppetmaster, we the pawns, and they can barely keep the sneers of fear off their faces. We will all be kissing his ass openly soon enough..."she giggled in a fey way at this, her eyes distracted. "But I love everyone, what do I care?"

[Ghant]

Sophia

Sophia enjoyed dancing with her father…he was very gentle and comforting, and skilled at dancing as well. But she danced with him long enough. Sophia smiled and bid her father farewell from the floor, in search of a new partner, perhaps.

There were many beautiful women there, many younger then she. Sophia wondered if she could still shine in such a condition. There is only one way to find out… she thought, as she picked up her dress and looked around, letting it be known that the Empress of Ghant was free to dance.

Malibar, for his part, scanned the room for a new dancing partner. Out of the corner of his eye he spied Princess Margret of Vorindun. An older woman, and attractive at that, Malibar made his way towards her. Then addressed her. “Would you care to the groom’s father the honor of a dance, my Princess?”

Amelia

Princess Amelia was the youngest of Nathan’s half-sisters, and the one that was the most willful of the bunch. She was 14, with long, thick dark brown hair, and eyes that matched. She wore a black dress with matching stockings. She wasn’t gothic though…she just fancied the way it contrasted with her fair, dark freckled skin.

She was getting advanced upon already. Artizar of Gauekoizarra and Prince Tyler had already danced with her and put in moves…she had to give Artizar a subtle knee to the balls after he suggested that she ought to go leave the ball with him, on account of there being other balls to enjoy.

She recognized the next fellow to approach her…the Kaiser Martin of Vorindun…the guy that Alexandra is always talking about.

Amelia accepted his offer to dance, and as Amelia got into it, she spoke to him. “You must be Kaiser Martin of Vorindun…I recognized you. My sister Alexandra is a big fan of yours, you know. She might get jealous if she sees us dancing…tell me, what has it been like having her at your court?”

Alexia and Alexandra

Alexandra enjoyed her dance with Justus Florianus as did Alexia with Junius Ausonius.

Then it came to pass that the two Roman gentleman went off, and Alexia and Alexandra were together once more.

“I think we should find Kaiser Martin.” Alexandra said, anxiously.

“…What’s the hurry?” Alexia asked.

“He might be dancing with another girl who wants to draw him in!” Alexandra answered, worriedly.

Alexia sighed. “I know the feeling.” Rebecca had told her much about John Holland, and Alexia wanted to meet him. But another swooped in on him before she had the chance. I am always in the wrong place at the wrong time. The slender and softspoken half-sister of the Emperor (his favorite if one were to venture a guess) had a knack for ending up disappointed.

Alexandra supposedly had Kaiser Martin to tickle her fancies, but what about Alexia? Sure, she was young, only 18, but she was mature. More than Arietta, at least.

For the time being, she stayed close to her younger sister and went where she went, wondering if there would be any magic for the disenchanted princess.

Murbella

Lalery seemed to be enjoying himself during his dance with the Queen of the North. He was twirling her around, putting his hands on her waist, brushing her hips, pulling her close, and taking whatever opportunity presented itself to study her body. Murbella was pleased with this, and didn’t resist any of his moves, but rather going along with them, a smile on her face and a twinkle in her eye.

Murbella was a perceptive woman…one had to be in her position in life. She studied his face, his eyes, his mouth, his nose, and came to the conclusion that something was amiss. Perhaps it is because I am not Alazne Dain. Murbella knew that the shy and softspoken beauty was both inexperienced, naïve and reserved, but she had a magnetism and charm that drew men to her like moths to a flame. Alazne was not unlike her second cousin Sophia, whom both descended from the renowned charmer Amadeus Orinbere and the great beauty Zisi Sastagai. Murbella was of different stuff…northern stuff.

She decided to make things interesting. “You are a very good dancer, Count. Tell me true, how did you come to possess such skill? And your hands, so deft…is that a result of nature, or was that also an acquired ability?” She wondered how easily he might understand her, with her thick and heavy northern Ghantish accent, and being in a loud ballroom with the sound of music all around them.

Rosalina

Princess Rosalina of Ghant came with the Ghantish/Shalumite group, which featured her parents, Princess Alyssa Holland, Prince Edward of Ghant, her brother Victor and his wife Elizabeth Blackburn, their children Rebecca, Tyler and Samantha, and Rosalina's younger sister Miranda. Although she had much company, she never felt more alone, more out of place.

She was wearing a white dress that left her back and shoulders bare, that contrasted with her slightly darker than fair skin, with thick dark brown hair that went just past her shoulders, done up to look pretty. She must have been the oldest woman there with such a dress, which was the fashion trend of late. Although she was 39 years old, she did care about that. This was despite the fact that she was single and never married...shocking to most people. She was pretty, wealthy, and highborn. Yet, she was a middle child of a Holland, and as such she was stubborn, willful and tended towards being a tad implacable.

Rosalina walked around the ball, everything moving so fast, the music playing the way it did, made it all seem like a blur. She danced a bit with some highborn men, some flirting with her subtly, but none of them interested her. They never did...because they are not him.

She needed a drink. Yes, please...that would do rather nicely. Rosalina walked to the bar, her hazel eyes peering out from her lightly freckled face to observe her surroundings...

Then she saw him. The sight of him took her breath away. Am I dreaming? It seemed like a lifetime ago when she had last seen him. In truth it was 19 years ago, at the wedding ball for her brother Victor and his college sweetheart Elizabeth Blackburn. 1995 was a long time ago, and much had changed. The man she saw there at the bar was the man that made her heart flutter. He was her first...he was so tender, so passionate. But it was not meant to be.

He asked her father for her hand at that ball, but her father said no. The man was not highborn enough for her hand, and her father had greater ambitions for her that never came to fruition. So Rosalina spend her days a disappointment, spoiled goods that drifted from one man to the next, never quite being able to bring herself to the point of marrying any of them. Such was life, after all.

She wanted to say something to this long lost love of hers at the bar. But she couldn't it had been too long, and it would be to awkward. Would he recognize her? Would he care? Would he even want to speak to her? He was married now, to a younger, more beautiful woman, one that would make him happy and give him children. Rosalina was past her prime, not worthy of his attention.

So she stood there and froze, looking on as the world slowed down around her. As she stared at the man and admired him for how she remembered him, tears began to stream down her face.

Jack Harper...the man my father refused my hand to, all those years ago.

[Vyrsar]

Rebekka and John

As they got onto the dance floor, and Rebekka felt John's hand on her waist, she blushed and leaned in close to his ear.

"Ich weiß nicht, wie ich werde in diesem Kleid tanzen."

"I do not know how I am going to dance in this dress

She leaned away, looking him in the eye with a seemingly innocent yet slightly naughty look that one might call 'puppy dog' eyes.

---

Matthew, Allaria, Alena, and Albert

Noting the immediate effect that Albert was having on Allaria and Matthew, Alena wracked her brain for anything that she could use to put Albert in his place. Though she felt little but disdain for the two, she hated men like Albert even more.

"Do tell, Albert, is your ego so big as to compensate for your," Alena paused for a moment to motion to his crotch, "lackings elsewhere? Must be why Elizabeth chose Malibar's heart over your- or should I say lack of your- manhood."

She crossed her arms and cocked her head at him, locking eyes as though daring him to say anything in response to her.

[New Edom]

The Hutanjian Ambassador

"Mr. Andrelanu Eptando and Mrs. Serala Eptando, I believe?" said a grey haired medium sized man with a rather feline face, light olive skin, dark hair, wearing a pectoral cross and episcopal robes. "I am Bishop Adam Zecharias, the Chief Justice, we met very briefly at the benefit ball I think a month ago, but it is a great honour to see you."

The Queen had been gracious when meeting them both in the receiving line, her eyes lighting up as she said, "Oh yes, my father was so passionate about Hutanjia, and so am I, the President advises me how our alliance is forged in blood...so glad to see you both. What troubling times we live in, but thank you for in the midst of it attending my wedding. And you look beautiful, Mrs. Eptando! I heard you're a diplomat as well?....

"Well, this has been a much anticipated but well resolved wedding," he said, eyeing the young Queen as she cut the rug on the dance floor to the swing tune. "How are you both settling in here? I do hope you will call on me now that you've settled in, I like to get to know all the ambassadors, but most particularly those of trading partners and allies..."

[Late Roman Empire]

"I do not love everyone. I love God. I love the Emperor, but not in that sense. I love the Empire....but as to the love of a man for a woman, let me be clear. I gave you up for the good of our two countries, of your family and your destiny, which I hope would make you happy in time. I hoped that you would start to fall for him and he for you, as Livia and I have for each other. Even so, she is not the great love of my life. You are and you always will be. I love her, but I am in love with you. Never forget that. I will grow to love her more over time, as duty and a shared life give us cause for more love and trust, but I will never cease to cherish our love affair while it lasted. It was the happiest time of my life. Do not ever doubt that," Titus swore to Ava.

"That love will not wash away, nor will all of the drugs or your remarriage to whomever take that away. I will love you, Ava Shalmaneser, until my last breath," Titus told her with great conviction, fed by the two glasses of red wine.

He knew that this was likely the last time that they would ever meet, in the event of her remarriage, but he had to say it for the record. He had to let this wonderful, sad young woman whom he loved so dearly know for the rest of her days that she was truly loved by one man, if no one else. Sometimes, the truth was its own reward.

[New Edom]

"At least you have your duties to carry out...we also serve who only stand and wait, yes?" said Ava with a sad smile at him. "Yes, Titus, and I will never forget my lover under the willow trees, nor will I forget your gentler side that I feel only I have seen...and I will cherish that. Do I not do my duty? My little habits...they harm no one...and I married when my brother commanded it, annuled when he commanded it...and will marry again when he commands it. Can you ask more of me?"

She sighed as the dance number continued, and said, "I feel an ache of the head coming on...I must go and sit, Titus thank you for the dance, I will cherish that too. Vale." she added, giving him a Roman style salute as she stepped away.

This was because she only had so much strength. Why did he have to speak to her thus in public, in front of everyone? With tears welling up in her eyes, Ava swept away with her chin lifted with great dignity, nodding at bows she received from aristocrats, civil servants and officers as she made her wait to the corridor leading to a ladies' powder room....

[Late Roman Empire]

"Well, Dr. Salt, that is a large part of why I favor Perrin and continue to support his government. He has been a firm hand and a voice of reason when both are needed in your country, to bring these factions to heel and make your country prosper in peace again. As for these others, well, then they had their day and they missed it. Perrin makes the trains run on time and we can do business with him. Being Romans, we will be friends, always," Valerian observed, then looked at Rand, too.

"Him. That man broke the peace. If it were not for him, the coalition might have by some miracle held the country together and never brought a civil war. Rest assured, God will punish him. In the meantime, I will never trust him, nor will others. I, for one, am not that trustful of that Kent fellow, but him I have to deal with for now. Anyway, thank you for the distraction from my own demons. It was good to dance with such a lovely woman who happens to be an old friend of the Empire. I take my leave for now, but just remember that to me, though I embrace Perrin as a brother and Mara as a sister, I will always admire what you tried to do. Sure, you made mistakes, but so have I. We're friends and allies, and that will never change," he smiled at Salt.

"Excuse me. An Emperor never can stay in one place for too long," the Emperor smiled at Salt as he departed at last.

Now he sought out Sophia for a dance.

"Imperial Majesty, I have never met or danced with you before. Time to rectify that, would you not say?" the Roman Emperor asked the Empress of Ghant.

[Lamoni]

Walking up to the bar, Ambassador Ramsden ordered a single malt whiskey. After getting served his drink, he walked out to where people were congregating, passing by a group from the nation of Vyrsar. Managing to catch the last bits of the conversation that they were having, the ambassador noticed the defiant look which Alena was giving the others, and decided that he had probably better say something before he was considered rude for staring.

"Hello Princess Alena, Lady Bellmore, Prince Matthew, Prince Albert, I am Ambassador Ramsden from the Free Republic of Lamoni. I realize that our nations have had nothing at all to do with each other as yet, but I was wondering if it would be too forward of me to ask the Princess for a dance. This is a wedding celebration after all, and it is a time to be merry, not a time to be defensive." Setting his drink down on a convenient nearby table, he waited to see what sort of response that he might get.