The New Dawn (New World only)

[Mascargo]

"The important takeaway from my little story is not to underestimate the qualifications of the young. I do not know much of Levin but he has a good head on his shoulders - that much I can be certain of." Aleksander said sincerely. His voice and demeanor changed for the worse suddenly as he firmly shook the man's hand and leaned even further towards the newly crowned King - mere inches from his ear. "Do not question the actions of your superiors, however odd they may seem to you - especially those who could have your head on a platter with a wave of their hands. You overestimate your standing, boy." he spat viciously, releasing his hopefully bone-breaking grip on Fadron's hand slowly. Aleksander smiled warmly at the man before nodding and walking away, wiping his hand with a handkerchief handed to him by Sir Charles.

King Fadron watched as the Emperor walked, angered with his insult. The fact that he assumed he had knowledge and understanding of the issues in Mascargo perturbed him. "Don't question my superiors?", he thought, his hands on his waist and staring up at the balcony where the musicians played. "As if the damned Andropovs are superior. Nothing but charlatans and some pompous clown calling himself Emperor isn't going to come here and tell me what I should do!" He gritted his teeth and walked down the hall, nearly knocking a servant girl over.

"Watch where you're going peasant!" He walked off into the nether regions of the Palace, perhaps to remove himself and think better.

[Svaladia]

Terizov Palace

King Magnus XVII marched through the entrance hall of the Palace, stopping to look around at all the other guests. He was of House Thorhallur and carried their blood well. He was a large and dominant man, standing six feet and four inches with a massive beard to boast. The Mascargoan guards at the door gulped in apprehension as he passed, bearing the image of a barbarian. Magnus had an aura of war and paganism about him, a king who probably spent more time exercising and brawling than governing. He was dressed with large furs draped around his shoulders. It was clearly a fresh mountain lion, the fur not treated or prepared, but merely skinned and draped around him. He had tied the paws around each other, holding the fur cloak in place and covering his back. Underneath, his ceremonial dress looked more like a chainmail outfit befit for a warrior than it did for a King. Instead of a simple crown he wore a golden open-face helmet, winged on the sides with a walrus being the center-piece.

It was as if a barbaric heathen had just entered the room. Those who had thought the Neo-Joseon guests looked too colorful and out of place were probably now nearly in shock, this fur covered brute now in their hall. Magnus had arrived alone, bringing no escorts or guests along with him. It was against tradition for a Svaladian king to bring guards or even advisors to diplomatic affairs. The king was the only man capable of representing the entire nation, speaking on behalf of every man, woman and child. It was fortunate for them that despite Magnus' coarse appearance, he was rather learned and a skillful orator; his booming voice always gathering crowds. It was impossible to ignore or overlook him.

[Mascargo]

Terizov Palace

King Magnus XVII marched through the entrance hall of the Palace, stopping to look around at all the other guests. He was of House Thorhallur and carried their blood well. He was a large and dominant man, standing six feet and four inches with a massive beard to boast. The Mascargoan guards at the door gulped in apprehension as he passed, bearing the image of a barbarian. Magnus had an aura of war and paganism about him, a king who probably spent more time exercising and brawling than governing. He was dressed with large furs draped around his shoulders. It was clearly a fresh mountain lion, the fur not treated or prepared, but merely skinned and draped around him. He had tied the paws around each other, holding the fur cloak in place and covering his back. Underneath, his ceremonial dress looked more like a chainmail outfit befit for a warrior than it did for a King. Instead of a simple crown he wore a golden open-face helmet, winged on the sides with a walrus being the center-piece.

It was as if a barbaric heathen had just entered the room. Those who had thought the Neo-Joseon guests looked too colorful and out of place were probably now nearly in shock, this fur covered brute now in their hall. Magnus had arrived alone, bringing no escorts or guests along with him. It was against tradition for a Svaladian king to bring guards or even advisors to diplomatic affairs. The king was the only man capable of representing the entire nation, speaking on behalf of every man, woman and child. It was fortunate for them that despite Magnus' coarse appearance, he was rather learned and a skillful orator; his booming voice always gathering crowds. It was impossible to ignore or overlook him.

Levin had reached the entrance of the hall, still annoyed with King Fadron. He understood that it wasn't everyone's job to like the Andropovs, or even nobility in general, but to be as callous as to insult him in front of an esteemed guest was crossing the line. Fadron was a nuscience for the nation, the largest obstacle preventing the Andropovs from dominating the nobility. He was the rebel, the dissenter, the schemer and the cheat, all wrapped into one decrepit and shallow being.

Levin stopped, a shadow having eclipsed the area before him. His eyes froze with trepidation as he looked and saw the barbarian King Magnus standing - no - towering before him. "Chyort," he thought, immediately wanting to back away. "What do they feed these people!?" Magnus had by now noticed him, and Levin cleared his throat. Regardless of his appearance, now wasn't the time to be perceived rude. "Good King Magnus! Welcome to Terizov Palace. The coronation will be beginning soon, please make yourself comfortable." He had wished Reginov was here, regretting that he volunteered to greet guests. "If you need any refreshments, there's plenty of tables just over there. Or just flag a servant down, they'll take care of you."

[Floydian Britain]

The dining-room was exquisite. The walls were covered with a shimmering gold paper and in the middle of the ceiling above the carved oak table was a candelabra. Down the center of the table was a runner with Celtic design woven in gold and green into the fabric itself. At the end of the table were floor to ceiling french doors, left slightly ajar to let in the scented summer air. The polished silver cutlery was heavy to the hand and shone brightly in the early evening light. At each place stood a tall empty wine glass and there were beautifully folded napkins to match the runner.

Pink had to admit, the food wasn't bad. Especially because of the fact that it was made by an inferior race.

[Aeoel]

Terizov Palace

King Magnus XVII marched through the entrance hall of the Palace, stopping to look around at all the other guests. He was of House Thorhallur and carried their blood well. He was a large and dominant man, standing six feet and four inches with a massive beard to boast. The Mascargoan guards at the door gulped in apprehension as he passed, bearing the image of a barbarian. Magnus had an aura of war and paganism about him, a king who probably spent more time exercising and brawling than governing. He was dressed with large furs draped around his shoulders. It was clearly a fresh mountain lion, the fur not treated or prepared, but merely skinned and draped around him. He had tied the paws around each other, holding the fur cloak in place and covering his back. Underneath, his ceremonial dress looked more like a chainmail outfit befit for a warrior than it did for a King. Instead of a simple crown he wore a golden open-face helmet, winged on the sides with a walrus being the center-piece.

It was as if a barbaric heathen had just entered the room. Those who had thought the Neo-Joseon guests looked too colorful and out of place were probably now nearly in shock, this fur covered brute now in their hall. Magnus had arrived alone, bringing no escorts or guests along with him. It was against tradition for a Svaladian king to bring guards or even advisors to diplomatic affairs. The king was the only man capable of representing the entire nation, speaking on behalf of every man, woman and child. It was fortunate for them that despite Magnus' coarse appearance, he was rather learned and a skillful orator; his booming voice always gathering crowds. It was impossible to ignore or overlook him.

"Ah, a kindred spirit." Seggrbjorn said as saw King Magnus.

The people of Svaladia were quite similar to the people of Aeoel, except for one difference. While the Aelans mixed their heathenism with Christianity in an almost perfect blend, the Svaladians had not. In the past, this had caused no conflict, but tensions always rose when religion was brought up. Seggrbjorn and Freya, in their royal-wear reminiscent of the ancient Vikings and Anglo-Saxons (ooc: think Asgardians in Avengers), made their way over to the king.

"Hail, shieldbrother!" Seggrbjorn called, a smile on his face.

[Svaladia]

"Ah, a kindred spirit." Seggrbjorn said as saw King Magnus.

The people of Svaladia were quite similar to the people of Aeoel, except for one difference. While the Aelans mixed their heathenism with Christianity in an almost perfect blend, the Svaladians had not. In the past, this had caused no conflict, but tensions always rose when religion was brought up. Seggrbjorn and Freya, in their royal-wear reminiscent of the ancient Vikings and Anglo-Saxons (ooc: think Asgardians in Avengers), made their way over to the king.

"Hail, shieldbrother!" Seggrbjorn called, a smile on his face.

Magnus turned to face his fellow, dismissing Prince Levin and thanking him for the refreshments.

"Hail shieldbrother. I did not expect to find a common brethren among these foreigners. Try as I might, I am rather unversed with this gathering; I barely recognize any of these people. I truthfully thought about not coming, but now is not the time for undue isolationism."

Magnus seemed enjoyed to find a kin among the noble crowd. While he was a king of proportionate wealth back in his home, he barely identified at all with what he considered the 'Modern Nobility'. He thought most of them weak, unfit to rule a nation properly. Yet he held his tongue for the most part around foreign delegations. Senseless aggravation wasn't normally his way. He spoke warmly with his coarse voice, his accent unmistakeable and dominant. "Regardless kinsmen, let me not dry you out with senseless rambling."

[Aeoel]

"Ah, a kindred spirit." Seggrbjorn said as saw King Magnus.

The people of Svaladia were quite similar to the people of Aeoel, except for one difference. While the Aelans mixed their heathenism with Christianity in an almost perfect blend, the Svaladians had not. In the past, this had caused no conflict, but tensions always rose when religion was brought up. Seggrbjorn and Freya, in their royal-wear reminiscent of the ancient Vikings and Anglo-Saxons (ooc: think Asgardians in Avengers), made their way over to the king.

"Hail, shieldbrother!" Seggrbjorn called, a smile on his face.

Magnus turned to face his fellow, dismissing Prince Levin and thanking him for the refreshments.

"Hail shieldbrother. I did not expect to find a common brethren among these foreigners. Try as I might, I am rather unversed with this gathering; I barely recognize any of these people. I truthfully thought about not coming, but now is not the time for undue isolationism."

Magnus seemed enjoyed to find a kin among the noble crowd. While he was a king of proportionate wealth back in his home, he barely identified at all with what he considered the 'Modern Nobility'. He thought most of them weak, unfit to rule a nation properly. Yet he held his tongue for the most part around foreign delegations. Senseless aggravation wasn't normally his way. He spoke warmly with his coarse voice, his accent unmistakeable and dominant. "Regardless kinsmen, let me not dry you out with senseless rambling."

"I make it my job to keep up with the ruling class of the world," Seggrbjorn said, "Knowledge is one of the most powerful weapons the angel Woden gave to mortals. Though, if I were to be honest, I also thought about remaining with my people. It would have been much simpler to simply rule Aeoel and make sure my people were safe. It seemed, however, that this would be a good chance to make acquaintances, and learn of the other nations. Plus, the food is quite good."

Freya shook her head as her husband began his own rambling. What he had said was true enough, but she had felt he was on the verge of one of his infamous rants. The Queen brushed her hand against her husband's who turned to her smiling. Seggrbjorn felt himself the luckiest man in all the world to have such a woman by his side. Glancing around those in attendance, he sighed.

"It seems most here are of the new politicians," he began, "Fragile, little maggots, unfit to lead the masses. Either their minds are sharper than the blades of our ancestors or their people care not for true leadership."

[Daegan]

Anna was still up in her dressing room. She'd give them one thing: these Mascargoan servants sure wanted this to be perfect. The girl who was brushing her hair was complaining that her hair was too shirt to style. Anna laughed it off. Sure, her hair maybe was a nice dark black, but she liked it short and boyish. Another servant was fiddling with the skirt of her dress. "It's fine." Anna said. "Thank you, but it's fine." The servant stood up slowly and turned away, but then stopped. She turned back around.

"Your Majesty, may I ask a question?"

"Of course. What is it?"

"Why did you insist for black flowers on your dress? Why could you not have it all whit?" The servant asked, confusion in her voice.

Anna smiled. "I couldn't wear something all white. In my home country, white is the colour of the dead, and to wear all white is bad luck." Anna smoothed out her dress. The servant nodded.

"Interesting. Thank you, Your Majesty." She turned away again.

"Wait." Anna said. "What's your name?"

The servant glanced over her shoulder. "My name is Marie."

Anna smiled. "Nice to meet you, Marie."

[Svaladia]

"I make it my job to keep up with the ruling class of the world," Seggrbjorn said, "Knowledge is one of the most powerful weapons the angel Woden gave to mortals. Though, if I were to be honest, I also thought about remaining with my people. It would have been much simpler to simply rule Aeoel and make sure my people were safe. It seemed, however, that this would be a good chance to make acquaintances, and learn of the other nations. Plus, the food is quite good."

Freya shook her head as her husband began his own rambling. What he had said was true enough, but she had felt he was on the verge of one of his infamous rants. The Queen brushed her hand against her husband's who turned to her smiling. Seggrbjorn felt himself the luckiest man in all the world to have such a woman by his side. Glancing around those in attendance, he sighed.

"It seems most here are of the new politicians," he began, "Fragile, little maggots, unfit to lead the masses. Either their minds are sharper than the blades of our ancestors or their people care not for true leadership."

Magnus snickered, agreeing with his sentiment. "It's a shame and a disservice to their own people. Weak mewling cowards better fit for hiding their faces are leading these countries." Magnus held his arms outstretched from his torso, taking an eagle-like survey of the room's occupants again. "Tell me, what do you think of our esteemed host, Stanis? I haven't had the luxury or displeasure of meeting with him yet."

[Mascargo]

Stanis had finished getting dressed, now covered with fanciful silk garments and a gold trimmed cloak. He stood by the mirror with an attendant helping him put on his medals and other accolades. He was deep in his thoughts about Daegan. For the moment, he realized that it was strange; he thought more about the country than he did for Anna herself. The country was rather impoverished when compared to Mascargo, wasn't nearly as prestigious, nor was it even an economic authority in Europe. Yet, Stanis still saw validity in his plan. Daegan was too poor to be an effective world power, they had no way of financing a military that could respond to issues abroad. Stanis wanted to fix that. He would supply the arms, and they would supply the troops for the Imperium. An effective international military.

"The Huntsman's Cross my lord?"

Stanis looked up, perplexed by the question. "Eh, what?"

"Shall you wear your Huntsman's Cross, milord?" The attendant and him had been going through the medals and various awards, picking out which to wear.

"Yeah, yeah sure. Pin it on." Stanis wore many of his medals, along with his accolades from the Knights of Kar. He took the ceremony seriously. Even if others couldn't support the marriage, they could at least pretend so for a moment.

[Aeoel]

"I make it my job to keep up with the ruling class of the world," Seggrbjorn said, "Knowledge is one of the most powerful weapons the angel Woden gave to mortals. Though, if I were to be honest, I also thought about remaining with my people. It would have been much simpler to simply rule Aeoel and make sure my people were safe. It seemed, however, that this would be a good chance to make acquaintances, and learn of the other nations. Plus, the food is quite good."

Freya shook her head as her husband began his own rambling. What he had said was true enough, but she had felt he was on the verge of one of his infamous rants. The Queen brushed her hand against her husband's who turned to her smiling. Seggrbjorn felt himself the luckiest man in all the world to have such a woman by his side. Glancing around those in attendance, he sighed.

"It seems most here are of the new politicians," he began, "Fragile, little maggots, unfit to lead the masses. Either their minds are sharper than the blades of our ancestors or their people care not for true leadership."

Magnus snickered, agreeing with his sentiment. "It's a shame and a disservice to their own people. Weak mewling cowards better fit for hiding their faces are leading these countries." Magnus held his arms outstretched from his torso, taking an eagle-like survey of the room's occupants again. "Tell me, what do you think of our esteemed host, Stanis? I haven't had the luxury or displeasure of meeting with him yet."

"He is one of the few I respect." Seggrbjorn said, running a hand through his blonde beard, "His mind is as sharp as Loki's and his heart is as noble as Tiw's, or Tyr as your people call him. Stanis is one of capable ones, not exactly among the great leaders of history, but definitely able to lead his people wisely."

[Daegan]

Anna found she had a fondness for this serving girl. After shooing the others out of the room, she sat down, making Marie sit across from her. Anna leant forward, resting her elbows in her knees and her chin in her palms. "Tell me all about Mascargo. What's it like here?"

Marie chuckled. "It's a wonderful country." She replied. "It's big and it's wealthy..." She paused. "That's not want you want to know, it is?"

Anna grinned. "Of course not. I already know plenty about this country. It's my job too. You're a girl, I'm sure you understand. I wish to know about the man I'm supposed to marry."

"Emperor Stanis...likes his war." Marie smiled softly. "Don't be disappointed that this marriage will mostly be the means of using your military. He'll be thinking more about Daegan than you."

"Oh, please, I know that. I don't care either. Let the men worry about their big things. It's much more fun being a girl. When you're a girl, the details matter so much more." Anna said. It was her own personal, kind of sexist belief, that a man's mind was meant for seeing the big image, while the woman's was to add in all the details.

Marie laughed, nodding in agreement. "Oh, and...he likes chess."

[Svaladia]

"He is one of the few I respect." Seggrbjorn said, running a hand through his blonde beard, "His mind is as sharp as Loki's and his heart is as noble as Tiw's, or Tyr as your people call him. Stanis is one of capable ones, not exactly among the great leaders of history, but definitely able to lead his people wisely."

"Hmm, then perhaps I am interested in meeting him. Once this charade of a wedding is over, we might then talk. History is a cruel fate for some, but his capability is a pleasant change from the environment around us."

Magnus grabbed a glass of wine from a passing waitress, gulping it down. "Diluted... what more did I expect." He looked over to Seggrbjorn and nodded his head. "Well, I suppose standing on the outskirts is the coward's fight. Perhaps we'll speak again Shieldbrother, but I did come to here to represent Svaladia. Might as well try speaking to some of these people."

[Aeoel]

"He is one of the few I respect." Seggrbjorn said, running a hand through his blonde beard, "His mind is as sharp as Loki's and his heart is as noble as Tiw's, or Tyr as your people call him. Stanis is one of capable ones, not exactly among the great leaders of history, but definitely able to lead his people wisely."

"Hmm, then perhaps I am interested in meeting him. Once this charade of a wedding is over, we might then talk. History is a cruel fate for some, but his capability is a pleasant change from the environment around us."

Magnus grabbed a glass of wine from a passing waitress, gulping it down. "Diluted... what more did I expect." He looked over to Seggrbjorn and nodded his head. "Well, I suppose standing on the outskirts is the coward's fight. Perhaps we'll speak again Shieldbrother, but I did come to here to represent Svaladia. Might as well try speaking to some of these people."

"Until we meet again, my friend." Seggrbjorn said, smiling as Freya took his hand, "And maybe I can find us some stronger ale."

With that, the royals parted and Seggrbjorn turned to his fair wife. Many thoughts danced about his head, from joy to love to sorrow to worry. He hadn't told her the real reason he had brought her and left their son in charge. Seggrbjorn had received a picture of his wife a few days prior, with an odd and familiar symbol painted over her face. Since then he had made sure to keep her close.

[Aeuria]

"Hmm, then perhaps I am interested in meeting him. Once this charade of a wedding is over, we might then talk. History is a cruel fate for some, but his capability is a pleasant change from the environment around us."

Magnus grabbed a glass of wine from a passing waitress, gulping it down. "Diluted... what more did I expect." He looked over to Seggrbjorn and nodded his head. "Well, I suppose standing on the outskirts is the coward's fight. Perhaps we'll speak again Shieldbrother, but I did come to here to represent Svaladia. Might as well try speaking to some of these people."

Emperor Aleksander watched King Magnus with great fascination from across the room, peering over the glass he was drinking from. As his gentle sip turned into a slurp, he peered down at the empty glass before setting it down on a nearby table.

"Could you be a doll and fetch me another gin, Charlie?" he asked his aide as he lit another cigarette. After a deep inhale he continued, "I'm quite interested in that barbarian king over there. Come, Marie - maybe he'll slay me where I stand and take you as his bride, eh?" he laughed heartily as he locked arms with his daughter who joined him in laughter.

"King Magnus is a bold one, though I highly doubt he'd be very interested in an entitled, pompous heathen of Aeuria - not to mention the Emperor's daughter." the Princess laughed as the pair strode across the hall, nodding to nobles as they passed.

Magnus downed a glass of wine in a few massive gulps, looking at the empty glass with distaste before setting it down.

Aleksander and Marie approached slowly, examining the king's unusual attire. "I can't see how this could possibly be a bad idea." Aleksander thought to himself as the beast of a man turned to face him.

Sir Charles suddenly appeared by Aleksander's side, his drink in hand, resting on a small, white napkin. He extended the drink to Aleksander before noticing the towering figure before them. As he peered up, the man's large, blonde beard instantly gave his identity away - King Magnus of Svaldia. Aleksander quickly fetched the drink from his young aide's hand and waited for him to make introductions.

After clearing his throat, Sir Charles spoke. "Hail King Magnus!" the thin and usually soft-spoken aide bellowed loudly, the unusual greeting attracting the eyes of Aleksander and Marie. "It is my honor to introduce to you His Majesty, Aleksander XVII, Emperor of Aeuria and his daughter, Her Highness, Marie XIV, Imperial Princess of Aeuria." he said, bowing deeply before stepping behind his emperor.

Aleksander smiled and nodded. "It's a pleasure, King Magnus." he said warmly. "I must admit, you are the only monarch I have met that is also the 17th of His name. May we do our ancestors proud." he said in toast with a smile as he raised his glass before taking a sip.

Aleksander has not yet been declared a living Divine. For the sake of simplicity, I'm having him apotheosized when he returns from this coronation since I posted about it mid-thread and the fact that he is required to go into isolation for a month. That is all.

*Edit: added OOC

[Svaladia]

Emperor Aleksander watched King Magnus with great fascination from across the room, peering over the glass he was drinking from. As his gentle sip turned into a slurp, he peered down at the empty glass before setting it down on a nearby table.

"Could you be a doll and fetch me another gin, Charlie?" he asked his aide as he lit another cigarette. After a deep inhale he continued, "I'm quite interested in that barbarian king over there. Come, Marie - maybe he'll slay me where I stand and take you as his bride, eh?" he laughed heartily as he locked arms with his daughter who joined him in laughter.

"King Magnus is a bold one, though I highly doubt he'd be very interested in an entitled, pompous heathen of Aeuria - not to mention the Emperor's daughter." the Princess laughed as the pair strode across the hall, nodding to nobles as they passed.

Magnus downed a glass of wine in a few massive gulps, looking at the empty glass with distaste before setting it down.

Aleksander and Marie approached slowly, examining the king's unusual attire. "I can't see how this could possibly be a bad idea." Aleksander thought to himself as the beast of a man turned to face him.

Sir Charles suddenly appeared by Aleksander's side, his drink in hand, resting on a small, white napkin. He extended the drink to Aleksander before noticing the towering figure before them. As he peered up, the man's large, blonde beard instantly gave his identity away - King Magnus of Svaldia. Aleksander quickly fetched the drink from his young aide's hand and waited for him to make introductions.

After clearing his throat, Sir Charles spoke. "Hail King Magnus!" the thin and usually soft-spoken aide bellowed loudly, the unusual greeting attracting the eyes of Aleksander and Marie. "It is my honor to introduce to you His Majesty, Aleksander XVII, Emperor of Aeuria and his daughter, Her Highness, Marie XIV, Imperial Princess of Aeuria." he said, bowing deeply before stepping behind his emperor.

Aleksander smiled and nodded. "It's a pleasure, King Magnus." he said warmly. "I must admit, you are the only monarch I have met that is also the 17th of His name. May we do our ancestors proud." he said in toast with a smile as he raised his glass before taking a sip.

Magnus lightly smiled at his compliment, but didn't take it too seriously. Realistically, he figured that the Aeurian Emperor was more interested in his barbaric ways than he was in actually discussing matters of state. This was common; Magnus himself didn't have an entirely positive view of Aeuria, but that was likely due to the cultural differences between them... not to mention they were literally on the other-side of the world.

"Hail Eastern Emperor. I would toast with you but the wine here is not to my tastes. Too fickle and fragrant, weak." He was clearly referencing his opinion of the other attendees around him, Magnus himself being well-known for his dislike of foreign customs and their niceties. Svaladian politics were generally simpler; the King ruled and you did what he said. It worked well for them. Svaladia was one of the first founded kingdoms and survived well throughout history, even resisting the foreign influences of Christians through war and scholarship. Magnus studied Aleksander, trying to conclude if he was even worth the time to talk with. A man who ruled a nation of that renown and power was to be respected, but was he to be considered a problem? The King wasn't sure.

"I see that you came here to see this wonderful union between Daegan and Mascargo? So have I. They're a rather impetuous neighbor with this 'empire that, empire this' style of rule Emperor Stanis has."

[Aeuria]

Magnus lightly smiled at his compliment, but didn't take it too seriously. Realistically, he figured that the Aeurian Emperor was more interested in his barbaric ways than he was in actually discussing matters of state. This was common; Magnus himself didn't have an entirely positive view of Aeuria, but that was likely due to the cultural differences between them... not to mention they were literally on the other-side of the world.

"Hail Eastern Emperor. I would toast with you but the wine here is not to my tastes. Too fickle and fragrant, weak." He was clearly referencing his opinion of the other attendees around him, Magnus himself being well-known for his dislike of foreign customs and their niceties. Svaladian politics were generally simpler; the King ruled and you did what he said. It worked well for them. Svaladia was one of the first founded kingdoms and survived well throughout history, even resisting the foreign influences of Christians through war and scholarship. Magnus studied Aleksander, trying to conclude if he was even worth the time to talk with. A man who ruled a nation of that renown and power was to be respected, but was he to be considered a problem? The King wasn't sure.

"I see that you came here to see this wonderful union between Daegan and Mascargo? So have I. They're a rather impetuous neighbor with this 'empire that, empire this' style of rule Emperor Stanis has."

"Indeed, I usually stay away from foreign wines - you never know what you're getting. I stick to gin, Aeurian of course," he laughed. "It packs a punch and you can get it just about anywhere. " he said devilishly before taking a small sip. "Fancy a taste?" he asked, immediately flagging down a servant and requesting a glass of gin for Magnus. In a short moment, the servant returned with a glass full of ice and gin and handed it to King Magnus before bowing and scurrying off.

Marie stood silently, meticulously studying Magnus' facial features as if he were a world-famous painting.

"Yes, uh, wonderful is certainly one way to describe Their Majesties' union." Aleksander said, faking a smile. He leaned in closer and lowered his voice. "Between the two of us, I feel Stanis is always... plotting something. It could just be paranoia, of course. I do not doubt your nation's military prowess - you have proven powerful warriors throughout history - but I would be on your guard after this union. I could not venture a guess as to Stanis' next move but it won't be philanthropy, I can assure you of that." he said, leaning back. "But! I shan't speak ill of the lucky couple on their wedding day." he said with a grin, pausing to allow Magnus to speak and to smoke his cigarette.

[Svaladia]

"Indeed, I usually stay away from foreign wines - you never know what you're getting. I stick to gin, Aeurian of course," he laughed. "It packs a punch and you can get it just about anywhere. " he said devilishly before taking a small sip. "Fancy a taste?" he asked, immediately flagging down a servant and requesting a glass of gin for Magnus. In a short moment, the servant returned with a glass full of ice and gin and handed it to King Magnus before bowing and scurrying off.

Marie stood silently, meticulously studying Magnus' facial features as if he were a world-famous painting.

"Yes, uh, wonderful is certainly one way to describe Their Majesties' union." Aleksander said, faking a smile. He leaned in closer and lowered his voice. "Between the two of us, I feel Stanis is always... plotting something. It could just be paranoia, of course. I do not doubt your nation's military prowess - you have proven powerful warriors throughout history - but I would be on your guard after this union. I could not venture a guess as to Stanis' next move but it won't be philanthropy, I can assure you of that." he said, leaning back. "But! I shan't speak ill of the lucky couple on their wedding day." he said with a grin, pausing to allow Magnus to speak and to smoke his cigarette.

Magnus stoically listened to his advice, not really worried about Stanis. "If Emperor Stanis wishes to trespass on my nation and heritage, then he best put my head on a pike. Otherwise, I will burn this palace to the ground and piss on the embers if he dares step to the challenge. Svaladia has never folded to foreigners, and I do not intend for that Russo-Slav bear-hugging Emperor to change that!" Magnus drank heavily from the glass of gin, madden with the thought of some brazen foreigner trying to steal his land.

"This is pretty good gin." He roared with laughter, his booming voice filling the hall. "Ah yes. This will be quite the wedding. I can already see the turning faces; mine was one of them. Two of my neighbors joining hands? Now, that's something you usually don't see!" He glanced over, noticing that Marie was staring at him. He chuckled and looked back to Aleksander before addressing her. "I presume that you intend to paint a portrait of me dear; you've been rather staring for a time now?"

[Aeuria]

Magnus stoically listened to his advice, not really worried about Stanis. "If Emperor Stanis wishes to trespass on my nation and heritage, then he best put my head on a pike. Otherwise, I will burn this palace to the ground and piss on the embers if he dares step to the challenge. Svaladia has never folded to foreigners, and I do not intend for that Russo-Slav bear-hugging Emperor to change that!" Magnus drank heavily from the glass of gin, madden with the thought of some brazen foreigner trying to steal his land.

"This is pretty good gin." He roared with laughter, his booming voice filling the hall. "Ah yes. This will be quite the wedding. I can already see the turning faces; mine was one of them. Two of my neighbors joining hands? Now, that's something you usually don't see!" He glanced over, noticing that Marie was staring at him. He chuckled and looked back to Aleksander before addressing her. "I presume that you intend to paint a portrait of me dear; you've been rather staring for a time now?"

Aleksander maintained a calm composure as King Magus yelled, though was quite surprised by the sudden outburst. He smiled as the king complimented the gin, nodding deeply.

Marie was caught off-guard by Magnus' sudden and direct question, pausing a moment to gather her thoughts before replying. "Of course not, Your Majesty." she smiled earnestly. "It is not every day I get to encounter such a man as you, you have quite the presence. And, wonderfully, dressed differently than the usual royalty I see." she said with a warm smile. Emperor Aleksander watched his daughter speak with Magnus as he drank liberally from his glass.

Across the room, Prince Jean-Pierre and Sir Charles stood speaking, seemingly-obligatory gin and cigarette in their hands.

"I'm not entirely sure why he brought me. I mean, it's like, what am I gonna do here?" the Prince said before taking a long drag from his cigarette; its long, gilded holder shining in the lighting. "Nobody's going to be speaking to me directly, not without the old man around anyway."

Sir Charles took a small sip of gin. "Such is the life of a Prince I'm afraid." he said with a laugh. "Just think about me, I'm his shadow; he doesn't go anywhere without me. And he goes to a lot of places!" he laughed.

"That's true I suppose!" replied Jean-Pierre before laughing. "But at least you enjoy these stiff events."

"The gin helps." Charlie replied, taking another sip from his glass.

"It's too bad we're not back home; at least there I could get loaded and then deal with this nonsense." the Prince complained, turning to look at others in attendance.

Sir Charles simply coughed, trying to hide his laughter before taking a drag from his cigarette.

[Svaladia]

Aleksander maintained a calm composure as King Magus yelled, though was quite surprised by the sudden outburst. He smiled as the king complimented the gin, nodding deeply.

Marie was caught off-guard by Magnus' sudden and direct question, pausing a moment to gather her thoughts before replying. "Of course not, Your Majesty." she smiled earnestly. "It is not every day I get to encounter such a man as you, you have quite the presence. And, wonderfully, dressed differently than the usual royalty I see." she said with a warm smile. Emperor Aleksander watched his daughter speak with Magnus as he drank liberally from his glass.

"Aye, fair enough. I imagine that my appearance and attitude is atypical to what you usually see in nobility. I probably look less of a king and more of a fighter to you." He stopped to pass his empty bottle of gin to a waiter. "We Svaladians hold an ancient tradition with our Old Custom that our king is a warrior in spirit and strength. We're a very traditional people. So, I dress the role to reinforce my impression. It usually delivers a clear message when you see me enter a room with my Council of Champions." He pulled back the side of his fur coat, hitting his chainmail. "It's real, if you doubted that. Nothing special about it, just a dress." He laughed and pointed to his golden helmet. "Now this is relevant to the kingdom. Forbears wore this, passed down through the generations of House Thorhallur."

He removed the helmet and held it up to her gently, just close enough for the Princess to look, even seeing her own scarred reflection in the weathered gold. "Real gold, nothing too impressive about that." His long blonde hair billowed out from where the crown-helmet once sat. He looked like a reincarnated viking, the living embodiment of the active paganism the Svaladians managed to carefully preserve throughout the many centuries. He slid it back on, smirking. "But that's enough helmet talk and idle boasting. I imagine if we held a match of: 'Who Carries the Most Gold', I'd probably lose rather quickly. You Aeurians are good at making money."

[Aeuria]

"Aye, fair enough. I imagine that my appearance and attitude is atypical to what you usually see in nobility. I probably look less of a king and more of a fighter to you." He stopped to pass his empty bottle of gin to a waiter. "We Svaladians hold an ancient tradition with our Old Custom that our king is a warrior in spirit and strength. We're a very traditional people. So, I dress the role to reinforce my impression. It usually delivers a clear message when you see me enter a room with my Council of Champions." He pulled back the side of his fur coat, hitting his chainmail. "It's real, if you doubted that. Nothing special about it, just a dress." He laughed and pointed to his golden helmet. "Now this is relevant to the kingdom. Forbears wore this, passed down through the generations of House Thorhallur."

He removed the helmet and held it up to her gently, just close enough for the Princess to look, even seeing her own scarred reflection in the weathered gold. "Real gold, nothing too impressive about that." His long blonde hair billowed out from where the crown-helmet once sat. He looked like a reincarnated viking, the living embodiment of the active paganism the Svaladians managed to carefully preserve throughout the many centuries. He slid it back on, smirking. "But that's enough helmet talk and idle boasting. I imagine if we held a match of: 'Who Carries the Most Gold', I'd probably lose rather quickly. You Aeurians are good at making money."

Both Princess Marie and Emperor Aleksander intently listened to King Magnus as he spoke.

Marie laughed. "I'm afraid you're probably... right." she said, smiling. "There's far too much gold, that is wealth," she corrected herself quickly. "in the Empire. We're running out of things to spend it on!" Marie laughed. "But you're right, of course, such boasting would be foolish." she said with a nod.

"There's always foreign investments, Marie." Aleksander said casually before turning to Magnus. "We've found throwing money at countries tends to break down any... complications quite quickly. You'd be amazed what you can get with a bit of cash." he said with a laugh before sipping from his glass, Marie looking at her father with amusement.

[Ulvena]

Mira stood in the side of the room where all of the delegates and leaders congregated. She wasn't all that outgoing, despite her constant bubbly attitude. It was enough of a contrast compared to the world leaders and delegates who were grizzled veterans of diplomacy and conducting themselves. And here she was, wearing a fur coat that could've easily been bought at the hip new teen store in any of Hanyang's strip malls. Her face wearing neither the experience of diplomacy nor the confidence of one who has power. A part of Mira regretted being here, nervously holding a glass of wine she managed to snag and pretending to drink, grimacing at the taste. She hated wine.

It wasn't as if it was the first time she went to a soiree like this. Her brother, despite being the Emperor, would sooner lock himself up in the lab and work on his projects, than attend gatherings from noble families. Before Ye-Jin was betrothed to him, Mira had to go to all of those. Not that it made things any easier.

"Your Highness, no need to feel so anxious," Kang-Oh, her bodyguard whispered in her ear, "His Majesty is watching...protecting you through me and you have a purpose: to expand our technological markets. As well as to deal with this, 'United Dawn Imperium.'"

Stiffly, she nodded as she turned to her adviser Liu. "Grandma...what do you make of all of this then," Mira asked. Liu gave a harsh, but non-threatening glare, "Don't call me that, you are a member of the royal family. Daughter to the late Sage Emperor and brother to our Scholar Emperor. You must assert your authority, Princess. Both to me and to those attending this meeting."

Mira couldn't help rolling her eyes. For one at the lecture, which she's probably heard multiple times, usually from Empress Ye-Jin, but about as much from the old woman standing in front of her as well. And second for the silly name that the Palace men and ladies insisted on calling her brother, 'the Scholar Emperor.' But she still gave a nod and looked longingly around the Palace.

"I hope the wedding starts soon..."

"If you wish my opinion," Liu started, "It is wise not to demonize or discount Aeuria, even though others may. Even our drones, intelligence, and military technology is no match for them on the battlefield. Nor are we a match for them commercially. Our edge is technology, do not forget that. In that similar vein, Princess, why did our great Emperor choose to annex Mongolia and divide our forces, despite the growing security threat in the Philippines?"

"Because..." Mira started, "Of their natural resources and trade routes?"

Liu smiled, "Correct. His Majesty figured no European power would stop him with their attention directed to the Mediterranean and Southeast Asia. He was correct. The Philippines was a mere populist ploy and posturing against Aeuria to discourage pushing up to our territories. His real target was trade. Siberia and Scandinavia are rife with natural resources. Laying down the transcontinental trade route will be a boon to the Imperium, and us as well provided we negotiate properly."

In response, Mira simply smiled and took a sip of her wine. It didn't taste as bad anymore.

[Dominion of New England]

It had been a couple hours since the envoy arrived, and confusion about when the official ceremony would start began appearing in the envoy's minds.
"Odd, I wonder what the hold up is, we've been here for quite awhile, have we not?" Said the Prime Minister.
"Indeed so, I don't think we are the only ones asking this though." Said the Minister of Foreign Affairs.
"I haven't seen his and her majesty for a bit, where do you think they've gone?"
"Frankly I have no idea, they are probably speaking to the Alcasian Delegation about The Francophone. Both of them are fluent in French, so I would imagine they would desire to talk to them."
"Indeed so."
"As for the meanwhile, what do we do?"
"Talk to the Mascargoians about our joint excerize in Finland maybe? I'm sure they would like to hear what we are going to send in."
"Fair point, let's go."

[Mascargo]

OOC: We're going to be moving into the actual coronation now. For simplicity's sake, everyone has already been seated.

Coronation at Terizov

All of the attendants and diplomatic envoys had been seated in the nave of the cathedral-like hall. Servants moved out refreshment tables and cleared most of the excess things out of the way as they prepared for the walk of the Emperor and his soon-to-be Empress down the aisle. A large red carpet was laid down the center, which divided both sides of the room. A few servants quickly sped by with Reginov in tow, finishing every final adjustment just in time for the process to begin.

The band above began playing the Emperor's Waltz as the large doors of chamber opened, Stanis slowly entering. As per custom, he'd walk the line first and await by the alter for Anna to enter. Of course, it was only partial tradition as the wedding would be rather rushed in order to accommodate for the actual coronation of both individuals as equals and legal leaders of the Imperium. While Mascargo was a nation that celebrated Eastern Orthodoxy, it mattered not to Stanis in which style they would marry. According to this, both of the religious beliefs would be mixed and simplified in order to not detract from the proper crowning of the ceremony. Emperor Stanis walked the red carpet, an Orthodox priest accompanying him along the small journey. A historic venture in the Emperor's eyes.

After reaching the altar, Stanis looked back at the crowds of delegates from around the world. He noticed Aleksander among the crowd, along with many others he had encountered or experienced before. He held a lot of faith in the union between Mascargo and Daegan; a proper start to begin Stanis’ ambition for the United Dawn Imperium. It was a rather complex idea, but with the Federation of Autocratic State’s failing, it was an obvious thing that needed to be done. With that in mind, Stanis looked upon the large chamber door where Anna would soon enter.

All eyes were on that door...

[Daegan]

Anna stood with Andrew behind the door. Andrew was fiddling with his tie, again. Anna had her head down, eyes closed. She felt slightly dizzy, and her heart beat resonated off the sides of her brain. Andrew turned to her. "It's just the biggest gathering of leaders we are apart of in a long time. And your wedding."

"Not helping."

"Okay. You ready?"

"Not really."

"You can always back out." Andrew laughed. Anna glared at him. "Oh, sure. You love him."

"The best bit of this: I get rid of you,." She took a deep breath. "One...two...three."

The doors opened, and Anna tried not to gasp at the magnificence of the room, guests or music. Andrew took her arm and walked her down. Anna's heart was thumping, both scared and excited of how much her life was going to change. Once they reached Stanis, Andrew let go of his sister and joined the guests. He smiled to himself. How literal that was, 'giving away' his sister.