The Razonican Ball (Escar Only)

[Razonica]

For the first time since her coronation Empress Feania Lussengarde has declared that there will be a ball held in the Royal Palace. The reason for the ball is to strengthen the friendship between Razonica and her allies and to make some new friends. The ball is being held in the main royal ballroom and all are welcome if they come in good faith. All airfare and hotels will be paid for courtesy of the Crown.

On the day of the ball the capital of Razonica, Haemica was busy preparing for guests. Decorations were being hung in the marble palace, the gold chandeliers were being polished. The retired rulers (Faenia's parents) were carefully lead into the ballroom to met guests and make them feel more inclined to speak to Faenia. The Empress herself stood outside with her siblings, ready to personally greet guests as they arrived. A fleet of limos left for Joela Airport, each one with the flag of Razonica and the country who's leader they were picking up. Once they got their guest they'd return to the palace were a 9 course meal was being prepared and the best performers from across Razonica would play, including Faenia who would open the ball with a gentle violin solo, afterword the orchestral would take over.

Violin Music: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OcIrkwrZ1tw

[Khornera]

Razonica

The arrival of a Khorneran Royal delegation was always unmistakably recognizable. The large wedge formation of guards in ornate uniforms marching ahead of the monarch and his retinue was a typical sight at such an occurance. Behind the sworn defenders of the monarch, the knights called Shieldmasters, Archking Oberon vi Luxian of the Royal Federation marked, flanked by several advisors and companions. The Khornerans always attended events such as these awfully overdressed, in the Khorneran equivalent of the local dress code. This had often put them at odds with local 'purists', whom insisted in proper adherence to protocol. It wasn't that Khornerans disregarded rules and traditions, if anything it was quite the opposite. Khornerans simply valued their own costums more than those of foreigners. After all, one musn't let the proper ways be abandoned to appease the ignorant. Rather than the customary 'white tie' waistcoats and shirts, the male Khornerans dressed almost entirely in black, with a few distinctive exceptions, such as their white bow tie, the silver lining on their lapel, and the decorative blue sash. On their shoulders they wore a cloak that hanged down to their lower back. These cloaks were what made a Khorneran nobleman visible from afar. Often these cloaks were made from the furs of exotic animals, often slain by the nobleman himself as a feat of bravery, sometimes with only a spear if the nobleman was particulary courageous. The Archking wore the fur of a lion, the uninspired symbol of the Khorneran monarchy. On their waist they carried a sheathed ceremonial knight's sword. These swords differed from the sabres that many nobles or officers carried with them, in that it looked more akin to a rapier that had a bastard child with a longsword. On the other side of their waste a few also carried a traditional Khorneran dagger, which was always carried by the head of any dynasty or military unit. In older, less civilized times, these daggers were used to vow one's loyalty through the shedding of one's own blood, this way becoming one with those whom had done so before. This was the way a Khorneran honored his ancestors, descendants, or all those whom had come before him, will come, or stood beside him now. These days the cutting of the wrist had been replaced by ceremonies that were more symbolic than bloody, as Khorneran soldiers deployed in far-away marshes once learned about infections in a rather unpleasant way.

As the delegation approached the door to the ballroom they were greated by the young Razonican Empress and her family. The wedge formation in front of the Archking parted and stood aside, presenting the Archking and his retinue in full view to the Empress. Archking Regis stepped forward, extending his hands to greet the Empress. His wizened grey hair implied wisdom beyond his years, despite the relative youthfulness of his face. "My lady." he spoke. "It is a pleasure to be here today." He introduced his reputable companions, names which the Empress had undoubtedly heard of before: Archqueen Hera; Archminister Caer Malavai Vultus; The Khorneran Ambassador Agist; the Archking's children; and ofcourse the suitors. Although the Archking did not dare use the word 'suitor', it was clear that the three young gentlemen presented were here for that single purpose. The Empress had already received some preliminary information on them, as this entire arrangement was predetermined by the agents and brokers of Khorneran dynasties.

First was prince August vi Luxias, third son of the Archking, and currently a student of the finer aspects of Khorneran history and culture. In his free time he, like many Khorneran noblemen- and women, practiced swordfighting passionately. Second was lord Coriolanus vi Tyr, son of a respected and powerful Khorneran house with strong ties to the Crown. He was slightly older than August, and had a reputation of being a master swordsman, with rumors of him going professional. Finally there was lord Cailean vi Auris, oldest of the three, and currently a junior representative for his family in the Chamber of Highborne. They all bowed gracefully towards the Empress, kissed her hand, and introduced themselves politely and courteously.

[Razonica]

Razonican Ball, Royal Palace

Faenia curtsied politely to the 3 young gentlemen, Archqueen and Archking and smiled "I welcome all of you to my home for this special occasion that aims to strengthen our friendship. Please, step in side and listen to some of our warm up music and socialize. I shall open the orchestra when all the guests arrive. Enjoy your time here I shall join you all soon." Faenia continued to smiled but had her own thoughts I see that they came very well dressed. Probably to make a statement. A show of their wealth and power probably. As I display mine, my people would have it no other way. We shall not lose this little game.

As the Khornerans walked inside Walter and Ymira also gave their greetings. Walter was a handsome young lad with amber eyes like Faenia. His brown hair also matched Faenia's. Ymira on the other hand had the figure of a woman, almost challenging Faenia. Her hair was light red and her amber eyes had more color than her siblings, they were hypnotizing. If she were older perhaps she'd have taken interest in the young gentlemen walking in. Walter and Ymira eyed the guest's swords with interest, they were sparing partners and were evaluating the guest's swords. Another beautiful woman would greet the Khornerans as they entered, Faenia's top advisor and friend Sanea Prevorious. Her pale blue eyes were glued to a map of the ballroom, a seating arrangement. It was hard to tell if she was really looking because her long black hair fell past her eyes when she was looking down. "Hello, dear guests, you'll be sitting at Empress' table along with the Kolinthans when they arrive."

The main entryway to the ball room had granite pillars that touched a sunflower yellow ceiling. Hanging over head were two, two handed swords crossed with a shield over them. The shield bore the Lussengarde crest. The ballroom had a marvelous wooden floor and was spotted with tables that had white tablecloths. On the edges of the tablecloth were gold fabrics. The silverware was real silver. This was a ball with no spared expense, everything was wonderful.

[New Spanishland]

Razonica

The limousine with the flags of New Spanishland soon made their appearance, the guards did their formation on the sides of the vehicle to escort the representatives. Then, the car doors opened and Manuel España, President of the Federal Republic accompanied of his vice president, Juan Carlos Rivas, and finally the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Lewis Hollt. All dressed in relentless tuxedos.

When the gentlemen entered the hall they were met by the Razonican Empress and other members of her family, Manuel was the first on saluting the Empress.

"Your Majesty, it is a pleasure and an honor to meet you, on behalf of my country and my government, please accept this beautiful orchid as a sign of friendship and humility."

[Razonica]

Razonica

The limousine with the flags of New Spanishland soon made their appearance, the guards did their formation on the sides of the vehicle to escort the representatives. Then, the car doors opened and Manuel España, President of the Federal Republic accompanied of his vice president, Juan Carlos Rivas, and finally the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Lewis Hollt. All dressed in relentless tuxedos.

When the gentlemen entered the hall they were met by the Razonican Empress and other members of her family, Manuel was the first on saluting the Empress.

"Your Majesty, it is a pleasure and an honor to meet you, on behalf of my country and my government, please accept this beautiful orchid as a sign of friendship and humility."

Faenia took it gently and sniffed it smoothly. Then she smiled "Very sweet. Thank you. I hope that this flower grows strong and quickly, just as our friendship will." She called for the gardener and handed the flower gently to him. "I want this flower planted in the center-right of the primary garden." He nodded and took the flower to be planted. Faenia then curtsied to the guests and Ymira and Walter some more did their greeting. Faenia called after the guests "I shall be in to start the music soon, I'm waiting for a few more guests. There are many appetizers to try, the shrimp is to die for."

Once again the incoming guests were greeting by Sanea. Sanea ruffled some papers as she flipped through some pages, only to turn back to a previous one and then smiling "Found it. You shall be seated with the Empress also, on the left of the table." Once the newcomers arrived waiters and waitress began walking around with trays of fine wine and small appetizers. The wine was perfectly aged and the food just cooked, everything tasted fresh.

[Meritocratic Conglomerate]

​Two black armored SUVs escorted the front and back of the limousine. On either side of which wore the proud white and green insignia of the Republic. Mounted Conglomeration flags fluttering at attention in the cool breeze. Behind the tinted windows were three of some of the most pivotal gears in the RMC's political machine.

As the trio of imposing armored vehicles made their way towards entrance secret service agents sent ahead to secure the entrance ran to flank the door. Stepping out into the evening light in a simple black suit and bow tie combo stood the President of the self-titled Meritocracy, John Egbert. Smiling the same smile that took the foreground of his campaign posters, he stepped out into the circle of guards. Fit and in his early 40's he was one of the better looking leaders of the Republic. Likewise was the Republic's second in command, Vice President David Strider in an equally simple suit and bow tie. Unlike his ravenette political partner the blonde seldom smiled, more comfortable adopting his trademark a serious ever-scrutinizing look. In contrast to the two understated men was the eye-catching Secretary of State, Rose Lalonde, in a dark-red, off-the-shoulders, V-neck dress with yellow designs. At opposites with the Vice President, but in line with the President she sported a movie star smile as she was assisted out of the car by one of the agents.

With their guards forming a loose phalanx of armed men in suits, they began their stroll towards the palace. Upon entering the hall as to not encumber their bosses and elected leaders the men began to disperse in seemingly random directions but managing to always maintain within eyesight of their charge. Greeting them was the ever-gracious Empress. "Empress, what a pleasure, may I say it is to finally make your acquaintance. You're more beautiful in real life than you are on television." The president greeted. "Meechum" inquired the secretary of state to one of the guards, bringing forward a black bottle. Giggling "Please a token of our appreciation n behalf of our Republic. One of the finest of the wineries of the RMC, perhaps we could break it out later."

[Kolintha]

Very often, when it came to events such as this, it was common to hear a Kolinthanese delegation approaching quite a long time before one actually saw it. There was always the distinctive sound of studded black boots on metal, and the clattering and tinkling of chimes on belts. And then there was the chorus of yells as the little formation turned a corner and at last came into view.
The Empress' ten guards marched before her. Every single one was a mirror image of the next, and each wore distinctive blue uniform, of a shade that caught your eyes and held them there, and a silver spiked helm, polished to perfection and adorned with the Imperial coat of arms. Their marching skills were unrivalled, with every foot moving in unison. Behind them, the woman herself swept along, looking and feeling very smug. She wore her trademark black suit, and her hair was tied back in a tight ponytail.

She and her entourage COULD of course have allowed the driver of the pristine government car to let them out right in front of the Royal Palace, but as Valhyldra always loved to tell her children, advisers and anybody else who would listen, the Kolinthanese way of entering a celebration was always the preferable way of entering a celebration.

"Mother..." Katya groaned. Her daughter. She walked sluggishly beside her mother and toyed with her dark hair, 'There was literally no point in bribing him to let us out on the corner when we could have driven that extra twenty meters. I understand you want to make an impression but really..."

"I shall for once have to agree with you, Katyanka." Iabiron chipped in. He was a handsome lad; her other child, and the eldest of the two, though he was also right at the bottom of the list of people Valhyldra would have liked to take the throne. A notorious eccentric and extreme nationalist. He, much like the Khornerans, carried a sword at his hip. A rather elaborate swept hilt rapier. And his eagerness to use them whenever disputes arose where a rather massive reason for Valhyldra's unwillingness to give the idiot power.

Valhyldra ignored them, and looked back to give a sharp nod to her throne adviser, Vlazhmiya, her right woman, and the short, sweaty man who walked next to her - the Kolinthanese ambassador to Razonica. Vlazhmiya was looking rather stunning, in a white-and-blue dress and flower-adorned bonnet that complemented her wirey golden hair rather well. Kornir, the ambassador, was in his finest tuxedo. That is to say, it was slightly less tight and stained than his other tuxedos. The Foreign Policy Office, Valhyldra had decided, when she had first met the man in person a few days before, really needed to screen it's candidates a little better as far as presentation and appearance was concerned...

As they approached the Empress, who was at that moment waiting for all the guests to arrive, the marching guards parted like a wave and the delegation came to the foreground. Valhyldra stepped forward and looked down at her fellow Empress. They had met in person once before, though only briefly, but it was only now that Valhyldra realized she was quite a bit taller than the young woman before her. Excellent.

"Hello, Empress." She said. Her eyes were cold, though her lips were curled into a friendly smile, "I am Empress Valhyldra, from Kolintha. You may address me as 'Your Imperial Majesty'."

She then stepped aside slightly to allow Katya, Iabiron, Vlazhmiya and the diplomat to make their own greetings. The sword-bearing prince made a great show of bowing and kissing the Empress' hand, while the princess gave a surprisingly firm handshake.

[Razonica]

Faenia smiled as the leaders from RMC showed up. She took the black glass bottle in both hands and thanked them wholeheartedly "This is a wonderful gift and I'm sure it's no easy task to perfectly blend a wine to much a flavorful taste. I can hear the Kolinthese walking down this way, once they are inside I shall open the ball. Faeries curtsied and her siblings once again greeted. Sanae guided the RMC a table nearby the Empress'.

When the Kolinthese Empress approached she curtsied and smiled "Hello and welcome to Razonica. Now that you have arrived I can begin the ball. Please follow me." As Faenia lead the newcomers in it was easy to see that Ymira now sported a rapier. Its silver hilt was encrusted with blue diamonds. She eyed the prince's rapier as he passed.

Faenia walked to the center of the room where a violin rested. Gracefully, the young Empress picked it up and began to play a low and beautiful melody. Her face was set in one deep in thought. The music rang clearly through the room and slowly got louder. It was slow and graceful but now as more violins joined in it became more energetic. Perfect ball music written by Faenia herself. With one last note Faenia lowered the violin before putting it down. Then she went to join the guests.

[Nerotysia]

The Empire of Razonica
17 July 2015

Again, the selection cycle reared its ugly head. Again, Nikita Pipenko scurried from event to event, ignoring the exhausted cracking of his bones until he could afford to look at them. Again, Aleksey found himself perpetually tired in his father's presence.

Every two years - it seemed far too often to Aleksey. It was the strain of garnering votes, pulling public favor from its fickle shell, pleasing all the right people in the Party; the strain which not only dragged on Nikita's bones but expanded to fill any room he occupied. The dinner table, growing less fulfilling by the day, creaked under the weight of the strain. The bare echo of silverware were Alek and his mother's only company when his father left to take a call. When he was younger, Alek had calculated that his father took approximately 2.6 phone calls per dinner during the selection cycle. At least, when he was there to eat dinner.

The Nerotysian limousine rolled black as charcoal in the husky night through the streets of the third random nation Nikita had visited. His peacemaker image required lots of photographs in lots of far-off monarchies which mattered very little to the Nerotysian government. Alek shifted in his seat and grumbled, his head pillowed on an arm which itself was propped against the window. Watching the lights flash by, Alek muttered something.

"What'd you say?" asked his father with almost-genuine curiosity. This was rare.

"I said we're probably late." Alek was sharp and irritated.

"It doesn't matter." Nikita went back to talking with Viktor. Viktor Kutikov, his eyes locked on the Chair of the Political Committee, had been even busier than Nikita. He was right; it didn't matter. This trip was not intended to woo the Razonicans - it was intended to woo Nerotysians.

Alek told himself he had only joined his father on this trip to see Katyanka. He repeated the sentiment in his mind with a sour vengeance, a vehement and all-consuming venom. However when he first arrived the back of his mind was cluttered with boyish hopes of rose-colored father-son adventure. Of course that hadn't happened. Instead, Alek had been whipped from one publicity stunt to the next, waiting in the car for eternities while his father charmed the world. At this point, he knew the innards of this damn limousine better than he knew his own skin.

Finally they arrived. Nikita Pipenko and his sultry son, Viktor Kutikov and his dazzling daughter, and two personal bodyguards.

The Nerotysians' arrival was met with a chorus of camera flashes that erupted the night into a sudden clamor. Nikita smiled; Viktor smiled; the bodyguards guarded bodies, Aleksey hid his face with careful angling. They were late, in fact, but it really didn't matter; the reporters hardly cared. Surrounded by a phalanx of immense dark-clothed men, the party burst into the ballroom like a grand tsunami of spilled oil.

[Razonica]

Faenia was quite suprised to see communists come to her ball. She planned for it but didn't think they'd show themselves. Odd. But judging by all the photos they want to make the communists look better than me. I must play my cards right. Faenia smiled and curtsied as she walked over to the communists "Hello and welcome to Razonica. The ball's just begun so there's no need to worry. The food will be served soon but first I thought it's be nice to let all my guests talk and enjoy te other's company. In the mean time there are small foods and wine being taken around. Please try something it's all very good."

Faenia walked around the ball greeting and talking to many guests but she was really waiting be approached by other leaders.

Meanwhile Ymira had drifted toward the Kolinthese prince. "I see that you wear a rapier. Do you duel with that blade or is it for show? With my blade, here, I can rely on my footwork so I can concentrate on my blade work."

[Khornera]

In the Hydra's masterplan, Razonica was an important playing piece. While Razonica's membership in the Grand Alliance was reassuring of it's loyalty, the Khornerans were rather displeased with Razonica's recent endeavors. Most notably, Alexiandran ships now docking in Razonican ports, which infuriated the Khornerans to no avail. To allow TITO into the dominion of the Grand Alliance, was a great insult in the eyes of the Khornerans. It was for this reason that they had been working on rewriting the GA charter to become more comprehensive, and leave little room for interpretations which differed from theirs. Yet for now, they had to deal with the consequences.

Fortunately, the possibility of a political marriage was still a very realistic prospect. If the young Empress could be wooed into such a union, the Khornerans would have a great deal of subtle influence on the affairs of Razonica. Their loyalty would be assured. For that purpose the suitors had already unattached themselves from the larger part of the Khorneran delegation which so far had not yet mingled. At the forefront walked the young prince, flanked by the two other suitors. They approached Empress Faenia.

"My Empress, I do hope we're not interrupting you?" prince August spoke.

---

Being staunch allies, it was always costumary for the Khornerans and Kolinthans to speak at least briefly at an event such as this. In light of this, the young Khorneran princess Adrastia decided to approach her Kolinthanese counterpart, princess Katyanka. While her father, flanked by the Archminister and two guards, approached the Kolish sovereign. They almost completely ignored the Nerotysians whom they passed, except for a polite affirming nod and a glance that seemed to indicate nothing but contempt.

"Empress Valhyldra. Always a pleasure!"

---

Princess Adrastia was dressed in typical Khorneran fashion, easily recognizable by it's extravagance. She wore an elegant black dress embroidered with a Hydra in golden threads. Her lower arms were covered by white silken gloves, and on her right hand she wore a signet ring of house Vi Luxias. Her brown hair was tied in a ponytail which hang over her left shoulder. She carefully appraised Katya before she finally approached her, trying to pin down her personality by simply looking. She knew Katyanka would probably be very different from her mother, her scandalous affair with the Red Romeo was a testament to that, yet wether this was a good thing remained to be seen. Either way, her 'antics' had piqued Adrastia's interest.

She extended her hand to the young princess. "Salutations. I am princess Adrastia vi Luxias, you may have heard of the name. I don't believe we have met?"

[Kolintha]

Iabiron

Iabiron looked up at the brat who had just spoken to him. He felt a strong urge to spit into her spoilt little face.
"Yes, I do duel. Sadly, I am in the minority. But what reason do you, a woman, have to ask me this?" He said, keeping his chin high and his eyes set coldly on Ymira. Then he smiled.
"An amazon, eh? Lovely, just lovely. What is with this sudden trend? Women belong away from bloodshed, and you - you're practically a child!" He continued, his smile turning into a sneer.

Valhyldra

The Empress looked towards the approaching Khornerans, smiling coolly. The Archking was among them.
"Empress Valhyldra. Always a pleasure!" He said. Valhyldra politely bowed and shook the gentleman's hand. She had met him on a few occasions, and found him to be amiable enough. A good politician and a good leader, no matter how much she despised the fundamentalist side of his nation. She respected him - which was rare for Valhyldra, for she had a tendency to be openly disrespectful to just about every world leader she met.

"You too, Archking. I must ask - and I hope you are not the sort of man who spreads things like these around - but what is your opinion of the Razonican Empress?" She began. She hoped she could secure the Khorneran's trust. The closer Kolintha got to Khornera, the more it could afford to stop depending on the loose cannon that was Alexiandra. Khornera was predictable, reliable, but upsetting it was suicide, so she wanted to make sure that the Archking viewed Kolintha as it's one true ally, even when the Razonicans, with their ports and their resources, failed them. Valhyldra needed to try and sow the seeds of doubt that would distance Khornera from Razonica just enough that Kolintha would be able to remain by the Royal Federation's side no matter what happened.

Katyanka

Katya had tried to make her way to Alek almost as soon as he had entered, but had held back due to boiling mass of journalists that surrounded him and his father. It was frustrating. She'd never seen him look so down, and she wanted to go over there, slap him, hold him close and tell him everything was going to be aright.

But then the Khorneran princess approached, and she was trapped. She couldn't flee. Mother would kill her if she did...
Her counterpart was dressed in the stereotypical elaborate Khorneran fashion, and Katya had to admit she was quite pretty. She looked slightly older than Katya herself, and walked with an aristocratic swagger that reminded Katya strongly of her own mother.

The princess extended her hand, and Katya shook it firmly.
"Salutations. I am Princess Adrastia vi Luxias, you may have heard of the name. I don't believe we have met?"
"I certainly have heard of the name. And I don't believe we have, no. I am Crown Princess Katyanka Espargyr. 'Tis a pleasure to meet you."

[Nerotysia]

Aleksey

Nikita waited to respond to the Razonican queen until the cameramen had positioned themselves properly. Shaking her hand firmly, he projected his voice across the room, so that every microphone could catch it.
"Yes, I do apologize for being late," he said with a toothy smile, "Forging these all-important connections should not be jeopardized by tardiness!"

That would be the extent of their communication. Nikita had wanted to leave immediately after the photographers were finished, but Alek had convinced him to stay. Nikita's heart did not completely die during these cycles.

As soon as he could Alek broke free of his suffocating circle of bodyguards, and at once he made a beeline for the one face at the ball he recognized. His ribcage seemed to expand, pop and crackle in the sort of happiness he had not felt in quite a while. His vision narrowed until all that was in his sightlines was her. As a result, he nearly didn't notice the person she was talking to. He had opened his mouth for an ecstatic greeting when the Khorneran caught his eye. His mouth snapped shut, and his stomach revolted at the sight of the decadent Thallassic princess.

"H-hello," he stuttered, his voice a deadpan to hide his contempt.

[Razonica]

Faenia

Empress Faenia was in the middle of a large group of women. As was customary in Razonica, unmarried women ages 18-32 (usually the latest age a Razonican woman marries) would talk among themselves and wait for unmarried men to step forward to ask them to dance. However, they could say no if they weren't interested, so the men tried to be as creative as they could. There was a time a man dressed as a knight and "fought off" a "dragon" to "save" the woman he wanted to dance with. Another time a man rode a bicycle around the circle of women. Although he was just hoping for people to laugh, he was surprised when it actually worked.

Faenia was flanked by two women in ball gowns. To an innocence on looker they were her friends but if one actually studied them more closed it could be seen they stopped men from talking to Faenia unless they let the man do so. However, Faenia waved the two women away and she looked at the three gentlemen before her. "You you are not interrupting anything. I'm guessing you would like to speak with me. I've only heard your titles and I'm sure that's all you've heard of me."

Ymira

Ymira looked back at the boy with a smile that showed she was amused. "Is it not customary for your nation's noblewomen to also learn sword skills? Besides Razonican women have been in combat for decades. Women are capable of doing what men can." Ymira's smile now turned to one of teasing "Or perhaps men are afraid that a woman might show them up?"

[Khornera]

Regis vi Luxias

Regis gave Valhyldra an appraising gaze, trying to discern her motivations. The question she asked was a bit too unsolicited to have no motives behind it.

"Well..." the Archking began, before taking a sip of his wine. "It's not terribly polite to pass judgement's on one's host. Yet if I had to say one thing, I'd say I'd think she is in essence a benevolent person, if a bit naive perhaps. Yet she decided in favor of the Grand Alliance, which indicates vision at least. Which is more than I can say for the Graditorans." he smiled politely.

"Now, from your choice of words however it is clear you may not share my optimism. Speak freely."

---

The Suitors

Of the three, it was lord Coriolanus which stepped forward. "Your Imperial Majesty, I am Coriolanus vi Tyr. It is truly a pleasure to finally meet you in person, for I have heard much good about you.", he extended his hand, which was covered in a white silken glove embroidered with a golden monogram. "Please, would you honor me with the first dance of the evening?"

---

Princess Adrastia vi Luxias

Adastria had to control herself from laughing at Aleksey's graceless introduction. The corners of her mouth curled into a composed grin. "Dearest Aleksey Pipenko, I presume." she said dryly. Instead of extending her hands to introduce herself she clawed them around the glass of wine she held.

[Razonica]

Faenia

Faenia took the hand of Coriolanus vi Tyr and said "Certainly." As they went to the dance floor she began to speak "I must say you have me at a disadvantage, you have heard much about me but I have not heard much about you. Tell me, what are the things you have heard of me and the thinks you would wish I hear if you. And of course, tell me the reason you've taken interest in me."

[New Spanishland]

Manuel

The night was splendid, the Razonicans were offering a magnificent ball. Around, people danced and conversed, and the atmosphere was very pleasant.

While his companions chatted with other guests, Manuel drank a glass of wine. "Hmm... Delicious, one of the best I've tasted. Definitely a good harvest. He thought.

As he turned, he noticed that one of the brothers of the Empress Faenia, Walter, was there. "I should say hello".

Manuel then approached and greted the young prince.

"Greetings Your Majesty, I'm Manuel España, President of New Spanishland. Is a pleasure to meet you and a honor to be here" Manuel said with gentleness and kindness.

Juan Carlos Rivas (Vice-President)

The vice president was talking to the President of the Meritocratic Conglomerate .

"Is a honor to meet you, Mr Egbert. I am Juan Carlos Rivas, Vice-President of New Spanishland. How are you?"

Lewis Holt (Minister of Foreign Affairs)

The minister Holt, decided to approach to Nikita Pipenko.

"Mr. Pipenko, is good to see you here! I'm Lewis Holt, Foreign Minister of New Spanishland, how are you?"

[Vonnen]

It was at that moment that the trumpets sounded, a small entourage of King's Guards carried the banner of the royal family and the flag of the kingdom, the vonnenian delegation was finally at the ball. The razonican guards made their salute to His Royal Majesty, The King Soren III who was accompanied by the Royal Advisor, Sir Anton DeBlin, the Foreign Minister, the Duke Lionel Roux VI, the Trade Minister, Franklin Steir and his wife, Magalie Robiecheaud.

It was a beautiful night in The Royal Palace, the other major leaders danced, drank and laughed, "I'm very honored to be invited, I would like to meet in person our host" Said Soren to his wife.

"Faenia Lussengarde. The Empress of Razonica, dear" Replied his wife.

"Yes! I've heard that she's only 22, but I'm sure that she will do a fantastic job, anyway our monarchist society needs fresh and young ideas. All for the best of our countries" He said, very sublime.

"Well spoken dear"

The king gathered his companions and said:

"Listen, I want you all give their best tonight, be gentle and humble as always, put the name of our country high. Agree?"

"Yes, Your Royal Majesty" They said in unison.

[Kolintha]

Valhyldra

"Well..." Valhyldra began, "How shall I phrase this...I'd say you are right about her naivety, and it is precisely that which worries me. I don't think she is malevolent, nor do I believe her loyalties lie elsewhere, but let us take the rather recent influx of Alexiandran vessels into GA waters. She has gone behind our backs and allowed TITO to expand it's sphere influence - to the extent that it overlaps our own, no less. I feel she is perhaps too drunk with optimism to consider that she is being manipulated by...ah." She coughed and lowered her voice slightly, "Unsavoury characters."
"Anyhow, you are right. It is most rude to speak ill of one's host, but I feel my concerns are not ungrounded."

Katyanka

Katya looked uneasily between the Khorneran and Alek. She didn't need to even look into either one's eyes to feel the burning contempt that raged between them like a fire storm. The atmosphere was contagious, and it spread quickly through the air.
"Riiiiiight." The crown princess said, quickly walking in between them, "I take it you two haven't met? Well ah...Alek, this is Princess Adrastia vi Luxias, of Khornera and Princess...well nevermind, you are quite right. This is Aleksey Pipenko."

There was a bitter hush. Katya looked from face to face, trying to sport a friendly, encouraging smile. She grasped for something she could use to break the awkwardness. She found nothing. So instead she looked to her mother for inspiration. And as Mother always said when teaching her precious little heir about the joys of diplomacy; "When in doubt, give up and try again later."
...
Something about that quote had never seemed all that inspirational to Katya as a child.

"Alek...right now is not the best time to talk, okay? Please understand. I have...ah..." She whispered, turning her head slightly towards Alek and trying to find the right words to use, "...girl talk to attend to. Yes, that's right. Girl talk. So...later...okay? I'll text you as soon as I have a spare moment."

Without waiting for a response from him, and with subtle guilt tearing at her heartstrings, she returned to her initial conversation with the Khorneran.
"Ah...sorry about that. He just wanted to say...hello..." She stuttered, trying to regain her composure, "So Princess, what brought you to speak to my humble self? And might I say, you do look stunning tonight..."

Iabiron

The Prince looked at Ymira coldly.
"There is in fact a disturbing trend in my nation for poor, weak women to take up arms. Which does not in the slightest mean I support such barbarity. A woman's place is at the hearth and home, manning the home front if you will. It has worked for other nations, and if only my damned Mother and her Courtly goons were not so stubborn and closeminded it would work for us!"
He took a sip of his wine, making sure to take as long as possible before continuing his sentence, for maximum annoyance.
"Regardless, you're hardly a woman. You're a girl. A child, practically. So I can hardly see from what basis you claim to have an authority on the rights of mankind. Shouldn't you be...texting away or chasing lads like all the other girlies your age do?"

Vlazhmiya

Vlazhmiya's bony fingers tapped away incessantly on a table, as they always did when the Throne Advisor was irritated or concerned. She had come along planning to act as Valhyldra's second in command, using her diplomatic skills to bring around Kolintha's allies and pacify it's enemies. Of course, knowing her luck, nobody had even recognised her. It was obvious why - she avoided the publicity the crown got, and even the Chief of Foreign Policy got more screentime than the serious-faced throne advisor many saw standing to attention behind the both beloved and hated Empress. But it was still awful.

And now she was draining glass after glass of water to try and get that horrid, sweaty little ambassador satisfied. He'd tried to get her into a drinking competition, but she knew better than to disgrace herself like that when the Empress' reputation was on the line. But regardless, he was proving resilient, even after having drank over 20 shots.

Somebody liberate me from this tedium before I kill this fool.

[Razonica]

Ymira

Ymira laughed "I turn many lads away. I haven't found the right one yet but I'm in no rush. Away I thought it was the boys who chased the girls. Well regardless, you say your mother is close minded. No. That's not true. You are close-minded because you think that a woman shouldn't be able to do what she wants with her own life. Women have rights as humans, because we are actually people, to have freedom and to have the ability to make their own life. If you cannot see that women are equal to men you're dwelling in the last century. My country has proved women can do what men can so why not just believe it?"

Walter

Walter turned to face Manuel and shook the other man's hand. "Glad to have you here sir. I'm glad you're enjoying the party. Please tell me about your trip her- hold on good sir, I'll be right back. Come if you want.

Walter was always focused on chivalry at these balls. He would secretly patrol the guests and make sure no one, specially women, were not being treated unkindly.As Walter mad another pass around a table he saw Vlazhmiya at a table across from the one he stood next to. The man looked happy, and looking at all the glasses possibly drunk. Same for the woman but she was unhappy looking. Walter kicked into gear, this looked very much like this woman was being mistreated. Walter approached the walk and said to the woman "Is this man bothering you ma'am?"

[Khornera]

Regis vi Luxias

"Your words hold truth." the Archking responded. "Her faith in diplomacy is misplaced. Especially now that our adversaries have shown the very imperialism they so arrogantly condemn. Truly it is a sad irony that whereas the GA has remained peaceful as of late, it are the self-proclaimed anti-imperialist whom now invade other countries at will. From Escom this was to be expected, but I expected Alexiandra to at least maintain some weak pretense of ideological consistency. Inevitably, Alexiandra will turn on us, they have always possessed that fickleness that define democracies."

"However", he continued. "With proper guidance, I believe Razonica will be a strong ally. When it comes to her recent associations with TITO, that is problematic. We will need to make absolutely clear that this is unacceptable, both towards Alexiandra and Razonica. Both will need to be disciplined."

---

Coriolanus vi Tyr

Coriolanus spoke quietly, to keep the conversation with the Empress more private. He placed has hand around her waist as they began to waltz. "I have heard many things about you ofcourse. Having ascended the throne at such a young age, and to take on such a burden, is impressive. I also heard about your artistic and poetic inclinations, which is always something to be admired in a person, regardless of status. That alone, is enough to make any sane man take an interest. I myself am but a passionate swordsman. My position has allowed me the luxury to focus entirely on my skills at dueling. With any fortune, I will be able to participate professionally soon enough."

---

Princess Adrastia vi Luxias

Although the clear discomfort Aleksey was in amused Adrastia greatly, she could not help but feel bad for Katyanka, whom seemed like a decent person.

"Ah...sorry about that. He just wanted to say...hello... So Princess, what brought you to speak to my humble self? And might I say, you do look stunning tonight..." Katyanka spoke after she dismissed her Aleksey.

Adrastia quickly changed her posture to something more inviting, rather than the closed position she graced the young Aleksey with. "Well thank you!" clearly the compliment was mainly to change the mood into something more amiable, but it did not go unappreciated nontheless. "And sorry if I put you and... him.. in an awkward position. Believe me when I say that was not my intention." she apologized.

"Regardless, it struck me as a good idea to at least briefly make your acquintance. Seeing as you are destined to become Empress of 'the empire of ice' one day. Although, forgive me for being so blunt, you do not appear to be someone whom would covet such a burden."

---

Caer Malavis Vultus

After his brief and almost obligatory talk with several other foreign dignitaries, the Archminister decided to approach his Kolinthanese counterpart. He could easily spot the distress in her eyes as she was locked in conversation with the drunk ambassador. He pitied her, for he was all too familiar with that look. It was the same look with which he would look at his colleaques whenever he was bothered by the thoroughly unlikable Baron. In fact, the ambassador reminded him a little bit of the Baron. His sweaty, undignified, and corpolous appearance was almost a mirror image of the real deal.

So far the Archminister had avoided approaching the Kolish, out of fear of once again having the entire Khorneran delegation speaking with the Kolish to the expense of all others present in the room. But he figured now was as good a time as any.

"My lady, might I request your presence to discuss matters of state?" he gave no heed to the ambassador disgracing himself, as he was unworthy of even being acknowledged in the Archministers eyes. The ambassador reminded him of the baron too much for that.

[Kastula]

Razonica

Empress Belinda Slayer sat quietly looking into the eyes of Jarls Harrald Falkenberg, and Madelaine Storm wondering about who else was attending the ball. This was the first international event in, which the new Empress officially took part in since taking office. Jarl Falkenberg was impressed that his daughter, was taking the position of Empress seriously but could not help to wonder if she was hiding something from him. He slowly begin to nod his head at her, before speaking "Belinda I can't help shake the feeling, that you are hiding something from me. You are my dearest daughter, but I can not help you if you don't tell me what is going on. The purpose of us being here is to get you image out into the international community.". Belinda just listened to her father for a moment, before shaking her head "No father I am not hiding nothing from you just a little nervous, but I should be fine before we reach the ball. I am just wondering about all who, would be at the ball.".

Jarl Madelaine Storm sat quietly listening to both Empress Slayer, and Jarl Falkenberg talk among themselves for a moment. Suddenly she got the urge to voice her opinion to both of them, but could not help to wonder if they would listen to her on the matter. She begin clearing her throat hoping it, would catch their attention before she started talking "Please excuse me Empress Slayer, and Jarl Falkenberg but if I may we will soon be at the ball. I think we should begin practicing our entrance, before we arrive that we can make a great first impress. We don't have much information on the Razonican empress, there for we have to make sure we don't offend her. Jarl Falkenberg as you are aware the other jarls on the National Central Committee of the Kastulan Federation is counting on this meeting, but first we need this to work smooth.". Shortly after listening to Jarl Storm's concerns Harrald nodded, but could not shake the feeling that his daughter was hiding something from him.

The ride to the ball's location managed to smooth the empress' already shaking nerves, but the way her father was staring at her made her nervous. Suddenly the car came to a stop, before a grand hall which caused the riders to step out. Empress Slayer step out in front of the ball hall, and looked up for a moment "This is a nice ball hall the Razonicans have here, we just may have a wonderful time at this get together. Father and Jarl Storm remember we are not here to talk business, but to have fun for a chance.". Jarl Falkenberg walked up to door for a moment, and opened them before turning to look back his daughter, and fellow Jarl "Alright then let's go in, and meet new international friends.".

Once the door was opened allowing the three to step inside, which give them a clear look at the ball hall. The three walked up to the nearest guard, and introduced themselves "Greetings! I am Empress Belinda Slayer, and this is my entourage Jarls Harrald Falkenberg and Madelaine Storm. We are here to attend the diplomatic ball, but we may be a little late for the opening. Jarl Falkenberg stepped down into the ball room, and was suddenly taking in by the site of it. Shortly after taking in the site he was joined by Empress Slayer, and Jarl Storm who also took in the surroundings. She took a look around the room, and noticed some of Escar's biggest players were in the same room.

[Razonica]

Faenia

Faenia continued to dance with Coriolanus vi Tyr and thought her next words carefully. These men can't possibly have come just because I'm an artist and musician.These men are all of noble or royal blood, it's for politics. I must be careful not to fall into a trap. Faenia laughed "Well you came a ways to find a musician. Surely you have those in your own nation?" Then Faenia changed gears completely. "If we were married what would you do? Move here or ask me to move away? Would you try and do anything political or showing authority in Razonica?


Sanea

Sanea caught Empress Belinda Slayer and her group as they walked into the ballroom. Sanea smiled with surprise and said "My! I wasn't excepting to see Kastulans. Luckily I prepared." Sanea buried her face into her seating chart and flipped through a few pages. Then she looked up and pointed to an empty table. "There's your table Empress Slayer (or Belintha, whichever she goes by), please enjoy the ball! Don't worry about being later, not much has happened."