Dresden Peace Ball (New Earth Only, MT, IC)

by **Edelreich** » Wed Jun 29, 2016 6:29 pm

Dresden Celebratory Peace Ball

Most Illustrious,

By virtue of being the honorable Head of State of your nation I have the privilege of informing you that you have been awarded the opportunity to attend the Celebratory Peace Ball in Dresden at the request of His Imperial Majesty, the Kaiser. Following the cessation of hostilities and military interventions in the Xathuecian state by Edelreich as well as the return of dignity to the European continent with the removal of the illegal Alcasian Regime, the Imperial Household has declared a period of celebration throughout the Empire for no less than three weeks. While most of the affairs are of a personal or national nature, His Imperial Majesty did decree to establish a few celebrations in order to foster goodwill with Europe and the world, along with thanking the nations that participated in the conflict on Edelreich’s behalf.

Located in the city of Dresden within the fair Kingdom of Saxony, the Dresden Castle has been selected to host the occasion. Owned by His Majesty the King of Saxony, a dedicated degree of work was set forth to prepare the castle to receive guests from all around the world and comfortably supply them with all the amenities of home. The Celebratory Peace Ball will only be for an evening's affair, however His Majesty has made accommodations available for up to a week after the event for business or leisure. An itinerary of the occasion is enclosed with this letter.

By extension, this offer is only eligible for the legally standing Head of State; however His Imperial Majesty has permitted the royal families of each applicable nation to be permitted to attend and enjoy the festivities as well.

Harald Alexander von Preußen,
Minister of the Kaiserreich of the Empire of the Edelreich

Dresden Castle,
Dresden, Kingdom of Saxony

“Ah, magnificent!” The elderly man happily exclaimed from the top of the stairs that led down into the ballroom floor. “The chandelier is absolutely the perfect finish to top it off.”

His companion nodded in disdain towards the fixture. “It is quite a nice chandelier Your Majesty.”

“It’s been in use since the late 18th century. Beautiful piece of art.” The Saxon King turned and looked back at his aide, taking a deep breath. He had spent the better part of two days overseeing that every inch of the castle was prepared for the ball. Not a single liberty was going to be taken on his account.

“Is Mathias here yet?” He asked sheepishly, having been so busy with the final preparations to notice if his own liege had arrived.

The aide nodded. “Yes. He arrived just about an hour ago with some of his family. I was busy with the chefs as you requested,” he explained, “so I was unable to see exactly who accompanied him.”

“Then what are we waiting for?” The King exclaimed again, turning to face the doors that lead to the entrance hall. The aide sighed and followed behind his excitable employer as they headed to the front door. “Open the way good sirs,” he yelled to the servants. “Open the doors, they will be here soon!”

The men saluted and pulled open the door, the fresh summer air flowing into the hall. The King ordered his aide to stand awaiting them and handed him a list of each guest's titles and names to announce them by before returning back into the main hall. A few minor guests had already arrived. While the invitation stipulated heads of state only, the Kaiser was generous with supplying invitations and a collection of dukes and lesser nobles had already begun to arrive, some of the earliest coming like the Kaiser did and retreating to their rooms until the ball started.

Standing on the balcony just overlooking the ballroom floor, the Saxon King took one last look at the place he was presenting. The floor was lowered down and connected on two sides by shallow-sloped stairs, rising up to an area that overlooked it and would likely be full of people conversing throughout the night. On the opposite side of him was the entrance to the private areas of the castle, mostly off limits as they contained personal rooms and privacy was a concern. Furthermore the ballroom’s upper level had an exit on the east side that opened into a small garden that was to be available for the duration of the ball.

by **Aeuria** » Wed Jun 29, 2016 7:30 pm

Dresden Castle,
Dresden, Kingdom of Saxony
"It's strange this; playing father's role. I'm not sure I enjoy it." Prince Jean-Pierre said disappointed.

"We are not playing father's role - we are the empire's acting heads of state. You should be more concerned about what people will think has happened." his sister, the Princess Marie scolded; her regency only having been confirmed by the Senate but a few days ago.

After accepting the unconditional surrender of the Tasmaesian rebellion, the Aeurian government was quick to reestablish a heavy imperial presence on the coastal island. With other cities across the Commonwealth in various stages of rioting, the news of Aeurian victory was a bane to protestors and rioters alike. While Emperor Aleksander himself has been absent from public view, his government has moved to further stabilize regions of the Commonwealth. However, Princess Marie's surprise regency has bewildered the population who plead for an explanation from a silent Imperial Palace.

Intense debate ensued within the Regency Council when the Kaiser's invitation was received, most members opposing attendance. After what resorted to a shouting match of threats, Princess Marie secured a majority vote from the normally ceremonial council. Choosing to take her brother, Aeuria's senior Consul, also proved an unpopular choice from councilmen who feared his unpredictable nature. Dissent was quickly eliminated and after a long plane ride, the imperial siblings found themselves in Saxony, smiling at German footmen as they exited their car.

"I love the Saxon's architecture. Quaint yet elegant." Jean-Pierre noted as he lit a cigarette, waiting for Marie to get out of the Rolls-Royce.

"A delight to see your distinctions in architecture were well deserved." Marie laughed dismissively as she passed her brother, walking towards the doors of the hall.

"What? You don't think it's a bit... simple?" the Prince and Consul whined, jogging to catch up.

"All buildings do not need to be covered in marble facades and columns, Jean." she said, rolling her eyes. "You yourself have said before that all the busts and statues freak you out."

The Prince blew smoke at his sister before sticking out his tongue. "You're right - of course. All the gold leaf and reflective stone gets boring after a while. Thank the Alcasians for châteaux!"

Approaching the large doors of the hall, the Princess shook her head again, looking up to admire the architecture free from her brother's nonsense. "Come on now, put on your smile." Marie said, locking arms with her brother. Passing through the arch, an aide declared their names and titles loudly. Jean-Pierre recoiled at the volume of the man's voice, the traditional practice absent from Aeurian protocol, shooting the man an angry glance as the pair entered the room. Smiling, the pair walked further into the hall away from the doors as confused or surprised looking nobles stole glances at the pair.

by **The United Isles of Britain** » Wed Jun 29, 2016 7:52 pm

Dresden Castle, Dresden
"Welcome to Dresden Your Highness." said one of the royal escorts before William and his wife Mary began walking through the castle entrance.

"Do you think Arthur will make a fool of himself in Vancouver?" Mary asked as the pair walked towards the ballroom.

"I doubt it, he's quite capable of making a speech in front of politicians." William responded "At least, if he wants to."

"He better want to. Otherwise I'll be having a few words with him once he returns."

"He'll do fine, for now we have other matters to focus on." he said glancing at the interior of the castle. "I must say, our Saxon host does know how to present the castle to his guests, the decoration is quite something."

"Well I suppose when events like this occur you would want something to show for it. Do we not do the same back in Britain?"

"Touche." William replied as the two entered the ballroom.

by **Edelreich** » Wed Jun 29, 2016 8:06 pm

The King heard the shouting of his aide as the guests of the hour poured into the castle in series, various lesser German aristocrats flocking in droves to the ballroom as the guests already present began to make their own entrance from the other side. The room was filling and servants began to make their rounds as the King headed towards the entrance. He passed by a group of junkers from Posen, nodding and sharing a few words as he recognized one of them from a previous dinner.

“Well, well, well!” He jubilantly said, welcoming both of the Aeurian royals into his castle and creating an obstacle that the other nobles walked by on their way through the entrance hall. “It is a pleasure to meet you both at last; I have only heard the best things of Aeuria from my friends who made it there. Prince Jean-Pierre and Princess Marie, I do hope you enjoy yourselves here. I am Florian von Sachsen, this is my castle, and your’s for the evening.”

Across the way another group of nobles passed, among them the King of Hannover and his entourage of patricians who continued on into the ballroom, one of them stealing a look back at the Aeurians.

“Appears the Aeurians found their way here after all,” the Junker smirked, stopping at the balcony while the Hanoverian King grabbed a wine glass from an attendant. “A pity, I had hoped we might be spared them.”

“Interesting that Aleksander is not with them,” another noted in whispers, “I wouldn’t have expected him to miss this.”

“And Marie is now the regent once more.”

“Peculiar,” the King entered in. “Seems something’s rotten in the state of Aeuria.” The three snickered among themselves.

by **Vanesse** » Thu Jun 30, 2016 4:42 am

Dresden Castle,
Dresden, Kingdom of Saxony

“Well it’s a simple building.” Emperor Lawrence casually said, waiting for the escort to open the doors of their motorcade. Across the way from him in the car sat his wife, Diane, formerly from a well-to-do southern family that Lawrence knew from his younger days as prince. He glared out of the tinted windows of the car and studied the castle as well as the area around it. German, he could clearly see that; while the people in the Edelreich had many different styles, they all ran together in his mind.

“Lawrence, don’t be like that. We’re fortunate enough to have even gotten an invitation!”

“Fortunate? Diane please; they wouldn’t have dared to make a pass at us like that.” Lawrence reasoned. “We were bound for this regardless of what that Kaiser thinks.”

The two looked up as their doors opened, the men outside ushering them onto the street corner and directing them across towards the castle entrance. A large crowd had started to form there, each guest entering in sequenced groups so that their name was read properly. Both of them carried on their way, heading down the path towards the entrance hall.

Diane looked over at her husband, having not forgotten the conversation from before just yet. “Don’t be so rude to the Kaiser, love. You two are related.”

“Related?” He responded in disbelief. “I would scarcely agree. We might share the same House but… I would never consider us relatives. I’m more surprised they didn’t try to declare us a cadet branch years ago.”

“You’re being too harsh.”

“Harsh?”

“Yes.”

“I’m being Vanessian Diane; you should try it sometime.”

The doorman’s sudden shout abruptly ended their bickering, the two being forced inside by a waiting group of German aristocrats behind them.

by **Aeuria** » Thu Jun 30, 2016 8:19 am

"It is a delight to meet you Your Majesty." Marie replied warmly, nodding slightly at the man.

"A pleasure." Jean-Pierre added quickly, eyeing him up with a grin.

"I must apologize for my father's absence; he did so wish to attend." the Princess continued, removing a cigarette case from a pocket of her brother's military-style jacket.

"What with this regency business going on, I can't say I blame him." the Prince laughed, lighting his sister's cigarette. "His proverbial plate is quite full."

"But allow us to convey His Majesty's warmest regards to you and the Edelreich." Marie schmoozed with a smile. "In these confusing times, we believe it is everyone's best interests to ensure stability through cooperation. Tonight is certainly a lovely way to begin such cooperation." the Princess said longingly as she glanced around the grand hall and its rich decor.

"Quite so." Jean-Pierre noted, taking a long pull from his cigarette as he stared at the Saxon King. "Say, where can a prince get a drink around here?"

by **Federal States of Xathuecia** » Thu Jun 30, 2016 8:55 am

Dresden Castle, Dresden

The Imvaro stepped out of the limo.

"Ahh..." yawned Erves Navam as he stepped out.

"My serene Imvaro, are you ready?"

"Am I ever Commander? I am prepared for this, for showing the new Xathuecia to all. But are you?"

"I helped the old regime out of national pride. Do not think I will be judged by the standards of the group I was forced to serve."

"Eh! I did not mean to offend you but you were and still are the Xrat High Commander. Handle yourself."

"Of course my serene."

They walked down the short path and entered the castle. Simplistic but elegant. Quite the opposite of the Imvaro's home. Still, something to be respectful of. As the group of Xathuecians entered, he kept his eyes on his aide. They had called him foolish for choosing to make Lito his aide, already had hurt him removing him from his prison in the Alps. But this man had shown Xathuecia the true world and despite his crimes, he would guide Erves. What would they think of bringing a past dictator to the meeting? A question he had asked himself many times but he cast it off.

As the man annouced their names, he smiled as he entered. He had brought his younger sister as well as his mother. The Commander was going to remain on the premises but this was not his ball. He was not a Head of State. But the aide would stay, Lito knew how to deal with people like this.

"Skallvia" · by **Maurepas** » Thu Jun 30, 2016 3:09 pm

Dresden Castle,
Dresden, Kingdom of Saxony

Jocard sighed as he drove the limo towards the entrance of Dresden Castle. He didn't belong here, the castle's exterior, though simple by more wealthy standards, was far too elegant and fancy for his tastes. 'Card, as he tended to be known around the card tables, was more used to the gambling parlors of the casinos. Brightly lit and gaudy as they tended to be, there was a certain working class air to them, at least to his senses, that Europe simply lacked, all the more exemplified by Dresden Castle itself.

He wasn't even really sure why he was here, probably throwin us a bone for the border dispute, he thought. Though it was certainly minor news to the world at large, the Edelreich was friendly enough to offer a cordial invitation to its neighbor from across the world. Jocard preferred the old ways, however, and thought he should be back home plying his true trade, rather than assigned as the King's assistant. He instinctively reached up to scratch at the fleur-de-lis tattooed on the side of his neck. Ostensibly he was here to tend to his Head of State's needs, in reality, for better or worse, he was here to keep an eye on the King of Maurepas for his true employers...

As the limo pulled to a stop in front of the valet attending Dresden Castle, King Louis I and XX, called such as he was the first Louis to rule Maurepas, but to traditionalists he was the twentieth Louis of the House of Bourbon, was let out by his assistant and he proceeded to enter the Castle itself. Having spent most of his life when he younger in Europe, the King was delighted to see the interior of the structure. That he was finally getting some recognition of his status made it all the sweeter.

His wife, Marie Marguerite on his arm, he gracefully entered the hall as his name was announced to the participants. Despite emphasizing the European trappings of their colonial origins, most of the governmental buildings of Maurepas, including the royal mansion, were built in a more 19th Century Plantation style as opposed to the palaces and castles of the Old World. It somehow felt a more royal setting to Louis as well as reminding him of his youth.

Intending to schmooze with the other royals and their relatives in the decorated interior he tried to flag down a drink.

by **The Noiharan Union** » Thu Jun 30, 2016 3:24 pm

Dresden Castle, Dresden

As the limo stopped, the Noiharan Supreme Leader stepped out of vehicle followed by his aide-de-camp Yuuko. Before he proceeded to walk inside the palace, he viewed the building.

"It's a pitty we don't have such buildings in Noihara, don't you think?" Akio said.

"To be honest my Leader, I don't think we need such palaces in our nation. They are an unnecessary luxury and a theft from the people which were forced to pay for this" Yuuko replied taunting.

"What did you expect? It's only typical for monarchies but still the building has it's charm."

"I don't even understand why we have to attend to this. What do they even celebrate? The death of innocent people because of their imperialistic wars?"

"We did nothing throughout the whole conflict. To attend this ball is the only thing we can do to at least pretend concernment. Also we should be glad that we received an invitation."

"I see, guess it can't be helped then" Yuuko replied while the two walked into the ballroom.

by **Edelreich** » Thu Jun 30, 2016 5:51 pm

The King smiled and reassured them that the absence of their father wasn’t a detriment to the affairs of the evening, along with conveying his good wishes to them. He shook his head and gestured towards the doorway that lead into the ballroom where most of the crowds had gathered.

“Right this way my good sir. There’s plenty of servants about and you only need to flag one down for your wishes to be met.” He reasoned. “I’ve taken the liberty of stocking a wide variety of drinks for the evening; Aeurian gins, fine wines, even some of our best beverages are to be made available for the night. All for the benefit of those included.”

He looked up, seeing that another selection of foreign guests had entered and whose names were called.

“Regardless, I must bid you adieu for now. There’s many other guests arriving and I don’t want to seem rude. Please; enjoy yourselves.”

The Saxon permitted a final smile and headed inside towards the ballroom entrance, where he greeted another collection of junkers who had just arrived before laying his eyes on Noiharan guests who had just arrived.

“Welcome to Castle Dresden Großführer Akio,” the King said as he moved to the side for the others to continue passing by. “It is a pleasure to meet you at last. I have heard things of Noihara but I’ve never the luxury of actually seeing for myself. It’s a full-time job in Saxony. I’m Florian von Sachsen, the host of this ball.”

Meanwhile the orchestral band located deeper into the ballroom began to mark their presence with music, beginning with a carefully structured sheet book of slow and mellow pieces, their gentle nature undertoning the conversations in the room until all guests had officially arrived. The King of Hannover and his entourage remained at the balcony overlooking the stairs down into the lower area, his keen eyes keeping track of every guest that entered.

“Is that the Vanessians?” One of them asked.

“Figures they’d be here. Harstettzers are all alike whether they’re from the Americas or Africa.”

The King chortled, taking a sip from his glass and watching in sequence as the next three foreign guests were announced. He made a mental note to avoid the Xathuecians for the evening, the doorman suddenly reminding him that he probably couldn’t even remember or much less pronounce their names. The Maurepasans and Noiharans considerably interested him more. Both were of very different location and origin and had little to do with Edelreich, although he did concede that Maurepas had dealt with them not too long ago.

Noihara on the other hand was a significant outlier. Like Maurepas they likely knew that the ball was for more conventional nations; they were clearly out of place among the ancient monarchies and liberal republican states. That couldn’t really be contested. However it did intrigue the Hanoverian King with how they carried themselves, drilled to the step and dedicated to their singular purposes regardless of how foreign they might seem on the world stage.

Tonight would be interesting, he thought, taking another sip from his glass.

by **Avagra** » Thu Jun 30, 2016 7:33 pm

Dresden Castle, Dresden

It was a great palace. Nothing could match the Avagran symmetrical design though but a good piece of work.

"Are you fine Batba?"

"Yes, just not feeling well because of-"

"Stop reminding her Jinao!"

"Fine mother. No need to yell. Its a peace ball for goodness sake's!"

"Who cares?"

The family walked inside the building just in time to hear the announcement by the King of Hanover. They looked around and already saw many wandering around and conversing.

"Ohh...wine! I'll be off!"

"Wait mother, please!"

"Don't worry about her, she knows how to act properly."

"I suppose. The Noiharans are here. Our quaint neighbors. Let's go."

They approached the King as he spoke with the neighbors of Avagra. At the same time, the elderly lady was flagging down servants and drinking wine. As she did, she did not notice that she had wandered into the midst of the Aeurians and Edelians. How could she though? Chasing the servant with the right wine had been hard enough.

by **Friderlands** » Thu Jun 30, 2016 10:40 pm

Dresden Castle, Dresden

King Michiel III hurredly stepped out of his limo the instant it arrived. He was very late, and ran up to the door whilst simoltaneously fixing himself up.

His wife bickered "Oh we're fine, the party isn't over we'll have plenty of time."

"Well I'm sorry that I wanted to arrive on time to an event containing nearly every head of state the world over." he said sarcastically

"It isn't like you're attending a world peace conference that would decide the fate of the entire planet."

"Still, how we act could have at least a small impact on our relations so I don't think being late is the best idea."

Entering the ballroom she spoke "There's nothing we can do about that now, so best to not worry about it."

by **Aeuria** » Fri Jul 01, 2016 11:57 am

Dresden Castle, Dresden
The imperial siblings smiled at the King as he departed, Jean-Pierre already throwing his arm in the air for a servant.

"What a charmer." the Prince noted. "He's certainly quite friendly for a German."

"And was graceful enough not to broach the subject of father. I like him." Marie added, leading the pair towards a well-dressed servant holding a platter of assorted drinks. As the Princess eyed up every glass considering her options, Jean-Pierre cleared his throat.

"Just take the champagne, one of those Mongols is coming over here." he muttered, deftly snatching a flute of something bubbly.

Marie swore, perhaps too loudly, before grabbing a glass of wine and again locking arms with her brother. Quickly stepping behind an equally thirsty group of Junkers, the pair avoided the Avagran Khan's mother; a social snub they weren't nearly afraid of as the notion of a conversation with her.

Crossing the hall, the Princess Regent set her sights on the King of Maurepas, Louis I and, she understood, the XX. Determined to ask the King about his unusual regnal name, the Prince and Princess approached the monarch, nodding in respect and deferred beginning any conversation to Louis' higher title.

by **Federal States of Xathuecia** » Fri Jul 01, 2016 12:40 pm

"My serene, it appears the Brits seem a bit out of place."

"An eye that never stops watching Lito. Let's go."

The group of Xathuecians walked over as Erves' younger sister followed. Their mother had been caught speaking with some Edelian nobles it seemed but she could handle her own. A German she was though Xathuecian she had become.

"King William and Queen Mary, how nice to see you? I hope the blood shed during Xathuecia's troubles can be put aside between our two nations. Very saddened that our people fought each other, something I hope to heal."

by **The United Isles of Britain** » Fri Jul 01, 2016 3:07 pm

"We should greet the King of Hanover, your mother would be livid if you didn't" Mary said chuckling as William sipped from his drink.

"Her? Angry at me?" He said laughing. "I'll have you know that she wasn't completely German despite her... obvious possession of her father's personality." he said noticing the Xathuecians walking towards them "I suppose we'll speak with him later, looks like some of the Xathuecians ares approaching us.

Despite the conflict being resolved in Xathuecia, there was still some bitterness left over from the ordeal, particularly surrounding the siege of Genoa and the Admiral behind it who would soon be tried for war crimes in London. While the British welcomed the change of wind in Europe, it would still take some time for Britain to fully adjust to the changes and aftermath of the recent events.

"It is pleasure." William said giving a slight nod. "As far as I'm concerned, we are willing to work with the, your, new Xathuecian government as Europe moves past the recent events that have transpired." he said noticing some of the other royal families arriving and speaking with each other. "I trust that you are adapting to your new position well?"

by **The Noiharan Union** » Fri Jul 01, 2016 4:32 pm

Akio was a little bit suprised that the Saxon King actually spoke to him. He did not consider himself as an completely unimportant leader on the world stage, certainly not, but he knew that during this event he was an outsider. Yuuko stood next to him watching the King Florian closely. In her eyes all nobles were thought crimminals, nothing but imbeciles resting on their inherited titles for which they did nothing to deserve them. Akio on the other hand was fascinated by the nobility although like Yuuko, he was against the inheritage of titles and power.

"The pleasure is all mine, your Highness," Akio replied while inclining his head politely. "The person next to me is Yuuko Nakamura, a close advisor and friend of mine. She also serves as the chief of staff of the Noiharan army."

"It's an honor to meet you, King Florian von Sachsen. Excuse me if I am using your title wrong but we don't get to interact with monarchs a lot in Noihara." Yuuko said as she kept a friendly attitude up to hide her true thoughts.

"You truly have a wonderful castle here. I always admired the saxons for their style. Generally speaking all the germanic cultures are something very special. I would be pleased to someday welcome you in Noihara as well to show you our nation." Akio continued.

by **Edelreich** » Fri Jul 01, 2016 6:44 pm

“King Florian will do,” he said succinctly. “I wouldn’t expect you to call me ‘Your Majesty’ or any such thing like it. This castle has been in my family for generations and the Houses before us kept it maintained; after all it just wouldn’t do to put on a bad show, would it?”

He tapped his foot smiling, watching the guests begin to mingle and surround the upper area of the ballroom while the band continued to play.

“Yes well I think that would be rather nice.” He said. “Maybe sometime when the Reich is in friendlier waters with our neighbors I’ll find the time to visit. Always was interested in Asian artwork. Maybe His Imperial Majesty would also be interested; it’s been years since a state visit.”

Across the way the Hannover King watched with little regard for the commotions around him, his friends still continuing to judge and analyze each guest in attendance until another group of nobles, clearly some among them of finer class, approached him and shook hands.

“Franz!” He exclaimed. “Why I must say it’s been nearly six months since we last talked. How are you?”

The Hanoverian simply nodded. “It has been a while, hasn’t it? Not since the dinner. I’m well, Moritz. Well as always.”

“Wonderful. I can’t help but notice that your lovely wife isn’t in attendance. Something happen?”

“Most terrible thing friend. Here she was so vehemently dedicated to coming that she went and caught something dreadful.”

“I hope she’s alright.” His friend said.

He smiled. “Of course. Just a minor little thing in the way. She’ll be as spry as a hare in a few days time.”

by **Federal States of Xathuecia** » Fri Jul 01, 2016 7:30 pm

"Of course. It is going to take some time to break into this position, a monarchy Xathuecia has long forgotten. But I think I'll be fine. Still, lingering sentiment to..." paused Erves as if he was going to say something disgusting,"Idi..."

"Pleasure to meet you your Majesties."

The younger sister to the Imvaro spoke shyly. She had come under a lot of stress, and it was a lot for a girl who was barely 16 yet. She had undergone extensive security measures and briefings. Practically trained to be the acting ruler if her older brother was killed, which was not a faint possibility with threats still commonplace.

"How are things in Britain and around the Commonwealth?"

As they spoke, their mother, a pure German, walked over to the King of Hanover to speak.

"A proper German noble. Its been too long since I have seen one. How are you?"

"Skallvia" · by **Maurepas** » Fri Jul 01, 2016 9:58 pm

The delicious liquid poured down the throat of King Louis as the Maurepasan enjoyed the smooth carbonation in the beverage. Though he was probably expected to have something a bit more regal, the bars in New Orleans had given him a taste for the simple Rum and Coke. "Merci" he said simply to his assistant and without a second glance moved inwards towards the center of the growing crowd. Jocard was a good man, but it was clear the man wasn't enjoying his current assignment. Have to put in a word when we get back home, he thought.

The King had a mental shrug as he was about to ascertain the whereabouts of his wife when suddenly two of the other guests nodded for his attention. The King put on his best smile, this was a party afterall and he wanted to be known as an amicable Head of State, "Comment ça va, mon ami?" he said, returning their nod with a deep one of his own.

by **Miurin** » Fri Jul 01, 2016 10:30 pm

Dhiaga, Miurin - Tribal Council Meeting

Elizabeth placed her fingers on her temples, rubbing in a calming clockwise motion.

"Look! I can't take everyone, so could you all please cease your clambering for one minute!"

Elizabeth was not one for shouting, but it was neccessary for this. Today, an invitation from the King of Saxony in Dresden arrived to request Miurin's Head of State to a Peace Ball. Normally, Elizabeth, being the High Elder, would simply appear for a day or so to show good faith, then be back on the red eye to Dhiaga. Much to the chagrin of Elizabeth, however, she was allowed a plus one.

"But High Elder, there must be a way for us all to attend? It didn't specify only one, and I'm sure a flippin' castle can support all of us!"

"Oh, come off it, Catherine!" A small faced woman chimed in, and Elizabeth silently praised her. "There's twenty of us! That would not only be rude, but damn near impossible. High Elder Hamilton, might I make a suggestion? Take Addie. She's finally fourteen, and needs to rub elbows with political leaders, if she'll ever make it as Elder-in-training. Also, it'd be a good mother/daughter trip away from all of this."

Elizabeth never considered taking her daughter, especially on a business trip. She does need the exposure, Elizabeth thought, and it will open up her name to other countries.

Addie appeared through the door. "Mother, there's a group of girl scouts out here..." Everyone looked at Addie, a new found respect on their faces. Addie stared at them, confused. "What?"

Dresden Castle
Dresden, Kingdom of Saxony

Walking up the steps of the enormous castle, Elizabeth yanked on her hastily bought evening gown, disdain for formal affairs seeping out of her like steam.

"Mother," Addie coaxed, putting her arm through Elizabeth's, "stop fidgetting. You look fine, we belong here, and both of us represent our proud collection of tribes. Miurin is counting on us. Also, you look good! Flaunt it, and have fun."

Elizabeth glanced down at her too-mature-for-her-age fourteen year old, and smiled. She was right. Just schmooze a little, don't step on anyone's toes, and hopefully this will open up a wide assortment of political relations unheard of for Miurin. She let out a heavy sigh, walked into the immence castle, and heard the doorman bellow out their names - Elizabeth Hamilton VIII, High Elder of Miurin and her daughter, Adara Hamilton. She could get used to this.

by **Edelreich** » Sat Jul 02, 2016 6:25 am

The King looked up from his conversation, annoyed that somebody had decided to enter themselves into it without a small thought for them. He gazed the woman up and down for a moment trying to find her angle before speaking.

“Snug as a bug dear.” His friends laughed. “Rather found the time to come here and indulge in the delicious wines they serve,” he sarcastically continued, “after all the only real way to enjoy a ball is dangerous alcohol content and good company.”

“You always were a drinker.”

“I never stopped!”

He took a sip from his glass and looked back at the woman. “Of course, where are my manners?” He put the glass down and did a small bow. “These are a few of my compatriots madam. The boisterous one here is Moritz, King of Bohemia would you have it. The quiet one there is the King of Hesse, Luis. Oh, and I am the master of Hannover, but please, call me Franz.”

Across the room the doors to the private rooms of the castle opened, the young Crown Prince Wilhelm passing through and being overtaken by a group of eager Junkers. He dealt with each of them quickly and shook a few hands, eventually peeling off down the room with a few of his friends in tow.

“Looks most of father’s guests have already arrived.”

“Quite so Will.”

“Thomas, you could at least try to remain official in public.”

“A thousand pardons Your Highness,” he jested. “I have sinned. Bring out the whips!”

“I don’t know why I still talk to you.” Wilhelm replied, greeting a few young aristocrats as he passed by. “Who’s all here? I didn’t get the chance to overlook the invitations.”

Thomas nodded, discreetly pointing across towards the entrance side. “Right there; that’s the Xathuecians. Talking to the British King, William.”

“I’m somewhat familiar. He have a kid?”

“Arthur I believe. Didn’t come.”

The Crown Prince stopped and leaned on the balcony edge, his friend fetching a drink from a passing servant. The two watched around the room for a few seconds, the Crown Prince being new to the business of state affairs still.

“Ah.” He said after another moment. “Makes sense. Who else?”

“Maurepasans, Vanessians, Avagrans, uh… oh the Noiharans are here too. So are the Aeurians.”

“Aeuria?” Wilhelm quickly asked. “Who showed up?”

“Well the Emperor is apparently not among them. From what I gathered, something’s amiss in the Empire and a regent was appointed. Jean-Pierre and Marie came instead.”

“Marie? Really? I can’t see them.”

“Look center, see the Maurepasan - uh Louis XX or something like that - they’re talking to him.”

“Oh. So they are.” He faded off, continuing to watch from across the room while his friend informed him of the happenings of the ball.

by **The Noiharan Union** » Sat Jul 02, 2016 9:30 am

"Understandable and there's no need to hurry for that now," Akio responded. "The top priority of all nations in Europe, even the world, should be to finally overcome the diplomatic differences of the past in order to start the cooperation for the sake of peace and progress. I am sure, that one day our children and grandchildren will be grateful for this. I wish my country could contribute to this, uh... project, but sadly our geographical and diplomatic situation makes it hard for us to do something. Anyways, for the moment we should enjoy this evening." Akio said with a gentle smile.

by **Aeuria** » Sat Jul 02, 2016 12:29 pm

Dresden Castle
"Ça va très bien, merci. Et toi?" Marie replied warmly, smiling at the monarch.

Aeuria and Maurepas had minimal relations with one an other; the Australasian empire distant from the North American coastal kingdom. While the two states enjoyed a stable trade relationship, their diplomatic was lacking. Neither the Prince or Princess had ever visited the King's country but understood it was significantly French in culture.

"Your Majesty." Jean-Pierre nodded. "A pleasure to finally meet you. If you'll allow me, I must ask about your name. Louis the first and 20th?" the Prince asked inquisitively, tilting his head slightly.

Princess Marie did her best not to roll her eyes before scanning the room for any friendly faces. Noticing a pair of doors opening on the upper level of the hall near the balcony, she glanced back at the Maurepasan king as he spoke; waiting to see who would emerge. After a moment, her gaze again drifted towards the balcony. Leaning against the edge of the balcony was the Crown Prince Wilhelm speaking to the King of Hanover. Raising a single eyebrow, the Princess watched distantly as Wilhelm surveyed the guests. To her surprise, she met his gaze. Without thinking, Marie took a long drag of her cigarette, staring at the Crown Prince as she exhaled; her plum lipstick staining the white filter.

"So how do people refer to you then? Louis the First and 20th? Louis the First?" Jean-Pierre droned, oblivious to his sister. "I have the problem myself; being both a Prince and Consul. People are never certain which to address me by."

Princess Marie returned to the conversation, gently kissing her brother on the cheek before excusing herself. Taking a deep breath she slowly made her way to the bar, her trail of smoke floating lazily towards the ceiling. Looking at Wilhelm briefly she smiled before taking a seat, turning to order a glass of champagne from the barman.

by **Edelreich** » Sat Jul 02, 2016 5:05 pm

Wilhelm had made his way across the ballroom and stopped just short of the King of Hannover, who was still in conversation with the German outlander, and smiled to the man and his fellows.

“Good to see you Franz. All of you actually. Happy that you made it.”

“Of course Your Highness,” he replied. “Wouldn’t have missed this for the world.”

The Prince murmured and retreated from the group, not wishing to intrude on the conversations of people decades older than him. He stopped towards the edge where the stairs to the depressed area was, the music from the orchestra carrying better there and giving him a moment of inspired clarity.

His friend quickly followed behind him, nonchalantly handing his glass back for a servant to take.

“Will. The Princess was definitely watching you.”

“Coincidence.” He dismissively replied.

“Same as you were. See?! There she goes again.”

“Stop it. Nothing of the sort is - oh you’re right.”

“Hm. Told you.” He smiled contently, watching the Aeurian break away from her group and head over to the bar - or rather a group of tables pressed against one of the back walls covered in bottles and guests with a houseman working it. “She’s over there now. By the bar setup.”

“I see.”

Thomas sighed. “Aren’t you going over there?”

“What? Oh no, I’d do nothing of the sort. That… would be incredibly out of place.”

“Go Will. Besides, you haven’t gotten a drink yet you dry prig.”

The Prince sighed and reflexively dusted himself off, walking across the ballroom and eventually arriving at the makeshift collection of tables and cushioned chairs that served as the bar. He ordered a quick and simple drink from the barman and sat down across from Marie at her table.

He took a drink and swallowed it slowly before saying anything.

“Lovely evening isn’t it? Evidentially the Sachsens put a lot of work into planning this ball, at least I’d say so.”

by **Aeuria** » Sat Jul 02, 2016 8:28 pm

Princess Marie averted the Prince's gaze as he neared the tables, instead looking at her brother across the hall. With his unprofessional background, she was still impressed by Jean-Pierre's picking up of politics and diplomacy. Despite the wild and excessive lifestyle he cleaned up quite handsomely; both in manners and role. While the Prince complained about the stuffiness and rigid collar of his regal military jacket, the uniform suited him well. She smiled before returning her gaze forward.

Seeing Wilhelm approaching caught her off guard. Instinctively smiling as he sat down, Marie poked her cigarette once into an ashtray before discarding it; the large purple jewel she wore on a finger catching the light. "Oh, indeed. Truly a spectacle." the Princess wryly replied. "You will have to forgive me, at this point all these palaces begin to look the same to me." she laughed softly. "Though I suppose there are worse complaints to have." Taking a moment to pick up her champagne, Marie pulled at the slack in one of her evening gloves. "I can always appreciate the distinct beauty of the Reich, however." she added, looking at the Prince before taking a sip from her glass. "Truly a shame our fathers and countries seem to distrust each other. Fortunately, I am the Crown's representative here." a small smile forming at the sides of her face. "We have much, much more to gain from closer relations and... bilateral cooperation, than we have to lose, wouldn't you say?" the Princess Regent asked as she returned her glass to the table.

Dresden Peace Ball (New Earth Only, MT, IC)

Dresden Peace Ball (New Earth Only, MT, IC)

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