Day of Kings (IC/Signup first)

[New Mushroom Kingdom]

"You honour me, Your Excellency," Baron Brice replied, bowing his head, "I take it you are a representative of Emperor Napoleon II?"

Lady Gemma Brice had managed to ditch Major Horke on a group of unsuspecting foreign officers who were now deep in conversation, she was looking around now for a distraction of her own, preferably one of similar age to herself.

Elizabeth said "You honour me also. As for what I am doing, the Minister of Foreign Affairs specifically selected me to attend and hopefully become the first Mushroomian Ambassador to this country. While I am and will be representing His Imperial Majesty, it is not presently needed because they are also in attendance."
Meanwhile, Napoleon could feel his ears burning as he watched Elizabeth talk with the man about him. He wondered what talking with him would be like.

[Kyrenaia]

Even from a distance, New York's Long Island Palace was a sight to behold - a merging of modern materials with older style and beauty. But up close, and disregarding the two armoured cars standing at the entrance, it was even more beautiful, if one asked Princess Fara, Princess of the Ilkhanate of Megido, one of the six Ilkhanates, that made up the Sultanate of Kyrenaia.
The car, not exactly a limousine, but a nice car nonetheless, had come to a stop at said entrance, where a man in a suit and a few heavily armed guards expected them and other guests. None of them was arrogant enough to believe, that the King of the Great New England Confederation, GNEC for short, was expecting solely them on such an evening, where they were decidedly not the only guest.
Princess Fara was a young woman, blonde, but with the bronze skin of a Kyrenaian, her red eyes sparkling like rubies. She was in her mid-twenties, with 1.81 metres relatively tall, a very active Princess as a Lieutenant of her university's Swimmer Team (and deserving the position, as competition proved time and time again) and it showed with her slim, yet curvy build. And curves she had, which were only emphasized by her dress, a dark blue dress with a deep V-neck, teasing the contents, but not showing them, and a back of the same cut, the long skirt, reaching the ground, with a side-slit. She wore silver heels, which killed her feet, but that was another story as she bared it with a small smile. She wore only one piece of jewelry, a necklace with a pendant in the form of a rose, it's petals made of ruby and of the same colour as her eyes, bringing them out.
While she was helped out of the car by the driver, Prince Damir of Utica, a man in his mid-thirties, was helping the other woman of this evening out of the car. He was a small bit taller then her, but one would not see that as she wore heels and he didn't, but he had broad shoulders, his head crowned by short brown hair, his smile rougish, as his golden eyes only had eyes for the person he helped out of the car. He was, as it was appropriate, dressed for the occassion, in full white tie, deciding not to wear his old uniform from his days in the Special Police Service as that usually made people feel uneasy.
The young woman he helped out of the car was his daughter, Princess Aurelia bint-Damir, sixteen years of age, a blonde with her hair openly falling over her back, combed with great care, but not styled, her skin darker, but not as dark as her father's or Fara's, her eyes blue and sparkling like sapphires. For a sixteen year old young woman, she was quite a looker as well, well developed, but not quite finished yet, as well as another sportswoman, mounted archery and swimming, something her dress only emphasized, light blue to bring out her eyes. It was a form-fitting dress, a little bit on the garnment-saving side, with a short hemline, a choker-collar holding it up along the otherwise bare back. A bodice supportted the sweetheart neckline of her dress, which hinted to many things, but showed nothing, the skirt being relatively short, but with a side slit.
For both Princesses, it was not the first time abroad and Damir, being the oldest of the three, was the most experienced in such occassions - he would steer them clear of troubled waters. There had been debates if they should bring personal escorts with them, a handmaiden for each Princess and a pair of the Tabardariyya for the Prince, but they decided against it. It was rude to bring heavily armed men into the palace of a fellow monarch, mainly as it would undermine his authority as the host and be a sign of mistrust...
...as one of their missions was to open diplomatic relations with the GNEC and other nations in attendance, it would not be the best course of action to insult the man. Besides, all three of them could defend themselves and their host seemed to have everything under control.
It promised to be a beautiful evening with nice people.
Damir was in the centre, arm linked to Aurelia's as Fara stepped to their side, smiles bright as the sun on their faces as they faced the things to come. It would be a wonderful evening.

[Xiaxal Xarn]

"You honour me, Your Excellency," Baron Brice replied, bowing his head, "I take it you are a representative of Emperor Napoleon II?"

Lady Gemma Brice had managed to ditch Major Horke on a group of unsuspecting foreign officers who were now deep in conversation, she was looking around now for a distraction of her own, preferably one of similar age to herself.

After greeting the King, Gwendolyn moves into the room.Seeing a noble looking woman gazing around the room Gwendolyn collars a waiter carrying a tray of champagne and walks him with her.
"Good evening I am Princess Gwendolyn of Xiaxal Xarn, and myself and my friend here." she nudges him, and he holds out the tray of glasses filled with a good Bollinger "would be delighted to make your acquaintance, however he has to work." she drops two silver coins on the tray "so you are left with me."

[Vionna-Frankenlisch]

"Ah yes?" Baron Brice replied, "I would be delighted to meet His Imperial Majesty later. How are you finding the premises? I find them quite magnificent."

Elsewhere, Lady Gemma was approached by a well-dressed woman who was dragging an unfortunate footman behind her. This woman introduced herself as Princess Gwendolyn of Xiaxal Xarn and dismissed the footman with a pair of shiny silver coins. "Honoured, Your Highness," Lady Gemma said, giving a respectful curtsy, "I am Lady Gemma Brice, daughter to the Baron Brice."

[Xiaxal Xarn]

"Ah yes?" Baron Brice replied, "I would be delighted to meet His Imperial Majesty later. How are you finding the premises? I find them quite magnificent."

Elsewhere, Lady Gemma was approached by a well-dressed woman who was dragging an unfortunate footman behind her. This woman introduced herself as Princess Gwendolyn of Xiaxal Xarn and dismissed the footman with a pair of shiny silver coins. "Honoured, Your Highness," Lady Gemma said, giving a respectful curtsy, "I am Lady Gemma Brice, daughter to the Baron Brice."

"Lady Gemma" she bows "So I am here to socialise and perhaps find a new lover, as well as mayhap gain a little more diplomatic skill. This is after all only my second visit outside of the City of Xarn and i am still getting used to you up-worlders.."
she pauses "If I am being rude I apologise, as we live underground it is a common terminology for those on the surface."
She sips her champagne
"So may I ask if all parties start this quietly?"

[New Mushroom Kingdom]

"Ah yes?" Baron Brice replied, "I would be delighted to meet His Imperial Majesty later. How are you finding the premises? I find them quite magnificent."

Elsewhere, Lady Gemma was approached by a well-dressed woman who was dragging an unfortunate footman behind her. This woman introduced herself as Princess Gwendolyn of Xiaxal Xarn and dismissed the footman with a pair of shiny silver coins. "Honoured, Your Highness," Lady Gemma said, giving a respectful curtsy, "I am Lady Gemma Brice, daughter to the Baron Brice."

Elizabeth smiled and looked around at the architecture some more. It did look very grand. Despite being a traditional-looking grand palace, it adhered to modern architecture with the heavy use with steel and glass on the outside, and this modernity extended to the interior design. After her gazing was done, she responded to the good Baron "The architecture's certainly good, very unique with this blend of a traditional grand royal palace with modern building materials, structures and mechanisms. It is certainly quite different from our own Imperial Palace, which is built to resemble Princess Peach's Castle except in another location. Glad to hear you will be meeting Napoleon, however you may be surprised who exactly the present Emperor is."

[Vionna-Frankenlisch]

"I wouldn't know," Lady Gemma replied, "I have attended one function back in Magna Europa and this is my first visit to another region. The Duchess of Kimberly's ball I attended in Vionna started quietly as we were one of the first few to arrive, the event livened up, of course." The young noble girl looked left to right and asked, "Did you have any type of person in mind?"

Baldwin was somewhat taken aback, "What do you mean, who he is? You've intrigued me now..."

[Xiaxal Xarn]

"I wouldn't know," Lady Gemma replied, "I have attended one function back in Magna Europa and this is my first visit to another region. The Duchess of Kimberly's ball I attended in Vionna started quietly as we were one of the first few to arrive, the event livened up, of course." The young noble girl looked left to right and asked, "Did you have any type of person in mind?"

Baldwin was somewhat taken aback, "What do you mean, who he is? You've intrigued me now..."

"Ah also for myself this is only my second Ball outside of Xarn. As to type no not really, as long as they are interesting, there is nothing worse than a pretty looking but dull male, ugly & interesting is always better."
she takes out a small cigar case, holding several pale coloured cigars, she offers Lady Gemma one.
"They are from level 6, who have established a new strain of tobacco, it has almost a vanilla taste"
she lights one and draws deeply on the smoke.

[New Mushroom Kingdom]

"I wouldn't know," Lady Gemma replied, "I have attended one function back in Magna Europa and this is my first visit to another region. The Duchess of Kimberly's ball I attended in Vionna started quietly as we were one of the first few to arrive, the event livened up, of course." The young noble girl looked left to right and asked, "Did you have any type of person in mind?"

Baldwin was somewhat taken aback, "What do you mean, who he is? You've intrigued me now..."

Elizabeth wasn't surprised, She said calmly to Baldwin "Sir, have you happened to notice the little boy accompanying me?"

[Semparia]

Semparia, embarrassed at being late, due to arriving in the wrong area, greets everyone one before settling in, and giving out gifts.

[Vionna-Frankenlisch]

"My god..." Brice muttered, just loud enough for Elizabeth to hear. "You can't mean it?" He added, surprised, confused and still a little bit unconvinced.

---

Gemma looked from side to side, "Actually, my father doesn't allow me to smoke..." She leaned in as if a child telling a secret, "But thank you, I think I will." She added, taking one of the off-white cigars. She giggled, saying in response, "You'd like our Major Horke, he's devilishly interesting but simple looking. Don't tell him I said that." Truth be told, Gemma would have loved to see Horke married, and the foreign princess seemed exotic and enticing, exactly the kind of woman Horke would be interested in. Perhaps entertaining the notion that she'd be able to match the two together, Lady Gemma added, "He isn't just an army officer, he's the heir to the Harkins of Rindbourough." She leaned in again and whispered, "And Lord Rindbourough doesn't have long left in him..."

Much to her surprise, Gemma turned to see Horke approaching, he bowed to Lady Gemma and again to the princess. "Your Royal Highness, Princess Gwendolyn," Gemma introduced, "Major Elias Horke of the Royal Airborne Corps, bearer of the Cross of Romulus."

[New Mushroom Kingdom]

"My god..." Brice muttered, just loud enough for Elizabeth to hear. "You can't mean it?" He added, surprised, confused and still a little bit unconvinced.

---

Gemma looked from side to side, "Actually, my father doesn't allow me to smoke..." She leaned in as if a child telling a secret, "But thank you, I think I will." She added, taking one of the off-white cigars. She giggled, saying in response, "You'd like our Major Horke, he's devilishly interesting but simple looking. Don't tell him I said that." Truth be told, Gemma would have loved to see Horke married, and the foreign princess seemed exotic and enticing, exactly the kind of woman Horke would be interested in. Perhaps entertaining the notion that she'd be able to match the two together, Lady Gemma added, "He isn't just an army officer, he's the heir to the Harkins of Rindbourough." She leaned in again and whispered, "And Lord Rindbourough doesn't have long left in him..."

Much to her surprise, Gemma turned to see Horke approaching, he bowed to Lady Gemma and again to the princess. "Your Royal Highness, Princess Gwendolyn," Gemma introduced, "Major Elias Horke of the Royal Airborne Corps, bearer of the Cross of Romulus."

Elizabeth smiled and looked down towards the child and softly spoke, at the same volume as the Baron "I mean exactly as I say. my Baron. May I formally introduce you to His Imperial Majesty Shroom Emperor Napoleon II?'
Meanwhile, Napoleon was smiling and looking up happily at Baron Brice's face. He wondered what would happen next.

[Xiaxal Xarn]

Gemma looked from side to side, "Actually, my father doesn't allow me to smoke..." She leaned in as if a child telling a secret, "But thank you, I think I will." She added, taking one of the off-white cigars. She giggled, saying in response, "You'd like our Major Horke, he's devilishly interesting but simple looking. Don't tell him I said that." Truth be told, Gemma would have loved to see Horke married, and the foreign princess seemed exotic and enticing, exactly the kind of woman Horke would be interested in. Perhaps entertaining the notion that she'd be able to match the two together, Lady Gemma added, "He isn't just an army officer, he's the heir to the Harkins of Rindbourough." She leaned in again and whispered, "And Lord Rindbourough doesn't have long left in him..."

Much to her surprise, Gemma turned to see Horke approaching, he bowed to Lady Gemma and again to the princess. "Your Royal Highness, Princess Gwendolyn," Gemma introduced, "Major Elias Horke of the Royal Airborne Corps, bearer of the Cross of Romulus."

Princess Gwendolyn smiles and lights the cigars.
"Well any man that is devilishly interesting, I would most like to meet. I take it the House of Rindborough is one of noble history?"When Gemma turns her head Gwendolyn looks over and has to hold in a giggle when introduced. If it wasn't the Great divine giving life a nudge. She gives Horke her most winning smile and curtsy' deeply, before offering up her hand to be kissed.
"Why Major Elias Horke , we were just discussing the fact that we poor ladies were being neglected by all the handsome men, and then like a sliver of masculinity you come to our rescue. Did I hear correctly that you are part of the Airbourne Corp, and a holder of a valorous award? Coming from a nation that dwells underground I would be fascinated to hear tell of your adventures."

[Vionna-Frankenlisch]

Baron Baldwin Brice

Baron Brice recoiled slightly in surprise before regaining his senses and bowing his head, removing his top hat in a sign of respect while the soldiers behind him presented their carbines in royal salute. "Your Imperial Majesty," Brice said to the young Emperor, "I am Baldwin Brice, Baron Brice and His Imperial Majesty, King James' representative at this wonderful event." He looked about in a surprised state of thought, "How fares your Imperial Majesty?" He asked.

---

Lady Gemma Brice ~ Major Elias Horke

Horke kissed Princess Gwendolyn's hand and blushed slightly as a result of her fond comments. "The Airborne Corps, yes. I'm sad to say I've had few adventures, your Highness."

Lady Gemma looked up at Horke, her face one of disappointment, "Major..." She said, "Let's not be too modest. Tell her about the Ladlin Ridgeway!"

"Oh... Well, I suppose that was a bit hairy," Horke replied, looking back to the Princess, "It was during Operation Towton. A strike force of Airborne troops had been hastily mobilised for the Prodavan Sovereignty Crisis and we were deployed outside Ladlin, a village in Northern Prodava, near the border to Teutonberg. The plan was to occupy locations all over the Prodavan-Vionnan border to draw troops away from Agrea and Kundaki, I volunteered because I had a beloved cousin at Hill 451 and I wanted to feel like I was doing... Something. Anything! Anything that could have helped her. I figured that supporting this operation would be the best way."

At this point, Lady Gemma had fetched drinks for the group, behind her trailed footmen carrying fold-out chairs. The group sat down and took their drinks while Horke continued his tale.

"I was in command of a battalion of the Royal Pathfinders, attached to the 12 Para Brigade, we dropped over Ladlin while the majority of the Brigade dropped in and around Loukussa. Loukussa being a much bigger and more important position than Ladlin. I had my boys positioned in slit trenches atop a ridge, to our back was the main road towards Loukussa so we were the rearguard for 12 Para, kind of insulting considering the Pathfinders are the King's best reconnaissance units available and operate as Light Infantry, not Regulars." Horke leaned in, to suggest his story was reaching the climax, "So obviously, we were the boys that got hit worst when the Prodavan Twenty-Eighth Division attacked. We had enough ammunition to stock a division when the Prodavan advance begun, by the end of the third day we had just about enough for a summer pigeon shoot. Five times they sent nought but the best infantry Thralkeld could muster, and five times we repulsed them."

It was clear now that Horke was fully engrossed in retelling this particular tale, one that any Royal or Imperial Pathfinder could tell you were true. "They came at us like they did in centuries long passed, huge drums clattering away, horns blaring and huge moon-shaped banners fluttering in the breeze. They advanced towards us, screaming prayers and battle-cries, declaring their love for their heathen god. They'd get within one-fifty metres, for we couldn't spare the ammunition to fire from further away after the first two attacks, and then run at us. They'd drop left and right while their artillery pounded the ridge and those mortars of theirs played havoc with our slit trenches. On the fourth attack, they actually reached us. I had a sabre, the regular one issued to Infantry officers, it took quite a bit of effort to pull from the sheath on my back but I eventually yanked it free."

Horke began tracing his finger along a heroic looking, handsome scar that adorned his right cheek. "That's when I got this, a Prodavan bayonet thrust for my head and I happened to move it just out of the way while pulling my sabre from its sheath. Missing me was the last mistake that poor bugger made..." He grinned. "We pushed them out, the attack knocked the wind out of us but it gutted what they had left. The only thing they could muster for the fifth attack was the poor bastards that they'd conscripted on the way. Brandishing machetes, Kalashnikovs and a ridiculous array of old Colonial rifles they came running at us. I don't think they would have had less of a chance if they'd left their guns behind."

Horke sat back in his chair and finished his brandy, still smiling. He had reminisced and, hopefully, impressed...

[Semparia]

Making the Li's out to be the leaders of the most important nation, Atleast based on overall size, Janice Spencer goes to greet them, flanked by two guards, "Hello, it is a pleasure to meet you."
Edit: ignore this, I'm pretty sure they aren't participating anymore

[New Mushroom Kingdom]

Baron Baldwin Brice

Baron Brice recoiled slightly in surprise before regaining his senses and bowing his head, removing his top hat in a sign of respect while the soldiers behind him presented their carbines in royal salute. "Your Imperial Majesty," Brice said to the young Emperor, "I am Baldwin Brice, Baron Brice and His Imperial Majesty, King James' representative at this wonderful event." He looked about in a surprised state of thought, "How fares your Imperial Majesty?" He asked.

---

Lady Gemma Brice ~ Major Elias Horke

Horke kissed Princess Gwendolyn's hand and blushed slightly as a result of her fond comments. "The Airborne Corps, yes. I'm sad to say I've had few adventures, your Highness."

Lady Gemma looked up at Horke, her face one of disappointment, "Major..." She said, "Let's not be too modest. Tell her about the Ladlin Ridgeway!"

"Oh... Well, I suppose that was a bit hairy," Horke replied, looking back to the Princess, "It was during Operation Towton. A strike force of Airborne troops had been hastily mobilised for the Prodavan Sovereignty Crisis and we were deployed outside Ladlin, a village in Northern Prodava, near the border to Teutonberg. The plan was to occupy locations all over the Prodavan-Vionnan border to draw troops away from Agrea and Kundaki, I volunteered because I had a beloved cousin at Hill 451 and I wanted to feel like I was doing... Something. Anything! Anything that could have helped her. I figured that supporting this operation would be the best way."

At this point, Lady Gemma had fetched drinks for the group, behind her trailed footmen carrying fold-out chairs. The group sat down and took their drinks while Horke continued his tale.

"I was in command of a battalion of the Royal Pathfinders, attached to the 12 Para Brigade, we dropped over Ladlin while the majority of the Brigade dropped in and around Loukussa. Loukussa being a much bigger and more important position than Ladlin. I had my boys positioned in slit trenches atop a ridge, to our back was the main road towards Loukussa so we were the rearguard for 12 Para, kind of insulting considering the Pathfinders are the King's best reconnaissance units available and operate as Light Infantry, not Regulars." Horke leaned in, to suggest his story was reaching the climax, "So obviously, we were the boys that got hit worst when the Prodavan Twenty-Eighth Division attacked. We had enough ammunition to stock a division when the Prodavan advance begun, by the end of the third day we had just about enough for a summer pigeon shoot. Five times they sent nought but the best infantry Thralkeld could muster, and five times we repulsed them."

It was clear now that Horke was fully engrossed in retelling this particular tale, one that any Royal or Imperial Pathfinder could tell you were true. "They came at us like they did in centuries long passed, huge drums clattering away, horns blaring and huge moon-shaped banners fluttering in the breeze. They advanced towards us, screaming prayers and battle-cries, declaring their love for their heathen god. They'd get within one-fifty metres, for we couldn't spare the ammunition to fire from further away after the first two attacks, and then run at us. They'd drop left and right while their artillery pounded the ridge and those mortars of theirs played havoc with our slit trenches. On the fourth attack, they actually reached us. I had a sabre, the regular one issued to Infantry officers, it took quite a bit of effort to pull from the sheath on my back but I eventually yanked it free."

Horke began tracing his finger along a heroic looking, handsome scar that adorned his right cheek. "That's when I got this, a Prodavan bayonet thrust for my head and I happened to move it just out of the way while pulling my sabre from its sheath. Missing me was the last mistake that poor bugger made..." He grinned. "We pushed them out, the attack knocked the wind out of us but it gutted what they had left. The only thing they could muster for the fifth attack was the poor bastards that they'd conscripted on the way. Brandishing machetes, Kalashnikovs and a ridiculous array of old Colonial rifles they came running at us. I don't think they would have had less of a chance if they'd left their guns behind."

Horke sat back in his chair and finished his brandy, still smiling. He had reminisced and, hopefully, impressed...

Napoleon looked up at Baron Brice. He smiled and said "Hello Baron Brice. I am doing fine. Have you seen how huge this room is? The roof is so high up. You seem nice, I like that I have met you."

[Xiaxal Xarn]

Horke kissed Princess Gwendolyn's hand and blushed slightly as a result of her fond comments. "The Airborne Corps, yes. I'm sad to say I've had few adventures, your Highness."

Lady Gemma looked up at Horke, her face one of disappointment, "Major..." She said, "Let's not be too modest. Tell her about the Ladlin Ridgeway!"

"Oh... Well, I suppose that was a bit hairy," Horke replied, looking back to the Princess, "It was during Operation Towton. A strike force of Airborne troops had been hastily mobilised for the Prodavan Sovereignty Crisis and we were deployed outside Ladlin, a village in Northern Prodava, near the border to Teutonberg. The plan was to occupy locations all over the Prodavan-Vionnan border to draw troops away from Agrea and Kundaki, I volunteered because I had a beloved cousin at Hill 451 and I wanted to feel like I was doing... Something. Anything! Anything that could have helped her. I figured that supporting this operation would be the best way."

At this point, Lady Gemma had fetched drinks for the group, behind her trailed footmen carrying fold-out chairs. The group sat down and took their drinks while Horke continued his tale.

"I was in command of a battalion of the Royal Pathfinders, attached to the 12 Para Brigade, we dropped over Ladlin while the majority of the Brigade dropped in and around Loukussa. Loukussa being a much bigger and more important position than Ladlin. I had my boys positioned in slit trenches atop a ridge, to our back was the main road towards Loukussa so we were the rearguard for 12 Para, kind of insulting considering the Pathfinders are the King's best reconnaissance units available and operate as Light Infantry, not Regulars." Horke leaned in, to suggest his story was reaching the climax, "So obviously, we were the boys that got hit worst when the Prodavan Twenty-Eighth Division attacked. We had enough ammunition to stock a division when the Prodavan advance begun, by the end of the third day we had just about enough for a summer pigeon shoot. Five times they sent nought but the best infantry Thralkeld could muster, and five times we repulsed them."

It was clear now that Horke was fully engrossed in retelling this particular tale, one that any Royal or Imperial Pathfinder could tell you were true. "They came at us like they did in centuries long passed, huge drums clattering away, horns blaring and huge moon-shaped banners fluttering in the breeze. They advanced towards us, screaming prayers and battle-cries, declaring their love for their heathen god. They'd get within one-fifty metres, for we couldn't spare the ammunition to fire from further away after the first two attacks, and then run at us. They'd drop left and right while their artillery pounded the ridge and those mortars of theirs played havoc with our slit trenches. On the fourth attack, they actually reached us. I had a sabre, the regular one issued to Infantry officers, it took quite a bit of effort to pull from the sheath on my back but I eventually yanked it free."

Horke began tracing his finger along a heroic looking, handsome scar that adorned his right cheek. "That's when I got this, a Prodavan bayonet thrust for my head and I happened to move it just out of the way while pulling my sabre from its sheath. Missing me was the last mistake that poor bugger made..." He grinned. "We pushed them out, the attack knocked the wind out of us but it gutted what they had left. The only thing they could muster for the fifth attack was the poor bastards that they'd conscripted on the way. Brandishing machetes, Kalashnikovs and a ridiculous array of old Colonial rifles they came running at us. I don't think they would have had less of a chance if they'd left their guns behind."

Horke sat back in his chair and finished his brandy, still smiling. He had reminisced and, hopefully, impressed...

Princess Gwendolyn sits enthralled at tale, listening to the Majors words she could almost imagine herself there, hear the screams, the coppery tang of blood on the air. She leaned forward as he came to the climax of his tale and reaching out trailed her finger along the scar.
"Well that was a tale to quicken the blood of any woman, so rare to meet a genuine warrior."
She raises her glass
"To heroism and loyalty remembered"
She drinks
"Admirable that you fought for both Royalty & Family, the two things closes to our hearts" She looks at him and smiles "What reward should such a warrior receive I wonder?", she leans forward a little her gown falling forward exposing the tops of her womanly charms...

[Kyrenaia]

Seeing that apparently their gracious host was not in the mood to greet his guests, the three Kyrenaians entered the ball room by themselves. Such things could be taken care of later, if one asked Damir, but for now, there was a time for a party.
Arm still linked with his daughter, Fara to the other side, the Prince was at the centre with a dazzling smile, looking into the round if he noticed anyone he knew - so far, no luck. Some he knew from hearsay, like the young Shroomish Emperor and of course Baron Baldwin Brice, a person one had to know due to his distinctive service record as a diplomat, but others, like the Princess in a conversation with a decorated soldier, were unknown to him.
Fara leaned over. "If you're searching for me, I'll be at the bar.", she whispered to the other two.
"Take care!", Aurelia asked of her with a smile, while her father nodded.
A moment later, Fara was on the way to the bar to get something non-alcoholic to drink, a fruit juice or something - there were levels of escalation for later tonight, but for now, she wanted to stay sober to take in the many sights to watch how this evening progressed, sitting on her stool. Leaned back with an elbow on the bar, a smile on her lips and a certain grace in her pose, she looked available for cenversation as she nipped on her fruit juice with the other hand. She would freely admit, that she missed Kalak, her pet-Caracal, during such occassions...
Damir, meanwhile, led his daughter to the dance floor, starting off the evening with a little ritual of theirs: First thing at any dance-occassion they found themselves at was, indeed, dancing a few dances before they went their own ways - and they were very good at it. Not perfect, they would be the first to admit that, not even competitively viable for professional contests, but it showed, that they trained regularly and knew very well, what they were doing on the dance floor.

[Xiaxal Xarn]

A moment later, Fara was on the way to the bar to get something non-alcoholic to drink, a fruit juice or something - there were levels of escalation for later tonight, but for now, she wanted to stay sober to take in the many sights to watch how this evening progressed, sitting on her stool. Leaned back with an elbow on the bar, a smile on her lips and a certain grace in her pose, she looked available for cenversation as she nipped on her fruit juice with the other hand. She would freely admit, that she missed Kalak, her pet-Caracal, during such occassions...

A small (3' 11") Xarnian Male in a dark suit, hair neatly parted,small scars on his hands and face was sipping a small beer. He grins at Fara, bows deeply.
"Good evening I am Corporal Han, life sworn bodyguard to Princess Gwendolyn, on a rare free evening, and to which radiant beauty of an up-worlder do I have the honour of addressing?"

[Semparia]

Seeing that apparently their gracious host was not in the mood to greet his guests, the three Kyrenaians entered the ball room by themselves. Such things could be taken care of later, if one asked Damir, but for now, there was a time for a party.
Arm still linked with his daughter, Fara to the other side, the Prince was at the centre with a dazzling smile, looking into the round if he noticed anyone he knew - so far, no luck. Some he knew from hearsay, like the young Shroomish Emperor and of course Baron Baldwin Brice, a person one had to know due to his distinctive service record as a diplomat, but others, like the Princess in a conversation with a decorated soldier, were unknown to him.
Fara leaned over. "If you're searching for me, I'll be at the bar.", she whispered to the other two.
"Take care!", Aurelia asked of her with a smile, while her father nodded.
A moment later, Fara was on the way to the bar to get something non-alcoholic to drink, a fruit juice or something - there were levels of escalation for later tonight, but for now, she wanted to stay sober to take in the many sights to watch how this evening progressed, sitting on her stool. Leaned back with an elbow on the bar, a smile on her lips and a certain grace in her pose, she looked available for cenversation as she nipped on her fruit juice with the other hand. She would freely admit, that she missed Kalak, her pet-Caracal, during such occassions...
Damir, meanwhile, led his daughter to the dance floor, starting off the evening with a little ritual of theirs: First thing at any dance-occassion they found themselves at was, indeed, dancing a few dances before they went their own ways - and they were very good at it. Not perfect, they would be the first to admit that, not even competitively viable for professional contests, but it showed, that they trained regularly and knew very well, what they were doing on the dance floor.

Meanwhile, Queen Janice Spencer approaches Damir,(Because I assume Damir is the sultan) flanked by two guards and her dog, "Hello, it is a great pleasure to meet you Sultan, I bring a gift." She reaches into a box and pulls out a 45. Magnum, well decorated and beautifully made, she offers the handle to the leader.

[Vionna-Frankenlisch]

Baron Baldwin Brice

"Oh, my, my..." Baron Brice chuckled jovially. "You are very kind to say so, sire." He added, looking down at Napoleon in a perfect balance of respect and benevolence. "The roof is indeed high," Brice made a show of looking up, despite his bad back, groaning as he did so, "If you like such marvellous surroundings, you should see the Imperial Palace, back in Frankenlisch. Or even pay a visit to my own humble home, outside Briceport!" He mused openly, a smile etching its way across his usually wearied face.

---

Lady Gemma Brice ~ Major Elias Horke

Major Horke cleared his throat and Lady Gemma understood fairly quickly that their conversation might get personal, she stood and said calmly, "I think I had ought to find my dear father. Major... Please stay with the Princess until I return, or until the two of you wish to relocate, of course."

Horke nodded and replied, "As you say, my lady." Gemma walked off quickly. Horke turned back to the princess and leaned in, "To beauty and generosity, Your Grace..." He declared in whispered tones, raising his glass and downing what remained. "You are a very charming woman... If I may say so, Your Grace."

[Kyrenaia]

A moment later, Fara was on the way to the bar to get something non-alcoholic to drink, a fruit juice or something - there were levels of escalation for later tonight, but for now, she wanted to stay sober to take in the many sights to watch how this evening progressed, sitting on her stool. Leaned back with an elbow on the bar, a smile on her lips and a certain grace in her pose, she looked available for cenversation as she nipped on her fruit juice with the other hand. She would freely admit, that she missed Kalak, her pet-Caracal, during such occassions...

A small (3' 11") Xarnian Male in a dark suit, hair neatly parted,small scars on his hands and face was sipping a small beer. He grins at Fara, bows deeply.
"Good evening I am Corporal Han, life sworn bodyguard to Princess Gwendolyn, on a rare free evening, and to which radiant beauty of an up-worlder do I have the honour of addressing?"

Fara gave a small smile, bowing her head in return to the small person - really, really small person, who apparently was not a child, but a grown man. She knew of medical phenomena, which caused such shortness, but from the term 'up-worldler', she assumed, that there was no medical and a more technical reason for his size.
Regardless, Fara returned the bow with a bow of her head, showing the same respect, before she extended her hand. The compliment was appreciated.
"Fara bint-Dardan, Princess of Ilkhanate of Megido, which is in the up-worldly land of Kyrenaia.", she said and motioned to the seat by her side, "It is my pleasure to make your acquaintance, Sir Corporal. Care to join me for a drink?"
Of course, her drink would stay non-alcoholic, what Corporal Han would drink, or if he joined her at all, was up to him, of course, but Fara's smile was both inviting and exotic, especially from someone from beneath the surface.

Seeing that apparently their gracious host was not in the mood to greet his guests, the three Kyrenaians entered the ball room by themselves. Such things could be taken care of later, if one asked Damir, but for now, there was a time for a party.
Arm still linked with his daughter, Fara to the other side, the Prince was at the centre with a dazzling smile, looking into the round if he noticed anyone he knew - so far, no luck. Some he knew from hearsay, like the young Shroomish Emperor and of course Baron Baldwin Brice, a person one had to know due to his distinctive service record as a diplomat, but others, like the Princess in a conversation with a decorated soldier, were unknown to him.
Fara leaned over. "If you're searching for me, I'll be at the bar.", she whispered to the other two.
"Take care!", Aurelia asked of her with a smile, while her father nodded.
A moment later, Fara was on the way to the bar to get something non-alcoholic to drink, a fruit juice or something - there were levels of escalation for later tonight, but for now, she wanted to stay sober to take in the many sights to watch how this evening progressed, sitting on her stool. Leaned back with an elbow on the bar, a smile on her lips and a certain grace in her pose, she looked available for cenversation as she nipped on her fruit juice with the other hand. She would freely admit, that she missed Kalak, her pet-Caracal, during such occassions...
Damir, meanwhile, led his daughter to the dance floor, starting off the evening with a little ritual of theirs: First thing at any dance-occassion they found themselves at was, indeed, dancing a few dances before they went their own ways - and they were very good at it. Not perfect, they would be the first to admit that, not even competitively viable for professional contests, but it showed, that they trained regularly and knew very well, what they were doing on the dance floor.

Meanwhile, Queen Janice Spencer approaches Damir,(Because I assume Damir is the sultan) flanked by two guards and her dog, "Hello, it is a great pleasure to meet you Sultan, I bring a gift." She reaches into a box and pulls out a 45. Magnum, well decorated and beautifully made, she offers the handle to the leader.

As the foreign Queen, Damir was not quite sure, where exactly to place her, approached, the two Kyrenaians stopped their dance, turning to her, Aurelia a small bit away from her father to give him room to move and gesture without hitting her in the face.
The greeting of said Queen, however, left them embarrassed for a moment: "Hello, it is a great pleasure to meet you Sultan, I bring a gift."
They even forgot to tense up at the weapon being pulled out so casually.
Regardless, Damir bowed his head to the Queen, a gesture of greeting and respect. "Good evening to you, Schahbanou..." A standard term for a foreign monarch of unknown rank, as far as the Kyrenaians were concerned. "...and may the lands You hail from be blessed with cooled breezes and water." His greeting was formal, a slight accent in his voice. "I am Prince Damir ibn-Razia, and this is my daughter, Aurelia.", he continued, fatherly pride in his voice as he spoke about his daughter.
Elegantly, although a bit stiff (something they needed to work on), the young Princess did a small, appropriate curtsy, before her father continued with another bow, this time apologetic.
"My apologies, but I am not my father, the late Faisal Sultan, nor am I my mother, Razia Sultana Umm Albilad...", he spoke, "However, if You permit me, Your Highness, I will take Your generous present to the Sultana in Your name, to serve as the foundation of good relations between Your lands and Kyrenaia."
He would not hold it against the Queen Jennifer, it was an honest mistake - something, that happened every now and then (people often told him, that he had much of his father's looks), but not as often as the mistake of thinking, that Kyrenaians were Muslims, which they were not.
How the other party would react to this revelation was another question.

[Semparia]

"My apologies, but thank you for offering to carry on this gift to the Sultan, that is greatly appreciated, I hope our relations will be prosperous in the future." (Its Janice, not Jennifer btw.)

[Xiaxal Xarn]

Lady Gemma Brice ~ Major Elias Horke

Major Horke cleared his throat and Lady Gemma understood fairly quickly that their conversation might get personal, she stood and said calmly, "I think I had ought to find my dear father. Major... Please stay with the Princess until I return, or until the two of you wish to relocate, of course."

Horke nodded and replied, "As you say, my lady." Gemma walked off quickly. Horke turned back to the princess and leaned in, "To beauty and generosity, Your Grace..." He declared in whispered tones, raising his glass and downing what remained. "You are a very charming woman... If I may say so, Your Grace."

Gwendolyn smiled "You may say so indeed dear Major. So we have politely greeted each other and you have told me a blood warming tale of honour and loyalty. Now it is my turn to tell you a tale, but I shall not do so, for aside from conflict with my siblings mine are tales of seduction."
She grins and stands (she is 4' tall, long blonde hair) So I think we should take a walk of the Palace Grounds, I have quite a fondness for darkened gardens and quiet gazebos " she winks at him and offers her arm.

[Xiaxal Xarn]

Fara gave a small smile, bowing her head in return to the small person - really, really small person, who apparently was not a child, but a grown man. She knew of medical phenomena, which caused such shortness, but from the term 'up-worldler', she assumed, that there was no medical and a more technical reason for his size.
Regardless, Fara returned the bow with a bow of her head, showing the same respect, before she extended her hand. The compliment was appreciated.
"Fara bint-Dardan, Princess of Ilkhanate of Megido, which is in the up-worldly land of Kyrenaia.", she said and motioned to the seat by her side, "It is my pleasure to make your acquaintance, Sir Corporal. Care to join me for a drink?"
Of course, her drink would stay non-alcoholic, what Corporal Han would drink, or if he joined her at all, was up to him, of course, but Fara's smile was both inviting and exotic, especially from someone from beneath the surface.

At the mention of her title he raises an eyebrow in surprise.
"Well a Princess of Royal Blood, a slice of the Divine walking among among us" he takes her hand a gently kisses the back of her hand. "I am most honoured. However please do call me Han, I am off duty and Corporal is merely a rank. I would be most delighted to join you" he sips his beer.
"I must say you do not appear to be as heavily armed and defensive as those of you up-worlders..." he pauses "I must apologise if my terminology offends as we have been until recently a very insular nation and have only just begun to open our borders, though as 99% of our realm is underground I am not sure borders would be the correct word, tunnels, rat runs, tubes ? " he pulls a mock confused face. " However I digress. So tell me O vision of wonder, of your nation"