The Emperor's Birthday (see OOC/RSVP thread)

[Excalbia]

As he set foot on the island, Prince Leopold of Brasland felt a sudden excitement rushing through his body. It was his first official trip abroad representing his brother, King Georg IV, and although he was by nature a private person, it was nice to be invited to a party, especially one celebrating the Emperor, of whom his family was very fond. A steward approached the prince and greeted him. He then guided Leopold to the Summer Palace. The young prince followed him, pleasantly chatting with the courtier.

“You are most welcome, Your Royal Highness,” the steward said as he guided the Braslander into the Summer Palace. “Ah,” he said as he spotted the Imperial Chancellor as she walked away from the recently arrived Ajuban delegation.

“Your Excellency,” the steward said, drawing the Chancellor’s attention.

As she approached, the steward continued, “May I present His Royal Highness, Prince Leopold of Brasland. Your Royal Highness,” he said, turning towards the guest, “Her Excellency, Lady Ashley Gordon Robb, the Imperial Chancellor.”

“Your Royal Highness,” the Chancellor said with a bow. “A pleasure to meet you. I trust that King George is well.”

[Excalbia]

Vince was at the airport, having landed at the airport after a journey to the country of Excalbia, which he had not visited before. He had taken advantage of the journey to read the dossier of information prepared about the event and the countries involved in it. Particularly, he was looking to see if there's anyone of particular interest he would like to talk to. Excalbia itself was of some interest, being the host nation of the event. The information he had obtained pointed to a protestant Christian constitutional monarchy, and was also unsuprirsing in the other areas, bar their treaty with some other nations that involved rather substnatial cooperation that was initially unexpected. The period of regency in the country did make him think of the events that had unfolded previously back home, even if he wasn't around at the end of those. Establishing friendly relations would be good outcome, but it was unlikely to be his primary goal on that front, even if his personal goal was to enjoy their country and the events he'd be taking part in.

The other attending nation of St. Alexandria was much more interesting to the Regent. While the information available to him was insufficient about their social and economic spheres, the political status and history of the country intrigued Vince out of similarity to certain positions the NMK's own government held, both explicitly and implicitly. Being a very small island nation was the start of it, because while his country was not small it was an island, but the size bought thoughts of larger, more influential powers potentially interfering or taking over the place and the isolation combined with previous geopolitical events did not help with these thoughts.

Having a largely democratic system of government under an absolute monarchy was unusual for him, normally the democratic monarchies were constitutional, and indeed this one was de facto if not de jure. The two other things of interest was the government's history with Communism, as well as the current monarch. The NMK was very anti-Communist, it was an illegal ideology and one of the foci of the Secret Police's disappearances. The unusual part was that they won a communist revolution, instead of the country becoming a commie hellhole and terrible things happening to the deposed government as had been observed on previous occasions. Hopefully there wouldn't be any recurrence of that there. Finally, there was the fact that the monarch was underage, like the NMK's Emperor but older. For an absolute monarchy, even one that rarely exercises it's powers, an underage ruler could be quite the problem, even if it did give him a job...perhaps talking with their own Regent about this would prove interesting and useful in the future.

The pair of Secret Service operatives that would be protecting him if possible got out first, and the three of them shortly afterwards got in the car that would be driving them to the Summer Palace where the event was being held. While the drive was uneventful, Vince did take the chance to look at the surroundings in Excalbia as they passed by all the buildings. More interesting than just sitting and waiting, even if the architecture tends to look similar, given that most places do not have unique, unusual styles or building types.

He wasn't expecting that the final part of the journey would not be via car but instead via ferry, with his destination apparently being located on an island. The surprise wasn't annoying though, especially since he hadn't traveled on any ferry in forever so was able to enjoy the experience as something he didn't do much and was left in a good mood for the actual event, and after the short journey he arrived at the palace.

Never particularly one for glamour and fancy outfits, unlike others back home, he was at the Palace not in any kind of formal uniform (as if he had one anyway...) or anything with large amounts of decorations, but instead wearing a designer, but plain, outfit much like someone would wear to work, except more formal, expensive and higher quality. He went inside and wondered if anyone would be greeting or welcoming, and as it turns out there was someone ready to do that. He approached this person and said "Why hello, I take it you are one of the people responsible for welcoming others to your event? I'm happy to meet you in that case."

“Hello,” the gentleman said with a bow. He looked to be fairly young, perhaps in his thirties or early forties and was dressed in a tuxedo with a blue tie and cumberbund. He was a broad shouldered man and the tanned face under his light brown hair seemed to speak of a life spent largely outside. “Sir Benjamin Taylor,” the man said with a smile, “and I’m pleased to welcome you to my… er, the Summer Palace.” The man shrugged at the slip of the tongue; as Yeoman Warder of the Preserve, he was in charge of the large staff that maintained the Palace and the Island. While his position was not one of the highest ranking in the Imperial Household Agency, given the Island’s proximity to the seat of government and the Imperial Family’s fondness for it, it was a rather prominent position.

“And, sir, to whom do I have the pleasure of greeting this evening?”

[Dytarma]

Dyérkovak Bulan, his sister, wife, and daughter all enter the Palace looking at the beauty of the interior as well as the exterior. Dyérkovak is wearing a standard jet black suit and rose red tie with a pin of the Dytarmish flag on his left breast pocket, while all three of the women are wearing cyan blue dresses with the same Dytarmish pin on the left breast, and a small hand bag to either the left or right of the person. While this isn't Dyérkovak's first time out of the country, for everyone else, this is their first time traveling abroad.

They soon meet their welcomer who tells the a little history about the Palace and how it was made and why. After a 5 minute talk, the welcomer then bids goodbye as he has other guests to welcome into as well. Dyérkovak's family then look around the Palace a bit more, discussing it's amazing interior design and architecture.

A gentleman approached King Bulan and his family. Dressed, as most of the male Excalbian guests were, in a black tuxedo. His white hair framed a round, tan face and a broad smile. The man gave a slight bow. “Greetings and welcome,” the man said. “Forgive me, but I don’t believe I know you. So, I thought I would take the liberty of introducing myself. I’m Arimis Nukilik, Grand Duke of Patverums.”

"I'm Dyérkovak Bulan, king of Dytarma and prince of Hanover, but you may refer to me as either Bulan III or Your Majesty, whichever suits you best."

He then shows Arimis Nukilik his family he brought to the Palace.

"This one to my left me is my wife, Sme Iye, and to her left is our daughter Sara Bulan. The person to my right is Spatelu Bulan, my sister. My brother, his nephews, and my son couldn't attend this birthday to protect our bloodline. A little bit about me, I was born in 1983 and was ascended to the throne in 1995 after my father died of cancer. Of course I was a minor at the time, so my mother was my regent until the age of 17, then I fully ascended to the throne in 2000. I also made a law which allows my family members to marry off to other royal families, which is why the heir apparent to the Hanoverian throne is part Georgian."

He then asks about the history of Excalbia and its monarchs.

[St Alexandria]

Lord Solomon nodded. “Of course, Your Highness. I shall endeavor to find Her Excellency, Lady Ashley, and point her in your direction.” With a slight bow the Minister added, “Please enjoy the reception. I believe His Imperial Majesty should be arriving shortly.”

As Lord Solomon sifted away into the crowds, Francis took a glass of champagne from a silver tray, and began to walk around the magnificent ballroom. He observed the attire of the many guests, noting their appearances, their facial experiences, the multicoloured flag pins on their lapels, their body language, the way they spoke and manoeuvred. Diplomacy had never particularly been his forté, though he could tell very easily from where he stood who were the soldiers, who were the leaders, and who were the diplomats. He found a secluded corner of the ballroom with several plump armchairs, and sat down with his wife.

"It's a very nice palace," his wife said.

"Very nice indeed," Francis agreed. "Not too small, not too shabby, and not too large either. Perfect accommodation for a royal family, in my opinion, though if I were the sovereign I would be rid of these windows...and these people."

Marie laughed heartily. "You ought to greet some of them. His Majesty can't have you represent him without having made any true friends."

"On the contrary, I made friends with the Minister for Labour and Welfare." Francis took a small gulp of champagne. "He seemed a decent enough chap, though I wouldn't trust him in my own Cabinet. Excalbia could be a useful ally for the Kingdom, you know. They have the wealth, the power, and the infrastructure that can bring us out of our isolated state, and project us as a driven force within the region. All we must do is mine the gold and our plan forty years in the making will be realised."

[A m e n r i a]

Cheonsa's eyes widened at the moment the Excalbian woman in blue introduced herself. She was a female military leader, which reminded him of Amenria's very own Heavenly General. A thought of challenging the person before him crossed his mind. "Thank you. Amenrians are known to make wonderful entrances. I'm Cheonsa, Heavenly Emperor of Amenria." He gestured to the woman next to him. "This is Camille. She'll be accompanying me tonight. Our daughters should be arriving here shortly, so if you see vampire twins, one in a black dress and another in white, you'll know it's them." He calmly smiled, an aura of kindness and tranquility emitted from his presence.

“Your Imperial Majesties,” General Gertrude said with another slight bow, “you are both welcome.”

She smiled slightly at the Heavenly Emperor’s description of his daughters. The words heavenly and vampire did not go together in Excalbian tellings of the old vampire myths, but then these visitors were clearly not myths. While mythical beings come to life were by no means common in Excalbia, there had been a few encounters over the years with such visitors from the far corners of the multiverse.

“I will be certain to inform the stewards to be on the lookout for your daughters and to send them your way upon arrival.” The General gestured into the Great Hall of the Summer Palace. “Please, Your Imperial Majesties, the part awaits. I believe that our Emperor will be making his appearance shortly.”

"Excellent." Cheonsa nodded in approval, then put his arm around Camille's. "Let's go in. I'm curious what would be inside." He said. She just smiled and replied, with a sweet smile, "Okay, okay, let's go." The couple entered the structure.

[Excalbia]

"I'm Dyérkovak Bulan, king of Dytarma and prince of Hanover, but you may refer to me as either Bulan III or Your Majesty, whichever suits you best."

He then shows Arimis Nukilik his family he brought to the Palace.

"This one to my left me is my wife, Sme Iye, and to her left is our daughter Sara Bulan. The person to my right is Spatelu Bulan, my sister. My brother, his nephews, and my son couldn't attend this birthday to protect our bloodline. A little bit about me, I was born in 1983 and was ascended to the throne in 1995 after my father died of cancer. Of course I was a minor at the time, so my mother was my regent until the age of 17, then I fully ascended to the throne in 2000. I also made a law which allows my family members to marry off to other royal families, which is why the heir apparent to the Hanoverian throne is part Georgian."

He then asks about the history of Excalbia and its monarchs.

“Your Majesty,” Nukilik said with bow at the King’s introduction. He then bowed to the Queen and the two princesses. “Your Majesty. Your Highnesses.”

The Grand Duke listened politely as the King Bulan III recounted how he came to the throne. “Very interesting, Your Majesty,” he said smoothly. “As for our history, permit me to start with my people, the Inuit. We arrived here long before the ancestors of the Excalbians and lived along the coasts. Then came the Camveni and Celts, who settled the eastern and southern coasts. The Balto-Nordic peoples followed and moved to the central highlands, including the area here around Citadel Excalbia, and spread to the western coast. We were progressively pushed to the north until all we had left were the northern islands, mainly the island of Patverums, as the Excalbians came to call it.

“The Highlanders - the Excalbians - warred amongst themselves and with the Camveni Lowlanders for centuries, until Alsgood, the Great, unified the Highland factions in the 16th century and proclaimed himself king. He and his descendants made tributaries of the Camveni - and of my ancestor, who was made the first Grand Duke of Patverums. Then, in the 18th century Lanerian Protestants came and upset the balance between the pagan Highlanders and the Catholic Lowlanders. They managed to convert the last king’s son to Christianity and he, now called Joshua, the Great, united the Highlands and Lowlands and proclaimed the Holy Empire. Our Emperor is a direct descendant of Joshua, the Great.”

[Brasland]

As he set foot on the island, Prince Leopold of Brasland felt a sudden excitement rushing through his body. It was his first official trip abroad representing his brother, King Georg IV, and although he was by nature a private person, it was nice to be invited to a party, especially one celebrating the Emperor, of whom his family was very fond. A steward approached the prince and greeted him. He then guided Leopold to the Summer Palace. The young prince followed him, pleasantly chatting with the courtier.

“You are most welcome, Your Royal Highness,” the steward said as he guided the Braslander into the Summer Palace. “Ah,” he said as he spotted the Imperial Chancellor as she walked away from the recently arrived Ajuban delegation.

“Your Excellency,” the steward said, drawing the Chancellor’s attention.

As she approached, the steward continued, “May I present His Royal Highness, Prince Leopold of Brasland. Your Royal Highness,” he said, turning towards the guest, “Her Excellency, Lady Ashley Gordon Robb, the Imperial Chancellor.”

“Your Royal Highness,” the Chancellor said with a bow. “A pleasure to meet you. I trust that King George is well.”

Leopold immediately recognized the Imperial Chancellor. After all, he had been briefed the night before about the government’s main figures. He smiled courteously at Lady Ashley and gently took her hand, kissing the air above it.

“My pleasure, Your Excellency”, said Leopold after she greeted him. Then, referring to his brother, he explained: “His Majesty is doing well, although very busy as always. The Queen gave birth to their third child and the country is preparing for new legislative elections. Not that we don’t know who’ll win. The Conservatives have a vast majority in Parliament.”

[Dytarma]

"I'm Dyérkovak Bulan, king of Dytarma and prince of Hanover, but you may refer to me as either Bulan III or Your Majesty, whichever suits you best."

He then shows Arimis Nukilik his family he brought to the Palace.

"This one to my left me is my wife, Sme Iye, and to her left is our daughter Sara Bulan. The person to my right is Spatelu Bulan, my sister. My brother, his nephews, and my son couldn't attend this birthday to protect our bloodline. A little bit about me, I was born in 1983 and was ascended to the throne in 1995 after my father died of cancer. Of course I was a minor at the time, so my mother was my regent until the age of 17, then I fully ascended to the throne in 2000. I also made a law which allows my family members to marry off to other royal families, which is why the heir apparent to the Hanoverian throne is part Georgian."

He then asks about the history of Excalbia and its monarchs.

“Your Majesty,” Nukilik said with bow at the King’s introduction. He then bowed to the Queen and the two princesses. “Your Majesty. Your Highnesses.”

The Grand Duke listened politely as the King Bulan III recounted how he came to the throne. “Very interesting, Your Majesty,” he said smoothly. “As for our history, permit me to start with my people, the Inuit. We arrived here long before the ancestors of the Excalbians and lived along the coasts. Then came the Camveni and Celts, who settled the eastern and southern coasts. The Balto-Nordic peoples followed and moved to the central highlands, including the area here around Citadel Excalbia, and spread to the western coast. We were progressively pushed to the north until all we had left were the northern islands, mainly the island of Patverums, as the Excalbians came to call it.

“The Highlanders - the Excalbians - warred amongst themselves and with the Camveni Lowlanders for centuries, until Alsgood, the Great, unified the Highland factions in the 16th century and proclaimed himself king. He and his descendants made tributaries of the Camveni - and of my ancestor, who was made the first Grand Duke of Patverums. Then, in the 18th century Lanerian Protestants came and upset the balance between the pagan Highlanders and the Catholic Lowlanders. They managed to convert the last king’s son to Christianity and he, now called Joshua, the Great, united the Highlands and Lowlands and proclaimed the Holy Empire. Our Emperor is a direct descendant of Joshua, the Great.”

Dyérkovak listens to Nukilik, intrigued by how despite giving descriptive people groups there is still a sense of vagueness to the actual location, giving off sort of a magical feel.

"Pardon for interruption, but following your history correctly, I assume this nation is around Greenland and/or Iceland, since it's colonizers are European northerners? And I notice this Patverums island, where exactly is this place located to which you are the Grand Duke of? And is there any name to which I can refer to you besides your personal name, such as Grand Duke of Patverums?"

[Excalbia]

Dyérkovak listens to Nukilik, intrigued by how despite giving descriptive people groups there is still a sense of vagueness to the actual location, giving off sort of a magical feel.

"Pardon for interruption, but following your history correctly, I assume this nation is around Greenland and/or Iceland, since it's colonizers are European northerners? And I notice this Patverums island, where exactly is this place located to which you are the Grand Duke of? And is there any name to which I can refer to you besides your personal name, such as Grand Duke of Patverums?"

“Yes,” the Grand Duke said with a nod, “the Excalbian Isles are located in the northern latitudes roughly analogous to this Greenland and Iceland that exist in other worlds. But quite a bit larger,” he smiled. “Patverums is the second largest of the Excalbian Isles, but still quite a bit smaller than the Excalbian mainland, which is nearly continental in size.

“It may interest you, Your Majesty, that the Excalbian mainland actually hosts three nations - the Holy Empire of Excalbia, our country, which stretches from the southern and southwestern coasts to the interior and which occupies most of the interior. The Confederation of Sovereign States lies to the east, along the eastern coast, and the Dominion of Upper Virginia sits to the north, along the northwestern coast and part of the northern interior. Both are children, if you will, of the Holy Empire. Ironically, Patverums is physically closer to Upper Virginia, yet it remains part of the Holy Empire.

“As for my form of address, Your Majesty, most use ‘Your Highness;’ however, it would not be incorrect to address me Grand Duke or Grand Duke Nukilik.” The older gentleman winked. “And those to know me well often call me Nukilik, though those closest to me will often call me Ittuk,” he chuckled softly at the last word.

[Excalbia]

Leopold immediately recognized the Imperial Chancellor. After all, he had been briefed the night before about the government’s main figures. He smiled courteously at Lady Ashley and gently took her hand, kissing the air above it.

“My pleasure, Your Excellency”, said Leopold after she greeted him. Then, referring to his brother, he explained: “His Majesty is doing well, although very busy as always. The Queen gave birth to their third child and the country is preparing for new legislative elections. Not that we don’t know who’ll win. The Conservatives have a vast majority in Parliament.”

“Please convey my heartiest congratulations to Their Majesties on the birth of their new child,” Lady Ashley said with a smile. “I’m sure His Imperial Majesty will add his congratulations as well when you meet him. He has a particular fondness for your King and your country.”

She held her tongue at the mention of Brasland’s overwhelming Conservative majority. Although the most visible figure in the New National Union - Lady Christina Freedman - was the leader of the Progressive Conservatives before their dissolution, Lady Ashley and half her government were former Liberals. “Our own elections for the Imperial Senate are about to get underway. We’re confident that the New National Union will remain in power, possibly in a coalition government. However, elections can take one by surprise.”

[New Mushroom Kingdom]

“Hello,” the gentleman said with a bow. He looked to be fairly young, perhaps in his thirties or early forties and was dressed in a tuxedo with a blue tie and cumberbund. He was a broad shouldered man and the tanned face under his light brown hair seemed to speak of a life spent largely outside. “Sir Benjamin Taylor,” the man said with a smile, “and I’m pleased to welcome you to my… er, the Summer Palace.” The man shrugged at the slip of the tongue; as Yeoman Warder of the Preserve, he was in charge of the large staff that maintained the Palace and the Island. While his position was not one of the highest ranking in the Imperial Household Agency, given the Island’s proximity to the seat of government and the Imperial Family’s fondness for it, it was a rather prominent position.

“And, sir, to whom do I have the pleasure of greeting this evening?”

Vince smiled as the man introduced himself as the type of person he was indeed looking for. Clearly they were one of the higher-ranking staff employed at the Palace, as revealed by the slip of the tongue with 'my'. He said back to the man "Greetings Sir Benjamin, today you have the pleasure of greeting Regent Vince from the New Mushroom Kingdom and your welcome is happily accepted, I imagine the palace is even more splendid once inside. I was surprised to hear it is on it's own island though - most unusual."

[Excalbia]

The buzz of convivial conversation inside the Grand Ballroom began to taper off as musicians in the red uniform of the Imperial Army Band filed onto one of the second story balconies. As the voices of the guests fell into silence, the musicians began to play a march. The Exclabian military personnel present all came to attention as an honour guard carrying the Excalbian flag, the Imperial standard and the flags of the four uniformed services entered from a door below the balcony.

With the sound of ruffles and flourishes from the trumpets, the honour guard presented the colors and a voice announced, “Her Imperial Highness, Princess Christiana and Ms. Janet Latsone and His Excellency, Tariq, Lord of Mezciems.”

At the far end of the Ballroom large double wooden doors were opened by Imperial Guards in blue uniforms and plumed golden helmets. The Emperor’s sister, Princess Christiana, entered the Ballroom dressed in a floor length red gown. Her blonde hair was braided atop her head and she wore a glittering tiara. A murmur of surprise swept across the room as the Excalbians in attendance realized that she was entering arm-in-arm with the woman on her on the left. Janet Latsone, the princess’ long-time but only recently acknowledged partner, was slightly shorter than the princess and wore her dark blonde hair short. She was dressed in a conservative white gown. The princess’ adopted son, Lord Tariq, was a young man in his twenties with a deep tan complexion and charming smile. He was wearing a tight-fitting tuxedo of a modern cut and walked to his mother’s right.

The trumpets sounded again and the voice announced, “His Imperial Highness, Prince James, Baron of Parnu.”

The Emperor’s youngest son, Prince James, was a tall man with thick blonde hair. He appeared to be college-aged and entered the Ballroom dressed in an only slightly looser version of Lord Tariq’s form-fitting tuxedo. He walked over and bowed slightly to his aunt and her companion before taking his place beside his best friend Tariq.

The trumpets heralded a third announcement. “Her Imperial Highness, Princess Rebecca, Baroness of Lielvarde and His Imperial Highness, Andrik, Duke of Draakurr.”

Princess Rebecca, the Emperor’s middle child, entered the Ballroom with her husband Andrik of the Principality of Draakurr. The princess wore a bright blue gown strapless gown. Her reddish blonde hair was braided and fell almost straight down her back. She was tall, like many Excalbian women, but her husband matched her in height. He wore a tuxedo and a blue sash and had piercing blue eyes that matched those of his wife. The couple entered and took their place next to Prince James.

Another playing of ruffles and flourishes brought an air of expectation to the crowd. The voice announced, “His Imperial Highness, Joseph, Crown Prince of Excalbia, Prince of Liela Augstiene, Co-Sovereign of Langelais and Her Imperial Highness, Anna, Princess of Liela Augstiene, Co-Sovereign of Langelais and Her Imperial Highness, Princess Elizabeth of Liela Augstiene.”

The Crown Prince was tall, broad shouldered man in his mid-thirties. His blond hair was closely cropped and he wore the blue dress mess uniform of the Imperial Army. Gold braid covered the forearms of his jacket, which was adorned with medals and ribbons. His arm was was bent and his wife, Princess Anna, draped a gloved hand over his arm. She was dressed in an elegant gown and wore an impressive tiara. On her opposite side was their daughter, Princess Elizabeth, who appeared to be a young teenager. As they passed their family members, everyone bowed slightly to the Crown Prince and Princess and he returned their bows with a nod and smile. Finally, they took their place beside Rebecca and Andrik.

After the the trumpets played ruffles and flourishes again, the rest of the musicians joined in and played the first few bars of the Caldan National Anthem as a voice announced, “Her Royal Majesty, Gwendolyn, Queen of the Caldan Union and His Imperial Highness, Peter, Prince Consort of the Caldan Union, Prince of Kuldiga.”

The Queen, sovereign of the Caldan Union of the Resurgent Dream, entered with her Prince Consort, Peter, who also happened to be a prince of Excalbia and nephew of the Emperor. The couple received bows and curtseys from the the other members of the Imperial family and took their place beside the Crown Prince and his family.

After a moment of anticipation, the trumpets played again, and this time the musicians entered into a full rendition of the Imperial March. “Your Majesties,” the voice of the announcer began, “Your Highnesses, My Lords and Ladies, Ladies and Gentlemen: His Imperial Majesty, David IV, Lord of Valmiera, Grand Duke of Saulcrasti, King in the Citadel, Defender of the Faith and Temporal Head of the Church of Excalbia, Guardian of the Upper and Lower Lands, Heir of the Sword of Alsgood, by the Grace of God Emperor of Excalbia and Her Imperial Majesty, Elizabeth, Lady of Valmiera, Grand Duchess of Saulcrasti, Empress of Excalbia.”

The Emperor entered the Ballroom arm-in-arm with the Empress. He wore the white dress mess uniform of the Imperial Navy with a blue sash across the chest. The uniform was adorned with medals, many earned in actual service before he become the heir apparent. He was a tall man, somewhat thin, and his blonde hair was liberally mixed with white and streaks of gray. The Empress was nearly as tall and was dressed in a conservative pale red gown with a diamond tiara. Her reddish blonde hair was styled in an elegant updo, leaving her neck bare.

The Emperor and Empress passed their family members, bowing slightly in return to their bows and curtseys. He left the Empress, with a pat on her hand, beside Queen Gwendolyn and Prince Peter and continued to a small podium.

“Honoured guests,” the Emperor spoke into a waiting microphone, “thank you for coming. I am grateful to have my family and so many old friends here with us tonight. I am also honoured by the presence of so many new faces. I look forward to meeting you and getting to know you.” He looked around the room and smiled. “I hope all of you have a wonderful time. Thank you again for coming. Please, enjoy the party.”

With that the Emperor walked back towards his family. He took the Empress’ hand, exchanged a few words with the Caldan Queen and his nephew, then turned to greet his oldest son and daughter-in-law. After accepting a hug from his granddaughter and his only daughter, and exchanging greetings with the rest of the family, he and and the Empress waded into the crowd to greet their guests.

[Excalbia]

Vince smiled as the man introduced himself as the type of person he was indeed looking for. Clearly they were one of the higher-ranking staff employed at the Palace, as revealed by the slip of the tongue with 'my'. He said back to the man "Greetings Sir Benjamin, today you have the pleasure of greeting Regent Vince from the New Mushroom Kingdom and your welcome is happily accepted, I imagine the palace is even more splendid once inside. I was surprised to hear it is on it's own island though - most unusual."

“Your Excellency,” Sir Benjamin said, “welcome.” He gestured to the interior of the Summer Palace and towards the Grand Ballroom. “Oh, it is very lovely inside. An indoor Eden. Please, allow me to show you in.”

The Yeoman Warder led Regent Vince through the open multi-story glass doors of the Palace and into the Ballroom. They arrived just in time to hear the formal introduction of the Imperial Family.

[Brasland]

“Please convey my heartiest congratulations to Their Majesties on the birth of their new child,” Lady Ashley said with a smile. “I’m sure His Imperial Majesty will add his congratulations as well when you meet him. He has a particular fondness for your King and your country.”

She held her tongue at the mention of Brasland’s overwhelming Conservative majority. Although the most visible figure in the New National Union - Lady Christina Freedman - was the leader of the Progressive Conservatives before their dissolution, Lady Ashley and half her government were former Liberals. “Our own elections for the Imperial Senate are about to get underway. We’re confident that the New National Union will remain in power, possibly in a coalition government. However, elections can take one by surprise.”

Leopold replied with a diplomatic smile. As the march began to play, he turned to listen to the musicians and watch the guards, while making sure he did not turn his back to Lady Ashley. Instead, he situated himself right next to her. As the members of the imperial family entered, he recognized some faces. He had met them at his sister's wedding in Markund, about four years ago. He remembered the Emperor and Empress very well, along with Princess Rebecca, Duke Andrik and Prince James. The rest of the emperor's family he did not know personally, but he had done his research and knew who they were. Princess Christiana's appearance with a woman intrigued him, and he asked the Imperial Chancellor about it.

"Ma'am, is it normal for members of the Imperial House to attend official events with their same-sex partners?", he wondered, trying not to sound judgmental, which he truly was not.

[Excalbia]

Leopold replied with a diplomatic smile. As the march began to play, he turned to listen to the musicians and watch the guards, while making sure he did not turn his back to Lady Ashley. Instead, he situated himself right next to her. As the members of the imperial family entered, he recognized some faces. He had met them at his sister's wedding in Markund, about four years ago. He remembered the Emperor and Empress very well, along with Princess Rebecca, Duke Andrik and Prince James. The rest of the emperor's family he did not know personally, but he had done his research and knew who they were. Princess Christiana's appearance with a woman intrigued him, and he asked the Imperial Chancellor about it.

"Ma'am, is it normal for members of the Imperial House to attend official events with their same-sex partners?", he wondered, trying not to sound judgmental, which he truly was not.

Lady Ashley briefly flashed a sly smile. “No, it’s not really common at all. This is the first time Ms. Latsone has been officially introduced at a State function. It was the Emperor’s decision to do so. A favor to his sister, I suppose.”

Giving the look of a person about to say more than they might consider prudent, the Chancellor continued. “Although our laws banning homosexuality were thankfully abolished long ago, same sex marriage remains prohibited. Although,” she gave a brief smile, “that may be changing. I understand that His Imperial Majesty is about to issue a decree affording same sex marriages performed in other countries the same recognition as other valid foreign marriages.”

[Culhuaca]

The Culhuacan party applauded the Emperor's speech as he addressed the crowd. Until then, the Archduchess Carlota had largely been speaking with her own party, appreciating the lovely and spacious setting and contemplating the various foreign dignitaries. They did not have a gift to deliver in person. Culhuaca had donated six axolotls to Excalbia's most prominent public aquarium as a birthday gift. Hardly something one could bring to a party. The Archdcuessh couldn't held noticing the Heads of State of many nations far larger and stronger than Culhuaca had seen fit to come in person and Carlota was beginning to believe her uncle the Emperor should have come. The Archduchess was a young woman in her early twenties of above average height. She had a definite olive undertone to her complexion although she looked rather fair in her black dinner-length evening gown, cinched at the waist with a purple sash, and her matching elbow-length gloves. Her dark brown hair was worn up, although she was bareheaded, a mark of her unmarried status. Her cousin and lady-in-waiting Donna Arely Rajoy Orozco was perhaps garnering more attention. A head taller than the Archduchess with deep blue eyes and blonde hair spilling down to her neck, Arely wore no wrap over her backless evening gown. Donna Alejandra Escudero and Donna Lilia Leticia Moreira were both women of about the Archduchess's height with brown hair and relatively conservative dark blue evening dresses and wraps. Donna Carmen Sandoval Maza was between the Archduchess and Donna Arely in height with brown skin, black hair, and almond-shaped eyes. She was also striking in her green evening gown.

The ladies, of course, were not the entire party. Father Silvano Ramírez in his cassock and collar served as a visual reminder of the devoutly Catholic character of the imperial family and much of Culhuacan society. Father Silvano looked more like a typical Culhuacan, if one could speak of such thing, than any of the aristocratic ladies. His skin was a little darker than Donna Carmen's and his hair and beard were black and curly. He hung back with the Archduchess's slender, balding secretary, Antonio González Hinojosa. The two men carried themselves with the air of those who didn't quite approve of parties and weren't sure how they'd wound up at one. Captain José Francisco Joaquín López was a large, muscular man who somehow managed to be unobtrusive without ever being far from the Archduchess he was sworn to protect. However, the most important member of the party was perhaps Quirino Acosta Jiménez from the foreign ministry. The olive-skinned, fit, thirty something in a dark tuxedo much like those the Excalbians wore was charged with the substantive diplomacy on this visit and it was telling that it was he, not the Archduchess, who gave a sharp glance to Father Silvano when he overheard a whispered word between the priest and González upon Princess Christiana's appearance. As the Emperor moved into the crowd, he spoke softly to Archduchess Carlota. "You should go introduce yourself before someone else does."

She blushed hesitantly but then nodded. "I should." And she started towards the Excalbian emperor, curtsying deeply as she entered his immediate presence. "Happy birthday, Your Imperial Majesty. I'm Archduchess Carlota, from Culhuaca." Not sure the man would have even heard of her nation.

[Brasland]

Lady Ashley briefly flashed a sly smile. “No, it’s not really common at all. This is the first time Ms. Latsone has been officially introduced at a State function. It was the Emperor’s decision to do so. A favor to his sister, I suppose.”

Giving the look of a person about to say more than they might consider prudent, the Chancellor continued. “Although our laws banning homosexuality were thankfully abolished long ago, same sex marriage remains prohibited. Although,” she gave a brief smile, “that may be changing. I understand that His Imperial Majesty is about to issue a decree affording same sex marriages performed in other countries the same recognition as other valid foreign marriages.”

“Interesting”, muttered the prince.

Such scenario would be impossible in Brasland, where the Catholic Church’s influence was very strong, and whose overwhelmingly conservative Parliament would never support the legalization of same-sex marriage. He knew of one member of his family who would deeply envy Princess Christiana. It was strange that his own family was so disaffected from the Church, particularly in a country like Brasland, but they knew that their personal views could not be imposed on the majority of the population, who still considered many issues that were accepted abroad –like abortion, divorce or gay marriage– as sinful. If the kingdom was to evolve, it would take some time, and patience was a much needed virtue for people in Leopold’s position. He did not mention these thoughts to the Chancellor, but they frequently occupied his mind lately. Instead, he smiled once again to her.

“I hope the Princess and Ms Latsone find happiness together”, he observed. “After all, that’s all one really needs.”

[Excalbia]

The Culhuacan party applauded the Emperor's speech as he addressed the crowd. Until then, the Archduchess Carlota had largely been speaking with her own party, appreciating the lovely and spacious setting and contemplating the various foreign dignitaries. They did not have a gift to deliver in person. Culhuaca had donated six axolotls to Excalbia's most prominent public aquarium as a birthday gift. Hardly something one could bring to a party. The Archdcuessh couldn't held noticing the Heads of State of many nations far larger and stronger than Culhuaca had seen fit to come in person and Carlota was beginning to believe her uncle the Emperor should have come. The Archduchess was a young woman in her early twenties of above average height. She had a definite olive undertone to her complexion although she looked rather fair in her black dinner-length evening gown, cinched at the waist with a purple sash, and her matching elbow-length gloves. Her dark brown hair was worn up, although she was bareheaded, a mark of her unmarried status. Her cousin and lady-in-waiting Donna Arely Rajoy Orozco was perhaps garnering more attention. A head taller than the Archduchess with deep blue eyes and blonde hair spilling down to her neck, Arely wore no wrap over her backless evening gown. Donna Alejandra Escudero and Donna Lilia Leticia Moreira were both women of about the Archduchess's height with brown hair and relatively conservative dark blue evening dresses and wraps. Donna Carmen Sandoval Maza was between the Archduchess and Donna Arely in height with brown skin, black hair, and almond-shaped eyes. She was also striking in her green evening gown.

The ladies, of course, were not the entire party. Father Silvano Ramírez in his cassock and collar served as a visual reminder of the devoutly Catholic character of the imperial family and much of Culhuacan society. Father Silvano looked more like a typical Culhuacan, if one could speak of such thing, than any of the aristocratic ladies. His skin was a little darker than Donna Carmen's and his hair and beard were black and curly. He hung back with the Archduchess's slender, balding secretary, Antonio González Hinojosa. The two men carried themselves with the air of those who didn't quite approve of parties and weren't sure how they'd wound up at one. Captain José Francisco Joaquín López was a large, muscular man who somehow managed to be unobtrusive without ever being far from the Archduchess he was sworn to protect. However, the most important member of the party was perhaps Quirino Acosta Jiménez from the foreign ministry. The olive-skinned, fit, thirty something in a dark tuxedo much like those the Excalbians wore was charged with the substantive diplomacy on this visit and it was telling that it was he, not the Archduchess, who gave a sharp glance to Father Silvano when he overheard a whispered word between the priest and González upon Princess Christiana's appearance. As the Emperor moved into the crowd, he spoke softly to Archduchess Carlota. "You should go introduce yourself before someone else does."

She blushed hesitantly but then nodded. "I should." And she started towards the Excalbian emperor, curtsying deeply as she entered his immediate presence. "Happy birthday, Your Imperial Majesty. I'm Archduchess Carlota, from Culhuaca." Not sure the man would have even heard of her nation.

The Emperor smiled and gave a slight bow. “Thank you, Your Grace,” he said to the young Archduchess. “It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

The Emperor cast his eye over the entourage standing behind the young woman and nodded in their direction. Looking back to Carlota, he crossed his arms behind his back and turned his head to one side. “I must confess, Madam, that I am not familiar with your country. Culhuaca,I believe? Where is it located?”

[Culhuaca]

The Emperor smiled and gave a slight bow. “Thank you, Your Grace,” he said to the young Archduchess. “It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

The Emperor cast his eye over the entourage standing behind the young woman and nodded in their direction. Looking back to Carlota, he crossed his arms behind his back and turned his head to one side. “I must confess, Madam, that I am not familiar with your country. Culhuaca,I believe? Where is it located?”

Although they had not walked forward with her, the entourage immediately bowed or curtsied when the Emperor nodded to them.

"Culhuaca, yes," she confirmed. "It's an equatorial country located in the Western hemisphere. It stretches from deserts in the North to rainforests in the South with more temperate climates in between, where it's center of population lies." She smiled warmly. "Excalbia is as far north as I have ever been. I read a great deal about it preparing for this but it's a different thing to actually see. It's a lovely country."

[Excalbia]

“Interesting”, muttered the prince.

Such scenario would be impossible in Brasland, where the Catholic Church’s influence was very strong, and whose overwhelmingly conservative Parliament would never support the legalization of same-sex marriage. He knew of one member of his family who would deeply envy Princess Christiana. It was strange that his own family was so disaffected from the Church, particularly in a country like Brasland, but they knew that their personal views could not be imposed on the majority of the population, who still considered many issues that were accepted abroad –like abortion, divorce or gay marriage– as sinful. If the kingdom was to evolve, it would take some time, and patience was a much needed virtue for people in Leopold’s position. He did not mention these thoughts to the Chancellor, but they frequently occupied his mind lately. Instead, he smiled once again to her.

“I hope the Princess and Ms Latsone find happiness together”, he observed. “After all, that’s all one really needs.”

“I’m sure they will, Your Highness,” Lady Ashley said, still looking off in the direction of the Imperial Family. She, and her fellow former Liberals, has spent years trying to change policy on same sex marriage, among other things, to no avail. Then, the Emperor’s sister decides she wants to take her relationship public and suddenly it is the Emperor pushing for change.

The Chancellor turned towards Leopold. “I am sure that His Imperial Majesty will be pleased that His Majesty, your brother, has sent you as his representative. I know that the Emperor - and all of us in the government - are anxious to renew our ties with Brasland is an important ally in a… challenging part of the region.”

[Excalbia]

The Emperor smiled and gave a slight bow. “Thank you, Your Grace,” he said to the young Archduchess. “It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

The Emperor cast his eye over the entourage standing behind the young woman and nodded in their direction. Looking back to Carlota, he crossed his arms behind his back and turned his head to one side. “I must confess, Madam, that I am not familiar with your country. Culhuaca,I believe? Where is it located?”

Although they had not walked forward with her, the entourage immediately bowed or curtsied when the Emperor nodded to them.

"Culhuaca, yes," she confirmed. "It's an equatorial country located in the Western hemisphere. It stretches from deserts in the North to rainforests in the South with more temperate climates in between, where it's center of population lies." She smiled warmly. "Excalbia is as far north as I have ever been. I read a great deal about it preparing for this but it's a different thing to actually see. It's a lovely country."

“Thank you, Madam,” Emperor said with a smile, “but I suspect that the weather in your country is quite a bit milder. I’m sure that it’s lovely. I’m curious about the origin of your country’s name. Not long ago, I met with the Chairman of the State Committee of the Socialist People’s Fiefdom of Anahuac - a country in the equatorial regions of the Western Atlantic, our home region, if you will. To an untrained ear I hear linguistic similarities between Anahuac and Culhuaca. I wonder if there might be some ancient linguistic or ethnic connection.”

[Culhuaca]

“Thank you, Madam,” Emperor said with a smile, “but I suspect that the weather in your country is quite a bit milder. I’m sure that it’s lovely. I’m curious about the origin of your country’s name. Not long ago, I met with the Chairman of the State Committee of the Socialist People’s Fiefdom of Anahuac - a country in the equatorial regions of the Western Atlantic, our home region, if you will. To an untrained ear I hear linguistic similarities between Anahuac and Culhuaca. I wonder if there might be some ancient linguistic or ethnic connection.”

"It's very possible," Carlota said. "Anahuac sounds Nahuatl to me. Most of the territory of Culhuaca was ruled by the Culhuacan Nahuanl Empire before the coming of the Spanish. I'm sure my country's archaeologists would be interested to compare historical artifacts with those in this Anahuac. Regrettably, many of the religious artifacts of our pre-colonial past were destroyed by the Inquisition. We do know a fair amount. We know that they worshiped one great god associated with the sun and that in some ways they had shocking parallels to Christianity. They even revered the cross which, for them, was never an instrument of execution but simply a symbol of the sun. Other practices were less savory and, perhaps, shouldn't be discussed before dinner." She smiled. The bloody human sacrifices of pre-colonial Culhuaca were common knowledge to her. "A Socialist People's Fiefdom?"

[Excalbia]

"It's very possible," Carlota said. "Anahuac sounds Nahuatl to me. Most of the territory of Culhuaca was ruled by the Culhuacan Nahuanl Empire before the coming of the Spanish. I'm sure my country's archaeologists would be interested to compare historical artifacts with those in this Anahuac. Regrettably, many of the religious artifacts of our pre-colonial past were destroyed by the Inquisition. We do know a fair amount. We know that they worshiped one great god associated with the sun and that in some ways they had shocking parallels to Christianity. They even revered the cross which, for them, was never an instrument of execution but simply a symbol of the sun. Other practices were less savory and, perhaps, shouldn't be discussed before dinner." She smiled. The bloody human sacrifices of pre-colonial Culhuaca were common knowledge to her. "A Socialist People's Fiefdom?"

The Emperor nodded. “Indeed, I seem to recall that the ancient Tochtepec Empire - one of the Socialist People’s Fiefdom’s two precursor states - had ethnic ties to the Nahuatl people. Your may want to explore diplomatic relations with them.” The Emperor looked around the room for a moment. “If I see any of their representatives here, I will send them to you, Madam.”

The Emperor chuckled at her questioning of the Anahuacan state’s formal name. “Yes, it is an odd combination, isn’t it? But they are reasonable people. Particularly reasonable for communists.”

Looking again at the priest, the Emperor continued. “I take it that your country is a Catholic monarchy? I have great respect for the Catholic church, and two of our closest allies are Catholic monarchies. Of course, we are a Protestant monarchy, but in the end we are all Christians, are we not?”

[Culhuaca]

The Emperor nodded. “Indeed, I seem to recall that the ancient Tochtepec Empire - one of the Socialist People’s Fiefdom’s two precursor states - had ethnic ties to the Nahuatl people. Your may want to explore diplomatic relations with them.” The Emperor looked around the room for a moment. “If I see any of their representatives here, I will send them to you, Madam.”

The Emperor chuckled at her questioning of the Anahuacan state’s formal name. “Yes, it is an odd combination, isn’t it? But they are reasonable people. Particularly reasonable for communists.”

Looking again at the priest, the Emperor continued. “I take it that your country is a Catholic monarchy? I have great respect for the Catholic church, and two of our closest allies are Catholic monarchies. Of course, we are a Protestant monarchy, but in the end we are all Christians, are we not?”

"I think that would be interesting, sir," she says. "Mr. Acosta is my adviser on substantive foreign policy." She gestured briefly to the foreign ministry representative. "I think he might be a more comfortable contact with a Communist regime than I." She gave a small shrug and then smiled at the Emperor's reaction to her question. "Reasonable people. That's good to know." For Communists.

She followed the emperor's gaze to Father Silvano. "Yes, sir. We are a Catholic monarchy and, of course, we are all Christians. There are Protestants in Culhuaca. I don't believe your Church of Excalbia has a presence but there are Anglican and Baptist groups. Charismatic and Restorationist Christian groups have grown a lot in recent years." She paused, her blush returning. "I'm sorry, sir. Most Protestants don't consider Restorationism a part of Protestantism, do they?"

"A large majority of our people are Catholic and an overwhelming majority are Christian. The rest are mostly Jews, Muslims, and non-religious people, although there's also been a revival of some traditional indigenous belief systems. Adapted to modern conditions, of course." Which was a polite way of saying sacrifices were not allowed in Culhuaca. "Freedom of conscience and of worship is constitutionally protected in our country."

[A m e n r i a]

The Emperor of Excalbia officially started the event with a greeting speech. Heavenly Emperor Cheonsa, ever the eccentric introvert, wandered off with his arm around his concubine's to examine the room's decoration, ocassionally nodding in amazement of its beauty. If there was an aquarium, he would definitely

Their daughters, however, the twin vampires Carmilla and Camellia took a glass of water each and walked to the youngest people around and tried to talk to them.