Princess Henriette's Birthday Ball IC

[Vals Hyrserd]

https://forum.nationstates.net/viewtopic.php?f=4&t=467677

April 2019

"We should have it at the Museum!" exclaimed Princess Friederike with excitement. Princess Henriette, paused, not sure how to respond. She liked the idea of hosting her Ball at the National Museum in Prinzenbucht, but she resented the idea that her younger sister was planning her Ball. Still, the Museum was perfect, parties had been hosted there before, it was full of interesting artefacts, and would educate the foreign visitors about the land they were visiting.

"Okay, that's not a bad idea" began the birthday girl. "Papa, what do you think?"

The Grand Duke had been looking with pleasure on his two daughters, and had been reminiscing on when these two young ladies were just little girls. Some things never change, he thought. The question however brought him to the present. "Umm, I wonder if it is available. I suppose it is far enough in advance. I will ask Porter to call a try a make reservation" the monarch spoke in his typical stream of consciousness manner. "No, it shouldn't be too difficult. Of course we must arrange the decoration before hand."

This last comment although more concerned with the logistics of decorating a museum, inspired a lively debate about which color scheme would be best among the two Princesses. The Grand Duke left his daughters to their discussion to talk with Porter, the family's private secretary. As he left the room, he heard the exclamation "Oh, this is going to be so awesome!" and a smile crossed his face.

[Vals Hyrserd]

July 9th, the Day Before the Ball

Princess Henriette oversaw the finishing touches being put on the decorations. It being her party, she was left in charge of organizing it. Both her parents had independently stopped by, but had both left to attend to other duties. Her sisters of course helped, the eldest, Abigail even came home from university early for that purpose. And of course she had Porter.

At times like this, Porter really felt almost like he was one of the family. He had known all the kids since before they were born. Considering this, it was not surprising that he was happily whistling while working overtime to hang apricot streamers. He had already sent the caterers home and only a few museum employees remained.

"All it needs is the balloons" shouted Henriette from around the corner to Porter who was standing on a ladder near the whaling display.

"It is better to inflate them tomorrow, don't worry, I will take care of it" replied the loyal servant. "That way they will stay inflated for the party."

"Oh thank you!" was the grateful answer. Henriette knew she could trust Porter to not forget it.

"I am done with the astronomy department" stated Princess Abigail gracefully. "Lets go, there is no more to do."

"Where is Riekie?" inquired Henriette.

"She left an half hour ago" replied the older sister. "Come on. Good Bye Porter, till tomorrow!"

[Teressien]

Wilrun, Baronin von Port Monee.
Grand Duchy of Vals Hyrserd. At the National Museum.
Well, a little birthday soiree for a foreign Princess never hurt anyone. That was, after all, why I was here. Meeting people, making contacts, having fun - a soiree.
I had coined the term Soireediplomatie, after all.
Anyway, as I stepped out of the car, which had brought me to the venue, the neoclassical building of the National Museum in Prinzenbucht's Downtown, I could not help but feel a bit of giddiness in my chest.
I loved the moments before a soiree, especially when I was not the hostess.
I was a blonde, my long hair openly fluttering in the breeze, with 1.89 metres rather tall, which omitted the need for high heels (thank God). My blue eyes shone like sapphires as I strode forward, self-confident and conscious, wearing my favourite dress. My ears were decorated by two silver earrings, which glistered, nothing too large or overbearing, but one could see the two crosses.
I was of a slim built, with curves, where curves belonged, and a very soft, light skin.
My favourite dress was red, backless and shoulder free, very form hugging, made of Kyrenaian Silk. It was held up by a corsage, which closed around my upper body's front very much fitting to form. Trimmings in very slim, golden thread served as additional highlights, while a side slit on my left allowed for easy movement. A flower of silk served as a highlight of that left side, where, with every step, a thighhighs-dressed leg of wonderful proportions peeked through. Of course, I also wore lace-trimmed elbow gloves, a blue shawl completing the outfit.
I showed my invitation and gave my small present to a servant so that he could put it to the others, a small gift for the birthday child.
Oh, this was going to be fun!, I thought as I entered the entrance hall of the National Museum. The guest list promised as much!

[Kuronami]

Tonight was a sisterly occasion given Fine brought along her younger sister, Carpathia. Carpathia was suspecting perhaps Fine was attempting to use this as an excuse to set her up with someone, pah! As if Fine would know the first thing about dating! Well whatever, it was kind of nice to spend time with your big sister given her new responsibilities and her other big sister chasing a marriage abroad. Carpathia had her golden locks free but tied up with a nice hair bow; always the girly girl . Fine had an appropriately matching quite the outfit herself, her hair up in such a formal occasion.

Much of the trip here was the sisters getting caught up with each other, including Fine getting ahead of any potential pranks laid out by Carpathia. "Don't think I didn't see your post." Fine mused

"Come on, Fine, I was kidding, of course I'm not going to do anything, if I do, Bianca will probably tackle me to the floor."

"I don't even use shakers, I use sugar bowls."

"Still, I could have caramelized it with a little sulfur acid. Just needed to slip it into chemistry class."

"You are a little scamp, Carpathia, you're more like Eugene than any of the ladies of the family."

"Says the tomboy Empress." Carpathia jested back. "Speaking of, are you okay?"

"Of course why --- oh you heard that huh?"

"Of course I did! Fine, I know you and you tend to be rather rebelious so promise me you won't shirk your security detail?"

"I wouldn't worry much, Carpathia. Just part of the job."

"But this one left you shaken. Why?"

"No reason. Come on we're almost at the party and this isn't the time to worry about that."

"If you say so." Carpathia let it be, no sense arguing with her sister.

They did arrive at the museum on time ti seemed, not many other guests had arrived just yet. "A museum? You sure this is the right place?" Carpathia inquired. So many functions, galas and balls she'd been to, they were usually held at more lavish places, especially state functions.

"With confidence, Miladies." Their driver responded

"Unusual but there are always firsts for everything. Thank you sir" Fine thanked their driver and with her sister they strolled on inside. Indeed it was the right place given how decked out it was for decorations, like a true lady of class birthday party.

[Vals Hyrserd]

The Museums foyer was designed to impress. The architect had declared his intent that the museum should be "a palace of culture and learning." Thus the visitor was greeted by a large open room, with a grand staircase on each side. The walls were covered with neobaroque creme wall paper which contrasted with the dark green moulding. A large banner hung across the room, declaring "Happy Birthday Princess Henriette!" in a colorful brush script. To the guests right there was a large table for gifts, already displaying those sent from people who couldn't come. On the left was a taxidermy bear holding a sign welcoming the guests. Other animals were arranged around the foyer, along with other displays from the museum.

In the center of the foyer stood the birthday girl herself, Princess Henriette. Standing in an apricot dress and with flowers in her hair and a big smile on her face she welcomed the guests.

[Teressien]

The Museums foyer was designed to impress. The architect had declared his intent that the museum should be "a palace of culture and learning." Thus the visitor was greeted by a large open room, with a grand staircase on each side. The walls were covered with neobaroque creme wall paper which contrasted with the dark green moulding. A large banner hung across the room, declaring "Happy Birthday Princess Henriette!" in a colorful brush script. To the guests right there was a large table for gifts, already displaying those sent from people who couldn't come. On the left was a taxidermy bear holding a sign welcoming the guests. Other animals were arranged around the foyer, along with other displays from the museum.

In the center of the foyer stood the birthday girl herself, Princess Henriette. Standing in an apricot dress and with flowers in her hair and a big smile on her face she welcomed the guests.

Wilrun, Baronin von Port Monee.
Grand Duchy of Vals Hyrserd. Foyer of the National Museum.
As I entered, I entered with a small smile.
Very much like the Grand Museum in Hochheyde, this was. Designed to impress, the foyer large and spacious and already decorated for the occasion. I would bet, that this was done well in advance. Gifts were already on a table nearby, I spotted my little present amongst them.
There was a bear welcoming guests - certainly an unusual welcoming committee.
In any case, aware of other guests arriving (amongst them the Empress of Kuronami), I stepped up to the young woman in the centre of the foyer. Of course, I recognized her in her apricot dress, flowers in her hair.
God alone knew, why she wasn't drowning in suitors - or were the men around these parts blind?
I replied to her smile in kind. "Princess Henriette, what a pleasure to finally meet you in person. And happy birthday.", I said, my voice warm as my smile, as I bowed my head in respect to her, then offered my hand for a shake. "May your next year be full of success, luck, happy and merry things - and maybe even someone to spent a lot of time with!"
The last was accompanied by a teasing wink, as she was a single.

[Vals Hyrserd]

Henriette smiled as she took the baroness's hand and received the birthday wish. "Thank you so much for coming and for your kind words" she said. Not actually understanding the wink, she momentarily was confused, but then decided to ignore it. "How was your journey? I hope it was pleasant" she inquired.

[Kuronami]

Fine and Carpathia held back a moment allowing the Baroness to introduce herself and the exchange the pleasantries with the Princess. Once their turn was up Fine with her sister stepped forward. "Princess." Fine introduced with a slight bow and her sister followed her lead. "A happy birthday to you and thank you for having us as your guests."

"Happy birthday, Princess." Carpathia echoed "I hope it's a joyful day for you."

[Parina]

Prinzenbucht National Museum
The Margrave of Brittingham and his daughter were an eye-catching sight as they walked from their car towards the front of the National Museum. The two Parinans were both attired in clothing that was “retro” to say the least. The Margrave, John Cloves, was wearing a formal double-breasted frock coat of a dark blue that was nearly black. It was tailored to Cloves’ body, slimming and accenting a figure sculpted by military service and a still-active lifestyle. The lapels of the coat were trimmed in red lace, and an observer could see hints of the light grey waistcoat he wore underneath. Black formal trousers covered his legs, ending in a pair of riding boots that had the unmistakable design of a cavalry dress uniform. His daughter Minerva looked equally unique, wearing a formal dress modeled on a riding habit: a tailored jacket and long skirt made from bright red cloth. A white chemisette shirt peaked out from the jacket, and a pair of formal riding boots similar to those worn by the margrave peaked out from under the hemline of the skirt.

The two Parinans climbed up the steps to the front of the National Museum, pausing to take in the façade of the structure. The neoclassical style was familiar to them, because it was common back in Parina as well. They admired the design of the building, and then of the foyer inside.

“Seems like a nice place,” Minerva Cloves said to her father.

“It’s certainly an impressive display,” the Margrave replied dismissively. He did not sound particularly impressed. The stuffed bear holding the sign or the script used for the banner did not elicit any sort of reaction either. Minerva was much more delighted by the décor, similing at the setup.

“We should make our introductions,” John Cloves said. The two Parinans wandered over to where Princess Henriette was entertaining her well-wishers and took up a spot nearby to wait their turn.

[Teressien]

Henriette smiled as she took the baroness's hand and received the birthday wish. "Thank you so much for coming and for your kind words" she said. Not actually understanding the wink, she momentarily was confused, but then decided to ignore it. "How was your journey? I hope it was pleasant" she inquired.

Wilrun, Baronin von Port Monee.
Grand Duchy of Vals Hyrserd. Foyer of the National Museum.
Oh, God, she is adorable!, I thought at her momentary confusion.
"The flight was very pleasant and I did spent a few days around town already. It's a nice place. Reminds me a bit of Port Monee.", I said and smiled, "I would love to chat with you more later, but for now, I am afraid, that you have other guests to attend to as well." I let a beat pass, moved closer to her to whisper into her ear. "Maybe I can give you a few tips, too."
As I retreated, I winked at her with a smile, bowed my head and made way for another guest. I retreated to the halfway point between the presents table and Henriette, waiting to see, if there would be any interesting conversation partner coming up.

[Vals Hyrserd]

The princess wondered what sort of tips the Baroness would give her, and why she kept winking. However, she did not have much time to think about it, as the Empress of Kuronami had arrived with her sister, and were next in line.

"Welcome your Imperial Majesty!" exclaimed Henriette, who was honesty excited that a head of state and an Empress would attend her birthday party. "It is an honor to have you both here and I hope it is a joy for you as well. It is such an exciting thing to be 18, and to celebrate like this, it is such a privilege. I want everyone to share my excitement" replied the Birthday girl her excitement obvious in her manner as in her words.

Meanwhile, a footman carrying a tray of cocktails had silently entered the room and began to offer drinks to the guests, beginning with the Baroness.

After finishing speaking to the von Eylstadt sisters, she turned to the Parinans and greeted them warmly. She was happy to see another young lady about her age.

[Aurreliae]

The Emperor of Aurelia, Maximilian, arrived in a black car in the front of the National Museum, slightly confused as to why they'd host such a party at a museum. "Strange. Then again the National Museum of War in Constantinopole was a grand theater before being turned into museum by my grandfather in the 1920s." He thought as he took a small package wrapped in colorful paper from the car's backseat. He was escorted by two men in kevlar, while he wore a black suit with a tie, and on his chest a badge with the coat of arms of Aurelia. "I wore this only a few times, but I'm surprised it still fits me."

"Your Imperial Majesty, isn't it risky to have such a low number of guards?" Asked Marcus, his closest friend and advisor.

"We are here to establish diplomatic relations with Vals Hyrserd, not to scare them into submission." Max replied cheerfully. "And the place seems secure enough, adding to the fact that everyone has a personal guard here." He added.

"I guess it's true. I'll oversee the security. See you after it ends." Marc said as he and the two guards disappeared from Max's sight. He looked around at the other invitees, noticing among them various social classes, from nobles to royalty to commoners. He looked for the Grand Duke.

[Kuronami]

The princess wondered what sort of tips the Baroness would give her, and why she kept winking. However, she did not have much time to think about it, as the Empress of Kuronami had arrived with her sister, and were next in line.

"Welcome your Imperial Majesty!" exclaimed Henriette, who was honesty excited that a head of state and an Empress would attend her birthday party. "It is an honor to have you both here and I hope it is a joy for you as well. It is such an exciting thing to be 18, and to celebrate like this, it is such a privilege. I want everyone to share my excitement" replied the Birthday girl her excitement obvious in her manner as in her words.

Meanwhile, a footman carrying a tray of cocktails had silently entered the room and began to offer drinks to the guests, beginning with the Baroness.

After finishing speaking to the von Eylstadt sisters, she turned to the Parinans and greeted them warmly. She was happy to see another young lady about her age.

Fine smiled warmly "How I remember my 18th birthday. Even though I wasn't Empress then it was a spectacular event as I'm sure this one will be. Anyway, I shouldn't take up more of your time as I know you have many more guests who wish to give their salutations so excuse us for now. I hope we'll see each other again this evening."

Fine and Carpathia nodded moving along so the Princess could greet the next set of guests. "She seems nice" Carpathia remarked

"Mhm, A very nice girl. To think, Capathia, you're just a few short years from your 18th."

"Yikes, just thinking about it makes me nervous."

[Parina]

Meanwhile, a footman carrying a tray of cocktails had silently entered the room and began to offer drinks to the guests, beginning with the Baroness.

After finishing speaking to the von Eylstadt sisters, she turned to the Parinans and greeted them warmly. She was happy to see another young lady about her age.

The two Parinans listened to the Baroness speak with the Princess. It upset both of them to see someone so clearly more advanced in such matters - both in age and apparently experience - make the kind of comments that Baroness Wilrun was making to Henriette. Parinans were not prudes, but such forward talk of suitors and “tips” would never happen at an event like this back home. That it was coming from a person who was more than a decade older, a foreign guest, and, technically, of lower social rank than the Princess, made it all the more uncomfortable. John Cloves could already tell that he was not going to enjoy this night. He saw the footman walking around in the distance and resolved to fetch himself a drink as soon as possible once they were done with the necessary formalities. Minerva lightly nudged her father in the side.

“Try not to let anyone see you rolling your eyes, father,” she said in a jovial whisper. The Margrave of Brittingham chuckled and nodded. The two Parinans stepped forward in the line as the next guest ahead of them made their introductions. This one was even stranger: apparently the imperial ruler of a nation had nothing more pressing to attend to. John tried to imagine the way the press back home would react if the King of Parina flew off to take his place here at the party. And this Empress was almost half his age! “Remarkable country,” he murmured in bemused astonishment. Minerva nudged him again as they finally reached the front of the queue. The two Parinans stepped forward and made their formal bows to the Princess.

“Your royal highness, happy birthday,” John Cloves said as he rose from the bow. “I wish you nothing but the best of fortunes.” The Margrave gestured to the young woman next to him. “My daughter, Minerva,” he said.

“Happy birthday, your highness,” Minerva said. “You’ve thrown a wonderful party for the occasion.”

[Vals Hyrserd]

Henriette thanked the father and daughter for their birthday wishes. "Thank you" she replied to Minerva's complement. "I put a lot of effort into the decorations, and my sisters were kind enough to help me."

As she was speaking, a scrawny red head with pointed features walked in. He wore a badge on his chest, that suggested to the Princess he was some sort of herald or servant, but he looked familiar. Yes, that's it, I have seen his picture, the Emperor Maximilian. thought Henriette.

Just then, the Grand Duke entered, his wife on his arm and a proud smile on his face. Henriette proceeded to introduce her guests to her father, who greeted them all warmly. "Shall we go into the large hall?" he asked when the introductions were all over. Henriette responded by asking the guests to follow her through the nearby door and led them to a large room. On two sides were large windows, one looking out at the courtyard and the other on the park. From the ceiling hung not only lights, but various preserved fish.

Tables were set up as well as chairs around the edge. A string quartet played softly in the corner. Henriette's two sisters were waiting there, both dressed in festive dresses, along with the Grand Duke's nephew, Count Peter.

[Teressien]

Wilrun, Baronin von Port Monee.
Grand Duchy of Vals Hyrserd. Foyer of the National Museum.
When the butler with the drinks came, I took one, a small one for a few sips to wetten my lips, not much more. I would stay sober tonight, though I would not drive a vehicle.
Anyway, when Empress Ortfine and her little sister were finished with the birthday child, I was pondering, whether or not to make the acquaintance, but that was postponed as the Grand Duke, with his wife, both proud of their daughter, entered, with us being introduced.
When my turn came, I gave a small bow of my head, respectful, but not overly so. I was not here to crawl up anyone's arse.
Anyway, that all being done, we proceeded into the large hall, which deserved its name. A quartet of strings played softly in the corner and it seemed as if the ball-part of the evening was about to begin. Henriette's sisters were there, too, as well as Count Peter, who I recognized from images.
Now... who to approach first? The Grand Duke? Count Peter? Empress Ortfine and her sister? Someone else...? Hm... soiree diplomacy was more complicated then it looked.
In the end, I decided to go with a most promising partner.
I smiled as I approached Count Peter, my blue eyes sparkluing.
"Good evening, Count Peter.", I greeted and bowed my head lightly, "I am Wilrun, Baronin von Port Monee, but just Wilrun is fine tonight." I smiled and looked into the round, joining his side. "I must admit, that it is a bit unusual to be the guest at a Soiree and not its host."

[Aurreliae]

National Museum, Grand Duchy of Vals Hyrserd

When Max's turn came, he bowed respectfully and handed the Princess the colorful package, saying as he rose from the bow.

"May your nation be prosperous and your life peaceful. Happy Birthday, Your Highness."

He took a drink from the butler and then moved on with everyone else into the grand hall. "It's full of foreign people here. Many whom I'm sure don't know each others' nations even exist." He thought as he almost bumped into Fine.

"Excuse me, Empress of Kuronami." He said as he jumped slightly backwards on reflex. "Apologies. I'm Emperor Maximilian of Aurelia. Pleased to meet Your Imperial Majesty." He said as he smiled.

[Vals Hyrserd]

Wilrun, Baronin von Port Monee.
Grand Duchy of Vals Hyrserd. Foyer of the National Museum.
When the butler with the drinks came, I took one, a small one for a few sips to wetten my lips, not much more. I would stay sober tonight, though I would not drive a vehicle.
Anyway, when Empress Ortfine and her little sister were finished with the birthday child, I was pondering, whether or not to make the acquaintance, but that was postponed as the Grand Duke, with his wife, both proud of their daughter, entered, with us being introduced.
When my turn came, I gave a small bow of my head, respectful, but not overly so. I was not here to crawl up anyone's arse.
Anyway, that all being done, we proceeded into the large hall, which deserved its name. A quartet of strings played softly in the corner and it seemed as if the ball-part of the evening was about to begin. Henriette's sisters were there, too, as well as Count Peter, who I recognized from images.
Now... who to approach first? The Grand Duke? Count Peter? Empress Ortfine and her sister? Someone else...? Hm... soiree diplomacy was more complicated then it looked.
In the end, I decided to go with a most promising partner.
I smiled as I approached Count Peter, my blue eyes sparkluing.
"Good evening, Count Peter.", I greeted and bowed my head lightly, "I am Wilrun, Baronin von Port Monee, but just Wilrun is fine tonight." I smiled and looked into the round, joining his side. "I must admit, that it is a bit unusual to be the guest at a Soiree and not its host."

The young Count greeted the Baronin with a slight nod. "Do you host many Soirées then Madame? excuse me, Wilrun." Peter did not know what to think about the baroness. He had never heard if her and only had a vague idea about her country. She was certainly pretty and her dress, although not the Vals Hyrserd fashion did flatter her. What supriesd the Count most was her directness as she was more forward than the other women of baronial rank he had met.

[Teressien]

Wilrun, Baronin von Port Monee.
Grand Duchy of Vals Hyrserd. Foyer of the National Museum.
I did notice, that my directness was maybe a bit confusing to the young Count, but I had made the decision to be direct and open to him, so I would stick with him.
I nodded.
"Indeed, I do... I'm quite famous for it. To the point, that there are quite a few guests of state, who spent the evening at my soirees.", I said with a smile, "I even coined the term 'Soireediplomatie', which means soiree diplomacy." I let a beat pass. "What about you?"

[Kuronami]

National Museum, Grand Duchy of Vals Hyrserd

When Max's turn came, he bowed respectfully and handed the Princess the colorful package, saying as he rose from the bow.

"May your nation be prosperous and your life peaceful. Happy Birthday, Your Highness."

He took a drink from the butler and then moved on with everyone else into the grand hall. "It's full of foreign people here. Many whom I'm sure don't know each others' nations even exist." He thought as he almost bumped into Fine.

"Excuse me, Empress of Kuronami." He said as he jumped slightly backwards on reflex. "Apologies. I'm Emperor Maximilian of Aurelia. Pleased to meet Your Imperial Majesty." He said as he smiled.

Fine with her sister walked nearly bumping into someone, a party that was growing crowded by the moment it was to be expected. No harm done, Fine turned about to see The Emperor before her. Smiling she nodded "I'm glad my reputation precedes me. Emperor, how lovely it is to meet you. And this is my younger sister Carpathia."

"Pleasure." Carpathia responded. "did you get your chance to wish the Princess a Happy Birthday, I know how difficult it can be to great your hosts when it gets busy at a party like this."

[Aurreliae]

Fine with her sister walked nearly bumping into someone, a party that was growing crowded by the moment it was to be expected. No harm done, Fine turned about to see The Emperor before her. Smiling she nodded "I'm glad my reputation precedes me. Emperor, how lovely it is to meet you. And this is my younger sister Carpathia."

"Pleasure." Carpathia responded. "did you get your chance to wish the Princess a Happy Birthday, I know how difficult it can be to great your hosts when it gets busy at a party like this."

Max smiled and looked at Carpathia.

"Pleased to meet you too." He said as he bowed slightly in front of Carpathia. "What brings your Imperial Majesties to this party? Is it to, too, establish relations with Her Highness' Duchy? Oh, and yes, I did wish her a happy birthday, and I brought her a gift. Back in Aurelia it is a custom to bring gifts to the host, especially if it's an occasion such as this." He sips from his drink slowly. "I don't think our two Empires have established relations with each other, by the way." He said eagerly.

[Kuronami]

Max smiled and looked at Carpathia.

"Pleased to meet you too." He said as he bowed slightly in front of Carpathia. "What brings your Imperial Majesties to this party? Is it to, too, establish relations with Her Highness' Duchy? Oh, and yes, I did wish her a happy birthday, and I brought her a gift. Back in Aurelia it is a custom to bring gifts to the host, especially if it's an occasion such as this." He sips from his drink slowly. "I don't think our two Empires have established relations with each other, by the way." He said eagerly.

"Indeed it is, hoping to always branch out and meet new friends. And speaking of, you're right on the money there, we haven't had the pleasure of setting up relations between our two nations. So perhaps no time like the present and we can work out the finer details later."

[Aurreliae]

"Indeed it is, hoping to always branch out and meet new friends. And speaking of, you're right on the money there, we haven't had the pleasure of setting up relations between our two nations. So perhaps no time like the present and we can work out the finer details later."

"Those are great news. After all I'm sure we both lead powerful nations who'd benefit from knowing each other. And I agree, we shall discuss the details after the party ends, at a date suitable to both of us. Until then, let's enjoy the party and maybe learn about each others' nations, and more importantly, I'd assume, let's secure relations with the Grand Duchy, and celebrate Her Highnesses' 18th birthday." He said smiling.

[Draycora]

Grand Duchy of Vals Hyrserd. At the National Museum.
-- The Häkkinen Couple
A white limousine drove in front of the museum. The headlights were graced with the white-turquoise crossed flag of a distant nation: the Principality of Draycora. Inside the limousine sat two young but influential figures. The young man, just 27, was named Nyyrikki Häkkinen and bore the title of "Prince of Draycora". In the history of the country he was the youngest prince so far, at 23 he was elected to office. In Draycora, the head of state, the prince, is elected directly by the people, while retaining office and title for the rest of his life. After the death of the old prince, a new one is elected. The only requirement for a candidature is that a person has a doctorate in a humanities science. Nyyrikki had been a prodigy in his childhood and youth. At age fourteen he began his studies at the university in five subjects: philosophy, history, linguistics, political science and economics. He had a doctorate in the first subject at the age of twenty-two years.
Next to him, lying first in his arms, but now straightening up, was his wife, Lady Mhaire. This marriage is three years old and took place when the prince was already in office. But they had already met at the university before. She was nineteen and he was eighteen. She studied in the second semester (musicology and philosophy) and he was already in his master's program.

The couple's driver opened the door of the limousine so the two nobles can get out. The prince went ahead and shook hands with his loved one to help her get out. Arm in arm, they walked toward the building.
"A ball in a museum," said Lady Mhaire. "That's something new, too".
"That's right," the prince answered, talking in both Finnish. "There was no such thing on all the balls I and we were in. I like such idiosyncrasies and unusual things, they promise an exciting evening".
"Well, it's the birthday of a little princess, I think that promises some peculiarities and unusual things that we can expect," the lady smiled. "Although you could say we should not be surprised anymore".
The prince also began to smile. He knew what his wife meant.

Balls, soirees and dinner parties are something he often visited. They are typical for the Elvish educational bourgeoisie. Since he became prince, he often met with the heads of state of the world and was therefore often invited in festivals in foreign countries. This was one of the benefits of his job: many celebrations and galas, many trips and financial security for the rest of his life. Of course he had to dedicate himself to the Principality for the rest of his life, but Nyyrikki loved his position. The celebrations and societies were wonderful and he learned a variety of customs and cultures. But this also caused inconvenience. As once in the Epistocratic Confederation of Sophistan, where he had landed on a nudist and swinger Soiree. This fear he did not have at this ball.

The couple entered the museum building. You would probably notice, because her face was wrapped in a typical, elven opulence. The prince wore a dark blue, baroque tailcoat, which glittered in the light of the house. His blond, long hair was tied in a drooping ponytail. In his left hand he held a golden walking stick, the handle of which represented a red bead. He used it to go, although he did not need a walker.
Lady Mhaire was wrapped in a burgundy evening gown, which was opened at the lower side according to Elvish custom, so that one could see her leg. Her auburn hair fell open over her free shoulders.
The couple entered the ballroom now.

[Parina]

Henriette thanked the father and daughter for their birthday wishes. "Thank you" she replied to Minerva's complement. "I put a lot of effort into the decorations, and my sisters were kind enough to help me." Just then, the Grand Duke entered, his wife on his arm and a proud smile on his face. Henriette proceeded to introduce her guests to her father, who greeted them all warmly.

“I have two older brothers,” Minerva confessed to Henriette. “Both of them acquired commissions in the Royal Army. They were useful for scaring boys away, but not party planning.” Minerva laughed. “Sisters are much more useful.” She smiled, thinking about Edward and Henry and the last time they had all been together. They had been granted some leave time to return home after the short conflict with neighboring Mount Zeon, and they’d regaled her and her father with tales of waiting tensely for an enemy attack across the border that never came. She was glad that neither of them had been assigned to one of the units that had actually seen combat, even if they both lamented missing out on a chance to prove themselves as leaders of their men.

“Your Royal Highness,” the Margrave said deferentially to the Grand Duke when he was introduced. “It is an honor to meet you. I also bring greetings from His Majesty, the King of Parina, who hopes that our two nations might use this occasion to build strong ties of friendship and good favor. And this is my daughter, Minerva,” he said with a gesture towards the young woman, who curtsied to the Grand Duke.

With the rest of the guests, the Margrave and his daughter made their way into the large hall.