A Volatile's Queen Garden Party (IC)

[AHSCA]

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
"Not only on her.", Fara confirmed with a nod, which was not only a little pointer into my direction. I understood the message: Get yer bloody act together! Meanwhile, Fara continued: "But yes, a peek on the guest list is sometimes not a bad idea - on the other hand, it spoils the surprise. It depends on the person."
"Speaking of which, Grandmother has given me a message for you again. I don't have it with me right now, it's aboard the Alshaahin...", I said, smiling a bit sheepishly, "...but how about you come over for a Midnight Snack later?" I paused for a moment, then looked to Fara. "We can do that, right?"
"Hey, it's your father's vessel!", she said with a smile, "Who you invite aboard or not is your thing to decide. He gave you temporary ownership, after all."
I grinned and turned back to Marcella: "So, what do you think?"

Apparently, the action had happened too quickly to give Yuri Petrenko, his wife Patricia and her friend Catherine Smetov any time to react or greet either women before they talked to each other.
Anyway, for this party, Yuri is wearing black tie in black color, with a scarlet shirt and a blue cummerbund, as well as black dress shoes. Instead of a bow tie, hanging around his neck, a medal, with a blue ribbon holding it around the neck, and the pendant being made in gold, representing a skull with a visor cross, and circled by the words: 157th Scarlet American Imperial Sniper Cup.
Patricia, for her part, is wearing a pair of sandals and a simple white dress, leaving her shoulders and back exposed, held by a golden collar around her neck. Her hair is arranged in a simple ponytail with a red clasp. Hanging from her shoulder, a white leather bag with a sling made of white pearls.
Catherine, her friend and lover, is wearing a light blue dress very similar to her friend, also leaving the back and shoulders exposed and held by a silver collar around the neck. Her shoes are flat ones, colored white, and she is also carrying a white leather bag with a sling made of pearls. Her hair is not attached at all, flowing freely down her back and ending in the middle.
And finally, let's not forget Grand Duke Phillip Smetov, who is watching everything with a little smirk, dressed in a deep blue attire, with a black shirt and cummerbund and a white bow tie, with black shoes as well.
A final thing to remember, is that the two men are wearing on their heads the iconic black beret of the Imperial Guard with their Squadron's emblem on it.

As the four Scarlet Americans look at the scene then at each other, they give each other small looks of approval.
"Ahem, starts the Baron Petrenko as he clears his throat, a bit loudly, to catch everyone's attention. Sorry to interrup Ladies, but I believe we were starting to greet each other, so let's restart if you don't mind."
With that said, the young man takes a deep breath, before looking at the two Kyrenaian Princesses with a warm smile.
"Good afternoon to you Aurelia-Amira, Fara-Amira, he says, using their Kyrenaian titles. It is good to see you both as well, and in good health, especially after what happened this summer. If I may say, those dresses fit you very well.
Duchess Marcella, he continues as he turns to the AHSCA Monarch and salutes her by bowing with his hand on his heart, it is a great pleasure to meet you at last. I am Baron Yuri Petrenko, and I have the honor to serve the Emperor as part of his Personal Guard.
If I may introduce, this is my friend and co-worker Grand Duke Phillip Smetov.
-An honor to meet you Your Highness, says Phillip as he bows as well. And a pleasure to see you again Princesses, he adds to the two Kyrenaian women.
-And our wives, Patricia Petrenko and Catherine Smetov, finishes Yuri as he points to the two women.
-A pleasure to meet you, say the both of them as they bow as well. Well Duchess, continues Catherine, I didn't hknow that the Sultanate and your Islands were this close, so thank you for telling this to us. Did you know they were this close Patricia? asks the blonde noblewoman as she turns to her friend.
-Not at all, I just discovered it now just like you, replies Patricia, although a very, very tiny bit of sarcasm could be heard in her tone of voice.
-Jokes aside, your Highness, says Phillip to Marcella, Ii just want to inform you that His Imperial Majesty Emperor Anaximander Blachkov is suppose to have a talk in private with Princess Aurelia here concerning private matters. After that, he wishes to speak with you and her concerning certains....mishaps, if you'll allow me this word, that concerns some past events that involved our two countries. I believe that's pretty much everything, isn't it Yuri? he asks to his friend.
-Indeed, Phillip, replies the Baron, I don't have anything to add. Now, Princesses, if you'll please follow me, I'll lead you to the Emperor."

"Of course, I'm always eager to share in the company of you two but I also do respect the bounds of it being your father's vessel." Now she wish she could have come here under her own power, it would be a nice work around "But if you will have me late this night, I would be delighted. If the Sultana has a message for me, perhaps it won't be of disrespect for Aurelia to invite me aboard."

She returned her attention to her hosts who talked and complimented them both "Thank you." She responded to the praises for how she was dressed. And it seemed neither had knew about the relations between Kyrenaia and AHSCA. Well, maybe one did, she had a hint of sarcasm on her voice, not sure what that was about, but it seemed to annoy Aurelia. Even when she's annoyed she's cute! Marcella thought to herself. Well it didn't matter, not many paid much attention to the UIS anyway, even most of the GD's regional neighbors left them alone.

"Pleasure is ours, or mine at least, I shouldn't speak for all, that's rude of me. Yes a pleasure to meet you all." It seemed the Emperor wanted a private meeting with Aurelia then about her with mishaps. It took a moment to think what he was talking about but it dawned on her quick enough it must have been the fuss with a ship off their coast and a few military vehicles being spotted here and there.

"Oh yes, I would appreciate that very much."

[Global Harran]

Of course, I'm always eager to share in the company of you two but I also do respect the bounds of it being your father's vessel." Now she wish she could have come here under her own power, it would be a nice work around "But if you will have me late this night, I would be delighted. If the Sultana has a message for me, perhaps it won't be of disrespect for Aurelia to invite me aboard."

She returned her attention to her hosts who talked and complimented them both "Thank you." She responded to the praises for how she was dressed. And it seemed neither had knew about the relations between Kyrenaia and AHSCA. Well, maybe one did, she had a hint of sarcasm on her voice, not sure what that was about, but it seemed to annoy Aurelia. Even when she's annoyed she's cute! Marcella thought to herself. Well it didn't matter, not many paid much attention to the UIS anyway, even most of the GD's regional neighbors left them alone.

"Pleasure is ours, or mine at least, I shouldn't speak for all, that's rude of me. Yes a pleasure to meet you all." It seemed the Emperor wanted a private meeting with Aurelia then about her with mishaps. It took a moment to think what he was talking about but it dawned on her quick enough it must have been the fuss with a ship off their coast and a few military vehicles being spotted here and there.

"Oh yes, I would appreciate that very much."

---

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
We returned the greeting properly, but, to be honest, I didn't like the sarcastic tone of both Catherina and Patricia - they were not going to win brownie points with that. Well, I guess, that it was rather unimportant to them and, to be honest, to me it was, too... unless it continued.
In any case, I nodded.
"Yeah, there was something...", I said, then turned to Marcella, explaining to her: "My good friend..." The way I spoke that revealed, that at this moment, he was not exactly in my best graces, but I still considered him a friend - it is a very nuanced tone. "...spilled a personal secret and, well, he asked for me to come so that we could talk it out in person, which I personally find better."
Parallels to a certain other situation in mine and Marcella's shared past came to mind.
"Say, Baron...", I said to Yuri, "...do you think, that Anaximander-Qayssar would mind it terribly, if Marcella would come along? For the talk between him and me, I mean."
It did pertain her, in a way, as she was my girlfriend. I did not like having to keep secrets from her.

Liliane Lile of the Tribe of Fermanagh.
Kendra, as the man began namedropping, glanced to me and when he was finished, I shrugged.
"Never heard of those dudes, sorry, but I suppose, that they were kind-of important around these parts.", I said and shrugged, "Anyway, we breed horses for all sorts of things, from fieldwork, cattleherding work - Leonard can tell you more about that - forestry work to draught of carriages, sports and other means. Horses still are one of the major ways of getting around in our parts." I let a beat pass. "What is coming up more and more, and what I personally support wholeheartedly, is therapy riding, or rather Equine-Assisted Therapy. People from all over the world come to our lands to do that and... as long as it helps, I'm onboard."
Kendra nodded.

When Aurelia asks if Anaximander would mind Marcella's presence during his talk with Aurelia, Yuri raises an eyebrow, before shrugging.
"Honestly, I don't know Aurelia-Amira, replies the male Petrenko. What do you think? he asks his wife and friends.
-Let me make a call, replies Phillip before opening his vest's left side with hs left hand, while he grabs his smartphone from the interior pocket with his right. In doing this however, he would reveal for a split second the sight of a pistol in a shoulder hoslter, with a richly engraved and decorated stock. The sight of it would most likely not bother Aurelia and Fara, who knew the Imperials better than Marcella, but the young Duchess would maybe react differently.
"Eagle 1, Alpha 1-1, says the young Smetov in his phone after a few seconds. I have Archer here who wants to bring Islander along with Swimmer, during your talk... Yeah, okay.... Okay, I'll tell her... Of course Yuri will tell them! This kind of event can't stay unsaid!.... All right, see you later." he finishes before hanging up, putting his phone back in his vest's left interior pocket, and turning back to the guests and his friends.
"So, Princess, he's okay with you bringing the Duchess. Honey, you'll be there too as medical support, and to balance things. He has trouble changing his bandages, so you'll have to help him.
-Roger that sweetheart, replies Catherine with a smile and a nod before exchanging a quick peck on the lips with her husband.
-And Yuri, don't forget to tell them about it, continues the Grand Duke, accentuating the last word.
-Oh come one, who do you take me for? asks Yuri with a slightly angry tone. Do you really think that I would left it unsaid?
-Not at all, simply replies Phillip.
-Good, finishes Yuri. Now, Princesses, Duchess, if you'll please follow me, says the Baron as he turns towards the Mansion standing on top of the rock (and the path leading to it), the three women in tow, Catherine bringing up the rear.

---

"Ah yes, Equine-Assisted Therapy, replies Volkan with a nod. Surprisingly, of all the therapies the new government used after the outbreak to help sooth minds among our citizens, especially children, it was the one that ended up giving the best results. As for what precise activities work the best in this case, it is guided horse riding and obstacle trials initiations.
So, Miss Mile, would you mind telling me more about your career as a Marchach? I've been planning for some time now a trip to the Free Lands to see some Marchachs in actions, but I would like to hear first what it's like, how do yoi get into this sport, that sort of thing."

"So, Miss Schiamhach, says Brecken to Kendra, how is Mr Crionna of the Tribe of Louth doing? If I may say, I have read many of his works, and they helped me greatly to adapt to my new job when I was appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs by the Queen. Can you please relay my salutations to him? And also, do you think he would accept an invitation to come here?"

[The Selkie]

When Aurelia asks if Anaximander would mind Marcella's presence during his talk with Aurelia, Yuri raises an eyebrow, before shrugging.
"Honestly, I don't know Aurelia-Amira, replies the male Petrenko. What do you think? he asks his wife and friends.
-Let me make a call, replies Phillip before opening his vest's left side with hs left hand, while he grabs his smartphone from the interior pocket with his right. In doing this however, he would reveal for a split second the sight of a pistol in a shoulder hoslter, with a richly engraved and decorated stock. The sight of it would most likely not bother Aurelia and Fara, who knew the Imperials better than Marcella, but the young Duchess would maybe react differently.
"Eagle 1, Alpha 1-1, says the young Smetov in his phone after a few seconds. I have Archer here who wants to bring Islander along with Swimmer, during your talk... Yeah, okay.... Okay, I'll tell her... Of course Yuri will tell them! This kind of event can't stay unsaid!.... All right, see you later." he finishes before hanging up, putting his phone back in his vest's left interior pocket, and turning back to the guests and his friends.
"So, Princess, he's okay with you bringing the Duchess. Honey, you'll be there too as medical support, and to balance things. He has trouble changing his bandages, so you'll have to help him.
-Roger that sweetheart, replies Catherine with a smile and a nod before exchanging a quick peck on the lips with her husband.
-And Yuri, don't forget to tell them about it, continues the Grand Duke, accentuating the last word.
-Oh come one, who do you take me for? asks Yuri with a slightly angry tone. Do you really think that I would left it unsaid?
-Not at all, simply replies Phillip.
-Good, finishes Yuri. Now, Princesses, Duchess, if you'll please follow me, says the Baron as he turns towards the Mansion standing on top of the rock (and the path leading to it), the three women in tow, Catherine bringing up the rear.

---

"Ah yes, Equine-Assisted Therapy, replies Volkan with a nod. Surprisingly, of all the therapies the new government used after the outbreak to help sooth minds among our citizens, especially children, it was the one that ended up giving the best results. As for what precise activities work the best in this case, it is guided horse riding and obstacle trials initiations.
So, Miss Mile, would you mind telling me more about your career as a Marchach? I've been planning for some time now a trip to the Free Lands to see some Marchachs in actions, but I would like to hear first what it's like, how do yoi get into this sport, that sort of thing."

"So, Miss Schiamhach, says Brecken to Kendra, how is Mr Crionna of the Tribe of Louth doing? If I may say, I have read many of his works, and they helped me greatly to adapt to my new job when I was appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs by the Queen. Can you please relay my salutations to him? And also, do you think he would accept an invitation to come here?"

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
When we listened to one half of the phone conversation and the following exchange, we smiled in bemusement. They were trying to scare us, but we knew one thing, which they sorely lacked knowledge about.
Still, the sight of the pistols did not bother us - in fact, it would have been weirder to see them without their little toys. I still had money on them being compensating for something with their toys, but we would never know for certain.
Still.
"We'll see each other soon.", Fara said and nodded to the Alphas staying behind. I gave them a cheery wave of a goodbye.
We began to follow the Baron, Fara with her back to Marcella and me.
I walked up next to Marcella, my hand softly brushing hers every now and again - oh, how I wanted to just grab her hand to drag her into a corner to greet her properly! Still... diplomatic decorum.

Liliane Lile of the Tribe of Fermanagh.
I nodded - indeed, Equine-Assisted Therapy showed a surprising amount of positive responses, both from parents and from children. A horse, in and of itself, could be a gentle creature, but they could also... not be.
And he asked about the times, where they weren't next.
"It's actually rather easy to get into the sport. You need a horse, you need the skills either with the sword, the lance or the bow and you can register with the Marcach Guild of Redruth.", I said, "Starting by age 10, mind you. You have to make an entrance exam, both theoretical and practical, which is quite hard, and then you are a member of the Junior League until you are of fifteen Springs. During these five years, you can participate in the Youth Cups you qualify for. Important to keep in mind is, that the Guild keeps a very close eye on its contestants, both on the field and off of it, especially when it comes to health and schoolwork, the latter to the point, that the Guild can exclude a Junior if he or she runs the risk of failing a grade. Of course, one can also join as an adult, but those are usually people doing it as a hobby." I smiled slightly. "I can not speak for fencers or sworddancers, but that's how it generally is for us Riding Marcach."

Kendra Sciamhach of the Tribe of Waterford.
I smiled slightly - he had read Daideo's books and he learned from them - Daideo would be thrilled to hear that!
"Daideo is doing fine. He reads and writes and tends to a little garden, but with winter coming up and one arm useless, it is hard for him.", I said and my shoulders hung slightly. That Liberation Day Celebration in Karlsland, that had led to one heck of a clusterfuck, including Operation Spartacus and what would follow from it... I collected myself and smiled at the Minister of Foreign Affairs. "I'll off course relay your best wishes to him, it will be my pleasure. I am, however, afraid, that he'll decline such an invitation. He stepped down from politics and to quote him, 'that's final.'" I let a beat pass. "You would make his day with it, however, so I would ask you to send it anyway."

[A m e n r i a]

A man approached Hanbyeol. Aside from the fact that he was a mountain of a man, standing at over two metres, he seemed mostly normal. She accepted his hand, smiling gently and replying to him. "Good evening" with a slight nod. "This is certainly different than what I'm used to, the ones to interact with eum...undead are usually my sisters Camilla and Camellia." She suddenly realized she might have said something sensitive. "Oh, I'm sorry, was that offensive? I-I didn't know how else to address your people..perhaps you'll tell me the appropriate way?"

[AHSCA]

-Good, finishes Yuri. Now, Princesses, Duchess, if you'll please follow me, says the Baron as he turns towards the Mansion standing on top of the rock (and the path leading to it), the three women in tow, Catherine bringing up the rear.

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
When we listened to one half of the phone conversation and the following exchange, we smiled in bemusement. They were trying to scare us, but we knew one thing, which they sorely lacked knowledge about.
Still, the sight of the pistols did not bother us - in fact, it would have been weirder to see them without their little toys. I still had money on them being compensating for something with their toys, but we would never know for certain.
Still.
"We'll see each other soon.", Fara said and nodded to the Alphas staying behind. I gave them a cheery wave of a goodbye.
We began to follow the Baron, Fara with her back to Marcella and me.
I walked up next to Marcella, my hand softly brushing hers every now and again - oh, how I wanted to just grab her hand to drag her into a corner to greet her properly! Still... diplomatic decorum.

Marcella still smiled at Aurelia, no doubt she was probably feeling what she was feeling now, just wanting to throw herself on her but of course it's a party, that would be improper. Even though they saw each other recently, it was always a sad occasion when they had to part company. But for now she was mentally prepping for her meeting. "Yes, I look forward to hearing what the Sultana has written for me and to spend some alone time with the both of you. I shall come by late tonight to have a quiet session with just the two of you." Or the one, whatever happened happened tonight but that would have to wait. She then turned to face the guides who would guide them along, "Yes, please, lead the way."

[Kuronami]

When the two Kuronami women approach them, Kyle and Jade, who had been talking very normally until now, suddenly turn towards them with their arms raised in front of them.
"Braaaiiiiinnns, says the couple as one with raspy voices as they advance towards the two guests, before stopping after a few meters and laughing a bit.
-Sorry, I'll never get tired of that joke, says the Prime Minister as he wipes a small tear from his eye, before readjusting the green beret he is wearing on his head, a token of his time in the Empire's Special Forces. Sorry if we have scared you Your Excellencies, he adds with an apologetic smile and a small bow. Kyle Crane, for mer Green Beret and Prime Minister of the Queendom. My girlfriend, Jade Aldemir, former three-time kickboxing world champion, and Minister of Culture and Education.
-A pleasure, addq Jade with a smile. And sorry about that joke too. Nonetheless, I hope you'll enjoy your time with us tonight."

(Note: Crane is wearing a dark green tuxedo and pants, with a black shirt and a bolo tie, while Aldemir is wearing a blue dress which leaves the left shoulder exposed, as well as a bit of cleavage. Her hair is pulled back in a bun.)

Both women went wide eyed a bit when suddenly it felt like they were in a old black and white B-movie about brain hungry zombies but it was a simple joke. Well both a bit taken a back they got a laugh. "My my. Good sense of humor I see. Ladies a good pleasure to meet you both. I think we'll enjoy ourselves plenty with such a nice party."

[Metcalfer2]

William mentally sighed, of course the Volatiles she tried to capture were military, bloody typical but best to put on his most regretful voice and try to keep things at a simmer. William nodded his head with a small well meaning smile “My deepest apologies, you know how scientists can be, more brains than commonsense, anyway there is no need to bear arms, we come bearing peaceful intentions, Basil how peaceful are our intentions?” Basil replied with a deadpan voice “incredibly peaceful, more peaceful than Gandhi” William gave a small laugh as he turned to Basil “whoa, hey maybe not that peaceful, that and I don’t want to be equated with Gandhi because of that weird stuff he did with those women and his grandniece, I don’t even have a niece to do weird stuff with”.

William froze as he realised why the guards were looking at him like he was a creep, turning to Basil the look on his guards face was all the confirmation that he needed to know he was garbage at talking. Suppressing the urge to snap his own neck he turned back to the guards “sorry about that, I’m not good at talking, that and even if I had a niece I wouldn’t do anything weird, I would be that uncle that you think is the cool one who gave you bourbon when your mum wasn’t looking but you don’t see them often because they showed up to grandmas birthday while incredibly drunk and brandishing a gun, bonus points if I show up with a prostitute named Candice with a q instead of a c” William pointed at a nearby guard “this guy knows what I’m talking about am I right” the guard gave a nod while saying a yeah in confirmation.

Noticing the looks on the other guards faces William realised that he was making them all incredibly uncomfortable “any way back to the original question our trip was uneventful, how has your guys day been?” William turned back to Basil while mouthing nailed it, much to the disappointment of Basil.

With a nod from their commanding NCO, all the Volatile Guards lower their rifles, before slinging them across their backs again and returning tho their original spots.
"Well, this day has been pretty uneventful, replies the Sergeant with a neutral tone, but a bit warmer than before. Getting up, and preparing for the arrival of the guests, and that's pretty much it."
However, before he can continue, he is interrupted by another Volatile coming towards him, dressed in the same uniform, and whose rank indicate he is a Captain.
"Hey Sergeant, are they the ones? asks the Volatile, this one being of the blue variety, rexognizable by his blue skin tone.
-Yes Sir! replies Cherif as he salutes the officer. Gentlemen, he continues as he drops the salute and tunrs back to the guests, this is our commanding officer, Captain Amir Dahkrim. He will lead you to the Queen if you are ready, he finishes as he hands their passports back to the Kaiser and his guard.
-Gentlemen, says Captain Dakrim as he salutes sharply, if you'll please follow me, Her Royal Highness Queen Jasmine Morenai is expecting you."

[Note: sorry for the late reply]

Giving a curt smile while putting away his passport William gave his reply “thank you, we will are more than ready to meet the queen” as the two men began to follow the blue Volatile William gave one more response to the guards “may you have a pleasant night gentlemen, best of luck”.

While walking through the well lit hallways the two men continued conversing (this time in Metcalfern) with Basil getting the first word “could of gone better, could of gone significantly worse” “oh shut up, you aren’t going to let me live that down are you” Basil shrugged “no, not really” in a sardonic voice William retorted “you know that it is well within my power to have you killed” “oh please, you love it when I make fun of you” “no I don’t” “(chuckle) well fair enough, that and if I was dead my wife would probably kill you” “[i]that I don’t doubt, how is she by the way?[/i]” Basil gave a chortled sigh “she has convinced herself to try and get into cooking again, it is going as well as it did last time” “oof, sounds unpleasant but it could be worse I guess” “that is true, but any way I’m truly not surprised that of all the Volatiles that live here that Grinderman tried to kidnap soldiers.”

“Please stop, there is only so much I can take before I have a conniption, Grinderman is going to get a good tongue lashing over this, and depending on much this embarrasses us there might be an actual lashing” taking a breath to compose himself William continued “I hope that the food here is good, I haven’t eaten anything in six hours and need something to take my mind of this absurdity”

[Global Harran]

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
When we listened to one half of the phone conversation and the following exchange, we smiled in bemusement. They were trying to scare us, but we knew one thing, which they sorely lacked knowledge about.
Still, the sight of the pistols did not bother us - in fact, it would have been weirder to see them without their little toys. I still had money on them being compensating for something with their toys, but we would never know for certain.
Still.
"We'll see each other soon.", Fara said and nodded to the Alphas staying behind. I gave them a cheery wave of a goodbye.
We began to follow the Baron, Fara with her back to Marcella and me.
I walked up next to Marcella, my hand softly brushing hers every now and again - oh, how I wanted to just grab her hand to drag her into a corner to greet her properly! Still... diplomatic decorum.



Marcella still smiled at Aurelia, no doubt she was probably feeling what she was feeling now, just wanting to throw herself on her but of course it's a party, that would be improper. Even though they saw each other recently, it was always a sad occasion when they had to part company. But for now she was mentally prepping for her meeting. "Yes, I look forward to hearing what the Sultana has written for me and to spend some alone time with the both of you. I shall come by late tonight to have a quiet session with just the two of you." Or the one, whatever happened happened tonight but that would have to wait. She then turned to face the guides who would guide them along, "Yes, please, lead the way."

"Indeed, replies Phillip to Fara before she leaves, we'll see you again with the rest concerning the mishaps in the UIS."

As the small group led by Yuri walks through the garden towards the mansion and the path leading up to it, no words are exchanged between the Imperials and the guests. (Although by a small glance exchanged with Catherine, Yuri confirms his feeling that he feels the Duchess and her Kyrenaian girlfriend would indeed enjoy some quality time together.)
However, as they arrive at the foot of the path leading up the rock towards the mansion, the Baron extends his arm, signalling for the group to stop.
"Before we continue, I have something important to tell you. I'm sure you have understood it by the words I exchanged with Phillip."
As he says that, he takes something with his right hand in his vest's left inside pocket (and also revealing for a split second the decorated stock of a M1911 in a shoulder holster.) As his hand leaves the vest, he reveals to Fara, Aurelia and Marcella a small photography.
On it, the image of what appears to be the neck of a person, taken while said person was lying down. However, the neck in question is riddled with stictches on its left side, and the skin is nearly purple all over the surface of the wound. A small detail that might catch Aurelia's attention, and help her identify whose neck it is, is the fact that the left cheek of the wounded person is also visible, revealing a large, horizontal scar.

"As you see, this is a nasty wound, says Catherine. The person on this photo barely escaped death, although I'm sure Aurelia and Fara-Amira will not have difficulties recognizing who it is.
-Yup, continues Yuri. I'll get straight to the point, you weren't the only ones who suffered an attack on a monarch this year.
So, September, 15, 2019, 8.30PM local time at the Blachkov DC Downtown Hospital. Anaximander, who has been working for the past month at the Emergency Response Department as a physician, is doing his last shift before the end of his training period. At this moment, a person who was picked up by paramedics, apparently for an ethylic coma.
As he performs the first examinations on the patient, the latter suddenly rises up from his stretcher and bites him at the throat. And unfortunately, this guy manages to land a perfect hit, tearing apart flesh and also the left carotid artery, meaning that Anax was starting to loose blood rapidly.
So, what happens after that you might ask? Well, the patient who bit him was restrained, while Anax's neck was compressed to stop him loosing more of his precious red fluid. He was operated immediatly, and stayed four days in a coma. Fortunately, the Palace managed to put a tight lid on this story, so that's why it didn't got out.
But what really surprised us, is what he thought of first when he woke up. His first words were not about his wife, or his family, his friends, or even his country.
No, his first words were, and I quote: "I can't die yet, I don't want to leave while still being at odds with Aurelia."
So now you have your answer Princess, says the Baron to Aurelia, as to why he specifically requested your presence at this party. He nearly dies, and his first thoughts upon awakening are for you.
Now, I'm not saying this to try and influence you towards being benevolent with him during your discussion, far from me this idea. What I would like to ask you, and the others Alpha by extension, would be that before you nuclearize him or whatever you want to do with him, at least listen to him before that. That's all we would like." finishes the Baron Petrenko with a small bow, as his eyes are a bit misty, just like Catherine, the both of them clearly sad that they have nearly lost a best friend.

Liliane Lile of the Tribe of Fermanagh.
I nodded - indeed, Equine-Assisted Therapy showed a surprising amount of positive responses, both from parents and from children. A horse, in and of itself, could be a gentle creature, but they could also... not be.
And he asked about the times, where they weren't next.
"It's actually rather easy to get into the sport. You need a horse, you need the skills either with the sword, the lance or the bow and you can register with the Marcach Guild of Redruth.", I said, "Starting by age 10, mind you. You have to make an entrance exam, both theoretical and practical, which is quite hard, and then you are a member of the Junior League until you are of fifteen Springs. During these five years, you can participate in the Youth Cups you qualify for. Important to keep in mind is, that the Guild keeps a very close eye on its contestants, both on the field and off of it, especially when it comes to health and schoolwork, the latter to the point, that the Guild can exclude a Junior if he or she runs the risk of failing a grade. Of course, one can also join as an adult, but those are usually people doing it as a hobby." I smiled slightly. "I can not speak for fencers or sworddancers, but that's how it generally is for us Riding Marcach."

Kendra Sciamhach of the Tribe of Waterford.
I smiled slightly - he had read Daideo's books and he learned from them - Daideo would be thrilled to hear that!
"Daideo is doing fine. He reads and writes and tends to a little garden, but with winter coming up and one arm useless, it is hard for him.", I said and my shoulders hung slightly. That Liberation Day Celebration in Karlsland, that had led to one heck of a clusterfuck, including Operation Spartacus and what would follow from it... I collected myself and smiled at the Minister of Foreign Affairs. "I'll off course relay your best wishes to him, it will be my pleasure. I am, however, afraid, that he'll decline such an invitation. He stepped down from politics and to quote him, 'that's final.'" I let a beat pass. "You would make his day with it, however, so I would ask you to send it anyway."

Volklan Yasif Dal
"Thanks for this explanations, replies the CEO of Volkan Petrol Engineering with a smile and a small bow of the head to Liliane. I agree, you must not neglect your general studies while doing extrascholar activities. It was the same for me when I was studying geology at the Old Town University, I ended up nearly being kicked out of the Polo Club because I was lacking behind on two subjects during my third year. And one of my acquaintances eve got kicked out of the basketball club because of that.
Anyway, so, could you tell me more about what precise contests you partake in as a Marcach? If I've understood well, you train with the lance.
And also, could you please explain to me what is precisely Swordancing? Because the Sun knows how many articles I've read about the subject, the number of searches I did, I've yet to understand fully what it precisely consists of."

Harris Brecken
"Of course of course, replies the Foreign Minister, I would have sent it anyway. I know that after what happened in Karlsland, he must not be the same anymore. At least I hope his garden brings him a bit of joy. Say, instead of him coming here, do you think he would accept me visiting him in the Free Lands? Not on official business of course, I wouldn't want to anger him, but just a a man wishing to say Thank you to another for having helped him get better at his job.
Anyway, Miss Sciambach, if I may ask, how did you get into this job?" finishes Harris with a smile.

A man approached Hanbyeol. Aside from the fact that he was a mountain of a man, standing at over two metres, he seemed mostly normal. She accepted his hand, smiling gently and replying to him. "Good evening" with a slight nod. "This is certainly different than what I'm used to, the ones to interact with eum...undead are usually my sisters Camilla and Camellia." She suddenly realized she might have said something sensitive. "Oh, I'm sorry, was that offensive? I-I didn't know how else to address your people..perhaps you'll tell me the appropriate way?"

When Hanbyeol stutters an apology about him being undead, Patrick can't help but laugh.
"Of course I'll tell you the appropriate way, replies the Marquis, but first, please take a look at my eyes." he says as he leans towards her and shows her his eyes with his right index and middle fingers.
"See? The sclera is completely white, just like any normal human, because that's what I am, a normal human. On a Harran Viral, it would eb bloodshot, and a light red color. If you remember the guest list, there are a number of Imperial nobles from the Empire of the Scarlet Eagle among the guests, and I'm one of them.
Anyway, to answer your question Baroness, continues Patrick, if you want to adress a Harran Viral correctly, then just adress them as you would any other normal person. Afert what they've been through, the only thing most of them want is to be treated like they would have before the outbreak. So a simple Sir or Ma'am is a good way to adress them.
And yes, calling them undead is a grave insult around these parts.
So, aside from that, would you mind accompanying me to the Buffet? I may have prepared those blood apetizers by error, but I would still like for you to give it a try, that is if you don't mind of course." finishes Patrick with a small bow.

Both women went wide eyed a bit when suddenly it felt like they were in a old black and white B-movie about brain hungry zombies but it was a simple joke. Well both a bit taken a back they got a laugh. "My my. Good sense of humor I see. Ladies a good pleasure to meet you both. I think we'll enjoy ourselves plenty with such a nice party."

"Indeed, replies Jade with a smile. As my brother Rahim usually says: "it's better to laugh about it rather than cry.". Too bad he couldn't be here tonight, I'm sure you would have liked him. Unfortunately, since he's the Ambassador of our Queendom to the Empire of the Scarlet Eagle, he does not have time to come back home very often. But one thing he told us, is that for his birthday, he invited other Ambassadors, among them Mr James Robert Schwarzkopf, your Ambassador to the Empire, and the two of them got along very well.
-Yeah, that's the start of a good friendship, continues Kyle with a smile. Anyway, how we acted in front of you was more or less how a Harran Viral would have in its feral form. Although when we were in this state, we were not hunting for brains, don't worry. Just like creatures looking for meat.
As for what was happening in our heads during these moments, it was...surreal. I mean, all the people I've interrogated, and myself, were feeling as if we were evolving into a plane of existence where we were advancing endlessly on objects of our world. Imagine, you're walking into a torn classroom, and you get to an upper floor by using tables as stairs. And all around you, above, below, everywhere, an ocean of sky-blue nothingness."

Giving a curt smile while putting away his passport William gave his reply “thank you, we will are more than ready to meet the queen” as the two men began to follow the blue Volatile William gave one more response to the guards “may you have a pleasant night gentlemen, best of luck”.

While walking through the well lit hallways the two men continued conversing (this time in Metcalfern) with Basil getting the first word “could of gone better, could of gone significantly worse” “oh shut up, you aren’t going to let me live that down are you” Basil shrugged “no, not really” in a sardonic voice William retorted “you know that it is well within my power to have you killed” “oh please, you love it when I make fun of you” “no I don’t” “(chuckle) well fair enough, that and if I was dead my wife would probably kill you” “that I don’t doubt, how is she by the way?” Basil gave a chortled sigh “she has convinced herself to try and get into cooking again, it is going as well as it did last time” “oof, sounds unpleasant but it could be worse I guess” “that is true, but any way I’m truly not surprised that of all the Volatiles that live here that Grinderman tried to kidnap soldiers.”

“Please stop, there is only so much I can take before I have a conniption, Grinderman is going to get a good tongue lashing over this, and depending on much this embarrasses us there might be an actual lashing” taking a breath to compose himself William continued “I hope that the food here is good, I haven’t eaten anything in six hours and need something to take my mind of this absurdity”

Unfortunately for Kaiser William Metcalfe and his bodyguard Basil Constantine, Captain Dakrim was very well versed in languages, managing to learn them quickly, which he did for most of the guests during the days leading up to the Garden Party. And among them, he managed to get a decent level in spoken Metcalfern, which is why he was able to understand the general meaning of the two men's conversation.
"If I may say Gentlemen, says the Blue Volatile in English as they are crossing the Courtyard (OOC: not the hallways, they're not into the mansion yet.), Mrs Grinderman was maybe right into wanting to kidnap us, since we already are soldiers and would be easier to weaponize, but she forgot one basic thing: a predator is harder to catch than a prey species. And as you know, just like humans, we are Apex Predators. But I believe she has learned her lesson. If you wonder why, it's because she lost her left hand while trying to capture Sergeant Cherif and his friends. Our clawed hands can lake good cutting tools if you do the right movement, adds the Blue Volatile as he smirks and chuckles.
Anyway, please wait here, he continues as he stops them, before walking away towards the buffet, and coming back a minute later with two plates, each one containing a sandwich with ham, cheese, lettuce and tomato, a blueberry muffin and a glass of water.
Here, eat this, says Amir as he hands a plate and bottle to each one. I won't bring you in front of the Queen if your stomach is empty."

[The Selkie]

"Indeed, replies Phillip to Fara before she leaves, we'll see you again with the rest concerning the mishaps in the UIS."

As the small group led by Yuri walks through the garden towards the mansion and the path leading up to it, no words are exchanged between the Imperials and the guests. (Although by a small glance exchanged with Catherine, Yuri confirms his feeling that he feels the Duchess and her Kyrenaian girlfriend would indeed enjoy some quality time together.)
However, as they arrive at the foot of the path leading up the rock towards the mansion, the Baron extends his arm, signalling for the group to stop.
"Before we continue, I have something important to tell you. I'm sure you have understood it by the words I exchanged with Phillip."
As he says that, he takes something with his right hand in his vest's left inside pocket (and also revealing for a split second the decorated stock of a M1911 in a shoulder holster.) As his hand leaves the vest, he reveals to Fara, Aurelia and Marcella a small photography.
On it, the image of what appears to be the neck of a person, taken while said person was lying down. However, the neck in question is riddled with stictches on its left side, and the skin is nearly purple all over the surface of the wound. A small detail that might catch Aurelia's attention, and help her identify whose neck it is, is the fact that the left cheek of the wounded person is also visible, revealing a large, horizontal scar.

"As you see, this is a nasty wound, says Catherine. The person on this photo barely escaped death, although I'm sure Aurelia and Fara-Amira will not have difficulties recognizing who it is.
-Yup, continues Yuri. I'll get straight to the point, you weren't the only ones who suffered an attack on a monarch this year.
So, September, 15, 2019, 8.30PM local time at the Blachkov DC Downtown Hospital. Anaximander, who has been working for the past month at the Emergency Response Department as a physician, is doing his last shift before the end of his training period. At this moment, a person who was picked up by paramedics, apparently for an ethylic coma.
As he performs the first examinations on the patient, the latter suddenly rises up from his stretcher and bites him at the throat. And unfortunately, this guy manages to land a perfect hit, tearing apart flesh and also the left carotid artery, meaning that Anax was starting to loose blood rapidly.
So, what happens after that you might ask? Well, the patient who bit him was restrained, while Anax's neck was compressed to stop him loosing more of his precious red fluid. He was operated immediatly, and stayed four days in a coma. Fortunately, the Palace managed to put a tight lid on this story, so that's why it didn't got out.
But what really surprised us, is what he thought of first when he woke up. His first words were not about his wife, or his family, his friends, or even his country.
No, his first words were, and I quote: "I can't die yet, I don't want to leave while still being at odds with Aurelia."
So now you have your answer Princess, says the Baron to Aurelia, as to why he specifically requested your presence at this party. He nearly dies, and his first thoughts upon awakening are for you.
Now, I'm not saying this to try and influence you towards being benevolent with him during your discussion, far from me this idea. What I would like to ask you, and the others Alpha by extension, would be that before you nuclearize him or whatever you want to do with him, at least listen to him before that. That's all we would like." finishes the Baron Petrenko with a small bow, as his eyes are a bit misty, just like Catherine, the both of them clearly sad that they have nearly lost a best friend.

Volklan Yasif Dal
"Thanks for this explanations, replies the CEO of Volkan Petrol Engineering with a smile and a small bow of the head to Liliane. I agree, you must not neglect your general studies while doing extrascholar activities. It was the same for me when I was studying geology at the Old Town University, I ended up nearly being kicked out of the Polo Club because I was lacking behind on two subjects during my third year. And one of my acquaintances eve got kicked out of the basketball club because of that.
Anyway, so, could you tell me more about what precise contests you partake in as a Marcach? If I've understood well, you train with the lance.
And also, could you please explain to me what is precisely Swordancing? Because the Sun knows how many articles I've read about the subject, the number of searches I did, I've yet to understand fully what it precisely consists of."

Harris Brecken
"Of course of course, replies the Foreign Minister, I would have sent it anyway. I know that after what happened in Karlsland, he must not be the same anymore. At least I hope his garden brings him a bit of joy. Say, instead of him coming here, do you think he would accept me visiting him in the Free Lands? Not on official business of course, I wouldn't want to anger him, but just a a man wishing to say Thank you to another for having helped him get better at his job.
Anyway, Miss Sciambach, if I may ask, how did you get into this job?" finishes Harris with a smile.
[...]

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
I would lie, if I were to say, that I wasn't... shocked might be the wrong word. It was more like... I don't know. I was not pleased, that's for certain. I was currently on the outs with Anax, sure, but I did not want to see him hurt.
Though, the story of his first words after awakening being about me did sound a bit apocryphal. Not even something about Anna came first? Well... if it was true, I would feel honoured and discomforted.
Anyway, I saw in Fara's cold and hard eyes, that she was less then pleased, but in a different way. His course of playing the down-to-earth, in-touch-with-the-people monarch would get him killed one day. That day nearly came.
I would lie, if I were to say, that these weren't my second thoughts. There was a reason, why the Tabardariyya existed and did their job in the way they did.
I voiced my third thoughts: "Thank you for bringing this to our attention, Yuri, Catherine." I used their first names deliberately, indicating, that I understood this to be a personal matter and a matter, where a bit of a personal touch might do wonders. My hand, unconsciously, found Marcella's. "It will certainly take the edge off." I let a beat pass. "Believe me, when I say, though, that I planned to listen to what he has to say. I can not guarantee about any... you might call it leniency, which I may or may not have."
I would. And I had the feeling, that this was the aim.
Well, in the words of my great namesake, Aurelia the Wise: Wisdom also, sometimes, means the wisdom of when to forgive, and dignity sometimes also means when to give someone dignity.
I gave a small, weak smile: "I hope, that Anna isn't too jealous?"

Liliane Lile of the Tribe of Fermanagh.
"One after the other, please.", I said with a small smile, "Indeed, I am a lancer, I specialize in the Art of the Lance, but I am also quite good with swords." I let a beat pass. "First of all, you need to understand, that our tradition of tournaments stems not from fighting, but from training for the fighting, so the aim is not giving a good show, although that is done, too, but mostly to hone the skills, which we will never again use on the field of battle."
Well, even I knew, what a machine gun did to cavalry.
"Anyway, as a lancer, I usually participate mounted, but lance-fencing is a skill, which I hone, too. One never knows.", I said with a shrug, "I participate both in Ringing Contests, Charging Contests and Bouting Contests. Comhrac, as we call the latter, is usually what tourists associate with us, horse-mounted fights with the aim of landing either a 'killing blow' or disarming the opponent or lifting him or her out of the saddle. As said, all three stem from training exercises."

Kendra Sciamhach of the Tribe of Waterford.
"I'll ask him about you visiting him.", I promised, "No promises, though. Both concerning his acceptance of such a visit and the weather. We'll be having winter, soon, and we are actually thinking about moving him from his house into the City for the time."
I let a beat pass.
"Well, I was interested in the great world.", I said, "And International Politics... it was my gateway to it, what happened where and why, that was my little escape in the Riverbank Orphanage. I'm, originally, teach na dtuismitheoirí, without a parental home. I decided to study it instead of pursuing a career as a Sworddancer." I smiled. "Apparently, I was good enough to attract Daideo's attention and... well, there we went."

[Aviz Portugal]

"Excellent!", exclaimed as the queen as the pair as she was given back her invitation slip.As she turned back for a second towards the number of guards behind her at a distance, she quickly explained that she had no intent of bringing them in too.As the two walked through the portal and are now suited inside the city, one could only wonder what the city holds for its visitors.

"Well then Your Majesty, your suggestions?", asked her Royal Secretary."No need for much formality, Gonçalo and I say, if you agree, a leisure walk inside the mansion?", replied Isabella thoughtfully.As de Almeida presented no objection, they both slowly made their way to the mansion doors, approaching the guards nearby.As Isabella took to her most gracious pose, she said, "Excuse me sir, may we step foot inside the mansion?Or aren't we allowed to do so around this hour?"

[AHSCA]

"Indeed, replies Phillip to Fara before she leaves, we'll see you again with the rest concerning the mishaps in the UIS."

As the small group led by Yuri walks through the garden towards the mansion and the path leading up to it, no words are exchanged between the Imperials and the guests. (Although by a small glance exchanged with Catherine, Yuri confirms his feeling that he feels the Duchess and her Kyrenaian girlfriend would indeed enjoy some quality time together.)
However, as they arrive at the foot of the path leading up the rock towards the mansion, the Baron extends his arm, signalling for the group to stop.
"Before we continue, I have something important to tell you. I'm sure you have understood it by the words I exchanged with Phillip."
As he says that, he takes something with his right hand in his vest's left inside pocket (and also revealing for a split second the decorated stock of a M1911 in a shoulder holster.) As his hand leaves the vest, he reveals to Fara, Aurelia and Marcella a small photography.
On it, the image of what appears to be the neck of a person, taken while said person was lying down. However, the neck in question is riddled with stictches on its left side, and the skin is nearly purple all over the surface of the wound. A small detail that might catch Aurelia's attention, and help her identify whose neck it is, is the fact that the left cheek of the wounded person is also visible, revealing a large, horizontal scar.

"As you see, this is a nasty wound, says Catherine. The person on this photo barely escaped death, although I'm sure Aurelia and Fara-Amira will not have difficulties recognizing who it is.
-Yup, continues Yuri. I'll get straight to the point, you weren't the only ones who suffered an attack on a monarch this year.
So, September, 15, 2019, 8.30PM local time at the Blachkov DC Downtown Hospital. Anaximander, who has been working for the past month at the Emergency Response Department as a physician, is doing his last shift before the end of his training period. At this moment, a person who was picked up by paramedics, apparently for an ethylic coma.
As he performs the first examinations on the patient, the latter suddenly rises up from his stretcher and bites him at the throat. And unfortunately, this guy manages to land a perfect hit, tearing apart flesh and also the left carotid artery, meaning that Anax was starting to loose blood rapidly.
So, what happens after that you might ask? Well, the patient who bit him was restrained, while Anax's neck was compressed to stop him loosing more of his precious red fluid. He was operated immediatly, and stayed four days in a coma. Fortunately, the Palace managed to put a tight lid on this story, so that's why it didn't got out.
But what really surprised us, is what he thought of first when he woke up. His first words were not about his wife, or his family, his friends, or even his country.
No, his first words were, and I quote: "I can't die yet, I don't want to leave while still being at odds with Aurelia."
So now you have your answer Princess, says the Baron to Aurelia, as to why he specifically requested your presence at this party. He nearly dies, and his first thoughts upon awakening are for you.
Now, I'm not saying this to try and influence you towards being benevolent with him during your discussion, far from me this idea. What I would like to ask you, and the others Alpha by extension, would be that before you nuclearize him or whatever you want to do with him, at least listen to him before that. That's all we would like." finishes the Baron Petrenko with a small bow, as his eyes are a bit misty, just like Catherine, the both of them clearly sad that they have nearly lost a best friend.

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
I would lie, if I were to say, that I wasn't... shocked might be the wrong word. It was more like... I don't know. I was not pleased, that's for certain. I was currently on the outs with Anax, sure, but I did not want to see him hurt.
Though, the story of his first words after awakening being about me did sound a bit apocryphal. Not even something about Anna came first? Well... if it was true, I would feel honoured and discomforted.
Anyway, I saw in Fara's cold and hard eyes, that she was less then pleased, but in a different way. His course of playing the down-to-earth, in-touch-with-the-people monarch would get him killed one day. That day nearly came.
I would lie, if I were to say, that these weren't my second thoughts. There was a reason, why the Tabardariyya existed and did their job in the way they did.
I voiced my third thoughts: "Thank you for bringing this to our attention, Yuri, Catherine." I used their first names deliberately, indicating, that I understood this to be a personal matter and a matter, where a bit of a personal touch might do wonders. My hand, unconsciously, found Marcella's. "It will certainly take the edge off." I let a beat pass. "Believe me, when I say, though, that I planned to listen to what he has to say. I can not guarantee about any... you might call it leniency, which I may or may not have."
I would. And I had the feeling, that this was the aim.
Well, in the words of my great namesake, Aurelia the Wise: Wisdom also, sometimes, means the wisdom of when to forgive, and dignity sometimes also means when to give someone dignity.
I gave a small, weak smile: "I hope, that Anna isn't too jealous?"

Marcella sat quiet, honestly she was a bit perplexed about what this really had to do with her, beyond it just being connected to Aurelia. Of course, Aurelia was precious, Marcella was ready to fight and guard her chances but a jealous type she wasn't. She didn't know who any of the people that were mentioned, maybe others who eyed Aurelia, well could she blame them? Aurelia was beautiful, no doubt there would be others even in the islands who might have their eyes on her. Well of course she could sympathize, an attack on a fellow monarch, felt like an attack on all of them. That endless tug-a-war between establishment and democratic forms of government always were at the forefront of every nation.

[Kafair]

Thomas answers the prince's strong grip with one of his own, before releasing hands.
"Well, I'm glad you like what our hosts have prepared for us, replies the Imperial noble. I'll admit, it's good to see this kind of event prepared for someone other than us, given the fact our country was the only one to help them get back on their feet five years ago.
Anyway, to answer your question, I'll only be able to answer from an stranger's point of view. As you see, my wife and I are just as human as you and your bodyguard, so we can't tell what being a Harran Viral is like. However, when it comes to the local mood and way of life, it's pretty much normal. The locals do not want other, normal humans to think of them as being too different, they want to be considered just like before the outbreak when they were normal humans.
-It's a difficult thing to achieve, but events like that are a first step in the right direction," finishes the Duchess with a smile

"That rather impressive I must say. They really do seem to resemble any other nation around us. So, I take it living here must be, if not the same, than similar to normal." The prince turns to the Duchess, and smiles to her. "If they can pull of a good party, the are more than human enough for me. All of this seems elaborate, well planned. I am happy to see how much has been done here."

[Kuronami]

"Indeed, replies Jade with a smile. As my brother Rahim usually says: "it's better to laugh about it rather than cry.". Too bad he couldn't be here tonight, I'm sure you would have liked him. Unfortunately, since he's the Ambassador of our Queendom to the Empire of the Scarlet Eagle, he does not have time to come back home very often. But one thing he told us, is that for his birthday, he invited other Ambassadors, among them Mr James Robert Schwarzkopf, your Ambassador to the Empire, and the two of them got along very well.
-Yeah, that's the start of a good friendship, continues Kyle with a smile. Anyway, how we acted in front of you was more or less how a Harran Viral would have in its feral form. Although when we were in this state, we were not hunting for brains, don't worry. Just like creatures looking for meat.
As for what was happening in our heads during these moments, it was...surreal. I mean, all the people I've interrogated, and myself, were feeling as if we were evolving into a plane of existence where we were advancing endlessly on objects of our world. Imagine, you're walking into a torn classroom, and you get to an upper floor by using tables as stairs. And all around you, above, below, everywhere, an ocean of sky-blue nothingness."

"Well you've been through a lot by the sound of it, but you have your heads on your shoulders..." Benio remarked then trailed off to quiet, was that a faux pas she just made? Anyway.

"I don't think either of us could imagine that. Sounds pretty rough." Sakura remarked.

[A m e n r i a]

The giant leaned closer, showing him his eyes for Hanbyeol to inspect. And indeed, it was white as a regular, healthy human. He explained having bloodshot eyes being a Viral trait, though he seemed to forget even humans, when lacking sleep, can have reddish eyes. He also stated being from a nation called Scarlet Eagle. With a sinister-sounding nation that reminds her of America, she began to take more caution with him, though his nice attitude was reciprocated by the Starchild.

"I'm terribly sorry, but blood is only halal for vampires, and even then it's debatable. How about I take some for Camilla and Camellia back home and tell you what they think? In the meantime, I'll try something else you provided, alright?" she winked amd smiled at him.

As they walked closely, Patrick would be able to notice a series of twelve small, yellow dots on Hanbyeol's right thigh, contrasting her pale, milky skin, with the lower part of her dress being roughly one and a half hands above her knee, revealing the mark, if he actually gazed that way, that is.

The baroness was already a tall woman to begin with, at 177 cm, and her heels, which her idol career has helped in making her accustomed to them, made her 5 cm taller. Following her manager's directions, she kept her hair a natural black and straight since her last comeback, also contrasting her skin colour and her red lipstick. Her dress was equally bright, being predominantly white with streaks of yellow, blue, and green

[Mervay]

Her Royal Princess Circe IV of Mervay

Alright. So. Zombies. Well... She might want to turn back and leave. But. Problem was?? That would add yet once again, stress on her younger sister since she will have to come here, deal with an entire mess too, even so The Prime Minister and The Parlament existed to govern too, still, she got involved heavily on politics so she saw why her younger sister was so stressed. Well she does care about the nation then.
Now for the travel, Ariadna, which is the princess true name by the way, has brought the basics, clothes, boots or shoes and all that stuff for hygene, private stuff and makeup... Gladly the basics after being injected on her neck with the antidote of the harran virus. Harran. What just happened on this city to have the virus spread all over it?? How did it evolved into become what it is now, an part of human evolution we could say?? Either way, better leave that for later and focus on just getting to their destiny. She had enough just trying to get here because of an storm ruining their schedule and making them delay her flight at least a few hours... 6 hours.

Seriously, what she needed now was that the antidote didn't worked and she was infected with the Harran Virus!! Still it didn't matter, that won't be happening surely and all she wanted now was to enjoy even a bit the ball if she was let because of her late appereance.

As soon as she got to her destiny she just leaved the vehicle and showed her papers, hoping that was enough to let her in. She really wanted to get in and enjoy so at least the delay was worth it.

[Global Harran]

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
I would lie, if I were to say, that I wasn't... shocked might be the wrong word. It was more like... I don't know. I was not pleased, that's for certain. I was currently on the outs with Anax, sure, but I did not want to see him hurt.
Though, the story of his first words after awakening being about me did sound a bit apocryphal. Not even something about Anna came first? Well... if it was true, I would feel honoured and discomforted.
Anyway, I saw in Fara's cold and hard eyes, that she was less then pleased, but in a different way. His course of playing the down-to-earth, in-touch-with-the-people monarch would get him killed one day. That day nearly came.
I would lie, if I were to say, that these weren't my second thoughts. There was a reason, why the Tabardariyya existed and did their job in the way they did.
I voiced my third thoughts: "Thank you for bringing this to our attention, Yuri, Catherine." I used their first names deliberately, indicating, that I understood this to be a personal matter and a matter, where a bit of a personal touch might do wonders. My hand, unconsciously, found Marcella's. "It will certainly take the edge off." I let a beat pass. "Believe me, when I say, though, that I planned to listen to what he has to say. I can not guarantee about any... you might call it leniency, which I may or may not have."
I would. And I had the feeling, that this was the aim.
Well, in the words of my great namesake, Aurelia the Wise: Wisdom also, sometimes, means the wisdom of when to forgive, and dignity sometimes also means when to give someone dignity.
I gave a small, weak smile: "I hope, that Anna isn't too jealous?"



Marcella sat quiet, honestly she was a bit perplexed about what this really had to do with her, beyond it just being connected to Aurelia. Of course, Aurelia was precious, Marcella was ready to fight and guard her chances but a jealous type she wasn't. She didn't know who any of the people that were mentioned, maybe others who eyed Aurelia, well could she blame them? Aurelia was beautiful, no doubt there would be others even in the islands who might have their eyes on her. Well of course she could sympathize, an attack on a fellow monarch, felt like an attack on all of them. That endless tug-a-war between establishment and democratic forms of government always were at the forefront of every nation.

As Aurelia answers them, Yuri and Catherine keep their attention fully to their interlocutors, not missing the hard look in Fara's eyes, and understanding the meaning behind it.
"Don't worry, replies Yuri with a small smile to Aurelia, Anna is in the same state of mind as she was twelve years ago when he was shot in the lung: a mix of sadness, anger and fear, although this time, the anger is clearly the strongest emotion among the three. Not because he asked for you, she understood the reasons behind it and accepted them, but for not having taken Pavel with him inside the room, not outside.
-If I may say, Princess Fara, interrupts Catherine as she speaks to the older Princess, I know perfectly what those eyes mean. And I would like you tell him the real words behind it. That won't stop him though from doing it again, but he will take more precautions. And besides, he likes to do this, and has always said: I'd rather die doing something I love rather than something I hate.
-Indeed, continues Yuri. Anyway, back to Anna. So, since she was angry, and to somehow give him a bit of a punishment for making her worry again like in 2007, she chose to hit him where their relations is the most intense. I'm sure you see perfectly what I mean, he adds with a wink. I'll let them tell you more later. So Ladies, if you'll please follow me again, finishes the Baron as he shows the path leading up the rock towards the mansion, before starting to walk again, followed by the four women.
"So, aside from that, he says as they walk up, how did the month of September went for you?" he asks the two Princesses, as well as the Baroness.

Liliane Lile of the Tribe of Fermanagh.
"One after the other, please.", I said with a small smile, "Indeed, I am a lancer, I specialize in the Art of the Lance, but I am also quite good with swords." I let a beat pass. "First of all, you need to understand, that our tradition of tournaments stems not from fighting, but from training for the fighting, so the aim is not giving a good show, although that is done, too, but mostly to hone the skills, which we will never again use on the field of battle."
Well, even I knew, what a machine gun did to cavalry.
"Anyway, as a lancer, I usually participate mounted, but lance-fencing is a skill, which I hone, too. One never knows.", I said with a shrug, "I participate both in Ringing Contests, Charging Contests and Bouting Contests. Comhrac, as we call the latter, is usually what tourists associate with us, horse-mounted fights with the aim of landing either a 'killing blow' or disarming the opponent or lifting him or her out of the saddle. As said, all three stem from training exercises."

Kendra Sciamhach of the Tribe of Waterford.
"I'll ask him about you visiting him.", I promised, "No promises, though. Both concerning his acceptance of such a visit and the weather. We'll be having winter, soon, and we are actually thinking about moving him from his house into the City for the time."
I let a beat pass.
"Well, I was interested in the great world.", I said, "And International Politics... it was my gateway to it, what happened where and why, that was my little escape in the Riverbank Orphanage. I'm, originally, teach na dtuismitheoirí, without a parental home. I decided to study it instead of pursuing a career as a Sworddancer." I smiled. "Apparently, I was good enough to attract Daideo's attention and... well, there we went."

Volkan Yasif Dal
"I understand, don't worry, replies Volkan with a smile. Although you don't know if you'll ever need them again, he continues as he takes a sip of his glass. Powder and ammunition may one day come to run out, and we'll have to rely on more ancient ways of fighting.
Anyway, I hope that you wear good protections for this sport, especially for the back in case you're thrown off your steed. So, when you lift your opponent off the saddle, does he always falls off afterwards, or does he sometimes remain in saddle?"

Harris Brecken
"Thank you, replies Harris with a smile. Don't worry, if you want, I can wait till next year that the weather is better again.
In any case, that's an interesting story you told me, thank you for sharing it with me, he continues with a small bow of the head. For me, life didn't started bad. I grew up in a cozy suburd of Manchester, England, my dad being a school teacher and my mom a secretary at the local city hall. My grades in schools were pretty average, I could have gotten better ones if I just tried a bit harder. My only favourite class was Physical Education, and that's when I tried parkour, and fell in love with it.
After high school, I would have loved to continue my passion, but my parents were against it, and sent me to learn Political Science. Three years after, I was out of Manchester University with a License Degree in my pocket, and the fact that now that I had fulfilled this part of the moral contract I had made with my parents, I was now free to do what I wanted with my life.
So, I ended up becoming a parkour instructor, it didn't bring a stready paycheck everymonth, but at least I was making what I loved the most in life. And when Harran announced that it would host the World's Atheltic Championships in 2014, I came here, with nothing but my savings and a bunch of visit card in my pockets, to try my luck.
Although just after I arrived, the virus outbreak struck the city, and I ended up creating and leading a small community of survivors, who would become known as The Tower, who I would train in parkour to help them navigate and escape the zombies easily.
In the end though, I became infected, made my time of four months as a feral being, and ending up being like this, he says as he gestures to himself. And when Jasmine took the throne Kyle recommended me to her for the job of Foreign Minister, given my past and my relationship skills. And that's where I am now, he finishes with a small chuckle. Although to be honest, I made two more years in Political Sciences at the Old Town University.
By the way, could you please explain to me what is Swordancing precisely? I have been talking with Volkan about it before, but we could not find or understand what it was precisely."

"Excellent!", exclaimed as the queen as the pair as she was given back her invitation slip.As she turned back for a second towards the number of guards behind her at a distance, she quickly explained that she had no intent of bringing them in too.As the two walked through the portal and are now suited inside the city, one could only wonder what the city holds for its visitors.

"Well then Your Majesty, your suggestions?", asked her Royal Secretary."No need for much formality, Gonçalo and I say, if you agree, a leisure walk inside the mansion?", replied Isabella thoughtfully.As de Almeida presented no objection, they both slowly made their way to the mansion doors, approaching the guards nearby.As Isabella took to her most gracious pose, she said, "Excuse me sir, may we step foot inside the mansion?Or aren't we allowed to do so around this hour?"

When the two Guards standing at the door of the mansion see the Portguese Queen and her date approach and ask them if they can set foot inside the mansion, both of them look at each other with a raised eyebrow.
"Err.... With all due respect Your Majesty, Sir, you know this is a garden party right? asks the one standing to the right when entering. Nothing won't be happening in the house tonight, the main gig will be down there, he continues as he points to the garden below the rock where the mansion is standing. So, unless you're searching for the toilets, you need not step inside.
-Besides, it is the private estate of the Queen, continues the other Volatile. So, that's what it is, private. I mean, Your Majesty, in your Palace back home, you have the public rooms where the parties, Galas, etc, happen; but you also have your own private apartments where no one but you and your loved ones step foot it. That's the same here.
So, if you're searching for the toilets, it's to the left behind me, below the stairs leading up. Otherwise, I'll...
-Well, what do we have here? asks a man of 1.90m, wearing black tie attire consisting of a white tuxedo and pants, as well as a red bowtie, who had arrived from behind the Portuguese.
-Mr Kerkazel, good to see you, says one of the Guards with a nod. Her Royal Highness here and her companion were asking if they could enter the mansion, and maybe visit it.
-I see, replies the man, before turning to the two guests. Your Majesty, Sir, I am Kkarim Kerkazel, CEO of Harran Arms Company, our local and proud arm manufacturing company, he says as he bows to the two guests. So, like they told you, this mansion is considered at least private. But if you want, I'm sure the Queen would not mind if I was to give you a tour of the not privat rooms and corridors. I'm sure you would appreciate the paintings of the living room. So, what do you say?" he asks with a smile.

"That rather impressive I must say. They really do seem to resemble any other nation around us. So, I take it living here must be, if not the same, than similar to normal." The prince turns to the Duchess, and smiles to her. "If they can pull of a good party, the are more than human enough for me. All of this seems elaborate, well planned. I am happy to see how much has been done here."

"Indeed, once the oubreak was cleared, this place was nearly a ruin, replie Thomas with a sigh. I don't want to brag, but if our Empire didn't inject hundreds of millions into the local economy to help them reconstruct, who knows what it would look like today.
-Anyway, continues Ophelia, if I may ask Prince, what are you searching for at this party? asks the Duchess with a smile that could be considered half-mischevious. Allies, trade partners, or just looking to have some fun?"

"Well you've been through a lot by the sound of it, but you have your heads on your shoulders..." Benio remarked then trailed off to quiet, was that a faux pas she just made? Anyway.

"I don't think either of us could imagine that. Sounds pretty rough." Sakura remarked.

"Well, it all depends if you look at it from the inside or the outside, replies Crane to the Royal Agent of State and her assistant. From the outside, you're just a feral creature spending all its days and nights outside, so after some time, the sun starts to take its toll on your skin. Not to mention small pustules and necrosis caused by the virus. Trust me, when everything was over, the dermatologists who were hired to come her and heal us had a looooooot of field days, finishes Kyle with a small laugh.
-That is true, continues Jade, but from the inside, that's where most opinions differ. My boyfriend here thinks now that the experience of walking around into nothingess was pretty fun, while I am more reserved. Not knowing where you are, just keeping advancing for The Sun knows how long, and not seeing the end.... Yes, that was pretty rough. But at least we all got out of it, finishes the former kickboxer with a smile.
-Anyway, for now, enouh of us! exclaims Kyle. So, Ladies, if you don't mind, why don't you tell us more about yoursevles and your jobs?" asks the Prime Minister with a warm smile.

The giant leaned closer, showing him his eyes for Hanbyeol to inspect. And indeed, it was white as a regular, healthy human. He explained having bloodshot eyes being a Viral trait, though he seemed to forget even humans, when lacking sleep, can have reddish eyes. He also stated being from a nation called Scarlet Eagle. With a sinister-sounding nation that reminds her of America, she began to take more caution with him, though his nice attitude was reciprocated by the Starchild.

"I'm terribly sorry, but blood is only halal for vampires, and even then it's debatable. How about I take some for Camilla and Camellia back home and tell you what they think? In the meantime, I'll try something else you provided, alright?" she winked amd smiled at him.

As they walked closely, Patrick would be able to notice a series of twelve small, yellow dots on Hanbyeol's right thigh, contrasting her pale, milky skin, with the lower part of her dress being roughly one and a half hands above her knee, revealing the mark, if he actually gazed that way, that is.

The baroness was already a tall woman to begin with, at 177 cm, and her heels, which her idol career has helped in making her accustomed to them, made her 5 cm taller. Following her manager's directions, she kept her hair a natural black and straight since her last comeback, also contrasting her skin colour and her red lipstick. Her dress was equally bright, being predominantly white with streaks of yellow, blue, and green

"Of course, sorry about forgetting that, replies Patrick about the fact blood being halal only for vampires. Although if I may ask Baroness, what is this mark you have on your thigh?" asks the Marquis, his keen eyes not missing the small detail on the woman's enticing figure.

Her Royal Princess Circe IV of Mervay

Alright. So. Zombies. Well... She might want to turn back and leave. But. Problem was?? That would add yet once again, stress on her younger sister since she will have to come here, deal with an entire mess too, even so The Prime Minister and The Parlament existed to govern too, still, she got involved heavily on politics so she saw why her younger sister was so stressed. Well she does care about the nation then.
Now for the travel, Ariadna, which is the princess true name by the way, has brought the basics, clothes, boots or shoes and all that stuff for hygene, private stuff and makeup... Gladly the basics after being injected on her neck with the antidote of the harran virus. Harran. What just happened on this city to have the virus spread all over it?? How did it evolved into become what it is now, an part of human evolution we could say?? Either way, better leave that for later and focus on just getting to their destiny. She had enough just trying to get here because of an storm ruining their schedule and making them delay her flight at least a few hours... 6 hours.

Seriously, what she needed now was that the antidote didn't worked and she was infected with the Harran Virus!! Still it didn't matter, that won't be happening surely and all she wanted now was to enjoy even a bit the ball if she was let because of her late appereance.

As soon as she got to her destiny she just leaved the vehicle and showed her papers, hoping that was enough to let her in. She really wanted to get in and enjoy so at least the delay was worth it.

When the Princess arrives, the Volatile Guards take a quick look at her passport and invitation card, before handing them back to her.
"Enjoy Your evening Your Highness, says Corporal Elkebir with a smile.
Just as the Princess has entered, she would spot a tall man coming towards her, wearing a black tie tuxedo with a red-wine shirt and a black bowtie, followed by a woman in tow, wearing a black dress, with a slit going up her legs, ending just above the knee, as well as leaving the shoulders uncovered.
"Good evening You Highness, and welcome to the Queen's estate! says the man as he extends his hand towards Circe with a smile. I'm Rais Suleiman, Minister of Defense and Security of the Queedom. My date for tonight, Miss Ezgi Jazir, Minister of Energy and Ressources.
-A pleasure Princess, says Ezgi with a smile and a bow of the head. I hope you had a pleasant trip coming here?"

[A m e n r i a]

The two kept walking side by side, with him now bringing up the topic of her Mark of the Starchild, which actually looked like the constellation Sagittarius, if someone rather knowledgeable about astronomy were to draw lines between the dots. She did, however, make it sound as trivial as possible.

"Oh, this? It's just a birth mark. All my sisters have one too." she shrugged and kept walking at the same pace. "So, you're from Scarlet Eagle, right? Would you mind telling me a bit about the place, please?"

[Kuronami]

"Well, it all depends if you look at it from the inside or the outside, replies Crane to the Royal Agent of State and her assistant. From the outside, you're just a feral creature spending all its days and nights outside, so after some time, the sun starts to take its toll on your skin. Not to mention small pustules and necrosis caused by the virus. Trust me, when everything was over, the dermatologists who were hired to come her and heal us had a looooooot of field days, finishes Kyle with a small laugh.
-That is true, continues Jade, but from the inside, that's where most opinions differ. My boyfriend here thinks now that the experience of walking around into nothingess was pretty fun, while I am more reserved. Not knowing where you are, just keeping advancing for The Sun knows how long, and not seeing the end.... Yes, that was pretty rough. But at least we all got out of it, finishes the former kickboxer with a smile.
-Anyway, for now, enouh of us! exclaims Kyle. So, Ladies, if you don't mind, why don't you tell us more about yoursevles and your jobs?" asks the Prime Minister with a warm smile.

"Oh well, not sure there's much to say about us, we just work under Her Majesty our Empress like anyone else. To be exact I'm the foreign minister so I take care of diplomatic affairs between our nation and others. Though to be honest, Her Majesty is such a socialite she might as well do the job for me. Oh but she's great, I do like working for her."

"I'm Miss Hanamura's assistant." Sakura spoke up for herself. "I assist her in her duties and I take care of matters when she's abroad or simply out of the office."

"I also brought her along to document the trip and take a few pictures but most of all just learn and try her hand at some diplomacy, so-to-speak."

"Well thankfully it's just a party so not the fate of nations resting on my shoulders."

[Kafair]

"Indeed, once the oubreak was cleared, this place was nearly a ruin, replie Thomas with a sigh. I don't want to brag, but if our Empire didn't inject hundreds of millions into the local economy to help them reconstruct, who knows what it would look like today.
-Anyway, continues Ophelia, if I may ask Prince, what are you searching for at this party? asks the Duchess with a smile that could be considered half-mischevious. Allies, trade partners, or just looking to have some fun?"

The prince nods while Thomas speaks. He turns to the duchess, a small smile on his face. 'A mix of the above, and a little more. My father, sun bless him, has been looking for allies in other parts of the world. Trade, exchanging of information and more. And, when he asked who wish to go, I volunteered. I was interested about this nation, and chose to come here for some learning, and to... enjoy myself."

[The Selkie]

As Aurelia answers them, Yuri and Catherine keep their attention fully to their interlocutors, not missing the hard look in Fara's eyes, and understanding the meaning behind it.
"Don't worry, replies Yuri with a small smile to Aurelia, Anna is in the same state of mind as she was twelve years ago when he was shot in the lung: a mix of sadness, anger and fear, although this time, the anger is clearly the strongest emotion among the three. Not because he asked for you, she understood the reasons behind it and accepted them, but for not having taken Pavel with him inside the room, not outside.
-If I may say, Princess Fara, interrupts Catherine as she speaks to the older Princess, I know perfectly what those eyes mean. And I would like you tell him the real words behind it. That won't stop him though from doing it again, but he will take more precautions. And besides, he likes to do this, and has always said: I'd rather die doing something I love rather than something I hate.
-Indeed, continues Yuri. Anyway, back to Anna. So, since she was angry, and to somehow give him a bit of a punishment for making her worry again like in 2007, she chose to hit him where their relations is the most intense. I'm sure you see perfectly what I mean, he adds with a wink. I'll let them tell you more later. So Ladies, if you'll please follow me again, finishes the Baron as he shows the path leading up the rock towards the mansion, before starting to walk again, followed by the four women.
"So, aside from that, he says as they walk up, how did the month of September went for you?" he asks the two Princesses, as well as the Baroness.

Volkan Yasif Dal
"I understand, don't worry, replies Volkan with a smile. Although you don't know if you'll ever need them again, he continues as he takes a sip of his glass. Powder and ammunition may one day come to run out, and we'll have to rely on more ancient ways of fighting.
Anyway, I hope that you wear good protections for this sport, especially for the back in case you're thrown off your steed. So, when you lift your opponent off the saddle, does he always falls off afterwards, or does he sometimes remain in saddle?"

Harris Brecken
"Thank you, replies Harris with a smile. Don't worry, if you want, I can wait till next year that the weather is better again.
In any case, that's an interesting story you told me, thank you for sharing it with me, he continues with a small bow of the head. For me, life didn't started bad. I grew up in a cozy suburd of Manchester, England, my dad being a school teacher and my mom a secretary at the local city hall. My grades in schools were pretty average, I could have gotten better ones if I just tried a bit harder. My only favourite class was Physical Education, and that's when I tried parkour, and fell in love with it.
After high school, I would have loved to continue my passion, but my parents were against it, and sent me to learn Political Science. Three years after, I was out of Manchester University with a License Degree in my pocket, and the fact that now that I had fulfilled this part of the moral contract I had made with my parents, I was now free to do what I wanted with my life.
So, I ended up becoming a parkour instructor, it didn't bring a stready paycheck everymonth, but at least I was making what I loved the most in life. And when Harran announced that it would host the World's Atheltic Championships in 2014, I came here, with nothing but my savings and a bunch of visit card in my pockets, to try my luck.
Although just after I arrived, the virus outbreak struck the city, and I ended up creating and leading a small community of survivors, who would become known as The Tower, who I would train in parkour to help them navigate and escape the zombies easily.
In the end though, I became infected, made my time of four months as a feral being, and ending up being like this, he says as he gestures to himself. And when Jasmine took the throne Kyle recommended me to her for the job of Foreign Minister, given my past and my relationship skills. And that's where I am now, he finishes with a small chuckle. Although to be honest, I made two more years in Political Sciences at the Old Town University.
By the way, could you please explain to me what is Swordancing precisely? I have been talking with Volkan about it before, but we could not find or understand what it was precisely."

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
"How about for him to not die, then?", Fara asked, her eyes clearly showing bemusement, "Though, I guess, making sure of that is in the purview of the Baron Morozov, was it?"
She looked to me and I nodded, confirming the name.
We continued on our merry way, Fara's facial expression not softer in any way, shape or form.
"My September was great.", I told Yuri, honestly meaning it, "I was able to traverse the oceans again to travel to the Festival of Holy Light in the UIS." I smiled at Marcella, my hand squeezing hers. "No politics, no diplomacy, no nothing, just us two and Aldhiyb for a few days. It was wonderful!"
No need to mention the variety of interviews I had given after my return, plus the need for the Horseman Team of the HGA to find new members to replace the losses sustained... and checking, who was still ready, willing and capable of riding under the HGA's banner.
Thankfully, Soraya was on her feet again and at training like a madwoman! Images of her and me and the others during training had already been published in famous yellow press outlets.
I was sure, that they were aware of that.

Liliane Lile of the Tribe of Fermanagh.
"The objective is to lift him or her out of the saddle and on the ground.", I said and smiled slightly. "Sometimes, it doesn't really work. Though, I believe you are imagining it to work a lot like jousting in European Tradition, but that's not really the case."
I let a beat pass.
"Unlike jousting, there two knights charge at each other to hit each other by the shield to throw each other off and once they hit pass each other for the next round, Bouting is..." I sought a word for it. "...more combat oriented. Granted, one versus one and not formation fights, but those are sometimes held, too, as spectacles and demonstrations, and for movies, of course."

Kendra Sciamhach of the Tribe of Waterford.
I was aware of huge parts of Brecken's vita, after all, we were prepared, so what he told me wasn't exactly new - or at least the majority wasn't. Still, I realized how different our vitas were.
Neither was better off or worse off, they were just... different.
He then asked for sworddancing - well, he was at the right address!
"Sworddancing is the performance of acrobatic armed dances, either for sportive purposes, entertainment or cultic purposes.", I explained, a bit textbook-like. "A good performer moves in a way, that tells a story, for every move has a specific meaning, and a well-interested audience knows these meanings as well." I let a beat pass. "Originally only cultic in origin and execution, it became a military excercise after the rise of the Orders in the 4th Century, under High King Áed the Hunter. Light Swordswomen like Enya, of Claimhteoir, became the foundational mothers of these Orders, in her case the Swordmaidens. Of course, they soon mounted themselves, but the practice never vanished."

[AHSCA]

Marcella shot her smile back at Aurelia when she mentioned the festival and being able to spend time together. Now she felt ready and able to speak. "It was wonderful to have Aurelia come down for the festival. We could see each other just as we are, not in business or politics. Just a bit of time for the two of us."

[Aviz Portugal]

As de Almeida stood firm considering the offer, he was able to shortly glance sideways towards the queen, hoping for a sign of approval.Luckily, it didn't take long for Isabella to make up her mind."If that's so, well then, I have no reasons to disagree", said her lightly.

[Global Harran]

The two kept walking side by side, with him now bringing up the topic of her Mark of the Starchild, which actually looked like the constellation Sagittarius, if someone rather knowledgeable about astronomy were to draw lines between the dots. She did, however, make it sound as trivial as possible.

"Oh, this? It's just a birth mark. All my sisters have one too." she shrugged and kept walking at the same pace. "So, you're from Scarlet Eagle, right? Would you mind telling me a bit about the place, please?"

Although Patrick could not name the constellation immediatly, he managed to remember its shape, and would look it up later.
"I don't mind at all, replies the Marquis as the two reach the buffet, and he makes a sign to a nearby waiter to bring them two glasses of lemonade. I hope you like lemonade, he continues as he hands one glass to the Baroness. I'll try to make it not too long, but be as precise as possible at the same time.
So, at the start, back in the 11th century, we have Thorvald Bogart, a follower of Leif Erickson's, Erik's the Red son, who led an expedition to Terra Nova in Canada. Thorvald chooses, along with other people, to venture further south, and lands in our actual northeastern state of Maine.
In about two centuries, his group and their descendants expands all along the East Coast, conquering the native tribes with ease, and establish their Kingdoms, who would be reunited in 1340 by the foundation of the First Empire of the Scarlet Eagle, led by Osgard Thorinov, King of the Urukay Kingdom.
As for how he founded the Empire, he had a vision one night of an Imperial Scarlet Eagle (which is an animal endemic to our nation, and the symbol of our religion, the Scarlet Eagle Spiritism), telling him that it was time to unite the Kingdoms under one banner.

Fifty years later, they have conquered all the lands west, up to the Mississipi River. But during this time, rivalries started to appear between the different Kings, which led to mismanagement of their domains, which leads to more problems that would culminate in the 1570s Great Famine.
At this time, a General named Anaximander Blachkov, the ancestor of our Emperor who is his namesake, got a vision one night as he was walking in the Appalachian Mountains, of a Scarlet Eagle, telling him that he was chosen by the Spirits to reborn a new Empire from the ashes of the first.
For the next 5 years, from 1575 to 1580, he would gather an army, and fight the different factions that were slowly emerging since the Empire was goingin shambles, which would culminate in the Battle of Point Lookout, against the last remnants of the Imperial Army.
After that, Anaximander would be crowned Emperor, and take the title of Anaximander The Great Blachkov, and the Second Empire of the Scarlet Eagle would be reborn.

In the next centuries, we would have to face several invasions from colonial powers, namely Spain, France and England, who would have a big advantage over us, given the fact we were still fighting with medieval weapons where our enemies had already musets and cannons. But after a few years of retroengineering of captured weapons, we would get the high ground, and push them back out of the Empire.
In 1849, after we had conquered all the remaining lands west up to the shores of the Pacific Ocean, a revolt of four of the nine Great Noble Families would happen, due to differences over management of ressources, would happen, but they would be crushed by the Imperial Family and the remaining Five Families, and their names would be erased from history.
After that, nothing too major for the rest of the 19th century, our involvment in the two World Wars, especially the Second where our Naval Base in Pearl Harbor was bombed, which led us to enter the war, the dropping of two atomic bombs on Japan in 1945, etc.
And finally, the Civil War that lasted from 2005 to 2008. And let's not forget the terrorists attacks of 9/11.

And that's pretty much our history in a nutshell, Baroness, finishes Patrick as he takes a sip of his glass. As you can imagine, being engaged in so many wars during our existence has made us a nation of militarists. But that does not mean we're evil, and always looking for more blood to be shed. We simply believe that to preserve peace, you must show that you are prepared for war.
So, now that I've said my part, would you mind telling me about your nation?" asks the Marquis with a smile.

"Oh well, not sure there's much to say about us, we just work under Her Majesty our Empress like anyone else. To be exact I'm the foreign minister so I take care of diplomatic affairs between our nation and others. Though to be honest, Her Majesty is such a socialite she might as well do the job for me. Oh but she's great, I do like working for her."

"I'm Miss Hanamura's assistant." Sakura spoke up for herself. "I assist her in her duties and I take care of matters when she's abroad or simply out of the office."

"I also brought her along to document the trip and take a few pictures but most of all just learn and try her hand at some diplomacy, so-to-speak."

"Well thankfully it's just a party so not the fate of nations resting on my shoulders."

"Don't fret yourself, Miss Shinguchi, replies Kyle with a smile. I don't doubt that you are very good at your job, and I can feel that you won't have much trouble being a good diplomat. You're right, this is just a party, so nothing too major is supposed to happen. Just a few discussions to maybe lay work to future trade accords or whatever.
Although, just so you know, one of the nations invited here have done something terrible against the Queendom, and their leader is here to reseolve the situation with our Queen.
-Basically, one of their doctors tried to kidnap some Volatiles, including the Sergeant that is leading the Squad that welcomed you at the entrance, to weaponize them. Needless to say, it ended badly for said doctor, explains Jade with a serious tone.
Anyway, Miss Hanamura, I read that in recent years, there has been a conflict between two of the Domains of your Empire, the Amaterasu and Hang-Gang Domains. Since I find very strange that two provinces of a country can go to war like this, can you please tell us more about it?"

The prince nods while Thomas speaks. He turns to the duchess, a small smile on his face. 'A mix of the above, and a little more. My father, sun bless him, has been looking for allies in other parts of the world. Trade, exchanging of information and more. And, when he asked who wish to go, I volunteered. I was interested about this nation, and chose to come here for some learning, and to... enjoy myself."

"Oh, you'll find plenty to learn, replies Thomas with a small chuckle. That's what I like most about this kind of party, you can talk more naturally than in more formal events.
So, speaking of information, why don't you tell us about your country, your Highness?" asks the Duke with a smile.

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
"How about for him to not die, then?", Fara asked, her eyes clearly showing bemusement, "Though, I guess, making sure of that is in the purview of the Baron Morozov, was it?"
She looked to me and I nodded, confirming the name.
We continued on our merry way, Fara's facial expression not softer in any way, shape or form.
"My September was great.", I told Yuri, honestly meaning it, "I was able to traverse the oceans again to travel to the Festival of Holy Light in the UIS." I smiled at Marcella, my hand squeezing hers. "No politics, no diplomacy, no nothing, just us two and Aldhiyb for a few days. It was wonderful!"
No need to mention the variety of interviews I had given after my return, plus the need for the Horseman Team of the HGA to find new members to replace the losses sustained... and checking, who was still ready, willing and capable of riding under the HGA's banner.
Thankfully, Soraya was on her feet again and at training like a madwoman! Images of her and me and the others during training had already been published in famous yellow press outlets.
I was sure, that they were aware of that.

Marcella shot her smile back at Aurelia when she mentioned the festival and being able to spend time together. Now she felt ready and able to speak. "It was wonderful to have Aurelia come down for the festival. We could see each other just as we are, not in business or politics. Just a bit of time for the two of us."

"I don't doubt that it was wonderful, replies Catherine to Aurelia and Marcella. I was there too, on Animalpolis, with Patricia. It's a really nice place for lovers to take some time for themselves.
-If my dear sister-in-arms says that, Duchess, explains Yuri to Marcella to clear any misunderstanding, it's because she is also in a relationship with my wife Patricia, on top of being married to Phillip, and Patricia to me.
Anyway, Princess Fara, continues the Baron in near perfect Kyrenaian as he speaks to the older Princess, it's the job of not just Pavel, but of everyone of my colleagues, to make sure Anax's derriere gets home in one piece. And in case you would have forgotten, it's Grand Duke Morozov, not Baron. Whether you made that mistake on purpose or not, I don't care. But if you please, try to not do it again. "

With that said, Yuri leads the group again, as they ascend the rock towards the mansion.
"September was great for all of us too, minus Anax's problem. As you see by the medal I'm wearing, he adds as he points to the medal around his neck, Anna and I participated in the Imperial Sniper Cup, an annual competition of the best SF sniper teams of the Empire. And we won for the 4th consecutive year. Well, it's not really consecutive, since the Cup didn't happen last year because of the Dollar Flu. But in any case, another victory for Anna and I. As for the rest of the team, our medics worked in ther respective specialties at the Downtown Hospital, and we did two or three operations, both abroad and at home, to neutralize targets. Same old, same old.
So, Aurelia-Amira, asks the Baron, how's your Squadron doing? We saw in your yellow press that they're back at training?"

Liliane Lile of the Tribe of Fermanagh.
"The objective is to lift him or her out of the saddle and on the ground.", I said and smiled slightly. "Sometimes, it doesn't really work. Though, I believe you are imagining it to work a lot like jousting in European Tradition, but that's not really the case."
I let a beat pass.
"Unlike jousting, there two knights charge at each other to hit each other by the shield to throw each other off and once they hit pass each other for the next round, Bouting is..." I sought a word for it. "...more combat oriented. Granted, one versus one and not formation fights, but those are sometimes held, too, as spectacles and demonstrations, and for movies, of course."

Kendra Sciamhach of the Tribe of Waterford.
I was aware of huge parts of Brecken's vita, after all, we were prepared, so what he told me wasn't exactly new - or at least the majority wasn't. Still, I realized how different our vitas were.
Neither was better off or worse off, they were just... different.
He then asked for sworddancing - well, he was at the right address!
"Sworddancing is the performance of acrobatic armed dances, either for sportive purposes, entertainment or cultic purposes.", I explained, a bit textbook-like. "A good performer moves in a way, that tells a story, for every move has a specific meaning, and a well-interested audience knows these meanings as well." I let a beat pass. "Originally only cultic in origin and execution, it became a military excercise after the rise of the Orders in the 4th Century, under High King Áed the Hunter. Light Swordswomen like Enya, of Claimhteoir, became the foundational mothers of these Orders, in her case the Swordmaidens. Of course, they soon mounted themselves, but the practice never vanished."

Volkan Yasif Dal
"You're right, I was imagining it like jousting in European tradition, replies the man as he scratches the back of his head with a sheepish smile. Anyway, hitting each other by the shield is way different than with a lance. I tried both once during a trip to Germany, at a medieval fair. Both left me falling on my behind! says Dal with a small laugh.
Anyway, thanks for those explanations, Miss Lile, he adds as he bows his head lightly in thanks. So, if I may ask, how do you enjoy your job as an Ambassador?"

Harris Brecken
The former parkour instructor turned Foreign Minister would also agree that his life was different compared to the one of his conversation partner.
"Oh, I see, replies Harris with a nod. I don't know if it can be considered even remotely similar, but I remember having read about a local Khan during the Ottoman Empire, who had his harem's wife perform dances with scimitars, while it was in fact a training to defend themselves should they be attacked or anything similar.
Anyway, could you please tell me more about this rise of the Orders, and what these Orders were? Because when I was preparing this party, as I was researching information about the Free Lands, I soon found out that there was so many things that I would not have time to read and understand everything before today. So that's why I chose to keep some of my questions for today. I hope you don't mind me doing that," he adds with an apologetic tone and smile.

[AHSCA]

"I don't doubt that it was wonderful, replies Catherine to Aurelia and Marcella. I was there too, on Animalpolis, with Patricia. It's a really nice place for lovers to take some time for themselves.
-If my dear sister-in-arms says that, Duchess, explains Yuri to Marcella to clear any misunderstanding, it's because she is also in a relationship with my wife Patricia, on top of being married to Phillip, and Patricia to me.
Anyway, Princess Fara, continues the Baron in near perfect Kyrenaian as he speaks to the older Princess, it's the job of not just Pavel, but of everyone of my colleagues, to make sure Anax's derriere gets home in one piece. And in case you would have forgotten, it's Grand Duke Morozov, not Baron. Whether you made that mistake on purpose or not, I don't care. But if you please, try to not do it again. "

With that said, Yuri leads the group again, as they ascend the rock towards the mansion.
"September was great for all of us too, minus Anax's problem. As you see by the medal I'm wearing, he adds as he points to the medal around his neck, Anna and I participated in the Imperial Sniper Cup, an annual competition of the best SF sniper teams of the Empire. And we won for the 4th consecutive year. Well, it's not really consecutive, since the Cup didn't happen last year because of the Dollar Flu. But in any case, another victory for Anna and I. As for the rest of the team, our medics worked in ther respective specialties at the Downtown Hospital, and we did two or three operations, both abroad and at home, to neutralize targets. Same old, same old.
So, Aurelia-Amira, asks the Baron, how's your Squadron doing? We saw in your yellow press that they're back at training?"

Marcella kept up her smile but in the back of her mind Catherine mentioned that she and Patricia were on Animalpolis, Marcella had a sinking suspicions these two were at least partly responsible for the little fuss that occurred but honestly she didn't think it was worth bringing up. A headache like that, best to just take lessons learned and move on. "Oh you were just there huh? By chance for our Festival or sometime before? I'm so glad many are finding our islands a nice destination to visit, I've been working hard to really change our public perception as isolationist to more friendly. We always have been just events in the late 90s...Well long story short, my mother, Shino, really kept the island to ourselves and most were content with that so please don't think ill of her for that but as they say, time heals all wounds so I think we're finally healed enough to not worry as much. Anyway so you're in a polyandrous relationship or an open relationship? To be honest that's still practiced quite a bit in AHSCA. Not for me really but still not unheard of to find multiple partners. My great-great-grandmother actually was known to have several lovers in her time. Considering how long she lived it shouldn't surprising."

[Kuronami]

"Don't fret yourself, Miss Shinguchi, replies Kyle with a smile. I don't doubt that you are very good at your job, and I can feel that you won't have much trouble being a good diplomat. You're right, this is just a party, so nothing too major is supposed to happen. Just a few discussions to maybe lay work to future trade accords or whatever.
Although, just so you know, one of the nations invited here have done something terrible against the Queendom, and their leader is here to reseolve the situation with our Queen.
-Basically, one of their doctors tried to kidnap some Volatiles, including the Sergeant that is leading the Squad that welcomed you at the entrance, to weaponize them. Needless to say, it ended badly for said doctor, explains Jade with a serious tone.
Anyway, Miss Hanamura, I read that in recent years, there has been a conflict between two of the Domains of your Empire, the Amaterasu and Hang-Gang Domains. Since I find very strange that two provinces of a country can go to war like this, can you please tell us more about it?"

"Oh my well that's a lot of baggage to unpack there. Let me see if I can make this brief. Well okay, well full disclosure here, you might have guessed but Amaterasu is where I and Shinguchi here are both from. So take it as you will, could be biases I cannot lie about that. Well our feud with our neighbor goes back centuries but things began to really get heated more sometime in the mid-19th century when the Emperor of Kuronami portioned off land to be granted back to Hang-Gang, land taken by Amaterasu sometime before the united Empire. So in the words of my own ancestors, taking away what was rightfully ours. Again their words, not mine! Well for a while it was mostly just a lot of looks and well a few incidents popping up here and there until an outright conflict broke out. And before we knew it, we were fighting our neighbors to the north. Hang-Gang at this time was more treated like a semi-autonomous territory, only had minor representation at the national level. There was some debate if it should be an independent state or annexed into the Empire and of course, there are those who believe it's apart of Amaterasu. It was once apart of another nation but centuries ago a massive earthquake in the region essentially sliced that peace of land essentially apart."

"Anyway if I may, Miss Hanamura" Sakura took over to keep things from getting longer "Since the resolve with the Empire's help, a peace deal was brokered but there's still a bit of animosity. To be honest it's mostly among older people now a days, like our grandparents and the like morose than today. Sorry to give it such a brief rundown but it's something we could be here all day with. It's a long complicated story of centuries of geopolitics, wars and well just many things to make your head spin. But we're glad, glad you have such an interest in our nation to know some of our history. Good, bad and everything between."

"Well said!" Benio agreed with her assistant. "Not our proudest moments but well you learn and you move on!"