A Volatile's Queen Garden Party (IC)

by **Mervay** » Mon Oct 21, 2019 6:13 am

Gladly things were good with all papers, the last thing she needed was her papers not being at rule and that would make her, how to explain it... Ohh yeah. Mad. To be late to a ball and then experience issues before the take-off because the climate and all, not a good combo.
Thank god everything was fine.

She just smiled at the guards as she entered, sighing relieved that at least she could enjoy at least a while. Meanwhile she entered, her eyes perked at noticing two persons.

They presented themselves as Suleiman Rais and Ezgi Jagir, Ministers of Defence and Security, and Minister of Energy and Resources. She accepted Rais hand and bowed at him and Ma'am Jagir with an gentle smile.

"Pleasure is mine Sir Suleiman and Ma'am Jagir." She smiled as she let a beat pass.

"I can say so... Well truth to be told... Not so much of a pleasant trip when you wait a few hours because an storm, but let's not focus about that alright??" Clearly she wanted to ignore that topic that made her a bit mad and she wanted to focus on another issues at hand.

"Sorry that I ask but could I ask for how long have the two of you been working as ministers??"

by **Kafair** » Mon Oct 21, 2019 11:18 am

Global Harran wrote:
"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.

"Of course. Kafair encompasses most of the territory that people consider the middle east. A large amount of desert, massive amount of coastline. Most of our civilians follow the state religion, one of few relics of our past, though many follow the more territory specific ones as well." He draws his sword, holding it point down. "We put plenty of focus into honor. Our warriors are some of the best in close combat, and we enjoy many close relationships with nations within the Confederation of Corrupt Dictators." He sheaths it again. "Thats about all. But, now to ask you, what is your nation like? My father would be interested to know more about this region of the world."

by **A m e n r i a** » Tue Oct 22, 2019 8:11 am

From Patrick's brief description, Hanbyeol concluded that this was a world where Vikings settled America instead of the British. She could imagine that being partly the reason for the Scarlet Eagle's martial culture. She wondered if their military is still Viking-themed as much as Amenria's military is advanced, but still had Wuxia themes. Her train of thought was interrupted when he asked her about Amenria. As much as she wanted to tell about her home country, she didn't know where to start, so she answered him with another question.

"Do you want to know about Korea before the Third World War or after? Or simply Amenria as a whole since it was founded?

by **The Selkie** » Thu Oct 24, 2019 1:53 am

Global Harran wrote:"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?"

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 wrote: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."

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
I saw, that Fara was tempted to point something, but Marcella's comment preempted her - and me, for that matter.
What both the Imperials and Marcella knew about was, that polygamous relationships were highly frowned upon in Kyrenaia - you had someone as boy-/girlfriend, fiancee or partner in marriage, that was it, no matter what. If nighttime activities weren't satisfying anymore, you had to make it exciting on your own and not whore around like it was apparently usual in the Empire and in the UIS. Once you separated, divorced or were widowed, it was a wholly different thing as you were single again in that case (like my Grandmother and her studfarm known as TBA demonstrated).
Fun tidbit: It was similar among the Selkie.
Still, I squeezed Marcella's hand. I knew, that she would not be unfaithful to me. I trusted her.
Still, it gave Fara enough time to smile the other Baron and speak to him in Kyrenaian: "I see, that your Kyrenaian improved. You sound like a school boy now.", she pointed out and I hid a giggle. "Now, you might want to look out for the pronounciation of..."
And from there she went, giving the poor man a lesson in pronounciation.

Liliane Lile of the Tribe of Fermanagh.
I nodded.
"So far, yes.", I replied, "It's of course a huge honour to represent my people towards the outside world, so you can imagine, how nervous I was at first!" I smiled. "But I already made a few trips, the acclimatation voyages, as the Foreign Office calls them, so being here is not much of a challenge. I am actually currently waiting for my partner as the official Ambassador of the Free Lands and until I have him, I'll hitch rides with the other groups - except Ambassador Group 1."

Kendra Sciamhach of the Tribe of Waterford.
I shook my head.
"I absolutely do not mind. After all, the wise person knows, that he has to learn, while only the fool assumes to know everything - or close to it.", I said and then thought for a moment, "The Orders came into being in the 4th century, Christian Calender - we use that one so that the communication with the outside world is easier. After all, Fourth Year of the Rule of High King Áed the Hunter would be a rather obscure date to you, wouldn't it?"
I let a beat pass.
"Anyway, the Orders came into being as an additional power factor to counter the rising Power of the Kings and other, more local potentates, while the Cults were more interested in establishing their own forces so that they had their own troops to escort their convoys and to protect their holy sites.", I explained, "The Lands of the Selkie in the 4th century are vastly different from the modern Free Lands. And, by the way, they still are."

by **Global Harran** » Fri Oct 25, 2019 9:25 am

"Then please follow me, says Karim Kerkazel as he leads the Portuguese Queen and her date inside the mansion.
As they enter, they can see they are currently in the main Atrium, with the walls painted in red, with golden representations of various plants painted over it, and going up to the ceiling. On the side opposite of the doors, another set of doors, (which are cirrently closed), leading outside on a small terrace overlooking the sea. On eother side of those doors, a set of stairs, leading to the first floor.
On the left and right sides, two other sets of double doors, the right leading to the service rooms of the mansion (kitchen, utility room, etc), and the left one to the Main Dining Room.
And finally, on the ceiling, is painted a gigantic sun over a sky blue background, with hanging down from the sun's center, a large crystal chandelier, with fake candle lightbulbs.
"So, this is the Main Atrium, explains the CEO of Harran Arms to the two guests. It is decoreated with two elements that our Queen adores above everything else: the sun, and plants. Originally, there was some large photos of various military assets of the former City State of Harran, before the outbreak, due to the fact that her former husband was a high-ranking miltary officer of the Harran Defense Forces. But after his death, and the rebirth of the country after the outbreak, she decided to overhaul the decoration completely."

With that said, he invites them to follow him to the Main Dining Room, where various square tables are positioned, each one with four chairs around them. In this room, the walls are painted in light green, with white wood columns on the sides. Between all of these columns, various paintings.
"This is the Main Dining Room, continues Karim. Usually, we have the tables positioned separated from each other like this, but when there's a lot of people for a meal, say if the Emperor of the Scarlet Eagle and his family come, then we gather all of them in one, long table.
Anyway, concerning the paintings, you'll remark that they're mostly about sceneries," he continues as he shows the different paintings, representings various things, such as grassy plains with snowy mountains in the background, white sand beaches and palm trees, etc.

However, among these paintings, two large ones immediatly catch the attention. The first one is a painting representing a humanoid figure, clad in red robes, with a golden and white mask over her face, extending her arms in a welcoming gesture. Around her, some ribbons are flying, and above her head, a sun in a sky blue background is shining.
The other one, positioned just above the south windows who allow a view of the garden down below, represent another humanoid figure, in black and white robes, with a small white sun painted in white over the black background of the robe, on the chest. This figure is wearing a wooden mask, blood-red colored, representing a face surrounded by sun rays. It is also extending its arms in a welcoming gesture.
Below the figure, some people, whose size is smaller than the figure, are kneeling. And on the sides of the painting, one can see visions of sickness, people looking like walking corpses, building on fire in the background.
But behind the tall figure whose extends its arms, the rays of the sun are shining, over a blood red sky.

"This painting represent the Mother, our Queen, explains Karim as he shows the first painting, as she was represented in local legends before everything happened with the outbreak. Because yes, the Mother's leadership and the Children of the Sun, our religion, are not something we made up after the outbreak. The local legends first mentioning this date back at least three centuries ago. And due to the outbreak, it gained popularity.
The main Prophecy of our religion, which is tied to the Mother, is this one, he continues as he shows the second painting. It represents the prophecy of the Sun's Child.
The prophecy goes like this:

When the world will be plagued by disease, when darkness will consume the Earth,
when men will become beasts, when mankind will be struck by the corruption of flesh and soul alike,
then a man shall appear, and by an act of ultimate sacrifice, he will accept the Light's Blessings.
Then the Sun God shall be revealed through him, and the God shall speak through him, and his voice would be the one of Light and Healing.
And he shall pass through the Gates of Death, in order to bring back life"

This prophecy was at the center of the Cult led by our Queen during the outbreak, and she believed, when she met our actual Prime Minister, that he was the man who was going to bring back life by his sacrifice. What this sacrifice meant actually, was that in order to get rid of the virus, one would have to activate ten nuclear warheads scattered aorund the city state, in order to cleanse the whole place by atomic fire.
So, as you can imagine now, it's good we didn't go with that prophecy, because we would be standing in a place worse than Chernobyl at this point, finishes Karim with a small chuckle.
So, Your Majesty, Sir, do you have any questions?"

"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!"

"Well, to be honest, replies Jade, when Kyle and I did some research about Kuronami, and we read this particular fact, we were asking ourselves how could a Domain could raise an army on its own, and fight with it.
-Indeed, continues Kyle. If something similar was to happen in the Empire, aka a war between two Noble Domains, you can be sure the Imperial Guard would be set into motion to quell this incident. So, if you don't mind me asking, is it written in your laws that a Domain can raise an army of its own and use it however they want?"

"You don't have to be sorry, replies Ezgi with a smile, we are glad to answer. I've been working as a Minister since 2016, and Rais has been working since the birth of the Queendom after the outbreak, so since the spring of 2015. And by the way, my name is Jazir, not Jagir.
-That I do, says Rais with a smile. So, Princess, if I may ask, how did your family reacted when you received the invitation? Weren't they scared?"

Thomas and Ophelia listen atentively to the Prince's explanation, but when he mentions the name of the aliance Kafair is part of, the Duke can't help but snort a bit, and try to cough to hide it.
"Sorry about that, I didn't mean any offense, says Thomas with an apologetic tone. It's just that for us, it's a king of weird name for an alliance. But I didn't mean to disrespect it, believe me.
-So, what is there to say about our country? asks Ophelia as she lightly taps her chin with her right index finger, deep in thought. Tell you what, we'll give you a quick explanation, and if you want us to clarify certain points, feel free to ask later.
Anyway, to start, continues the Duchess; the Empire is located in North America, between the countries of Canada and Mexico. So, as you guess, there's a bit of a distance between there and here in the Mediterranean.
Back in the 11th century, a group of Viking Warriors, who had followed Leif's Erickson to Terra Nova, were led by one of their own named Thorvald Bogart, and ventured further south, landing on the coasts of our actual state of Maine.
In the next two centuries, they would conquer the East Coast with ease, and establish Kingdoms, who united in 1340 to form the First Empire of the Scarlet Eagle, named after the endemic bird who appeared one night in the dreams of King Osgard Thorinov of the Urukay Kingdom.
During the next centuries, the Empire would expand its territories to the West, reaching the Mississipi in about 50 years. But at the same time, rivalries started to appear between Kindgoms over ressources and land, which led to mismanagement in their affairs, and a slow collapse which culminated in the 1570s 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, 2001, and the War on Terror that followed.

And that's pretty much our story in a nutshell. I hope I didn't bother you with too much details." finishes Ophelia with a smile.

"Well, if you don't mind, I would like for you to start before Amenria was founded, and especially about the Third World War, who I haven't heard of yet, at least in our dimension."
Just as he finishes his sentence, a pair of hands appear in front of his eyes, blocking his view.
"Guess who it is? asks a female voice with an enthusiastic tone from behind the Marquis.
-Honey, I appreciate this little joke, but I'm talking to an important guest, replies Patrick with a small chuckle. So why don't you come out?"
As he says that, from behind him emerges a young woman with short dark brown hair, her bangs longer on the right side, and green eyes, 1.90m tall. She is wearing a black ankle-length skirt, with red-wine leather boots, a white blouse with a black sleeveless vest, and a dark green cravat around her neck.
"Baroness, if I may introduce, says Patrick as he passes an arm around his wife's shoulder, I would like to introduce my wife, Alexandra "Sasha" Leonhart. Honey, this is Baroness Hanbyeol, of the Ramadhan Family from Amenria.
-A pleasure Baroness, says the Marquise as she extends her hand towards Hanbyeol. So, you were about to tell my husband about your country?"

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
I saw, that Fara was tempted to point something, but Marcella's comment preempted her - and me, for that matter.
What both the Imperials and Marcella knew about was, that polygamous relationships were highly frowned upon in Kyrenaia - you had someone as boy-/girlfriend, fiancee or partner in marriage, that was it, no matter what. If nighttime activities weren't satisfying anymore, you had to make it exciting on your own and not whore around like it was apparently usual in the Empire and in the UIS. Once you separated, divorced or were widowed, it was a wholly different thing as you were single again in that case (like my Grandmother and her studfarm known as TBA demonstrated).
Fun tidbit: It was similar among the Selkie.
Still, I squeezed Marcella's hand. I knew, that she would not be unfaithful to me. I trusted her.
Still, it gave Fara enough time to smile the other Baron and speak to him in Kyrenaian: "I see, that your Kyrenaian improved. You sound like a school boy now.", she pointed out and I hid a giggle. "Now, you might want to look out for the pronounciation of..."
And from there she went, giving the poor man a lesson in pronounciation.

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."

"First of all Duchess, replies Catherine to Marcella, please allow me to clarify the status of my relationship with Patricia. If I had to choose, I would rather describe it as polyandrous. You see she and I fell in love back at the end of our middle school years, when we were around 13-14 years old. We had a few flings together, etc. During the Civil War, we were mostly on the field, so we slowly drifted apart from each other. And after the war ended, we found ourselves drawn by our future husbands, Phillip in my case and Yuri for Patricia. But there was still this small part, inside of us that was yearning from the other, and it didn't took long for our boyfriends, and the rest of our comrades to catch up. So they told us about it, that we were free to do as we please, and our husbands weren't disturbed in the slightest by it. So that's why nowadays, even though we're in love dearly with our husbands, we still enjoy each other's intimacy once in a while. It's a strange way, but it works.
So, as for why we were in Animalpolisn there are a humber of reasons. First, because it had been some time since Patty and I had had some alone time with each other. Second, because we wanted to dicover the Islands for ourselves, seeing as how Princess Aurelia here had told us some good things about it, adds the Grand Duchess as she smiles at the blonde Kyrenaian woman.
And there's also two more reasons, which are a bit more touchy. If you don't mind, we'll talk about when we'll be with Anaximander and Anna."

Meanwhile, Yuri, contrary to what the Kyrenaians might be thinking, listens to Fara with great attention, nodding at times, and taking notes on his smartphone. He even asks questions about words he has doubts over the pronunciation. After all, the wise man knows that he'll always have to learn, doesn't he?

Volkan Yasif Dal
"I can imagine, I was nervous too when I came back on the inernational stage as CEO of my company, only changed into a Viral. But fortunately, the friends and acquaintances I had made over time were, for the most part, willing to look past that and continue our relationships and deals where we had left them.
If I may ask, how were you chosen? And also, why not Ambassador Group 1? Is it because they're full, or you do not want to work with its people?"

Harris Brecken
"Thank you, replies Brecken with a smile and nod. I agree, my father always told me that no matter what, I'll always have to learn something in my life. And yes, talking of this period of time by referring to a specific year of the reign of one of your Kings would be prety difficult to understand for someone who didn't had a history book opened with him, to help him search which year it was, he adds with a smile.
Concerning the Orders, I can't help but feel a similarity to the Order of the Knights Templar, who protected pilgrims who travelled from Jerusalem in the Middle Ages."
However, he does not continue his sentence, and he puts his hand to his mouth, as if he was suddenly remembering something.
"Please, accept my apologies for this comparison. I know that you were struck by a Crusade in the Middle Ages, and I feel I may have brought bad memories by saying that. I'm deeply sorry if I offended you, I didn't mean to. If you don't mind, can you tell me what do you mean when you say your country is still different? Different from what, exactly?"

by **Kuronami** » Fri Oct 25, 2019 11:00 am

Global Harran wrote:"Well, to be honest, replies Jade, when Kyle and I did some research about Kuronami, and we read this particular fact, we were asking ourselves how could a Domain could raise an army on its own, and fight with it.
-Indeed, continues Kyle. If something similar was to happen in the Empire, aka a war between two Noble Domains, you can be sure the Imperial Guard would be set into motion to quell this incident. So, if you don't mind me asking, is it written in your laws that a Domain can raise an army of its own and use it however they want?"

"A bit of yes and no. Each domain is allowed it's own force but the force cannot exceed the nation's forces. You have to remember, Kuronami has been a bit slower in developing compared to most industrial nations. We sort of hit an industrial peak and slowed down centuries ago. Regarding the conflict of Amaterasu and Hang-Gang, make no mistake, there was an Imperial intervention, but with all matters it's a delicate process, a need to arbitrate the concerns of both parties and prevent all out sedition by either Provence. Since then, we've worked to better give a voice for concerns with matters of individual states. It's a tricky thing, managing autonomy while also maintaining a central government. I won't pretend it's perfect but it's the system we've had for 300 years."

by **The Selkie** » Fri Oct 25, 2019 2:25 pm

Global Harran wrote:"First of all Duchess, replies Catherine to Marcella, please allow me to clarify the status of my relationship with Patricia. If I had to choose, I would rather describe it as polyandrous. You see she and I fell in love back at the end of our middle school years, when we were around 13-14 years old. We had a few flings together, etc. During the Civil War, we were mostly on the field, so we slowly drifted apart from each other. And after the war ended, we found ourselves drawn by our future husbands, Phillip in my case and Yuri for Patricia. But there was still this small part, inside of us that was yearning from the other, and it didn't took long for our boyfriends, and the rest of our comrades to catch up. So they told us about it, that we were free to do as we please, and our husbands weren't disturbed in the slightest by it. So that's why nowadays, even though we're in love dearly with our husbands, we still enjoy each other's intimacy once in a while. It's a strange way, but it works.
So, as for why we were in Animalpolisn there are a humber of reasons. First, because it had been some time since Patty and I had had some alone time with each other. Second, because we wanted to dicover the Islands for ourselves, seeing as how Princess Aurelia here had told us some good things about it, adds the Grand Duchess as she smiles at the blonde Kyrenaian woman.
And there's also two more reasons, which are a bit more touchy. If you don't mind, we'll talk about when we'll be with Anaximander and Anna."

Meanwhile, Yuri, contrary to what the Kyrenaians might be thinking, listens to Fara with great attention, nodding at times, and taking notes on his smartphone. He even asks questions about words he has doubts over the pronunciation. After all, the wise man knows that he'll always have to learn, doesn't he?

Volkan Yasif Dal
"I can imagine, I was nervous too when I came back on the inernational stage as CEO of my company, only changed into a Viral. But fortunately, the friends and acquaintances I had made over time were, for the most part, willing to look past that and continue our relationships and deals where we had left them.
If I may ask, how were you chosen? And also, why not Ambassador Group 1? Is it because they're full, or you do not want to work with its people?"

Harris Brecken
"Thank you, replies Brecken with a smile and nod. I agree, my father always told me that no matter what, I'll always have to learn something in my life. And yes, talking of this period of time by referring to a specific year of the reign of one of your Kings would be prety difficult to understand for someone who didn't had a history book opened with him, to help him search which year it was, he adds with a smile.
Concerning the Orders, I can't help but feel a similarity to the Order of the Knights Templar, who protected pilgrims who travelled from Jerusalem in the Middle Ages."
However, he does not continue his sentence, and he puts his hand to his mouth, as if he was suddenly remembering something.
"Please, accept my apologies for this comparison. I know that you were struck by a Crusade in the Middle Ages, and I feel I may have brought bad memories by saying that. I'm deeply sorry if I offended you, I didn't mean to. If you don't mind, can you tell me what do you mean when you say your country is still different? Different from what, exactly?"

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Catherine's clarification indeed clarified, that the two women were unfaithful to their husbands, which was a cause for ostracism both among the Kyrenaians and the Selkie. Caja Glór of the Tribe of Laois, a former Ambassador of the Selkie, could tell a story about that...
How even the accusation could almost destroy a person.
Anyway, when Patricia mentioned the reasons why they had been there in the first place, I understood the first reason, but when she mentioned that there were two others, I drew blank. I knew, that the Chandshar and the Naval Intelligence had information packages, which they kept from me. Maybe there was something in those?
Meanwhile, Fara was not surprised by the willfullness of her student, but more like egged on, giving him a lesson, which he would never forget - and in a speed, which challenged even native speakers, with examples and everything.
The wise man might know, that he still has to learn, but even the wise man would, at one point, ask for a moment to catch up.

Liliane Lile of the Tribe of Fermanagh.
"Let's just say, that Marla and I don't really get along too well...", I said with a bit of caution, "That and she is an Ambassador of the Selkie, too, her group being AG1, so they already have that spot filled." I let a beat pass. "As for how I was chosen, you'll have to ask Miss Sciotóg about that, though I guess being one of the best Marcach currently in the League played a major role."
I grinned at that.

Kendra Sciamhach of the Tribe of Waterford.
I was silent for a moment.
"To be honest, it brings up bad memories...", I said, "...of my days with the Younger Militia, as the only Pike Girl of my year, me being a bit short for my age and rather petite, with our Training Sergeant yelling into my ear, that if girls like me had stood at Creetown, we would now pray to a bloke stupid enough to get nailed to a wooden cross."
I shrugged.
"Not exactly politically correct, but being that was not part of his job.", I finished my tale, then added: "And what I meant by being different is, that the Free Lands are not the same Lands as by the time of Áed the Hunter or of Gwen Lách... Daideo sometimes doesn't recognize the Free Lands. We are changing considerably - not only due to SEA. It'll be interesting times in the future."

by **Kafair** » Mon Oct 28, 2019 9:26 am

Global Harran wrote:
Thomas and Ophelia listen atentively to the Prince's explanation, but when he mentions the name of the aliance Kafair is part of, the Duke can't help but snort a bit, and try to cough to hide it.
"Sorry about that, I didn't mean any offense, says Thomas with an apologetic tone. It's just that for us, it's a king of weird name for an alliance. But I didn't mean to disrespect it, believe me.
-So, what is there to say about our country? asks Ophelia as she lightly taps her chin with her right index finger, deep in thought. Tell you what, we'll give you a quick explanation, and if you want us to clarify certain points, feel free to ask later.
Anyway, to start, continues the Duchess; the Empire is located in North America, between the countries of Canada and Mexico. So, as you guess, there's a bit of a distance between there and here in the Mediterranean.
Back in the 11th century, a group of Viking Warriors, who had followed Leif's Erickson to Terra Nova, were led by one of their own named Thorvald Bogart, and ventured further south, landing on the coasts of our actual state of Maine.
In the next two centuries, they would conquer the East Coast with ease, and establish Kingdoms, who united in 1340 to form the First Empire of the Scarlet Eagle, named after the endemic bird who appeared one night in the dreams of King Osgard Thorinov of the Urukay Kingdom.
During the next centuries, the Empire would expand its territories to the West, reaching the Mississipi in about 50 years. But at the same time, rivalries started to appear between Kindgoms over ressources and land, which led to mismanagement in their affairs, and a slow collapse which culminated in the 1570s 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, 2001, and the War on Terror that followed.

And that's pretty much our story in a nutshell. I hope I didn't bother you with too much details." finishes Ophelia with a smile.

The prince frowned a little at the Duke's reaction, than smiled at his explanation. "It is a bit of a strange name." He turns to Ophelia. "Not at all. The more information, the better! I must say, your nation has such a rich history. I assume you are proud of it. IN your place, I would be." He thinks for a moment. "I wonder. Do you know any other delegates from nations around here at this party? I must make it a point to meet them."

by **AHSCA** » Mon Oct 28, 2019 11:10 am

Global Harran wrote:"First of all Duchess, replies Catherine to Marcella, please allow me to clarify the status of my relationship with Patricia. If I had to choose, I would rather describe it as polyandrous. You see she and I fell in love back at the end of our middle school years, when we were around 13-14 years old. We had a few flings together, etc. During the Civil War, we were mostly on the field, so we slowly drifted apart from each other. And after the war ended, we found ourselves drawn by our future husbands, Phillip in my case and Yuri for Patricia. But there was still this small part, inside of us that was yearning from the other, and it didn't took long for our boyfriends, and the rest of our comrades to catch up. So they told us about it, that we were free to do as we please, and our husbands weren't disturbed in the slightest by it. So that's why nowadays, even though we're in love dearly with our husbands, we still enjoy each other's intimacy once in a while. It's a strange way, but it works.
So, as for why we were in Animalpolisn there are a humber of reasons. First, because it had been some time since Patty and I had had some alone time with each other. Second, because we wanted to dicover the Islands for ourselves, seeing as how Princess Aurelia here had told us some good things about it, adds the Grand Duchess as she smiles at the blonde Kyrenaian woman.
And there's also two more reasons, which are a bit more touchy. If you don't mind, we'll talk about when we'll be with Anaximander and Anna."

Meanwhile, Yuri, contrary to what the Kyrenaians might be thinking, listens to Fara with great attention, nodding at times, and taking notes on his smartphone. He even asks questions about words he has doubts over the pronunciation. After all, the wise man knows that he'll always have to learn, doesn't he?

"I'm glad Aurelia can speak it up so highly! That's why I love her!" She went to a slightly concerned expression when they mentioned there were a couple touchy subjects to be discussed. That could be anything from good but personal to bad and now we're staging a coup against you. Okay that last one is silly for sure but she only hoped it wouldn't come down to a belittling of her as a Duchess. "I see..I suppose yes we can save that for a little later."

by **Global Harran** » Sat Nov 09, 2019 2:10 pm

"I understand, replies Kyle with a nod. Still, in my opinion, each Domain having the right to its own force is a potential spark for chaos. Meh, at least your system works, finishes the Prime Minister with a grunt.
-Anyway, continues Jade to change topics to one that may be more pleasant for everyone, I'm curious about what you may tell us about your Empress, Ortfiné von Eylstadt. Because even though I've heard of her being a very social person, I've yet to know what she's really like."

Catherine, while listening to Marcella with a nod, feels very well the dissaproval of Aurelia concerning her special relationship with Patricia, a subject that had been discussed during the return visit of the Kyrenaians to the Empire a few months back.
Meanwhile, Yuri is indeed challenged in following Fara's lesson, but fortunately, he is recording everything on his smartphone, so he will be able to look it later. And due to the fact that during his Scarlet Ranger training, his instructor Colonel Bradley Myers had not been very kind with him and his friends, and had taught them to learn and understand fast if they didn't want problems, he has not many problems following the Kyrenaian's Princess's words.
However, as he hears Marcella answer to Catherine, he makes a pause gesture to Fara, then turn to the three other women.
"Don't worry Duchess, their reasons are not something like they were there to scout potential landing beaches for an amphibious landing or something like that. Still, you'll most likely raise an eyebrow, like we all did in the Squadron when they told us, ads the male Pettenko, before turning back to Fara and motioning her to continue.
-That's true, replies Catherine with a small laugh. Anyway, she adds to Marcella and Aurelia, I forgot to tell you that Agathe, Anax's mother, is not here tonight. Due to the stress caused by his injury, she made a burnout, and has to rest for some time."

At this time, the small group has finally arrived to the mansion on top of the rock, Yuri and Catherine saluting the two Volatile Guards at the entrance.
"If anyone needs to use the bathroom, they're here, says Yuri to the three female guests as they stand in the same lobby the Portuguese were moments ago.

Volkan Yasif Dal
"I see, simply replies Volkan when she mentions her bad relations with Marla.
In any case, since Marchachs are a huge part of your culture, I imagine that's a good reason indeed, but I don't think it's the only one. Do your people think looks are important or not? I mean the physical look of a person, if they're beautiful or not."

Harris Brecken
"At least you survived, simply replies Brecken. Anyway, let's change topics if you will. Since tonight is a sort of zombie party, are there any stories of zombies in your Lands? I've heard some things about the Great Woods, but nothing about undead and such."

"And proud we are indeed, replies Ophelia with a smile. As for who is here tonight, we have rhe Kuronami Foreign Minister and her assistant, some Selkies, two Kyrenaian Princesses who are on their way to meet with our Emperor and Empress, the Portuguese Queen, and the AHSCA Duchess.
-And speaking of meeting, continues Maximilian who had been checking something on his smartphone, I just received a message that our host, Queen Jasmine Morenai would like to meet you now, in her office. Care to follow us? Asks the Duke to the Prince and his bodyguard.

by **AHSCA** » Sat Nov 09, 2019 2:31 pm

Global Harran wrote:"Don't worry Duchess, their reasons are not something like they were there to scout potential landing beaches for an amphibious landing or something like that. Still, you'll most likely raise an eyebrow, like we all did in the Squadron when they told us, ads the male Pettenko, before turning back to Fara and motioning her to continue.
-That's true, replies Catherine with a small laugh. Anyway, she adds to Marcella and Aurelia, I forgot to tell you that Agathe, Anax's mother, is not here tonight. Due to the stress caused by his injury, she made a burnout, and has to rest for some time."

At this time, the small group has finally arrived to the mansion on top of the rock, Yuri and Catherine saluting the two Volatile Guards at the entrance.
"If anyone needs to use the bathroom, they're here, says Yuri to the three female guests as they stand in the same lobby the Portuguese were moments ago.

"Ah I guess I don't have much of a good card playing face if you could tell I'm a bit concerned. But I'll listen." once arrived they were informed if they needed to use a restroom Marcella shook off "I'm just fine, thank you."

Global Harran wrote:"I understand, replies Kyle with a nod. Still, in my opinion, each Domain having the right to its own force is a potential spark for chaos. Meh, at least your system works, finishes the Prime Minister with a grunt.
-Anyway, continues Jade to change topics to one that may be more pleasant for everyone, I'm curious about what you may tell us about your Empress, Ortfiné von Eylstadt. Because even though I've heard of her being a very social person, I've yet to know what she's really like."

(Two birds with one stone, right?)

There was a bit more back and forth about the need for semi-autonomy versus complete centralism in Kuronami's system of government but it seemed they were ready to move on so were the ladies here.

"Oh you want to know more about, Finé huh?" Benio mused "Boy where to begin...." She mused "Well maybe if you have questions about her, I can start. I feel a great deal about her is public knowledge, her outgoing personality, friendliness, warmness, tough exterior, tomboyish nature. The second daughter of her family behind her older sister."

by **The Selkie** » Sat Nov 09, 2019 3:01 pm

Global Harran wrote:Catherine, while listening to Marcella with a nod, feels very well the dissaproval of Aurelia concerning her special relationship with Patricia, a subject that had been discussed during the return visit of the Kyrenaians to the Empire a few months back.
Meanwhile, Yuri is indeed challenged in following Fara's lesson, but fortunately, he is recording everything on his smartphone, so he will be able to look it later. And due to the fact that during his Scarlet Ranger training, his instructor Colonel Bradley Myers had not been very kind with him and his friends, and had taught them to learn and understand fast if they didn't want problems, he has not many problems following the Kyrenaian's Princess's words.
However, as he hears Marcella answer to Catherine, he makes a pause gesture to Fara, then turn to the three other women.
"Don't worry Duchess, their reasons are not something like they were there to scout potential landing beaches for an amphibious landing or something like that. Still, you'll most likely raise an eyebrow, like we all did in the Squadron when they told us, ads the male Pettenko, before turning back to Fara and motioning her to continue.
-That's true, replies Catherine with a small laugh. Anyway, she adds to Marcella and Aurelia, I forgot to tell you that Agathe, Anax's mother, is not here tonight. Due to the stress caused by his injury, she made a burnout, and has to rest for some time."

At this time, the small group has finally arrived to the mansion on top of the rock, Yuri and Catherine saluting the two Volatile Guards at the entrance.
"If anyone needs to use the bathroom, they're here, says Yuri to the three female guests as they stand in the same lobby the Portuguese were moments ago.

Volkan Yasif Dal
"I see, simply replies Volkan when she mentions her bad relations with Marla.
In any case, since Marchachs are a huge part of your culture, I imagine that's a good reason indeed, but I don't think it's the only one. Do your people think looks are important or not? I mean the physical look of a person, if they're beautiful or not."

Harris Brecken
"At least you survived, simply replies Brecken. Anyway, let's change topics if you will. Since tonight is a sort of zombie party, are there any stories of zombies in your Lands? I've heard some things about the Great Woods, but nothing about undead and such."

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Indeed, they knew my opinion on their whoring around while being married and they, thankfully, knew better then to speak up about it.
But, to be honest, I was more interested in something else: When Yuri motioned for Fara to stop to give his five cents, she looked bemused for a moment, listened to his point, and when he motioned for her to continue, she spoke in clear School Kyrenaian to him: "Then, a final lesson for you for today: When a Princess of Kyrenaia deigns you worthy of getting a lecture by her, you listen to her. A Princess of Kyrenaia is not a record player you can pause and unpause at will."
She made a dismissive hand gesture, much like a haughty Princess would tell a Handmaiden to bugger off, then turned to Marcella and me.
"My apologies, but I believe, we have to delay for a moment.", I said, smiling apologetically, "I have to go, where Little Princesses sometimes need to go."
Fara nodded. "Sure, I'll keep Marcella company.", she said and smiled at my girlfriend as I walked off with a "Be right back!"

Liliane Lile of the Tribe of Fermanagh.
I gave a thin smile. So, in essence, he was asking us, if we were vain.
"Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.", I replied. "Many great philosophers anywhere spent much time trying to get down to the mysteries to it, but at the end of the day, they did not come even close to decyphering its mysteries." I let a beat pass. "And while quite a few foreigners attest beauty to me and my colleagues, that matters little to us. What matters for a Marcach, the plural is Marcachi, by the way, is skill, not the size of the mammaries."
I had the feeling, that this was not, what he meant.

Kendra Sciamhach of the Tribe of Waterford.
"Then you either define it too narrowly or you didn't listen well enough.", I replied with a small smile, "There are many ghost stories all around the Free Lands, from ghost ships, as in ships manned by ghosts, to apparitions and other such encounters. The Horror Movie Industry has long since discovered that, Snáthaidí Milleadh, The Needles of Milleadh, being one popular example." I smiled. "Indeed, the stories of the aftermath of the Rape of Milleadh are... manyfold."

by **Global Harran** » Sat Nov 16, 2019 8:53 am

"That's a lesson I shall remember Princess, replies Yuri to Fara in Kyrenaian wth a humble tone. And for that, I would like to present you my most sincere apologies, he adds with an apologetic tone and a bow of the head.

Meanwhile, Catherine looks at her male colleague while rubbing her temple, her facial fratures clearly showing she's asking herself how she's going to break the situation to her friends waiting upstairs.
Once Aurelia has come back, the blonde Alpha motions to the stairs, asking "Shall we?" to the guests.

Volkan Yasif Dal.
"I see what you mean, replies the industrialist, although that's not exactly what I meant. I simply wonder if your Foreign Office will put looks before skills when they appoint a person as ambassador. Although from wat you've told me, the answer seems to be no.
Say, speaking of the size of the mammaries, how do your people explain the fact that you have a more important part of the female population that have them, compared to most countries in the world?"

Harris Brecken
"I didn't know there was that many stories, replies Brecken with a suprised tone. Do you have any good books that might complie them somehow? And also, concerning The Needles of Milleadh , I've seen it, not too bad I'll say. I wonder, how much of what is shown in it could be considered at least partially true? Because I find it hard to believe that someone might be impaled by a black form coming out of nowhere."

(Indeed,

)

"Interesting, replies Crane with a nod. Although if she's the second daughter, then why didn't her sister become Empress? Because from the litle I've read about your nation, you have an elective monarchy, but the von Eldstat family has been ruling for the last two hundred years."

by **Kuronami** » Sat Nov 16, 2019 12:51 pm

Global Harran wrote:"Interesting, replies Crane with a nod. Although if she's the second daughter, then why didn't her sister become Empress? Because from the litle I've read about your nation, you have an elective monarchy, but the von Eldstat family has been ruling for the last two hundred years."

"A good question there. If we must be honest we really don't know ourselves. It's the choice of the families to pick their heir it's not default the first born. If it were that would have gone to her brother, Benjamin. We can imagine her father was trying to play the game strategically by grooming him to become the next Duke of Eylstadt and offered up one of his daughters. While he could have gone for the Lady Countess Magdalen von Eylstadt he instead chose Ortfiné. We ourselves can only speculate on his choice there, beyond he felt she would be best. As for the Previous Emperor, he was a second cousin twice removed of Her Majesty and didn't leave or name any heirs before his death. A bit of complicated family history there as he was in love with his younger sister but of course could never wed her or have her bear children. At least none that are known of. The elective part of our monarchy really is a contingency for such an event. No heir then each Domain needs to put up a candidate and thus our Legislators have to take up the vote. I know, complicated probably more than it needs."

"Actually it's kind of interesting, Empress Ortfiné wasn't the only younger sibling put up for the candidacy. From our own domain, Lady Amaterasu put up her younger sister as candidate. I suppose as much as all noble families want the throne they also still want to keep the Domain in their immediate family. As another interesting fact, did you know whoever is on the throne is where our Capital city is designated. Of course Caloris has been the capital for centuries, we have yet to move it but it's there. Had Princess Tomoyo been crowned then Sonomi would have been the capital. A guilty side of me kind of wishes that had happened." She giggled a bit.

by **The Selkie** » Sat Nov 16, 2019 2:22 pm

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
I did not know, what Fara did while I was gone, but judging by the fact, that she looked decidedly miffed and by the fact, that I thought, that Yuri might have apologized, the answer to that question was, that she did not accept the apology.
Not yet.
If there was an apology, of course.
Anyway, I nodded to Catherine. "From my side, sure. Fara?"
The older Princess nodded. "Yes, let's get this over with."

Liliane Lile of the Tribe of Fermanagh.
And he didn't mean that, just like I predicted.
Well, not completely - only to ask, why Selkie-Women were well-equipped.
I smiled slightly. Pervert.
"Well, I would say a gift of Rhiannon, as well as good food and better training. Plus, Selkie-Women have developed a few tricks over the centuries.", I said, then shrugged, "Though I doubt, that the discussion of those would be suited for such a gathering."

Kendra Sciamhach of the Tribe of Waterford.
I smiled.
"Let's just say, that there is a reason why the Sealsaill's English name is Woodstalker.", I replied to the latter point, "I know a few Children of the Great Woods, who would be delighted to tell you of their own experiences in the Great Woods and of the stories of their ancestors." I let a beat pass. "As for how much of what is shown is considered true... hmm..." I hummed, as if I was thinking. "...everything."

by **Mervay** » Tue Nov 19, 2019 7:26 pm

Ouch... Yeah not the best way to present herself with such mistake... Great... The last thing she needed to happen.

"My apologies for such error Ma'am Jazir. I didn't noticed it, please accept my deep and sincere apologies." Ariadna bowed very apologetic of her mistake, clearly she had so many stuff on her head. Hopefully this was the last time it happened.

The rest of the story she heard it and listened entirely, albeit she wanted to correct her mistake there in order to hear the rest. Which she did entirely.
Then the million question came, were they, well, was she, scared of coming here on her own to an nation made of zombies?? Obviously yes. In fact they wanted to send a group of soldiers with her, an entire company... Of course that was straight out denied by... Well almost everyone. Of course it was understood the fear but, with that antidote and other foreign diplomats it shouldn't happen nothing to worry about.

Still they wanted an answer and so she would give them an honest answer.

"To be honest, yes. However we did our homework and investigated about you all as much as we could so we could think with our feet on the ground. Luckily we did and here I'am." She chuckled and then smiled at them, the most easiest way to explain it all without having to involve any military personnel being attempted to be brought here as security. No one would want that and neither The Princess to be at the middle of an international embarassment.

by **Global Harran** » Fri Nov 22, 2019 11:47 am

"That's a lot of information to take in, replies Jade with a smile, but indeed, the previous Emperor was wise to not lay with his sister. I've seen once aborad a child whose parents where brother and sister, and well... let's just say that he would have been better off dead.
-Indeed, I remember that, continues Crane. To answer your question Miss Hanamura, yes, we knew that your capital is the main city of the Domain of the current Emperor. The Kyrenaians, who the Empire interacted with, have the same system. And the only thing I have to say is this."

With that said, Kyle raises his right hand in front of him, palm facing him, and facepalms with force.
"Sorry, but for for me, this system has one major drawback. What if during the transfer of the government from one city to the next, one of the convoys carrying loads of paperwork is destroyed by something? Nowadays, we don't have that kind of problem, with computers, cloud servers and harddrives, but what of before? One single bandit attack and you can have important historical or sensible archives lost to history!
-Calm down honey, says Jade as she puts her hand on his shoulder. Even though I agree with you, they must have had measures in place even in the back when times.
In any case Ladies, continues the Minister as she turns to the Kuronamians, can you please remind us who this Lady Countess Magdalen von Eylstadt is? I don't remember having her name appear in the notes we were given. And please excuse my boyfriend's outburst.
-Yeah, sorry about that," finishes Crane with a sheepish smile.

With a nod from everyone, Yuri starts to ascend the spiral stairs towards the upper floors of the mansion, the stairs having a blue carpet decorated with golden maple leaves, and the handles being made of wood, specificallfy mahogany.
After a few moments, they arrive to the third floor, wherre the stairs end up at a crossroads, with a corridor going left and right. In front of them when they arrive, large windows allow a view on the garden below, with the rest of the attendants mingling; the Outer Courtyard with the Guards Barracks, and in the background, the mountains covered in trees.
After a few seconds of stop, to allow Fara, Aurelia and Marcella to look a bit out if they want, Yuri turns left in the corridor and resumes walking, passing some doors, while on the walls, various film promotional posters are framed, from many different genres, from western to science fiction.
Once they arrive at the bend where the corridor turn right to continue down one of the aisles of the mansion, the small group finds himself standing in front of a black, wooden door. Engraved on it, the two coat of arms of the Blachkov and Melnik families.
If one needed proof that they were standing at the door of the Imperial's couple private quarters, that would be it.

Once the whole group is standing in front of the door, Yuri presses on a small metallic bar, located on the door at eye level.
"He's ringing to announce our presence, explains Catherine to the three other female guests. This may not seem like it, but these doors are not completely wooden, but are in fact armored and soundproof. So if you want to announce your presence, you need to ring."

Volkan Yasif Dal
"Maybe discussing these tricks are indeed not suited for this kind of gathering, but then again, the fact that we're reformed zombies is what makes this event special. Just so you know, I'm not the only one interested in this matter, our Queen herself also asks herself this question.
In any case, I've been asking question on question since we've been talking, but have yet to ask if you have questions."

Harris Brecken
"I haven't heard of that creature before, would you mind if I checked on my phone what it looks like?" asks the Foreign Minister to Kendra.
"As for Milleadh, really? I mean concerning these teens lost in the woods. If nothing was found, then how were you able to retrace the story?"

"Apology accepted, replies Ezgi with a warm smile. Don't fret about it, it's not a big deal. In fact, people usually have a tendency to mistake my first name's pronunciation rather than my last name, mistaking the G's pronunciation and saying it sounding like a J.
-As for investing about us, a good decision it was, continues Rais. I understand that your family would have had you come with an entire platoon or company, but trusting's the host security is often the best first step in establising good relations. Not to mention the fact that a Volatile is one of the hardest creatures on Earth, even without any protections or armor. I could show you someimages from the pandemic back in 2014, what was left of a Volatile's victim is... messy, to say the least.
In any case, would you like something to drink?" finishes Rais with a smile, as Ezgi flags a passing water to come to them

by **AHSCA** » Fri Nov 22, 2019 11:59 am

What reason was there for Marcella to be even a little nervous right now? Honestly not much, so why was she nervous? She still was anxiously awaiting to hear what they had to say in regards to her country, which honestly it was easy to always harp on the not as pleasant aspects, the so-so economic situation, the constant tug-a-war of tradition versus following the herd, honestly she wouldn't be in the mood to hear all the negative aspects if it was that but it was best to keep an open mind. Her eyes darted between the various people who were guiding her and Aurelia along plus, Aurelia herself. The two hadn't had much time to talk, given they'd been whisked from one spot to another in a hurry and constantly being spoken to by their hosts. Well it was a party for many guests, not just THEM after all so can't really complain. Should she reach out her hand to Aurelia's? Well a memory came up, her time with Empress Fine at a wedding party be calm, be confident, be courageous and show them AHSCA has earned it's place in the world, dammit! And as for Aurelia well also to quote the Kuronami Empress, that's what friends and girlfriends are for!. At least this wasn't a party of all their regional neighbors.

"This is an interesting place you have. But I must ask why are we being whisked away from the party? I mean it seems like we're putting you out here by having you walk us to some other part of the mansion. I'm flattered obviously that you think highly of me to want to speak a little more personally."

by **The Selkie** » Fri Nov 22, 2019 2:34 pm

Global Harran wrote:[...]
With a nod from everyone, Yuri starts to ascend the spiral stairs towards the upper floors of the mansion, the stairs having a blue carpet decorated with golden maple leaves, and the handles being made of wood, specificallfy mahogany.
After a few moments, they arrive to the third floor, wherre the stairs end up at a crossroads, with a corridor going left and right. In front of them when they arrive, large windows allow a view on the garden below, with the rest of the attendants mingling; the Outer Courtyard with the Guards Barracks, and in the background, the mountains covered in trees.
After a few seconds of stop, to allow Fara, Aurelia and Marcella to look a bit out if they want, Yuri turns left in the corridor and resumes walking, passing some doors, while on the walls, various film promotional posters are framed, from many different genres, from western to science fiction.
Once they arrive at the bend where the corridor turn right to continue down one of the aisles of the mansion, the small group finds himself standing in front of a black, wooden door. Engraved on it, the two coat of arms of the Blachkov and Melnik families.
If one needed proof that they were standing at the door of the Imperial's couple private quarters, that would be it.

Once the whole group is standing in front of the door, Yuri presses on a small metallic bar, located on the door at eye level.
"He's ringing to announce our presence, explains Catherine to the three other female guests. This may not seem like it, but these doors are not completely wooden, but are in fact armored and soundproof. So if you want to announce your presence, you need to ring."

Volkan Yasif Dal
"Maybe discussing these tricks are indeed not suited for this kind of gathering, but then again, the fact that we're reformed zombies is what makes this event special. Just so you know, I'm not the only one interested in this matter, our Queen herself also asks herself this question.
In any case, I've been asking question on question since we've been talking, but have yet to ask if you have questions."

Harris Brecken
"I haven't heard of that creature before, would you mind if I checked on my phone what it looks like?" asks the Foreign Minister to Kendra.
"As for Milleadh, really? I mean concerning these teens lost in the woods. If nothing was found, then how were you able to retrace the story?"
[...]

AHSCA wrote:What reason was there for Marcella to be even a little nervous right now? Honestly not much, so why was she nervous? She still was anxiously awaiting to hear what they had to say in regards to her country, which honestly it was easy to always harp on the not as pleasant aspects, the so-so economic situation, the constant tug-a-war of tradition versus following the herd, honestly she wouldn't be in the mood to hear all the negative aspects if it was that but it was best to keep an open mind. Her eyes darted between the various people who were guiding her and Aurelia along plus, Aurelia herself. The two hadn't had much time to talk, given they'd been whisked from one spot to another in a hurry and constantly being spoken to by their hosts. Well it was a party for many guests, not just THEM after all so can't really complain. Should she reach out her hand to Aurelia's? Well a memory came up, her time with Empress Fine at a wedding party be calm, be confident, be courageous and show them AHSCA has earned it's place in the world, dammit! And as for Aurelia well also to quote the Kuronami Empress, that's what friends and girlfriends are for!. At least this wasn't a party of all their regional neighbors.

"This is an interesting place you have. But I must ask why are we being whisked away from the party? I mean it seems like we're putting you out here by having you walk us to some other part of the mansion. I'm flattered obviously that you think highly of me to want to speak a little more personally."

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
The mansion, which we were led through, was built to impress and on some, it might have that effect, but... well... I'm a Princess of Kyrenaia. People will have to do a bit better then some rare woods and movie posters to impress me.
And some indeed did manage to do so, to the point, that even Father was not above an impressed nod. Yasir of Markaz, for example.
But that aside, as we were led through the halls, I felt Marcella's eyes on me.
Oh, how I wished to drag her aside and to shove my tongue down her throat... I had missed her so much! Yet, I could not do so.
I knew, that she considered grasping my hand, but for now, we would have to make do... I threw her a little smile, which shone like the Sun. We would have our chance to be together, to hold hands and each other, later.
Yet, her question was a good one.
"I would presume...", Fara answered for our hosts, "...that Emperor Anaximander wishes to speak with you about things, which are not meant for the ears of other Ambassadors and Dignitaries. Or the intelligence services, which they will undoubtedly report to." I nodded reassuringly and knew, what she meant. Not a singular word, which Anax spoke to either of us, would go unreported. "That being said..." Fara smiled at Marcella, softly, a bit like a big sister. "...if you do not wish for either myself or for Aurelia or for both of us to be present during your conversation with Emperor Anaximander, please say so. We will understand. Be aware, however, that Kyrenaia will stand by its word."
Fara was referring to the guarantees, I knew that, and I knew, that Kyrenaia took its word very seriously. If things became too hairy, we would intervene, if we were present.
And I knew, that Fara held Marcella dear to her heart - not because of her being in love with the other woman, but because Marcella was dear to my heart.
Fara was of Lasite Blood, after all.

Liliane Lile of the Tribe of Fermanagh.
"I must admit, that our briefing covered most of what might be important.", I replied, "So... I don't really have many questions. Except one." I let a beat pass. "How would you characterize the relationship between the Queendom and the Empire of the Scarlet Eagle?"
It was about as subtle as a brick smashing you in the face, I admit, but subtlety was not something I was being paid for...

Kendra Sciamhach of the Tribe of Waterford.
"Go ahead, look them up.", I said with a nod, "As for the reconstruction, the Children of the Great Woods certainly know how to read tracks and how to follow them, drawing conclusions from them... and, of course, the bodies of some were found. Mostly in pieces." I shrugged. "Of course, we do not know, what the exact words at which point were, but a bit of creativity never hurt anyone."

by **Global Harran** » Sun Nov 24, 2019 11:06 am

What reason was there for Marcella to be even a little nervous right now? Honestly not much, so why was she nervous? She still was anxiously awaiting to hear what they had to say in regards to her country, which honestly it was easy to always harp on the not as pleasant aspects, the so-so economic situation, the constant tug-a-war of tradition versus following the herd, honestly she wouldn't be in the mood to hear all the negative aspects if it was that but it was best to keep an open mind. Her eyes darted between the various people who were guiding her and Aurelia along plus, Aurelia herself. The two hadn't had much time to talk, given they'd been whisked from one spot to another in a hurry and constantly being spoken to by their hosts. Well it was a party for many guests, not just THEM after all so can't really complain. Should she reach out her hand to Aurelia's? Well a memory came up, her time with Empress Fine at a wedding party be calm, be confident, be courageous and show them AHSCA has earned it's place in the world, dammit! And as for Aurelia well also to quote the Kuronami Empress, that's what friends and girlfriends are for!. At least this wasn't a party of all their regional neighbors.

"This is an interesting place you have. But I must ask why are we being whisked away from the party? I mean it seems like we're putting you out here by having you walk us to some other part of the mansion. I'm flattered obviously that you think highly of me to want to speak a little more personally."

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
The mansion, which we were led through, was built to impress and on some, it might have that effect, but... well... I'm a Princess of Kyrenaia. People will have to do a bit better then some rare woods and movie posters to impress me.
And some indeed did manage to do so, to the point, that even Father was not above an impressed nod. Yasir of Markaz, for example.
But that aside, as we were led through the halls, I felt Marcella's eyes on me.
Oh, how I wished to drag her aside and to shove my tongue down her throat... I had missed her so much! Yet, I could not do so.
I knew, that she considered grasping my hand, but for now, we would have to make do... I threw her a little smile, which shone like the Sun. We would have our chance to be together, to hold hands and each other, later.
Yet, her question was a good one.
"I would presume...", Fara answered for our hosts, "...that Emperor Anaximander wishes to speak with you about things, which are not meant for the ears of other Ambassadors and Dignitaries. Or the intelligence services, which they will undoubtedly report to." I nodded reassuringly and knew, what she meant. Not a singular word, which Anax spoke to either of us, would go unreported. "That being said..." Fara smiled at Marcella, softly, a bit like a big sister. "...if you do not wish for either myself or for Aurelia or for both of us to be present during your conversation with Emperor Anaximander, please say so. We will understand. Be aware, however, that Kyrenaia will stand by its word."
Fara was referring to the guarantees, I knew that, and I knew, that Kyrenaia took its word very seriously. If things became too hairy, we would intervene, if we were present.
And I knew, that Fara held Marcella dear to her heart - not because of her being in love with the other woman, but because Marcella was dear to my heart.
Fara was of Lasite Blood, after all.

"I think it's better for all our sakes if you Princesses are present when Anax and Anna settle things with the Duchess, say a female voice from behind the group.
As they turn their heads towards the source of the voice, the group would be able to see a tall woman (1.88m tall), with green eyes and long blonde hair tied in a braid going down to the middle of her back, and held together at the end by a brooch made of amethyst representing grapes, exiting a room they had passed.
On the door of said room, two coat of arms are also engraved, the ones of the Morozov and Dipaloski families. Although one could argue that this in fact showed the Queendom was a puppet state of the Empire, by allowing such room decorations for the Imperial Couple and high-ranking nobles, they would be countered by the wellknown fact that the Imperial Couple and the Morozov Couple had become very close to Queen Morenai, a fact which could be easily confirmed by the photograph framed on the wall between the two rooms, which depicted the four Imperials (Anax, Anna, Pavel and Alicia) with Jasmine in the center, all sitting at a table around a large cake, with a decoration on said cake saying : BFFs cake. And if not convinced by that, the Kyrenaians would have already heard tales straight from the Emperor's mouth.

This young woman, who Fara and Aurelia would have recognized as Grand Duchess Alicia Morozov, is wearing a dark green, ankle-length, long-sleeved dress with a v-neck showing a bit of cleavage, with a wine-red leather jacket on top, and boots the same color as her jacket.
Once she has closed the door to her room, the Alpha Squadron Leader of the Empress puts her keys inside her jacket, and advances toward the group, briefly puting her hand to her forehead to reflect the salute of Catherine and Yuri.
"Hey girl, she says as she bumps fist with Catherine, before setting her gaze on Yuri for a second, laying a very cold look on the male Petrenko. Princess Fara, Princess Aurelia, good to see you again as well in top shape. And Duchess Marcella Villa, it is an honor and a joy to finally make your acquaintance, finishes Alicia as she turns to the smaller woman and bows to her, before extending her hand. Grand Duchess Alicia Morozov, Colonel and Squadron Leader in the Personal Guard of her Imperial Majesty Empress Anna Blachkov."

Volkan Yasif Dal
"You ask a very good question, replies Volkan with a smile, one I will happily answer because it will allow me to demolish a tenacious impression, and that is the fact that many people, including you I'm sure, belive that we're just a puppet to the Imperials. Which is false.
Anyway, I'll say that they were the only ones around the world, during and after the outbreak, willing to put money, supplies, people, and most importanttly, time, to help us go through and rebuild. Had we been on our own, we would still be picking up the pieces.
In any case, they helped our businesses and our people get back on their feet, and when the whole situation was looking positive again, and money was starting to get back into the country, they sold most of their stocks in the local businesses, including mine, only keeping a small share. And even though we have offered them multiple things, from letting them build a military base here, to even fight their wars for them, they always refused, telling us the reconstruction and everything they did was normal, and establishing an equal relationship, not a submissive one, between our two countries, would be what they ask in return. Even though we owe them greatly, they don't want to take advantage of it, and insist we also do things on our own.
To give you a comparison, I would describe this relationship as being more or less similar to the one between the UIS of AHSCA and the Sultanate of Kyrenaia. The Sultana sees the Duchess as an equal, just like the Imperial Couple and our Queen. finishes the industrialist
Of course, without all that Hyena game nonsense," he adds ith a bit of disgust in his voice.

"So, you've asked about our relationship with the Empire, but how would you describe your relationship with the Kyrenaians?" asks Volkan after a few seconds.

Harris Brecken
"Okay, thank you, replies the Foreign Minister before taking out his smartphone and typing on it.
So, he continues as he looks back up to Kendra, while the internet browser does its job, since those kids didn't listen to the Children's advice and met their doom as a result, does that mean that if they had asked the old man to guide them to the village, would he have been able to do so? I mean, are the Children protected against these paranormal ghosts and demons, due to their ties with the forest, or can they be subject to the same demise if they venture in the wrong place?"

by **The Selkie** » Sun Nov 24, 2019 11:33 am

Global Harran wrote:"I think it's better for all our sakes if you Princesses are present when Anax and Anna settle things with the Duchess, say a female voice from behind the group.
As they turn their heads towards the source of the voice, the group would be able to see a tall woman (1.88m tall), with green eyes and long blonde hair tied in a braid going down to the middle of her back, and held together at the end by a brooch made of amethyst representing grapes, exiting a room they had passed.
On the door of said room, two coat of arms are also engraved, the ones of the Morozov and Dipaloski families. Although one could argue that this in fact showed the Queendom was a puppet state of the Empire, by allowing such room decorations for the Imperial Couple and high-ranking nobles, they would be countered by the wellknown fact that the Imperial Couple and the Morozov Couple had become very close to Queen Morenai, a fact which could be easily confirmed by the photograph framed on the wall between the two rooms, which depicted the four Imperials (Anax, Anna, Pavel and Alicia) with Jasmine in the center, all sitting at a table around a large cake, with a decoration on said cake saying : BFFs cake. And if not convinced by that, the Kyrenaians would have already heard tales straight from the Emperor's mouth.

This young woman, who Fara and Aurelia would have recognized as Grand Duchess Alicia Morozov, is wearing a dark green, ankle-length, long-sleeved dress with a v-neck showing a bit of cleavage, with a wine-red leather jacket on top, and boots the same color as her jacket.
Once she has closed the door to her room, the Alpha Squadron Leader of the Empress puts her keys inside her jacket, and advances toward the group, briefly puting her hand to her forehead to reflect the salute of Catherine and Yuri.
"Hey girl, she says as she bumps fist with Catherine, before setting her gaze on Yuri for a second, laying a very cold look on the male Petrenko. Princess Fara, Princess Aurelia, good to see you again as well in top shape. And Duchess Marcella Villa, it is an honor and a joy to finally make your acquaintance, finishes Alicia as she turns to the smaller woman and bows to her, before extending her hand. Grand Duchess Alicia Morozov, Colonel and Squadron Leader in the Personal Guard of her Imperial Majesty Empress Anna Blachkov."

Volkan Yasif Dal
"You ask a very good question, replies Volkan with a smile, one I will happily answer because it will allow me to demolish a tenacious impression, and that is the fact that many people, including you I'm sure, belive that we're just a puppet to the Imperials. Which is false.
Anyway, I'll say that they were the only ones around the world, during and after the outbreak, willing to put money, supplies, people, and most importanttly, time, to help us go through and rebuild. Had we been on our own, we would still be picking up the pieces.
In any case, they helped our businesses and our people get back on their feet, and when the whole situation was looking positive again, and money was starting to get back into the country, they sold most of their stocks in the local businesses, including mine, only keeping a small share. And even though we have offered them multiple things, from letting them build a military base here, to even fight their wars for them, they always refused, telling us the reconstruction and everything they did was normal, and establishing an equal relationship, not a submissive one, between our two countries, would be what they ask in return. Even though we owe them greatly, they don't want to take advantage of it, and insist we also do things on our own.
To give you a comparison, I would describe this relationship as being more or less similar to the one between the UIS of AHSCA and the Sultanate of Kyrenaia. The Sultana sees the Duchess as an equal, just like the Imperial Couple and our Queen. finishes the industrialist
Of course, without all that Hyena game nonsense," he adds ith a bit of disgust in his voice.

"So, you've asked about our relationship with the Empire, but how would you describe your relationship with the Kyrenaians?" asks Volkan after a few seconds.

Harris Brecken
"Okay, thank you, replies the Foreign Minister before taking out his smartphone and typing on it.
So, he continues as he looks back up to Kendra, while the internet browser does its job, since those kids didn't listen to the Children's advice and met their doom as a result, does that mean that if they had asked the old man to guide them to the village, would he have been able to do so? I mean, are the Children protected against these paranormal ghosts and demons, due to their ties with the forest, or can they be subject to the same demise if they venture in the wrong place?"

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
When Alicia arrived, her own door carrying her families' crests as well (yeah, right, the Queendom was no puppet-state, because they were all BFFs, like the cake said... try to sell me oceanfront property in the Saltsea, I might fall for that), Fara and I nodded as greetings.
We were already in business mode.
So... they believed, that it would be best, if we were present for whatever Anaximander had to tell Marcella. I had to agree, I preferred to be there for my girlfriend, but it was... an interesting mode of doing things.
Now, it was time for us to wait for the things, which would come. Marcella had the initiative now.

Liliane Lile of the Tribe of Fermanagh.
Oh, you poor, poor man... I pitied you and your countrymen, really, I did - and that was before I knew about the special rooms for Anaximander and his bodyguards, which were practically reserved for him by the way of family crests engraved onto the doors.
The Hyena's Game, as the Kyrenaians called their perpetual game of politics and power, was something, that no one could escape. Not even a country full of zombies, who were under the protecting umbrella of a larger power. And the Queen of this place might feel equal to Anaximander, maybe not only because he said so (one more indicator, that he sucked at politics), but in truth, she wasn't. Anaximander didn't strike anyone as a man, who wouldn't collect his debts.
Still...
"Oh, we and the Sultanate?", I said, shrugged, "A relationship of mutual respect and historical experience. Though, one can not characterize the relationship between us and them in a few sentences and not without mentioning other places in our general vicinity. Truly, volumes have been written about that topic!"
Well, the relationship did go back to the ages of Princess Macha at least.

Kendra Sciamhach of the Tribe of Waterford.
"No, they're not protected.", I replied with a grin, "They just know, where to go and where not to go." I let a beat pass. "As for the old man, he would most certainly not led them Milleadh, but to one of the villages of the Children in the Great Woods. Charming places, usually tourists don't really get there."

by **AHSCA** » Sun Nov 24, 2019 12:01 pm

Marcella's heart did swell with a little joy at always hearing how steadfast the good people of the Sultanate would standby her. Actually she was ready to assert her own confidence, having remembered some of Fine's sage advice to her and say she'd be okay on her own but it seemed their hosts insisted that The Princess and Duchess remain together. Well, who was Marcella to complain. A woman introduced herself. "Oh, well the pleasure is mine, Colonel." Marcella gave a curtsy back. "Glad to meet one of the Majesty's own personal guards. Having a fair few myself, I know it's a tough job but they're always wonderful."

by **Kuronami** » Sun Nov 24, 2019 12:14 pm

Global Harran wrote:"That's a lot of information to take in, replies Jade with a smile, but indeed, the previous Emperor was wise to not lay with his sister. I've seen once aborad a child whose parents where brother and sister, and well... let's just say that he would have been better off dead.
-Indeed, I remember that, continues Crane. To answer your question Miss Hanamura, yes, we knew that your capital is the main city of the Domain of the current Emperor. The Kyrenaians, who the Empire interacted with, have the same system. And the only thing I have to say is this."

With that said, Kyle raises his right hand in front of him, palm facing him, and facepalms with force.
"Sorry, but for for me, this system has one major drawback. What if during the transfer of the government from one city to the next, one of the convoys carrying loads of paperwork is destroyed by something? Nowadays, we don't have that kind of problem, with computers, cloud servers and harddrives, but what of before? One single bandit attack and you can have important historical or sensible archives lost to history!
-Calm down honey, says Jade as she puts her hand on his shoulder. Even though I agree with you, they must have had measures in place even in the back when times.
In any case Ladies, continues the Minister as she turns to the Kuronamians, can you please remind us who this Lady Countess Magdalen von Eylstadt is? I don't remember having her name appear in the notes we were given. And please excuse my boyfriend's outburst.
-Yeah, sorry about that," finishes Crane with a sheepish smile.

Good heavens the Duchess of AHSCA likely had her hands full with how much they seemed to poke and prod into any one nation's system of government. Benio could also add that any building of Government importance can face just as much trouble between natural or man made disaster but it seemed the good lady digressed trying to just move along and defuse anything.

"Very well." Benio nodded in acceptance of the apology "The Countess or rather now the Princess, is the Eldest daughter and sister of the Von Eylstadt family. She is Ortfine's older sister. Again much like the now Duke she very well could have been considered for the role of Empress but again it's apparent the former Duke, their father felt differently. the Countess Magdalen is always quite the object of much affection for many high ranking men but she has yet to really find her match. She's sought a few foreign suitors as well with not much luck. Well I'm sure she'll land on her feet soon enough."

by **Aviz Portugal** » Mon Nov 25, 2019 11:25 pm

While it can be admitted that the queen's royal secretary was more of the listening type while the queen herself was strayed in her beautiful surroundings, the two seemed pretty pleased by what they've saw.When asked if they had further questions regarding the site, initially, none of them moved a muscle but the Royal Secretary opened his mouth to speak, in a somewhat teasing manner."Well Sir, if this is the treat for visitors, then I couldn't be more thankful if Her Majesty's parents had mandated me as the queen's date", blurted de Almeida while the queen, seemingly trying her best to hide her flattered emotions let out a polite chuckle.

by **Global Harran** » Tue Dec 03, 2019 2:28 pm

"Thank you Duchess, replies Alicia with a smile. Although if I may say, not all your Personal Guards are your childhood friends, nor they are all highborn like us.
In any case, continues the blonde Morozov as she looks to Aurelia, I would like to know if you also intent to report to your...intelligence services the private conversation you'll have with the Emperor, Princess?, she says with a serious tone.

Just as she finishes her sentence, behind her can be seen Phillip and Patricia emerge from the staircase, and coming towards them.
And right on their heels, three Appalachian Wolfdogs. The smaller one in the center (but still as tall as half a German Sheperd) has a reyish-blue fur on the top, with his belly being beige. The one flanking him on the right has a dark brown fur on the top, and a white one in his belly, while the one on the left is compeltely black.
These three canines are respectively Oronar (Anaximander's Wolfdog, which he got a year ago for his birthday as a puppy), the other two are Cairo and Gopnik, belonging respectively to the Leonhart and Petrenko couple.

Volkan Yasif Dal
Volkan knew that indeed, the Harranis would be pitied if they spoke such things, but given the fact the Queendom was already in a... privileged relation in the Empire (and he was also aware that no one would believe that his country was no puppet-state), he doubted the Sultanate would take much interest in the Queendom, at least for now.
"Interesting, he simply replies on a neutral tone. Say, I don't see you male colleague, where has he gone? he asks Liliane as he looks around. Not going around gobbling all the cheese again? Yes, this small piece of info got into our ears."

Harris Brecken
"Okay, replies the Foreign Minister with a small smile. I have bee tempted to visit these villages myself, I shall do that on my next week off.
If I'm saking all those questions about Milleadh, it's because some of the Queen's Volatile Guards, who have seen the movie, are thiking about going there, but think that arriving by helicopter straight to the village would save them the troubles we see in the movie. But I suppose this would not stop the curse, would it? Don't worry, the Queen is a 100% against such a move."

"I hope she can get someone who wants her for who she is, and not just for her position, says Jade with a smile. In the case she would marry a foreign man, as you just said, wat would happen? Would she got aborad to that man's country, or would she remain and that man would become Duke's consort?"

"I'm glad you like her Majesty's decoration tastes, replies Kerkazel with a smile and a small bow of the head. You're right, it's the usual treat for visitors, although I'll be honest, aside from the Imperials, you're among the first ones who really like it. The other very few guests we had here sometimes felt uneasy seing those paintings.
In any case, care for something to drink? asks the Harran Arms CEO. I know I do."

A Volatile's Queen Garden Party (IC)

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