Something Domestic (IC, Closed, ending soon)

[Emerstari]

KVP
Sun Palace in Seoul Joseon
Masquerade Room | Night | Erik XII Georg

The King was not much one for handshakes, feeling the need to wash his hand afterwards, but he put up with such things at public events; he tried to covertly rub his hand off by placing it upon his scabbard. "I was invited, — with the Markion crowd, that is," Erik explained to the Rhamosian, whose name he was not privy to yet. "I suppose some call me Erik XII Georg of Emerstari and so on," he continued; those close to him called him Erik or Erik Jakob, but not only was this not quite the event for that name, he wasn't sure of this man's status. "You would be the third person, excluding the person I arrived with, — a cousin, — I have met tonight; the second person who I was not already acquainted with who I have encountered , so that leads to the question: what had I ought to call you, my friend? And whence do you come?"

[Republic of Altos and Stratis]

Haida stopped, trying to look as if he was not startled. Who was it who had recognized him? And more importantly, why did they want to speak?

But glancing up, he had his answer. The woman was not a JVP citizen, or a reporter. In fact, Haida recognized her uniform. Actually, it wasn’t just that. He knew her face, as well.

“Not really, Captain Christensen. I don’t usually make time for Congressional sympathisers, much less those who supply their war effort.”

Brooke, Sun Palace in Seoul Joseon, Masquerade Room

Brooke was taken aback by Haida’s response, but it didn't phase her. She had been expecting it to come up eventually, but she didn’t expect it to come up in the first 30 seconds of conversation. She quickly bounced back with a retort.

“If you consider delivering relief supplies and humanitarian aid to be supplying their war effort, so be it.”

But before she was able to truly get into it with Haida, it seemed that someone else wanted to talk with the Admiral.

KVP
Thomes, Duke of Ekkesburg

The Duke had waited for Haida to get up the stairs before following him; he gave little regard to the woman walking behind him, not imagining she could be connected to the situation in the GU whatsoever. He continued up the stairs, still keeping some distance though not as much, — he was not nearly as concerned about the possibility of getting caught as Haida was, — and then he heard, "So Admiral, do you have time for a chat?" Thomes paused on that. He looked at her briefly. He knew a couple of things for sure: that she was not a native of the JVP, that (at least according to him) what she had to tell the Admiral was not nearly as important as what he had to, and that she wasn't going to help him in any way. Thomes didn't put together that she was an Amerian agent, though, — not by any means. "Sorry to interrupt, but do excuse me," he announced in an accented sort of English, proceeding up the stairs some. He planned to, if the woman did not leave, explore this new level of the palace for awhile.

“You are excused” she turned to resume walking up the stairs but paused to say some final words.

“I do wonder how the Green Union handles traitors though.” And with that final exchange, she stormed off to find the bar. All of this spy crap had begun to irritate her, and she needed a drink.

Kerrigan, Sun Palace in Seoul Joseon, Bar

Kerrigan had watched the entire exchange between Kyong and Min-Jun from the background. Far away enough to not be noticed, but still close enough to observe.

“Damn, that looked like it hurt.”

As she watched Min-Jun get dragged off she saw an opportunity to sneak up on Nova, so she could surprise her. Kerrigan had managed to work her way behind Nova, who appeared to be engaged in a conversation with three men.

“Hmm, that's odd, she isn’t usually that sociable”

However, unbeknownst to Kerrigan, Nova had been working her way through a second brandy. Leaning in close Kerrigan whispered into Nova’s ear. “Surprise”

Nova, Sun Palace in Seoul Joseon, Bar

Nova was still recovering from the shock of the bar fight, she had been harassed before, but things usually didn’t escalate to fisticuffs. And she was still wrestling with the fact that Kyong had challenged his brother to a duel. “Damn things are different here” Duels had not been commonplace in Ameria for some time. Quickly finishing her drink and signaling for another one, she turned back to the ever-growing conversation around her. Kyong had suddenly become very popular, he had even attracted the attention of Temurazi the boxer he had been talking about earlier. They had even managed to have a bit of a moment amongst it all, which had brought a smile to her face. But it had only lingered for but a moment and then it was gone.

"I'm sorry may lady for not introducing myself earlier. Admiral Noah Son." He said, extending his hand, but quickly looking over to the display of affection that this boxer was giving to Kyong. "Maybe I was right about the boy." He said softly, before returning his attention to Nova.

This proved to be the moment that the Admiral who had somewhat scolded Kyong had decided to introduce himself, as Admiral Noah Son.

“It's nice to meet you, admiral” giving him a quick but firm handshake

“Hmm, he's handsome, I wonder if Brooke would like to meet him.” Nova wondered how Brooke was doing with her assignment, it had been a while since their last text.

Kerrigan & Nova, Sun Palace in Seoul Joseon, Bar

Suddenly she felt someone very close, and then they said “Surprise.”. Turning to look she saw a woman with dark red hair, with a black and red mask. Confused, she looked at the uniform the woman was wearing, it was identical to her own, however, the nameplate gave her all the clues she needed.

“Kerrigan!” Nova exclaimed as she gave her a quick hug.

“Glad you could make it.”

“So am I” Kerrigan responded

“So, are you going to introduce me to your handsome friends?”

[The JVP]

This proved to be the moment that the Admiral who had somewhat scolded Kyong had decided to introduce himself, as Admiral Noah Son.

“It's nice to meet you, admiral” giving him a quick but firm handshake

“Hmm, he's handsome, I wonder if Brooke would like to meet him.” Nova wondered how Brooke was doing with her assignment, it had been a while since their last text.

Kerrigan & Nova, Sun Palace in Seoul Joseon, Bar

Suddenly she felt someone very close, and then they said “Surprise.”. Turning to look she saw a woman with dark red hair, with a black and red mask. Confused, she looked at the uniform the woman was wearing, it was identical to her own, however, the nameplate gave her all the clues she needed.

“Kerrigan!” Nova exclaimed as she gave her a quick hug.

“Glad you could make it.”

“So am I” Kerrigan responded

“So, are you going to introduce me to your handsome friends?”

Son

The handshake Son and Nova shared, told him a few things. One, she was not just a pretty faced female officer. This woman had earned her stripes, the other thing was that she was no nonsense, and she earned her way to what ever position she had. He could use more women like her in his staff. Everyday he had to deal with some young female staff officer, running to his office crying about how she was past over for promotion. When questioned, he would quickly understand that they were passed over for a reason.

But he put these thoughts past him, as another young female sneaked up behind. Son was almost about to say something, and tell he seen her uniform. 'Hmm, a friend most likely.' And he was right, as the two smiled and hugged. Kerrigan was this new persons name, and seeing the scares on her face, Son could hint that maybe she had seen combat some where. But scares and all, she still held a kind of beauty, that he would not see in most.

Kyong

"Your drink Admiral." Kyong said, passing the drink over to Son, just this Kerrigan turned to speak in their direction.

“So, are you going to introduce me to your handsome friends?”

Son/Kyong

Son's eyes grow wide, as he looked back to Kyong. "Damn kid. If I had not seen you and that boxer flirting just now, I would tell you to stop being such a ladies killer." The Said, watching as Kyong pulled out a notepad and began writing.

"Hmm, yes. A ladies killer. But with a heart of gold." He said, as the Admiral nodded along.

"Yea, you get it."

"Yes, yes. But he can never find his true love. What is a man to do, when women only want him for his looks." Kyong said, still writing.

"I'm mean. You seemed to be hitting it off with the boxer." Son narrowed his eyes turned away as he realized that Kyong was not paying him any attention.

"I'll call it. The Devils Gift." Kyong said, looking up at the Admiral. "I think he was talking about you Admiral. Most of the women just call me easy on the eyes and touch my back side." He smiled at the dumbfounded look on the Admirals face.

"Hello Ms. Kerrigan. I am Kyong Ashynwar" He said, holding his hand out.

It took a few seconds for Son to recover from the strangeness that was Kyong. The boy just hit his brother, challenged him to a fight to the death, flirted with a boxer, and then just goes back to his normal note writing self.

"You amaze me boy." Son said, as he turned back to Kerrigan. "Admiral Son Ma'am."

[Connori Pilgrims]

VIVI

Vivi took a couple of seconds to let the event wash off her. 'The nerve of that boy.' She thought to herself as she finished off her glass of wine and waved for another. She had taken he seat once again, and was talking with one of her knights about what to do with him. "Just throw him in the cells for now and his father can crawl to me to ask for his release." she said, spotting the Connori Ambassdor. She quickly waved him up.

"Ambassador Gawain. She said. Directing him to sit, as he bowed towards her. She listened to his words, and took the golden rose, her eyes growing wide. "Such a lovely gift." She said, as she looked it over, her eyes taking in the shine of such a rare flower. She waved a knight over. "Please, find a case and put this in it. I'll have it placed in my chambers." She said, as she gently handed off the flower. "I'll have your head if any harm comes to it." She said to the knight, before returning her attention to the Ambassador.

"I would have loved to of have had him here, but matters at home can not be over looked." She sad. "But I'm sure my people, mainly the women, are happy that you showed up." She said, as she looked at a few noble women looking up at her platform. Gawain had been a big hit among her court, mainly among the noble women and most of the women in general, as they found him very breath taking. "I do hope they kept their hands to themselves out there." She said, shooing away a female noble that was getting to close.

"Anyways." Vivi started. Unhooking a dagger from her side, and handing it to the Ambassador. "Please give this to him as a sign of our on going relationship in the region."

Connori had been a major ally to the Empire, and were one of a few that pushed north with JVP forces after the Chinese red tide was pushed back to the 38th. It's because of their support that North Korea was retaken and her peoples home land was whole.

"Now, on to matters at hand. I'm sure you are not up here just to give me a lovely gift." she said. "What news do you bring me."

The Sun Palace, Seoul Joseon, the JVP Empire
The Masquerade Room
Night of the Gala

"Thank you, Your Highness, for your wonderful token." Ambassador Gawain said, receiving the ceremonial dagger from the High Queen, giving a curt bow as he did so. "Igetis Javier is an avid collector of blades across time and cultures. I am sure he will appreciate this, I give you thanks on his behalf, although no doubt he will wish to meet you and thank you in person."

After securing the dagger amongst his armour's robes, he then turned back to the High Queen, listening to her new query.

"Yes, I suppose we could discuss some business before we resume the merriment. Our two realms have long stood together as friends and partners since the First Great War. Igetis Javier has instructed me to inquire on the JVP's willingness to further deepen relations between our two countries in both economic and security senses.

The world since the end of the Oil Wars has only gotten more chaotic and uncertain, and he believes that if new crises would arise, the United Provinces will need ready partners to meet them. Sadly, Espana y Atlantis has collapsed, Curtopia has gone inward-looking, as has the Augustinian Confederacy. and the Republic of Carthage is not active enough in his view.

Igetis Javier is also very curious about our new friends from the Markion region, and what they could mean for Aels and the greater world."

[Emerstari]

KVP
Sun Palace in Seoul Joseon
Masquerade Room | Night | Thomes Adulf Lorenssen–Eirikr, Duke of Ekkesburg

In a few minutes, Thomes caught up with Haida at last. "Admiral," he said, "I'm not sure if it's proper to treat a lady of such status that way." The Duke grinned slightly at his joke. "Christiansen, I heard it was? One could suggest she's Emerstarian with a name like that, but I'd certainly disagree, with the way she talks to a Duke and even an Eirikrian, at that." He paused for a moment, so as to separate the unimportant from the important. "Now, I mean not to make you nervous, but I wouldn't be surprised if this Froken Christiansen is keeping an eye us or even taking pictures or something to that effect; she told me, she wonders how the GU deals with traitors, not that I'd call you a traitor. Indeed, you did not align yourself with the CGU. But regardless, I simply thought I had ought to warn you as I figure you are a lot more hesitant to be in this meeting than I am. Would you like you to lead off, then, Admiral?"

[The JVP]

The Sun Palace, Seoul Joseon, the JVP Empire
The Masquerade Room
Night of the Gala

"Thank you, Your Highness, for your wonderful token." Ambassador Gawain said, receiving the ceremonial dagger from the High Queen, giving a curt bow as he did so. "Igetis Javier is an avid collector of blades across time and cultures. I am sure he will appreciate this, I give you thanks on his behalf, although no doubt he will wish to meet you and thank you in person."

After securing the dagger amongst his armour's robes, he then turned back to the High Queen, listening to her new query.

"Yes, I suppose we could discuss some business before we resume the merriment. Our two realms have long stood together as friends and partners since the First Great War. Igetis Javier has instructed me to inquire on the JVP's willingness to further deepen relations between our two countries in both economic and security senses.

The world since the end of the Oil Wars has only gotten more chaotic and uncertain, and he believes that if new crises would arise, the United Provinces will need ready partners to meet them. Sadly, Espana y Atlantis has collapsed, Curtopia has gone inward-looking, as has the Augustinian Confederacy. and the Republic of Carthage is not active enough in his view.

Igetis Javier is also very curious about our new friends from the Markion region, and what they could mean for Aels and the greater world."

Vivi

Vivi motioned for the Ambassador to sit, as she thought on his question. It was true that many of the worlds super powers had either turned to their own affairs, left the world stage as a whole, or imploded over night as the case of Espana y Atlantis. The later leaving a large power vacuum in the south of Aels, and even a year later she was dealing with that fall out. No UPC was right. As it stand now, the two of them our the last of the Security council powers, with china looking to take more of their sphere. The Up start Rhamos was also a concern as they looked to gobble up form Spanish Aels.

"Ambassador, you may insure Igetis Javier, that the JVP will keep her promises to her oldest Allies, who without, we would still not be a whole Korea. Be it economic or defense, the JVP is always here at the side of the UPC." She knew such an undertaking by both nations would be an extreme task. Nova Prussia, an Aelian power block, had been showing cracks for a few years now, what with their undertaking in the Nutk confederation, and her own pact, the WADP, was just the JVP trying to keep her southern allies from going to war with Rhamos over land that they could not even govern over. No, their true focus was China, and they push in the the yellow sea.

After the last small exchange of rounds between her navy and theirs, she knew China would not sit back idle. "We really have a lot to cover, when it comes to our Region." She said, as she looked over the dance floor.

"As for our friends in Markion. I'm pressuring some business ventures there, along with looking for in region allies. It's funny how much they remind me of our region. They have their troubles, as do we." She let out a sign. "I have some knights on mission out there, looking for an ally to aid me in the Brown conflict, as it seems that their filth has spread that far." She cussed at how the Browns grow fat off the pockets of former Namijistan. "No. I think they could be good business allies, but we have to establish ourselves in the region. Many of them have issues that they wish for help with from out of region powers. Military in nature. I'll pass the details along to you and your nation. But there is a Green Union matter, and tonight I have already spoken with three sides of the matter. Bloody civil war, and a Green Republic looking for legitimacy. Which from us means military backing." She let out a sigh, wanting what her life would have been like if she took the Curtopia route and just looked in-wards. But she had allies that needed her support, and she could never take that away. Never.

[The JVP]

Stories from around the party

https://youtu.be/OABpGZX4BH4

The Event was now in full swing, as the announcement for 'MASKS OFF' was given over the speakers. Those still wearing their masks, quickly took them off. Not because they were tired of wearing them, but because now came the big reveal. Time to see who they had been chatting with for most of the even, time to see if this small spark, would ignite into a bigger flame.

For most, it was no surprise. A mask that just covered up some of the face, was not really hiding anything, and most knew who they were with for most of the party. But for those that wanted the thrill and excitement of making a connection to a complete stranger, would be overjoyed but their pick in partner.

The younger guests, finally free of their masks, took the chance to invite their partners to more private areas, to talk, or to join their group of friends for a night out in Seoul. This single event, of masks coming off, would lead to most of the guests making their way out of the party hall, and onto the streets of downtown Seoul, as they headed to clubs, bars, karaoke halls, and arcades.

Others, stayed, and explored the halls of the gathering room, some making their way to the pool, which was now looking to become a second party in and of itself. But a few, those couples already together, made their way to the royal garden, and walked around hand in hand, enjoy the cool night breeze and the smell of the flowers and trees. Many kisses were hand, and even a few promises to meet each others parents

Up in the bar, older guests, now tired of plotting and scheming, made their way up to get drinks and to chat as they looked over the city. Some spotting Admiral Son, gave him a quick bow and greeting, and then eyed three foreign women. Remarking to son in Korean, about their beauty, and how he was to old to be around women so young. Son would laugh them off, agree to a later lunch with them on the next day, and return to his guess, as a plate of grilled meat skewers were set out before them.

Son paid for the food, and motioned for Kyong and the three women to dig in.

Down on the dance floor the Ada and the GR Ambassador danced as they talked politics, and who she should arrange her flight to Markion.

Gemma and Ciril, had also taken the time to do some dancing, as the two had spent most of their time setting of media interviews and talks. His band would be the first out of region musical group to play with in the JVP, and she wanted to make sure that they were a big hit.

Temurazi and Jack, had finished their photo shoot, and shared a quick drink together as they talked. But as the night went on, the two boxers knew they had to head to their hotels and get some sleep. Their training would start early, as their fight was only a few weeks away. Temurazi sent a quick message to Kyong, asking to meet for breakfast in the morning, and them him and his manager headed out.

All around the event hall, people began to filter out to the other meeting area's as only those that wished to danced, stayed on the floor, enjoying the slowing down in the mood.

[Phoenxia]

Nik and Madi

"I wanna go out and see the town," dancing was starting to become kind of a drag, and Madi had never even been in aels, or out of Phoenixia before. "Let's go out and see the city, babe."

"I don't know, Madi," he checked his watch, it was nearing 22:00. "I guess we can go out for a little bit, but I wanna be in bed by one."

Madi pouted at him, she knew well why he wanted to be in bed by then. He had to go for his run and lifting in the morning, but he couldn't take a day off?

"Turn that frown upside down, Miss Hendriksen," he picked her up bridal style and took off out the door as she squealed with excitement and laughter.

[The Kingdom of Rhamos]

KVP
Sun Palace in Seoul Joseon
Masquerade Room | Night | Erik XII Georg

The King was not much one for handshakes, feeling the need to wash his hand afterwards, but he put up with such things at public events; he tried to covertly rub his hand off by placing it upon his scabbard. "I was invited, — with the Markion crowd, that is," Erik explained to the Rhamosian, whose name he was not privy to yet. "I suppose some call me Erik XII Georg of Emerstari and so on," he continued; those close to him called him Erik or Erik Jakob, but not only was this not quite the event for that name, he wasn't sure of this man's status. "You would be the third person, excluding the person I arrived with, — a cousin, — I have met tonight; the second person who I was not already acquainted with who I have encountered , so that leads to the question: what had I ought to call you, my friend? And whence do you come?"

Florence was taken aback by the revelation that he had managed to stumble across the Emersari King in the middle of the whole party, he of all people at that. Silently, he cursed himself in his mind for not taking the event seriously before hand and actually dressing up in a manor more befitting such an encounter. However, such an opportunity could not be wasted and he would have to tread carefully if he was to capitalize on it, after all such a connection would certainly give him a leg up on the other nobles and assuredly improve the status of his family's name.

Placing his right hand over his heart and offering a small bow as was custom in Rhamos when encountering one of higher stature then yourself, though it was almost exclusively among the nobles, Florence intended to make up for lost ground and attempt to curry favor with this man.

"Your Highness, forgive me this noise and lightening makes it rather hard to identify people. My name is Baron Florence Easen Velonea Marche, the Viceroy of the Federated Kingdom's Crown Colony of Edrina. I am providing escort for the Lady Caroline tonight and I am honored to be graced by your company."

[Phoenxia]

Greta and Etschelena

[Emerstari]

KVP
Sun Palace in Seoul Joseon
Masquerade Room | Night | Erik XII Georg

The King nodded his head in return to the bow he received, nodding being a general sign of regard in Emerstari. He began to answer, "It's quite alright, my Baron; it's good to be in your acquaintance as well, and I do believe you're the first Rhamosian I've ever had the pleasure to meet. You're providing escort for this Lady Caroline? Are you a grandfather, father, uncle, or elder brother or cousin? a guardian?" He ended his train of questions to allow Florence to respond, and he, having heard the announcement to remove masks did so, putting the mask in his pocket, replacing it with a traditional Emerstarian cap of sorts. Erik proceeded to move his hands to hold them behind his back.

[Connori Pilgrims]

Vivi

Vivi motioned for the Ambassador to sit, as she thought on his question. It was true that many of the worlds super powers had either turned to their own affairs, left the world stage as a whole, or imploded over night as the case of Espana y Atlantis. The later leaving a large power vacuum in the south of Aels, and even a year later she was dealing with that fall out. No UPC was right. As it stand now, the two of them our the last of the Security council powers, with china looking to take more of their sphere. The Up start Rhamos was also a concern as they looked to gobble up form Spanish Aels.

"Ambassador, you may insure Igetis Javier, that the JVP will keep her promises to her oldest Allies, who without, we would still not be a whole Korea. Be it economic or defense, the JVP is always here at the side of the UPC." She knew such an undertaking by both nations would be an extreme task. Nova Prussia, an Aelian power block, had been showing cracks for a few years now, what with their undertaking in the Nutk confederation, and her own pact, the WADP, was just the JVP trying to keep her southern allies from going to war with Rhamos over land that they could not even govern over. No, their true focus was China, and they push in the the yellow sea.

After the last small exchange of rounds between her navy and theirs, she knew China would not sit back idle. "We really have a lot to cover, when it comes to our Region." She said, as she looked over the dance floor.

"As for our friends in Markion. I'm pressuring some business ventures there, along with looking for in region allies. It's funny how much they remind me of our region. They have their troubles, as do we." She let out a sign. "I have some knights on mission out there, looking for an ally to aid me in the Brown conflict, as it seems that their filth has spread that far." She cussed at how the Browns grow fat off the pockets of former Namijistan. "No. I think they could be good business allies, but we have to establish ourselves in the region. Many of them have issues that they wish for help with from out of region powers. Military in nature. I'll pass the details along to you and your nation. But there is a Green Union matter, and tonight I have already spoken with three sides of the matter. Bloody civil war, and a Green Republic looking for legitimacy. Which from us means military backing." She let out a sigh, wanting what her life would have been like if she took the Curtopia route and just looked in-wards. But she had allies that needed her support, and she could never take that away. Never.

The Sun Palace, Seoul Joseon, the JVP Empire
The Masquerade Room
Night of the Gala

The developing state of affairs with the Green Union definitely deserved further scrutiny, especially as Markion offices and area studies within both the Foreign Office and other Departmentos of the Connori federal government would soon be opening up. This was something Ambassador Gawain could bring back. It was good and reassuring though to see that Vivi at least publicly was agreeable to stronger Connori-Jovepenian relations, although per standard protocols, the details of that would have to be ironed out in more formal settings such as follow-on roundtables and conferences, with other functionaries.

"Your Highness," Ambassador Gawain resumed, "my most profound thanks. This matter with the Green Union and their politics will indeed be of interest to Igetis Javier. Rest assured that should Your Highness and the JVP Empire decide to take a stance on the Green Union's issue, the United Provinces will most definitely understand and support your decision. Also be assured that the United Provinces looks forward to further ties and standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the JVP Empire.

I am sure you have other matters to attend to, and the party is still moving forward. Do enjoy your night, Your Highness, and thank you for your time."

With that the Ambassador took his leave with a curt bow.

[The JVP]

The Sun Palace, Seoul Joseon, the JVP Empire
The Masquerade Room
Night of the Gala

The developing state of affairs with the Green Union definitely deserved further scrutiny, especially as Markion offices and area studies within both the Foreign Office and other Departmentos of the Connori federal government would soon be opening up. This was something Ambassador Gawain could bring back. It was good and reassuring though to see that Vivi at least publicly was agreeable to stronger Connori-Jovepenian relations, although per standard protocols, the details of that would have to be ironed out in more formal settings such as follow-on roundtables and conferences, with other functionaries.

"Your Highness," Ambassador Gawain resumed, "my most profound thanks. This matter with the Green Union and their politics will indeed be of interest to Igetis Javier. Rest assured that should Your Highness and the JVP Empire decide to take a stance on the Green Union's issue, the United Provinces will most definitely understand and support your decision. Also be assured that the United Provinces looks forward to further ties and standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the JVP Empire.

I am sure you have other matters to attend to, and the party is still moving forward. Do enjoy your night, Your Highness, and thank you for your time."

With that the Ambassador took his leave with a curt bow.

Vivi smiled, as she listened to Ambassador Gawain speak. He was a very knowledgeable and humble person, and she felt he already had a solution for whatever problem was brought before him. She thought over the idea of offering him a Knighthood, an honor that he could take home with him when his time with the JVP was over.

"Ambassador Gawain, I do always enjoy our talks." She said, as he got up to make his leave. "Tell my Igetis Javier, that he will always have JVP support, even if it seems we are not." She returned his bow, and watched as few female on lookers mad space for the Ambassador to depart, before moving after him, hoping to steal a dance.

Now her Vivi sat, along for the first time at the party, and she finally took a chance to really look over everything going on around her. "You are the Queen, yet no one wishes to dance with you." She said, as she folded her hands into her lap and just enjoyed the party around her.

[The Kingdom of Rhamos]

Violette stood in silence for a moment as she thought on everything that Inna had just told her, it was a lot to take in all at once after all. A look of concentration was clearly visible on her face.

The pause was rather obvious and a bit on the awkward side most likely but that was not her intent. Finally she looked up at Inna and with a loud inhale finally spoke.

"Prince- I mean Inna, I... it's just that everything has happened so fast and you. I mean, you're a princess! And the queen is your sister and I mean...it just a lot all at once. Especially for someone like me, I don't get to go to parties like this a lot or meet people like you that much...or anyone for that matter."

She fidgeted nervously with her dress again as she spoke, a bad habit she would have to break some day.

"We can meet you sister first, can we please not do it in front of people though? My mother says I'm not supposed to draw attention to myself from the press." Even though she was trying to put on a brave face for Inna, a bit of pleading was evident in her voice.

[The JVP]

Violette stood in silence for a moment as she thought on everything that Inna had just told her, it was a lot to take in all at once after all. A look of concentration was clearly visible on her face.

The pause was rather obvious and a bit on the awkward side most likely but that was not her intent. Finally she looked up at Inna and with a loud inhale finally spoke.

"Prince- I mean Inna, I... it's just that everything has happened so fast and you. I mean, you're a princess! And the queen is your sister and I mean...it just a lot all at once. Especially for someone like me, I don't get to go to parties like this a lot or meet people like you that much...or anyone for that matter."

She fidgeted nervously with her dress again as she spoke, a bad habit she would have to break some day.

"We can meet you sister first, can we please not do it in front of people though? My mother says I'm not supposed to draw attention to myself from the press." Even though she was trying to put on a brave face for Inna, a bit of pleading was evident in her voice.

Inna smiled, and looked around the room. "Did they not search you for Cameras on your way in? There is to be no press and photos outside of the royal photographer." Inna walked over and grabbed one of Violette's hands. "Plus if anyone dared to take a picture of you with the Queen, she would have them... taken away seems like a nice term." She held on to her hand. More for support for her, but also for her own benefit. Violette, in these few moments, had become a true friend, and someone that, even with some minor poking, was able to look past what she was, and see her for who she was.

"Come. My sister is free." Inna said, watching the Conni Ambassador leave. "See him?" She said, pointing out the Ambassador. "That is Gawain, the Conni Ambassador. He is very popular around the palace, and women always seem to show up in their best when he comes to pay the Queen a visit." She laughed. "But I don't even think he pays them any mind. But he is a very nice man."

The two reached the base of the platform, and Inna waved the guards to the side. "I'll go talk with her first and then wave you up." Inna said, as she moved up the steps and walked to the queen.

"My Queen sister." Inna said, giving a small bow.

"My sister." Vivi replied, getting up and kiss Inna on both her cheeks. "I seen you run off. Is everything OK?" She said, motioning for Inna to have a seat.

"I'm fine dear sister, and I'll explain it later. But first." She looked down to Violette. "I have a... friend... Yes, a friend that I want you to meet." She motioned down to the girl, as Vivi finally looked to her small, and very scared looking guest.

"Friend?" Vivi repeated.

"Yes. She was someone that helped me, in a dark moment."

Vivi's eyes grow wide as she looked at the girl, and motioned for Violette to approach her, at the same time calling for another chair.

[The Green Union]

KVP
Sun Palace in Seoul Joseon
Masquerade Room | Night | Thomes Adulf Lorenssen–Eirikr, Duke of Ekkesburg

In a few minutes, Thomes caught up with Haida at last. "Admiral," he said, "I'm not sure if it's proper to treat a lady of such status that way." The Duke grinned slightly at his joke. "Christiansen, I heard it was? One could suggest she's Emerstarian with a name like that, but I'd certainly disagree, with the way she talks to a Duke and even an Eirikrian, at that." He paused for a moment, so as to separate the unimportant from the important. "Now, I mean not to make you nervous, but I wouldn't be surprised if this Froken Christiansen is keeping an eye us or even taking pictures or something to that effect; she told me, she wonders how the GU deals with traitors, not that I'd call you a traitor. Indeed, you did not align yourself with the CGU. But regardless, I simply thought I had ought to warn you as I figure you are a lot more hesitant to be in this meeting than I am. Would you like you to lead off, then, Admiral?"

Harry Haida, Sun Palace, Seoul Joseon, JVP:

The Green Loyalist turned to Thomes, a stony look on his face.

"Duke Lorenssen, if you cannot see that she called me a traitor in relation to my fraternizing with you, then you truly are either blind or treating this whole thing as a game. There is a reason I requested we speak away from the lights and eyes."

Haida took another step up the stairs, wincing again at the discomfort. He realized just how long he had been on his feet, and how it was taking its toll. If those plans for future weeks were to go ahead, he could not afford to worsen his injury.

"I'm going to get a drink. Come if you will, but recognize that I cannot help you if I am jailed for treason."

[Republic of Altos and Stratis]

Brooke, Sun Palace in Seoul Joseon, Bar

"Now I've gone and done it," Brooke let out a heavy sigh, as she had once again let her emotions get the better of her and most likely destroyed her one chance to talk to Haida. "How could I be so foolish?" she whispered. "I'm better than this. Come on, Brooke." She said, shaking her head as she thought of a way to salvage this train wreck.

"Hmmm. Maybe I need a little help." She said, eyeing the entrance to the bar. "Maybe a drink first." She thought, then sighed, knowing just one drink would not be enough.

She entered the bar and walked to the counter. Holding up two fingers, she ordered vodka rocks and smiled as the bartender walked over, laid a glass before her, and started to pour. Then gauged her reaction to know when to stop pouring to make sure that she had the perfect amount.
Brooke took her time while sipping on her drink, to scan the bar. It did not take too long for her to spot the two women, both in a uniform, that she knew.

"Nova." She said, putting down her drink. "She would know what to do." She grabbed her glass and started towards her sister, but stopped, went back to her spot, and grabbed the bottle. "I might need this." She said, making her way again over to her sister and her group.

"Damn, Sis. Aren't you the popular one?" She questioned.

Brooke & Nova Sun Palace in Seoul Joseon, Bar

Nova was surprised to see her sister before the end of the night. It seemed that Brooke's meeting with Haida had gone poorly and she looked disappointed,

"Join us, Brooke," Nova patted the empty stool next to her. Nova then switched to French and lowered her voice to a whisper.

"What happened?" She had already gleaned that Brooke's meeting had gone badly, but now she wanted details.

"I fucked up," Brooke responded while trying to maintain her composure.

"Take a breath, and start from the beginning."

"I met up with Haida on the stairs and said that I wanted to speak with him. But we got into it; instead, he called me a congressional sympathizer. And I um, basically called him a traitor in return."

Nova sighed in response, "You didn't call him a traitor, did you?" But knowing Brooke, she knew what the answer would be.
Brooke meekly responded with, "Yeah, I said it."

"Oh, I almost forgot Thomes was there, also waiting on Haida."

"Goddammit" came the reply, Nova wasn't mad at her sister per se, just a bit disappointed.

"Alright, I'll fix it; well, more precisely, Kerrigan will fix it."

"Pardon?" Kerrigan joined in the conversation upon hearing her name, despite only being able to understand every fifth word.

Switching back to English, Nova began to explain her plan "Seeing that they have probably noticed me, and Brooke has screwed up her chance. You are our last shot of getting a meeting with Haida."

Kerrigan & Nova, Sun Palace in Seoul Joseon, Bar

"Why is it always me who has to fix shit?" Kerrigan replied. Nova's suggestion did not amuse her.

"That would be because you are quite good at it." Nova retorted, flashing a smirk as she did so.

Kerrigan let out a sigh, "Fine, but you owe me double now."

"This should be easy; all you have to do is woo him with your charm," Nova said with a wink.

"Ooh, this will be fun," Kerrigan replied as a grin crossed her face.

[The Kingdom of Rhamos]

Violette was putting on the bravest face she could manage as Inna left her at the bottom of the steps. She had subconsciously begun fidgeting with her dress again but managed to catch herself this time and instead focused on just holding her hands still instead. Inversely though this only managed to feel more awkward as she wasn't sure what to do with them instead so as to look natural.

Standing here and now in front of Queen at the center of attention for the party was honestly the last place she had ever imagined she would end up being when the night had begun. And yet, her she was for a girl she had just met not to long ago, perhaps she had lost her mind.

When the Queen motioned for her to come up the steps though Violette's courage failed her finally as she felt her heart race in her chest. She didn't know why but for some reason she couldn't bring herself to raise her foot to take the first step up as if she was cemented in place.

Her mind races as she fought within herself to put herself into motion, but the voices of doubt and fear had her rooted in place no matter how much she fought.

A gentle hand reached through the mire of adolescent insignificance and self doubt and placed itself on her shoulder and brought her back to reality. A quick look up in confusion at the owner suddenly brought her back to the shores of safety and protection.

Her mother had seen her from across the room and had made her way over to see what Violette had been up to this whole time. Caroline looked down at Violette with an expression that let her know inside that everything would be alright.

"It is okay dear, I will be right beside you the whole time."

Violette nodded in return and with a deep inhale finally lifted her foot up and to the first of many steps up the stairs. Upon reaching the top Caroline gave a courteous bow while Violette curtsied. "Your Majesty, it is an honor for me and my daughter to meet you."

[The JVP]

Vivi

Vivi had waved the young up to speak with her, but now she watched as the girl seemed to have been frozen in spot. "Poor thing." She said to herself, as she got ready to raise from her seat and walk down to the girl herself. But as soon as she began to raise, a young walked up next to the girl, placed a hand on her shoulder, and the two walked up at the same time.

"Your Majesty, it is an honor for me and my daughter to meet you." The women said, her voice stern, yet gentle and motherly.

Vivi, now fully raising from her seat, returned the bow.

"It is an honor to greet the both of you." She said, as she motioned for a few more chairs to be brought out, before returning her attention to Violette.

"This lovely looking girl most be Violette." She began. "My sister Princess here has told me a lot about you." Vivi said, motioning towards Inna.

Inna, now moving to join Vivi by her side, held her hands behind her back. "This is Violette Elina Schimmoeller of Rhamos." She began.

Vivi quickly looked to the young girl, and then to her mother. "Oh dear. Then that must make you Duchess Caroline Melodia Neidastatt Schimmoeller." Vivi said, as her Valkyries brought up two more chair, and Vivi motioned them to sit.

Vivi had heard of the Duchess. Her name came up a lot in talks about which of the Rhamos houses would be most friendly towards relations with the Crown. But this was the first time Vivi had seen her in person, and the fact that the Rhamos Crown sent her, lead Vivi to believe that the Duchess was more favorable to the JVP crown.

This was a lot for Vivi to think on, but now was not the time for matters of the court or thinks like games of houses. No, right now a mother and your young daughter were here to talk with her, and Vivi wanted to know more about these two.

[The JVP]

Son and Kyong

Kyong had been talking with the Admiral about some of his notes, when a third woman appeared out of nowhere.

"Know there are three." He said, motioning towards the trio, when he saw a questioning look on Son's face. "Oh. A trio of Military sisters. Their mission..." He paused for a second and scanned the three again. "To find the man that killed their father, a corrupted General. Along with the aid of their fathers Admin, the four juggle a growing military coup headed by the general, and the growing love that threaten to tear the team apart."

He looked to Admiral Son, who was now looking over the newcomer.

"I'll call it. Cupid's broken arrow." He wrote these notes down in his book, as Son closed his eyes, finally picking up on what Kyong had just said.

"another award winner?" He said, before looking back at the group of women, who had now started to speak in what Son could pick up as French. "Hey." He said to Kyong. "French speakers?" He said, a little taken back by what he figured to be an Aels region only language.

"Ah yeah." Kyong said, writing in his book. "Seems very close to our Regions French, I can understand the majority of it." He pointed a pencil at the new girl. "She fucked up in some kind of mission, and..." Kyong stopped listening over all, as a new idea entered his mind, and he went back to his notes.

Son, now overly baffled by the young man, turned his attention back to the newcomer. She had what seemed to be brown hair, he could not really tell in the light of the room, but he knew she kept it well treated. He scanned the awards and markings on her uniform, and compared them to the other two. Judging from some anchors, he figured she was a Naval woman. This fact brought a smile to his face. Such a lovely woman, and part of her nation's Navy.

The trio switched to what he picked up to be English, and found it easier to follow what they were saying. "Haida" Son heard them say, and he racked his mind, before reaching into his coat pocket and pulling out a note card. The card had a few tasks for the night, and one of them was to meet up with this Harry Haida, if the time allowed. But he had seen him already talking with the Queen.

"Popular man." Son said, as he returned the card to his pocket, took a large swig of his drink, and looked around. The night was still kind of young, and he figured he should maybe hit the town, change clothes and go dancing or something. He looked back to Kyong, who was still writing something in his notebook, and then he looked over the trio, who now seemed to be lost in their own topic.

"Hmm." Son laughed, as he put some money on the bar, and motioned to the group of women. "Their drinks are on me tonight." He said, before finishing off his drink and making his way outside to get some fresh air.

[Emerstari]

KVP
Sun Palace in Seoul Joseon
Masquerade Room | Night | Thomes Adulf Lorenssen–Eirikr, Duke of Ekkesburg

The Duke lumbered quietly for a moment or two as the Admiral made his way up the stairs. He sighed heavily before following Haida at his offer. When they finally made it to an area whereat they could speak with some semblance of freedom, Thomes apologized to Haida. He didn't quite understand why the Admiral had taken offence to his words before, but he didn't want to make the man his enemy, so he spoke, "What I said before, Admiral, I hope you can forgive me for, sincerely. Indeed, it was hardly proper in such a situation, but I hope that we may continue forth nonetheless with our meeting?"

[The Green Union]

Harry Haida, Sun Palace, Seoul Joseon, JVP:

The Green Loyalist turned to Thomes, a stony look on his face.

"Duke Lorenssen, if you cannot see that she called me a traitor in relation to my fraternizing with you, then you truly are either blind or treating this whole thing as a game. There is a reason I requested we speak away from the lights and eyes."

Haida took another step up the stairs, wincing again at the discomfort. He realized just how long he had been on his feet, and how it was taking its toll. If those plans for future weeks were to go ahead, he could not afford to worsen his injury.

"I'm going to get a drink. Come if you will, but recognize that I cannot help you if I am jailed for treason."

Harry Haida, Sun Palace, Seoul Joseon, JVP:

What was he thinking? The former admiral was almost kicking himself as he trudged off, finally leaving the stairs and these foreigners behind. This was supposed to be a simple assignment, albeit a long distance one. All he had to do was come to this ball, offer his regards to Her Majesty, deliver the present, and trade pleasantries with the various nobodies until it was socially acceptable to leave. Nowhere in this scenario was it expected that he would discuss hard politics, get emotional in front of everyone and have to excuse himself, and proceed to bounce from one sketch foreigner to another, all of whom seem far more interested in his affairs than they ought to be.

As the crowd swallowed him once again, Haida paused. In truth, things were not yet out of hand. If he were in good health, he may be able to smooth over the night's rough patches and get on with things. But the shooting pain in his leg was starting to seriously sap his energy, and every little misfortune was starting to feel like a personal slight.

Flowing with the pairs of parched couples, the man on a mission made his way towards the natural epicentre of any event like this: The bar. Considering the age of this building, it came as somewhat of a surprise to find this area freshly renovated, with neon lighting and all the modernist curves one might expect in an Albatanian gay bar . . . not that a younger Haida would have been found frequenting such establishments. It was certainly a surprise to see such aesthetic in a place like this.

The older man leaned in past a group of teens, ordering himself a drink. Something light, he decided. This would be his third of the night, so best to make it something light. A fruity beverage, with a distinctly Korean side, would do nicely.

Mere moments and a coursery check that he was not being followed later, and Haida found himself sitting off on a quiet balcony with the entirety of Seoul arrayed before him. For the first time all night, he let the weight off his leg and began to truly relax. It was one of those sights which he would have loved to see in happier times.

Perhaps the navy man had expected to have some time to himself, maybe drink in the sights while waiting on his company. But it was becoming clear that Thomes was nothing if not punctual. In an instant, the royal was across from him, and it was all business.

KVP
Sun Palace in Seoul Joseon
Masquerade Room | Night | Thomes Adulf Lorenssen–Eirikr, Duke of Ekkesburg

When they finally made it to an area whereat they could speak with some semblance of freedom, Thomes apologized to Haida. He didn't quite understand why the Admiral had taken offence to his words before, but he didn't want to make the man his enemy, so he spoke, "What I said before, Admiral, I hope you can forgive me for, sincerely. Indeed, it was hardly proper in such a situation, but I hope that we may continue forth nonetheless with our meeting?"

Haida sipped from his glass once, glancing around a final time to make sure they were not being observed. Then he placed it down between them, eyeing up his counterpart. “I hope you understand just how precarious your situation is, Duke Lorenssen. You have laid claim to a country in which you possess no grasp of the language, no understanding of the society, and no organized supporters. In short, you have about as much legitimacy to the crown as I do.”

“The Parliament has already rejected your claim, which makes it borderline treasonous for me to be speaking with you. If I was not so utterly disgusted by what those republicans have done to our country . . .”

The two royalists sat for a moment, letting the words hang. They had a common goal. And here, amid the pomp and circumstance of one of Aels’ most successful empires, the ideals of their cause only seemed to be reinforced.

“So, make your case, Duke Lorenssen. What do you want from me?”

[Emerstari]

Haida sipped from his glass once, glancing around a final time to make sure they were not being observed. Then he placed it down between them, eyeing up his counterpart. “I hope you understand just how precarious your situation is, Duke Lorenssen. You have laid claim to a country in which you possess no grasp of the language, no understanding of the society, and no organized supporters. In short, you have about as much legitimacy to the crown as I do.”

“The Parliament has already rejected your claim, which makes it borderline treasonous for me to be speaking with you. If I was not so utterly disgusted by what those republicans have done to our country . . .”

The two royalists sat for a moment, letting the words hang. They had a common goal. And here, amid the pomp and circumstance of one of Aels’ most successful empires, the ideals of their cause only seemed to be reinforced.

“So, make your case, Duke Lorenssen. What do you want from me?”

KVP
Sun Palace in Seoul Joseon
Masquerade Room | Night | Thomes Adulf Lorenssen–Eirikr, Duke of Ekkesburg

"Admiral," Thomes said, thence taking a moment's pause. "What I would like from you is your support." He applied some more emphasis in the words would and is, as opposed to the words I and you. Thereafter, he continued his thoughts and said, "You are a person of considerable importance to your nation in these days, when the Crown doesn't rule nor even reign. But you are not simply that, you are also a man close to the Crown and a man versed in the military and politics. Even more, as you said, I have little grasp of the language and society of the Green Union, but you have a terribly good grasp, at least as I see it." Thomes had yet one more point to say before he turned the conversation back to Haida: "I don't look to openly wrong you, nor indeed your nation, and I certainly hope you don't think that is in my intention. I'm an ardent supporter of monarchy, and to my knowledge, you are as well, so that is my point, — I seek your support in restoring order, commerce, and good governance to the Green Union."

Thomes hoped that was sufficient enough to win the Admiral over, or even at the least, get him thinking about a Thomesian Green Union. The Duke was fully convinced of his own cause, and he didn't quite agree with Haida's statement that he had no organized groups supporting him, but there was no need to start qualms with Haida, — the man who, if he was to join the cause, would likely be one of Thomes's foremost advisers.

[The Green Union]

KVP
Sun Palace in Seoul Joseon
Masquerade Room | Night | Thomes Adulf Lorenssen–Eirikr, Duke of Ekkesburg

"Admiral," Thomes said, thence taking a moment's pause. "What I would like from you is your support." He applied some more emphasis in the words would and is, as opposed to the words I and you. Thereafter, he continued his thoughts and said, "You are a person of considerable importance to your nation in these days, when the Crown doesn't rule nor even reign. But you are not simply that, you are also a man close to the Crown and a man versed in the military and politics. Even more, as you said, I have little grasp of the language and society of the Green Union, but you have a terribly good grasp, at least as I see it." Thomes had yet one more point to say before he turned the conversation back to Haida: "I don't look to openly wrong you, nor indeed your nation, and I certainly hope you don't think that is in my intention. I'm an ardent supporter of monarchy, and to my knowledge, you are as well, so that is my point, — I seek your support in restoring order, commerce, and good governance to the Green Union."

Thomes hoped that was sufficient enough to win the Admiral over, or even at the least, get him thinking about a Thomesian Green Union. The Duke was fully convinced of his own cause, and he didn't quite agree with Haida's statement that he had no organized groups supporting him, but there was no need to start qualms with Haida, — the man who, if he was to join the cause, would likely be one of Thomes's foremost advisers.

The royalist was silent for a long time, staring down into his drink. The dimming lights of Seoul cast long shadows across his face, making him look at least a decade older than he was. Or perhaps it was simply reflecting how Haida ought to look after everything . . .

"I cannot promise you the throne," He said at last, "nor can I promise you the support of the Parliament, or even of safe passage to the Union's shores."

It was clear this man was wrestling with whether or not to say what was on his mind, but at length he looked Thomes in the eyes and got to it. "All I can provide is a chance to support the resistance, and be seen doing it. Positioning you as a leader in the anti-republican movement now could help your case to control the throne post-war."

His stare hardened. "At the end of the day, you need to convince Parliament that you are suitable. As much as I despise the idea of liberating our homeland and being forced to establish yet another republic, I will take that option over a foreign king who sees our Union only as an opportunity to enhance his own status. And I know most other exiles feel the same."

"We have been bleeding for our country and our crown. Are you willing to do the same?"