The Winter Ball (IC - FULL)

by **Astares Amauricanum** » Sun May 03, 2020 3:33 am

Regis Blachkor
"Thank you Milady, replies Regis before guiding his partner to the dance floor. Even though the Prince had not been involved in many occasions of state, he has always been a good dancer, and he would make everything possible so that his partner enjoys a good time.

Shiho Blachkor
"Good to know then, replies Shiho with a small smirk. I understand that the agency reports to you office, given that nowadays such sanctions are mostly economical in nature.
Now, I asked about possible fields of investment in your country, and I admit that the mining industry seems tempting. But if we consider the situation the other way around, do the Confederation seeks to invest abroad? Either the state or private companies?"

Adrean and Anna Blachkor
"Interesting, replies Adrean. In the Empire, and for many centuries now, most orphans were raised in state-run orphanages, usually run by the church or the army. Not to mandatory make them into future soldiers, mind you, he adds quickly to clarify, so that Gisella does not get the wrong idea, but because the military has always had a very important role in our society, especially in the beginning.
Also, when the first laws about homosexuality were passed, if a lesbian couple didn't get impregnated to continue the future generations, they were mandated to adopt an orphan and raise him/her. Same for gay couples.
Nowadays though, the orphanages, for the most part, are not run by the military anymore, but fall under the jurisdiction of each one of the states.
-And among the orphans, there is also the case of abandoned children to consider. Like the first state-orphanages, children were mostly abandoned at the door of military forts or churches, and this still happens nowadays. Although doing it simply like that is now a criminal offense in most states, and to do it legally, you have to pass by an hospital."

by **New Visayan Islands** » Sun May 03, 2020 6:41 am

Allison Sanchez
Royal Palace

"As for that," Allison replied, "you'll find no shortage of private companies interested in investing in Astares Amauricanum. As a matter of fact, I would suggest you speak with Isaac." Issac Ang was the Visayan Embassy's Commercial Attaché. "What industries do you have in mind? Perhaps some of the Confederation's business titans could find a decent spot."

by **Rivienland** » Sun May 03, 2020 12:18 pm

As Willy's eyes darted around the room to get a look at all the important people, he could not help but think how simple social occasions, such as a Ball, could be such an opportunity to expand with Foreign Affairs. In this one room alone, it seems, half of the Empire's top statesmen were in attendance.

"Very interesting. It seems we have quite a cast of characters with us today. Either way, I am glad to hear that we have all the Domains represented. Though," he motioned his glass in the direction of Putino, "you said she was the new Governor General of Mazomba. What happened to the last one? Or, did she inherit that position?"

by **Lux Pulchrae** » Mon May 04, 2020 2:05 am

"Ah that's who it was, Prince Okan. I definitely know I met him before, last time I was in Kyrenaia I think, which was..phew..quite a while ago. And no, I can't say I have had the pleasure of meeting Karim. Again, so many princes, so few memory space left in my head."

"Oh merci Prince Damir." she thanked with a little blush "Luckily it is coming up very soon, so I will be 'appy to wait."

"Whoa Damir, are you trying to steal my fiance?" Cleone jested "I'm kidding, but don't be a stranger to delivering the gift yourself. There'll be enough food, and cake and wine to feed the whole Sultana's clan." Discreetly, Cecile had slightly pulled on Cleone's hand, knowing more or less what it meant. "Prince Damir, a great joy it is to see you. Princess Yasmin, a pleasure as well, and congratulations to you both, sincerely. But, this young Cecile wants a dance and I cannot deny her any further."

"Prince, Princess, it was a 'onor to meet you long last. We would not want to take your time away any further."

by **New Edom** » Mon May 04, 2020 12:42 pm

Cassadia

''Oh, I am so sorry! I did not notice that I was boring you to sleep Queen Mara.'' Exclaimed Relena, trying to look a little taken aback.'' I often have to attend deliberations with ministers and generals for variety of matters and issues on which we talk and talk , and talk until we finally settle on that we have concluded to be the most correct course of action. Often these kind of things tend to last into the early hours of the morning of the next day even.''

''I apologize for me being so boring Queen Mara.'' Reiterated the Empress.

“Sorry,” said Mara with a hand over her mouth a moment. “I guess, you know, because you’re talking in all these references to conflicts that have nothing to do with my region or my country, and I have no idea who you’re talking about. You’re telling me about events, but not a lot about how you do things or your country, except to say you’re tough, you’ve been through a lot, and you really like guns a lot. I mean...how is that interesting? If you were talking about how you did them, what strategies and stuff you used...I found it more interesting hearing just a moment about your sisters, for instance. So you have all these meetings, how do you manage them?”

Prince Enoch smoothly interjected. “I think what Her Majesty is referring to is that there are different ways that the government guides policy in our country. For instance, often I or others provide briefings and memos in preparation for making executive decisions. Sometimes this has to involve the Council of Ministers presenting their views, or sometimes it is standing policy and Her Majesty is briefed on it. Other matters require review of laws or legislation.”

''You are so lucky Queen Mara.'' Lamented Relena.'' Meanwhile I have to deal with everything in-between; from foreign affairs to economics and internal politics to counter-terrorism and military affairs in general - all the while I have to manage public appearances and statements and all that jazz.'' Voiced frustratingly Empress Mara.'' Though I won't trade it still. This is something I have to do....not only is this God's Will...I also, gave a promise to my Father that I will keep the country sailing on the same course he had set all this years ago; to be a independent in everything especially militarily and economically as well as morally and spiritually.''

“Well, the Co-Ruler thing works out fine, but it was also part of the peace agreement to end our Third Civil War, you know, this marriage between Elijah and me. So it is not just a matter of convenience. In many respects, I represent a fractious but very devout part of our population, particularly the End Times Church people,” explained Mara. “Like most marriages, it is a meeting of minds and hearts.”

The Empress looked into Mara's eyes, as her own became more and more watery.'' I do not think I can bear to discuss this topic any longer Mara.''

“Let us not talk of this, then,” agreed Mara. “For I do not really like talk of war save when it is necessary. I agree that for princes it is a dire necessity, and one I do not neglect, yet I leave it to my commanders whenever possible. Let us instead turn to another subject: why have you not married yet? Couldn’t you use a consort?” she became a little impish. “In a variety of ways?”

Relena's cheeks filled with red again, desperately trying to hide them all the while letting out a choking sigh. '' Well it may be natural for you, but it is anything but normal for me, or my people or in the Krillin Region in general.'' Grumbled the Monarch, still very much flushing red, looking up again at the Queen of New Edom.'' I don't think I would be able to commit such an indecency to myself by going bum-naked in front of other people. It's so unbecoming, I mean what would my people think!" Exclaimed Relena in frustration at Mara's proposal, causing Relena to bear great ashamed at herself for harbouring such kind of thoughts involving this nudist exhibitionism - her face becoming redder and redder, before finally Relena managed to get ahold of herself and re-balence her breathing back to normal from all the hugging and puffing. The reddened cheeks that adored on her face mostly disappearing away.

“If you did, presumably others would be in a similar state, and it would be something you would become very used to in a short time,” said Mara kindly. “Really, it’s surprising, even talking about it is so shocking to you! My gosh, my father, when he was Heir and later King, would sometimes receive visitors to the more private parts of our estate, and I would be there swimming in the pool without a care in the world, and not a stitch on either. There is nothing so delicious as water on one’s bare skin.”

“I think that this subject is not to Her Majesty of Cassadia’s taste,” said Prince Enoch with a faitnt smile. He was amused, imagining the Cassadian Empress without her finery, all elbows and knees and tanlines.

''It is what they call in other countries ''Prime-Minister''. It is by law that puts the position of Prime-Secretary as head of the Cabinet, before my position as head-of-state and of government of course. It oversees the day-to-day functions, processes and operations between different Crown-Government agencies with the aim to smoothly coordinate all kinds of initiatives and projects to be overseen and pursued to completion..I hope I did not bore you with this, I am just trying to explain this to you to the best of my abilities.'' Exclaimed in frustration the Peacecraft as she turned her head to scan the crowd, catching a glimpse of Zelensky who was (thank God) still by the two hostesses.

''Now that we got everything out of the way, how about we go and have you introduced to Sir Zelensky then. I believe that he is still at the entrance with our two good hosts.'' Proposed Relena to the two Edomites, as she made a slight, polite gesture with her hand for all of them to set out

“Certainly,” said Mara, “Let’s meet the man…” she paused and picked up a pastry fromt ehe buffet, and, sampling it, she smiled, “Mm, how clever, it’s a little quiche! Such a nice thing, we don’t really eat things like this habitually in New Edom.”

“They’re available,” remarked Enoch.

“Oh yes, you can find them in some restaurants and hotels, but it’s not the sort of thing our people normally eat. They eat a lot of lentils, chickpeas, and vegetables, grilled chicken and lamb, that kind of thing…” Mara sipped some champagne as she walked toward the Prime Secretary. Mara had a nice walk, one which swayed her curvy hips naturally, and which was even more so in heels.

by **Polish Prussian Commonwealth** » Thu May 07, 2020 8:39 pm

Erika
I arched an eyebrow. Hard.
Really? Could one really understand another nation, without understanding the government, and vice versa? It was the lesson that cost the Americans victory time and time again-traditional liberal western democracy does not necessarily work in different socio-political contexts, so you are doomed on the PR front already. Granted, I personally knew little(Dancerian schools, much like their Prussian-Polish counterparts, had intense focuses on STEM courses, with some interest being given to global and local history, and with less emphasis on things like comparative governments, writing, etc), at the moment, but still...
"What else did they teach you?" I asked. "With regards to maths, history, writing, so forth?"

Berengar
I returned her smile with a completely serious face.
"You're the best girl I've danced with."
I waited a second, to let it sink in, and then broke out into a shit-eating grin.
"You're the only girl I've danced with." Then the grin faded. "Commonwealth doesn't have balls or formal dances that often..."

by **Krainin** » Tue May 12, 2020 5:50 pm

“Sounds like your jobs would be fun, as you meet a lot of people and, in Adalrich’s case, travel a lot. I don’t know what I’ll turn out to be as I’m still in school, I’m 15, and I’m not of blood relation to the throne, as I’m adopted.” A few moments pass allowing the two to respond to Annie.

Katie walks up. “Sorry for my disappearance for a bit. Decided to say over at the food bar to eat. Anyway, I hope Annie here kept you in good company.” She turns to Annie. “As for you, why don’t you walk around to meet a few more people while I speak with Wilrun and Adalrich.”

Annie bows and says goodbye as she leaves.

“Have you two been having a decent time speaking with my daughter?”

Annie walks around looking at other important people talking in groups. She’s to shy to join any of the groups, so she walks around awkwardly waiting for someone to come up to her. Someone does in the for of Carpathia from Kuronami.

Annie jumps at Carpthia’s greeting. She puts her hand to her chest and takes some deep breaths. “Oh, hi. You scared the crap out of me.” She takes one more deep breath and clears her throat. “Sorry about that. Hello, I’m Princess Annie of The Krainin Isles. And you are?” Annie asked as she bows.

by **Kyrenaia** » Thu May 14, 2020 1:48 am

Prince Damir ibn-Razia.
I smiled and bowed my head lightly.
"The pleasure was ours.", I said and Yasmin nodded, agreeing. "We'll try to deliver the present in person, but no guarantees. The world is a hectic place and we are right in the middle of it."
"And thank you for the congratulations.", Yasmin said and smiled, "To you two, too. I imagine, that it'll be a busy time ahead of us all, Cecile." I smiled widely - well, we were getting married, so yes, that came with the territory. "And give him the first dance of a lifetime!"
"In any case, we'll see each other. Hopefully, next time, under similarly pleasurable circumstances.", I said and with that, we went our separate ways.
A few beats of silence passed, before Yasmin said: "The two look cute together."
"Indeed they do.", I agreed - and, although one could say, that it was better for any man to simply agree with his future wife and be done with it, I meant it.

Polish Prussian Commonwealth wrote:Berengar
I returned her smile with a completely serious face.
"You're the best girl I've danced with."
I waited a second, to let it sink in, and then broke out into a shit-eating grin.
"You're the only girl I've danced with." Then the grin faded. "Commonwealth doesn't have balls or formal dances that often..."

Ida Findehoof.
I giggled at the joke, but that smile faded slightly, when he told me, that there weren't many formal dances in the Commonwealth.
I cupped his cheek softly with my hand and smiled.
"Then I'm glad, that I was your first.", I said and let a beat pass before blushing as the possible interpretations sunk in. "On the dancefloor, I mean." I blushed harder. "Not... ya know..."
I blushed even further.
By now, I must have looked like a strawberry.

Wilrun, Baronin von Port Monee.
"Then make the most out of your school time, Young Princess.", Adalrich said with a smile, "It doesn't come back. And a good education is something you can always rely on, no matter where you end up."
As Katie returned and sent Annie out of her own, we waved: "Bye, bye! See you around!", I said and wished her good luck, that she would find someone here, who was her age and who she could become friends with.
Back with Katie, I smiled at her question: "She is a nice kid.", I said, "So, yes, it was fun. She needs a bit of fine sanding, though."
"And experience.", Adalrich added, then raised a hand, "No master ever fell from the sky."
"Indeed.", I added, "You wouldn't have wanted to be at my first Soirees..."
Truth being told, Adalrich had been at them.

by **Kuronami** » Thu May 14, 2020 12:49 pm

Marcella

Marcella lit up like a light at that, how great it'd be to have her dear Aurelia at the most important festival in all the UIS. Of course it did mean some of her critics accused her of dumping so much money into a public festival as a convinenent excuse to see her girlfriend. How silly indeed. Admittedly though, Aurelia might be to thank, at least in part, for Marcella pushing the festival to become a more public affair for the world. "It's gonna be a great one! I just know it."

Amatarasu

"You two sound very close, like sisters. My mother speaks of a childhood friend she had in, that same way. Not siblings but might as well be. That's a special bond unto itself. Keep that."

Esperanta

She gave a polite bow as a dance partner "It was my pleasure, Milord. My compliments, you're a fine dancer."

Gisella

"Woah!" Gisella was actually impressed by the laws regarding same sex couples required to adopt. "I'd think you'd want to talk to Miss Pacifca about that, I'd think she'd want to remodel her recent laws about adoption more after you. She's very pro-adoption mind you, she worked to make it easier for single people to adopt. But anyway, ours I guess does push the kids along those lines but it's their choice at the end. But everyone in the UIS has to commit to a period of Military or Clergy service by the time they're an adult. Usually no more than a simple basic duty or something but some will end up picking it for their long term path."

"She is the newest one as the previous passed on last December. He was quite old, had been in charge of Mazomba since the days of annexation and since formal designation as Dominion. He was an upstanding gentlemen to the end. His daughter is Mazomba's current representative on the National Assembly which might have made her first in line but he willed it that she remain on the Assembly so instead the Dominion Assembly chose Lady Putino."

"Just about anything you'd find in your Liberal Arts education and then some. Obviously higher courses of economics, management, local geo-political histories and the socio-economics of the Kuronami as a whole."

"Ahaha, sorry sorry, didn't mean to startle you." Carpathia was usually pretty informal but maybe best put on a few airs given she spooked the poor girl and not cause issues for her sister. "Pleasure, Milady Princess. Princess Carpathia von Eylstadt of Kuronami. Again sorry to kind of ambush you, you just seemed like you were wandering. Figure maybe you'd rather has someone closer to your age to talk with instead of a lot of dull adults, hey?"

by **The Republic Of Cassadia** » Fri May 15, 2020 6:37 am

New Edom

“Sorry,” said Mara with a hand over her mouth a moment. “I guess, you know, because you’re talking in all these references to conflicts that have nothing to do with my region or my country, and I have no idea who you’re talking about. You’re telling me about events, but not a lot about how you do things or your country, except to say you’re tough, you’ve been through a lot, and you really like guns a lot. I mean...how is that interesting?”

''It is alright.'' Replied the Cassadian Empress in a gentle, almost fragile tone.'' It is just that this constant affair around this Jihadi Insurgency is just..such a heavy burden on my heart and mind, and..it is just something that is almost always at the back of my mind.'' Relena commented, not only addressing the concern of the Queen of New Edom, but also remarking upon a matter in question was revealed to be very personal to her.'' And as for me being a sucker for guns, I don't think you looked this from the right angle Your Majesty.'' Disagreed Relena with the claim Mara made.'' It is correct that I have an affinity to firearms, but this is not the sole reason for why I carry one...The reason why I do is, because of a feeling of powerlessness I got when I was on that yacht. When those assassins emerged from the icy waters of the ocean to board my yacht and then proceeding to kill most of my security team. This was the moment when I got this dreadful feeling which I have never really succeeded in brushing off my being; of not being able to do an iota to act in self-defense other than just hide like a coward.'' The Cassadian Empress, blank faced, laid down her case in a sonorous tone.

It was at this moment, when Relena turned her gaze away from the two Edomites and onto the scene happening around her, guests and dignitaries from lands far away and of prestigious backgrounds, chattering, laughing, drinking and dancing.'' Those forty minutes of my life, felt like half a day for me.'' Stated Relena, again with a sonorous tone, before shifting back her eyes on Mara and Enoch.'' Such an alas indeed, but then again. let us not discuss these topics of death and war any longer.'' Cried out quietly in an almost dramatic, pleading voice as the Cassadian Empress turned to other more appealing topics of discussion.

''I found it more interesting hearing just a moment about your sisters, for instance.''

''And a little brother, even though he is not little anymore...'' The Peacecraft corrected her, though it was not much of a correction as her very expression became brightly radiant, angelic at the mere mention of her siblings.'' I am the third of five children; with my two older sisters, Cornelia and Euphemia and my other two younger siblings, brother Rolo and sister Nunnally.'' The very act of mentioning her siblings to someone, alone made Relena's mood to become radiant, and her voice to soften into something sweetly melodic and almost motherly.

A smile appeared on Relena's face that stretched almost grin to grin.'' I am truly blessed to have been raised among them really. As it was quite the adventure every single day when I was little and my two older sisters had to take care of me; the amount of antics we and I did was - well...quite impressive.'' The Cassadian Empress shared shyly to the two.'' My father..he once said that the only thing I was not able to doing, when I was just a little child; was cause an earthquake.'' Said Relena, chuckling.'' You have no idea, I once set a sofa on fire when I was four, flooded a bathroom and also set ablaze the hair of one of my maids-in-waiting!''

Relena paused for a brief moment as she tried to hold back a rich laugh, putting the smooth-silk gloved hand over her mouth.'' Maybe that is the reason why at the I was so avoided at the Royal Court by most of the other court ladies and gentlemen as if I was walking manifestation of a trouble.'' The Empress recalled humorously while lightly giggling.'' I was the kind of girl that alot of people back then used to avoid like the plague, nevermind the shallow smiles and courtesy - maybe because they thought I was that crazy.'' Said Relena with a warm smile.'' Though that was just me being hyperactive, as any other child at that age. And as for what I said happened, what always preceded these antics, was my mother giving me a strong twist to the ear and a good spanking session.'' Laughed off slightly to what the Empress began to recall.

After this the Monarch of Cassadia turned again to the theme at hand.'' Since you mentioned my beloved siblings, I guess this moment is as good as any to say a few things about them..

''Cornelia is the oldest of my siblings and also one of the most fiery, with a temper equal to that of mom. I would even say that she became almost a carbon-copy of her'' Relena stated with a warm smile at the mere mention of anything about family.'' Which is ironic really, given that it was my big sister that used to fight with my mom pretty much over anything, especially over having to wear the often-bulky, court dresses or participating in the activities of the Royal Court or being present at this and function or event etc.'' Relena paused, and for a moment closed her eye in a blink, recalling the times watching the verbal spars between ''Corny'' and her mother, Marianne.'' Aaah, good times. my big sister, Cornelia was always like that, with Mom, my other sister and brother as well as those whom who get to know he can learn that she; can be quite pigheaded, pushy and domineering to sometimes unsavory degree if I were to be honest with you.'' Admitted the young Empress, whom was more than anything; practically describing the mentality of the average Cassadian.

''Which is why I think she would have better at fulfilling the duties as Empress, in all honesty...be it in the issue of economics, internal affairs of the state, foreign intrigues and geopolitics or military matters - one needs to impose oneself with force frequently on many matters, if one wants to have them swing in one's favor.'' Relena explained, her face relapsing into a blank, saddened expression.'' Something that comes naturally to my big sister, with her galaxy-size self-confidence while I on the other hand have to mobilize great willpower and override psychological barriers on taking decision with sometimes insurmountable moral weight to them, particularly the issues concerning state security - the type of decisions that would have made my past young self shiver.'' Lamented the Empress, eyes gazing down into the ground, and then back to Mara, not wanting to delve back into the topic of statecraft.

''Anyways, my beloved big sister Corny turned 28 this April, and thankfully has been good enough, to agree on a marriage to the esteemed Count Treize Khushrenada of Noor'alt - a good and proper man with a pleasant character, if a little sentimental, due to being a product of an Old Aristocrat upbringing, considering his young-ish age, Sir Treize is one of those rare fading gems.'' Lamented Relena to the Edomite Queen, all the while trying not to bore her to death.

''Euphemia is the second child of the bunch, before me - my second oldest sister. She is, as the common folk like to call ''nerdy'', but I would say that she is just a very bookish person, especially when it comes the arts in general and philosophy, of all things.'' Said the Cassadian Monarch, keeping up the slight smile for appearances despite the mental fatigue.'' Though one of her most commending and even, dare I say, beautiful qualities about Euphie is that she is an avid painter, and has created like...I don't know, but half of the time I was spending with her, she would be always doing a variety of creative pursuits, the chief of which was what I just said.'' Continued on Relena.'' When we were little the American ambassador at the time - a pleasant old man by the way - would mail to Euphie specifically, video cassettes, of this painter by the name of ''Bob Ross'', a very interesting personality indeed. This man would paint these great expanses and sceneries of forests, gorges, plains, rivers and so much more that I cannot even begin to describe, lest I talk about it for hours.'' Complained the exhausted young woman, letting out a brief sigh.

''Euphemia is quite the piece of work. She is polite, well-spoken individual and a prim-and-proper lady, as any woman of Royalty should be, but at times she can be quite unapproachable, and be a little too serious and well-read. Surprisingly, she has proven herself to be quite susceptible to being swayed naively into utopian convictions and values..like one time when our parents sent myself and Euphie on a plane to a country that was halfway across the world, to learn etiquette in the Royal Court of a nice old lady who was the Monarch over a once mighty nation called England. Now unfortunately a constitutional monarchy, or as my father liked to call them ''tourist attractions'' beholden to the power of mob-rule.'' Sonorously said Relena, her expression slightly implying that she was great dislike.'' To make this conveniently short, it took us a lot of effort to de-program the filth that was infused into my poor sister's mind. Buuut, things turned out okay in the end, a couple of years ago she married , with my permission, the 'Grand Župan of the Kavkaz Tribal Confederation of Kavkaz, Akhmat Kadyrov, Patriarch of the Noble Dzugashvili Clan'' Relena went on and on.'' A very important part of my Kingdom, which supplies majority of precious metals such as gold, aluminium, lithium, silver and uranium - crucial precious ores needed for the supply of many industries.''

''And about my precious little sister Nunnally and baby brother Rolo.'' Relena exclaimed, clasping her hands to join, overjoyed.'' They are the most precious little angels I have ever had in my life. When each of them was born a year apart, other than my mother, I was their most entrusted and doting caretaker.'' Relena uttered gently, as if going back to those times again.'' I grew up to be really close to them, something that always fills me with great joy, playing tag all day, stargazing....a time I am very fond of, as I still treasure all those memories with them closely to my heart.''

Nunnally is the most kindhearted, energetic, upbeat and cheerful little cherub one could be around and also a lover of animals and nature. She is also a piano prodigy and is currently studying at Ashford Academy, a private school which has quite the extremely unconventional educational system, in that it basically prioritizes the personal talents of each student to focus exclusively on them, rather than follow the Industrial-Age model of being taught collectively the same subject and curriculum.'' Explained the young Cassadian Monarch.

''I personally do not know much about it. But what I can attest to, is that Nunna has quite the impressive repertoire. I mean, she turned 17 this October, and she has already mastered some of the great works of Tchaikovsky like the ''Piano Concerto Number 1', or of Franz Lizt ''Hungarian Rhapsody Number 2'', some of Bethoven's sonatas and Mozart's works and is steadily working her way to learn to play Chopin and Rachmaninoff - she actually told me lately that she was hard at work, practicing playing ''Ballade No. 1 in G Minor'' and ''Piano Concerto number 2'' of Chopin and Rachmaninoff, respectively.'' Boasted proudly Relena of her sister's exploit just like a mother proud of her children's accomplishments.

''And as for Rolo, he is sharp-minded, sweet if a little shy young man. He has grown from being this sweet, almost chubby cute cherub into quite a slender, athletic, handsome young man, if I were to say so myself.'' Said Relena, in an almost gentle motherly voice that was, yet filled with sadness. Two years ago, I was required to do something that was necessary to reach an irreversible detente and an alliance with the Kingdom of Ejorike, the nation with which my Kingdom was at war with 20 years.'' Almost muttered Relena, this uncomfortable memory.''I had to unfortunately marry my once, baby brother, to King Maxim's daughter, Princess Klara in order to finalize the string of agreements and treaties that were needed to fully reconcile his and my country.''

Empress Relena Von Peacecraft sniffed, wiping off a tear that again streaked down from her deep and beautiful ocean-blue eyes.

''I'm sorry Queen Mara. It is just that the past is something that I prefer to look back to. Especially moments like these...It is just that, I have so many memories that bring me back to recall the carefree goofiness of childhood and most of my girlhood. Something I will never get back...truly, we are blessed and cursed at the same time, with the responsibilities of each other's Crowns.''

After this the young Monarch turned to address other matters.

“Well, the Co-Ruler thing works out fine, but it was also part of the peace agreement to end our Third Civil War, you know, this marriage between Elijah and me. So it is not just a matter of convenience. In many respects, I represent a fractious but very devout part of our population, particularly the End Times Church people,” explained Mara. “Like most marriages, it is a meeting of minds and hearts.”

''I am happy that it works you then!'' Happily remarked Relena to Mara's revelation.'' We Cassadians are very devout as well, though a lot of foreign outsiders, especially those from those mob-rule militant countries, including even many of their theologians and ''Holy Men of God'' utter this fecal bleater on how my nation's faithful subjects do not align with the Lord, as they are as Christian, as in the same manner as the Pharisees were; saying that we often violently cling to old prejudices and superstitions...I sometimes question if they are able to realize how blasphemous and well into the realm of apostasy, to slander and question the Faith of another, while their own professing of it is just for window-dressing and affirming sin...disgusting.''

“Let us not talk of this, then,” agreed Mara. “For I do not really like talk of war save when it is necessary. I agree that for princes it is a dire necessity, and one I do not neglect, yet I leave it to my commanders whenever possible. Let us instead turn to another subject: why have you not married yet? Couldn’t you use a consort?” she became a little impish. “In a variety of ways?”

''GHRGHKH.'' Relena choked at the audacity...and, boldness of the Edomite Queen.''My, my..I did not know you were such a sniffer for gossip Queen Mara, gosh, you and I have barely met and know each other, yet you have already mustered the courage to ask me when I am going to marry.'' Relena exclaimed in frustratio, and yet she smiled nonetheless.'' That is something my mother would have sooooooo, pestered me on about. But still Queen Mara, you should have not asked such a question.'' Scolded the Empress.'' But since you asked me like that, I do plan on doing just that in the near future...if possible of course. Personally I have several candidates that I would consider eligible for my hand.....''Relena paused, very much deliberately.'' But I will not tell you anything more than that, though when I do marry, I promise I will invite you and your family to my wedding.'' Declared with a degree of confidence that Relena usually had to muster with great effort in order to have.'' And as for you ''variety of ways'' remark, we do not do that in my family Queen Mara, some families of Blue Blood may practice, dare I say even my own past blood kin. But this is something my father moved my family away from when ascending the August Throne after the death of my grandfather, Christian (VIX) Von Peacecraft.'' The youthful Cassadian woman implicitly denied the Edomite Queen's guess, thinking that Mara was referring to the age-old practice of yore, of keeping mistresses and lovers by Kings, Queens and Noblemen of stripes throughout the ages.

''I like you Mara, I really do, but only with time, when I consider you as my friend. Will I be willing to talk more about my family.'' Stated clearly the youngish girly woman.

“If you did, presumably others would be in a similar state, and it would be something you would become very used to in a short time,” said Mara kindly. “Really, it’s surprising, even talking about it is so shocking to you! My gosh, my father, when he was Heir and later King, would sometimes receive visitors to the more private parts of our estate, and I would be there swimming in the pool without a care in the world, and not a stitch on either. There is nothing so delicious as water on one’s bare skin.”

'' I am sorry Queen Mara, but the only way I were to be compelled to uncloth myself, is if you force it on me, the same way you did it to the employees of Weber Group.'' Said the Empress rebukingly.'' Also, your, exhibitionism is...how was the expression..rubs me off the wrong way.''

“I think that this subject is not to Her Majesty of Cassadia’s taste,” said Prince Enoch with a faint smile. He was amused, imagining the Cassadian Empress without her finery, all elbows and knees and tanlines.

''Indeed Prince Enoch, it is not.'' The nubile Cassadian Empress corroborated the prince's assessment.'' The only one in front of whom I would be naked and happily so, is going to be for my future husband.'' Declared Relena without shame or hesitance.

“Certainly,” said Mara, “Let’s meet the man…” she paused and picked up a pastry fromt ehe buffet, and, sampling it, she smiled, “Mm, how clever, it’s a little quiche! Such a nice thing, we don’t really eat things like this habitually in New Edom.”

“They’re available,” remarked Enoch.

''Indeed let us set out before, Sir Zelensky goes off to wherever our two hostesses take him with all the rest.'' Acknowledged, the youthful Empress, while at the same time bottling worry that her Prime-Secretary was (probably) drinking. Something she would in a short will find out to be true. But in the meantime she accompanied her two now-found...friends, maybe -she did not know. As they walked across in-between the guests and dignitaries from lands near and far. All the while she walked with the grace and careful nimbleness of a great lioness, her heels clicking off of the ground, standing tall and with a straightened back while her full hips and rear swayed lightly.

''Oh Lord, Mara! Haven't you considered that you will get love handles and a stubborn case of fat on your tummy!'' Cried out in shock the girlish woman.'' if you eat these unhealthy sugary foods.'' Grasped in horror the thing, that the Queen had just eaten, hiding that she was jealous of how unconcerned Mara was, which infuriated her to no end.''If I were you, and my mom was here. She would have slapped that pastry out of my hand.''

“Oh yes, you can find them in some restaurants and hotels, but it’s not the sort of thing our people normally eat. They eat a lot of lentils, chickpeas, and vegetables, grilled chicken and lamb, that kind of thing…” Mara sipped some champagne as she walked toward the Prime Secretary. Mara had a nice walk, one which swayed her curvy hips naturally, and which was even more so in heels.

''Really?'' Asked Relena with a streak of curiosity she had not exhibited in a long time.'' We Cassadians on the other hand prefer to eat traditionally things like cucumbers, onions, peppers, tomatoes, wheat complimented with foodstuffs like meat or potatoes or both and of course let us not forget...''Relena paused for a second, too ashamed to mention it.

''Vodka..''

''Yes, it is true. We Cassadians are known for our love of drink, all throughout Krillin and trust me, when I say we love to drink, what I mean is we drink a lot, a whole lot, consistently and regularly...I mean, not even my father was safe from this most pervasive vice of our nation'' Relena said, not knowing whether she wanted to laugh out loud, or cry, so she let out a rich chuckle.'' I mean, we Cassadians will drink until we are crawling on the floor or blow up our liver...or both.''

And as the trio made their way towards the entrance, where the hostesses and Volodymyr Zelenski, were last known to be at, Empress Relena managed to gather the courage to ask a few personal questions on the Mara's side. It was only natural to ask back in the opinion of Relena.

''Can you tell me something about your husband, other than what you told me?....How is he like as a person? Does he like hunting or other such Aristocratic hobbies?''

''I have read stories about your sister. Is it true that you do not get along?'' Relena inquired to the Edomite Queen.'' I have seen some the materials from the time when...you were having your own, personal issues to deal with, for which she was appointed as regent..Is it true she tried to usurp you and put herself on the throne?''

''How is your mother like, has she ever taken active role in the upbringing of you and your sister as a child and into your teens? Asked on Relena with curios intent.'' My mother did, I was actually blessed to have me and my siblings, parents who tried to the best of their abilities to raise us as normal children like all the rest...what I have more than commonly seen in other foreign royal families and even noblemen, was that they would regularly raise their children from a distance, delegating the tasks and duties of child-rearing to nannies and servants, and therefore never experience true warmth and affection, like that from a mother and father.'' The Cassadian Empress elaborated, for why she raised such a deeply personal question.

''Have you and your sister ever picked an artistic pursuit while you were younger? In my case it was ballet and playing the harp, while my little brother chose to play the the guitar. My oldest sister on the other hand stopped on..''Relena was struggling to hold her laugh.'' My mother made Cornelia pick the cello.Personally I never imagined that, when I was little!'' Exclaimed Empress Relena.'' Though she did become very good at it, with lots of practice and the strict regimen of the instructor that my mom tapped for her. She finally managed to play pretty well some of Bach's classics.''

Zelenski POV

The Prime-Secretary, the man who held the second most powerful position in the Holy Kingdom - was a waste. And it was true, the affinity of the bottle which he developed when the Royal Guard, literally entered his apartment uninvited, bringing with them news that the girl whom she tutored the History of the Kingdom and the tribe who was to form it - ascended to the throne, and to unexpectedly picked him of out of all the others, at the time when Relena dismissed her previous No. 2 man, Alexander Lukashenko ''with distinction and honor'' citing his age (even though he was only about exiting his middle years) as well as his wish to get back into the normal life of a common Freeborn subject. Though he soon learned when he had assumed the office of Prime-Secretary, that the reason over his dismissal was over the acts of corruption that he had committed.

And while his Empress was away, doing...whatever she was doing. He ordered the valet, this ''Bianca'' woman, to pour him another several fills of wine. Dismissing any concerns they made with a stern almost growling rebuke at their petty worries. But still in a virulent, stable tone of speech, clearly showing he was still keeping himself stable and on his feet, despite his monumental drunkenness.

However, Volodymyr still had a little gut sense in him, to notice the presence of his Empress, fast approaching him with another two people besides her. Recognizing the the two as Queen Mara who was right next on Relena's right, and Prince Enoch. Thankfully, it was at a last moment that did not require for the party that was approaching from behind him, to stand next to him and to be tapped by one of them, so as to make their presence known to him.

As they got close enough enough, Volodymyr Zelenski gave the appropriate Cassadian greeting that was reserved for Royals and the Aristocracy; a solemn bowl with the eyes facing the ground and with a right hand on the chest, where the heart was, as he held a glass of wine in the other. Declaring gracefully through the weight of the alcohol.'' Your Majesty, Your Highness. I see that you have introduced yourselves to Her Imperial Majesty. It would be with great pleasure and honor to make your acquaintance, my name is Volodymyr Zelenski, Royal Prime-Secretary of Her Majesty, and the main caretaker of the Crown-Government in her stead.''

by **Polish Prussian Commonwealth** » Fri May 15, 2020 8:44 am

Berengar
I blinked. Hold up.
As the double-meaning sunk in, I began to blush, just as Ida was. "...ah. Uh...erm, yes."
I trailed off for a moment. "Glad you were my first dance as well." I added, before switching the subject entirely.
"So, erm, what have you been up to, recently, since you graduated from school?"

by **Astares Amauricanum** » Fri May 15, 2020 9:18 am

Regis Blachkor
"Thank you Milday, replies the Prince with a polite bow as well. Even though I don't do it very often, I try to stay in shape. But you were also a fine partner on this one. Do you have it naturally or did you got taught to be this skilled?"

Shiho Blachkor
"Well, let's see, replies Regis's wife. We have mining and timber industry that are going good, as well as shale gas drilling that is currently developing to new heights. There are also our industries and automobiles company. I have to tell you though, the business regulations can be considered quite hard sometimes by foreigners., such as hiring locals in priority, etc. As for more sensible sectors like arms manufacturing and energy, they are not open to foreign investment, and stay under the control of the Nobles and Imperial family."

Adrean and Anna Blachkor
"I see, replies the Emperor, don't hesitate to mention it to her. I understand that she wants even single people to get involved, given the fact she's got a little bugger of her own, adds Adrean with a chucke.
-As for the service, continues Anna, it's just like in the Empire where it's either Military or Civil Service for three years after high school before you go to university or get a job. As for becoming a military man after that, know that you always need to have completed the miltary service, the civilian ones do not get accepted in it, only on rare occasions.
Just to ask, do your people who choose the military path get paid while they're still in training? Because in the Empire we don't, in order to avoid people jus joining for the quick money for three months of training and then deserting."

by **New Visayan Islands** » Fri May 15, 2020 9:40 am

Allison Sanchez
Royal Palace

"No surprises there, huh?" Allison asked rhetorically. "At least we know what to tell Isaac," she added with a chuckle. As soon as the Embassy's Commercial Attaché had a perfectly good idea of the kind of foreign investors Astares Amauricanum wanted--and to some extent, he did, as his position was also his official cover as VIA Station Chief--he had a list of Visayan companies that would be greatly interested in investing. Simon Diggs, the mining company that took over the rehabilitated Marcopper mines, was among the companies that would stand to gain from investing in the country...and where that company went, others would soon follow.

by **New Edom** » Sat May 16, 2020 1:50 pm

''It is alright.'' Replied the Cassadian Empress in a gentle, almost fragile tone.'' It is just that this constant affair around this Jihadi Insurgency is just..such a heavy burden on my heart and mind, and..it is just something that is almost always at the back of my mind.'' Relena commented, not only addressing the concern of the Queen of New Edom, but also remarking upon a matter in question was revealed to be very personal to her.'' And as for me being a sucker for guns, I don't think you looked this from the right angle Your Majesty.'' Disagreed Relena with the claim Mara made.'' It is correct that I have an affinity to firearms, but this is not the sole reason for why I carry one...The reason why I do is, because of a feeling of powerlessness I got when I was on that yacht. When those assassins emerged from the icy waters of the ocean to board my yacht and then proceeding to kill most of my security team. This was the moment when I got this dreadful feeling which I have never really succeeded in brushing off my being; of not being able to do an iota to act in self-defense other than just hide like a coward.'' The Cassadian Empress, blank faced, laid down her case in a sonorous tone.

It was at this moment, when Relena turned her gaze away from the two Edomites and onto the scene happening around her, guests and dignitaries from lands far away and of prestigious backgrounds, chattering, laughing, drinking and dancing.'' Those forty minutes of my life, felt like half a day for me.'' Stated Relena, again with a sonorous tone, before shifting back her eyes on Mara and Enoch.'' Such an alas indeed, but then again. let us not discuss these topics of death and war any longer.'' Cried out quietly in an almost dramatic, pleading voice as the Cassadian Empress turned to other more appealing topics of discussion.

Mara gave her a long look during this part of the conversation.

A smile appeared on Relena's face that stretched almost grin to grin.'' I am truly blessed to have been raised among them really. As it was quite the adventure every single day when I was little and my two older sisters had to take care of me; the amount of antics we and I did was - well...quite impressive.'' The Cassadian Empress shared shyly to the two.'' My father..he once said that the only thing I was not able to doing, when I was just a little child; was cause an earthquake.'' Said Relena, chuckling.'' You have no idea, I once set a sofa on fire when I was four, flooded a bathroom and also set ablaze the hair of one of my maids-in-waiting!''

“Oh my gosh,” said Mara. “Did you do those things as a prank?”

Relena paused for a brief moment as she tried to hold back a rich laugh, putting the smooth-silk gloved hand over her mouth.'' Maybe that is the reason why at the I was so avoided at the Royal Court by most of the other court ladies and gentlemen as if I was walking manifestation of a trouble.'' The Empress recalled humorously while lightly giggling.'' I was the kind of girl that alot of people back then used to avoid like the plague, nevermind the shallow smiles and courtesy - maybe because they thought I was that crazy.'' Said Relena with a warm smile.'' Though that was just me being hyperactive, as any other child at that age. And as for what I said happened, what always preceded these antics, was my mother giving me a strong twist to the ear and a good spanking session.'' Laughed off slightly to what the Empress began to recall.

Mara shook her head. “Wow. What a wild child. But I don’t believe you. No one as pretty as you is avoided. They probably just worried a lot.”

After this the Monarch of Cassadia turned again to the theme at hand.'' Since you mentioned my beloved siblings, I guess this moment is as good as any to say a few things about them…

Mara made many noises of interest and encouragement. “Having such a big family sounds fun. I have cousins, but only one sister. They sound varied and fun. As for your oldest sister, I will tell you this: being an expert in things is good, but it is not necessarily leadership. Someone who is willing to shoulder responsibility is the key thing.”

They spoke of Mara’s marriage, and she took a deep breath as the Empress began to fuss about foreign countries. “Yeah, foreigners are different.”

''GHRGHKH.'' Relena choked at the audacity...and, boldness of the Edomite Queen.''My, my..I did not know you were such a sniffer for gossip Queen Mara, gosh, you and I have barely met and know each other, yet you have already mustered the courage to ask me when I am going to marry.'' Relena exclaimed in frustration, and yet she smiled nonetheless.'' That is something my mother would have sooooooo, pestered me on about. But still Queen Mara, you should have not asked such a question.'' Scolded the Empress.'' But since you asked me like that, I do plan on doing just that in the near future...if possible of course. Personally I have several candidates that I would consider eligible for my hand.....''Relena paused, very much deliberately.'' But I will not tell you anything more than that, though when I do marry, I promise I will invite you and your family to my wedding.'' Declared with a degree of confidence that Relena usually had to muster with great effort in order to have.'' And as for you ''variety of ways'' remark, we do not do that in my family Queen Mara, some families of Blue Blood may practice, dare I say even my own past blood kin. But this is something my father moved my family away from when ascending the August Throne after the death of my grandfather, Christian (VIX) Von Peacecraft.'' The youthful Cassadian woman implicitly denied the Edomite Queen's guess, thinking that Mara was referring to the age-old practice of yore, of keeping mistresses and lovers by Kings, Queens and Noblemen of stripes throughout the ages.

Mara raised an eyebrow. “First of all, having a consort would benefit you, as it would any monarch. Second, by ‘variety of ways’, or whatever it was I said, I meant in the way that a husband is to a wife. They complement each other, they share burdens and joys, all that. Why, what were you thinking?”

''I like you Mara, I really do, but only with time, when I consider you as my friend. Will I be willing to talk more about my family.'' Stated clearly the youngish girly woman. '' I am sorry Queen Mara, but the only way I were to be compelled to uncloth myself, is if you force it on me, the same way you did it to the employees of Weber Group.'' Said the Empress rebukingly.'' Also, your, exhibitionism is...how was the expression..rubs me off the wrong way.''

“Well, your Weber group had it coming,” said Mara. “They mouthed off to a magistrate and disobeyed the laws of my country, and ignored several warnings. I mean, my Foreign Ministry even tried to directly warn them, and they ignored it. Anyway, you don’t have to come to New Edom and see me naked if you don’t want to.”

As they moved off to meet the Prime Secretary, the Empress commented on her eating a mini quiche.

''Oh Lord, Mara! Haven't you considered that you will get love handles and a stubborn case of fat on your tummy!'' Cried out in shock the girlish woman.'' if you eat these unhealthy sugary foods.'' Grasped in horror the thing, that the Queen had just eaten, hiding that she was jealous of how unconcerned Mara was, which infuriated her to no end.''If I were you, and my mom was here. She would have slapped that pastry out of my hand.''

“What, eating a little pastry?” Mara laughed. “The occasional treat at a party does not harm, it’s if you treat every day as a party that it becomes a problem. Normally I live on salads from my garden, grilled chicken and fish, all that blah blah, more because I live abstemiously out of piety. Besides, don’t you exercise? Or is all that gunplay keeping you too busy?”

The Cassadian Empress then talked about her country and drinking.

''Yes, it is true. We Cassadians are known for our love of drink, all throughout Krillin and trust me, when I say we love to drink, what I mean is we drink a lot, a whole lot, consistently and regularly...I mean, not even my father was safe from this most pervasive vice of our nation'' Relena said, not knowing whether she wanted to laugh out loud, or cry, so she let out a rich chuckle.'' I mean, we Cassadians will drink until we are crawling on the floor or blow up our liver...or both.''

“Sounds like the people of Cassadia are like the people of Vionna-Frankenlisch. Love of drink.” Mara seemed more amused than critical. “I’m not much of a drinker myself.”

''Can you tell me something about your husband, other than what you told me?....How is he like as a person? Does he like hunting or other such Aristocratic hobbies?''

“My husband enjoys farming and hunting. He raises capybaras, and has encouraged that industry in the country, so that we are the number one exporter of their meat and hides in the Region. He’s rather fond of them. Then too, he also enjoys hunting. In New Edom, we have a curious ecosystem, where the primary predators are reptiles and birds. As a result, we had big flightless birds, and they’re among our most dangerous terrestrial predators. They’re mostly an endangered species.”

''I have read stories about your sister. Is it true that you do not get along?'' Relena inquired to the Edomite Queen.'' I have seen some the materials from the time when...you were having your own, personal issues to deal with, for which she was appointed as regent..Is it true she tried to usurp you and put herself on the throne?''

“Jocasta is pretty jealous, it’s a pretty open secret,” Mara sighed. “I guess she’s in some ways more inclined towards governing than me. But she didn’t try to usurp, she tried to declare me insane. Only it didn’t work.”

''How is your mother like, has she ever taken active role in the upbringing of you and your sister as a child and into your teens? Asked on Relena with curios intent.'' My mother did, I was actually blessed to have me and my siblings, parents who tried to the best of their abilities to raise us as normal children like all the rest...what I have more than commonly seen in other foreign royal families and even noblemen, was that they would regularly raise their children from a distance, delegating the tasks and duties of child-rearing to nannies and servants, and therefore never experience true warmth and affection, like that from a mother and father.'' The Cassadian Empress elaborated, for why she raised such a deeply personal question.

Mara replied, “The usual, like with you. A combination of my parents and staff. Mama--the Dowager--she likes Jocasta better than me. I was more of a Daddy’s girl.”

''Have you and your sister ever picked an artistic pursuit while you were younger? In my case it was ballet and playing the harp, while my little brother chose to play the the guitar. My oldest sister on the other hand stopped on..''Relena was struggling to hold her laugh.'' My mother made Cornelia pick the cello.Personally I never imagined that, when I was little!'' Exclaimed Empress Relena.'' Though she did become very good at it, with lots of practice and the strict regimen of the instructor that my mom tapped for her. She finally managed to play pretty well some of Bach's classics.''

“Oh I love music!” enthused Mara. “I love singing especially. I love organizing people into choirs and quartets and things like that. What I’m very fond of is surprises tha are creative and involve singing, and I love musicals and musical shows.”

As they got close enough enough, Volodymyr Zelenski gave the appropriate Cassadian greeting that was reserved for Royals and the Aristocracy; a solemn bowl with the eyes facing the ground and with a right hand on the chest, where the heart was, as he held a glass of wine in the other. Declaring gracefully through the weight of the alcohol.'' Your Majesty, Your Highness. I see that you have introduced yourselves to Her Imperial Majesty. It would be with great pleasure and honor to make your acquaintance, my name is Volodymyr Zelenski, Royal Prime-Secretary of Her Majesty, and the main caretaker of the Crown-Government in her stead.''

“Prime Secretary, it is a delight to meet you,” said Mara. “You seem to have been having a nice time. This is the Royal Master of Offices of my Imperial Court, Prince Enoch Tubal-Cain.”

by **Kyrenaia** » Sun May 17, 2020 1:07 pm

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
I knew, that Marcella had slight domestic problems, the Festival really took off after she dumped money into it and I started attending it regularly after I had become her girlfriend - so critics were quick in accusing her, that she used a public holiday and money from the state treasury to create a nice excuse to meet her girlfriend.
Fact was, however, that thanks to me and a few other people of note, the UIS was now a secret tip among Kyrenaian Tourists. One could not deny, that this was bringing in money, too. How much I did not know, but I knew, that Kyrenaian tourists did not lack money.
In any case, I smiled.
"I think so, too.", I said, "And maybe we find the time for a little get-away aboard the Harira? Not long, a night or perhaps, just the two of us..."
And Aldhiyb, but he was part of the calculation anway.

Khana Amina bint-Karim.
"Marla is my adopted daughter.", I said, with a small smile, "So, family indeed. I intend to keep that bond."
I let a beat pass.
"I did have a close friend like that as a student.", I added, "We drifted apart, though. She is now a mother herself, of three wonderful children, among them a daughter by the name of Amina."

Polish Prussian Commonwealth wrote:Berengar
I blinked. Hold up.
As the double-meaning sunk in, I began to blush, just as Ida was. "...ah. Uh...erm, yes."
I trailed off for a moment. "Glad you were my first dance as well." I added, before switching the subject entirely.
"So, erm, what have you been up to, recently, since you graduated from school?"

Ida Findehoof.
"I am currently in the process of graduating.", I corrected gently, "The defense of my Master Thesis is set for July, in roundabout a month." I smiled a bit nervously. "Political Philosophy as foundation for Political Doctrines is the title... I think, I told you about it. I hope, the professors like it."

by **Polish Prussian Commonwealth** » Sun May 17, 2020 7:54 pm

I nodded. Standard stuff, really...but...
"Where's Maths? Where's Chem? Where's Biology?" I asked. "And, for that matter, do you have Civil Defense courses?"

"You'll do fine." I replied with a smile. "You're a good writer, better than me, anyway..."
I rubbed the back of my head. " 'sides. You've got a head start on me, anyways. I still haven't gone to college yet. Might just take a few machining courses instead-me and a few of my friends had a pipe dream of starting a little gun shop in Warsaw. Fascinating things, firearms...not sure I can live off of 'em, though."
I shook my head, getting back to the topic at hand. "But in any case. You'll do fine."

by **Krainin** » Sun May 31, 2020 5:33 am

Katie gave a slight smile due to Adalrich and Wilruns' responses. "Yeah. She needs 'fine sanding' and experience. My wife and I adopted her on our second wedding anniversary, 16 August 2018. She has been to a couple local soirees and this is her first foreign one. Annie wants to do so much, but is confined because she is a Princess. I remember my first soiree. It was incredibly awkward. So, Wilrun, how was you're first soiree?"

"Pleasure to meet you, Princess Carpathia. Yes, I was wandering around. Just got done talking to a couple of nice people and my mother sent me out to greet others. Me being nervous is why I'm not talking to anyone. It is nice to speak to someone closer to my age rather than an adult, so thank you. How old are you, Carpathia? I just turned 16 not to long ago."

by **The Republic Of Cassadia** » Thu Jun 04, 2020 12:21 pm

“Oh my gosh,” said Mara. “Did you do those things as a prank?”

''You could say that, Queen Mara,'' Relena corrected the Edomite Mara, as she realigned her fascinator'' Let us just say I played with a lighter and a can of hair spray.'' The empress released a deep and radiant chuckle with an angelic smile.'' She was standing in front of me, bend over to get something from a drawer to the right of me, and while she did this, all the while I was goofing around with the items in question.'' The Cassadian Empress continued.'' She was so livid! After one of the guards rushed and got a fire extinguisher to put off the fire on her head; all she was saying how ''I would never, never, never be a servant of such a little Devil'', but at the end of the day, she became one of my best friends, her name is Duchess Dorothy de la Catalonia.'' The young woman revealed.'' Her family has quite the story - they fled to my country from a nation called Spain, due to her father being accused of having an alleged important role in a conspiracy about the overthrow of the authorities over there in a coup with help of the military.''

Mara shook her head. “Wow. What a wild child. But I don’t believe you. No one as pretty as you is avoided. They probably just worried a lot.”

''Perhaps you are right Queen Mara. Though I can't help it, correct you on this one account. Not only was I - as you said ''wild'' - I was also weird in the most literal sense of the word.'' Responded Relena negatively to Mara's assertion.'' I mean..when I was little, I liked playing with toy soldiers, besides building and painting over models of tanks, planes, helicopters that grew into more as obsession rather than a hobby... still this was all very ''unladylike'' of me if I were to quote Mama, but Dad was surprisingly pretty okay with my.. goofiness and weird behavior, so my Mom decided it was better to just let me develop my interests in that regard since she would have otherwise attempted to get me away from such ''unladylike'' pursuits. Had it not been for my dad.'' Relena remarked of the days of childhood and girlhood, now long passed.

"Besides, your assertion of me being pretty is false. I think that I never can compare to my older sisters." Relena added.

Mara made many noises of interest and encouragement. “Having such a big family sounds fun. I have cousins, but only one sister. They sound varied and fun.

The Empress smiled.''Indeed, you have no idea! I used to do such wild antics with my sisters when we were young - like that one time we did rollerblade through the hallways of our Palace. with Mama and a couple of the servants giving chase to us like maddened beasts. Though papa found it hilarious, though, that at the end of the day, did not stop mama from giving us a good ear-twist and spanking afterward.''

''I regret not having Nunnally accompany me to this Ball.'' The nubile Cassadian Monarch moaned frustratingly.'' She is so kind, gentle and emotional, and full of energy..in a way that I have noticed is very much like you Queen Mara. For that, I have no doubt you two would quickly make good friends with each other.''

Mara raised an eyebrow. “First of all, having a consort would benefit you, as it would any monarch. Second, by ‘variety of ways’, or whatever it was I said, I meant in the way that a husband is to a wife. They complement each other, they share burdens and joys, all that. Why, what were you thinking?”

The Cassadian Royal raised an eyebrow in response to Mara's rather startling statement.'' Come again? Ah, now I get to where you were going with this...Well, Queen Mara, to answer your question honestly, its that I, unfortunately, am still trying to find a solution to this ever-lingering predicament.'' Relena answered genuinely, a rare admittance and moment, she rarely exhibited this part of her to a few people who were not either from her Cabinet or family.

“Well, your Weber group had it coming,” said Mara. “They mouthed off to a magistrate and disobeyed the laws of my country, and ignored several warnings. I mean, my Foreign Ministry even tried to directly warn them, and they ignored it.''

''I admit it was an unfortunate accident, which stemmed more from a simultaneous combination of bad luck and poor understanding of the local national culture that created this perfect storm.'' Abruptly interjected Relena in the middle of Mara's talk as she crossed her arms defensively.''Not to mention the very clear agitated state of some of the bystanders, with a sizeable posse who foolishly thought themselves as a brave fighting bunch, by acting in a way and raising gestures and exhibiting projection that was nothing short of hostile against people who were not only armed but also had repeated experiences wherein such situations, it always preceded a riot, a firefight or served as a distraction for an ambush to be set in place.''

The constant reminder of this incident concerning every discussion about relations between these us has proven to be the major stumbling block for all future summits between our officials it seems. Relena thought to herself as she locked eyes into an icy stare, the Cassadian Royal looking straight into Mara's eyes defiantly.

'' Anyway, you don’t have to come to New Edom and see me naked if you don’t want to.”

The Queen's statement was a moment for Relena, almost threw the usually stoic Empress into an uptight spiral that almost threw the youthful woman into a loss of balance as her fair white cheeks into flushing like a tomato. ''Lord, oh Lord! Mara, you do not have to remind of this niche cultural custom of your land. How about we stay off this...curios practice, for the duration of this Ball?!'' Exclaimed Relena, in frustration the topic of nakedness was still somehow possible to be raised. All the while she lightly tried not to swoon over herself, letting off sporadic heavy breaths that bordered on grunting.

Is it just me, or was that remark sexually charged.

As they moved off to meet the Prime Secretary, the Empress commented on her eating a mini quiche.

“What, eating a little pastry?” Mara laughed. “The occasional treat at a party does not harm, it’s if you treat every day as a party that it becomes a problem. Normally I live on salads from my garden, grilled chicken and fish, all that blah blah, more because I live abstemiously out of piety.

''Excuse me if I appeared too pushy or annoying with me nagging you about your dietary choices.'' Relena began penitently.'' It's just that for me, it comes from personal experience. When I actively did ballet and with the progression of time, I had to take part in a lot of plays that required not only discipline and meticulous repetition..'' The Empress went on.'' But also required of me to go on very, strict diet regimens which forced me to deprive myself of many normal meals, foods, and dishes that had an excess amount of calories which, in the eyes of my instructor, would have been detrimental to my ability to do ballet...To my misfortune, this food dictatorship lasted for a while, courtesy of my mother agreeing to it all, as she tried mightily to regulate what I ate; had me on a controlled diet of nothing, but a few specific types of salads, soups, stews, vegetables, and water.''

Relena nevertheless smiled and let out a laugh, however awkward it seemed to an outside perspective.'' I remember having some pretty intense verbal back-and-forths with mom over me wanting a more lax diet. Aaand as always my mom always came up on top when it came to what I ate.'' Relena said.

''And besides, it was not always about ballet. Mama used to tell me if I were to get fat, I will never be able to find myself a suitor.'' The Cassadian Empress said, in a way that would have made other wonder why she would express the kind of almost abusive experience with such nostalgia.

''Besides, don’t you exercise? Or is all that gunplay keeping you too busy?''

Relena giggled.'' I don't do ''gunplay'' Queen Mara. Praise the Lord - I have never been forced to draw my gun at anyone, and I hope it stays that way forever. As for shooting firearms, the only place where I have shot a gun has been either at my Palace's indoor shooting range or a couple of remote spots on some of my family's countryside estates.'' The Empress remarked, giving a giggling note of advice, before moving on.'' A bit of advice; never shoot a Desert Eagle or a shotgun while wearing high-heels.''

Relena then addressed the ''workout'' portion of her question.

''I do plenty of exercises like jogging, push-ups, pull-ups, sit-ups - a little bit of all honestly as regularly as I can. Unless the affairs of governing get in the way.'' The Empress sighed.'' I also still do ballet a couple of times a month to not lose all the skills which I attained by putting myself through so much torture sometimes.'' Relena almost let this rant venting.'' Believe me, Mara, you have no idea what it's like when your instructor has to forcefully push your legs down down to the floor so that you make a full split. That was one of the things my ballet instructor did when I started learning this graceful art form, and she was very strict and meticulous in her approach to teaching me this art form. Not to mention she demanded complete obedience and discipline on my part.''

As the Empress of Cassadia, the Edomite Queen, and the Master Of Offices continued walking past and between the mass of international dignitaries, nobles, and government officials on their way to mee Prime-Secretary Zelensky; Relena replied some of the other statements Mara made.

“Sounds like the people of Cassadia are like the people of Vionna-Frankenlisch. Love of drink.” Mara seemed more amused than critical. “I’m not much of a drinker myself.”

The Empress did nothing but remained quiet as her heeled shoes clicked off the ground and the chatter of all the people around them did nothing, but almost drown what the Edomite Queen had just said.

''Yes...we...my, country - are a nation of alcoholics. And we Cassadians are reminded of our most pervasive sin every year; with a rich annual input of dash cams of brutal car accidents - thousands of people dying every year and an equal amount having to live out their lives as invalids." The Empress lamented with unspeakable sadness, her voice becoming more hoarsely with every word uttered.

"And the horrifying stories of battered wives and traumatized children who shall become nothing, but alcoholics like their parents before them and thus, continuing on this vicious cycle generation after generation....at least my mother was partially successful with my father from getting him off the bottle when she married him.''

“My husband enjoys farming and hunting. He raises capybaras and has encouraged that industry in the country so that we are the number one exporter of their meat and hides in the Region. He’s rather fond of them. Then too, he also enjoys hunting. In New Edom, we have a curious ecosystem, where the primary predators are reptiles and birds. As a result, we had big flightless birds, and they’re among our most dangerous terrestrial predators. They’re mostly an endangered species.”

''He sounds like fine man Queen Mara - have to say, I'm jealous!'' Relena remarked, sheepishly.'' My father, on the other hand, was never a farmer or a rancher in the way my mother as was she was from a lowly aristocratic family that bred horses and tended their vineyards and ran and winemaking business.'' A nostalgia began to fill her voice, becoming more gentle with every mention of her family.

"They preferred to spend as much time as possible, together with me and my siblings. To dot over us trying to raise us as best as they could, like a mother and father in a normal commoner family would do."

“Jocasta is pretty jealous, it’s a pretty open secret,” Mara sighed. “I guess she’s in some ways more inclined towards governing than me. But she didn’t try to usurp, she tried to declare me insane. Only it didn’t work.”

''I find it so sad and tragic when there are such hostilities and rivalries within a family, especially when it comes from one's immediate kin. In my own family, there was no room for belligerence or hostile rivalry between either my sisters or my baby brother. I hope you two one day reconcile.''

Mara replied, “The usual, like with you. A combination of my parents and staff. Mama--the Dowager--she likes Jocasta better than me. I was more of a Daddy’s girl.”

''My mother never emphasized preferential love for either me or anyone of my siblings. Rather she loved us equally, each of us in her unique way. She like my dad tried their hardest to be like a normal commoner family, to be active in their parenting over us, and to help us develop into adolescence and adulthood. So that we could grow up normally.'' Relena stated, in a sorrowful tone.

'' Unfortunately, as is common everywhere in countries with functioning Aristocracies, in many of these families, the parents usually stay distant from their children and delegate the task of raising them to either servants or L.P.Us. The type of people who are not capable of saying no to the children of their Masters, lest they lose their jobs or are punished severely. And thus as they become of age, often grow arrogant and full of themselves, and once they enter adulthood start thinking themselves to be untouchable.''

''My good childhood friend and lady-in-waiting, Dorothy - whom I mentioned earlier - was raised like that. Her parents were distant, only seeing them every so a couple of times a year...I cannot imagine what it is like to be raised like that, without a mother or a father, to scold, discipline her if she was to embark upon a wrong path like all the stuck-up rest. Though, at least the one saving grace was that she was sent to the Court to learn etiquette from Mama, whom humbled her, before having her do anything relating to the Social and table manners of Court and its many activities and functions.''

“Oh I love music!” enthused Mara. “I love singing especially. I love organizing people into choirs and quartets and things like that. What I’m very fond of is surprises that are creative and involve singing, and I love musicals and musical shows.”

''Me too!'' Exclaimed Relena happily and in-kind.'' However, you may not believe it, but I still love to do ballet more. Not only does it require a lot of repetition and finesse, but also discipline and control of both the mind and body.'' The Empress explained.'' When I actively did it, I would often be made to play a central role in plays such as being the Sugar Plum Fairy in Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker or Esmeralda in Yuka Fakulda.''

Relena reminiscent of these times, oh how she yearned to go back to them.'' It requires a lot of work, but I am sure not only you, but even your sister can do it - with time and consistent regular practice of course...You know if you want to, when there are no pressing matters, in both our countries - I think it is possible to steal some time, in between such peaceful intermissions, for me to teach you the basics of how to dance and move like a ballerina, maybe even bring along some of your ladies in waiting...What do you say?''

The Queen and Empress along with Enoch continued to converse as they finally stumbled upon the manlet of a person that was Voldymyr Zelensky. Who while behaving normally and thankfully still not having wine impact his speech or overall stability of his motor functions, bowed, while sharply, was nevertheless servile and graceful. Once the sight of the trio of Blue Blood came into his sight.

“Prime Secretary, it is a delight to meet you,” said Mara. “You seem to have been having a nice time. This is the Royal Master of Offices of my Imperial Court, Prince Enoch Tubal-Cain.”

''Your Majesty, Your Highness - you have immeasurably honored my person.'' Bowed Zelensky again.'' I am Prime-Secretary Volodymyr Zelensky's, Her Imperial Majesty's most trusted minister in the Royal Cabinet of Crown-Government.'' The senior man of government declared.'' And I am doing fine, thank you. I do hope you have found the company of Her Imperial Majesty very much appreciated.''

As Zelenski was uttering this protocol flattery, the Empress of Cassadia was mentally was raging like an inferno.

You Drunkard. One slip-up in front of them, and I'll have your skin flayed.

The Winter Ball (IC - FULL)

Who is online