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PostPosted: Tue May 12, 2020 11:14 pm
by Austrysia
As guests arrived to the gardens of Laeken Caste, many saw a sight of manicured beauty and heavenly serenity. A testament of the gardening arts of Beliany and their refined taste. Elizabeth, who was now simply referred to as the Dowager Archduchess of Austrysia, saw a waste of resources and time. Why spend so much time and effort on something, she thought, that would eventually fade from existence. What pride would a rose bush from some unknown land bring any of their lives? Elizabeth knew of several suppliers of plants and flowers back within Austrysia that were of better quality, and cheaper cost. So, Elizabeth rhetorically thought, what reason would any monarch invest in such a frivolous display of plants? Prestige and Acceptance. The Monarch of Beliany, King Leopold, for all his fanfare and pageantry was just another upstart family seeking to buy their prestige. For the King of Beliany has no idea of the scared role which they all play. Where the House of Coudenburg deals in garden parties and cheap trinkets, the House of Talmburg deals in nobility and duty.

As she walked along the stone pathway, near her grand niece, Elizabeth could feel the beating sun hit the back of her neck. Old age had not been kind to the widow, and her situation would not improved. Even with keeping a proper posture her entire life, her head hung like a vulture peering from a tree. Walking slower than a turtle, even while using a black, engraved cane from her dear brother, she still appeared far older than she was. Nearing age 80, she, in many ways, was in contrast to everything around her. As young ladies passed her by, dressed by the latest fashion houses, Elizabeth donned a black dress with patterned fabric that displayed dark-red chrysanthemums. Around her neck and hanging from her ears were an antique turquoise set of jewelry gifted by her grandmother. As it had been since 2089, the Dowager Archduchess wore black to honor her husband, the Prince of Birkenberg and Zult, who passed so suddenly due to cancer. While the oldest daughter of the current Emperor had faced many tragedies in her life, this by far sent her into a deep depression. How could someone enjoy these beautiful moments when death seemed to always hang around the corner?

And, since the Prince's passing, Elizabeth never thought she would leave her beloved country again. But, per the request of her nephew, she knew she had to escort her sweet grandniece, Princess Theresa. For though there was little reason for Elizabeth to still walk the Earth, passing on her life lessons to Theresa was her last mission.

As Theresa, Archduchess and Princess of Austrysia, sought to slower her pace to stay near her great aunt, the young girl was too excited to wait a moment longer. As the set of greenhouses rose from the distance, all she could think of was the adventure that was about to begin. With this begin her first trip abroad since turning twenty-one, a nervous excitement fell upon her. She new little of Belainy, but she closely followed the Royal Family's social media from home. Life in their Kingdom seemed so different in contrast to Austrysia, which still was a weird mix of traditional and modern practices. As she swayed side-to-side, with her simple yellow dress flowing along, she begun looking around as the two Austrysians entered the main greenhouse.

Their trip was not to be completely for fun, because, as everyone know, the King of Belainy was searching for an able wife for his second oldest son, Christopher. He seemed handsome enough, but the thought of marrying at twenty-one, when the world seemed wide-open and boundless, worried her. She knew father had meant well, but, just like her cousins, they were all destined to have their spouses picked by their senior family members. It didn't matter how many men back at home courted her, the Emperor would always have the final say. But, Theresa thought, maybe Christopher would be a charming man, and maybe this would become an important moment in her life. The most important moment.

While Theresa had often visited her great aunt, this trip was the first time they had spent this much time together in awhile. They had both changed, for better or for worse. Glancing around the room, Elizabeth commented, "Seems like quite the crowd. All sorts of people mingling and gawking at these fancy leaves. And are those journalists I see over there? To think they could just freely wander around! Heavens."

"Aunt Lizzy, not every Royal Court has the same rules as ours," her grand niece responded. And, in most cases, it was true that the nobility were treated differently in both countries. For, within the Imperial and Royal Court of Austrysia, the free press were still held to strict laws on when certain members of the aristocracy and Imperial Family could be interviewed or photographed. In fact, Belainy was far more public with their Royal Family than the Talmburgs ever considered. "I know how you are feeling about this trip, and again thank you for coming, but let us try to have fun. I am sure you might know someone here. And, if not, there are places to sit!"

Elizabeth bemoaned, "Perhaps. Well you are an adult so take a look around, but stay in eyesight. I still promised your father I would stay near." With that mutual understanding, the Dowager Duchess and Princess wandered separate ways, both seeing who they knew.

PostPosted: Wed May 13, 2020 5:10 pm
by Aravea
The princess nodded as she listened to Christopher, giving him a warm smile as he looked thoughtfully at her. While their time together had been short, she nonetheless felt as if she had developed quite an understanding of the man. He was somewhat unassuming on the surface, yet beneath that pleasant face lay a boundless ocean of creativity and sincerity. If she were being sentimental, she might very well call Christopher one of a kind. At the very least, he was someone who she wished to get to know better in more ways than one. Alana blushed as she listened to him call her brilliant yet again, her actions doing nothing to hide her continued elation at the praise, “I’ll admit….It is certainly something which I am still coming to terms with. Honestly, it is a position I did not expect to be in given my relatively low position in the Randgriz hierarchy, as well as how my brothers are more experienced than I am. As for competing against my brother it is rather odd, but such competition between members of the ruling house is actually fairly common during an Imperial election. I think….this is the third time in the past sixty years that such a situation has occurred."

Alana gave a light laugh at Christopher’s comment, seemingly enjoying seeing the prince continue to utilize his admittedly undersold skill with flattery. Truthfully, she had originally wanted to simply hone her engineering talents by working with either the Reinvelian tech giant Azura Industries or one of its leading engineering firms, Chione Engineering Group. However, her nomination to the throne had changed all that, with her now expected to place the future of her nation ahead of her own desires. With that being said, perhaps such a price would be worth paying if she had someone with whom she had a good deal in common by her side. Seemingly without thinking, the princess gave Christopher a light peck on the cheek, as if to reward him for his flattery. Despite his insistence to the contrary, the young Belian did have quite a way with words when he wanted to, “....My apologies, I allowed my judgement to lapse there. Anyways….I thank you for your kind words, Christopher. Speaking with you has….how to put this...It helps to put things into perspective. I..” Alana blushed, trying to think of how to properly phrase what it was she wanted to say. Needless to say, it was a task that was made all the harder by her impulsive decision earlier. She stumbled over her words for a few minutes before breathing in as she finally spoke, “What I mean to say is…Talking to you has made me all the more sure that I want to be Arkhoness. Besides….I at least have a friend in Beliany who can help take my mind off some of the pressures of the job, no? Oh and don’t you worry, you’ll get the full tour of Aravea once I become Arkhoness, perhaps I will even show you some of my more advanced projects."

PostPosted: Fri May 15, 2020 2:22 pm
by New Edom
Austrysia wrote:
Elizabeth bemoaned, "Perhaps. Well you are an adult so take a look around, but stay in eyesight. I still promised your father I would stay near." With that mutual understanding, the Dowager Duchess and Princess wandered separate ways, both seeing who they knew.


Princess Jocasta’s long raven hair fell to her waist, and was woven with gold wire that made it softly gleam. Her bare arms were wound with serpentine bracelets of gold, and the serpents had rubies for eyes. The gown was close pleated, and emerald green with black diamond patterns, and swayed softly around her slim and curvaceous body. Her slim feet were held in fine leather sandals that wove up her calves. Her eyebrows were penciled with kohl, her lips crimson. The Princess, at this time, was in her 21st year, and was the center of the Imperial Court.

She arrived accompanied by the diplomat, Dr. Paul Aphek, a diplomat and history professor, who was a tall, greying haired, grand looking man in a tuxedo, wearing civil service medals on his breast, and had a face faintly lined with age. His demeanor was friendly and professorial, and he had the sort of handsomeness that grew upon a man as he approached middle years, and gained gravitas and authority.

Her other companion was a slim officer, wearing a blue dress uniform, with short dark hair, an olive tan, and large dark eyes. His eyes often darted to the princess, as though he was overwhelmingly attentive to her. His name was Colonel Marcus Josephus, an Air Force officer, and he was her Aide-de-Camp.

The guests greeted the Chief of Protocol, and surveyed the gardens.

“May I get Your Imperial Highness some wine?” asked Colonel Marcus Josephus.

‘Dear Colonel Josephus, so thoughtful and kind,” said Jocasta, smiling but not looking at him. “These gardens are most symmetrical and pleasing to the eye."

She was not looking for fun, however, and her eyes alighted upon a woman older than she, and she approached her in a friendly and yet dignified manner. "Are you not the Dowager Archduchess of Austrysia? Allow me to present myself: I am Jocasta, Princess Imperial of the Holy Empire of New Edom, sister to the Queen-Empress. I am visiting to pay my respects and to widen our circle abroad, as I suspect you might be. I have heard of you by reputation, and am delighted to offer my acquaintance."

The two men accompanying her drew back just a little, surveying their surroundigns but also being attentive to her.

PostPosted: Sat May 16, 2020 2:25 pm
by Austrysia
New Edom wrote:She was not looking for fun, however, and her eyes alighted upon a woman older than she, and she approached her in a friendly and yet dignified manner. "Are you not the Dowager Archduchess of Austrysia? Allow me to present myself: I am Jocasta, Princess Imperial of the Holy Empire of New Edom, sister to the Queen-Empress. I am visiting to pay my respects and to widen our circle abroad, as I suspect you might be. I have heard of you by reputation, and am delighted to offer my acquaintance."

The two men accompanying her drew back just a little, surveying their surroundigns but also being attentive to her.


Strolling through the gardens, the Dowager Archduchess seemed to move at a pace that would even make a turtle seem fast. Glancing at others as she passed, she wondered how she seemed to know so few here. Just then, from the corner of her eye, she saw movement and several individuals approaching. Elizabeth, who always refused to wear neither contacts nor glasses out of pride and personal tastes, could barely make out their faces. Perhaps, she wondered, it was a group of Austrysian nobility traveling abroad during the summer season. But, as the women leading the pack got closer, she knew instantly this was someone new, and very beautiful. Her gleaming hair gave the Archduchess a moment of reflection, as she once too preferred to let her hair grow to that length. As her husband quickly learned, being on top of women's fashion and beauty within the Imperial and Royal Court was harder than it seems. Whoever she was, and Elizabeth was sure she would soon know, knew how to stay relevant.

Introducing herself as Jocasta, Princess Imperial of New Edom, the Dowager Archduchess was immediately struck by her manners and kind tone. Attempting to respond with proper respect and protocol, Elizabeth, even for her older age, slightly bent down to give the Princess a curtsy. Not bending too far down, for the aging royal, it was always more of a challenge to hide the pain she had when moving. For some reason, her bones seemed to ache her far more during this trip, though she was sure it was the climate and humidity.

Rising from her curtsy, she responded, "You are. Dowager Archduchess Elizabeth of Austrysia, and it is a pleasure to meet your acquaintance." Glancing at the young Princess for a moment longer, she continued, "What a lovely creature you are. And yes, you are correct, myself and my dear grandniece, Princess Theresa, are visiting. I have not taken a trip in sometime, and I always try to enjoy more time with my grandnieces and nephews."

"Now," she said as she shifted the conversation, "I must be honestly with you, I have not heard of the Holy Empire in sometime." In fact, Elizabeth reflected, she could not remember a time when her father, Rudolf II, even mentioned New Edom. Maybe it was one of her brothers or sisters that said something in the past. "How has the Imperial couple been? I do not even think I have had the pleasure of meeting Her Imperial Majesty, The Queen-Empress."

Seeing a bench out of the corner of her left eye, the Dowager Archduchess extended her arm and decided, "Lets move over and sit on the bench over there. I swear there is too much walking at garden parties that they might as well tie ropes around us and turn this into a pony show. At least once seated, we can talk more and, hopefully, both come away from this...flower party with something interesting."

PostPosted: Sat May 16, 2020 3:04 pm
by Beliany
Baudouin had entered the throne room of the palace, carrying his cousin’s gift in hand. As Laeken was not the official residence of the monarch, though it was the preferred residence, the throne room was not as grand as the one in the center of Bleugate, which was mostly ceremonial and left to be toured by the throngs of tourist. Baudouin searched for a palace to set down the Fabergé egg. He glanced around, his eyes breezing over the vast empty chamber. Aside from the purple and gold carpet that lead to a basis with a pair of purple and gold thrones, the larger being for the king, his father and the smaller for the consort, Maximilian, there wasn’t much in there.

After a few moments, Baudouin found an alcove on the opposite end of the chamber as the throne and decided on it there. Baudouin. Placed the precious gift down on its stand. He stepped back, not being able to help himself but admire it. He’d never admit it to anyone, certainly not Nukai, but it was a rather nice gift. Shame it was for his father. Though he supposed that one day such gifts would be for him. When he was king. That would be a great day. Not that he hoped for his father’s death. Baudouin was hardly patricidal. He just wished that his father would step aside and let him reign, it was hardly fair to be made to wait for so long. Baudouin was already in his mid twenties, he had no desire to be left languishing for the throne like the Deritain Crown Prince, waiting for decade after decade.

“That’s nice,” a voice said next to Baudouin. It sent the Duke of Brabant jumping a foot into the air as he let out a small shriek. Prince Philippe should next to his eldest brother, utterly unfazed by Baudouin’s brief lapse into terror. Baudouin grasped his chest.

“I need to put a bell around you,” Baudouin scowled. “You shouldn’t sneak up on people you know.”

Philippe seem to ignore his brother, staring at the Fabergé egg. Baudouin felt a small shiver go down his spine. Both his little brothers were weird. Christopher was at least a normal type of weird. Philippe was not. Christopher had an artist’s eye-literally just the single eye- and that lent him to people watch. Philippe however liked to watch people. It was a slight but important differentiation.

“Dad is going to have a heart attack,” Philippe said, his voice low in volume and deadpan in tone, “The Austrysians are here. They are known for being... judgmental.”

Baudouin humphed. He became all the more wary of returning to the guards. He already didn’t like parties. But his father had, for some reason lost on the Duke of Brabant, this desire to impressive other royal guests. Something to do with his obsession over the dynasty perhaps. “I hope Christopher picks the Atmoran one.”

“Only because you’re a Hollandophile,” Philippe said matter of factly. Baudouin had never hid his preference for East Beliany and their lingering affections for the Dutch and Atmorans. Of course, Baudouin’s own mother, the late Queen Cécile had bee Dutch, so it was perhaps from there that his love took root. And it was only reinforced by the fact that he had been madly in love with Princess Stephanie of the Netherlands for years. Baudouin only scowled once more at his brother. He gestured for them to leave. Philippe nodded and followed after his older brother. “I don’t think he will pick her,” Philippe said, more to himself rather than Baudouin. “He has fled to the greenhouses with the Princess of Aravea. You know our family has a history of romance and secluded gardens.”

Baudouin could almost hear a whisper of amusement in Philippe’s voice. Which never handed. Baudouin for himself felt the fantasy of his ancestors finding love in a garden utter manure. Propaganda spread by the fanatic followers of his aunt Charlotte, romanticizing her misadventures with men. Love was a sham. The world was only full of heartbreak and suffering of the many at the hands of the few. Baudouin and his brothers were forced to do as their father said, and that was the way it would always be. Someone on top commanding those below. Baudouin merely needed to wait till he was on top.

“I don’t think I very much mind who Christopher picks,” Philippe was saying, though now it was Baudouin’s turn to ignore him. “As long as she is a princess,” Philippe said in a dark and serious tone. “Then it won’t matter very much to me.”

Baudouin didn’t understand what his little brother was babbling on about. He was being weird again. “What are you going on—“ Baudouin looked over his shoulder as he re-entered the gardens, only to find that Philippe had disappeared. Baudouin recoiled from the sudden absence of his brother. Philippe was always disappearing on people, slinking off to god knows where. Baudouin shook his head, turning around to meet Archduchess Theresa of Austrysia. Baudouin did not even attempt a smile as he had with his cousin. “Oh, Hello.”




Meanwhile, Christopher was struggling to try and follow Alana’s words. It was as if his brain had short circuited from the touch of her lips against his skin. It made his cheeks flush with heat. It was hardly as if Christopher had never had someone kiss his cheek, such a concept would be a ridiculous one to consider given Christopher’s appearance and status. He was a prince, yes, expected to live to certain higher plane of standards, of existence even, but he was also a man, a young man, who had wealth and titles. That being said, most of those encounters had been brief and fleeting. With Alana it was different, as she shared his interest in technology, a small difference but one that meant much to Christopher, who had been starved with a lack of personal connection with someone who shared his own interests.

His brain was finally back up to normal running speed at the mention of advanced projects that Alana had, projects she wished to show him. The thought consumed him with a new excitement. What brilliance might Alana had further for him to be amazed by in such advance projects? He found himself inspired. He wanted to take apart his own drones and use them to create something new, something actually worth showing Alana. He smiled brightly, finding himself taking her hands into his as he leaned down and met her eyes. His icier blue eyes—one true and one false— looking into her cerulean ones. “I would love that. I shall be sure to take notes,” Christopher sais with a laugh, though he was quite serious. He had every intention of thoroughly documenting everything. “I am glad that I was able to be of some help. I hope the rest of your countrymen and -women see how brilliant you are, as I do.” Christopher felt a smile tug at his lips as he found himself taking a step closer to her. “Also, I hope that you have suffer from more lapses in judgement.”

PostPosted: Mon May 18, 2020 12:01 am
by Russlande
Nukai smiled at Maximilian, nodding in agreement, looking out over the crowd. He could understand Maximilian’s longing for such a era to be a snapshot of this carefree and simply world around them. For the last generation most of the world had known nothing but war. Even those nations that had not been ravaged by it, or had not been playing a part in it, had been caught in the midst of it. And now they all hung in a lovely balance of harmony. A truly beautiful and truly rare thing.

“Careful Uncle Leopold,” Nukai said playfully, “Or else I might steal away Maximilian here and bring him back to Moskva with me.” Nukai looked back to Maximilian. “You would certainly brighten the place up, the city is nothing but snow and cold, and doom and gloom, despite my best efforts I assure. We need a little of your Maximilian flowery flare to breath some life into us. I would love for you to write a piece or two to play at the opera, something not as showy and over the together.”

Nukai tilted his head up towards the sky thoughtfully. He wondered what went into making an era. Did they simply happened, a build of similar trends and sentiments over the years to force a space in time that took hold in the social consciousness, without anyone ever realizing it under it had already come to pass? Or could they be things of human, crafted and snapped by the influences and vision a of those powerful enough to create a time itself. Nukai closed his eyes. “Mmm. Yes. Something like this, some warm to cling to in our internal frozen hell.”

PostPosted: Mon May 18, 2020 12:49 am
by Royal Genes
The Dauphine sat down, as gracefully as a lily coming to rest on the surface of a pond. She looked out over the gardens, admiring the lake and even the grand water spout in memory of the woman who had ruined her father’s life and broken his heart. The Dauphine held no love for the late Charlotte of Geneva, the only thing good that had ever come from that woman were the Human Rights Accords, and the Dauphine little brother Nukai.

However such a sentiment, however true and however wide spread was hardly a way to make friends in Beliany. Leopold, the Dauphine suspected, had fallen into the trap of idolizing the dead. Familiar beating ground she suspected, give how his first wife had met her end. Pretty blondes would be the death of poor King Leopold if he wasn’t careful. But the Dauphine herself wasn’t concerned about Leopold, Nukai would handle his uncle. No, the Dauphine of Gênes came here for Sofia.

The Dauphine’s eyes darted towards Sofia with a friendly smile as she caught the Duchess of Brabant’s meaning. Yes. This sight. There was nothing like this in Gênes. Not to say that Gênes wasn’t beautiful. It certainly was. The most beautiful place in the galaxy if one felt bold, and the Dauphine certainly felt bold. Gênes was a city that had become a nation, and was thus a place entirely shaped by human hands. These gardens, for all their tending to and such from an army of servants, existed at the whims of Mother Nature.

The Gênoise had main structures that dwarfed nature and bent only to the will of the Gênoise.

“It is so lovely. It must be such a wonderful place to raise children, to be surrounded by such beauty, it is to grow up in a dream.” The Dauphine leaned closer to Sofia. “Tell me, how are your children, little Marie-Sofia and Leopold?”

PostPosted: Mon May 18, 2020 6:44 am
by New Edom
Rising from her curtsy, she responded, "You are. Dowager Archduchess Elizabeth of Austrysia, and it is a pleasure to meet your acquaintance." Glancing at the young Princess for a moment longer, she continued, "What a lovely creature you are. And yes, you are correct, myself and my dear grandniece, Princess Theresa, are visiting. I have not taken a trip in sometime, and I always try to enjoy more time with my grandnieces and nephews."

“How kind you are,” said Jocasta with a smile and a curtsy of her own, more in the Edomite fashion with her hands spread to her sides somewhat. “I do delight in the company of my own relatives, family is so important. I’m afraid I have not had Princess Theresa’s acquaintance. I hope you will be able to introduce us at some point.”

"Now," she said as she shifted the conversation, "I must be honestly with you, I have not heard of the Holy Empire in sometime." In fact, Elizabeth reflected, she could not remember a time when her father, Rudolf II, even mentioned New Edom. Maybe it was one of her brothers or sisters that said something in the past. "How has the Imperial couple been? I do not even think I have had the pleasure of meeting Her Imperial Majesty, The Queen-Empress."

“Our two nations have not had much more than the mildest diplomacy and third party commerce, as far as I know,” said Jocasta. “As for my sister, you would not soon forget meeting her. She is a very merry person, but at times melancholy, and is a person of very intense Christian faith. She is one of two Co-Monarchs, the other being Elijah IV, of the House of Shalmaneser.”

Seeing a bench out of the corner of her left eye, the Dowager Archduchess extended her arm and decided, "Lets move over and sit on the bench over there. I swear there is too much walking at garden parties that they might as well tie ropes around us and turn this into a pony show. At least once seated, we can talk more and, hopefully, both come away from this...flower party with something interesting."

“Certainly,” said Jocasta. She walked with the dowager towards a bench, and smoothed the dress beneath her.

The two men who accompanied her, meanwhile, stood a little apart, to let the two regal ladies, one very old, the other still in the flush of youth, talk discreetly. Colonel Josephus commented, “How perceptive is our Princess, to not dally with showing off and wicked dallying, and instead try to make useful contacts!”

“She was always precocious. What a pity,” said Dr. Aphek, “That she is not the elder sister.”

Colonel Josephus thought upon this, and then shook his head with a sigh. “Dreams….” he said. “Dreams.”

Meanwhile, Jocasta was saying, “I think that my country can learn much from a dynasty such as yours, that has had peace and prosperity for so long, consolidated under monarchical rule. Our stability is threatened by a pro-democracy movement right now, as though we did not have intrigues enough. Not that they want to overthrow the Monarchy altogether, but you spoke of ropes. Well, they want an elected Council of Ministers, these power mad rogues, to actually tell our rulers who should be able to hold ministerial positions and advise them on matters of state. I am curious: how has your government maintained itself so well, do you think?”

PostPosted: Mon May 18, 2020 5:41 pm
by Aravea
Alana blushed fiercely as she felt Christopher taking her hands into her own, all the while she struggled to retain what little composure she could muster. She could feel the heat swelling in her cheeks as they flushed a vivid red, causing her own mind to go haywire as her mind raced. Her brain moved at a hundred miles an hour as she flashed through all of the possibilities that lay before her, leaving her dumbfounded as Christopher took her hands within his own. As their eyes locked, Alana found herself mesmerized by the beauty of his icy orbs, their deep abiding blue glinting within the light of the green house. Yet as she looked deep into his cobalt eyes, she could have sworn she saw longing for further connection within them. Yes, it appeared as if his eyes belied what seemed to be a need in the man for a connection with one who shared similar interests to his own.

Admittedly, Alana could understand such a desire all too well. She too had spent much of her formative years lacking someone who understood or even cared for her hobby. Her own encounters with those of similar or near equal status over the past few years had been fairly fleeting, with most of them ending in disappointment as she found her would be partners to only care for either her title or wealth. Most of her would be romantic partners, barring one, had either dismissed or outright disparaged her hobby as being improper for one of her standing. The one individual who had taken a legitimate interest in her hobby had gone on to be a great friend of hers for a number of years, with them becoming so much more in the intervening years. Yet even that one source of warmth had been taken away from her within the past few months after some of the nobility had found out, with them threatening to have it leaked to the press.Needless to say, the incident had resulted in her mother “encouraging” her to find a partner befitting her station, with said “encouragement” having only grown more intense following her receipt of the invitation from Christopher’s father. Yet even as she had arrived in Beliany, her fears of being bound to someone with whom she shared little in common, it seemed as if her luck was at last beginning to change. She had at last found someone who she could at least make a lasting connection with, most likely as friends but she hoped that they would become more than that with time.

Fortunately, Alana managed to recompose herself just in time to hear the last bit of what Christopher had said. She breathed in as she took a step forward in kind, their bodies being mere inches apart as she gave Christopher a gentle smile. She trembled for a moment as she pondered what to do, before at last leaning in and giving the prince a tender kiss on the lips, the kiss lasting for several seconds before Alana broke it. She gave a light chuckle as she moved a few inches back, still continuing to eye the prince, “Hrm….I’m sure that I will suffer further lapses in judgement, especially if you keep this up” Alana gave the prince a wink, moving to Christopher’s side, all the while taking his right hand in his own as she looked up at him once more, “Perhaps I’ll get lucky and you’ll have your own lapse judgement, no? Nevertheless, I have shown you some of my work….You would not happen to be able to show me any of your’s would you? Even if not, I would love to hear more about you or some of your projects, Christopher.”

PostPosted: Mon May 18, 2020 11:40 pm
by Austrysia
As the young Archduchess Theresa wandered the room, she could not help but get butterflies in her stomach. It was not her first party, she thought, but it was her first engagement abroad. She was the great-granddaughter of the Emperor, and surely understood she would always be the subject of admiration and controversy, but she still did not understand why that was. Perhaps, with all these garden parties, they have nothing better to do. The thought almost made her laugh, but she did not want people nearby to see her as being silly. Still, it did not help her nervousness that, beginning so deep in thought, she did not even notice that the Crown Prince of Beliany, Baudouin, stood before her.

Standing silent for a moment, she took a moment to take a full look at him. Tall and blonde, he was surely a fine reflection of the high bar of Belian male beauty, even though he looked a few years too old. What really was off-putting, Theresa thought, was the lack of a smile on his face. While the Archduchess found most men agreeable in some way or another, a lack of a smile always was unappealing. Men when not smiling always seemed grouchy and displeased, and reminded her of a stone-faced ape. Though, from the rumors swirling around about the Crown Prince's marriage, maybe he had no reason to be happy. I think I prefer the image of him printed on the plates at the gift shop to...this. Unable to hold back, a humorous smirk appeared on her face.

Remembering who she was speaking to, she began, "Oh, Your Royal Highness, I did not see you there. Please," she curtsied before her, "let me introduce myself. I am Archduchess and Princess Theresa of Austrysia, Vegzyor, Franzia, Pomerania and Tereboulia. I was quite pleased to be invited to one of your legendary garden parties. The flowers are some of the most beautiful I have ever seen."



“How kind you are,” said Jocasta with a smile and a curtsy of her own, more in the Edomite fashion with her hands spread to her sides somewhat. “I do delight in the company of my own relatives, family is so important. I’m afraid I have not had Princess Theresa’s acquaintance. I hope you will be able to introduce us at some point.”

"Oh yes," the Archduchess waived her hand dismissively, "she is somewhere close, I am sure. There will be time later for that."

“Our two nations have not had much more than the mildest diplomacy and third party commerce, as far as I know,” said Jocasta. “As for my sister, you would not soon forget meeting her. She is a very merry person, but at times melancholy, and is a person of very intense Christian faith. She is one of two Co-Monarchs, the other being Elijah IV, of the House of Shalmaneser.”

She nodded as the Princess spoke. Elizabeth had only heard rumors of Emperor Elijah. As, even for nations who rarely interacted at a diplomatic or cultural level, the vast network of aristocratic ties still allowed for a princess of somewhere to know a count of someplace through their grandniece, or some-other. We were all apart of a greater family, but of course some were still more distinguished than others.

Meanwhile, Jocasta was saying, “I think that my country can learn much from a dynasty such as yours, that has had peace and prosperity for so long, consolidated under monarchical rule. Our stability is threatened by a pro-democracy movement right now, as though we did not have intrigues enough. Not that they want to overthrow the Monarchy altogether, but you spoke of ropes. Well, they want an elected Council of Ministers, these power mad rogues, to actually tell our rulers who should be able to hold ministerial positions and advise them on matters of state. I am curious: how has your government maintained itself so well, do you think?”

The Dowager Archduchess let out a sign and was silent for a moment. Readjusting herself upon the bench, she lamented, "It seems every generation, whether it be 1817 or 2017, has some youth who are filled with such silly thoughts. An elected Council of Ministers," Elizabeth sneered. "I would dare say rogues is too kind of a word to use. Ever since the revolutions of the 18th century, or even father back to the early tales of the Bible, there have been men and women prepared to oppose the natural order of creation. Unlike ourselves who were born and raised in singular, divine purpose, many now believe some vagabonds from the streets should be the given the right to decide the national agenda. The House of Talmburg, ever since the 19th century, has fought a war, not to suppress the ideas of the people, but to be the voice of divine reason that would see the most logical and peaceful outcome."

"As you asked, the House of Talmburg has been strategic in its aims of national unity and preservation. It rests upon two, solid pillars: dynastic unity and constitutional planning. My ancestors, early on when we were still counts in the marches of Austrysia, understood that the only way to preserve the collective gains of the community had to done through the surrender of personal ambition to duty. To this end, the Head of the Talmburg House, who has always been the Emperor for the last few centuries, commands absolute power and, as faithful servants to divine command, we follow his direction. How else could a family outlast the endless tide of revolutionary thought?"

"As to constitutional planning, two emperors, Ferdinand the Great and Rudolf the Reformer, understood, unlike the politicians that plague both our Empires, that a true ruler must create a legal foundation to last longer than imaginable, and be prepared to face the strain of a short-sighted populace. To this end, the House of Talmburg, while acknowledging the modern concept of the nation-state, maintains a continuous strain of Imperial precedence within the national identity. Simply, the Empire, and all its federal states, must see that full independence and separation from the monarchy is a worse outcome than unity under the Imperial banner."

Letting out a cough as her throat grew dry from one of her infamous lessons, she paused for a moment before finishing. "In the end, and in regards to New Edom, the monarch and constitutional system must work in simple harmony. Both must not only be perfectly defined for the challenges that lay ahead, but, and most importantly, must understand their roles without debate or indecision. Only then will the tidal waves of revolutionary thought dissipate before the citadel of natural order." The Dowager Archduchess, pleased with herself, leaned back upon the bench, prepared to observe the Princess's response.

PostPosted: Tue May 19, 2020 4:41 am
by New Edom
The Dowager Archduchess let out a sign and was silent for a moment. Readjusting herself upon the bench, she lamented, "It seems every generation, whether it be 1817 or 2017, has some youth who are filled with such silly thoughts. An elected Council of Ministers," Elizabeth sneered. "I would dare say rogues is too kind of a word to use. Ever since the revolutions of the 18th century, or even farther back to the early tales of the Bible, there have been men and women prepared to oppose the natural order of creation. Unlike ourselves who were born and raised in singular, divine purpose, many now believe some vagabonds from the streets should be the given the right to decide the national agenda. The House of Talmburg, ever since the 19th century, has fought a war, not to suppress the ideas of the people, but to be the voice of divine reason that would see the most logical and peaceful outcome."

Jocasta listened to her words attentively.

"As you asked, the House of Talmburg has been strategic in its aims of national unity and preservation. It rests upon two, solid pillars: dynastic unity and constitutional planning. My ancestors, early on when we were still counts in the marches of Austrysia, understood that the only way to preserve the collective gains of the community had to done through the surrender of personal ambition to duty. To this end, the Head of the Talmburg House, who has always been the Emperor for the last few centuries, commands absolute power and, as faithful servants to divine command, we follow his direction. How else could a family outlast the endless tide of revolutionary thought?"

“What you seem to be saying, Archduchess, is that there should be no infighting, no dynastic struggles. Do I have that right?” asked Jocasta.

"As to constitutional planning, two emperors, Ferdinand the Great and Rudolf the Reformer, understood, unlike the politicians that plague both our Empires, that a true ruler must create a legal foundation to last longer than imaginable, and be prepared to face the strain of a short-sighted populace. To this end, the House of Talmburg, while acknowledging the modern concept of the nation-state, maintains a continuous strain of Imperial precedence within the national identity. Simply, the Empire, and all its federal states, must see that full independence and separation from the monarchy is a worse outcome than unity under the Imperial banner."

Letting out a cough as her throat grew dry from one of her infamous lessons, she paused for a moment before finishing. "In the end, and in regards to New Edom, the monarch and constitutional system must work in simple harmony. Both must not only be perfectly defined for the challenges that lay ahead, but, and most importantly, must understand their roles without debate or indecision. Only then will the tidal waves of revolutionary thought dissipate before the citadel of natural order." The Dowager Archduchess, pleased with herself, leaned back upon the bench, prepared to observe the Princess's response.


Jocasta motioned for Colonel Josephus, who approached and inclined his head. “Wine for the Archduchess. Or would you prefer something else?” she inquired.

Colonel Josephus awaited her response, and then got the attention to an attendant and brought the drink (whatever it was) to her, bowing as he presented it.

Jocasta went on, “I see. It is more recent for us. Our Monarchy ruled absolutely until very recently, you see, and then there was a series of civil wars. Until we had a visionary President of the Council, General Pahath-Moab, who organized our constitution. This gave persons with property some say in government, able to elect a Chamber of Deputies which agrees upon laws and taxation, with all executive power in the hands of the Monarchs, while the judiciary is in the hands of the Church.

“Right now, our Chamber of Deputies is divided. The conservative Monarchists and so-called Free Congress support keeping constitutional government as it is, while the so-called Progressives want an elected Council of Ministers. I believe that our country is better off with an appointed one, by the objectivity and wisdom of the Monarchs. That way they do not serve partisan interests or factionalism, but rather serve the good of the nation. It seems to me that we must have a President of the Council who is very strong and yet diplomatic during these trying times.

“One of the other things we struggle with is what I fear too many dynasties do: decadence rather than duty. How has your dynasty resisted that impulse?”

PostPosted: Wed May 20, 2020 8:19 pm
by Austrysia
“What you seem to be saying, Archduchess, is that there should be no infighting, no dynastic struggles. Do I have that right?” asked Jocasta.

"Precisely, my dear. There are few times when seeing fighting members within a noble house ever yielded beneficial results for anyone involved. Now, family members disagreeing is something many cannot avoid, but let that be done behind close doors in secret. No need to make something like that a public spectacle.

Jocasta motioned for Colonel Josephus, who approached and inclined his head. “Wine for the Archduchess. Or would you prefer something else?” she inquired.

"Hm," the Archduchess rose her head to view the strapping officer before her. "Wine, yes. A Polongean Red if they have it, or Aellyrian cider. But, I will have none of that distasteful Saeul champagne," she said as she wrinkled her nose.

Jocasta went on, “I see. It is more recent for us. Our Monarchy ruled absolutely until very recently, you see, and then there was a series of civil wars. Until we had a visionary President of the Council, General Pahath-Moab, who organized our constitution. This gave persons with property some say in government, able to elect a Chamber of Deputies which agrees upon laws and taxation, with all executive power in the hands of the Monarchs, while the judiciary is in the hands of the Church.

“Right now, our Chamber of Deputies is divided. The conservative Monarchists and so-called Free Congress support keeping constitutional government as it is, while the so-called Progressives want an elected Council of Ministers. I believe that our country is better off with an appointed one, by the objectivity and wisdom of the Monarchs. That way they do not serve partisan interests or factionalism, but rather serve the good of the nation. It seems to me that we must have a President of the Council who is very strong and yet diplomatic during these trying times.


"Civil wars? What ever for? I will say, out of all of history, civil wars are always the nastiest. We have been on the brink of civil unrest several times over the last year within the Empire, but never to the breaking point, praise God. Though you are right to think that we, as the aristocracy, serve a higher purpose that goes beyond simple partisan or individual interests."

“One of the other things we struggle with is what I fear too many dynasties do: decadence rather than duty. How has your dynasty resisted that impulse?”

I can say in complete confidence that decadence has brought ruin to more dynasties than war, plague and insanity combined. Within my own House, I would credit the past generations in understanding the divine duty that has been imparted to us, by God, for our family, as I said, to direct the national agenda. Now, that being said, it comes at great personal cost to understand what measures must be taken so that the slow rot of decadence is not allowed to grow. As a mother," the Dowager Archduchess paused. Hesitation grew in her mind as she thought how to continue the conversation from this point as, unlike other family members, her personal sacrifice was greater than many. "As a mother," she started again in a more somber tone,"and as a parent, you must know the signs of when decadence takes hold over your children or siblings. I shall not say more, but, as a future mother, you too must, like myself, be ready to make decisions that go again our very natural urges. For, at the end of the day, even a mother must choose duty over their children's misguided desires. That is how the Talmburgs have remained, and shall continue to do so."

"Now," Elizabeth tapped her cane against the ground, "let us change the subject to you. Tell me more of your family, and how you spend your days. Have you found a fine man worthy of your beauty yet?"

PostPosted: Wed May 20, 2020 10:01 pm
by New Edom
“"Precisely, my dear. There are few times when seeing fighting members within a noble house ever yielded beneficial results for anyone involved. Now, family members disagreeing is something many cannot avoid, but let that be done behind closed doors in secret. No need to make something like that a public spectacle.

“This seems very wise to me,” said Jocasta. “You are right about disagreements! All families disagree, but people of rank and royalty must specially be careful about it!”

Jocasta motioned for Colonel Josephus, who approached and inclined his head. “Wine for the Archduchess. Or would you prefer something else?” she inquired.

"Hm," the Archduchess rose her head to view the strapping officer before her. "Wine, yes. A Polongean Red if they have it, or Aellyrian cider. But, I will have none of that distasteful Saeul champagne," she said as she wrinkled her nose.

“I shall inquire, Archduchess,” said Colonel Josephus with a bow, and pivoted neatly and went off in search of refreshment.

"Civil wars? What ever for? I will say, out of all of history, civil wars are always the nastiest. We have been on the brink of civil unrest several times over the last year within the Empire, but never to the breaking point, praise God. Though you are right to think that we, as the aristocracy, serve a higher purpose that goes beyond simple partisan or individual interests."

“Our civil wars were fought over governance, and how it should be,” explained Jocasta. “Between the Free Congress and the Monarchy. The Free Congress were generally led by rebellious aristocrats who wanted to have a greater role in governing the country. They had managed to establish rule over the country for a few years, with the Monarchy holding parts of the nation.” Jocata hesitated for a moment. “Forgive me, I do not feel happy with this subject. Though the civil wars are over, and the rule of my sister and cousin established, it was a dark and difficult time. My father was murdered, many people died. I would rather talk of other things on this happy day.”

I can say in complete confidence that decadence has brought ruin to more dynasties than war, plague and insanity combined. Within my own House, I would credit the past generations in understanding the divine duty that has been imparted to us, by God, for our family, as I said, to direct the national agenda. Now, that being said, it comes at great personal cost to understand what measures must be taken so that the slow rot of decadence is not allowed to grow. As a mother," the Dowager Archduchess paused. Hesitation grew in her mind as she thought how to continue the conversation from this point as, unlike other family members, her personal sacrifice was greater than many. "As a mother," she started again in a more somber tone,"and as a parent, you must know the signs of when decadence takes hold over your children or siblings. I shall not say more, but, as a future mother, you too must, like myself, be ready to make decisions that go against our very natural urges. For, at the end of the day, even a mother must choose duty over their children's misguided desires. That is how the Talmburgs have remained, and shall continue to do so."

“I think you are speaking of the need to encourage duty and abstaining from indulgence, yes?” said Jocasta. “I think this is a difficult one. I have observed different families, studied the history of my own, and I notice that there is a natural temptation to spare children one’s own challenges, though this is wrong.”

"Now," Elizabeth tapped her cane against the ground, "let us change the subject to you. Tell me more of your family, and how you spend your days. Have you found a fine man worthy of your beauty yet?"

“You flatter me,” said Jocasta with a smile. “I am married to Prince Michael of Dakmoor, who comes from the Empire of Ghant. He is very athletic and is the brother of the Empress-consort of Ghant. We have one child, James, who is now two. He is a very feisty little boy, very bold. My husband is often caught up in various manly pursuits, such as his club, polo and spending time with the Cavalry Guards officers. I insisted that we had to live in New Edom and remain part of the Imperial Court, because my sister’s children are still too young to take on any duties as the Monarchs’ heirs.

“I am currently serving as Regent of Gavinium Magnus, one of our Empire’s protectorates. They are a very foolish and barbaric people, but good hearted. Most of them follow a diabolic religion they call Luminarianism. As you can imagine, it is a kind of apprenticeship in ruling. I am very well advised by a council of diplomats, civil servants and military officers”

At that moment, Colonel Josephus returned with two glasses of Polongean Red wine, and bowed as he presented them, and then stepped away neatly to give the ladies their privacy.

“Dear Colonel Josephus,” said Jocasta. “A dear and devoted man, he is an Air Force officer, a very resourceful man from a good family. His father is a senior general, commanding our military intelligence corps. His mother is quite saintly.” she sipped her wine.

“As for me more personally, I am very fond of riding and tennis, and I enjoy music, though I am not so inclined to play instruments or sing. I have always preferred reading to music, really.” she smiled. “You, Archduchess, must have had to cultivate interests over the years to balance such a stern course of duty with your own self. May I ask what you most enjoy in life, if it is not too personal a question?”

PostPosted: Sat May 23, 2020 6:18 pm
by Beliany
Leopold half scoffed and half laughed. Several times he had been faced with other royal courts wanting to host Maximilian for his talents, he was the most fashionable composer for coronation pieces and his operas and musicals were great propaganda pieces, but Leopold had two advantages over them all. First and foremost was that Maximilian was his husband, so he could never stray too far away for too long, and second Leopold was willing to spare no expense on Maximilian’s projects. He would never let someone outbid him.

“You and the other half of the northern hemisphere can try as you might, but I am afraid you will all find yourselves out of luck my dear nephew.”

Leopold straightened his top hat. He saw no reason to further entertain his nephew’s silly notion of trying to steal away his darling Maximilian, and decided to move the conversation on to other matters, ones that interested Leopold in his role as Nukai’s uncle. And as the King of Beliany. Leopold, as the eldest of the monarchs amongst his siblings—oh sure his little brother Charles was an emperor but Leopold was older, wiser and reigned far longer; and he couldn’t see as anything more than a little kid—had taken it upon himself to be patriarch of the family.

“If you wish to brighten up Moskva, as much as one can brighten up that place,” Leopold said with a chuckle (he was always thankful that Beliany was a nice warm temperate to subtropical nation, with winters being short and that the only dreadfully cold regions being far to the south in the high mountains that straddled the border with Seidang) “you should be focusing on finding a proper bride. You may not be in line to inherit anything,” ignoring the fact that Leopold’s sister has given the Lion share of her wealth to him for some reason—impossible to know, “you are the Chancellor of Russlande and most importantly, my nephew.”

PostPosted: Sat May 23, 2020 7:25 pm
by Beliany
Sofia beamed at the Dauphine of Gênes. Sofia absolutely adored her son and daughter. And they were the only good things her husband had ever put out into the world. And it had been a dreadful task trying to get to that point. Her eldest, her pride and joy was her daughter Marie-Sofie, named after the Duchess of Brabant and her mother, the former Queen Mary of Scots. The birth of Marie-Sofie had secured Sofia’s own role in the Belian Royal Family, producing the next generation of heirs. Leopold was her second child, born out of a brief lapse into comfort between her and Baudouin, and the spare to Marie-Sofie’s heir.

After having Leopold, Baudouin and Sofia had more or less agreed to stay away from one another, living their own separate lives. Nonetheless the King continued to patiently await the arrival of a third grandchild, though with each passing day the likelihood of that grew ever and ever closer to zero. And with that, Sofia was fine. Her own mother had had three daughters and a son, and had barely had time to spend with them in between reigning over a country that was boiling over with turmoil. Two children was far more manageable. Her elder sister had two, as did her younger brother.

“Oh they are positively wonderful. I love children so much.” Sofia smiled. “Marie-Sofie is turning five this year and Little Leo is turning three this year. So tiny and yet they grow up so fast. Leo is in love with star ships and Marie-Sofie wants to bring every little creature she finds home to keep as a pet.” Sofia looked out over the garden with a smile, imagining her daughter running across the fine lawns chasing butterflies or something or another.

As she looked out over the lawn her view was interrupted by the arrival of a servant, having come after she rang the bell. The servant was dressed perfectly, a handsome young man in a black and white uniform, a flower pinned fo his chest as he carried a shining silver stray with two crystal glasses filled to the brim with a yellow and red concoction with sliced lemons and a leaf plucked sugar coated raspberry floating artfully in each glass. Sofia beamed, first at the snack-able servant and then more so at the drinks as he set them down. She turned back to the Dauphine.

“Your Royal Highness, you simply must try these raspberry lemonades, the kitchen staff make them like no one else. They are to die for, go on, try one.” Sofie-Marie picked up one of the glasses. “You have children, don’t you? How are they?”

PostPosted: Sun May 24, 2020 7:29 am
by Beliany
Christopher was left looking at Alana with a semblances of awe as his and her lips separated from the kiss. It had been wonderful. Christopher had suffered through several terrible kisses and he was pleased that this was not one of them. There was a sweetness to her, a gentle delight to her that was very comforting. He smiled as Alana came to his side, her hand slipping into his own, and couldn’t help but laugh a bit at her wink.

“I shall be sure to have total eclipses of judgement,” Christopher offered playfully. “Come, I’d love to show you some of the drones I’ve been working on. I do warn you none of them are as impressive as Malx. But that doesn’t men all my project are quite so lackluster,” Christopher said knowingly, thinking about some of his more creative works. “I really like testing high altitude limits, I recently go one to go as high as a thousand feet.”

“My brother suggested that I do so, though he says for reconnaissance and war spying, but I think it could serve to be far more benefit at home. Bleugate has been changing its layout and growing ever since I was a little kid, hell,” Christopher gestured time the greenhouse around them. “A lot of the things people see around here are new. My father built all of this for my mother, its only a few years old.” There was a slight somber edge to Christopher’s voice. Queen Cécile had died years ago, and Christopher had certainly moved on, much better than Baudouin, but it was a sobering thought.

One that Christopher then quickly pushed aside. “Most of the projects have been my father tearing down stuff and creating more parks and green spaces, but I was think that my high altitude drones could also help out in regards to who”—the proper phrasing woulD probably have been have been displaced, but the prince chose the kinder—“decided to move in find better areas in the area for development. If I could get the right measuring elevation scanners and program it to access civil Estates records, and overlay with those resulting map assessments, it can make the whole process of land surveying much easier, speeding up the whole process.”

Christopher lead Alana out of the massive greenhouse dome, and as they reentered the main party a significant portion of the crowd turned their attention to them. Several members of the extensive party guest list had conveniently found their way towards the great greenhouse for no particular reason. But now that they caught sight of Prince Christopher leaving with Princess Alana, walking awfully close and holding hands no less. In an instant a second wave of gossip swept across the party.

Mother Delporte glanced at her phone, one of the sneaky little devils of a guest and, presumably from what she saw, threw themselves behind a ornamental bush to take a picture of the pair as they walked back towards the main party and the palace. It was very quickly followed by a very clickbait-y article, which was very much working based on the views. Mother Delaporte chuckled and looked at Auria with a grin.

“I believe I may have underestimated your Princess, Ms.Snowtear. It seems that she has struck a critical hit.”

PostPosted: Sun May 24, 2020 11:35 am
by Austrysia
“Our civil wars were fought over governance, and how it should be,” explained Jocasta. “Between the Free Congress and the Monarchy. The Free Congress were generally led by rebellious aristocrats who wanted to have a greater role in governing the country. They had managed to establish rule over the country for a few years, with the Monarchy holding parts of the nation.” Jocata hesitated for a moment. “Forgive me, I do not feel happy with this subject. Though the civil wars are over, and the rule of my sister and cousin established, it was a dark and difficult time. My father was murdered, many people died. I would rather talk of other things on this happy day.”

"My apologies, dearie. Civil wars rarely spark fond memories for anyone. But yes, let us move on."

“I think you are speaking of the need to encourage duty and abstaining from indulgence, yes?” said Jocasta. “I think this is a difficult one. I have observed different families, studied the history of my own, and I notice that there is a natural temptation to spare children one’s own challenges, though this is wrong.”

"You are correct," the Archduchess responded. "Abstaining from indulgence is one of the greatest trials as a parent, especially being in our position. For, with monarchy, our children play, and will continue to as they age, a vital position within our ordained mission. The monarchy and the Monarch, while distinct in several ways, are in both body and spirit the same person, and, we as mothers, cannot undervalue our role. Whether we are raising the heir to an empire or the 47th in the line of succession, we much always prepare our children for the possibility of becoming the heir. And, of course, that does not even cover the subject of the affect a random member of an Imperial House can have in further degrading the entire family's reputation."

“You flatter me,” said Jocasta with a smile. “I am married to Prince Michael of Dakmoor, who comes from the Empire of Ghant. He is very athletic and is the brother of the Empress-consort of Ghant. We have one child, James, who is now two. He is a very feisty little boy, very bold. My husband is often caught up in various manly pursuits, such as his club, polo and spending time with the Cavalry Guards officers. I insisted that we had to live in New Edom and remain part of the Imperial Court, because my sister’s children are still too young to take on any duties as the Monarchs’ heirs.

Elizabeth let out a chuckle. "Well, well. I must say then Prince Michael is quite a lucky man. My late husband, Prince Aleksandar of Birkenberg, was also a fan of riding and playing polo, but that was years ago." Distracted by the thought of her husband for a moment, she continued, "And congratulations with your firstborn. If I may inquire, are you hoping to have more kids? They grow so fast, but the more the merrier I always say!"

“I am currently serving as Regent of Gavinium Magnus, one of our Empire’s protectorates. They are a very foolish and barbaric people, but good hearted. Most of them follow a diabolic religion they call Luminarianism. As you can imagine, it is a kind of apprenticeship in ruling. I am very well advised by a council of diplomats, civil servants and military officers”

"Oh, how very interesting. While the House of Talmburg holds several notable positions within the Austrysian government, we have not held that level of direct control in a century or two. Though, I am sure it provides a good opportunity to learn more about governance and leadership."

At that moment, Colonel Josephus returned with two glasses of Polongean Red wine, and bowed as he presented them, and then stepped away neatly to give the ladies their privacy.

“Dear Colonel Josephus,” said Jocasta. “A dear and devoted man, he is an Air Force officer, a very resourceful man from a good family. His father is a senior general, commanding our military intelligence corps. His mother is quite saintly.” she sipped her wine.


Pausing for a moment as the Archduchess and the Princess received their wine, she immediate took a sip. She was pleased as the drink quickly brought relief to her drying mouth. Letting out a sigh of relief, she gave the Colonel a nod, "Thank you, sir." As he walked away, Elizabeth listened to Jocasta's comments as she took another sip. "Then keep him close, Jocasta. Men like that are a rare breed, and priceless by all accounts."

“As for me more personally, I am very fond of riding and tennis, and I enjoy music, though I am not so inclined to play instruments or sing. I have always preferred reading to music, really.” she smiled. “You, Archduchess, must have had to cultivate interests over the years to balance such a stern course of duty with your own self. May I ask what you most enjoy in life, if it is not too personal a question?”

"Oh, it is not too personal at all. As I mentioned, my husband enjoyed to ride and so I spent a good amount of time doing that with him. Though, I have not done any riding since his passing. My true passion, if I may be honest with you, is art. When I was quite young, perhaps four or five, my dear Aunt Adele was intent on giving me a true appreciation with all forms of art, from oil paintings to marble sculptures. Even just last year I had to plan another addition to my gallery. While I also enjoy to read and listen to music, art is my life."

PostPosted: Sun May 24, 2020 12:32 pm
by Beliany
Baudouin looked at Theresa with a slightly less abrasive sneer. Technically she didn’t have to curtsy, the Belian royals were modern as his father had put it. Baudouin thought a stupid removal of traditions, especially since virtually no one new that. And every other monarchy demanded you to bow and kowtow to them. He looked down at the Austrysian Archduchess, both literally and figuratively, mentally dismissing her as a ditsy Princess what with her giggling and admiration for the garden’s flowers.

“Well,” Baudouin said, “that certainly is a mouthful. I’m sure your family is dreadfully proud, though it must be a bitch to put that on a name tag.” Baudouin paused for a second, tempted to simply leave her, though he supposed if he did so, here around all the guests he would be expected to return to his wife’s side, a dreadful fate. He had no desire to have to stick around with Sofia and her endless prattle with the Dauphine of Gênes. He huffed at Theresa. At she is one was not another Deritain.

“As you probably already know, I am the Duke of Brabant, a single title compared to your half a dozen, but one I find it to be far more eloquent, wouldn’t you agree?” Baudouin in a tone that made it very clear that he didn’t very care one way or another if the archduchess agreed with him or not. Baudouin half rolled his eyes, just at the flicker of the thought and plucked up a pair of champagne flutes that sparkled with a rose gold coloring. Selesburgish wine. Or maybe Polongain wine. Baudouin didn’t know, he knew it was imported and expensive.

Keeping a glass for himself, he handed the other to Theresa, taking a sip. “So, Archduchess of Austrysia, Vegzyor, Franzia, Princess of the Levantian Lands and master of all the swan in the northern most lake of whereevervania,” Baudouin said deadpannedly, “Are you one of the vultures looking to pick apart my brother’s corpse or are you just here for the free food and to look at the pretty flowers?”

PostPosted: Mon May 25, 2020 1:17 pm
by New Edom
"You are correct," the Archduchess responded. "Abstaining from indulgence is one of the greatest trials as a parent, especially being in our position. For, with monarchy, our children play, and will continue to as they age, a vital position within our ordained mission. The monarchy and the Monarch, while distinct in several ways, are in both body and spirit the same person, and, we as mothers, cannot undervalue our role. Whether we are raising the heir to an empire or the 47th in the line of succession, we must always prepare our children for the possibility of becoming the heir. And, of course, that does not even cover the subject of the effect a random member of an Imperial House can have in further degrading the entire family's reputation."

“Yes, that is why I believe that it is important to balance things like love and duty,’ Jocasta responded. “I do not want to be party to forcing people into unhappy marriages, for instance, but at the same time, it always shocks me when I hear of royal families just letting their family members marrying just whomever. However kind a person it might be, however good or brave…” she shook her head.

Elizabeth let out a chuckle. "Well, well. I must say then Prince Michael is quite a lucky man. My late husband, Prince Aleksandar of Birkenberg, was also a fan of riding and playing polo, but that was years ago." Distracted by the thought of her husband for a moment, she continued, "And congratulations with your firstborn. If I may inquire, are you hoping to have more kids? They grow so fast, but the more the merrier I always say!"

“I’m still young, and it has only been a year,” Princess Jocasta laughed. “Give me time!”

"Oh, how very interesting. While the House of Talmburg holds several notable positions within the Austrysian government, we have not held that level of direct control in a century or two. Though, I am sure it provides a good opportunity to learn more about governance and leadership."

So what kinds of positions do members of your family hold? Do they never hold military positions or serve as regional governors?” asked Jocasta curiously.

Pausing for a moment as the Archduchess and the Princess received their wine, she immediate took a sip. She was pleased as the drink quickly brought relief to her drying mouth. Letting out a sigh of relief, she gave the Colonel a nod, "Thank you, sir." As he walked away, Elizabeth listened to Jocasta's comments as she took another sip. "Then keep him close, Jocasta. Men like that are a rare breed, and priceless by all accounts."

“He is prized,” said Jocasta.

"Oh, it is not too personal at all. As I mentioned, my husband enjoyed to ride and so I spent a good amount of time doing that with him. Though, I have not done any riding since his passing. My true passion, if I may be honest with you, is art. When I was quite young, perhaps four or five, my dear Aunt Adele was intent on giving me a true appreciation with all forms of art, from oil paintings to marble sculptures. Even just last year I had to plan another addition to my gallery. While I also enjoy to read and listen to music, art is my life."

“While I enjoy art of the kind you’re describing, I’m afraid I enjoy it but take for granted that others will make sure it is there. Perhaps I should not. I should enjoy seeing your gallery sometime.

“My cousin, the King-Emperor, he likes artwork, but his tastes are very narrow. He only likes art that is related to farm life or the sea. And if the rigging of a sailing ship is wrong, it doesn’t matter to him if the work was done by a master, he will pronounce it untrue and hate it.” Jocasta laughed.

PostPosted: Mon Jun 01, 2020 5:34 am
by Great New England Confederation
Lord Kevin
Supreme Commander, Lord of Kennenbrec


Lord Kevin found himself watching the Belian countryside as it passed by, it was the man's first time visiting the nation, so he had no knowledge of what to expect besides what information he had been able to gather from reading and rumor, neither of which he was using to pass judgement. This was his first time attending such an event, and so he was mostly following advice from his wife on how to behave at such an event.

He wore his normal ceremonial uniform, although this time he had not worn the mask which he had grown used to, having been convinced by his wife to not wear it.

As the vehicle pulled up, he got out, and opened the door for his wife, ready take part in this party.

PostPosted: Tue Jun 02, 2020 3:44 pm
by Polonge
Princess Sara stepped out with her cream colored short heels, her matching cream and gold dress fluttered slightly, though the weights in her dress kept it from doing so too much. Sara smiled up at her husband, slipping an arm around his massive muscular arm, her white globs bright when pressed against the fabric of uniform. Sara, the youngest child and daughter of Alessándor Gyulás, the second husband of the former Empress Maria Anna smiled a practiced public smile as they headed into the gardens of the King of Beliany.

Sara a tall and thin woman wore her naturally blond hair in a short bob that stopped just below her ears, showing off her glittering diamond ball earrings that had been a gift from her father for her wedding. It, aside from from her wedding ring that she wore for the occasion. She wore a wide brim lace sun hat that matched her dress. “Don’t be nervous,” Sara said. “The Belians are a fairly mellow people. Just avoid anyone with a camera. Bleugatian legend has it they are as vicious as piranhas.”

As Sara and Kevin arrived, elsewhere in the gardens of the Laeken Castle grounds, Maximilian let out a nervous laugh, brought about by his husband of course. Maximilian looked at Leopold in surprise, both mockingly and genuinely.

“Leopold, that hardly seem like your place to pry into.” Maximilian gave Nukai an apologetic glance, “do forgive him. The theme of love is in the air here at the palace I’m afraid, and my beloved thinks he is Cupid all of a sudden.”

PostPosted: Tue Jun 02, 2020 4:28 pm
by Great New England Confederation
Kevin felt a small jolt of joy, although it did not show outwardly, a slight lightning of his eyes showed the affect that the touch had on him. He gave a slight smile and said "Why would I be nervous? I have conquered vicious things before, and now I have my beautiful wife at my side, surely they cannot be so dangerous as to overcome us both."

He walked with his wife, his eyes drinking in the details of the garden around him, it wasn't the jungles of Necromunda, but a handmade garden would be hard pressed to match the dangerous beauty that world possessed.

PostPosted: Sat Jun 06, 2020 11:05 am
by Polonge
“Yes,” Sara admitted, though she raised an elegant finger. She may not have been born a princess, but years of having to live with her stepsisters and just as many years of etiquette school had taught her how to mimic the regal way that those who were born with it simply seem to possess from the moment that they exited the womb.

“However, unlike the vicious beasts that you are used to dealing with, these you can’t simply dispatch with a sword or several rounds of bullet, alas, if only.”

PostPosted: Sat Jun 06, 2020 11:10 am
by Great New England Confederation
He smiled and said "My weapon does not fire bullets, and in all technicality it is possible, just that most find such actions morally incorrect."

He then said "Do not worry, it is not my first experience with unpleasant reporters"

PostPosted: Sat Jun 06, 2020 11:44 am
by Beliany
Leopold scoffed at Maximilian’s attempts to smooth over his comment, which the King found entirely unnecessary. Leopold was not playing the part of of Cupid, but merely that of a concerned family member. Not that he was playing. Leopold found that the children of his siblings, especially those of of his sister Charlotte, where left wayward, and directionless without a good role model for them to follow. After all one only needed to look at his nieces Alexia, God bless her soul, and Adela to see that they had rushed to marriages and life only to have it but then in the arse latter on, though typically not that much later.

William, with his sensible marriage to the Empress of Atmora had obviously been granted the same sense from the gene pool as Leopold. Leopold found that his nephew and niece from his eldest brother, Louis and Marléne had quite sensible heads on their shoulders and would do well under his guidance for a good match, ones that would compliment their own attributes, and strengthen the whole of their family. Even Nukai, who if he could manage to maintain a favorable political career in Russlamde, especially Russlande of all places then that would be sure to serve as a great boon for them all. Of course it seemed for the time that Nukai was lost in the wind.

Leopold certainly understood the desire to sow ones oats, as the saying goes, and Nukai had certainly made a name for himself with his daughters with Ariane of the Netherlands and Marie-Sofie of Catorana, but such children, even with the impressive bloodlines that they had would been seen with harshness because of the status of their birth. Leopold felt that Nukai needed to have his desires tempered, preferably by a nice stable and respectable Princess. Or perhaps even a Queen. It was not simply the reputation of his own children Leopold had to consider, but also that of all his near relations. Each branch on the family tree had to be carefully tended to or a rot might spread to even the roots.

“Nonsense,” Leopold said. “Trust me, when you get to be my age to start to see things on the bigger picture my love. You can spend your youth playing around perhaps, but one must realize that the time comes for one to grown up and settle down. Family is incredibly important, especially for people like us. Spouses, children, whether one personally cares for them or not, it is the duty of dynasts to acquire them. And who better than your good Uncle Leopold to help you out in such a situation?”