Celebrating Spring in Style (IC, Open)

[The Selkie]

Hello and welcome to Celebrating Spring in Style!
While you are welcome to read along, please apply and be accepted on this OOC before posting here!
With that out of the way, let's have fun!

Raidri Uinér of the Tribe of Laois.
VIP-Lounge of Seomrasuí House.
The lounge was filling with people – guests, technically of myself, practically of the Cult of Lodan Lir. I was but the steward of Seomrasuí House in the Old Town of Cuan. It was a large complex of buildings, four in total, the main building being a three storey building. The lounge was in the third storey, right under the attic, overlooking Cuan's New Tournament Field of the City.
A small circumfencing wall secured the complex, which also included stables (which would be used by the competitors for the Cuan City Trophy and the Cuan City Youth Trophy), the steward's (read my) house and a small shrine to Lodan Lir. Guests of the Envoy of Lodan Lir, Miss Mona Beag of the Tribe of Louth, would have to pass a security checkpoint at the entrance, there were City Guard, Arrowmaidens and even the odd SDF-people around.
Honestly, I was more concerned about the buffet table then about security.
And about my guests, of course.
Dressed in the Geansai in the colours of Lodan Lir, light blue and deep blue, I made the last observations – an impressive spread was on the buffet, sweets and nibbles from Selkie-Cuisine dominated, but there were Teressian, Kyrenaian and other teats. The Handmaidens had outdone themselves, both from my own household, but also the hand full of Kyrenaian Handmaidens and the three Hausmädchen from Teressien, which Princesses Nela, Sunna and Rena had dispatched to my kitchens.
Speaking of the three, Princess Rena had planned to be in Riverwood today and compete for the Riverwood Lancer Trophy, a.k.a. the Riverwood Trophy of Pointy Sticks, but as her leg in a plaster cast told, that her plans had been slightly derailed. Her cane was at her side and her sister as well as her friend were very careful around her.
I smiled, as the three of them conversed with Mara and Mavie Urgharda.
I turned.
The Main Building was quite long, spanning once the entire length of the New Tournament Field and then some. In a good hour or so, in good view of the bay windows with cushions and the stands outside, horsearchers would ride in full gallop, around 45 kilometers per hour, and fire at five targets at an ever increasing distance, an average time between releases being five seconds (which was considered the competitive minimum). The field was more then three hundred metres long, the VIP Lounge was around sixty metres long and right in the middle. Targets could be up to 600 metres away.
Originally, the plan had been to just welcome the Kyrenaian Minister of Foreign Affairs, who was on a visit, but then, Princess Rena had announced her interest of being here. Then other notabilities had invited themselves. Then Mona had the idea, to make it more open for the VIPs of SEA and elsewhere.
And here we were.
Prince Pandereos has sent an RSVP, as did Baronin Wilrun, Theomer Arling had announced his intention to come, Andy Paul would be here, Severin Gunnarsson, too, the list was long... it would be interesting to see, how they all mixed, especially among themselves and with our own people, of which there were... plenty.
I smiled and took a look around. Many Geansais, many dresses and suits.
Well, what sort of host would I be, if I wouldn't mingle? My two sons were already hard at work, Aonas flirting with Celina Riar, while Nuada was talking shop with Kean Iavala. My younger daughter and my wife were inspecting the bay windows, while Siana was hard at work as an Apprentice-Handmaiden. She threw me a smile before she floated away.
I bumped into someone.
I smiled at the orange-crowned head. “My apologies, Mona.”, I said with a small bow.
Mona Beag, who did the sacred rites for the day, shook her head. “It's alright.”, she said and made a small step to the side, inviting me into her group, “Brigadier Fuil, Mister Fuil and I were just discussing the competition. Who's your favourite?”
I smiled and joined the strict looking, stern officer, her husband and the spiritual leader of the Selkie with a smile. “I am cheering for whoever my daughters crush on this week.”, I said, Mister Fuil chuckled. I remembered, that the two had two adopted children, boys, if I remembered correctly. I motioned to the silken band wrapped around Mona's belt. “I don't think, that I need to ask.”
“I asked Conny.”, she admitted with a small blush. I raised an eyebrow. “Conchobar Scathamagh. He competes for the River's Crossing Trophy.”
“Well, that is a bit of a surprise.”, I admitted with a smile, “But good for the lad. Finally.”
“I'm sorry?”
“Oh, please.”, the Brigadier said, showing a rare smile, “He was crushing on you for quite a while now. Even I could see that.”
Mona blushed, averted her gaze.
I put a hand on her shoulder and squeezed it. “Don't worry, I'm sure, that he'll perform well.”, I said, then looked into the round, “If you would all please excuse me? Many guests to greet and many things to attend to.”
“Of course, Mister Uinér.”, the Brigadier said and nodded. “My best regards to Alaina.”
“See ya!”, Mona replied and grinned.
I nodded. “Of course. And good luck to Mister Scathamagh.”, I told Mona and turned to the VIP-Lounge.
This promised to be a good day – and an interesting one at that!

[New Visayan Islands]

Gabriel J. Cui, CPA
Cuan, The Free Lands
March 20th, AD 2022
0733 Local Time

"Last I was here in the city was five years ago," Gabriel's father, Samuel Cui, began. "A lot has changed since then, I will admit."
"And the fact that VAI has a facility in Traverse isn't a giveaway?" Gabriel said. "I understand this is a vacation well-earned after that meeting of yours, Dad, but truth be told, the most I can say is that I would sooner defer to your experience here, mainly because I don't quite know the first thing about the Free Lands." Father and son were approaching Seomrasuí House as they walked, masks in place and a healthy distance between others maintained. They would approach the place, with Samuel pointing out his experiences to Gabriel, some of which were those he left out of his memoirs. While Samuel dressed conservatively--a black suit with a white shirt and blue tie--Gabriel had dispensed with a coat, preferring a crimson dress shirt unbuttoned at the top.

Gerald A. Vicente, MBA
Seomrasuí House, Cuan, The Free Lands
March 20th, AD 2022
0737 Local Time

There was something about Cuan that proved to be quite appealing to Gerald Vicente. Perhaps it was the liveliness of the event. Perhaps it was amazement at how such a demonstration of skill managed to draw in a considerable number of tourists. Or perhaps it was because he was enjoying it with one Amy Ramallae of the Tribe of Monaghan, a woman who, if one were to be an unrepentant romantic, stole his heart with a smile. Regardless, Cuan was indeed appealing to the man...and he liked it.

[Bolrieg]

After arriving on a jet from Shadforad, into the Silverport International airport. Anastasia Kladnov had arrived to take a break from recent events in her personal life and figured going to the Cuan Festival would be entertaining and have to chance to meet new people while possibly meeting those spoken to online. The thoughts transpired while waiting for the next train to take her to the city.

In the meantime she was reading up in the historical events of the 19th century as much for work purposes as for personal enjoyment. She sighed as she wondered what would have happened if certain events did or didn’t happen. As the train arrived into view Anastasija had pushed the various thoughts to the back of her mind and instead focussed on the various events and the fun she could have. Although first was to see the nature outside of the window.

In the time between stations she had a good look at the woods and the various animals frolicking in the area, dangerous up close no doubt. After a couple of hours she had arrived into Cuan seeing all the other guests and locals also preparing for the festival. Heading to Seomrasuí House and going into the VIP section. Wearing a smart casual attire of a dress shirt and jeans, she looked around, smiled and proceeded to mingle with the crowd.

[Polish Prussian Commonwealth]

OOC: soonish

[AHSCA]

Seomrasuí House
Cuan, The Free Lands
March 20th, 2022




Tsubaki, well that was her name, who was she? For most she was the face of Aurora's Kitan, the closest thing to a luxury resort the islands had, but even then it was still just as beloved by locals as it was by foreigners. But outward appearances and that, don't always tell the whole story. Tsubaki, was born here in the Freelands, under the name Ceridwen in the year 1230 of the Common Era and it was her home for the first 150 years, unthinkable amount of time for a normal person but the blink of an eye for her kind, a Spiorad Ainmhithe. Well, to make a very long story short, she wandered the Freelands and then the world after being ran out of her home and found her way to what is now the UIS some hundreds of years back and has hardly left since. Well no more, now she was taking a long overdue vacation and well maybe it was finally time to return home again. The Freelands It wasn't exactly nostalgic being back, because well she hadn't been back in centuries. Needless to say it had changed considerably, from memory, well oh well, the whole world has changed. She can also remember a time when AHSCA wasn't AHSCA but a loose archipelago of islands, to an "Empire" of sorts, to a semi-confederation, to a war torn area to now, the strange Frankenstein mix of monarchism, republicanism, federalism and whatever else you might use to describe it.

Well anyway, somehow someway she managed to be invited to this party, chances are by a guest stayed that at the Kitan and was impressed. Well that was a good thing, she worked hard and her girls worked hard to make it a good place for people to stay. Honestly if you were to ask her, she was more in-tuned with the culture of AHSCA than of the place she was born. She wore a kimono daily, she practiced the religion, (she was even once a Temple Matron) Chances are, even her kinsmen wouldn't think of her as one of them, after all AHSCA was home to plenty of ordinary kemonomimi people, people who lived a rather normal lifecycle similar to that of any ordinary human. People with catlike, fox-like or other animal-like features. Her appearance was fox-like because why not, foxes are cute and clever little creatures.

Reading over the invitation with instructions, Tsubaki was invited to join specifically in the VIP lounge, well guess it was good to head their first, time for sightseeing around Cuan later. Had she ever been here? Mmmmm now it was a bit of a struggle to remember, after all cities come and go over the centuries, names get changed, locations even change because the way the Earth changes. Plus well as sharp as she was for her age, even she couldn't remember every little detail of the last seven centuries of life. Plus well, this was a vacation, time to kick back and be a tourist for a change instead of always being the one to serve the tourists. Well here she was, only a few others had arrived so far it seemed, well it was still early in the morning, some folks are early risers and others like to sleep in a while. Well that's good, plenty of time to talk.

[Danceria]

Theomer Arling
Seomrasuí House, Cuan, Free Lands of the Selkie.

---

Theomer had dwelt some time in the Selkie-lands, and would like to think he knew a thing or two-or at least, bothered to listen to the Blaidd siblings of Tralee Descent to pretend he knew of a few things. Firstly, he knew of the Host, the Reverend Prior Raidri Uinér by way of his younger son, Aonas. Both studied economics, though Mr. Uinér the Up-And-Coming was his senior in many regards. A few even quipped that they were long lost kinsmen, though Theomer would thoroughly rebuke such notions. In his blood was Eorling-from Eorl the First and the cataphracts that came with the Empire of Archades. No Selkie blood as far as he was aware, and doubly so in what really told them apart. While his heterochromia was unique-honest to God blood-red irises were something strange. At least, not without a plethora of other health issues.

It would have been amusing for Elinn Blaidd to note when he had confided his concern in her that the son of a Prior was imbibing most heavily in hashish.

Secondly, he knew whom gave him his VIP, and who he would have to deliver his greetings to; Ms. Mona Beag of Louth. He didn't mind the security, since it meant that his guardian wouldn't fret over the fact that he was disputing the claim of a centuries-old tradition of pagan rulers in his homeland. Something that would eventually be brought to light-but not now he hoped. For now, say your hellos to the nice orange-haired lady-and keep cordial around the Brigadier and his wife(?). He was relatively sure it was a Missus Brigadier General.

Unto the more noteworthy names-the people who actually would care about such political notions, and those he remembered from Stavros's own "debriefing"...

The Teressian Princesses, Nela and Rena von Zieselhaven und Elms, and Sunna von Wißenthen. They would not find his Deutsch lacking, though perhaps sprinkled with more Platt than Hoch for their preferences. German was the first language he learned besides Sindarin-as Dancerians were born bilingual and with a whole host of dialects, tongues, and accents, so he decided how to craft his persona in German. That of a salt-of-the-Earth self-made Prince, at least on paper. Of the three Princesses, along with their handmaidens, were a visage of grace and elegance, though most of their work would no doubt be behind closed doors. Rena in particular was rather spirited, having only been hindered from partaking in the games by injury-as evidenced by her cast and cane. Theomer sympathized, having partaken in the Marach back in Leuda, as a mere club member. Of course, Dancerians were notoriously belligerent-at least those who had the luxury of not appearing at meetings and posh attendances. Perhaps next year, for as he knew, neither Blaidd sister could partake.

He shouldn't think of them right now, not like this.

Perhaps instead he should speak with Minister and Grand Vizier Azad Safir of Kyrenaia, and his young ward Atif Qalb? Kyrenaia had been recent partners with Danceria, both as members of the former Monarchist Treaty Organization, and now as SEA. If ever he needed a break from politics, he could talk shop with the agronomist...but no doubt Stavros would demad that Theo guage the young lad Atif. With the rather...messy breakup between the hearthrob of Kyrenaia-Aurellia bint-Damir-and the Duchess of AHSCA-there were of course rumors that Danceria's preeminent single father and the Princess of Utica. Besides, he shouldn't pester the young lad-or the elder in matters of the heart, not when he hadn't gotten his own in order...

The Cui's perhaps? The Visayans were a powerhouse in their own right in the SEA? He didn't come here as a Prince, so any agreements no doubt would be unofficial, but playing the complicated games of favors? The Duchess of Cambridge? See above, though he had heard that Hanoverian Britain also had some dealings with the Solidors...maybe? Plus Erika would skin him alive if he'd unintentionally spoke with a "nonce".
There were a few Pergamonians, an Abbetonian Parliamentarian, Prince Pandareos of Athalyssya himself-Wait was that the manager of the Kitan?

Uh-oh. Gossip would surely follow a good inkeeper like flies on feces.

With a scowl, he nearly collided with the Steward of the place-Excellent job Your Highness!

"Terribly sorry Prior Uinér." Theomer began, turning his pensive scowl to something more presentably stoic. "Theomer Arling, at your service."

[Phibeta]

VIP-Lounge of Seomrasuí House, Cuan City. The Freelands. March 20th, 2022.

Happy are those who celebrate the world, that is likewise the case here in this fine city of Cuan in the Free Lands. It’s around this time of year, that many people take a spring holiday outside of the Grand Kingdom of Phibeta. Though, even though it is holiday season, work continues for many who wish to pursue it. Enter Mr. William Sutherland, the CEO of one of the most successful and oldest cosmetic brands in Phibeta and a few parts of Greater Dienstad, Soie Leisse. They have built on the success of moisturizer which they weren’t the first ones to do so, but they were the first to successfully mass-produce the stuff, and it sold like hotcake in the 1850s. Since that time, the company has expanded on manufacturing other cosmetic products and introduced its own brand of chocolates. They have grown from the commercial town of Appleby, to the rest of Phibeta, even being granted a royal warrant to provide cosmetics and chocolates for the royal family since 1923. The company continues to grow today, with stores overseas. But there is always a new market to be tapped, and that is certainly the case here and with others within high society. He has been invited to a festival it seems, and it was the perfect place to tap into the international market.

It was also here that artists of the stage will also be there, and it just so happens that a passing acquaintance (and one the receiving end of Sutherland’s generous patronage), Mr. Alexander Karinsky, the director of the Royal Weston Opera Company. His experience as a great artist, putting on great after great productions of operas old and new had earned him regional acclaim. He dares to push boundaries and sometimes creates controversies along the way. This year he wants to bring some international singers into his production, this year being “The Butcheress of Sauville”, an opera composed by Laura Jenkins after the Penensuila Wars of 1861 (where Phibeta claimed victory over an overreaching Abetton empire) that deals with heavy themes of slavery, cannibalism, all of which to make the butcheress (Queen Beatrix) look more evil than she was. This was at the prime of the Phibetan Empire and nationalistic fervor.

Times have changed, the empire might have fallen, but the music of the era still lives on, but only something not on the West end of Weston. But this year, Alexander Karinsky wanted to make a revival of this opera into new production. A lot of folks have been wondering why a new production of political propaganda.

“It’s very contemporary,” says Alexander.

“What are you talking about?” William asks as they stroll through the city of Cuan.

“People ask me, why the Bucheress of Sauville? I’ll tell you. It speaks to our present values. We are doomed to repeat history if we do not learn from it. Only through art can we remember the past, the atrocities, and our humanity. Art is the way we think”.

“How interesting”. The two gentlemen continued to walk down the street.

“Thanks for letting me come along with you William”.

“It’s no problem Mr. Karinsky. Your company always purchases our products for your productions, and my company is a generous patron of the Royal Weston Opera. It’s only fair”.

“Indeed. I always wanted to see what other performers would think of the opera, and perhaps they would come to Weston to audition. I want this thing to be very special. It’s the first production of this opera in the West End since the 1960s”.

“Sounds like an interesting proposition. So that is the reason you are carrying those informational flyers” William replies pointing at the flyers in Alexander’s hands. Information including the title of the opera, the production dates, and contact information toward Alexander Karinsky.

“I’m hoping to hand it out to a few prospecting musicians and performers. As well as posting these all over town when I get the chance”.

“I see. Makes sense”.

“I’m telling you, this is going to be big”. They continue to walk through the lovely city until they reached to where they were attending. The VIP-Lounge of Seomrasuí House. Many peoples of high society is to gather here. A good place to promote William’s cosmetics, and to promote Alexander’s opera production. They both enter the lounge and go to the receptionist. William presents to the receptionist their RSVPs.

“Hello” he states, while showing the RSVPs. “We understand this is the lounge. I am William Sutherland of Soie Leisse. And this man here is Alexander Karinsky of the Royal Weston Opera Company”.

[Katase]

Sajuna Inui and Kirara Kuno, a couple of hard rocking girls from Katase, and their straight laced manager, Sakura Kagamihara. In a sense a mother to both girls, in another sense like a school teacher to them both.

Sajuna and Kirara have been friends since starting middle school, hard as it is to believe, Sajuna is normally pretty shy compared to Kirara who is very extroverted and outgoing but the two clicked when they became the only two members of their school's music club. Sajuna a bass player and Kirara, a guitar player. Rock music, punk rock, a little bit of metal, they really covered the spectrum of the heavy rock genre with a little bit of pop in because well guess a couple of girls who enjoy the fluffy sides of life can't help themselves. Perhaps that's what made their music so appealing they managed a record deal before they were even high schoolers, speaking of they are know. It took a lot of wheeling and dealing to get their parents to agree for them to miss a few days of school for this. Infant Alloy was their band name, why because why not? What's another word for metal? Alloy, are they infants? Well no, they're just young. Maybe Adolescence Alloy would have been better? Has a nice ring, but a little late for that. "My heart pounds a mile a second..." Sajuna muttered twirling a pen in her fingers sitting in the back of a car on their way over to this party they were set to attend. Well at least it wasn't uber formal, they got to dress how they always dress, cute clothes, plenty of piercings because they're rebellious teenagers (well at least that's the image).

"Sa-chan thinking up some new lyrics?" Kirara asked resting her head against Sajuna's shoulder. "Mhmmmmmmmm" Sajuna just gave a long moan "I'm trying but I just can't get it with the rhythm I'm thinking of."

"Well write them out and I can always give it a shot." Both girls tag teamed writing songs between lyrics and melodies. "Don't think so much about it right now, we got plenty of time to come up with some new songs."

Their manager sighed "You always say that, Kuno-san but you end up putting it off to the last minute."

"Saku-chan, relaaax" Kirara took the spining pen and free hand of Sajuna to hold.

"We always come through right?"

"Perhaps but I fear the day when you don't."

Kirara sighed "I've been thinking up some lyrics too. I got a sick riff melody. Just a shame our flight was so boring and ordinary, I was hoping for some turbulence to shake up the words out of my head."

Sakura just sighed again these two were a handful indeed, especially Kirara "I think you just wanted to see me at my worst."

"Ah I've seen you at your worst, Manager. Trust me, it's scary."

"Ki-chaaan" Sajuna giggled nervously "Don't push her buttons."

"Thank you, Inui-san. Meantime you two, I think I cleared it with all needed you two should be able to play today."

"I would hope so, hate to think we dragged our instruments along for nothing." Kirara sighed

"I just hope I don't make a fool of myself trying to make small talk." Sajuna said.

"Ah don't worry Sa-chan. The moment you put a bass in your hands you like totally transform into another person. Just hang onto your bass the entire time"

"It might be a bit difficult, I don't know how big the space we'll be in, carrying your instruments all through the party might be cumbersome and trouble for everyone." She smiled, rare for the usually stoic woman. "Sajuna" ooh first names, that's how you know she's being frank. "Try a few tricks that I learned to get over my fears about public speaking. " She gave a pretty good list of tips, cathartic breathing, imagining people like they were her close family or other friends, "And remember you are you. You are a success already. No need to feel embarrassed if you stumble or anything just remember you made it this far. And do what you do on stage."

Their transportation came to a stop, they were here at last. A few minutes to get situated, the driver compensated and any instructions of being picked up when called and anything else. The girls had their instruments strapped in their cases and propped on their backs. "Farewell mortal driver" Kirara joked

"Ki-chan, let's not freak out the locals."

"All right we're settled." Sakura said adjusting her suit jacket "Let's head inside."

And now we're here in the VIP room. "ooh fancy digs!" Kirara said with her free hand she pulled out her phone to snap pictures and take a selfie with her and her gal pal. With her good eye, Sajuna took a look around the room, a few people were here already but it wasn't super crowded yet. One person caught Sajuna's eyes, it was the tall beautiful wait, a fox woman? Like the old legends of Katase spoke of? Wait there was a country nearby to Katase, a few days by sea even that was full of their kind, of course. "She really is pretty" she thought, lest she make Kirara jelous, well Ki-chan the only girl for her. "mmm Ki-chan...."

"Just be easy, Sa-chan. Remember everyone here just wants to party like us."

"You're right, I'm being silly."

"Ah just being you. Just be careful, it gets crowded you might bump into a lot of people." Sajuna was actually partly blind, her right eye to be exact which is partly why she wore an eye patch. It wasn't needed but it completed her ensemble.

"Well..." Sajuna giggled "Maybe that will be a good ice breaker huh?"

[Seleucid Pergamon]

VIP-Lounge of Seomrasuí House, Cuan City, Selkie Freelands

Ranging from a musical artist to a band of company officers, adolescents to adults, casual to formal wear, and black and white to pink hair (peculiar, yes), this varying collection would perhaps be a sign of their idiosyncratic opulence.

Alongside, many had their reasons for heading to this city of exotic quality. Most wanted a break from their effort-staking lives, but there were a couple who were there for potential connections.

Nevertheless, this was also a chance to explore with delight, to revel in a unique environment of a foreign land like a daydream. Entering the threshold of their designated lounge of the House after verification, enchantment and excitement permeated their minds and hearts. There were many guests and other individuals, a forest that would leave them lost when mesmerized. And already, one of them, a rather lavishly-dressed blonde-haired young adult that spells enthusiasm, had her eyes brighten like a light bulb switched on.

"What a crowd," chortled an elderly man who still gleams strength despite his age.

A bespectacled man younger than him sighed and adjusted his glasses, as if shooing his nervousness to hide upfront.

"Well, everyone. Feel free to mingle," he adjured, expected of one who organized the trip.

The group then dispersed into smaller groups, all either seeking a conversation from those that piqued their beguilement, or talk among themselves and render the former as a prospect.

[New Visayan Islands]

Jonathan Joseph B. Alquizola, MS (Accountancy), CPA, CFA
Seomrasuí House, Cuan, The Free Lands
March 20th, AD 2022
0743 Local Time

The VIP room of Seomrasuí House was a lively place, and the COO of Hong Long Investments knew it. A stint in Cuan was quite the vacation for Alquizola, though the idea of Hong Long expanding into the rest of the Strategic and Economic Alliance was not far from the 45-year-old's mind. Hong Long Investments may not be one of the Visayan Banking Trinity--that trinity was composed of Suico, Jimenez, and Du, the Bank of the Visayan Islands, and Dragonfire Securities--but it was a financial service powerhouse in its own right.
...and it seems he wasn't the only Visayan who thought a stint in Cuan was a good idea. He saw Samuel Cui and a younger man--most likely Gabriel, his son--enter the VIP lounge. From across his position, he could see Hiram Yabut bobbing his head to a tune, while he noticed Gerald Vicente and his Selkie girlfriend enjoying the buffet. He knew Yabut and Vicente from several months back, having been part of Yabut's party aboard the Mindoreño's yacht...which in turn was the product of Samuel Cui's company, he thought as the realization dawned on him.
It was at that moment that Alquizola realized that there was something more to the big names across the SEA and beyond gathering to celebrate in Cuan.

[Aaaaaa]

"So... do you remember her name?"
"Amy... Eiffel? I think?"
"Eiffel? Like the tower?"
"Like the what?"

Two young women stood at the entrance to the Seomrasuí House in Cuan, following a loose, scribbled map they had jotted down as well as awkwardly asking for directions from the locals. While both of them had visited the Free Lands not too long ago, neither had been to Cuan. They arrived at the establishment just a moment ago, not entirely sure if they were at the right place.

"You dragged us all the way out here to meet someone you don't even remember the name of? Are you sure you didn't want to just get out of Aaaaaa?"
"Why do you ask that like you didn't want out as well?"
"Noeanyyn... I... ugh."
The shorter girl slumped her shoulders and looked down. "It's not that. I just... I just feel like these trips we have, it's just us running away from our problems."
"What problems? Aaaaaa? Aaaaaa isn't a fucking problem anymore, Meausa. Aaaaaa is dead!" Noeanyyn snapped back. "The less time we spend there, the better."

Technically, she isn't wrong. Aaaaaa, Noeanyyn and Meausa's former country, has been under a violent public uprising since the early beginnings of the COVID-19 outbreak. The Aaaaaan Government can barely be defined as existing anymore, and the countries former colonizers, the pseudo-soviet state Aurnvon and the bureaucracy-infested Lievue have once again invaded the farming nation in an attempt to stop the virus, which had been particularly deadly in Aaaaaa. Now, with Aurnvon and Lievue threatening eachother for power in the region, only time will tell if Aaaaaa becomes a battlefield.

"Noean, don't say that... you've just got to have faith. Everything's going to be alright back home." Meausa responded meekly, not even believing it herself. She turned her attention back towards the entrance to the building. "Well... regardless, we're here now, so... let's not be so depressing right?"
"...Sure."

The duo opened the doors to the Seomrasuí House and stepped inside. As they entered the lobby, they could immediately tell that, whatever was happening here, they were severely underdressed for it. Every guest they saw was immaculately dressed and looked fully prepared for some fine dining and upper-class mingling. Meausa's apparel (a pair of jeans and a brown turtleneck sweater) didn't remotely fit the occasion, and Noeanyyn's (another pair of jeans, and a hand-me-down letterman jacket that was older than her) was even worse.

"I have a feeling we went to the wrong building." Meausa whispered.
"What makes you think that?" She could feel the biting sarcasm. "We look like... Aaaaaans."

[Hanoverian Great Britain]

"So, this is that place that she's sort of talking about", muttered Victoria to herself as her two feet carried her to the front of Seomrasuí House. While it was not exactly the beach that her younger sister, Alexandra was talking about, it nevertheless ultimately led her to this new, foreign place, whose people Victoria herself is largely unfamiliar with, and where her very own younger sister had a time of her own a couple of years or so before. Outfitted in a simple white pantsuit, an outfit reminiscent of the fashion style associated with the late legendary actress, Katharine Hepburn, and with a clear expression of overwhelming curiosity on her face, Victoria's own adventure in this much foreign land has begun.

After swiftly securing her access into the VIP section, Victoria was subsequently caught a little off-guard by the number of guests present around her, all of whom she could not even put a face or a name to in a jitter. Nonetheless, such a scene would not be the one to stop her from being here, as she began cautiously making her way around the many people around her, hoping to strike a conversation with someone out of pure randomness. In the right pocket of her pants lies a small-sized notebook or the sort, while on the left pocket, otherwise lies her personal smartphone. A black pen, which perhaps, is best used alongside the notebook is safely clipped onto her outfit from underneath the left collar of her pantsuit.

[Brettenwald]

"They'll let anyone in here these days," Val Teissedre said with a grin and a firm handshake. "What are you doing in the land the Industrial Revolution forgot, Sev?"

The tall guy in the white suit and black shirt & tie with the almost-mullet smiled, intricate tattoos just barely visible past his collar. "Needed a vacation and this came up at the right time. You?"

"Marti wanted to get away from it all and I figured it'd be a good networking opportunity." Typical Val, Severin Gunnarsson thought. Even when she was on vacation she was playing 4-D corporate chess. "And I've got something of a friend here, Mona Colaícht- probably butchered the pronunciation of her last name but oh well, who's in the aircraft business. Last saw her at a diplomatic event in Nifon so we'll have some catching up to do if she's here."

Severin raised an eyebrow. "That bunch of Christian loons?"

"Hey, I'm as confused as to why they invited me as you are. Shall we?"

The three of them formed a somewhat unusual little group as they entered Seomrasuí House, with the willowy Val in her trademark girlboss suit, her decidedly curvier wife Martina in a peacock blue dress & dove-grey blazer, and the industrial musician bringing up the rear built like the proverbial brick shithouse and looking like he belonged more in a Miami Beach nightclub than Cuan. No time like the present to start mingling, was there?

[New Visayan Islands]

Hiram E. Yabut
Seomrasuí House, Cuan, The Free Lands
March 20th, AD 2022
0752 Local Time

There were many things to consider for Hiram Yabut, the founder and president of Solar Overdrive. Knowing that renewable energy was, as many environmentally-minded people were wont to call it, the future meant that the man whose solar farms were providing power both in his home province of Mindoro and beyond had no shortage of admirers. At thirty, the native of Calapan was among the Confederation's most eligible bachelors, and to his credit, he did have the looks and the energy to match.
The mask he wore may have concealed the grin, but one could see it in the eyes. Hiram was not only looking forward to the opportunity to network with others, but also to enjoy his time in Cuan.

[Bolrieg]

"So... do you remember her name?"
"Amy... Eiffel? I think?"
"Eiffel? Like the tower?"
"Like the what?"

Two young women stood at the entrance to the Seomrasuí House in Cuan, following a loose, scribbled map they had jotted down as well as awkwardly asking for directions from the locals. While both of them had visited the Free Lands not too long ago, neither had been to Cuan. They arrived at the establishment just a moment ago, not entirely sure if they were at the right place.

"You dragged us all the way out here to meet someone you don't even remember the name of? Are you sure you didn't want to just get out of Aaaaaa?"
"Why do you ask that like you didn't want out as well?"
"Noeanyyn... I... ugh."
The shorter girl slumped her shoulders and looked down. "It's not that. I just... I just feel like these trips we have, it's just us running away from our problems."
"What problems? Aaaaaa? Aaaaaa isn't a fucking problem anymore, Meausa. Aaaaaa is dead!" Noeanyyn snapped back. "The less time we spend there, the better."

Technically, she isn't wrong. Aaaaaa, Noeanyyn and Meausa's former country, has been under a violent public uprising since the early beginnings of the COVID-19 outbreak. The Aaaaaan Government can barely be defined as existing anymore, and the countries former colonizers, the pseudo-soviet state Aurnvon and the bureaucracy-infested Lievue have once again invaded the farming nation in an attempt to stop the virus, which had been particularly deadly in Aaaaaa. Now, with Aurnvon and Lievue threatening eachother for power in the region, only time will tell if Aaaaaa becomes a battlefield.

"Noean, don't say that... you've just got to have faith. Everything's going to be alright back home." Meausa responded meekly, not even believing it herself. She turned her attention back towards the entrance to the building. "Well... regardless, we're here now, so... let's not be so depressing right?"
"...Sure."

The duo opened the doors to the Seomrasuí House and stepped inside. As they entered the lobby, they could immediately tell that, whatever was happening here, they were severely underdressed for it. Every guest they saw was immaculately dressed and looked fully prepared for some fine dining and upper-class mingling. Meausa's apparel (a pair of jeans and a brown turtleneck sweater) didn't remotely fit the occasion, and Noeanyyn's (another pair of jeans, and a hand-me-down letterman jacket that was older than her) was even worse.

"I have a feeling we went to the wrong building." Meausa whispered.
"What makes you think that?" She could feel the biting sarcasm. "We look like... Aaaaaans."

After noticing the bickering near the entrance Anastasja would recognise those two anywhere, she walked up to her friends she had not seen in ages and waived to the pair.

“Zdravo, Meausa, Noeanyyn. I’m glad to see you two here, I was worried I might have been out of place. I hope all has been well with you two? Let’s us go find a spot, drinks are on me.”

[The Selkie]

Theomer Arling
Seomrasuí House, Cuan, Free Lands of the Selkie.

---

Theomer had dwelt some time in the Selkie-lands, and would like to think he knew a thing or two-or at least, bothered to listen to the Blaidd siblings of Tralee Descent to pretend he knew of a few things. Firstly, he knew of the Host, the Reverend Prior Raidri Uinér by way of his younger son, Aonas. Both studied economics, though Mr. Uinér the Up-And-Coming was his senior in many regards. A few even quipped that they were long lost kinsmen, though Theomer would thoroughly rebuke such notions. In his blood was Eorling-from Eorl the First and the cataphracts that came with the Empire of Archades. No Selkie blood as far as he was aware, and doubly so in what really told them apart. While his heterochromia was unique-honest to God blood-red irises were something strange. At least, not without a plethora of other health issues.

It would have been amusing for Elinn Blaidd to note when he had confided his concern in her that the son of a Prior was imbibing most heavily in hashish.

Secondly, he knew whom gave him his VIP, and who he would have to deliver his greetings to; Ms. Mona Beag of Louth. He didn't mind the security, since it meant that his guardian wouldn't fret over the fact that he was disputing the claim of a centuries-old tradition of pagan rulers in his homeland. Something that would eventually be brought to light-but not now he hoped. For now, say your hellos to the nice orange-haired lady-and keep cordial around the Brigadier and his wife(?). He was relatively sure it was a Missus Brigadier General.

Unto the more noteworthy names-the people who actually would care about such political notions, and those he remembered from Stavros's own "debriefing"...

The Teressian Princesses, Nela and Rena von Zieselhaven und Elms, and Sunna von Wißenthen. They would not find his Deutsch lacking, though perhaps sprinkled with more Platt than Hoch for their preferences. German was the first language he learned besides Sindarin-as Dancerians were born bilingual and with a whole host of dialects, tongues, and accents, so he decided how to craft his persona in German. That of a salt-of-the-Earth self-made Prince, at least on paper. Of the three Princesses, along with their handmaidens, were a visage of grace and elegance, though most of their work would no doubt be behind closed doors. Rena in particular was rather spirited, having only been hindered from partaking in the games by injury-as evidenced by her cast and cane. Theomer sympathized, having partaken in the Marach back in Leuda, as a mere club member. Of course, Dancerians were notoriously belligerent-at least those who had the luxury of not appearing at meetings and posh attendances. Perhaps next year, for as he knew, neither Blaidd sister could partake.

He shouldn't think of them right now, not like this.

Perhaps instead he should speak with Minister and Grand Vizier Azad Safir of Kyrenaia, and his young ward Atif Qalb? Kyrenaia had been recent partners with Danceria, both as members of the former Monarchist Treaty Organization, and now as SEA. If ever he needed a break from politics, he could talk shop with the agronomist...but no doubt Stavros would demad that Theo guage the young lad Atif. With the rather...messy breakup between the hearthrob of Kyrenaia-Aurellia bint-Damir-and the Duchess of AHSCA-there were of course rumors that Danceria's preeminent single father and the Princess of Utica. Besides, he shouldn't pester the young lad-or the elder in matters of the heart, not when he hadn't gotten his own in order...

The Cui's perhaps? The Visayans were a powerhouse in their own right in the SEA? He didn't come here as a Prince, so any agreements no doubt would be unofficial, but playing the complicated games of favors? The Duchess of Cambridge? See above, though he had heard that Hanoverian Britain also had some dealings with the Solidors...maybe? Plus Erika would skin him alive if he'd unintentionally spoke with a "nonce".
There were a few Pergamonians, an Abbetonian Parliamentarian, Prince Pandareos of Athalyssya himself-Wait was that the manager of the Kitan?

Uh-oh. Gossip would surely follow a good inkeeper like flies on feces.

With a scowl, he nearly collided with the Steward of the place-Excellent job Your Highness!

"Terribly sorry Prior Uinér." Theomer began, turning his pensive scowl to something more presentably stoic. "Theomer Arling, at your service."

Raidri Uinér of the Tribe of Laois.
Indeed, someone bumped into me – a turn saw me face to face with someone, who was putting on a stoic face and apologizing, introducing himself as Theomer Arling.
Blonde, blue eyed, awfully young-looking, but who was I to talk? He also looked suitably athletic. Indeed, Aonas had spoken of him, with begrudging respect for his bravery. Not many men went after a Spiorad and although Branwen was among the more approachable ones of their kind, she still was one of the Eternal Ones.
Now, however, these thoughts were pushed at the back of my head, a smile breaking out.
“No problem, Mister Arling.”, I decided to use his last name, “But please, young man... just call me Raidri. Or, if you insist, Milord Raidri, as it is proper around these parts to address a priest.” I let a beat pass and before he could say anything for or against the statement, I added: “Now, I heard from Aonas, that you two were in some courses together. Is Professor Ponárri still an old bean counter?”

Seomrasuí House
Cuan, The Free Lands
March 20th, 2022




Tsubaki, well that was her name, who was she? For most she was the face of Aurora's Kitan, the closest thing to a luxury resort the islands had, but even then it was still just as beloved by locals as it was by foreigners. But outward appearances and that, don't always tell the whole story. Tsubaki, was born here in the Freelands, under the name Ceridwen in the year 1230 of the Common Era and it was her home for the first 150 years, unthinkable amount of time for a normal person but the blink of an eye for her kind, a Spiorad Ainmhithe. Well, to make a very long story short, she wandered the Freelands and then the world after being ran out of her home and found her way to what is now the UIS some hundreds of years back and has hardly left since. Well no more, now she was taking a long overdue vacation and well maybe it was finally time to return home again. The Freelands It wasn't exactly nostalgic being back, because well she hadn't been back in centuries. Needless to say it had changed considerably, from memory, well oh well, the whole world has changed. She can also remember a time when AHSCA wasn't AHSCA but a loose archipelago of islands, to an "Empire" of sorts, to a semi-confederation, to a war torn area to now, the strange Frankenstein mix of monarchism, republicanism, federalism and whatever else you might use to describe it.

Well anyway, somehow someway she managed to be invited to this party, chances are by a guest stayed that at the Kitan and was impressed. Well that was a good thing, she worked hard and her girls worked hard to make it a good place for people to stay. Honestly if you were to ask her, she was more in-tuned with the culture of AHSCA than of the place she was born. She wore a kimono daily, she practiced the religion, (she was even once a Temple Matron) Chances are, even her kinsmen wouldn't think of her as one of them, after all AHSCA was home to plenty of ordinary kemonomimi people, people who lived a rather normal lifecycle similar to that of any ordinary human. People with catlike, fox-like or other animal-like features. Her appearance was fox-like because why not, foxes are cute and clever little creatures.

Reading over the invitation with instructions, Tsubaki was invited to join specifically in the VIP lounge, well guess it was good to head their first, time for sightseeing around Cuan later. Had she ever been here? Mmmmm now it was a bit of a struggle to remember, after all cities come and go over the centuries, names get changed, locations even change because the way the Earth changes. Plus well as sharp as she was for her age, even she couldn't remember every little detail of the last seven centuries of life. Plus well, this was a vacation, time to kick back and be a tourist for a change instead of always being the one to serve the tourists. Well here she was, only a few others had arrived so far it seemed, well it was still early in the morning, some folks are early risers and others like to sleep in a while. Well that's good, plenty of time to talk.

Macha Taise, of Cork Descent.
People always assumed, that there was a sort-of sixth sense, which made Spiorad able to differ between their kind and 'normal' animal-eared folk. They were not wrong, there was something.
A Spiorad, a real, honest to the Gods, Old Spiorad had a certain way of movement about them, a certain detachment, a certain grace of ageless wisdom, which even the younger ones, like Elin, Branwen or even my own ward Nia, sometimes showed... for all her ara-ara-oneechan-ness and deranged madness on the tournament field, Elin was actually a good example.
She could be a flirty seductress one moment, a mad, rabid dog in the next, and after that have a detachment in her step, in her eyes, especially when she was alone, nursing a drink. One saw it in her eyes, the knowledge, that it all would be gone one day, turned to dust... the knowledge, but not the experience.
I had the experience and although, much like Branwen, I was known as an approachable Spriorad, as evidenced by my attending this party with Kean Iavala of the Tribe of Monaghan, the founder and boss of Forbróir Computing Limited, I still knew, that I sometimes had this air around me.
It had been Kean, who had noticed her.
He was right, something was off about her.
She was not animal-eared folk. Sure, she dressed like an AHSCAn, there were subtle differences to the style of dress of Okunarutsuru, but she...
...was she...?
I looked at Kean.
He let go of my hand, nodded. “I'll be alright.”, he said.
I gave him a quick peck onto the cheek, then was off, approaching the woman, who's name I did not yet know.
I said, without a preamble, speaking the Spiorad's old tongue Tafod: “You are like me, are you not?”

Gabriel J. Cui, CPA
Cuan, The Free Lands
March 20th, AD 2022
0733 Local Time

"Last I was here in the city was five years ago," Gabriel's father, Samuel Cui, began. "A lot has changed since then, I will admit."
"And the fact that VAI has a facility in Traverse isn't a giveaway?" Gabriel said. "I understand this is a vacation well-earned after that meeting of yours, Dad, but truth be told, the most I can say is that I would sooner defer to your experience here, mainly because I don't quite know the first thing about the Free Lands." Father and son were approaching Seomrasuí House as they walked, masks in place and a healthy distance between others maintained. They would approach the place, with Samuel pointing out his experiences to Gabriel, some of which were those he left out of his memoirs. While Samuel dressed conservatively--a black suit with a white shirt and blue tie--Gabriel had dispensed with a coat, preferring a crimson dress shirt unbuttoned at the top.

Gerald A. Vicente, MBA
Seomrasuí House, Cuan, The Free Lands
March 20th, AD 2022
0737 Local Time

There was something about Cuan that proved to be quite appealing to Gerald Vicente. Perhaps it was the liveliness of the event. Perhaps it was amazement at how such a demonstration of skill managed to draw in a considerable number of tourists. Or perhaps it was because he was enjoying it with one Amy Ramallae of the Tribe of Monaghan, a woman who, if one were to be an unrepentant romantic, stole his heart with a smile. Regardless, Cuan was indeed appealing to the man...and he liked it.

Jonathan Joseph B. Alquizola, MS (Accountancy), CPA, CFA
Seomrasuí House, Cuan, The Free Lands
March 20th, AD 2022
0743 Local Time

The VIP room of Seomrasuí House was a lively place, and the COO of Hong Long Investments knew it. A stint in Cuan was quite the vacation for Alquizola, though the idea of Hong Long expanding into the rest of the Strategic and Economic Alliance was not far from the 45-year-old's mind. Hong Long Investments may not be one of the Visayan Banking Trinity--that trinity was composed of Suico, Jimenez, and Du, the Bank of the Visayan Islands, and Dragonfire Securities--but it was a financial service powerhouse in its own right.
...and it seems he wasn't the only Visayan who thought a stint in Cuan was a good idea. He saw Samuel Cui and a younger man--most likely Gabriel, his son--enter the VIP lounge. From across his position, he could see Hiram Yabut bobbing his head to a tune, while he noticed Gerald Vicente and his Selkie girlfriend enjoying the buffet. He knew Yabut and Vicente from several months back, having been part of Yabut's party aboard the Mindoreño's yacht...which in turn was the product of Samuel Cui's company, he thought as the realization dawned on him.
It was at that moment that Alquizola realized that there was something more to the big names across the SEA and beyond gathering to celebrate in Cuan.

Hiram E. Yabut
Seomrasuí House, Cuan, The Free Lands
March 20th, AD 2022
0752 Local Time

There were many things to consider for Hiram Yabut, the founder and president of Solar Overdrive. Knowing that renewable energy was, as many environmentally-minded people were wont to call it, the future meant that the man whose solar farms were providing power both in his home province of Mindoro and beyond had no shortage of admirers. At thirty, the native of Calapan was among the Confederation's most eligible bachelors, and to his credit, he did have the looks and the energy to match.
The mask he wore may have concealed the grin, but one could see it in the eyes. Hiram was not only looking forward to the opportunity to network with others, but also to enjoy his time in Cuan.

The Cuis were not immediately approached – all the more chance for them to look and pick a bit.
There were, of course, Flynn Clipthóir and Nora Cathlong talking, always looking like they would appreciate someone from the Shipbuilding Industry joining them for a bit of shop-talking, the representatives of the Merchant Guild of Leuda, Celina Cumann, Faye Donn and Finnegan Scian, were available... outside of the box, there was Viola Dreach, always looking for a new opportunity for the hotel business of her family, and a bluenette, who looked a bit unsure about herself and her position here. And, aside from quite a few military people, many of the currently active roster of the Ambassador Groups were around.
Granted, quite a few crowded around a former Ambassador of the Selkie, Marla Faorach (formerly Cróimiam), who had a baby on her arm. The little bluenette was fascinated by Kendra Sciamhach's finger, while the two women talked a bit among each other, while the proud father was talking with the Veidhlíns, Berkant and Maive.
Liliane Lile stood a bit to the side.
There were quite a few possibilities.

Amy Ramallae of the Tribe of Monaghan.
Where the VAI-President and his son were not directly approached, Gerald Vicente was in the opposite situation: I had waited by the buffet, a nibble in hand, and awaited him... my boyfriend.
Squeeeeeee!
When I had told Enya Sáraigh, a friend of mine, this had been her reaction. She and her husband were here, too, with me at the buffet, chatting the time away until...
“Is that him?”, Enya suddenly asked.
I turned and looked and indeed, it was Gerald.
I turned back, took in air.
“Go.”, Enya said, “We'll save the two of you some nibbles.”
I flashed them a smile and went towards Gerald.
He was no stranger to my body. We literally met on a beach, me wearing a competitive one-piece (and, to his credit, his eyes had never gone below my shoulders), I slept in his bed every once in a while snuggled up to him, in a white, semi-translucent negligee. Today, I wore neither. Today, I wore Geansai, of course in Monaghan's colours.
I think it was the first time, that he saw me in Geansai.
I was not nervous. Nervous would imply, that I knew, that he would not find me attractive. I knew, that I could wear a burlap sack and he would still find me attractive, for he was not the kind of guy, who saw me only as a pretty woman or worse, a mere trophy or sex object. At the same time, I was but a woman and it felt good to be not only found attractive, but also to be desired.
There was a certain sway to my hips, which emphasized that, yes, one side of the skirt was way shorter then the other and it showed a lot of leg. As I stood before him, I smiled at him, my eyes on his, and went for it without a word.
Let's just say, that there was a lot of tongue involved.

Nolwenn Drochnós of the Tribe of Cavan.
Hong Long Investments – not the first bank I thought of, when I thought 'Visayan Bank', but then again, Drochnós Forestry Work wasn't the first company you think of, when you think of a landowning and forestry company. We were, however, very deep in the business, that means, my father is and was.
He had brought me here, too.
Mam was busy herding the Tines that were my brothers in the City, so it was up to me to accompany Dad during his time here. I had graduated High School last year, had started my studies of History, was now of 20 Springs.
Dad was considerably older, but a shrewd businessman.
And this was not a complete first to me, I attended Dad's business dinners since I was of 10 Springs. This scale was new, though.
And, among us, Alquizola looked cute.
Dad motioned for me to follow him and he made his way over. It was no secret, that Dad wanted to expand and for that, he needed money... and as that did not grow on trees, men like Alquizola were needed.

Prince Yngvi of Svartaland.
There was a certain image people had about the people of Granrade, the remote, volcanic island close to the polar circles. The cold land made colder men, tall, blonde, blue eyes wardrobes of men, sparse in words and sparser in gestures.
I was blonde and had blue eyes, but that was about it.
I was not tall, I was not built like a wardrobe and I was certainly not sparse in gestures or words. I was actually quite talkative, as Mister Lách, his lovely wife and their equally lovely daughter had found out. Now, I am not an expert on Selkie-Culture, but I thought, that I remembered reading somewhere something about the band she wore at her wrist, behind the furry ring.
In any case, they had bid their adieu after I had talked their ears off about Svartaland, the Black Land, one of the most geologically active regions of a country known for its volcanoes and hot springs. And it was the country, where the most profitable geothermic power plants were built.
No nuclear, no coal, no gas – lava power.
Of course, I knew Yabut. A shining star of the renewables in the Confederation.
A man not unlike myself, but in a different area. I grinned. Networking was one of the reasons why I was here, but also to have some fun – I got underway.

VIP-Lounge of Seomrasuí House, Cuan City. The Freelands. March 20th, 2022.

Happy are those who celebrate the world, that is likewise the case here in this fine city of Cuan in the Free Lands. It’s around this time of year, that many people take a spring holiday outside of the Grand Kingdom of Phibeta. Though, even though it is holiday season, work continues for many who wish to pursue it. Enter Mr. William Sutherland, the CEO of one of the most successful and oldest cosmetic brands in Phibeta and a few parts of Greater Dienstad, Soie Leisse. They have built on the success of moisturizer which they weren’t the first ones to do so, but they were the first to successfully mass-produce the stuff, and it sold like hotcake in the 1850s. Since that time, the company has expanded on manufacturing other cosmetic products and introduced its own brand of chocolates. They have grown from the commercial town of Appleby, to the rest of Phibeta, even being granted a royal warrant to provide cosmetics and chocolates for the royal family since 1923. The company continues to grow today, with stores overseas. But there is always a new market to be tapped, and that is certainly the case here and with others within high society. He has been invited to a festival it seems, and it was the perfect place to tap into the international market.

It was also here that artists of the stage will also be there, and it just so happens that a passing acquaintance (and one the receiving end of Sutherland’s generous patronage), Mr. Alexander Karinsky, the director of the Royal Weston Opera Company. His experience as a great artist, putting on great after great productions of operas old and new had earned him regional acclaim. He dares to push boundaries and sometimes creates controversies along the way. This year he wants to bring some international singers into his production, this year being “The Butcheress of Sauville”, an opera composed by Laura Jenkins after the Penensuila Wars of 1861 (where Phibeta claimed victory over an overreaching Abetton empire) that deals with heavy themes of slavery, cannibalism, all of which to make the butcheress (Queen Beatrix) look more evil than she was. This was at the prime of the Phibetan Empire and nationalistic fervor.

Times have changed, the empire might have fallen, but the music of the era still lives on, but only something not on the West end of Weston. But this year, Alexander Karinsky wanted to make a revival of this opera into new production. A lot of folks have been wondering why a new production of political propaganda.

“It’s very contemporary,” says Alexander.

“What are you talking about?” William asks as they stroll through the city of Cuan.

“People ask me, why the Bucheress of Sauville? I’ll tell you. It speaks to our present values. We are doomed to repeat history if we do not learn from it. Only through art can we remember the past, the atrocities, and our humanity. Art is the way we think”.

“How interesting”. The two gentlemen continued to walk down the street.

“Thanks for letting me come along with you William”.

“It’s no problem Mr. Karinsky. Your company always purchases our products for your productions, and my company is a generous patron of the Royal Weston Opera. It’s only fair”.

“Indeed. I always wanted to see what other performers would think of the opera, and perhaps they would come to Weston to audition. I want this thing to be very special. It’s the first production of this opera in the West End since the 1960s”.

“Sounds like an interesting proposition. So that is the reason you are carrying those informational flyers” William replies pointing at the flyers in Alexander’s hands. Information including the title of the opera, the production dates, and contact information toward Alexander Karinsky.

“I’m hoping to hand it out to a few prospecting musicians and performers. As well as posting these all over town when I get the chance”.

“I see. Makes sense”.

“I’m telling you, this is going to be big”. They continue to walk through the lovely city until they reached to where they were attending. The VIP-Lounge of Seomrasuí House. Many peoples of high society is to gather here. A good place to promote William’s cosmetics, and to promote Alexander’s opera production. They both enter the lounge and go to the receptionist. William presents to the receptionist their RSVPs.

“Hello” he states, while showing the RSVPs. “We understand this is the lounge. I am William Sutherland of Soie Leisse. And this man here is Alexander Karinsky of the Royal Weston Opera Company”.

The receptionist was a Selkie-Handmaiden, a young woman in a long, blue dress, a simple piece without much decoration. The Handmaiden smiled and nodded – she knew, for them to be here, they were clear. Otherwise, the guards at the entrance to the compound wouldn't have let them through.
“Indeed it is, Sirs.”, she said and motioned to the door, “The buffet is along the center of the room. The Tournament for the Cuan City Trophy will start in a few hours, for the Youth Trophy in a few more.” She smiled. “Have fun!”
And with that, here eyes fell onto the flyers.
She seemed to struggle for a moment, with herself and her orders, then decided: “Sir, would you terribly mind leaving one of those with me?”, she asked, almost timidly, “I am fascinated by opera and... well, it does get boring out here.”
Another Handmaiden, this one a bit further down the hallway and carrying a tray of something or the other, threw her colleague a pitying smile before disappearing into the lounge.

Sajuna Inui and Kirara Kuno, a couple of hard rocking girls from Katase, and their straight laced manager, Sakura Kagamihara. In a sense a mother to both girls, in another sense like a school teacher to them both.

Sajuna and Kirara have been friends since starting middle school, hard as it is to believe, Sajuna is normally pretty shy compared to Kirara who is very extroverted and outgoing but the two clicked when they became the only two members of their school's music club. Sajuna a bass player and Kirara, a guitar player. Rock music, punk rock, a little bit of metal, they really covered the spectrum of the heavy rock genre with a little bit of pop in because well guess a couple of girls who enjoy the fluffy sides of life can't help themselves. Perhaps that's what made their music so appealing they managed a record deal before they were even high schoolers, speaking of they are know. It took a lot of wheeling and dealing to get their parents to agree for them to miss a few days of school for this. Infant Alloy was their band name, why because why not? What's another word for metal? Alloy, are they infants? Well no, they're just young. Maybe Adolescence Alloy would have been better? Has a nice ring, but a little late for that. "My heart pounds a mile a second..." Sajuna muttered twirling a pen in her fingers sitting in the back of a car on their way over to this party they were set to attend. Well at least it wasn't uber formal, they got to dress how they always dress, cute clothes, plenty of piercings because they're rebellious teenagers (well at least that's the image).

"Sa-chan thinking up some new lyrics?" Kirara asked resting her head against Sajuna's shoulder. "Mhmmmmmmmm" Sajuna just gave a long moan "I'm trying but I just can't get it with the rhythm I'm thinking of."

"Well write them out and I can always give it a shot." Both girls tag teamed writing songs between lyrics and melodies. "Don't think so much about it right now, we got plenty of time to come up with some new songs."

Their manager sighed "You always say that, Kuno-san but you end up putting it off to the last minute."

"Saku-chan, relaaax" Kirara took the spining pen and free hand of Sajuna to hold.

"We always come through right?"

"Perhaps but I fear the day when you don't."

Kirara sighed "I've been thinking up some lyrics too. I got a sick riff melody. Just a shame our flight was so boring and ordinary, I was hoping for some turbulence to shake up the words out of my head."

Sakura just sighed again these two were a handful indeed, especially Kirara "I think you just wanted to see me at my worst."

"Ah I've seen you at your worst, Manager. Trust me, it's scary."

"Ki-chaaan" Sajuna giggled nervously "Don't push her buttons."

"Thank you, Inui-san. Meantime you two, I think I cleared it with all needed you two should be able to play today."

"I would hope so, hate to think we dragged our instruments along for nothing." Kirara sighed

"I just hope I don't make a fool of myself trying to make small talk." Sajuna said.

"Ah don't worry Sa-chan. The moment you put a bass in your hands you like totally transform into another person. Just hang onto your bass the entire time"

"It might be a bit difficult, I don't know how big the space we'll be in, carrying your instruments all through the party might be cumbersome and trouble for everyone." She smiled, rare for the usually stoic woman. "Sajuna" ooh first names, that's how you know she's being frank. "Try a few tricks that I learned to get over my fears about public speaking. " She gave a pretty good list of tips, cathartic breathing, imagining people like they were her close family or other friends, "And remember you are you. You are a success already. No need to feel embarrassed if you stumble or anything just remember you made it this far. And do what you do on stage."

Their transportation came to a stop, they were here at last. A few minutes to get situated, the driver compensated and any instructions of being picked up when called and anything else. The girls had their instruments strapped in their cases and propped on their backs. "Farewell mortal driver" Kirara joked

"Ki-chan, let's not freak out the locals."

"All right we're settled." Sakura said adjusting her suit jacket "Let's head inside."

And now we're here in the VIP room. "ooh fancy digs!" Kirara said with her free hand she pulled out her phone to snap pictures and take a selfie with her and her gal pal. With her good eye, Sajuna took a look around the room, a few people were here already but it wasn't super crowded yet. One person caught Sajuna's eyes, it was the tall beautiful wait, a fox woman? Like the old legends of Katase spoke of? Wait there was a country nearby to Katase, a few days by sea even that was full of their kind, of course. "She really is pretty" she thought, lest she make Kirara jelous, well Ki-chan the only girl for her. "mmm Ki-chan...."

"Just be easy, Sa-chan. Remember everyone here just wants to party like us."

"You're right, I'm being silly."

"Ah just being you. Just be careful, it gets crowded you might bump into a lot of people." Sajuna was actually partly blind, her right eye to be exact which is partly why she wore an eye patch. It wasn't needed but it completed her ensemble.

"Well..." Sajuna giggled "Maybe that will be a good ice breaker huh?"

Alaina Raméis of the Tribe of Cavan.
It might surprise the two young ladies of the surprisingly young binary alloy, as well as their managers, but they did have fans in the Free Lands, even within the Lounge already. Granted, their fandom was rather young and it had less to do with their music and more with who they were: School-Musicians.
As such, it came as little surprise, that the three girls of Gabhála, Eithne, Ida and Tea, who usually played Selkie-Rock, either fused with Selkie-Jazz or of the Soft-Rock Variant, were quite interested in meeting their fellow school-musicians. I was here as supervisor of their band by the school, as all three were still attending the Iris Boarding School Complex and while they had signed their first record deal last year, the Iris still held a lot of sway over them.
Not to mention their parents...
...but that aside, when the two and their manager entered, Eithne spotted them first. As their singer and keyboardist, the brunette had a sort-of leadership role, and as such, she turned to her two compatriots, Ida the Guitarist and Tea the Bassist. I stood to the side and watched.
“Play it cool, girls.”, she said, instructed, her bandmembers. “They are not Disréad, but they are cool. But we are, too. So...”
“...play it cool.”, Tea said with a nod and a smile.
Eithne nodded and took a steadying breath, then turned and led them towards Infant Alloy.
I must admit, although not understanding a word, their music was quite catchy. Of course, I would always be biased towards the bands I took care of, but they were not bad. I was sure, that whoever taught them was proud of themselves.
“Hi.”, Eithne greeted the three, “I'm Eithne, those are Ida and Tea. We're Gabhála.”
I smiled and gave a wink to Miss Kagamihara – let them get it out of their systems.

Unbeknownst to us, their driver was more bemused by the three then freaked out.

VIP-Lounge of Seomrasuí House, Cuan City, Selkie Freelands

Ranging from a musical artist to a band of company officers, adolescents to adults, casual to formal wear, and black and white to pink hair (peculiar, yes), this varying collection would perhaps be a sign of their idiosyncratic opulence.

Alongside, many had their reasons for heading to this city of exotic quality. Most wanted a break from their effort-staking lives, but there were a couple who were there for potential connections.

Nevertheless, this was also a chance to explore with delight, to revel in a unique environment of a foreign land like a daydream. Entering the threshold of their designated lounge of the House after verification, enchantment and excitement permeated their minds and hearts. There were many guests and other individuals, a forest that would leave them lost when mesmerized. And already, one of them, a rather lavishly-dressed blonde-haired young adult that spells enthusiasm, had her eyes brighten like a light bulb switched on.

"What a crowd," chortled an elderly man who still gleams strength despite his age.

A bespectacled man younger than him sighed and adjusted his glasses, as if shooing his nervousness to hide upfront.

"Well, everyone. Feel free to mingle," he adjured, expected of one who organized the trip.

The group then dispersed into smaller groups, all either seeking a conversation from those that piqued their beguilement, or talk among themselves and render the former as a prospect.

The Pergamonians were quickly swallowed whole by the crowd, if they let the crowd do so – Dimi especially would find enough part-time and full-time horsemen and horsewomen of high renown in the crowd. Atif Qalb, the tall Kyrenaian overlooking the proceedings like a lighthouse overlooked a bay, for example, or the red head of Princess Rena, who could not compete due to an acute case of broken leg. Despite rumours of her and Princess Nela enjoying each other's company more then it might be proper, though, the two were just close friends.
Her brother, meanwhile, would find enough opportunities to hone his flirting skills, if he so chose.
Efrosyni might spot Naya Heeser, heiress of the Heeser Brewery of Ridderli – while not a local either, she, too, while here with friends, was free and more importantly, she was planning on a big sampling tour, too. Granted, she would start with the non-alcoholic beverages once she got to it, but that was the same difference to her.
Stamatios, while on a vacation, would be hard pressed to not spot several of his colleagues – while the Faorach-Family was at the center of attention for the majority, there was still the Kyrenaian Minister of Foreign Affairs and his wife. If that meant, that he would make a big avoidance or approach him head on was for him to decide, but if he chose the former, he had enough options around the room to suit his interests, whatever they might be.
Neofytos, meanwhile, might be able to spot Finnegan Scríbhneoir of the Tribe of Cork – while much of a giant like Mister Qalb was, Scríbhneoir was also one of the two huge, internationally known names of contemporary Selkie Literature (the other, Branwen Blaidd, was currently preparing for the River's Crossing Trophy).
In short, there were many opportunities for everyone to strike up a conversation.

"So, this is that place that she's sort of talking about", muttered Victoria to herself as her two feet carried her to the front of Seomrasuí House. While it was not exactly the beach that her younger sister, Alexandra was talking about, it nevertheless ultimately led her to this new, foreign place, whose people Victoria herself is largely unfamiliar with, and where her very own younger sister had a time of her own a couple of years or so before. Outfitted in a simple white pantsuit, an outfit reminiscent of the fashion style associated with the late legendary actress, Katharine Hepburn, and with a clear expression of overwhelming curiosity on her face, Victoria's own adventure in this much foreign land has begun.

After swiftly securing her access into the VIP section, Victoria was subsequently caught a little off-guard by the number of guests present around her, all of whom she could not even put a face or a name to in a jitter. Nonetheless, such a scene would not be the one to stop her from being here, as she began cautiously making her way around the many people around her, hoping to strike a conversation with someone out of pure randomness. In the right pocket of her pants lies a small-sized notebook or the sort, while on the left pocket, otherwise lies her personal smartphone. A black pen, which perhaps, is best used alongside the notebook is safely clipped onto her outfit from underneath the left collar of her pantsuit.

Rieka, Waldburgfrau von Lattenzaun.
The woman with the pantsuit struck me as a bit of an oddity around here – sure, she was dressed for the occasion, but she did not look like she was purely here for a bit of fun and relaxation and not even for the permanent Networking such parties usually entailed.
Quite on the contrary, she seemed to be out for... something.
Well, weren't we all?
And while the shortest and youngest of Mórbhileog averted his gaze in the distance (I only know them because the daughter of a very good friend crushed on them), I decided to find out, what she was after.
Approaching her, and dressed in my favourite, open-hearted dress, I smiled.
“Enjoying the party?”, I asked with a smile and took two glasses, water, from a passing Kyrenaian Handmaiden.

"They'll let anyone in here these days," Val Teissedre said with a grin and a firm handshake. "What are you doing in the land the Industrial Revolution forgot, Sev?"

The tall guy in the white suit and black shirt & tie with the almost-mullet smiled, intricate tattoos just barely visible past his collar. "Needed a vacation and this came up at the right time. You?"

"Marti wanted to get away from it all and I figured it'd be a good networking opportunity." Typical Val, Severin Gunnarsson thought. Even when she was on vacation she was playing 4-D corporate chess. "And I've got something of a friend here, Mona Colaícht- probably butchered the pronunciation of her last name but oh well, who's in the aircraft business. Last saw her at a diplomatic event in Nifon so we'll have some catching up to do if she's here."

Severin raised an eyebrow. "That bunch of Christian loons?"

"Hey, I'm as confused as to why they invited me as you are. Shall we?"

The three of them formed a somewhat unusual little group as they entered Seomrasuí House, with the willowy Val in her trademark girlboss suit, her decidedly curvier wife Martina in a peacock blue dress & dove-grey blazer, and the industrial musician bringing up the rear built like the proverbial brick shithouse and looking like he belonged more in a Miami Beach nightclub than Cuan. No time like the present to start mingling, was there?

Morgane Colaícht of the Tribe of Sligo.
Much like quite a few other people, the trio entering was intercepted upon entering – this time, however, it was my Mam, with me in tow.
Severin Gunnarsson's, or rather Ghost's, music was not my kind, to be honest, but a friend liked his style, so I knew, who he was. And I knew, who my mother was approaching: Val Teissedre and, by extension, her wife Martina.
Mam was quite starstruck when she came home from Niffieland, having met the Val Teissedre, much to Mom's and my amusement. If nothing more interesting had come from that wasted trip, it was that. Hopefully, the trip to here would be more fruitful for the Teissedres and us, or rather Mam's and Mom's company (and, in due time, mine).
“Good morning, Val!”, Mam greeted, a bit nervous as she bowed her head politely.
She wore Geansai in Sligo's colours, while I had opted for a Zaijian Dress in dark green – no offence to the venerable Geansai, but I lacked two things to pull that one off effectively.
“You must be Martina.”, Mam greeted the other woman with a smile and a polite bow, “It's a pleasure. If I may introduce, my daughter, Morgane.”
“Hi, there!”, I greeted with a friendly wave and a grin.
Mam took the lack of formality in stride while I threw Severin a wink. My style of music or not, he was... not not cute. Besides, his moment would come sooner rather then later, once the formalities were out of the way.

"So... do you remember her name?"
"Amy... Eiffel? I think?"
"Eiffel? Like the tower?"
"Like the what?"

Two young women stood at the entrance to the Seomrasuí House in Cuan, following a loose, scribbled map they had jotted down as well as awkwardly asking for directions from the locals. While both of them had visited the Free Lands not too long ago, neither had been to Cuan. They arrived at the establishment just a moment ago, not entirely sure if they were at the right place.

"You dragged us all the way out here to meet someone you don't even remember the name of? Are you sure you didn't want to just get out of Aaaaaa?"
"Why do you ask that like you didn't want out as well?"
"Noeanyyn... I... ugh."
The shorter girl slumped her shoulders and looked down. "It's not that. I just... I just feel like these trips we have, it's just us running away from our problems."
"What problems? Aaaaaa? Aaaaaa isn't a fucking problem anymore, Meausa. Aaaaaa is dead!" Noeanyyn snapped back. "The less time we spend there, the better."

Technically, she isn't wrong. Aaaaaa, Noeanyyn and Meausa's former country, has been under a violent public uprising since the early beginnings of the COVID-19 outbreak. The Aaaaaan Government can barely be defined as existing anymore, and the countries former colonizers, the pseudo-soviet state Aurnvon and the bureaucracy-infested Lievue have once again invaded the farming nation in an attempt to stop the virus, which had been particularly deadly in Aaaaaa. Now, with Aurnvon and Lievue threatening eachother for power in the region, only time will tell if Aaaaaa becomes a battlefield.

"Noean, don't say that... you've just got to have faith. Everything's going to be alright back home." Meausa responded meekly, not even believing it herself. She turned her attention back towards the entrance to the building. "Well... regardless, we're here now, so... let's not be so depressing right?"
"...Sure."

The duo opened the doors to the Seomrasuí House and stepped inside. As they entered the lobby, they could immediately tell that, whatever was happening here, they were severely underdressed for it. Every guest they saw was immaculately dressed and looked fully prepared for some fine dining and upper-class mingling. Meausa's apparel (a pair of jeans and a brown turtleneck sweater) didn't remotely fit the occasion, and Noeanyyn's (another pair of jeans, and a hand-me-down letterman jacket that was older than her) was even worse.

"I have a feeling we went to the wrong building." Meausa whispered.
"What makes you think that?" She could feel the biting sarcasm. "We look like... Aaaaaans."

After noticing the bickering near the entrance Anastasja would recognise those two anywhere, she walked up to her friends she had not seen in ages and waived to the pair.

“Zdravo, Meausa, Noeanyyn. I’m glad to see you two here, I was worried I might have been out of place. I hope all has been well with you two? Let’s us go find a spot, drinks are on me.”

It might take a moment for the group to realize that, but once they were at the drinks section of the buffet or, a bit aside from that at the Bar, the drinks were already paid for. Not only their drinks, one should add, but all drinks.
The Cult of Lodan Lir had spared no expense with the drinks either, from Selkie-Whiskey and ales to non-alcoholic beverages ranging from a simple water to fruit juices to teas, the finest of the finest had been made available.

---

Mhairi Uasal of the Tribe of Fermanagh.
I smiled into the round around me, listening to Professor Eagrasi explain something or the other to Fiona Clipthóir. The brunette of eighteen Springs has been dragged along by her Father, who was talking shipbuilding with Nora Cathlong a few metres away, while the Economic History Professor of the UoF and Cuan Native related us with stories about this very city.
Fi was from Shella, I was from Riverwood and it was interesting to hear the three thousand little stories a native could tell about every nook and cranny of their home city, was fun, too. We could do it with our cities as well, though, granted, Fi could best do it with the Iris Boarding School Complex.
Still... the old Professor was still only human and considering, that a young, attractive brunette and a more mature, but equally good-looking silverhead, both dressed in Geansai, were listening to him might have led the old Professor to embellish some of the stories he was telling a bit, unlike what a Historian should do.
We dutifully chuckled, when the Professor came to the climax of his current story, about a ferryman, who tricked an attacking raiding party into believing, that his boat was some sort of Early Dark Age Battleship, when I spotted a familiar face.
“If you would excuse me, please?”, I told my conversation partners, “There's someone I need to say hello to.”
“Of course, Miss Uasal.”, the old Professor said with a smile under his Mighty Beard of Mightiness, “I am sure, that Miss Clipthóir is not in a hurry.”
The brunette considered for a moment. “Under one condition.”, she said and the man nodded, “I get to tell a story or two about the Iris as well.”
The Professor nodded with a smile and I left the two to their storytelling before approaching the mingling woman.
Amy Eitpheil of the Tribe of Cavan was one of those odd acquaintance one made by chance and, as it would later turn out, luck. The young agronomist was here with her Professor, officially, but unofficially, she had invited a few well-off friends from abroad, who she had gotten to know from a student exchange. She and her partner were talking with General Taoiseach, well, the Professor and the General were talking, but both Milady Ida and Amy were silent.
It was weird to see the vibrant blonde so silent and... well-behaved.
I cleared my throat, the group, including the eyepatched officer and the wild-haired Professor, turning to me. It was as if Amy's face began to shine like a second sun.
“My apologies, Ladies and Gentlemen, but would you terribly mind, if I were to kidnap Miss Eitpheil for a moment?”, I asked with a smile.
“Of course not, Miss Uasal.”, the General said and nodded to Amy. “Miss Eitpheil, it was a pleasure.”
“The pleasure was mine, Sir.”, she responded politely, then almost dragged me away. “Thank the Gods, Mhairi...”, she moaned once we were out of earshot. “...battlefield plants.”
“Ouch...”, I replied, she rolled her eyes, “Then allow me to bring you a nicer topic... video shooting – you and your friends are still up for it?”
“Absolutely!”, she replied with joy and we began to talk shop.

[Danceria]

Raidri Uinér of the Tribe of Laois.
Indeed, someone bumped into me – a turn saw me face to face with someone, who was putting on a stoic face and apologizing, introducing himself as Theomer Arling.
Blonde, blue eyed, awfully young-looking, but who was I to talk? He also looked suitably athletic. Indeed, Aonas had spoken of him, with begrudging respect for his bravery. Not many men went after a Spiorad and although Branwen was among the more approachable ones of their kind, she still was one of the Eternal Ones.
Now, however, these thoughts were pushed at the back of my head, a smile breaking out.
“No problem, Mister Arling.”, I decided to use his last name, “But please, young man... just call me Raidri. Or, if you insist, Milord Raidri, as it is proper around these parts to address a priest.” I let a beat pass and before he could say anything for or against the statement, I added: “Now, I heard from Aonas, that you two were in some courses together. Is Professor Ponárri still an old bean counter?”

Uinér the Elder certainly begat his son's gregariousness, that much was obvious to Theomer. Just as it was obvious that the stormy thoughts the man was dealing with were at his forefront-something to be expected, if Aonas spoke sooth about the Rohirrim's personality.

Theomer didn't particularly feel brave when speaking with either of the Blaidd siblings-quite the opposite! Being brave meant being afraid of something and having to do it anyways, with Branwen he...he was relaxed. For the first time in how long, he could just be himself, freed of the burdens and expectations of kingship. He wasn't Theomer, the Disputing Prince, he wasn't Theomer the good Christian elder brother of a family of five-and a small horde of cousins and god-siblings. He was Theo, Theo the marach club member, wryly keeping aloof of regional team politics, wagering and cheering on athletes by merit and teams by cohesion. Theo, the lad who was born in the saddle, spoke frankly, and meticulously combed over stories, plot points, and semantics with Branny. He'd be dead and damned before he'd see another "starship soap" that clogged the recent selection of Dancerian sci-fi novels. He was even Theo, the man who had a "friend" who was plying his hand at prose-in a bit of a sci-fi setting for Branwen's perusal.

He didn't pretend that he had fooled the Spirioad in the slightest, and when Elinn did confront him, he spoke bluntly-he wasn't going to critique someone's work without providing some of his own-and being critiqued in kind.

"Professor Ponárri," Theomer began with a faint ghost of a smile, "Will be happy that the Steward of this House thinks so highly of him. He is well, and meticulous, shearing sprouts-a bean counter par excellence. No doubt needed for those attending the class."

It was this next part that required a bit of bravery, something that twisted in his throat and caused his heart to protest-even at the eleventh hour.
"Do you know, Milord Raidri," He ventured. "Is the Venerable Master Blaidd, of Tralee Descent, present? Failing that, the Good Mistress Blaidd?"

A peculiarity of Danceria, nobody was simply "John Smith". Everyone had a name-four if you were devotedly Sindarin. Theomer felt that it'd be unbecoming of a man such as Llwyd-both in age and skill, to be referred as a mere "mister".

[Abetton]

The Cressidas...That sounds like the title to a bad sitcom...

They were a tad late but not by much. It took a while for the ladies to really prepare themselves, Arthur Cressida, a young go-getter Parliamentarian in Abetton's House of Delegates, the lower chamber, his wife, Catiana an accomplished ballet dancer, between shows at the moment with the Royal Sauville Theater and the least of all, young Lady Amarilla Cressida, of the House of Cressida, the Ducal family of Lillah Provence in Abetton, otherwise unremarkable compared to her three elder siblings. The runt of the litter, determined to prove herself. Not expected to take her Family's Domain, that honor will go to her eldest brother, Xavier would do that, Arthur will likely do amazing things while in Parliament, and her sister, Annalise is already a Minister of their Provence. She had a huge crush on the country's Prince and future king, Linely in the meantime, would that ever amount to much, only time would tell.

Entering the VIP room, "Oooh would you look at this, looks like plenty of people have already arrived" Catiana said with a smile.

"I was afraid it'd get crowded. In a party networking is everything, later you are the harder it is to get into the clique." Arthur said

"Arty, relax, darling. It's a party, not a high school lunch hall. But maybe scout out some cuties for you, Ama."

"Ehehehe" Amarilla giggled a bit embarrassed, she was at least close with her sister-in-law and brother Arthur. Catiana, she meant well obviously but for Amarilla her eyes were set firmly on Linely.

"I guess," Amarilla said to humor her, "You never know who I might find but oh my--It's Infant Alloy over there!" She whispered

"That group you like?" Arthur asked. With Abetton being right next to Katase, no surprise they'd have a following in both countries, even among Abetton's nobility. "Why not get an autograph."

"Mmm perhaps in a bit, looks like they're a bit busy. Hate to interrupt." She'd find time to get to them later. Hard to imagine a cute seemingly upstanding young lady as Amarilla would like a heavy rock group but hey.

"don't wait too long, you never know when the chance might slip you by." Catiana encouraged

"Of course of course, But it'd be rude to interrupt so I just got to wait." Her stomach rumbled. "oh guess that's my stomach telling me time to go eat." She excused herself from the company of her brother and sister-in-law to help herself to some of the delectables .

"Cat, I'm really sorry"

"Huh, about what?"

"Dragging Ama along. I guess you had hoped for a romantic getaway given you just finished your latest performance"

"Aww I like Ama, I like having her around. Besides she's a young girl, she'll probably want to go off on her own at some point so we'll have plenty of time to get uuuh well you know." She leaned in whispering something giving him a gentle kiss.

[Hanoverian Great Britain]

While in the midst of scouring through the crowd, Victoria, the pantsuit-wearing princess was suddenly approached by a young woman whom, to her surprise, seemed to have her hair coloured in green, something that was mostly an oddity back in her place. Nonetheless, at least someone has finally come to strike a conversation with her. "Oh, yes, I am, really", she replied simply. "So, I assume that you're one of the many guests here, yes? It's nice to meet you, dear, I'm Victoria Cattrall", she subsequently exclaims, while promptly extending one hand for a handshake. At the same time, having noticed the two glasses taken by the woman, she politely offered to take one for herself. Perhaps, the drink here too could be something quite interesting that she might later come to enjoy.

[Phibeta]

The receptionist was a Selkie-Handmaiden, a young woman in a long, blue dress, a simple piece without much decoration. The Handmaiden smiled and nodded – she knew, for them to be here, they were clear. Otherwise, the guards at the entrance to the compound wouldn't have let them through.
“Indeed it is, Sirs.”, she said and motioned to the door, “The buffet is along the center of the room. The Tournament for the Cuan City Trophy will start in a few hours, for the Youth Trophy in a few more.” She smiled. “Have fun!”
And with that, here eyes fell onto the flyers.
She seemed to struggle for a moment, with herself and her orders, then decided: “Sir, would you terribly mind leaving one of those with me?”, she asked, almost timidly, “I am fascinated by opera and... well, it does get boring out here.”
Another Handmaiden, this one a bit further down the hallway and carrying a tray of something or the other, threw her colleague a pitying smile before disappearing into the lounge.

“Excellent,” William replies having been told of the events being held today. “I think we will enjoy ourselves then. Won’t we Alex?”

“Indubitably. Besides, I could go for some luncheon”. Before leaving it would seem that the Selkie-Handmaiden had her eyes on the flyers and asked about them. Alex was more than happy to provide.

“Of course ma’am” he says, handing a couple of flyers. “I am thrilled to meet another fan of opera productions, and let me tell you this opera we are producing is one of the most interesting in Phibetan history. “The Butcheress of Sauville” we call it. A great look into a time when Phibeta was a great empire, having just won a war a few years before this opera was written. If you want, I can give you a couple of these flyers, tell any performer friends or this entire town about this audition”.

The Royal Weston Opera Company is holding

Auditions

for this season’s production of Laura Jenkins’

The Butcheress of Sauville

Audition Dates: April 10 - April 20

Join us for this seldomly performed production of tragedy, horror, humanity and hope. Set in the capital of Abetton, Sauville, which in that time had lost a war against Phibeta and Katase. We seek actors, singers, and dancers to bring history to life through the power of music.

For more information, call or text Mr. Alexander Karinsky, +33 (00) 29 - 29383

[Polish Prussian Commonwealth]

Dana Vyterska - Erika Byrnes
Seomrasuí House, Cuan, Free Lands of the Selkie.

Two girls, alike in standing -- but of utterly opposed temperments -- approached the lounge, though they did not enter yet.

The elder of the two, perhaps in her mid-twenties, was a beautiful woman with long, pale hair and a well-tailored dress that showed a bit of her chest. She wore a genial smile as she leaned against the wall, crossing her long legs as she did so. This was Dana Vyterska -- arms-dealer, heiress to the Bronislaw Armaments and Strategic Engineering Development Corporation(BASED Corp, or BASED Inc), and, occasionally, a socialite.

Besides her, sitting on the floor, was a teenaged, blonde girl in a grey field-uniform and spit-shined calf-length leather boots. By her side was a guitar-case, and as she waited, she drummed her hands lightly on it. An emerald brooch lay on her neck, and an ancient sword-bayonet hung from her belt, but besides those two items, there was no other indication of wealth. In fact, she looked like she belonged more in some greyed-out, worn photo from some long-gone conflict than in a modern-day gathering of society's cream of the crop. This discrepancy was not helped by her eyes - the dull, green orbs stared at the other guests -- businessmen, celebreties, and worst of all, nobles -- with an expression somewhere between sullen disgust and hostility of the 'if I could I would bury my knife in your neck right now' sort. This was Erika Elurion-Byrnes. Princess Elurion-Byrnes, on the rare occasions she tried to pull rank.

Both stood watch, waiting for something, or someone. And that someone's name was Anwen Nathalaur.

[Scornerse]

Llaslla Huamán entered the lounge in her March Equinox Robe. In her home country of Scornerse, being below the equator, today marked the beginning of fall, rather than spring, hence the her robes's autumn colours, despite here being at a spring themed event. She didn't feel particularly out if place in it, however, as it was still just as vibrant as any other attire as she could see in the lounge, at worst it'd be a conversation starter at least.

Another possible conversation starter was despite the fact her dress revealed very little skin, calling it modest would be somewhat I accurate. At her waist, her attire was skin tight with black fabric, framed gold rim below her bust and a red ribbon on her hips, her abdominal muscles highlighted.

It was a large part of why she liked the dress, as a younger girl her exceptionally pale skin, platinum blonde hair and heterochromic eyes would often be cruelly used to taunt her as weird and sickly. Being visibly toned tended to do away with the latter accusations, and it also indicated a risk to one's person to call her weird. The more courageous taunters, though, would shift to calling her vampiric, something she sincerely saw as almost a compliment, but that she wouldn't use it as a causus pugnare.

Of the things Llaslla was, fiercely competitive, and appreciative of competition, was certainly one thing It's part of why she was happy to take the trip to Cuan city for the days events. Seeing others compete was second only to competing to herself, so a trip here as a brand ambassador was an assignment she was happy to take up. Being a good member of the Scornersean professional strata, she knew her way around a horse, though she had a clear preference for jousting over horse archery.

That didn't, however mean that she wasn't up to betting on the events. In all likelihood that would be her only output for any sort of competition here. If the thorough security at the lounge was any indication, she probably wouldn't be facing up any guests. Not that she should be, if she could, she was there to represent QRP Military Vehicles, and it was generally not advisable to go around hitting potential clients or people who might know potential clients, whether not one could avoid any more trouble. Positive interactions were paramount l to good business, obviously.

To that effect, she was mostly observing the guests of the lounge, keeping an approachable smile on her face.

[New Visayan Islands]

Gabriel Cui
Seomrasuí House

"Try not to get into anything I wouldn't do," Samuel said as Gabriel left him to talk shop with the representatives of the Merchant Guild of Leuda.
"You know me, Dad," Gabriel said in a tone that displayed levity. "I won't be raising hell, not if I can help it," he added.
After father and son separated, there were quite a few circles for Gabriel to find for himself. Starting with the bar was not a bad idea for the 25-year-old accountant from Abellana, Baguio, and Castillo, and perhaps he would find some interesting characters to get acquainted with, even if he felt it too early for alcohol.
As soon as he made it to the bar, he asked for the menu; he was in the mood for a good cup of tea, and there was something about Selkie teas that appealed to him ever since his father returned from his first trip to Cuan.

Gerald Vicente
Seomrasuí House

Gerald met Amy, kissing her as soon as they arrived. There was a romance to the kiss, and that romance was pretty obvious to those who knew either of the two. More to the point, they have shared the same bed from time to time.
"It suits you perfectly," Gerald said, a smile in his face. Geansai was not exactly something he expected to see her in, but a part of him knew that seeing her in the raiments of the Selkie was inevitable. The red-and-white of the Monaghan was something he familiarized himself with, but it was one thing to learn about her tribe's colors, and another to see her donning the same.

Jonathan Joseph Alquizola
Seomrasuí House

There was something about investment banking that attracted people aiming for mutual financial gain, and as Hong Long's Chief Operating Officer, Alquizola found no shortage of people interested in making business opportunities. Noticing the man behind Drochnós Forestry Work, Raidri Drochnós of the Tribe of Cavan, accompanied by someone he suspected was his daughter, he mentally filed Drochnós père as one such person...and his professional side was excited at the opportunity to establish a working relationship beyond the Confederation.
So excited, in fact, that as soon as the two were close enough, it was Alquizola who introduced himself.
"Jonathan Joseph Alquizola," he began, "COO, Hong Long Investments. Raidri Drochnós of the Tribe of Cavan, I presume?"

[Danceria]

Dana Vyterska - Erika Byrnes
Seomrasuí House, Cuan, Free Lands of the Selkie.

Two girls, alike in standing -- but of utterly opposed temperments -- approached the lounge, though they did not enter yet.

The elder of the two, perhaps in her mid-twenties, was a beautiful woman with long, pale hair and a well-tailored dress that showed a bit of her chest. She wore a genial smile as she leaned against the wall, crossing her long legs as she did so. This was Dana Vyterska -- arms-dealer, heiress to the Bronislaw Armaments and Strategic Engineering Development Corporation(BASED Corp, or BASED Inc), and, occasionally, a socialite.

Besides her, sitting on the floor, was a teenaged, blonde girl in a grey field-uniform and spit-shined calf-length leather boots. By her side was a guitar-case, and as she waited, she drummed her hands lightly on it. An emerald brooch lay on her neck, and an ancient sword-bayonet hung from her belt, but besides those two items, there was no other indication of wealth. In fact, she looked like she belonged more in some greyed-out, worn photo from some long-gone conflict than in a modern-day gathering of society's cream of the crop. This discrepancy was not helped by her eyes - the dull, green orbs stared at the other guests -- businessmen, celebreties, and worst of all, nobles -- with an expression somewhere between sullen disgust and hostility of the 'if I could I would bury my knife in your neck right now' sort. This was Erika Elurion-Byrnes. Princess Elurion-Byrnes, on the rare occasions she tried to pull rank.

Both stood watch, waiting for something, or someone. And that someone's name was Anwen Nathalaur.

Anwen Nathalaur
Seomrasuí House, Cuan, Free Lands of the Selkie.

---

She arrived fashionably late, her tail and ears twitching in atypical nervousness. She smelled-at least to the Spiroiad who could smell-quite different than their peers and vice versa. She in fact was of the Miqo'te, one of the dozen sapient species dwelling in the vast continent that Danceria reigned over-and more importantly, the bunkmate for Princess Erika Elunos-Byrnes. Instead of her contacts, the farsighted femme's eyes were kept with glasses-but other than that she wore the uniform indistinguishable from Erika-and quite distinguished from a famed socialite.

Anwen was her name, and she lingered awkardly near the now seated cadet. "U-um, Rikky." she cleared her throat. "I know it's been a while, and I'm sorry I was late..." She apologized profusely, both to her friend, and more to the woman who had wealth and status-status beyond what the Nathalaur clan currently possesed-but may one day reclaim. "Cadet Ah'nawen Nathalaur, at your service, Miz Vyterska."

[The Selkie]

Uinér the Elder certainly begat his son's gregariousness, that much was obvious to Theomer. Just as it was obvious that the stormy thoughts the man was dealing with were at his forefront-something to be expected, if Aonas spoke sooth about the Rohirrim's personality.

Theomer didn't particularly feel brave when speaking with either of the Blaidd siblings-quite the opposite! Being brave meant being afraid of something and having to do it anyways, with Branwen he...he was relaxed. For the first time in how long, he could just be himself, freed of the burdens and expectations of kingship. He wasn't Theomer, the Disputing Prince, he wasn't Theomer the good Christian elder brother of a family of five-and a small horde of cousins and god-siblings. He was Theo, Theo the marach club member, wryly keeping aloof of regional team politics, wagering and cheering on athletes by merit and teams by cohesion. Theo, the lad who was born in the saddle, spoke frankly, and meticulously combed over stories, plot points, and semantics with Branny. He'd be dead and damned before he'd see another "starship soap" that clogged the recent selection of Dancerian sci-fi novels. He was even Theo, the man who had a "friend" who was plying his hand at prose-in a bit of a sci-fi setting for Branwen's perusal.

He didn't pretend that he had fooled the Spirioad in the slightest, and when Elinn did confront him, he spoke bluntly-he wasn't going to critique someone's work without providing some of his own-and being critiqued in kind.

"Professor Ponárri," Theomer began with a faint ghost of a smile, "Will be happy that the Steward of this House thinks so highly of him. He is well, and meticulous, shearing sprouts-a bean counter par excellence. No doubt needed for those attending the class."

It was this next part that required a bit of bravery, something that twisted in his throat and caused his heart to protest-even at the eleventh hour.
"Do you know, Milord Raidri," He ventured. "Is the Venerable Master Blaidd, of Tralee Descent, present? Failing that, the Good Mistress Blaidd?"

A peculiarity of Danceria, nobody was simply "John Smith". Everyone had a name-four if you were devotedly Sindarin. Theomer felt that it'd be unbecoming of a man such as Llwyd-both in age and skill, to be referred as a mere "mister".

Raidri Uinér of the Tribe of Laois.
I smiled, when Theomer told me, that Ponárri was alright, happy and counting his beans – literally, by now, it seems, not only metaphorically. Granted, it was a logical progression, but it did not speak for the mental health of the man...
In any case, thanks to Aonas, I knew, that Theomer was not someone, who stood on ceremony above else, he wasn't Kyrenaian, after all, so it did surprise me slightly to hear him refer to the elder Blaidds this formally. Of course, I knew, who he was talking about and considering, what Aonas had told me about Theomer and Branwen Blaidd, it would be quite a meeting.
I still nodded.
“Meave is in one of the bay window, Llwyd should not be far away.”, I told him, then turned towards the far side of the room, pointing at the last booth. “Over there.”
Indeed, if one would look into the booth, one would easily be able to spot the middle-aged woman, who looked out onto the Tournament Field. She wore Gwisgwanaeth, Tralee's Geansai in the image of a Guarding Fox, one of the vulpines endemic to these lands. Her leather armour emphasized her build, the fur highlights on the hips, the fur ruffs on the boots and the beret of beige fur was contrasted by the two red, square fox ears in her hair (obviously fake ones) and the beige, fluffy tail. She looked strangely cute and exotic, but also a bit playful and decidedly not like a woman in her mid-forties.
Llwyd was nowhere in sight.
“Good luck, young man.”, I told him, putting a hand on his shoulder, “And don't be afraid, if Llwyd is a bit... gruff. It's normal for him.”

The Cressidas...That sounds like the title to a bad sitcom...

They were a tad late but not by much. It took a while for the ladies to really prepare themselves, Arthur Cressida, a young go-getter Parliamentarian in Abetton's House of Delegates, the lower chamber, his wife, Catiana an accomplished ballet dancer, between shows at the moment with the Royal Sauville Theater and the least of all, young Lady Amarilla Cressida, of the House of Cressida, the Ducal family of Lillah Provence in Abetton, otherwise unremarkable compared to her three elder siblings. The runt of the litter, determined to prove herself. Not expected to take her Family's Domain, that honor will go to her eldest brother, Xavier would do that, Arthur will likely do amazing things while in Parliament, and her sister, Annalise is already a Minister of their Provence. She had a huge crush on the country's Prince and future king, Linely in the meantime, would that ever amount to much, only time would tell.

Entering the VIP room, "Oooh would you look at this, looks like plenty of people have already arrived" Catiana said with a smile.

"I was afraid it'd get crowded. In a party networking is everything, later you are the harder it is to get into the clique." Arthur said

"Arty, relax, darling. It's a party, not a high school lunch hall. But maybe scout out some cuties for you, Ama."

"Ehehehe" Amarilla giggled a bit embarrassed, she was at least close with her sister-in-law and brother Arthur. Catiana, she meant well obviously but for Amarilla her eyes were set firmly on Linely.

"I guess," Amarilla said to humor her, "You never know who I might find but oh my--It's Infant Alloy over there!" She whispered

"That group you like?" Arthur asked. With Abetton being right next to Katase, no surprise they'd have a following in both countries, even among Abetton's nobility. "Why not get an autograph."

"Mmm perhaps in a bit, looks like they're a bit busy. Hate to interrupt." She'd find time to get to them later. Hard to imagine a cute seemingly upstanding young lady as Amarilla would like a heavy rock group but hey.

"don't wait too long, you never know when the chance might slip you by." Catiana encouraged

"Of course of course, But it'd be rude to interrupt so I just got to wait." Her stomach rumbled. "oh guess that's my stomach telling me time to go eat." She excused herself from the company of her brother and sister-in-law to help herself to some of the delectables .

"Cat, I'm really sorry"

"Huh, about what?"

"Dragging Ama along. I guess you had hoped for a romantic getaway given you just finished your latest performance"

"Aww I like Ama, I like having her around. Besides she's a young girl, she'll probably want to go off on her own at some point so we'll have plenty of time to get uuuh well you know." She leaned in whispering something giving him a gentle kiss.

Alaina Uiroll of the Tribe of Kildare.
The buffet was filled with treats, mostly of Selkie-origin, but also from many other places. The Handmaidens from at least three different countries had outdone themselves, truly, and especially the chocolate candies from Teressien were delightful.
I had to hold myself back, otherwise not even an M-103, a strategic airlifter designed to haul tanks around, would be able to lift me by midday... Luckily, there were enough distractions, which freely approached a well-equipped woman in Geansai, especially if that Geansai was composed of pieces in the natural colours of the fur and white stockings, marking me as a Servant to Gavida. The God of Arts and Crafts was a fitting deity for the CEO of an aircraft manufacturer.
Monarcha wasn't a major player in the field, but there certainly were smaller companies in the field – Cumscóir, for example, but they had another thing going for them, or Hane Airworks, which was headed by these two Okunarutsuran vixens...
They were around here somewhere.
In any case, after the newest potential toy was sent back with the nice recommendation, that my eyes were a bit higher up (Eoin Slabara did have the reputation of someone sticking it into anyone with two instead of three legs with the exceptions of his wife and his daughter, the former was how he came by the latter, a lovely young woman), I smiled... and saw someone new approaching. A rather young looking lass, to be honest, and she did not seem to belong to someone I knew.
And like a tourist.
Hm...
And heterochromia, too.
I smiled and, as she was close enough, told her: “If you like chocolate, you should try the Schokobomben.”
In addition, I threw her a wink and indicated to the confection, balls of chocolate with the core of marzipan, pistachio and nougat and a true firework of flavour.
As said, the Handmaidens had outdone themselves.

Beyeha Okka Melko.
Dad had high hopes for me: One day, this hope went, I would not be a Beyeha, not even the Beyeha of Jalid, but the Khana of Jalid, raised to that position by the Sultana Herself.
But that was only a future a long time away.
For now, I was Beyeha, a daughter of my Father, and here at a party in Cuan. It was not my first time here, Aurelia had dragged me along once for a diplomatic trip like this one, but that was a story for another day.
Nineteen years of age, a pale, beautiful woman with long, blonde hair and while Dad was talking to some dignitary or the other, I excused myself. Dad let me go with an understanding smile, the dignitary, some Teressian Diplomat, wished me fun.
But where?
So many people, some in my age group, many not...
I bumped into someone.
I turned to him, Arthur Cressidas (although I did not know his name yet), and took a moment to recover. Well, it wasn't a bad bump, at least not from my end, but it made me wince slightly. “My apologies, Sir. I should look, where I am going.”, I said with a small bow.

While in the midst of scouring through the crowd, Victoria, the pantsuit-wearing princess was suddenly approached by a young woman whom, to her surprise, seemed to have her hair coloured in green, something that was mostly an oddity back in her place. Nonetheless, at least someone has finally come to strike a conversation with her. "Oh, yes, I am, really", she replied simply. "So, I assume that you're one of the many guests here, yes? It's nice to meet you, dear, I'm Victoria Cattrall", she subsequently exclaims, while promptly extending one hand for a handshake. At the same time, having noticed the two glasses taken by the woman, she politely offered to take one for herself. Perhaps, the drink here too could be something quite interesting that she might later come to enjoy.

Rieka, Waldburgfrau von Lattenzaun.
I smiled. My hair was natural, thank you very much. And I believe, that I was a bit older, too.
“The pleasure is all mine.”, I said and took the hand for a shake, “I am Rieka, Waldburgfrau von Lattenzaun.” I let a beat pass and then explained: “Minor Teressian Nobility, high up in the North of the country. Nothing major.” Handing her a glass, some apple juice, I added: “And yes on both accounts, I am a guest here, and I am enjoying myself a lot. You know, this is my kind of event: Meeting people, new and old acquaintances alike, and talking with them. Business here, the newest opera there, politics with that guy in the corner, flirting with the young lad, who is brave enough to approach you...”
I threw her a wink afterwards, playful.
Of course, nothing would ever come from that, but it was nice.
“...and of course the buffet.”, I added with a smile, “Can't forget about that.”

The receptionist was a Selkie-Handmaiden, a young woman in a long, blue dress, a simple piece without much decoration. The Handmaiden smiled and nodded – she knew, for them to be here, they were clear. Otherwise, the guards at the entrance to the compound wouldn't have let them through.
“Indeed it is, Sirs.”, she said and motioned to the door, “The buffet is along the center of the room. The Tournament for the Cuan City Trophy will start in a few hours, for the Youth Trophy in a few more.” She smiled. “Have fun!”
And with that, here eyes fell onto the flyers.
She seemed to struggle for a moment, with herself and her orders, then decided: “Sir, would you terribly mind leaving one of those with me?”, she asked, almost timidly, “I am fascinated by opera and... well, it does get boring out here.”
Another Handmaiden, this one a bit further down the hallway and carrying a tray of something or the other, threw her colleague a pitying smile before disappearing into the lounge.

“Excellent,” William replies having been told of the events being held today. “I think we will enjoy ourselves then. Won’t we Alex?”

“Indubitably. Besides, I could go for some luncheon”. Before leaving it would seem that the Selkie-Handmaiden had her eyes on the flyers and asked about them. Alex was more than happy to provide.

“Of course ma’am” he says, handing a couple of flyers. “I am thrilled to meet another fan of opera productions, and let me tell you this opera we are producing is one of the most interesting in Phibetan history. “The Butcheress of Sauville” we call it. A great look into a time when Phibeta was a great empire, having just won a war a few years before this opera was written. If you want, I can give you a couple of these flyers, tell any performer friends or this entire town about this audition”.

The Royal Weston Opera Company is holding

Auditions

for this season’s production of Laura Jenkins’

The Butcheress of Sauville

Audition Dates: April 10 - April 20

Join us for this seldomly performed production of tragedy, horror, humanity and hope. Set in the capital of Abetton, Sauville, which in that time had lost a war against Phibeta and Katase. We seek actors, singers, and dancers to bring history to life through the power of music.

For more information, call or text Mr. Alexander Karinsky, +33 (00) 29 – 29383

After the Handmaiden had taken the flyers, promising to hand them out to a friends she knew might be interested (granted, more into watching then into participating in the production, but Karinsky didn't need to know that), the two were free to enter.
While it was a few hours too early for luncheon, it was morning, after all, there was an impressive spread on the buffet table and for those, who had skipped breakfast for one reason or the other, there was the offer to have a late breakfast in one of the bay windows, to be freshly arranged and brought by a Handmaiden.
For the rest, there was always the buffet – and the platters of sandwiches, which were most likely the most unusual pieces of this buffet.
They might also spot a few grand names of the Free Lands, when it came to actors: Donnchadh Púicín was, together with his wife Enya, conversing with Otis Sassa, Lugh Truill was nursing a glass of water standing next to Okan Fahnnan, who was almost besieged by Princess Lien of Byrkland, his greatest fan. One could also see the blonde mane of Amy Laoch, who was talking with Professor Bukker and Prince Vin of Dorch.
Alex, meanwhile, might recognize some grandes of the Merchant Guild of Leuda, even if they were being approached by the Cui, but he might also recognize the two ladies in charge of Capall Sciathán Trading, Kiana Rúisc of the Tribe of Waterford and Caja Rois of the Tribe of Fermanagh, who were known as exporteurs of luxury wares, in particular whiskey – but who said, that they couldn't expand? However, not only Selkie-Businesspeople were present... one might be able to strike up a conversation there, too?

Dana Vyterska - Erika Byrnes
Seomrasuí House, Cuan, Free Lands of the Selkie.

Two girls, alike in standing -- but of utterly opposed temperments -- approached the lounge, though they did not enter yet.

The elder of the two, perhaps in her mid-twenties, was a beautiful woman with long, pale hair and a well-tailored dress that showed a bit of her chest. She wore a genial smile as she leaned against the wall, crossing her long legs as she did so. This was Dana Vyterska -- arms-dealer, heiress to the Bronislaw Armaments and Strategic Engineering Development Corporation(BASED Corp, or BASED Inc), and, occasionally, a socialite.

Besides her, sitting on the floor, was a teenaged, blonde girl in a grey field-uniform and spit-shined calf-length leather boots. By her side was a guitar-case, and as she waited, she drummed her hands lightly on it. An emerald brooch lay on her neck, and an ancient sword-bayonet hung from her belt, but besides those two items, there was no other indication of wealth. In fact, she looked like she belonged more in some greyed-out, worn photo from some long-gone conflict than in a modern-day gathering of society's cream of the crop. This discrepancy was not helped by her eyes - the dull, green orbs stared at the other guests -- businessmen, celebreties, and worst of all, nobles -- with an expression somewhere between sullen disgust and hostility of the 'if I could I would bury my knife in your neck right now' sort. This was Erika Elurion-Byrnes. Princess Elurion-Byrnes, on the rare occasions she tried to pull rank.

Both stood watch, waiting for something, or someone. And that someone's name was Anwen Nathalaur.

Anwen Nathalaur
Seomrasuí House, Cuan, Free Lands of the Selkie.

---

She arrived fashionably late, her tail and ears twitching in atypical nervousness. She smelled-at least to the Spiroiad who could smell-quite different than their peers and vice versa. She in fact was of the Miqo'te, one of the dozen sapient species dwelling in the vast continent that Danceria reigned over-and more importantly, the bunkmate for Princess Erika Elunos-Byrnes. Instead of her contacts, the farsighted femme's eyes were kept with glasses-but other than that she wore the uniform indistinguishable from Erika-and quite distinguished from a famed socialite.

Anwen was her name, and she lingered awkardly near the now seated cadet. "U-um, Rikky." she cleared her throat. "I know it's been a while, and I'm sorry I was late..." She apologized profusely, both to her friend, and more to the woman who had wealth and status-status beyond what the Nathalaur clan currently possesed-but may one day reclaim. "Cadet Ah'nawen Nathalaur, at your service, Miz Vyterska."

Viola Dreach of the Tribe of Dundalk.
If someone was to ask of me to characterize Dana, I would say, that she was a businesswoman, a no-nonsense woman and, while a pretty woman, not one, who depended on it as her sole strategy of selling stuff. Quite on the contrary, she was smart, efficient and she knew, what she was doing, unlike quite a few people, who I had met over time.
I had met her in a weird place, at some wedding, I think, a typical high society function.
She was an arms dealer, I was in the hotel business.
An unlikely friendship, which had led to me inviting her to a cousin for dinner, vibing a bit, and proposing a business deal, which saw her selling us (demilitarised) tanks for those patrons, who wanted a bit of an extravagant holiday experience, as well as broker us contact to people, who knew how to drive and maintain the vehicles.
Dad had been quite impressed.
Now, she was here and I was in Cuan as well, with a third person. I almost had to drag the young woman with me, Liliane Guara of the Tribe of Fermanagh. She was the cousin, who had allowed me to invite Dana for a fish dinner and vibing to her home in Tráteach House on Argadnella Island.
She was a bluenette like I was, but she also looked like the sort of person, who would feel more at home at a beach then at such a party, in a warm country. Her story was not a pretty one, her parents died thirteen years ago. She was five years younger then me, a little sister to me like my half-sister Fiona was (who held the line in Creetown).
Regardless, I led her through the crowd, for I had spotted a familiar, pale-haired woman, who I loved to meet: “Dana!”, I said and spread my arms, smiling. One should add, that I was not wearing Geansai, Dundalk's wool and leather did not really suit me, but my favourite cocktail dress, the silver one with the interesting insights. “Welcome to Cuan, my friend!”
And with that, I hugged her.
Cousin Lilly, dressed in a fish leather ensemble one would usually associate with the Tribe of Wexford, but which had little in common with the ensemble used by the Lost Tribe, stood to the side a bit awkwardly, nodding to Erika and Anwen (who's names neither of us knew).

Llaslla Huamán entered the lounge in her March Equinox Robe. In her home country of Scornerse, being below the equator, today marked the beginning of fall, rather than spring, hence the her robes's autumn colours, despite here being at a spring themed event. She didn't feel particularly out if place in it, however, as it was still just as vibrant as any other attire as she could see in the lounge, at worst it'd be a conversation starter at least.

Another possible conversation starter was despite the fact her dress revealed very little skin, calling it modest would be somewhat I accurate. At her waist, her attire was skin tight with black fabric, framed gold rim below her bust and a red ribbon on her hips, her abdominal muscles highlighted.

It was a large part of why she liked the dress, as a younger girl her exceptionally pale skin, platinum blonde hair and heterochromic eyes would often be cruelly used to taunt her as weird and sickly. Being visibly toned tended to do away with the latter accusations, and it also indicated a risk to one's person to call her weird. The more courageous taunters, though, would shift to calling her vampiric, something she sincerely saw as almost a compliment, but that she wouldn't use it as a causus pugnare.

Of the things Llaslla was, fiercely competitive, and appreciative of competition, was certainly one thing It's part of why she was happy to take the trip to Cuan city for the days events. Seeing others compete was second only to competing to herself, so a trip here as a brand ambassador was an assignment she was happy to take up. Being a good member of the Scornersean professional strata, she knew her way around a horse, though she had a clear preference for jousting over horse archery.

That didn't, however mean that she wasn't up to betting on the events. In all likelihood that would be her only output for any sort of competition here. If the thorough security at the lounge was any indication, she probably wouldn't be facing up any guests. Not that she should be, if she could, she was there to represent QRP Military Vehicles, and it was generally not advisable to go around hitting potential clients or people who might know potential clients, whether not one could avoid any more trouble. Positive interactions were paramount l to good business, obviously.

To that effect, she was mostly observing the guests of the lounge, keeping an approachable smile on her face.

If Llaslla would have done her research, she would know a few things about the crowd in front of her: For one thing, the people in the blue, long uniforms were of the SDF-Army, the armed forces of the Free Lands. For the next, the dark-skinned man in the white uniform with the sabre at his side and the red cape, was from the Royal Kyrenaian Army or, as it was officially known, the Armies of the Five Deserts.
And it was no secret, that the RKA was looking for new vehicles, in particular, the Arados Arsenal AA-12 Alkhinzir Force Application Vehicle, the lighter and older cousin of the Arados Arsenal AA-32 Jaras Heavy Force Application Vehicle, was due to be replaced by an equally versatile, equally light and especially equally cheap Force Application Vehicle (for the rest of the world, that type of vehicle was an MRAP or Mine Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicle). Equally due to being replaced Arados Arsenal AA-40 Qut Armoured Reconnaissance Vehicle, a light armoured reconnaissance vehicle and APC.
In general, the RKA (and by extension the RKN, or Sultan's Navy in official parlance, or rather the Fleet Ground Forces) were looking for quite a few new pieces of equipment, both ground vehicles and aircraft, and while Kyrenaia had a good arms industry, they always looked abroad as well to see, if there wasn't a better solution out already.
And that, in turn, might clue the representative of QRP Military Vehicles onto the reason as to why representatives of Gabha Blacksmiths, Gabha Motorworks, Panzerschmieden Schwarzstahl and the Sarroxewer Panzerschmieden were present.
So, while the dark-skinned man with the red cape, Major Keke Kinaquod, was talking with a silver-haired woman in uniform of the SDF-Army, Lieutenan Colonel Corrin Paisúile of the Tribe of Monaghan (the commanding officer of 11 Dragan), the representatives of these four arms manufacturers were already preparing their own assaults on the fortress that was the Kyrenaian Army's equipment storages to maybe get a leg up in that tender.
Thousands upon thousands of vehicles were to be bought.
Billions upon billions of NSD were on the line.
While today would not bring the decision, the RKA was far to smart to make the decision as to which company got their money dependant solely on the word of one man, Major Kinaquod was the head of the evaluation committee installed by Princess-General Rasha bint-Razia herself. His word carried weight and maybe a late entry into the competition could still get a chance?

Gabriel Cui
Seomrasuí House

"Try not to get into anything I wouldn't do," Samuel said as Gabriel left him to talk shop with the representatives of the Merchant Guild of Leuda.
"You know me, Dad," Gabriel said in a tone that displayed levity. "I won't be raising hell, not if I can help it," he added.
After father and son separated, there were quite a few circles for Gabriel to find for himself. Starting with the bar was not a bad idea for the 25-year-old accountant from Abellana, Baguio, and Castillo, and perhaps he would find some interesting characters to get acquainted with, even if he felt it too early for alcohol.
As soon as he made it to the bar, he asked for the menu; he was in the mood for a good cup of tea, and there was something about Selkie teas that appealed to him ever since his father returned from his first trip to Cuan.

Gerald Vicente
Seomrasuí House

Gerald met Amy, kissing her as soon as they arrived. There was a romance to the kiss, and that romance was pretty obvious to those who knew either of the two. More to the point, they have shared the same bed from time to time.
"It suits you perfectly," Gerald said, a smile in his face. Geansai was not exactly something he expected to see her in, but a part of him knew that seeing her in the raiments of the Selkie was inevitable. The red-and-white of the Monaghan was something he familiarized himself with, but it was one thing to learn about her tribe's colors, and another to see her donning the same.

Jonathan Joseph Alquizola
Seomrasuí House

There was something about investment banking that attracted people aiming for mutual financial gain, and as Hong Long's Chief Operating Officer, Alquizola found no shortage of people interested in making business opportunities. Noticing the man behind Drochnós Forestry Work, Raidri Drochnós of the Tribe of Cavan, accompanied by someone he suspected was his daughter, he mentally filed Drochnós père as one such person...and his professional side was excited at the opportunity to establish a working relationship beyond the Confederation.
So excited, in fact, that as soon as the two were close enough, it was Alquizola who introduced himself.
"Jonathan Joseph Alquizola," he began, "COO, Hong Long Investments. Raidri Drochnós of the Tribe of Cavan, I presume?"

Celina Sloroimh of the Tribe of Cork.
He hadn't been able to make it.
The reason didn't really matter at this point, Chris and I... we were drifting apart, weren't we? Video chats and letters could only do so much and COVID and a long-distance relationship in times of COVID and... ugh. Fact was, he couldn't make it yet again.
I was here alone.
In my own City, alone.
Well, Mam was here, substantial parts of BI's roster were here, but Chris wasn't.
This was aggravating.
I was starting to feel lonely.
And as such, as I sat at the bar, I nursed a drink when an admittedly cute guy, a few years older then I, I would guess, came up next to me and asked the barkeeper for a menu. He got one, my fellow BI-Model Lykke Blon was anything if not quick on her feet, and I knew, that it detailed a lot of alcoholic beverages on offer, but also herbal teas of different intended effects (including one, which was useful at night), fruit juices, syrups, the whole nine yards – and water.
I was nursing a pear juice. I wore Geansai, in Cork's colours, and my hair was open, a black waterfall down my back, not the strict ponytail I sometimes wore when I worked for Mam and the Estates.
“Everything on it is free.”, Lykke added, then went and served another customer, excusing herself.
I... was I in the mood for a bit of flirting? Maybe... for a bit of conversation, always.
“Hi.”, I decided to start simple, “I'm Cel.”

Amy Ramallae of the Tribe of Monaghan.
I smiled at Gerald's reaction, glad that he indeed found me beautiful.
No vanity here, but... it felt good.
“Thank you.”, I replied with a small curtsy, then looked at him, “You look good as ever.”
He did. And although he, too, wasn't just some boy toy for me either, I found him optically appealing and knew, that he had the personality to match.
With the small stuff out of the way, I looked at him and smiled.
“Did you already have breakfast?”, I asked.

Nolwenn Drochnós of the Tribe of Cavan.
The cute banker met us in the middle, extended his hand and maybe it was his nervousness, but he preempted Dad introducing himself.
He smiled.
“Indeed I am, Mister Alquizola.”, he said with a smile, then motioned to me, “My daughter, Nolwenn.”
I made a small bow. “It's a pleasure.”
Dad smiled. “Now, Mister Alquizola, I hear, that Hong Long is interested in expanding beyond the Confederation's borders. Quite a bold move for such a young credit institute, if I may say so...”
And with that, Dad was off testing the waters.