A Convocation of Crowns - MT - IC - MTO Primarily

[Kyrenaia]

-snip-

"I will watch your career with great interest, Ambassador." Aceus nodded, noting the well rehearsed response presented to him. "If I recall correctly, doesn't Kyrenaia have a mandatory military service? I know that Fara served in the Mechanized Infantry. I do not mean to pressure you into service if it is not mandatory, but perhaps a collaborative post would allow you to live among Dancerians, if you are assigned to Danceria as an ambassador."

Cleone bowed and went to his seat, waving to the Kyrenaians as he walked away. Sitting down they greeted the surrounding guests and nobles "Buongiorno, it is quite a day." he turned to the blonde men "Cleone d'Angeli, pleasure to meet you. And this is my cousin, Lourdes." she waved her hand at the man and spoke in Spanish "Placer."

"Likewise." the blond man would smile. "A lovely day for a party indeed..."

Dschamilla had seen Cleone enter.
King Cleone of Lux Pulchrae, who had impressed the Grand Vizier and who had won her friendship, maybe more. She was not quite sure yet. Still, she liked him... but how much she liked him, she only became aware of it as he saw the brunette at his side. A deep and ugly feeling rose within her, all hidden behind a mask of professionalism, only her eyes telling of the jealousy she felt towards the woman.
She did not know, that the Baroness of Rioblanco was his cousin.
She also almost missed her little brother's reply. Fara had nodded at him stating, that she had served with the Mechanized, something she was proud of.
"Indeed there is a mandatory service.", Karim said and gave a small smile, nodding, "I'm not sure, if the Ministry of Foreign Affairs offers spots, but if they do, I would love to take one of them. Especially if it leads me back here... I've heard many things about the poetry and art of the Dancerians and I would love to learn more about it. I am interested in poetry myself." He let a beat pass, Fara hiding a smile at the way he phrased it. "Of course, such studies would be in the name of international understanding."
Al-Zahir smiled into his long beard at that.

[Danceria]

"I will watch your career with great interest, Ambassador." Aceus nodded, noting the well rehearsed response presented to him. "If I recall correctly, doesn't Kyrenaia have a mandatory military service? I know that Fara served in the Mechanized Infantry. I do not mean to pressure you into service if it is not mandatory, but perhaps a collaborative post would allow you to live among Dancerians, if you are assigned to Danceria as an ambassador."

"Likewise." the blond man would smile. "A lovely day for a party indeed..."

Dschamilla had seen Cleone enter.
King Cleone of Lux Pulchrae, who had impressed the Grand Vizier and who had won her friendship, maybe more. She was not quite sure yet. Still, she liked him... but how much she liked him, she only became aware of it as he saw the brunette at his side. A deep and ugly feeling rose within her, all hidden behind a mask of professionalism, only her eyes telling of the jealousy she felt towards the woman.
She did not know, that the Baroness of Rioblanco was his cousin.
She also almost missed her little brother's reply. Fara had nodded at him stating, that she had served with the Mechanized, something she was proud of.
"Indeed there is a mandatory service.", Karim said and gave a small smile, nodding, "I'm not sure, if the Ministry of Foreign Affairs offers spots, but if they do, I would love to take one of them. Especially if it leads me back here... I've heard many things about the poetry and art of the Dancerians and I would love to learn more about it. I am interested in poetry myself." He let a beat pass, Fara hiding a smile at the way he phrased it. "Of course, such studies would be in the name of international understanding."
Al-Zahir smiled into his long beard at that.

"It would be prudent that Your Lordship be able to defend yourself, but again, I do not wish to force you into making promises you cannot keep. If there is one thing you should know of Dancerians, we only make promises you can keep. Don't be afraid to tell someone that it's ridiculous, it'll be better overall." he smiled wryly. "Though I am pleased that another Kyrenaian would be interested in fine arts. Snow, there's a production of Sparxio and Lirema, or if you're familiar with the Greek retelling, Draco and Maria." "Tomorrow, if the group would be interested in the opera." the blond haired chancellor would smirk, seeing the idea that his good friend was having. "Perhaps the Foreign Service could spare a day or two for you to accquaint yourself with Danceria's culture, and allow our press to be familiar with your faces, being friends of Danceria and all. Thankfully for Snow, the attire is less formal and more business casual."

[Kyrenaia]

Dschamilla had seen Cleone enter.
King Cleone of Lux Pulchrae, who had impressed the Grand Vizier and who had won her friendship, maybe more. She was not quite sure yet. Still, she liked him... but how much she liked him, she only became aware of it as he saw the brunette at his side. A deep and ugly feeling rose within her, all hidden behind a mask of professionalism, only her eyes telling of the jealousy she felt towards the woman.
She did not know, that the Baroness of Rioblanco was his cousin.
She also almost missed her little brother's reply. Fara had nodded at him stating, that she had served with the Mechanized, something she was proud of.
"Indeed there is a mandatory service.", Karim said and gave a small smile, nodding, "I'm not sure, if the Ministry of Foreign Affairs offers spots, but if they do, I would love to take one of them. Especially if it leads me back here... I've heard many things about the poetry and art of the Dancerians and I would love to learn more about it. I am interested in poetry myself." He let a beat pass, Fara hiding a smile at the way he phrased it. "Of course, such studies would be in the name of international understanding."
Al-Zahir smiled into his long beard at that.

"It would be prudent that Your Lordship be able to defend yourself, but again, I do not wish to force you into making promises you cannot keep. If there is one thing you should know of Dancerians, we only make promises you can keep. Don't be afraid to tell someone that it's ridiculous, it'll be better overall." he smiled wryly. "Though I am pleased that another Kyrenaian would be interested in fine arts. Snow, there's a production of Sparxio and Lirema, or if you're familiar with the Greek retelling, Draco and Maria." "Tomorrow, if the group would be interested in the opera." the blond haired chancellor would smirk, seeing the idea that his good friend was having. "Perhaps the Foreign Service could spare a day or two for you to accquaint yourself with Danceria's culture, and allow our press to be familiar with your faces, being friends of Danceria and all. Thankfully for Snow, the attire is less formal and more business casual."[/quote]

Three pairs of eyes went to al-Zahir, the Kyrenaian version of Snow pondering for a moment.
"I believe, we can learn a bit more about Danceria.", he said with a nod, Karim grinning face-splittingly at that, Fara giving Aceus a wink and even Dschamilla showing a small smile. "After all, and you are correct with that, if we are friends of Danceria, we should be known in Danceria and Danceria to us - as well as vice-versa."
Karim grinned at the thought - Dancerian High Culture, right in front of him! On stage! And on one, which the King of Danceria approved! Could this get any better?
Fara tapped him onto the shoulder, motioning for him to tone it down - his grin wasn't splitting his face in two anymore, but only wide, as he schooled his face. He would freely admit, that this was shaping up to be a good visit already, learning many things literally at the reception.
And he was soaking it up like a dry sponge.

[Lux Pulchrae]

Cleone bowed and went to his seat, waving to the Kyrenaians as he walked away. Sitting down they greeted the surrounding guests and nobles "Buongiorno, it is quite a day." he turned to the blonde men "Cleone d'Angeli, pleasure to meet you. And this is my cousin, Lourdes." she waved her hand at the man and spoke in Spanish "Placer."

"Likewise." the blond man would smile. "A lovely day for a party indeed..."[/quote]

Cleone’s smile almost waned, but he kept it up “What’s wrong? Frenchman has your tongue?” he jested “What’ds your name? What do you do? You must be someone or else you wouldn’t be sitting here with the rest of us.” Cleone egged on boring there was a rather unwelcoming vibe.

[Danceria]

-snip-

"Edgar Cadtamir, Grand Duke of Harad and Figaro." he began to answer the questions in an equally cool manner. "I'm a negotiator for the Figaro Foundation, officially. Aceus is also my cousin, which explains my positioning here." he gestured to his silent but stocky compatriot "This is my brother Sabin."

-snap-

Aceus did not mind that the young man was grinning like a fool, and suppressed a merry laugh to see such exuberance as well. "Then I suppose we must discuss your lodgings-"

At this moment, he was interrupted by the entrance of the guests of honour. There was a brief silence in the air, as the Lotharians were announced, titulature and all, and the crowd erupted into cheers. Aceus took this moment to silently excuse himself from the conversation, and walk over to shake hands with the Emperor, for the press of course. Cheers and toasts to the health of the Host and the Emperor real under off the polished halls of the palace, and Aceus was introduced in kind, the jubilation being subdued long enough for Aceus's own titulature to be recited. The two shook hands to another roar of applause, and the Dancerian escorted the Emperor to his esteemed place at the table.

Now, the feast could begin in earnest. Tea was switched out for water, or more alcoholic drinks, and appetizers were served. There was still a dance to be up and coming, and many didn't wish to have too full of stomachs.

Upon returning to the head of the table, Aceus introduced the Emperor to the Grand Vizier, Princesses Fara and Dschimalla, and Prince Karim. "Be seated, Your Majesty." Aceus offered. "How are things in the Organization and in fair Lotharia?"

[Saarkrisken]

[

The Suzumikami beamed back at her questioner as she replied, "Thanks for the compliment on the dress. Your dress is a sight for sore eyes, itself -- as it must be for your husband, hm. The designer's an Indian, a friend of mine from my college days. She was in high school ten, but she's got the taste -- and flair, really -- for risqué outfits like this ballgown. For a short while I helped her get the materials she needed while modeling for her in my spare time." Tapping her exposed belly as if to make a point, Kiako went on, "She's a bespoke designer who usually goes it alone and keeps a low profile -- she's well-off enough to begin with, so she can refuse orders at will. The name's Sabrina Chandrapuri."

Then, as if remembering something -- and she did, though she could not recall afterward if it was the name or the unsubtle ribbing the bread-doubting young man received that made her mind her manners -- Kiako said, "Kiako Watanabe, by the way -- one of the three leaders of a little island nation called Dahon. Definitely not Sabrina Chandrapuri, hm. And you are?"

"Pleased to meet you Kiako, I am Sofia Honorious and this is my husband, Consul Frederick of Saarkrisken" she replied. "I don't think I could pull of anything so ... risqué" Sofia said, deciding it was safest to use Kiako's word to describe her outfit. "For starters, I don't have the stomach for it."

Edgar had a mysterious smile at the mention of children. "Oh...just a few here and there." he murmured in a noncommittal but telltale answer. "But, you came all the way from Saarkreeskan! What's there to know about your home, other than it has a high sense of fashion, as demonstrated by yourself and your wife." he bowed his head respectfully at the Consul's wife, before giving an almost playful smirk at the young lad "As well as many different types of bread, as demonstrated by your son."

Edgar's unusual answer awakened Frederick's curiosity, but he was too diplomatic to press further, instead he answered the Grand Duke's question. "It is a wonderful place. With a temperate climate and modern cities. It is rather isolated, but that way we develop our own culture and ideas, avoiding many global trends and fads. Still, we are an open people, especially ideologically. We don't judge other nations political ideology, and will even consider taking inspiration from communists as well as feudalists. We are not the richest nation, but we believe many things are more important than material wealth."

[Lux Pulchrae]

-snip-

"Edgar Cadtamir, Grand Duke of Harad and Figaro." he began to answer the questions in an equally cool manner. "I'm a negotiator for the Figaro Foundation, officially. Aceus is also my cousin, which explains my positioning here." he gestured to his silent but stocky compatriot "This is my brother Sabin."

Cleone gave a nod to the younger man "Pleasure to meet you." then returned to Edgar "That's nice, my brother is a grand duke himself, Grand Duke of Amaglione. But that doesn't matter right now." he waved it off "What's your opinion of His Majesty? I barely just met the man, and no one's more honest than family." he asked but his attention was soon caught somewhere else

A grand entrance was made and everyone was clapping, save Cleone, not knowing what the hell was going on. Even Lourdes got in on the applause, unknown to her as well "What's happening?". Cleone only responded with a shrug "I know as much as you." He watched as the man and a younger companion entered, noting how Aceus treated them with almost veneration. He looked back to Lourdes "Per l'amore di Dio, eh?"

"Stop it." she said with a look, raising her eyebrows.

[Kyrenaia]

-snip-

"Edgar Cadtamir, Grand Duke of Harad and Figaro." he began to answer the questions in an equally cool manner. "I'm a negotiator for the Figaro Foundation, officially. Aceus is also my cousin, which explains my positioning here." he gestured to his silent but stocky compatriot "This is my brother Sabin."

-snap-

Aceus did not mind that the young man was grinning like a fool, and suppressed a merry laugh to see such exuberance as well. "Then I suppose we must discuss your lodgings-"

At this moment, he was interrupted by the entrance of the guests of honour. There was a brief silence in the air, as the Lotharians were announced, titulature and all, and the crowd erupted into cheers. Aceus took this moment to silently excuse himself from the conversation, and walk over to shake hands with the Emperor, for the press of course. Cheers and toasts to the health of the Host and the Emperor real under off the polished halls of the palace, and Aceus was introduced in kind, the jubilation being subdued long enough for Aceus's own titulature to be recited. The two shook hands to another roar of applause, and the Dancerian escorted the Emperor to his esteemed place at the table.

Now, the feast could begin in earnest. Tea was switched out for water, or more alcoholic drinks, and appetizers were served. There was still a dance to be up and coming, and many didn't wish to have too full of stomachs.

Upon returning to the head of the table, Aceus introduced the Emperor to the Grand Vizier, Princesses Fara and Dschimalla, and Prince Karim. "Be seated, Your Majesty." Aceus offered. "How are things in the Organization and in fair Lotharia?"

When the Emperor of Lotharia arrived, the Kyrenaians did not participate in the clapping, excusing Aceus to do his duty with a nod from the Grand Vizier. He was a polite young man, al-Zahir noted and was very satisfied with it.
The press made their images, the Kyrenaians watching as the two men greeted each other.
Dschamilla noted the young man at the Emperor's side from a dossier, an adopted nephew or something along those lines, she could not remember.
With the guest of honour present, the feast was set to start, by the looks of it. Appetizers and drinks appeared, the Kyrenaians choosing to stay with the water: Al-Zahir didn't like alcohol and the three youngsters were expected to keep a clear head. Plus, Karim was a light weight.
As a dance was planned for later, the Kyrenaians didn't take too much, even al-Zahir, who would not participate. He was an old man and simply could not. Fara, however, would, and she knew exactly, who she would ask for a dance...
The conversation shifted to the Emperor of Lotharia, the Kyrenaians having bowed politely at being introduced, but al-Zahir didn't mind. One of his missions was to check, whether or not Kyrenaia would fit as an observer of the MTO - or rather, if the MTO fit Kyrenaia's needs and goals.
Interesting questions indeed... and that young man opposite to him was the man, who had founded the Organization.

[Danceria]

When the Emperor of Lotharia arrived, the Kyrenaians did not participate in the clapping, excusing Aceus to do his duty with a nod from the Grand Vizier. He was a polite young man, al-Zahir noted and was very satisfied with it.
The press made their images, the Kyrenaians watching as the two men greeted each other.
Dschamilla noted the young man at the Emperor's side from a dossier, an adopted nephew or something along those lines, she could not remember.
With the guest of honour present, the feast was set to start, by the looks of it. Appetizers and drinks appeared, the Kyrenaians choosing to stay with the water: Al-Zahir didn't like alcohol and the three youngsters were expected to keep a clear head. Plus, Karim was a light weight.
As a dance was planned for later, the Kyrenaians didn't take too much, even al-Zahir, who would not participate. He was an old man and simply could not. Fara, however, would, and she knew exactly, who she would ask for a dance...
The conversation shifted to the Emperor of Lotharia, the Kyrenaians having bowed politely at being introduced, but al-Zahir didn't mind. One of his missions was to check, whether or not Kyrenaia would fit as an observer of the MTO - or rather, if the MTO fit Kyrenaia's needs and goals.
Interesting questions indeed... and that young man opposite to him was the man, who had founded the Organization.

Maids and butlers presented a wide variety of appetizers and soups. Spanakopita, Skordalia, and Kalitsounia were toasted to perfection, while soups tempted the senses with flavorful wafts. All in all, the chefs had worked their masterpieces to be enjoyed by many in the hall. Aceus himself nibbled on stuffed olives, before continuing the conversation. "Would Your Imperial Majesty be interested in the dance? It'll be just after the appetizers."

However, a newcomer would enter, flanked by dark suited bodyguards. An elderly woman was escorted in a wheelchair, and was wheeled over next to Fara of all people, who quietly partook in the bread and salt, and waited until the King would notice her. She exuded a quiet confidence and seniority, and maintained an athletic, albeit diminutive figure, in spite of her age and current disability.

[Saarkrisken-Quote]
Edgar's unusual answer awakened Frederick's curiosity, but he was too diplomatic to press further, instead he answered the Grand Duke's question. "It is a wonderful place. With a temperate climate and modern cities. It is rather isolated, but that way we develop our own culture and ideas, avoiding many global trends and fads. Still, we are an open people, especially ideologically. We don't judge other nations political ideology, and will even consider taking inspiration from communists as well as feudalists. We are not the richest nation, but we believe many things are more important than material wealth."[/spoiler]

"A good position to have." He answered neutrally, at the mention of Communists. The fact that the nation had managed to remain isolated allowed them to balance issues in their own way, much like Danceria. Hopefully in a far more peaceful manner.

Cleone gave a nod to the younger man "Pleasure to meet you." then returned to Edgar "That's nice, my brother is a grand duke himself, Grand Duke of Amaglione. But that doesn't matter right now." he waved it off "What's your opinion of His Majesty? I barely just met the man, and no one's more honest than family." he asked but his attention was soon caught somewhere else

A grand entrance was made and everyone was clapping, save Cleone, not knowing what the hell was going on. Even Lourdes got in on the applause, unknown to her as well "What's happening?". Cleone only responded with a shrug "I know as much as you." He watched as the man and a younger companion entered, noting how Aceus treated them with almost veneration. He looked back to Lourdes "Per l'amore di Dio, eh?"

"Stop it." she said with a look, raising her eyebrows.

"The guest of honour..." Edgar mused. "Many of the nobles here are traditionalists, hoping to get some good press abroad to prevent them from being voted out of the Congress. A complex political debacle too heavy and droll for today's festivities." he cleared his throat, readdressing the Latin King's question. "He'll always be my silver tongued bookish cousin, bailing me out of whatever social debacle I've strategically placed myself in. If it weren't for me, he wouldn't have bloomed to such a fine diplomat." Sabin on the other hand, scoffed. "It's always because you tried to flirt with every woman with a pulse and somewhat within your age range." this earned a rather irritated glare from his brother, before Edgar continued. "He's a bit bookish, not as much as he was, thank the Valar. If you mention something fine-artsy around him, chances are he's already heard of it, or performed it. As far as leadership goes, he's a diligent pencil-pusher. While Villiers is a bombastic, charismatic individual, Ace gets the real political heavy lifting done. Any further information on his youth is a state secret." he omitted, a playful smile on his face as he recalled the escapades of their youth.

[Lux Pulchrae]

"The guest of honour..." Edgar mused. "Many of the nobles here are traditionalists, hoping to get some good press abroad to prevent them from being voted out of the Congress. A complex political debacle too heavy and droll for today's festivities." he cleared his throat, readdressing the Latin King's question. "He'll always be my silver tongued bookish cousin, bailing me out of whatever social debacle I've strategically placed myself in. If it weren't for me, he wouldn't have bloomed to such a fine diplomat." Sabin on the other hand, scoffed. "It's always because you tried to flirt with every woman with a pulse and somewhat within your age range." this earned a rather irritated glare from his brother, before Edgar continued. "He's a bit bookish, not as much as he was, thank the Valar. If you mention something fine-artsy around him, chances are he's already heard of it, or performed it. As far as leadership goes, he's a diligent pencil-pusher. While Villiers is a bombastic, charismatic individual, Ace gets the real political heavy lifting done. Any further information on his youth is a state secret." he omitted, a playful smile on his face as he recalled the escapades of their youth.

Lourdes looked away as Sabin made his comment, hiding her face with her hand.

“You think I’d be able to go toe to toe with him? Politically speaking. If there’s something I enjoy it’s a good political debate.” Cleone turned his head towards the front where the king was, specifically trying to find Mahmut, and turned back to Edgar “There’s a good old man up there, the Grand Vizier of Kyrenaia, he’s a good talk too.” he then flagged down a servant for some wine offering Lourdes a glass, which she accepted “Gracias amor, salud. and touched glasses. He called a servant again, requesting he send a glass to the Grand Vizier “Tell him it’s from Cleone.”

[Danceria]

"The guest of honour..." Edgar mused. "Many of the nobles here are traditionalists, hoping to get some good press abroad to prevent them from being voted out of the Congress. A complex political debacle too heavy and droll for today's festivities." he cleared his throat, readdressing the Latin King's question. "He'll always be my silver tongued bookish cousin, bailing me out of whatever social debacle I've strategically placed myself in. If it weren't for me, he wouldn't have bloomed to such a fine diplomat." Sabin on the other hand, scoffed. "It's always because you tried to flirt with every woman with a pulse and somewhat within your age range." this earned a rather irritated glare from his brother, before Edgar continued. "He's a bit bookish, not as much as he was, thank the Valar. If you mention something fine-artsy around him, chances are he's already heard of it, or performed it. As far as leadership goes, he's a diligent pencil-pusher. While Villiers is a bombastic, charismatic individual, Ace gets the real political heavy lifting done. Any further information on his youth is a state secret." he omitted, a playful smile on his face as he recalled the escapades of their youth.

Lourdes looked away as Sabin made his comment, hiding her face with her hand.

“You think I’d be able to go toe to toe with him? Politically speaking. If there’s something I enjoy it’s a good political debate.” Cleone turned his head towards the front where the king was, specifically trying to find Mahmut, and turned back to Edgar “There’s a good old man up there, the Grand Vizier of Kyrenaia, he’s a good talk too.” he then flagged down a servant for some wine offering Lourdes a glass, which she accepted “Gracias amor, salud. and touched glasses. He called a servant again, requesting he send a glass to the Grand Vizier “Tell him it’s from Cleone.”

"Politically, I would reckon so..." Edgar swirled his own wine glass, toasting when the two Pulchraen delegates clinked glasses. "I hear he's going to a Symposium in downtown tomorrow, that's where you'll find lectures and seminars on anything that can be written down or talked about." his eyes then traveled to the Grand Vizier and the Kyrenaian enterouge. "I have not had the pleasure of meeting the Vizier in person, but trust me when I've heard many wondrous things of the Kyrenaian, especially a certain Princess..."

[Lux Pulchrae]

"Politically, I would reckon so..." Edgar swirled his own wine glass, toasting when the two Pulchraen delegates clinked glasses. "I hear he's going to a Symposium in downtown tomorrow, that's where you'll find lectures and seminars on anything that can be written down or talked about." his eyes then traveled to the Grand Vizier and the Kyrenaian enterouge. "I have not had the pleasure of meeting the Vizier in person, but trust me when I've heard many wondrous things of the Kyrenaian, especially a certain Princess..."

He smiled “Which one? These people have a tendency to produce enticing princesses eh?” He raised his eyebrows to which his cousin rolled her eyes. She understood English but could hardly speak it.

[Danceria]

"Politically, I would reckon so..." Edgar swirled his own wine glass, toasting when the two Pulchraen delegates clinked glasses. "I hear he's going to a Symposium in downtown tomorrow, that's where you'll find lectures and seminars on anything that can be written down or talked about." his eyes then traveled to the Grand Vizier and the Kyrenaian enterouge. "I have not had the pleasure of meeting the Vizier in person, but trust me when I've heard many wondrous things of the Kyrenaian, especially a certain Princess..."

He smiled “Which one? These people have a tendency to produce enticing princesses eh?” He raised his eyebrows to which his cousin rolled her eyes. She understood English but could hardly speak it.

"Ah, that would be gossip, and you know what they say about beautiful women..." he nodded at his female companion's disdainful look. "They hear a lot more. I'm not one to gossip, but-" he leaned in conspiratorially "I could share some hopefully to be public news."

[Lux Pulchrae]

"Ah, that would be gossip, and you know what they say about beautiful women..." he nodded at his female companion's disdainful look. "They hear a lot more. I'm not one to gossip, but-" he leaned in conspiratorially "I could share some hopefully to be public news."

“Eh sure why not, my ears love a good gossip.” he said leaning in.

Lourdes slapped his shoulder “Cleone, deja a el quieto, leave him be.” She said in a heavy Spanish accent.

He turned and spoke lowly “Come on, blanquita, it’s just a fun conversation.”

“A conversation prying into someone else’s business.”

“What’s the problem?” he asked

“Nothing, continue gossiping like a salon worker.” she responded with a hint of frustration.

Cleone knew something was wrong but he turned to Edgar “Continue, me and her will work it out later.”

[Danceria]

"Ah, that would be gossip, and you know what they say about beautiful women..." he nodded at his female companion's disdainful look. "They hear a lot more. I'm not one to gossip, but-" he leaned in conspiratorially "I could share some hopefully to be public news."

“Eh sure why not, my ears love a good gossip.” he said leaning in.

Lourdes slapped his shoulder “Cleone, deja a el quieto, leave him be.” She said in a heavy Spanish accent.

He turned and spoke lowly “Come on, blanquita, it’s just a fun conversation.”

“A conversation prying into someone else’s business.”

“What’s the problem?” he asked

“Nothing, continue gossiping like a salon worker.” she responded with a hint of frustration.

Cleone knew something was wrong but he turned to Edgar “Continue, me and her will work it out later.”

"No es técnicamente un chisme." Edgar reassured her, in a slightly less accented Spanish accent, but more melodious, methodical rhythm of Dancerian speech. "Sólo trato de poner a mi prima con una buena chica. Now, here's the deal, see the girl with the knockers the size of Mount Gundabad." he gestured with his eyes over to Princess Fara, keeping a low conspiratorial tone. "That is Princess Fara bint-Damir, the Lady of Fechu. The two met at some dance in Viscovia, and he went abroad to meet with this broad and her family. Nice folks. Sadly, due to the death of Uncle Aramer, Aceus was in a...bit of a depressive slump. Now he's hoping to court the young lady. From what I hear, he just so happened to meet with a friend, cousin, sister, someone close to her. Nobody's more honest than family, and Ace wanted a way in. Even a sappy romantic like him knows how to work quid pro quo." he summarized, taking a sip of the wine. "With luck, and a little "accidental misfiling", he and the young lady will have some quality alone time for my boy to strut his stuff. If all works well, it's public knowledge. If not, it fades to obscurity." he shrugs, "From what I could piece together, the girl likes him back. It could be romantic, but I understand your wife's concern."

[Lux Pulchrae]

"No es técnicamente un chisme." Edgar reassured her, in a slightly less accented Spanish accent, but more melodious, methodical rhythm of Dancerian speech. "Sólo trato de poner a mi prima con una buena chica. Now, here's the deal, see the girl with the knockers the size of Mount Gundabad." he gestured with his eyes over to Princess Fara, keeping a low conspiratorial tone. "That is Princess Fara bint-Damir, the Lady of Fechu. The two met at some dance in Viscovia, and he went abroad to meet with this broad and her family. Nice folks. Sadly, due to the death of Uncle Aramer, Aceus was in a...bit of a depressive slump. Now he's hoping to court the young lady. From what I hear, he just so happened to meet with a friend, cousin, sister, someone close to her. Nobody's more honest than family, and Ace wanted a way in. Even a sappy romantic like him knows how to work quid pro quo." he summarized, taking a sip of the wine. "With luck, and a little "accidental misfiling", he and the young lady will have some quality alone time for my boy to strut his stuff. If all works well, it's public knowledge. If not, it fades to obscurity." he shrugs, "From what I could piece together, the girl likes him back. It could be romantic, but I understand your wife's concern."

She gave a half smile at that last bit but Cleone interjected. He smiled and chuckled a bit “Oh no, no. She’s not my wife, she’s my cousin. It’s been a while since we’ve done anything together so I invited her. Also my mother asked that I bring her along, to keep family close you know?” he explained, then looked over to Fara and sipped some wine “But I see what you mean.”

Lourdes overheard the men’s conversation but pretend not to. She sunk a bit at Cleone’s denial. There was nothing really there, but one could call it complicated.

[Dahon]

"Pleased to meet you Kiako, I am Sofia Honorious and this is my husband, Consul Frederick of Saarkrisken," she replied. "I don't think I could pull of anything so ... risqué," Sofia said, deciding it was safest to use Kiako's word to describe her outfit. "For starters, I don't have the stomach for it."

Heh heh. Stomach, you say, Kiako mused to herself. But instead of pursuing that train of thought, she told Sofia, "And I think those young people with you are your children? They seem very world-wise, or at least your son is. And speaking of the world," -- for it was at that moment that the crowd of nobles surrounding them erupted in jubilation -- it seems our raison de dìner has found his raison de jouer, in a manner of speaking. Why don't we join in?"

At this moment, he was interrupted by the entrance of the guests of honour. There was a brief silence in the air, as the Lotharians were announced, titulature and all, and the crowd erupted into cheers. Aceus took this moment to silently excuse himself from the conversation, and walk over to shake hands with the Emperor, for the press of course. Cheers and toasts to the health of the Host and the Emperor real under off the polished halls of the palace, and Aceus was introduced in kind, the jubilation being subdued long enough for Aceus's own titulature to be recited. The two shook hands to another roar of applause, and the Dancerian escorted the Emperor to his esteemed place at the table.

A grand entrance was made and everyone was clapping, save Cleone, not knowing what the hell was going on. Even Lourdes got in on the applause, unknown to her as well "What's happening?". Cleone only responded with a shrug "I know as much as you." He watched as the man and a younger companion entered, noting how Aceus treated them with almost veneration. He looked back to Lourdes "Per l'amore di Dio, eh?"

"Stop it." she said with a look, raising her eyebrows.

Kiako happened to overhear the understandably muted conversation the two were having, and surmising their nationalities if not quite their identities with ease, she directed a reply to them in an exquisitely polished (not to mention jocular) Italian, punctuated only slightly by her dislike of... certain nomenclature (not that that disdain would be immediately obvious), and by the apprehension that with the resounding din, she would be seen more than be heard.

"Signore!" She wanted to address the woman as well, but was unsure of her relationship to him.

"Signore! Quello è Giulio, re degli illustri guerrieri con i capelli lustri, e fondatore del... granddammit... dell'Organizzazione del Trattato Monarchico, che viene con un compagno! Devo dire che sono d'accordo con te -- questo è troppo, anche per un ospite d'onore!"

Having said what she felt needed to be said, she then settled back into her seat and listened to the assembled royals and nobles talk...

"Ah, that would be gossip, and you know what they say about beautiful women..." he nodded at his female companion's disdainful look. "They hear a lot more. I'm not one to gossip, but-" he leaned in conspiratorially "I could share some hopefully to be public news."

“Eh sure why not, my ears love a good gossip.” he said leaning in.

Lourdes slapped his shoulder “Cleone, deja a el quieto, leave him be.” She said in a heavy Spanish accent.

He turned and spoke lowly “Come on, blanquita, it’s just a fun conversation.”

“A conversation prying into someone else’s business.”

“What’s the problem?” he asked

“Nothing, continue gossiping like a salon worker.” she responded with a hint of frustration.

Cleone knew something was wrong but he turned to Edgar. “Continue, me and her will work it out later.”

... some pretty naughty stuff. ¿Solo tècnicamente, hm, compañeros reyes? Which was entirely up her alley, no mistake about it, but then she was Dahoni; not for nothing did the Vedas warn about the wanton sexual mores of even a then-fractured and near-unceasingly fractious Dahon.

"No es técnicamente un chisme." Edgar reassured her, in a slightly less accented Spanish accent, but more melodious, methodical rhythm of Dancerian speech. "Sólo trato de poner a mi prima con una buena chica. Now, here's the deal, see the girl with the knockers the size of Mount Gundabad." he gestured with his eyes over to Princess Fara, keeping a low conspiratorial tone. "That is Princess Fara bint-Damir, the Lady of Fechu. The two met at some dance in Viscovia, and he went abroad to meet with this broad and her family. Nice folks. Sadly, due to the death of Uncle Aramer, Aceus was in a...bit of a depressive slump. Now he's hoping to court the young lady. From what I hear, he just so happened to meet with a friend, cousin, sister, someone close to her. Nobody's more honest than family, and Ace wanted a way in. Even a sappy romantic like him knows how to work quid pro quo." he summarized, taking a sip of the wine. "With luck, and a little "accidental misfiling", he and the young lady will have some quality alone time for my boy to strut his stuff. If all works well, it's public knowledge. If not, it fades to obscurity." he shrugs, "From what I could piece together, the girl likes him back. It could be romantic, but I understand your wife's concern."

She gave a half smile at that last bit but Cleone interjected. He smiled and chuckled a bit “Oh no, no. She’s not my wife, she’s my cousin. It’s been a while since we’ve done anything together so I invited her. Also my mother asked that I bring her along, to keep family close you know?” he explained, then looked over to Fara and sipped some wine “But I see what you mean.”

Lourdes overheard the men’s conversation but pretend not to. She sunk a bit at Cleone’s denial. There was nothing really there, but one could call it complicated.

This also meant, at length, that she had to console the young companion of the man she had addressed in Italian earlier, after seeing her rebuffed by him and Edgar. If nothing else, courtesy demanded it... and she must admit, this noblewoman -- Lourdes her name was, as she would learn beforehand -- was definitely a looker.

[Lux Pulchrae]

Kiako happened to overhear the understandably muted conversation the two were having, and surmising their nationalities if not quite their identities with ease, she directed a reply to them in an exquisitely polished (not to mention jocular) Italian, punctuated only slightly by her dislike of... certain nomenclature (not that that disdain would be immediately obvious), and by the apprehension that with the resounding din, she would be seen more than be heard.

"Signore!" She wanted to address the woman as well, but was unsure of her relationship to him.

"Signore! Quello è Giulio, re degli illustri guerrieri con i capelli lustri, e fondatore del... granddammit... dell'Organizzazione del Trattato Monarchico, che viene con un compagno! Devo dire che sono d'accordo con te -- questo è troppo, anche per un ospite d'onore!"

Having said what she felt needed to be said, she then settled back into her seat and listened to the assembled royals and nobles talk... some pretty naughty stuff. Which was entirely up her alley, but then she was Dahoni; naughtiness was a given from eons as yet unsung.



This also meant, at length, that she had to console the young woman companion of the man she had addressed in Italian earlier, after seeing her rebuffed by him and Aceus. If nothing else, courtesy demanded it... and she must admit, this noblewoman -- Lourdes her name was, as she would learn beforehand -- was definitely a looker.

Lourdes looked around as Cleone was too busy making conversation. Her eyes landed on the women who spoke earlier, noticing she’d been watching as well “Che cosa vuoi tu?. She spoke Italian as well, being around them and such.

[Dahon]

This forthright question in Italian demanded a reply from Kiako, which she gave, less than forthrightly, most of it in English. "Nothing. Just noticed you slumping after, hm, that. You need time alone? Con quali lingue ti senti a tuo agio? Yo tambien puedo hablar Español."

[Lux Pulchrae]

This forthright question in Italian demanded a reply from Kiako, which she gave, less than forthrightly, most of it in English. "Nothing. Just noticed you slumping after, hm, that. You need time alone? Con quali lingue ti senti a tuo agio? Yo tambien puedo hablar Español."

“Spanish is fine” she replied. She was wary and almost hesitant, naturally. Growing up in a strictly homogeneous region, she had little experience around foreigners so she was cautious. Unlike Cleone, which was part of his job to deal with them. “What is your name?” she asked, trying her best English with a generous smile.

[Dahon]

This forthright question in Italian demanded a reply from Kiako, which she gave, less than forthrightly, most of it in English. "Nothing. Just noticed you slumping after, hm, that. You need time alone? Con quali lingue ti senti a tuo agio? Yo tambien puedo hablar Español."

“Spanish is fine” she replied. She was wary and almost hesitant, naturally. Growing up in a strictly homogeneous region, she had little experience around foreigners so she was cautious. Unlike Cleone, which was part of his job to deal with them. “What is your name?” she asked, trying her best English with a generous smile.

Kiako could almost feel her tense up -- it was evident Lourdes was unused to gatherings of this sort, in addition to the men talking shop right beside her.

Relax, girl -- I need you to relax. Take it easy. Returning that smile with one of her own patented smiles, she answered, "Kiako Watanabe, from Dahon, an observer state for the MTO." Kiako could not help bring out a sigh of discontent over that unfortunate name. Although she knew her name and nationality already, she pressed on: "And how about you?"

[Lux Pulchrae]

Kiako could almost feel her tense up -- it was evident Lourdes was unused to gatherings of this sort, in addition to the men talking shop right beside her.

Relax, girl -- I need you to relax. Take it easy. Returning that smile with one of her own patented smiles, she answered, "Kiako Watanabe, from Dahon, an observer state for the MTO." Kiako could not help bring out a sigh of discontent over that unfortunate name. Although she knew her name and nationality already, she pressed on: "And how about you?"

Though she knew it was pisspoor, she tried anyway “I am Lourdes de los Lagos, Lux Pulchrae, Baronessa de Rioblanco. My compañero here is the king, it is nice here. Nice name,” she complimented Kiako “like the chinamen I hear about.” her mantilla went loose into her face. She brushed it aside with her hand “What do you do?”

[Dahon]

Kiako slightly raised an eyebrow at the mention of "Chinamen", even as she thought the Baroness likely meant no malice in using the old pejorative -- insular south Asia, after all, had seen a rise in anti-Chinese (and recently anti-United States) sentiment during the last decade, the fact of which the kami had spent time in trying to combat its uglier manifestations publicly and otherwise, especially with an ethnic Chinese serving as kon to the Yakumokami.

Still, she thought it proper to dispel that misleading notion -- though, not yet. "Trying to describe what I do will take a while, so let's say I'm one of my country's three reigning monarchs, and at present the youngest and most voluptuous."

She leaned back into her chair, the better to display her assets and so gauge her reaction. "As you can see for yourself."

[Saarkrisken]

Heh heh. Stomach, you say, Kiako mused to herself. But instead of pursuing that train of thought, she told Sofia, "And I think those young people with you are your children? They seem very world-wise, or at least your son is. And speaking of the world," -- for it was at that moment that the crowd of nobles surrounding them erupted in jubilation -- it seems our raison de dìner has found his raison de jouer, in a manner of speaking. Why don't we join in?"

Sofia clapped although unsure of the reason, her husband however had made it clear that making a good impression was important. "Yes, this is my son" said Sofia as the clapping ended. A proud mother, she enjoyed the compliment. "We do our best, as an Honorious he has a lot of advantages, but also a lot of duties. We want to prepare him for that. Over there is my niece, Aquilina, the daughter of my husband's brother. My husband did take her in after his brother's death, but she is more like a sister to me than a daughter, being so close in age." Aquilina turned towards the two when she heard her name. Her aunt was in reality ten years older than her, not what most people considered close, but closer than most mothers and daughters, but also closer in age than Sofia was to her husband.

[Kyrenaia]

Maids and butlers presented a wide variety of appetizers and soups. Spanakopita, Skordalia, and Kalitsounia were toasted to perfection, while soups tempted the senses with flavorful wafts. All in all, the chefs had worked their masterpieces to be enjoyed by many in the hall. Aceus himself nibbled on stuffed olives, before continuing the conversation. "Would Your Imperial Majesty be interested in the dance? It'll be just after the appetizers."

However, a newcomer would enter, flanked by dark suited bodyguards. An elderly woman was escorted in a wheelchair, and was wheeled over next to Fara of all people, who quietly partook in the bread and salt, and waited until the King would notice her. She exuded a quiet confidence and seniority, and maintained an athletic, albeit diminutive figure, in spite of her age and current disability.

[...]

Lourdes looked away as Sabin made his comment, hiding her face with her hand.

“You think I’d be able to go toe to toe with him? Politically speaking. If there’s something I enjoy it’s a good political debate.” Cleone turned his head towards the front where the king was, specifically trying to find Mahmut, and turned back to Edgar “There’s a good old man up there, the Grand Vizier of Kyrenaia, he’s a good talk too.” he then flagged down a servant for some wine offering Lourdes a glass, which she accepted “Gracias amor, salud. and touched glasses. He called a servant again, requesting he send a glass to the Grand Vizier “Tell him it’s from Cleone.”

"Politically, I would reckon so..." Edgar swirled his own wine glass, toasting when the two Pulchraen delegates clinked glasses. "I hear he's going to a Symposium in downtown tomorrow, that's where you'll find lectures and seminars on anything that can be written down or talked about." his eyes then traveled to the Grand Vizier and the Kyrenaian enterouge. "I have not had the pleasure of meeting the Vizier in person, but trust me when I've heard many wondrous things of the Kyrenaian, especially a certain Princess..."

The Kyrenaians nodded to the Handmaidens and Butlers, who served them, both out of politenenss and out of respect for both their work and the work of the chefs - respect and dignity were very important things for the Kyrenaians.
Al-Zahir was smiling, when a Handmaiden brought a glass from a certain Cleone.
"Please relay him my gratitude and tell him, that I would love to speak with him later, over a glass of wine.", he asked of the Handmaiden with a smile, before he examined the Spanakopita for the best was to eat it. It looked a lot like a work of art...
...he would not begin, though, before their host was not eating, as it was polite.
Karim and Fara were silently speaking a short grace to thank the Gods, Dschamilla joining them soon.
It was true, Fara liked Aceus, in a different way then she liked Karim, in the way, that may or may not end in front of an altar, but she needed to know, if he liked her back... and if he would be up to get into a stable relationship with her. With how much he had going on, with the duties, that bound her, she knew, how Fadia's Falcon felt.
If they both could just have five minutes for each other, just to exchange a few words...
Someone came to her side, an older lady in a wheelchair, escorted by a number of bodyguards, which made Fara wonder, who that was, as she didn't seem to be bound to a wheelchair for a long time - or it was only temporary. The Kyrenaian Princess would not pry, that would be very impolite.
She bowed her head politely. "Good evening, Ma'am.", she spoke with a small smile, "If I may ask, who do I have the pleasure of sharing the table with?"