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Party in the White City | CoDN Only

PostPosted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 12:12 pm
by Allyrije
The sun began to creep up behind the Aravali Mountains; a wall of stone which protected the City of Yránair from the harsh, bare environment of the Thar Desert. The orange-yellow light of the sun illuminated pristine white, stone buildings which littered the coastlines of the city's many lakes. The gardens of the city began to spring to life with the inhabitants; the songs of birds filling the air as a cool morning breeze swept through the city.

As the sun continued to peek ever more curiously over the mountain peaks, there was a knock on the exterior wall of the room of Her Majesty Thyra I.

A modestly dressed but well-kept woman of a mature age entered the room, courtseying at the end of the bed, before opening the curtains of the Empress' room; allowing the light of the rising sun to fill the finely decorated room of the young Empress.

"Your Majesty, I must beg that you excuse me for this disturbance but I'm afraid that it's time for you to rise. I'm not sure if you remember but many of your guests will be arriving today... in-case you haven't forgotten." Naturally, the servant said this quite timidly for disturbing one of the most powerful people in the world is not something someone with a functioning brain would do lightly.

The Empress climbed out of bed and began ushered more servants in to help her dress, "Not to worry my dear, you've served my family for as long as I can remember, I know you wouldn't disturb me without good reason."

The blue sky above the city remained clear and, although the sun shone strong and bright as ever, the cool breeze from the lakes kept the palace cool and well ventilated; it seemed even the gods wished to help the Empress in being a good Hostess.

After almost an hour in her room, the Empress stepped out, her pale skin shining in the sun and her make-up making her pale blue eyes stand out even more, dressed in a green saree decorated with gold thread embroidery. Her jet black hair styled in a more laid-back than usual manner with it being tied into a bun behind her head, covered with a veil, but held in place by bobbles made of silver and pearls.

She held herself in a stern and confident manner, turning to her aides and commanding, "get the others up and dressed, we must all look the part for our guests."

"Of course, your highness!" The Servants courtsey before rushing to complete their tasks.



OOC

Pictures for Reference
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Do keep in mind that the veil would not be the pale blue it is in the picture but would match the colour scheme of the rest of the Empress's outfit.

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Image This is where the Party will be taking place

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PostPosted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 3:15 pm
by Nuak
Above the Karthspiri territory among the peaceful sky a plane gently cruised to its destination. The sky around the plane was peaceful, however it seemed like the occupants inside the plane didn't get the memo. Inside a teen scrambled around each cabin, throwing things all other the place in search of something. After attempting to barge into another cabin, he bounced off a fairly tanned individual like himself after running into him. The man stood around 6 feet and 3 inches tall, and dressed in a suit that looked it had nothing out of place. Huffing he stretched out his hand, helping the teen up to his feet.

"Raolisto, what's wrong?" the man said, looking over the teen nose scrunching up slightly seeing the teen's suit undone. He gave a small breath as if something were to continue until the teen interrupted.
"I lost my pin, the one my Dad gave me on my 12th birthday!" the teen replied, bypassing the man and continuing his search before a small throat clearing came from the man, holding a pin that had the Nuakian flag surrounded by a black metal. The teen's face seemingly lit up, grabbing the small pin and pocketing it, hugging the man "Thank you so much Trestol!"

Meanwhile in the other cabin, a woman and two other men were sat, the woman in a dark violet military suit decorated by metals on her left breast and a to match beret scrolling through her phone while the men sat on the opposite part of the room, the slightly smaller male sat comfortably on the other's lap. The larger male wore a naval blue counterpart of the purple of the woman's, and had significantly less metals, had a noticeable family crest in the middle of the metals in which the rest of them seemed to revolve around. The male wore a combination fire red vest-dress, the fabric leaving a little drag as he played with the outfit.

"You know Kas, if you undo Eklipso's suit I'm going to murder you myself" The woman said low enough for the man to hear, his fiddling stopping and turning to her.
"Glacia, it's fine, after all he's handsome enough anyways, plus we left our guns at home so you really can't" Kastilo said, smirking kissing his husband getting a peck on the cheek back.
"My suits fine Glacia, let my Regino have his fun. After all, he promised not to get hammered, right" Eklipso said, in got a groan from Kastilo.
"The only reason I'm listening is because I promised... and I couldn't say no to a cute face"

As the plane landed, the crew escorted the party out, with Raolisto trailing behind finishing up his suit as they stepped to the tarmac

PostPosted: Wed Mar 06, 2019 12:14 am
by Kawagishi
Yránair, Empire of Karthspire

Somewhere further ahead, a rather regal-looking Toyota Carina glinted in the morning sunshine as it cruised down the roadways leading away from the airport. A small flag, adorned in a taupe dressing and bearing the Imperial Seal of Japan, flitted in the wind from its perch at the front of the bonnet whilst an identical symbol was impressed in a golden finish just below the bumper. The vehicle itself was sandwiched between what was clearly a security escort, consisting of a police motorcycle a dozen paces directly ahead of the car and a black Toyota Crown covering the flank about the same distance to the rear. Certainly, there was no doubt in the minds of any of the random onlookers just beginning their days on the sidewalks around them that this was anything less than a high-profile diplomatic escort, one of the earliest of several to pass this way en route to Empress Thyra's sparkling summer palace out by the lakeside.

Beyond the Carina's black-tinted windows sat three of the Empress' esteemed guests for the day. On the far left sat Princess Shihoko, a shrewd and serious young woman fresh out of her twenties adorned in a white coatdress and wearing her short, jet black hair in a bobbed style. By the right passenger window was her mother, Crown Princess Mayoko, still the eye-catcher even in her mid-fifties dressed in her favorite dark blue kimono. Her hair, the same colour as her daughter's but significantly longer, hung freely down the back of her neck as she almost seemed to struggle against her seatbelt trying to get a closer look at the towering structures passing them by. Seated in between the two of them was Crown Prince Sadahito, a very attentive-looking man whose impeccable head of dark hair, unspoiled features and deftly-shaved face almost betrayed the fact he was pushing sixty. Contrary to his wife's more traditional fashion sense, the Crown Prince wore a simple black suit with matching trousers and a blue-and-white striped tie. Even a casual glance would make it clear he was by far the one with the most business sense, as it were, for the upcoming theatrics, though in truth all three guests were at least slightly intrigued by the brief description they had been given of the Empress' palace.

Perhaps a little too intrigued if you asked one person in particular.

"My, my... this truly is what they'd call an oasis in the middle of a desert, wouldn't you say?" the Crown Princess gushed, her Japanese practically caked in her native Kansai tongue.

"We're near a huge lake, so... it's more of an oasis by the edge of the desert, mother... if that doesn't just disqualify the 'oasis' designation outright," her daughter quipped with a slight grin. Indeed, said waterfront was already very much visible through the windshield, dominating the landscape just beyond the vast rows of white brick buildings.

"...yes, you might be right, actually... I wonder what they call that, then?" Mayoko mused, her gaze turning to the ceiling of the car as if she were actually thinking it over.

"I believe they call it 'Yránair', dear... I hope that's how it's pronounced, anyway," her husband chimed in.

"...'oasis' is so much easier to say, though," came the reply from his wife, who added in a brief chuckle as she turned her attention back to the sights and sounds.

Alas, the pleasant ride through the aforementioned city of Yránair soon came to an end as the small motorcade pulled up beside a rather official-looking lakeside structure, a tarmac pavement rolled out before it like a red carpet that had spent too long in the baking sun. Once the Carina had come to a complete halt, the vehicle's chauffeur disembarked from the driver's seat and headed over to open the rear passenger doors and let the royal entourage make their exit. The first one out was Shihoko, followed by her mother and finally the Crown Prince himself, the door clicking shut almost as soon as his feet touched the ground. All three guests took a few moments to get re-acquainted with the glare of the sun before starting their wait for whoever would come to greet them.

"...maybe just call it a 'lake oasis'," Mayoko's voice came out, briefly shattering the silence.

PostPosted: Wed Mar 06, 2019 5:47 am
by The Land of the Ephyral
Yránair, Karthspire

The onyx black car, seven-seated, transported the members of Ephyra's ruling Lenaleos family from the airport, having departed without issue from Yránair airport. It had been a long flight, but now they were on the road, and the destination felt that much closer to the car's occupants. A second car followed behind, carrying the luggage the four had brought with them for their stay in the Karthspiri Empire. A clean, more refined set of clothes for the party itself, and various other accessories. To the Archon of the Freehold and his family, Karthspire was a strange land of strange people, but one with which they would become more acquainted during their stay at the water-bound palace of the newly ascended Empress of Karthspire, whose very existence as head of state provided the Ephyral with no small amount of uncertainty.

The views however, from both sides of the car, provided no shortage of sights for them to experience. Anomedes Gorgosios Lenaleos, Archon of the Senate and Freeborn Landholders of Ephyra, head of the Lenaleos family, and grandson of the illustrious Anomedes Gorgosios Lenaleos Asalinos, saviour of the SFLE during the Great War, and the cause of revitalisation of Ephyral identity and power. He sat in the seat behind the driver dressed not in the formal attire of an Archon, but in the rich fabrics and colours of an Ephyral nobleman and asepro aekesio, master of the household; A fine and long indigo tunic, insulated and textured, marked with two vertical lighter blue stripes on the chest and rings at the ends of the sleeves, lined with immaculate silver stitching. Belted in at his midsection, his status as citizen and patriarch was confirmed with his matching toga, worn across his shoulder and body in the same style of deep blue with lighter stripes and silver touches. Appearance was important, for first impressions, and second, and third, and all meetings hence; to demonstrate to oneself and peers that the moral strength of the individual does not waver with familiarity, and that in dress as in all things, a man presents himself as he would wish to be seen.

His toga had been expertly folded upon him by none other than the lady sitting to his immediate left; a woman who he loved and admired, trusted utterly, and could depend on to reinforce the image he was cultivating. Sparalyka Gorgosia Lenaleos was seven years his junior, now having cleared sixty-one years of age. Yet the picture of a woman she presented in her person did nothing to diminish the beauty she had retained from her youth. A selar gown of the same dark blue he wore in tunic and toga was upon her body, the material reaching her feet. A silver ornament, similar to larger circlet, acted in lieu of a belt, tucking the material underneath her bust and forming folds distinctive of class and status. Her bare arms were still, hands rested neatly in her lap as she gazed out of the other window. Her qalinos cloaked wrapped around her in such a way that she could pull it above her head once stepping out of the vehicle. Her pure white hair, tied in chignon style, for the meantime remained uncovered. For almost fifty years, this woman who he took to wife at the age of her majority, having known her years prior his sister, had stood by him not merely out of duty, but devotion. She had given him five children, and though now beyond the years of childbearing Sparalyka Gorgosia Lenaleos remained the strongest example of proper womanhood in his eyes.

"This country has quite the landscape." The Archon remarked.

His sister-wife turned her head at his words and gave him a smile. "It's so very beautiful." She agreed, pausing momentarily to adjust the silver armlet upon her upper left arm, before turning her head to those in the rear. "What do you think?"

The two to whom she spoke were there travelling companions and family, their eldest son, named for Anomedes own father, Thalaemon Gorgosios Lenaleos; and his wife, Kaessara Gorgosia Lenaleos. His son reminded him of himself at a younger age somewhat; though Sparalyka insisted the likeness was uncanny. The man, a familial head in his own right, had opted for a blue tunic and toga also, but of a lighter shade, with plain silver stripes, and the material extending to the knees. He wore however identical boots to his father, as well as silver bracers upon the forearms. His son's deep purple eyes met his mother's and he respectfully replied, "I prefer home, but this isn't bad by any means."

His wife was clearly more eager. Kaessara Gorgosia Lenaleos was the Archon's niece, the second youngest daughter of his brother, Rhadaerion. A most beautiful young woman, now in her 26th year, had already been wed to Thalaemon for a good eleven years, a time period shorter however than the age between them. Unlike himself, his eldest son had shown little inclination to his sisters as a prospective bride, and whilst he had felt inclined to force the issue, he relented once the suitable and virtuous Kaessara claimed his interest (an interest with the added benefit of freeing up Anomedes' daughters to be married off elsewhere). Kaessara was a spirited woman, eager to try new things but ever mindful of duty and honour. The sights of the land most evidently appealed to her as she responded with greater interest. "I only wish Selia had sights like these." She declared. "I want to visit more of this country."

Though eager, Kaessara didn't lack for virtue, and the Archon knew she could be relied upon to behave as a proper example of womanhood. Her ivory selar, fastened at the shoulder with gold brooches to Sparalyka's silver, and with a similar but golden belt circlet to match, hugged her body alluringly; accentuated by the deeper v-neck worn in contrast to his own wife's more concealing attire. The skin of her upper chest would feel the Karthspiri air when she stepped out the car, as the v-neck dipped to her cleavage. Across her body however, the white and gold qalinos awaited to be raised over her head as befitted a wedded woman.

In full length dress, Kaessara wore nothing that would shame herself or the family. The car pulled up to the palatial pier, and came to a stop. The Archon's door was opened first, and he stepped out, reaching back into the car to take his wife's hand. Once stood, Sparalyka swiftly covered her head with her qalinos. And as he shut the door, his son aided his own wife out of the car and she did the same. As their luggage was brought by the servants, they walked to the pier to await transportation.

PostPosted: Wed Mar 06, 2019 8:55 am
by Nordamy
Yránair, Karthspire

The convoy of Raul Torrijos made its way to the palace under increased security, with the threat of assassination they weren't taking chances. You couldn't tell from the outside there was an increase in security but, there were more officers than usual with Torrijos. He was with his brother, José "Coco"Torrijos, and a representative, Isabel Rejouis. At 24, he was probably the youngest one there and the one without a family other than his brother. All three were dressed formally with their party attire packed away.

José spent most of the time gazing out the window at the country,

"Nice country eh?"

Raul nodded somewhat lost in his thoughts. He needed time away from Mexico. The drama in the canal had everybody on edge. The world was especially tense because of the new government. A radical libertarian government in power? To them, a threat to the "Old Guard" as it was known affectionately.

"Hey Raul, think you'll get lucky?" his representative asked.

She was referring to one of two things: a date or an alliance. He smiled and shook his head

"Nobody likes Mexicans. If we were here to cut lawns, then yes"

This prompted laughter among those in the limo. In college he did some small time stand-up as a side gig while studying political theory and law. They say you need to laugh more at the absurdity of situations, that it's therapeutic.

They arrived at the palace pier within an hour. As they took their luggage they marvelled at the sheer luxury of the palace

"These royals are strapped. We need something like this" said José. Isabel replied
"Since when did you become king?"

For a moment they were kids in high school again, where nothing mattered. They noticed the Archon of Ephyral and his wife waiting at the pier, a good friend of the Old Guard. The trio made their way over to the pier. Raul attempted to make conversation

"Guess we're sharing a boat there"

Nothing at first. In his mind he thought

"Ok they may be oddballs in the world but, you need them.
Just stay cool and don't be the stereotype"


José was busy checking his phone for updates on the situation. Being a deputy in Foreign Affairs, this was all part of the job. The security team just stood watching and waiting

"Don't mind them, they're just here because of, la drama"

PostPosted: Sun Mar 10, 2019 2:32 pm
by Allyrije
As the Foreign Guests arrived at the Docks, a wooden lake ship, propelled by 10 to 15 oars on each side, began to make its way over. Upon docking, the first off was a small, middle-aged and well dressed woman. She smiled at the guests as several younger, more well built and, upon inspection, more poorly dressed figures made their way off the boat. They stood, staring at the ground, with their hands holding one another behind the woman.

With a beaming smile on her face she began in a clear and refined English accent, "Good morning guests! I am the Chief Maid of her Serene Majesty Thyra the first but, for purposes of ease, you're more than welcome to call me Prijanka. As for those assembled behind me, they are those who serve the House of Allyrius in Indentured Servitude; as a punishment for heinous crimes, for which they have shown to be repentant and able to be corrected, or as a punishment for accumulating unsustainable amounts of debt which her Majesty has paid off on their behalf in-exchange for their temporary service."

She turns to look at the ragged souls assembled behind her, "Ar'drakál" she shouts; pointing at the bags behind her in a swift motion. The indentured servants began picking up the bags and loading them onto the ship; hurrying around them like a well coordinated group of ants. When the tallest, and most well built, and darkest of them went to pick-up and move the last bag, that of Prince Raolisto, he accidentally grazed against the young Prince; something which, clearly, had not gone unnoticed when Prijanka began to shout quite loudly in his direction, "Ahmed! Nil tilhrethí 'Ar'drakál' lín 'Ar'Rijkmyrárr'!"

Swiftly, the servant drops the bag and returns to Prijanka, head bowed further than usual; seemingly out of shame. As another servant comes along to collect the bag, as swiftly as the previous servant left, Prijanka takes off one of her shoes and begins to beat the man with it. With each hit, up to the count of 10, she screams "Lin veréthi!" Once the beating stops, the servant walks away in shame as the rest beckon the guests onto the boat.

PostPosted: Mon Mar 11, 2019 4:32 am
by The Land of the Ephyral
Yránair, Karthspire

Anomedes watched the display of the bizarre woman with amused interest, as shoe in hand she beat the servant who committed the grave error of touching someone superior to him. The Archon counted ten strikes and the exclamation of some unknown remark. To his left, Sparalyka looked similarly entertained - a modest smile on her lips. To discipline a slave with one's footwear in Ephyra would be a most impractical task, as Sparalyka's and Kaessara's sandals laced up their shins and calves. It would take longer to get them off than it would to deliver the beating. Strange woman... The Archon thought as he led his family unto the boat, following the Chief Maid's invitation. Their luggage stored by the thoroughly alert servants, especially the one with shoe marks upon his head, the Lenaleos family moved to take seats upon the wooden craft.

"A wooden ship?" Anomedes' niece Kaessara murmured in High Ephyral as she unsteadily took her seat on the slightly swaying craft. "This better be more reliable than it looks."

He found himself agreeing with his son's wife. Of all the vessels he had expected to take them to the floating palace, an oared wooden ship was not what he'd conceptualised. Taking Sparalyka's hand to help her onto the ship and to her seat, he responded to his niece's concerns. "I wouldn't worry. If you get beaten with a shoe for brushing into someone, I imagine the punishment for sinking the Empress' boat is far more severe."

Sparalyka laughed at his comment, drawing looks from the other passengers who did not understand their language. His son sat down next to his wife. "That was quite the belting." He remarked, pausing to adjust his toga. "Whenever ours miss their place, Kaessara just slaps them."

Nodding, the young woman spoke again. "One slap. It does the trick. I certainly don't shout... 'len varthee?' What was it she was screaming?" She asked her husband with a confused look.

Thalaemon shook his head. "Not a clue." The boat began to set off as all other guests boarded during their conversation. "Can't understand a word of their barbarian tongue."

The water rippled around the boat's oars as they set off towards the palace in the centre of the lake. The Archon spoke finally. "Barbarian as it may be, we are to be courteous to the Empress and her staff. You never know who might have learned Ephyral over there, and I wish to avoid diplomatic incident by overhearing of disrespect. This is a different land with different practises." He took a look at the palace. Certainly a land of architectural prowess. He mused silently. Turning to Sparalyka, he commanded, "You will remain at my side unless I say otherwise. Remember, we are guests of an imperial house, it is most important we display ourselves to the utmost dignity and propriety."

"Of course." She returned with a smile.

Lenaleos replied her smile, and offered an acknowledging nod to his son. He had no need to tell his son how to govern his wife. Eleven years of marriage had given him more than enough experience, and Kaessara was as dutiful a wife as any man could wish for. He had every intention that the four of them should present the most noble and dignified representation of the Senate and Freeborn Landholders of Ephyra that was humanly possible.

PostPosted: Mon Mar 11, 2019 5:04 am
by Kawagishi
As they awkwardly tip-toed off the pier and onto the boat, the Japanese delegation took turns staring back at the so-called "Chief Maid" and her quarry of indentured punching bags with expressions varying between pitiful, confused and a prominent shade of indignation. The very sight of slaves in of itself wasn't the usual happenstance for those not familiar with the darker goings-on of the Karthspiri nation, but outright physical abuse was turning the dial all the way up to eleven, something Princess Shihoko would've been all too eager to point out were their hosts literally anyone else. Perhaps a maid from some dingy old estate in Hypatolion would've just rolled her eyes and muttered something like "bloody foreigners" before getting right on with it, but Miss Prijanka was the steward of their most treasured ally's reigning monarch.

"Dear, Empress Thyra might just send the boat straight back to shore if she walks out to find you glaring like that...," Mayoko murmured to her daughter after noticing the revulsion speckled all over her features.

"We'd be so lucky," Shihoko sighed in response, no doubt imagining herself picking that shoe up and introducing it to the Chief Maid's glowering face.

"I'd say a once-in-a-lifetime journey to a floating summer palace on a lovely old vessel such as this one makes us quite lucky indeed... been a good few years and too many fancy Ascoobian ales since I last had the privilege of crossing the waves on something that wasn't packed to the rafters with nosy journalists and armed guards," the Crown Prince chimed in, trying to lighten the mood a little as the three of them poked around in search of a decent seat.

"Armed guards that you always insist on bringing along, love," Mayoko added with a smile, taking a brief glance at the police escort chatting away on their radios by the pier entrance. Regardless of her words, she did truly feel a lot more secure with them at her sides... especially when surrounded by as many shifty old ministers as a woman of her stature often warranted. The presence of such questionable folk as the Mexicans and even the Archon's own family only served to reinforce this feeling as she sat beside her husband and child by the edge of the boat, peering down at her muddled visage reflected in the water below.

"Kinda wish we'd brought them on board too, what with all the mustache-twirling sociopaths the Empress saw fit to invite to her fancy ball," Shihoko mumbled as the sound of her heel tapping the wooden planks below their seats began to fill the air.

"Shiho, please... we're here to shake hands and smile politely, yes? The swearing and cursing can wait until we're back in Tokyo," her mother insisted with a look of resigned exasperation.

PostPosted: Mon Mar 11, 2019 2:06 pm
by Nordamy
Yránair, Karthspire

Raul watched the display of abuse from the servants. He was a tad shocked at the sudden outburst but, he's seen much worse from his previous life. First in a gang and then as a soldier. Some servants came over insisting they carry his luggage to the ship. Not wanting to offend anyone he let them take his things somewhat to his agitation. He preferred to carry his own luggage.

"En Tre Båtco?" José said in Creole. In English it meant "A Wooden Boat?"

Isabel replied in Creole
"Svis te falles ut, ter svøando"
In English "If you fall out, you're swimming"

The other passengers spoke in their languages. Next to him the Archon spoke with his wife and child. He silenced his phone as the constant updates were annoying him. He needed to unwind later after all the canal controversy plus the upcoming drama. The leader of a rebellious movement here with other leaders?

PostPosted: Tue Mar 12, 2019 2:28 pm
by Nuak
The Regino looked at the actions against the servant, wincing a little but staying silent, attempting to divert his attention to away taking the arm of his husband and walking forward with a glare or two from Glacia and Trestol, meanwhile the Raolisto having excused himself a long while into the watercraft. Taking their spots, the party starts talking in Esperanto, keeping their voices hushed

"It was just a little brush" Kastilo said even softer than thought possible for a hushed discussion
"Yes, but we are on foreign soil, agree or not we have to follow their rules" Glacia piped up, silencing the Regino's dissension, being reserved to small mutterings

"Think of it this way Sweetheart, would you like others telling us off for our relationship, on our soil?" Eklipso said wrapping himself around his partner, a bunch more muttering coming from him followed with a sigh.

Meanwhile
While the rest of the party was at their seats, the Princo looked out at the lake, keeping his distance from the servants to ensure not another wouldn't endure the abuse, but also casually checked out the members of other nation's delegations and making mental notes also reminding himself to ask his parents about the laws for Nuak's indentured servants.

"Beautiful place for a palace at least"
With that, the Princo made his way back with his parents awaiting the rest of the night to begin

PostPosted: Thu Mar 14, 2019 2:47 pm
by Allyrije
The Boat came to a sudden stop by a small wooden outcrop hanging from the side of the palace. The lakeboat swayed gently as the waves of the lake, caused by the desert breeze, lapped gently at its sides. Prijanka stepped off of the boat first, asking the Llarelánn'Révine, the elite royal guards of the Empress, to allow the guests entry to the palace; a request that they silently bowed to showing acceptance.

She turned back to the boat, "You're welcome to come in. I'll have the servants take your things and show you to your rooms. I know you've all had long flight so for now just try to..."

A loud series of bangs comes from inside the Palace followed by shouts from a noble sounding but angered voice, "Sindlanil! Lín són'allhanrilli! Versilrá Lín, mahimanárra darí!"

"Y'know calling me the son of a whore doesn't really work when we have the same mother!" A more youthful but cocky voice retorted.

"Nirl ejál!" Replied the more noble sounding voice, sounding even more angered than before.

The reply was followed by the sound of quick and angered footsteps on the stone floor of the palace courtyard towards where the boat was. Around a corner came the Empress, dressed in her green and gold Saree with her hair tied back and decorated with pearls. She appeared a little startled at how close the guests were but recomposed herself.

She cleared her throat, "Til... oh sorry. Welcome to the Summer Palace! As is Karthspiri tradition I must request that you take an offering of Karah Prashad from one of the servants on your way to your room to signify that, due to you being in my household, that you're under my protection. Take your time to explore the gardens, pools and facilities of the palace as well as your rooms and I'll send for you all when it's time for dinner to be served. I'd also like to apologise on behalf of my three sisters and my brother, they thought it more important to sleep in than to prepare themselves to receive guests... hence my little fight that I'm sure you were all entertained to hear."

As more Servants, dressed as finely as Prijanka, made their way out of the Palace to collect the luggage of the guests of her Majesty, the Empress beckoned over at Prijanka, "My dear, I believe we need to have a word as soon as these have made their way to their rooms, do we not?"

Prijanka bows, "Nilsedashrí, Arathínn."

PostPosted: Sun Mar 17, 2019 2:27 am
by Kawagishi
"...well, now I know how to say that in Karthspiri," Shihoko quipped as the sounds of Empress Thyra's sibling barbershop quartet trading barbs wafted out from the palace interior. Indeed, for such a hotly-anticipated diplomatic rendezvous of the nation's foremost trading partners, it definitely seemed almost as if most of the Empress' staff had only just learned they were expecting guests.

"And, knowing you, also in French, Korean, English, Italian... didn't you also take Russian that one time?" Mayoko queried in response, a hint of jest clear in her voice.

"Itak, vy pomnite," Shihoko replied with a grin.

"Yes, well... I shall take your word for it," her mother chuckled, turning her attention back to the procession unfolding right before them. The brief verbal spat between the palace folk had ceased and Empress Thyra had at last stepped out from the shadows, armed with rapturous smiles and expertly-choreographed platitudes to help ease her esteemed guests into the new environment. The three Japanese royals listened attentively as she welcomed them all to the summer palace, invited them to accept some traditional Karthspiri offering on their way in and gave a brief overview of the establishment itself, even throwing in an apology on behalf of her rowdy siblings for good measure.

"I think I'll head up and get our boarding all sorted out with the staff, then," Sadahito spoke up once Thyra's spiel had concluded.

"Of course, love. Shiho and I will poke around for a bit, get the lay of the land and all that," Mayoko affirmed with a nod, ushering her daughter to follow her as the Crown Prince headed towards the palace entrance.

PostPosted: Sun Mar 17, 2019 3:57 pm
by Nuak
The party stood there for a second, taking in the view of the palace, Trestol in particular looking like he was deep in thought even during the interruption before a whistle came from the Regino, earning a elbow to the rib courtesy of the Princo. The Regino smiled a bit and blushed, before giving a small thumbs up to his son. Upon seeing the Empress open after her discussion with her Chief Maid, the party made their way over in total bowed to her in respect

"Your Majesty, it is our honor to be in your beautiful country and in your presence today, I hope to build a good relationship with your nation and with yourself" Kastilo said, letting go partly on the fabric of the dress part of the outfit he wore, as most of the party started to drift after their bow and a good few seconds passed.

Eklipso and Raolisto went off together not far off from Kastilo, looking out a nearby window to the lake, softly talking just barely enough to avoid being heard
"Panjo really laying down the charm isn't he Pacjo", Raolisto said, earning a smirk from Eklipso
"Certainly is, maybe your panjo can help me get a hold of a boat to sail in the lake" Eklipso said
"Pacjo, I felt really bad for that servant, he didn't mean anything and he got punished for an accident" Raolisto said earning a half smile from his father.
"Even from another family member you're just like your Panjo, it will be fine, I'll have a talk with everyone about it later"
"Dankon, Pacjo" Raolisto said, looking out of the window and smiling seeing the sun "The defender of the sun and the happiness of his citizens, just like in the myths you read to me as a kid"
"Nice to see you got something from me too, I was wondering if somehow Laurine gave a virgin birth" with that Raolisto gave his dad a soft punch in the arm, giving him a hug before gesturing they go off to get their things settled as the Princo guiltily eyed the servants male and female.

Glacia began calculating her routes of escape and strategy to get the group to safety and halfway paying attention to the Empress but still managing to keep her wits up and look professional and semi-warm. As she drifted her thoughts made out to more strategy before she quieted her mind and straitened her uniform making her way to her room. Taking out her cellphone, she opened it and began watching some stupid fail compilations on it, being careful not to bust out laughing

Trestol looked on to the architecture and luxury of everything, sure he looked like a wall built of muscle but in his head was having a mental breakdown trying to calculate and take everything in as he drifted from place to place. He had read about the beauty of the items of old and locations but he had never seen them in person, he was like a kid in a candy store, admiring everything he could see

PostPosted: Thu Mar 21, 2019 4:31 am
by The Land of the Ephyral
Yránair, Karthspire

The Archon stood on the wooden outcrop, his family having stepped off following the servant, when the commotion became audible. All four Ephyral stood in silence listening to the trade-off in both Karthpsiri and in English. Lenaleos was unable to understand the Karthspiri, but the English retort brought a smile to his wife's lips. He looked at her and she smiled more, before they both turned their attention to the oncoming footsteps and the young woman in the green-gold wrapped attire who had sounded them. Thyra I Allyrius was for the first time presented to her guests and international contemporaries.

After her introduction and the arrival of more servants to collect the luggage brought by the guests, Sparalyka broke the Ephyral silence. "Are these Karthspiri a particularly angry people?" She wondered.

"Her brother called their mother a whore." Kaessara added. "What kind of behaviour is that? Why would you insult your own birth?"

Lenaleos responded to both women. "If familial discord is an element of their culture we shan't intrude upon it." He declared. "We ought to take that offering the Empress spoke of in order to formally be guests here."

"What about the gift?" Kaessara asked, brushing her heir back with her hand.

After a pause, the Archon decided, "I believe it better if we wait until the Empress does not have a thousand things to sort before we give our present to her." He began walking towards the palace with Sparalyka at his side. Behind him, his son and niece engaged in idle conversation. Taking the offering from the servant, they continued down the stone path. Sparalyka turned her head around to look at the Empress again.

"A pretty young woman." His wife remarked. "Very young for such a position."

"You were younger when we married." Anomedes pointed out.

Sparalyka ate the Karah Prashad and made a face. After finishing the guest-offering, she offered a reply. "I'm not sure how comparable marriage is to a coronation."

They neared the entrance of the palace. "The former would better suit a woman, even a Karthspiri woman." He returned.

His sister-wife gave him a coy smile. "Don't you get any ideas with the Empress now. She may be young and beautiful but one of her strongest assets right now is herself. We don't want you ruining her chances. Now come on I want to see our room."

The Archon laughed and entered the palace with her.

PostPosted: Fri Mar 22, 2019 7:28 pm
by Nordamy
The Torrijos brothers and Rejouis entered the palace and marveled at the luxury of it. They spoke amoung each other as they made their way to their rooms

"Did you remember the gift? The last thing we need is to he disrespectful of local customs"
Raul said

José responded
"I remembered. I got her Mayan Chocolate. I made sure it was light on the spice"
Mayan Chocolate is considered to be top of the line. Rather than sugar cane, it had some chili powder in it along with crushed chocolate beans and milk.The result was a brick red almost brown hunk of chocolate. Raul brought Coca tea to show off. He heard the Karthspiri were into hookah and cannabis. He refrained from bringing some despite it being a sign of status.

When they reached their room they started unpacking their belongings. José sipped some Coca tea to help ease his jetlag. Their security detail got the room next door. The team was strapped for war in case anyone tried anything with the president. Torrijos knew how to use a gun and could easily defend himself. José put the Mayan Chocolate in the mini fridge in the room so it wouldn't turn into soup. There was a mini bar in the room and the three each poured themselves a drink.

"Ok guys, we need to game plan here. We need to make sure to establish alliances with as many as possible. The Karthspiri are definitely allies. Ephyral is a possible ally. Everyone else is fair game with alliances."

Raul then stepped outside. He needed to do something so he decided to walk around the palace. He reached a lotus pond and he decided to check his messages in peace.

PostPosted: Thu Mar 28, 2019 11:51 am
by Allyrije
As the guests took to their rooms to unpack their things, the sun rose higher above the palace; lighting up the gardens of the palace and the beauty of the crystal blue waters surrounded by polished white marble. The only relief from the sun's heat was a calm breeze which swept through the corridors of the palace from the lake; although to some the replacement of doors with curtains and the replacement of windows with shutters in certain regions of the Empire was odd it certainly brought relief from the insufferable heat which ravaged swathes of the Empire for much of the year.

Seemingly disturbing this serenity was the exit of Prince Damadrii from his room, dressed in a jade blue jacket and baggy, but yet smart, black pants. Although dressed smartly, the way in-which the young Prince spoke and carried himself did not quite fit with his appearance. His dark red hair, braided in thick locks and decorated with engraved metal carvings as was tradition for unmarried Karthspiri men, contrasted with the calmness of his pale blue eyes but matched his fiery and liberal attitude.

He closed his door quietly behind him, not wanting to match the brash behaviour showed with his quarrel with his older sister, and made his way into the courtyard. He peeked curiously around the connecting corridors, looking to spot some of the guests. Unlike most Karthspiri, the Prince was relatively comfortable around foreigners and was even a little curious of their homelands. Upon noticing that none of the other guests were to be found, the Prince reluctantly settled for sitting by one of the ponds, watching the fish swim around their pristine home as the Llarelánn'Révine ensured his safety; however secure the Palace may have seemed.

The Empress, having just turned back around from waving guests to the servants who would accompany them to their rooms, pivoted back to face her Chief Maid, Prijanka, with the seemingly friendly look wiped from her face, "My dear, from what I've heard you've been mistreating those indentured to my household. As much as I'm aware that he may have broken protocol by touching one not indentured, you must come to understand that we are in the 21st Century and you cannot mistreat those in my service; let alone in-front of foreign guests. This is not the first time you've let me down like this Prijanka, you've been loyal to my family for as long as I can remember but if I hear of one more slip up I will make sure your mistreatment of indentured souls will not occur again. Do we understand one another?"

Prijanka nodded and coutseyed, "of course, your highness." She bowed and proceeded quickly into the palace, searching for guests to ensure all had reached their rooms as the Empress herself went to fetch her brother and sisters.

PostPosted: Thu Mar 28, 2019 12:27 pm
by Nuak
With the Royal family settled, the Princo left the room and found his way to the pond and saw the Prince. Figuring out his options, the Princo carefully walked to the other Prince, smiling and nudging the Prince.
"Hello there, Prince Damadrii Allyrius if I remember correctly?" the Princo said, making careful motions and grabbing a box of candy, popping one in his mouth, the Princo motioned the box to the Prince as he watched the stars.

PostPosted: Sat Mar 30, 2019 7:11 am
by The Land of the Ephyral
Yránair, Karthspire

"There she is." Spardikae whispered with partially contained excitement. The Archon followed her eyes to where the young woman in the green-and-gold saree stood. The Empress of Karthspire. "Are you sure we should give the gift without Thalaemon and Kaessara?" She asked him.

"They're taking a walk around the palace, I'm sure they'll be content." Anomedes assured her.

Sparalyka looked at the decorative box she held, and then back at the Empress. "Do you reckon she'll like it? We've not seen much of what these women wear and it's all very strange."

"It'd be discourteous to refuse." He pointed out. He continued to look at the Empress for a moment, both admiring and assessing. He still didn't know what to make of her. Barely a woman grown, yet in the position of the head of state. The months and years to come would show whether she had any aptitude for rule; though much of that lay in the hands of the elected government, or if she'd turn out to be the corrupt and ineffective type the legends always warned of. "Come." He said finally, leading Spardikae over towards the Empress, who upon his arrival turned to him.

"Your Majesty." The Archon greeted her, having swapped to English. "My name is Anomedes Gorgosios Lenaleos, son of Thalaemon, and grandson of Anomedes Asalinos, Archon of the Senate and Freeborn Landholders of Ephyra." He indicated Sparalyka , who still held the box, and who bowed her head before the young woman as he continued. "I present my sister and wife, Sparalyka Gorgosia Lenaleos. Your invitation and hospitality honours us your Majesty, and we have brought you a gift from Ephyra." The Archon stated. Stepping to the side slightly, he permitted Sparalyka to step forward who opened the box and with head still inclined, presented its contents to the Empress.

"A gold arm-bracelet, your Majesty." His wife proclaimed. "A fashionable choice for the ladies of the Freehold. Engraved with an elephant of your country, and an eye of ruby."

PostPosted: Sun Mar 31, 2019 1:25 pm
by Kawagishi
Just as the Ephyral delegation was presenting the Empress with their chosen gift, Princess Mayoko turned a nearby corner, her loudmouth of a daughter having finally retreated up to their room whilst she headed off to track Thyra down before too many noisy patrons gathered in a crowd around her. Despite the very sudden revelation that she had arrived just a second too late to be first in line for gifting time, Mayoko's buoyant expression neglected to falter for even a moment as she quietly positioned herself at a shaded spot just beyond the Archon's flank. At the very least, she could take the opportunity to find out kind of gift the Selians considered worthy of the illustrious Empress of Karthspire.

"Gods above, but the sun out here is truly a beast to be feared... should've brought a sunhat... and a really big one, too," the Crown Princess mumbled tiredly under her breath as she took notice of the overpowering strength of the sun's rays beating down on the brilliant white city of Yránair. As nice as the odd sunny summer holiday was, Mayoko would be foolish not to admit that she was much better accustomed to the temperatures in Paris or Munich as opposed to this veritable lakeside fortress on the arse end of the Thar Desert.

"Ooh, shiny," Mayoko suddenly whispered to herself as the Archon's wife... or sister... or both, apparently... anyways, as the Archon's female companion presented Empress Thyra with a gleaming golden bracelet, adorned quite tellingly with the engraving of an elephant. Full marks in Karthspiri Culture 101, at least.

"I wonder if they keep spares...," the Crown Princess muttered with a sigh as she started fishing around in her belongings for the gift she had hopefully remembered to bring that day.

PostPosted: Mon Apr 01, 2019 12:29 pm
by Nordamy
Raul put his phone away and started walking back to his room. He passed by some of the Llarelann Revine along the way back.

"Sirs, can you tell me where the prince is?"
Silence was his response

"Sirs, can you please tell me where the prince is?"
Silence again. He just walked past them rather than attempt to talk to them. After some wandering he passed by some leaders and their families. He recognized the princess of Japan and someone from the Archon's family. Some took note of his long black hair or the visible scar and tattoo on his hand, all markers of his previous life. His Santa Muerte necklace was visible. His brain was going a mile a minute as these people would look him over and take him for some cartel boss or terrorist thug. Never mind his knowledge of the political game or how the markets work. Simply could not be bothered by a rebel. He turned a corner and saw the Prince with a Nuak prince, the royals in conversation.

"Hello there Prince Damadrii Allyrius and Princo"
They motioned for him to sit, he complied. He saw that they were stargazing

"That star cluster right there is Kimi. The standard western constellation is Scorpio. I was born under Kimi. Kimi is the deity of death and eventual rebirth. He is associated with Santa Muerte and Santa Michael in the modern update of our syncretic folk ways."

They looked a tad uninterested in his love of the ancient ways and the stars. He shifted a bit in his seat

"So...any of you guys been to Cancun? It's a great place to spend the weekend"

He saw his brother José arrive. He parked himself next to Raul

"Where did you go? We got worried?"
Raul responded
"I'm fine"

"Look brother, your aware of the ris..."

"I know about the risk. If I could survive in a street gang ftom 13 to 18, I can do fine in a royal palace. Just don't worry about me"
José mumbled
"Your stab wounds say otherwise big brother"

Raul knew the princes were staring at him. He looked over at them, he was in no mood to give them lies. He cleared his throat.

"I had a rough upbringing so I made a living hustling and such...

He stopped before he could get ahead of himself.

"I don't know if you men drink but I did bring some for the party or for whenever you men want to get together.."

PostPosted: Mon Apr 01, 2019 2:17 pm
by Allyrije
Prince Damadrii

The Prince turns to the Princo, "I see you've done you're homework, though I doubt you'll be able to get the two of my names you've missed out," he smiles before continuing, "as for your offer of sweets I'll save my appetite for later and the party tomorrow. I do have a reputation to preserve, however sullied it already may be." He laughs a little before addressing Raul.

"Apologies if I seemed somewhat disinterested in what you had to say, that was not the case I can assure you. I am impressed by your eyesight though... it's midday and the pair of you are sat here stargazing... I didn't realise you two had a wish to blind yourselves." He lets out another short laugh before continuing, "To answer your question however, I've never actually had the good fortune to travel outside of the borders of our Empire. My sister's quite overprotective with us so I doubt, however much I fight her over it, being permitted to leave anytime soon. As for your past... that will make good conversation when we've had something to drink tomorrow. But for now my palette is too dry to take such stories with a sense of humour and I don't want to rack up a reputation as a sponge on the Palace's alcohol." He gets up and adjusts his suit jacket, "If I know my dear, but ever irritating sister, she'll be herding all her foreign oddities together for tea. Unless you wish to get the cold eye from her later, it would be best to follow me up to the roof terraces. And... for God's sake don't talk to the guards. You'd think they've no tongues." He starts leading the three to the roof terraces through the twisting corridors of the Palace.

Empress Thyra

The Empress looked upon her gift with a look of immense joy painted on her face, "I see that you've done some research, it's always nice when foreigners take the time to learn about our nation!" She slides the bangle onto her arm, "I'll make sure to wear this tomorrow evening. However... I must ask... if that's your wife, or your sister, then where is the other... unless..." she quickly looks away, seeming to try and wiggle out of the conversation as her cheeks turn red, "n-nevermind! That's none of my business regardless."

She turns around to face the Japanese Party before clapping to draw the attention of all around her, "As is tradition amongst many of the northern Karthspiri peoples, there will be no lunch. However, if you would be so kind, I'd be delighted to have you join me for tea and some light snacks on the roof terraces until tonight's dinner is served." She smiles and begins to lead them up to the roof terraces of the palace.

Roof Terrace

The Empress and the Prince, as well as all those following, arrived at the roof terrace at the same time; just as the palace's industrious and disciplined servants had finished setting the tables, plumping up the cushions and organising the light snacks in the centre of the table. Each of them moved over to one party of guests and guided them to their seats, pouring cups of chilled Athel tea for the guests before smiling and retreating to a sort of "Bar" where the servants waited to be called over as and when they were needed.

The sun was high in the sky, blazing down on the guests and painting much of the water surrounding the palace bright hues of orange; interrupted only by the reflection of the pristine marble buildings or Yránair. Birds flew through the air and the sound of their songs only added to the picturesque nature of the setting.

The Empress was the first to break the silence, speaking softly to her guests, "As many of you have had long journeys here, I thought it'd be best to leave the party to tomorrow, to allow you to all unjetleg yourselves but also to simply give you some time to relax. If any of you wish I'm more than happy to request a servant to play some music for us, unless you'd rather converse..." she's interrupted abruptly by three identical looking women; smaller than the Empress and very much smaller than the Prince.

They strode up the stairs with their hair in styles that not only matched one another but also matched that of the Empress. Their clothes were also green however, unlike the Empress they had opted for Llarelli style suits as opposed to Sarees. They quickly made their way to their seats.

"Apologies beloved sister, we were having some problems ensuring our hair and the decoration of it were up to scratch. We'll make sure we're not late again." All three bowed in unison and sat down, wiping the calm and relaxed look off of the face of the Empress.



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PostPosted: Mon Apr 01, 2019 2:38 pm
by Nuak
The Regino happily took the tea straight almost immediately, turning from an unruly sort to somewhat dignified looking while the rest of his party took a little more time to actively pick up the drinks, however, the Princo stayed compact in his seat, avoiding even looking at the servants and digging the ditch mentally in of which he hid the feeling of rudeness he was suddenly building up failing to thank the staff. The Princo turned his head instead to the Prince Damadrii, stealing quick glances and giving a small wave during the brief distraction but not enough to draw attention to the other guests, save for one member of his own party, Eklipso.

Beyond Princo Raolisto, Regino Kastilo and Rego Eklipso sat traditionally, with the Rego being slightly more smooth in his manners than his husband as they talked silently about their son, and the sudden intrusion of the other royal family members to the rooftop.

Glacia kept her unconcerned look, but again, she attempted to keep herself busy and try to not fall to habits, until she saw the Mexican leader, making a motion to speak later in her head.

Trestol looked on, stiff in movement, but occasionally look a more fluid moment and yawned into his hand, eyes drifting towards the location of his room and his bag and snapping back, shifting attention towards the Empress and her late guests

PostPosted: Fri Apr 05, 2019 11:14 am
by The Land of the Ephyral
Yránair, Karthspire

Sparalyka lifted her head as the young Empress took the offered gift from the box, and smiled as the jewellery was slid onto her arm. It looked splendid with her green-gold saree, and the older women felt a deep satisfaction, herself having played no small role in the selection of the gift. Fashion for a woman after all; who better to weigh in?

The Empress voiced her satisfaction with the gift, and then confusion of Ephyral customs regarding familial weddings. Her comments of confusion towards her husband drew a more sly smile to Sparalyka's lips, which she concealed by looking to the side, until the Empress excused herself to speak to the Japanese. She gracefully slipped back to the side of her brother, and absently brushed her dark blue selar before commenting. "She seemed pleased." She was itching to change into her more formal and prepared party wear for the coming day. Her current attire served purpose, but both she and Kaessara were eager to show proper Ephyral fashion. "Looks very nice on her, don't you agree?" She asked the Archon.

He nodded agreement. Sparalyka smiled again. The Empress was a beautiful young woman and both her husband and son had been glancing at her when able. She suspected a number of other guests had too. Trying to work out whether it was the royalty that enhanced the beauty or the reverse was difficult, but she found herself slightly envious of Thyra's youth and energy.

"I wonder who she'll marry. Do you know of any prominent Karthspiri men?" She mused aloud, directing the question to Anomedes.

With a shake of his head, he replied, "None at all. I imagine it'd be from a noble family though." The Archon paused, continuing to look at the Empress. "I wonder if they'll fight for her?"

She laughed. "I'm sure you'd take part."

Anomedes gave a shrug and teased the matter further. "I'm still fit, why couldn't I claim her?"

With another selar brush, she waved her hand dismissively with another laugh, and turned to see her son and his wife enter. Embracing Thalaemon warmly, she informed him that they'd given their gift. "The Empress was very happy. Don't mind your father, he's just thinking about winning her." She winked, leaving her son confused, and turned to Kaessara, giving her daughter-in-law a brief kiss on the lips. Pointing the gift out on the Empress' arm brought a smile to the young woman's face.

It was at that moment that the Empress announced tea, and the Lenaleos family followed the head of state onto the roof terrace and took their cups from the servants, taking their seats on the cushions.

The Empress' words at tea were interrupted by the arrival of three identical young women. Sparalyka watched with increasing amusement as they took their seats and spoke to the now visibly less settled Empress. "This is such a fun country." She said to her husband.

PostPosted: Mon Apr 15, 2019 6:35 am
by Nordamy
Garden
The Torrijos brothers laughed at the Prince's joke

"When you live in Mexico, it's a miracle you haven't been blinded"
José said

"Stargazing is something I picked up some time ago when I was deployed to rural Mexico in the communist uprising. Either that or go loco from boredom"

He saw the Prince's look of confusion

"My apologies for sprinkling in some Creole. You can take me out of Mexico but, you can't take the Mexican out of me"

He heard the call for tea go out

"We should continue this later over drinks gentlemen. I look forward to it"





Rooftop Terrace
Torrijos accepted the tea and tried it. It tasted like what he would imagine a fall candle would taste, spicey and milkey but not bad. José was busy talking with the Empress, the gift tucked under her arm. José was the person to always break the ice from the get go. She seemed pleased with the gift. He took another sip of the tea. Isabel was busy chatting with the Ephyral party. She sat across from him when their conversation finished

"Wonderful people. The Archon expressed interest in you as a new and dare I say, rising leader"

He nodded
"That's refreshing to know....I met with the prince over stargazing"

She laughed

"You and your stars"

He did have a knack for identifying stars in the heavens, their associated myths and the old astrology of the First Nations.

"Who do you think she'll marry?"

"Huh?"

"Hard of hearing? I said who do you think she will marry?"
She was referencing the Empress. The men folk of the Ephyra party kept glancing at her.

"Probably a royal or aristocrat. No way José. He's too much of a gilipolla"

Isabel snickered at his comment of calling his brother a fathead. He looked down at his hands at his death head tatoo, a reminder of Vår Señora den la Santa Muerte.

"Te guser ella va?"

"Sija, ella salvó meg"

José came over to them and started talking
"She likes the gift and appreciates us coming to the party. Smart move getting the Mayan Chocolate."

"Better than what you wanted to bring brother. Tequila? Smart one gilipolla"

José shrugged and drank his tea, giving off the impression of being dignified and upper class. Years ago they were barrio boys, now they were sipping tea in Karthspir.

"This is a fun country. What do you all think about coming here again at some point in the near future?"

"Sounds good"
Raul responded
Isabel nodded