The Emperor's Birthday (see OOC/RSVP thread)

[Excalbia]

OOC: Before posting here, please see the OOC/RSVP thread here: viewtopic.php?f=4&t=440611. A note about timing: this takes place after the Emperor’s State Visit to the Caldan Union.

Preparations for the Emperor’s Birthday had begun months ago. Now, as the day approached those preparations were coming to fruition. The Summer Palace was finally ready for the formal gala - banners and garlands of flowers had been hung, the trees were in bloom, and the great glass doors had been opened allowing guests to pass freely from the formal lawn into the interior gardens of the palace. Tables had been placed among the fountains and pools, and set with fine linens and china. An army of stewards were on hand to attend to the guests and the Imperial Coast Guard was ready to begin ferrying the guests from Citadel Island, the heart of the capital, to the Imperial Preserve Island.

The Island, the smaller of the two principal islands standing at the confluence of the Valmiera and Excalbia Rivers, had long been the Imperial Family’s summer residence and private retreat. The Summer Palace itself was built in the style of a European orangerie - like a great glass botanical conservatory or greenhouse - except that it included residential suites, dining rooms and the Grand Ballroom. The Grand Ballroom stood at the center of palace and with its glass doors opened it almost seemed to blend seamlessly into the formal gardens.

A brick path led from the island’s private dock through the gardens to the palace. To either side of the gardens stood smaller houses, each a mansion its own right, that were used as guest houses by Imperial Family. Somewhat more modest houses further from the palace housed the Island’s staff. Beyond those stood fields and barns that provided fresh food for the palace and its residents and woods and meadows that provided for recreation.

Before arriving, each guest received a list of events:

Today

6 pm - Welcome Reception
7 pm - Arrival of the Imperial Family
8 pm - Dinner
10 pm - Dancing

Tomorrow

11 am - The Emperor’s Address to the Imperial Senate
1 pm - Opening Day Game of the All-Excalbian Baseball League between the Citadel Knights and the Landing Narwhals
8 pm - Concert at the Imperial State Opera

[Upper Virginia]

President Alex Holmes was one of the first guests to arrive. As a former general he tended to be precisely on time, which often made him early for social events. The President, dressed in a dark gray business suit, was accompanied by a younger woman with long raven black hair dressed in a dark blue evening gown. Some elements of the Upper Virginian press had taken to calling Mrs. Bianca Holmes a trophy wife - or worse. The truth was far less salacious. As a military officer, a general, a revolutionary and a key part of former President Becka Harrison’s administration, Holmes had simply never taken time to find a mate or start a family. Only in the final days of the Harrison Administration had he met Bianca, a young but well-regarded violinist.

Bianca could sense her husband’s nervousness as they walked up the brick path arm in arm towards the brightly lit Summer Palace. “Don’t worry,” she whispered to her husband, “you’ll do fine.”

Holmes nodded, chagrined that his anxiety over his first state visit as President had shown through.

“And don’t worry,” Bianca continued, “no one but me can tell that you’re nervous.”

The President smiled and patted his wife’s hand, certain that she possessed the power to read his mind. Her own sly smile only reinforced that belief.

As they reached the Summer Palace, a woman with brownish-blonde hair dressed in a red gown and wearing square-framed glasses approached the Upper Virginian couple and bowed. “Your Excellency,” she said pleasantly. She extended her hand to the President. “Lady Christina Freedman, Minister of State. Welcome to Excalbia.”

The President shook her hand. “Your Excellency,” he said uncertain of the proper title, “I’m pleased to be here.” He turned to the woman beside him. “My wife, Bianca Holmes.”

“Madame,” the Minister said with another bow. “You’re welcome.”

“Thank you,” Bianca said.

A steward appeared and gestured into the Grand Ballroom of the Summer Palace. “Your Excellencies, please come in. May I offer you something to drink?”

The President and First Lady bowed slightly to the Minister of State and followed the steward into the Palace.

[St Alexandria]

The Prince, well into his seventies, wore a tuxedo with such a sharp cut that one could assume he was twenty years younger. He was flat-bellied, flat-chested, and walked with inveterate confidence and dignity. His plump and middle-aged wife latched smoothly onto his arm, dressed modestly in a thin shawl and a knee-length, crisp white dress.

In recent times, or indeed at any time at all, Francis had seldom been able to extend his arm beyond the borders of St Alexandria. He had indulged much of his youth in quelling rebellions within the home counties, giving his all to cease the spread of communism. And he had equally spent much of his old age in Charlesbourg, representing the monarchy as regent. This was his first time in Excalbia. The people seemed nice, the civil rights seemed decent. He had only read about the country in newspapers prior. Economic security, political freedoms, that sort of thing. It was hardly interesting for a famed military general such as himself.

The sun that shone over the windows of the Summer Palace seemed to follow them indoors almost transcendentally. Upon entering the hall, a female walked forward, smiled, and gave a short curtsy, first to the Prince Regent ("Your Royal Highness, thank you for coming. I am Lady Christina Freeman, Minister of State. Welcome to Excalbia") and then a second to Lady Marie ("Your Royal Highness, thank you for coming.") Francis noted the way the woman spoke with more pleasure to him than to his wife, and hid a smirk under a diplomatic smile.

"Thank you indeed for your invitation, Madame. I look forward to indulging in the celebrations His Imperial Majesty has to offer." Francis glanced at the decorative list of events that he had been offered. "Right, the Reception. Shall we go, Marie? Thank you again."

[Oberreich]

Princess Leopolda led the way, walking only a half step ahead of her two cousins. Both women were dressed in one of a kind hand made gowns. The Princess's was a dark brick red silk the emphasized her long slender form. Anne Sofia, on the Princess's right wore black, in the belief it would be thinning, and the architectural design of the skirt displayed the dress makers skill. The young duke of Hartstein walked shyly to the left of the Princess, wearing a navy shawl lapel dinner jacket, with black trousers. It was the 16 year old's first time wearing it, as will as his first time abroad.

The duchess of Mannfeld giggled nervously and whispered in Leopolda's ear. The older women tried to be serious a given her younger cousin a scolding look, but instead, broke out in laughter. "Anne Sofia, you are trouble! " It was then that the trio was approached by their welcomerer. All three instantly adopted the serious but relaxed demeanour, given the appearance of nonchalance and superiority.

[Grubaria]

One of the last guests to arrive, Chancellor Hrogg Ernraci, walks in quietly. He's dressed in a black suit, with his arm clasped around the waist of his wife, Summer Ernraci. They both look nervous, as this is their first time at an international event like this. Hrogg looks behind him, and motions towards two men dressed in black suits like his. "Are you going to stand outside? Come on!" he says to them. They jog over to him, and take up positions at either side of him and his wife. Hrogg then goes off in search of other guests he can socialize with.

[Excalbia]

The Prince, well into his seventies, wore a tuxedo with such a sharp cut that one could assume he was twenty years younger. He was flat-bellied, flat-chested, and walked with inveterate confidence and dignity. His plump and middle-aged wife latched smoothly onto his arm, dressed modestly in a thin shawl and a knee-length, crisp white dress.

In recent times, or indeed at any time at all, Francis had seldom been able to extend his arm beyond the borders of St Alexandria. He had indulged much of his youth in quelling rebellions within the home counties, giving his all to cease the spread of communism. And he had equally spent much of his old age in Charlesbourg, representing the monarchy as regent. This was his first time in Excalbia. The people seemed nice, the civil rights seemed decent. He had only read about the country in newspapers prior. Economic security, political freedoms, that sort of thing. It was hardly interesting for a famed military general such as himself.

The sun that shone over the windows of the Summer Palace seemed to follow them indoors almost transcendentally. Upon entering the hall, a female walked forward, smiled, and gave a short curtsy, first to the Prince Regent ("Your Royal Highness, thank you for coming. I am Lady Christina Freeman, Minister of State. Welcome to Excalbia") and then a second to Lady Marie ("Your Royal Highness, thank you for coming.") Francis noted the way the woman spoke with more pleasure to him than to his wife, and hid a smirk under a diplomatic smile.

"Thank you indeed for your invitation, Madame. I look forward to indulging in the celebrations His Imperial Majesty has to offer." Francis glanced at the decorative list of events that he had been offered. "Right, the Reception. Shall we go, Marie? Thank you again."

A steward dressed in blue coat and trousers met Prince Francis and Lady Marie with a deep bow. “Your Royal Highnesses,” he gestured towards the interior of the Great Ballroom, “this way please.” He led the couple passed fountains and pools filled with water lillies and a variety of fruit trees to the main floor of the ballroom, which itself was suspended above a shallow indoor pool.

As they approached the first of several footbridges crossing the pool, a thin, white-haired gentleman dressed in a tuxedo or an old-fashioned cut and walking with an elegant walking stick. He bowed at the couple and the steward paused and bowed in return.

“Lord Solomon,” the steward said to the gentleman, “may I present His Royal Highness Prince Francis of St. Alexandria and his wife, Lady Marie.” Turning to the couple, he continued, “Your Royal Highness, His Excellency Lord Solomon Myers, Minister of Labour and Welfare.”

Lord Solomon smiled and nodded. “Your Royal Highnesses, welcome to Excalbia.” He gestured with his walking stick across the small bridge. “May I accompany you? I confess that I’ve heard little about St. Alexandria and am curious to hear about your nation.”

[Excalbia]

Princess Leopolda led the way, walking only a half step ahead of her two cousins. Both women were dressed in one of a kind hand made gowns. The Princess's was a dark brick red silk the emphasized her long slender form. Anne Sofia, on the Princess's right wore black, in the belief it would be thinning, and the architectural design of the skirt displayed the dress makers skill. The young duke of Hartstein walked shyly to the left of the Princess, wearing a navy shawl lapel dinner jacket, with black trousers. It was the 16 year old's first time wearing it, as will as his first time abroad.

The duchess of Mannfeld giggled nervously and whispered in Leopolda's ear. The older women tried to be serious a given her younger cousin a scolding look, but instead, broke out in laughter. "Anne Sofia, you are trouble! " It was then that the trio was approached by their welcomerer. All three instantly adopted the serious but relaxed demeanour, given the appearance of nonchalance and superiority.

“Your Highness, Duchess, Duke,” the middle-aged gentleman said with a bow, “welcome to the Holy Empire and to the Summer Palace.” The gentleman was dressed in modern-cut tuxedo with a royal blue tie and cumberbund. “I am Lord Alfred Landis, Chamberlain to His Imperial Majesty. I trust that your journey was uneventful. We are pleased that you could come.”

[Excalbia]

One of the last guests to arrive, Chancellor Hrogg Ernraci, walks in quietly. He's dressed in a black suit, with his arm clasped around the waist of his wife, Summer Ernraci. They both look nervous, as this is their first time at an international event like this. Hrogg looks behind him, and motions towards two men dressed in black suits like his. "Are you going to stand outside? Come on!" he says to them. They jog over to him, and take up positions at either side of him and his wife. Hrogg then goes off in search of other guests he can socialize with.

A gentleman with sandy blonde hair wearing a conservative tuxedo approached Chancellor Ernraci and his party. The gentleman bowed slightly. “Your Excellency,” he said, “welcome.” He offered his hand to Ernraci. “Sir Adam Taurins, Deputy Minister of State. It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

[St Alexandria]

Lord Solomon smiled and nodded. “Your Royal Highnesses, welcome to Excalbia.” He gestured with his walking stick across the small bridge. “May I accompany you? I confess that I’ve heard little about St. Alexandria and am curious to hear about your nation.”

Prince Francis smiled diplomatically at the Minister for Labour and Welfare. "Thank you, Lord Myers. Yes, of course. I must admit we're a rather isolated people. This is partially given to how we're situated on an island, and again partially due to our history, though I should like to say that equal to our isolationism, we are very proud in the maintenance of our democracy. It wasn't many years ago that a communist revolution threatened to depose our very long-lasting conservative regime. However, with the hammer of democracy, our nation prevailed, and has continued to prevail against all her enemies." Francis laughed. "You must forgive me, Minister, it's very difficult for an old general like myself to contain the memories of his pride."

Marie commented, "Francis led the attack on the Andrewsbourg Revolt himself, and won the Order of St Louis for it."

"Now now, Marie, no need to brag," Francis said heartily. "Tell me, Minister, do you find being Minister of Labour and Welfare a particularly stressful job in a nation such as Excalbia?"

[A m e n r i a]

A circle of light and darkness appeared on the ground just in front of the palace, then a spiraling stream of light and darkness came out of the circle before materializing into a tall, slim, winged man and an almost equally tall and slim woman next to him. The man folded his wings, which disappeared and then turned to the nearest guard. "Excuse me, is this where the event is held? My apologies for arriving at this time, I had some dire multiversal affairs I had to tend to."

[Grubaria]

A gentleman with sandy blonde hair wearing a conservative tuxedo approached Chancellor Ernraci and his party. The gentleman bowed slightly. “Your Excellency,” he said, “welcome.” He offered his hand to Ernraci. “Sir Adam Taurins, Deputy Minister of State. It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

Hrogg responds with a hearty handshake. "It's a pleasure to meet you as well, Sir Adam Taurins." His speech quickens, and he becomes visibly exited. "I have never had the opportunity to meet an Emperor before!" He returns to his earlier quiet and reserved composure, and gives a slight bow. "Excuse me, I have not been in office long, and as such I am not used to functions such as this."

[Excalbia]

Prince Francis smiled diplomatically at the Minister for Labour and Welfare. "Thank you, Lord Myers. Yes, of course. I must admit we're a rather isolated people. This is partially given to how we're situated on an island, and again partially due to our history, though I should like to say that equal to our isolationism, we are very proud in the maintenance of our democracy. It wasn't many years ago that a communist revolution threatened to depose our very long-lasting conservative regime. However, with the hammer of democracy, our nation prevailed, and has continued to prevail against all her enemies." Francis laughed. "You must forgive me, Minister, it's very difficult for an old general like myself to contain the memories of his pride."

Marie commented, "Francis led the attack on the Andrewsbourg Revolt himself, and won the Order of St Louis for it."

"Now now, Marie, no need to brag," Francis said heartily. "Tell me, Minister, do you find being Minister of Labour and Welfare a particularly stressful job in a nation such as Excalbia?"

Lord Solomon nodded politely as he listened to the Prince and his wife. “Most impressive,” the Minister began. “Your leadership must be an inspiration to your people, Your Highness.”

The Minister gave a slight shrug and a half smile in response to the Prince’s question. “It is not particularly stressful, I suppose. Certainly, nothing approaching the burden of leading troops in the field, as you have done, Your Highness. However, politics does carry its own stresses. When you put a number of strong-willed people together in a legislative body or a political party or even in the Cabinet, it can be difficult to marry those divergent visions into a unified position, even when we are in agreement on broad objectives,” his smile broadened, “much less when various factions disagree.”

Lord Solomon shifted to place more weight on his walking stick. “I hope that your presence here is a sign that your nation is emerging from the isolation that you described. We are always interested in establishing friendly relations with our democratic states.”

[Excalbia]

A circle of light and darkness appeared on the ground just in front of the palace, then a spiraling stream of light and darkness came out of the circle before materializing into a tall, slim, winged man and an almost equally tall and slim woman next to him. The man folded his wings, which disappeared and then turned to the nearest guard. "Excuse me, is this where the event is held? My apologies for arriving at this time, I had some dire multiversal affairs I had to tend to."

The blue uniformed woman that the winged gentleman took for a guard was, in fact General Rachel Gertrude, Commander of the Imperial Home Army. She wore the formal mess dress of the Imperial Army - a blue tuxedo cut jacket with gold braid over blue trousers with a gold stripe down the leg. Her uniform was adorned with medals and she wore a sword and scabbard.

General Gertrude bowing slightly to the gentleman and his escort. “Yes, sir,” she said, “this is the Summer Palace. And no apologies are necessary, things just seem to be getting underway.” She gave a half smile. “An impressive entrance.”

Coming to attention and bowing again, she introduced herself. “General Rachel Gertrude, Imperial Army. And to whom do I have the pleasure?”

[Excalbia]

Hrogg responds with a hearty handshake. "It's a pleasure to meet you as well, Sir Adam Taurins." His speech quickens, and he becomes visibly exited. "I have never had the opportunity to meet an Emperor before!" He returns to his earlier quiet and reserved composure, and gives a slight bow. "Excuse me, I have not been in office long, and as such I am not used to functions such as this."

“No need to apologize, Your Excellency,” Sir Adam said with a smile. “There is always a first time for everything. I was quite beside myself the first time I was called upon to brief His Imperial Majesty.”

The veteran diplomat folded his arms behind his back and continued to smile pleasantly. “I’m afraid that I am not very familiar with your country. I would be interested to hear about it.”

[A m e n r i a]

A circle of light and darkness appeared on the ground just in front of the palace, then a spiraling stream of light and darkness came out of the circle before materializing into a tall, slim, winged man and an almost equally tall and slim woman next to him. The man folded his wings, which disappeared and then turned to the nearest guard. "Excuse me, is this where the event is held? My apologies for arriving at this time, I had some dire multiversal affairs I had to tend to."

The blue uniformed woman that the winged gentleman took for a guard was, in fact General Rachel Gertrude, Commander of the Imperial Home Army. She wore the formal mess dress of the Imperial Army - a blue tuxedo cut jacket with gold braid over blue trousers with a gold stripe down the leg. Her uniform was adorned with medals and she wore a sword and scabbard.

General Gertrude bowing slightly to the gentleman and his escort. “Yes, sir,” she said, “this is the Summer Palace. And no apologies are necessary, things just seem to be getting underway.” She gave a half smile. “An impressive entrance.”

Coming to attention and bowing again, she introduced herself. “General Rachel Gertrude, Imperial Army. And to whom do I have the pleasure?”

Cheonsa's eyes widened at the moment the Excalbian woman in blue introduced herself. She was a female military leader, which reminded him of Amenria's very own Heavenly General. A thought of challenging the person before him crossed his mind. "Thank you. Amenrians are known to make wonderful entrances. I'm Cheonsa, Heavenly Emperor of Amenria." He gestured to the woman next to him. "This is Camille. She'll be accompanying me tonight. Our daughters should be arriving here shortly, so if you see vampire twins, one in a black dress and another in white, you'll know it's them." He calmly smiled, an aura of kindness and tranquility emitted from his presence.

[West Phoenicia]

The Boeing VC-25 dubbed WP Royal One was the state of the art in the West Phoenician VIP Fleet. 26 crew consisting of a pilot, co- pilot and flight engineer served in the cockpit while 23 crew attendants took care of the needs of the passengers.
The custom built aircraft allowed for up to 80 passengers, with meeting quarters, sleeping quarters, lounge and reception.

The flight today consisted of Queen Alotta Gryphon-Bush, Prince Glenton Gryphon-Bush III and Princess Royal Arsinoe Gryphon-Bush II. The Deputy Prime Minister, a number of religious clergy, ladies-in-waiting, servants and members of the Imperial Guard who looked after the royal family.

They were enroute to The Holy Empire of Excalbia. A nation they had not alot of contact with but due to international diplomacy were looking to meet new nations for friendship, trade and alliances.

A number of aides were on board briefing the royal family on the nation of Excalbia and the upcoming Emperors birthday.

West Phoenicia was a nation of hospitality and they had some grand gifts to deliver to the emperor.
When they were within an hour of arrival the royal hairdressers, keepers of the wardrobe and jewels and other servants began to dress the royal family and the Deputy prime minister.

"Excalbia is no West Phoenicia but our great nation will be on show during this event. Let Excalbia and other invited nations view a truly wonderful and powerful kingdom," Deputy Prime Minister Countess Tia High said, she was dressed in a long sapphire coloured louis vuitton gown. She had a string of pearls around her neck with matching freshwater cultured pearl bracelets. Her hair was piled high on her head fastened with ivory combs.

"We will be the topic on everyones lips as usual," Queen Alotta said as her personal make up artist finished the touches to her eyeliner.
Queen Alotta wore a Luxury Arabic Ball Gown Gold Lace Evening Dresses Long Sleeve Quinceanera Dress. The dress cost a small fortune, but West Phoenicia was all about indulgence, glamour and opulence. She had on a Tiffany & Co Sealife necklace, encased with West Phoenician diamonds and her mistress of the jewels had a diamond tiara ready to place on her head.

The Prince was dressed in an elegant tunic with splashes of gold dust and charcoal black pants. His sister Princess Royal Arsinoe had on a long ivory coloured ball gown, large white gold hoop earrings and white gold necklace. She wore a gold diadem with a scorpion symbol representing the house of Gryphon-Bush.
Her ladies in waiting wore simple Grecian looking dresses with white hold head bands.

It was a pleasant trip, cars had been arranged for them at the airport. Silver rolls royce for the royal family, Deptuty Prime Minister and the ladies in waiting and religious priests and priestess.
Suburban vans for the security detail with the other staff not attending the ball staying onboard the aircraft.

The rolls royces drove through Citadel Island, the heart of the capital heading to the dock that would ferry them across to the Imperial Preserve Island.
The royal family and the Deputy Prime Minister looked out into the city streets. It was getting dark but there were still plenty of people out on the streets. It was a nice little clean city. It looked pleasant enough.

It was not long before they had arrived at the Summer Palace of the Emperor of Excalbia.

"Please announce the arrival of Queen Alotta Gryphon-Bush, Queen of the Confederate Kingdom of West Phoenicia. Prince Glenton Gryphon-Bush III, Princess Royal Arsinoe Gryphon-Bush II and Deptuty Prime Minister Countess Tia High," the head of the Imperial Guard said to a servant who was waiting outside the Summer Palace.

[St Alexandria]

Prince Francis smiled diplomatically at the Minister for Labour and Welfare. "Thank you, Lord Myers. Yes, of course. I must admit we're a rather isolated people. This is partially given to how we're situated on an island, and again partially due to our history, though I should like to say that equal to our isolationism, we are very proud in the maintenance of our democracy. It wasn't many years ago that a communist revolution threatened to depose our very long-lasting conservative regime. However, with the hammer of democracy, our nation prevailed, and has continued to prevail against all her enemies." Francis laughed. "You must forgive me, Minister, it's very difficult for an old general like myself to contain the memories of his pride."

Marie commented, "Francis led the attack on the Andrewsbourg Revolt himself, and won the Order of St Louis for it."

"Now now, Marie, no need to brag," Francis said heartily. "Tell me, Minister, do you find being Minister of Labour and Welfare a particularly stressful job in a nation such as Excalbia?"

Lord Solomon nodded politely as he listened to the Prince and his wife. “Most impressive,” the Minister began. “Your leadership must be an inspiration to your people, Your Highness.”

The Minister gave a slight shrug and a half smile in response to the Prince’s question. “It is not particularly stressful, I suppose. Certainly, nothing approaching the burden of leading troops in the field, as you have done, Your Highness. However, politics does carry its own stresses. When you put a number of strong-willed people together in a legislative body or a political party or even in the Cabinet, it can be difficult to marry those divergent visions into a unified position, even when we are in agreement on broad objectives,” his smile broadened, “much less when various factions disagree.”

Lord Solomon shifted to place more weight on his walking stick. “I hope that your presence here is a sign that your nation is emerging from the isolation that you described. We are always interested in establishing friendly relations with our democratic states.”

The Prince Regent tilted his head forward and smiled wisely at the Minister. "Factionalism is a stress I have had to put up with for my entire life, Lord Solomon; I can assure you that I'm no stranger to its burden. On the matter of beginning positive relations, however... indeed, while the Empire has seemed hospitable thus far, I would however prefer to have such matters discussed with the Imperial Chancellor."

[Dytarma]

Dyérkovak Bulan, his sister, wife, and daughter all enter the Palace looking at the beauty of the interior as well as the exterior. Dyérkovak is wearing a standard jet black suit and rose red tie with a pin of the Dytarmish flag on his left breast pocket, while all three of the women are wearing cyan blue dresses with the same Dytarmish pin on the left breast, and a small hand bag to either the left or right of the person. While this isn't Dyérkovak's first time out of the country, for everyone else, this is their first time traveling abroad.

They soon meet their welcomer who tells the a little history about the Palace and how it was made and why. After a 5 minute talk, the welcomer then bids goodbye as he has other guests to welcome into as well. Dyérkovak's family then look around the Palace a bit more, discussing it's amazing interior design and architecture.

[Brasland]

As he set foot on the island, Prince Leopold of Brasland felt a sudden excitement rushing through his body. It was his first official trip abroad representing his brother, King Georg IV, and although he was by nature a private person, it was nice to be invited to a party, especially one celebrating the Emperor, of whom his family was very fond. A steward approached the prince and greeted him. He then guided Leopold to the Summer Palace. The young prince followed him, pleasantly chatting with the courtier.

[New Mushroom Kingdom]

Vince was at the airport, having landed at the airport after a journey to the country of Excalbia, which he had not visited before. He had taken advantage of the journey to read the dossier of information prepared about the event and the countries involved in it. Particularly, he was looking to see if there's anyone of particular interest he would like to talk to. Excalbia itself was of some interest, being the host nation of the event. The information he had obtained pointed to a protestant Christian constitutional monarchy, and was also unsuprirsing in the other areas, bar their treaty with some other nations that involved rather substnatial cooperation that was initially unexpected. The period of regency in the country did make him think of the events that had unfolded previously back home, even if he wasn't around at the end of those. Establishing friendly relations would be good outcome, but it was unlikely to be his primary goal on that front, even if his personal goal was to enjoy their country and the events he'd be taking part in.

The other attending nation of St. Alexandria was much more interesting to the Regent. While the information available to him was insufficient about their social and economic spheres, the political status and history of the country intrigued Vince out of similarity to certain positions the NMK's own government held, both explicitly and implicitly. Being a very small island nation was the start of it, because while his country was not small it was an island, but the size bought thoughts of larger, more influential powers potentially interfering or taking over the place and the isolation combined with previous geopolitical events did not help with these thoughts.

Having a largely democratic system of government under an absolute monarchy was unusual for him, normally the democratic monarchies were constitutional, and indeed this one was de facto if not de jure. The two other things of interest was the government's history with Communism, as well as the current monarch. The NMK was very anti-Communist, it was an illegal ideology and one of the foci of the Secret Police's disappearances. The unusual part was that they won a communist revolution, instead of the country becoming a commie hellhole and terrible things happening to the deposed government as had been observed on previous occasions. Hopefully there wouldn't be any recurrence of that there. Finally, there was the fact that the monarch was underage, like the NMK's Emperor but older. For an absolute monarchy, even one that rarely exercises it's powers, an underage ruler could be quite the problem, even if it did give him a job...perhaps talking with their own Regent about this would prove interesting and useful in the future.

The pair of Secret Service operatives that would be protecting him if possible got out first, and the three of them shortly afterwards got in the car that would be driving them to the Summer Palace where the event was being held. While the drive was uneventful, Vince did take the chance to look at the surroundings in Excalbia as they passed by all the buildings. More interesting than just sitting and waiting, even if the architecture tends to look similar, given that most places do not have unique, unusual styles or building types.

He wasn't expecting that the final part of the journey would not be via car but instead via ferry, with his destination apparently being located on an island. The surprise wasn't annoying though, especially since he hadn't traveled on any ferry in forever so was able to enjoy the experience as something he didn't do much and was left in a good mood for the actual event, and after the short journey he arrived at the palace.

Never particularly one for glamour and fancy outfits, unlike others back home, he was at the Palace not in any kind of formal uniform (as if he had one anyway...) or anything with large amounts of decorations, but instead wearing a designer, but plain, outfit much like someone would wear to work, except more formal, expensive and higher quality. He went inside and wondered if anyone would be greeting or welcoming, and as it turns out there was someone ready to do that. He approached this person and said "Why hello, I take it you are one of the people responsible for welcoming others to your event? I'm happy to meet you in that case."

[Excalbia]

Cheonsa's eyes widened at the moment the Excalbian woman in blue introduced herself. She was a female military leader, which reminded him of Amenria's very own Heavenly General. A thought of challenging the person before him crossed his mind. "Thank you. Amenrians are known to make wonderful entrances. I'm Cheonsa, Heavenly Emperor of Amenria." He gestured to the woman next to him. "This is Camille. She'll be accompanying me tonight. Our daughters should be arriving here shortly, so if you see vampire twins, one in a black dress and another in white, you'll know it's them." He calmly smiled, an aura of kindness and tranquility emitted from his presence.

“Your Imperial Majesties,” General Gertrude said with another slight bow, “you are both welcome.”

She smiled slightly at the Heavenly Emperor’s description of his daughters. The words heavenly and vampire did not go together in Excalbian tellings of the old vampire myths, but then these visitors were clearly not myths. While mythical beings come to life were by no means common in Excalbia, there had been a few encounters over the years with such visitors from the far corners of the multiverse.

“I will be certain to inform the stewards to be on the lookout for your daughters and to send them your way upon arrival.” The General gestured into the Great Hall of the Summer Palace. “Please, Your Imperial Majesties, the part awaits. I believe that our Emperor will be making his appearance shortly.”

[Excalbia]

The Boeing VC-25 dubbed WP Royal One was the state of the art in the West Phoenician VIP Fleet. 26 crew consisting of a pilot, co- pilot and flight engineer served in the cockpit while 23 crew attendants took care of the needs of the passengers.
The custom built aircraft allowed for up to 80 passengers, with meeting quarters, sleeping quarters, lounge and reception.

The flight today consisted of Queen Alotta Gryphon-Bush, Prince Glenton Gryphon-Bush III and Princess Royal Arsinoe Gryphon-Bush II. The Deputy Prime Minister, a number of religious clergy, ladies-in-waiting, servants and members of the Imperial Guard who looked after the royal family.

They were enroute to The Holy Empire of Excalbia. A nation they had not alot of contact with but due to international diplomacy were looking to meet new nations for friendship, trade and alliances.

A number of aides were on board briefing the royal family on the nation of Excalbia and the upcoming Emperors birthday.

West Phoenicia was a nation of hospitality and they had some grand gifts to deliver to the emperor.
When they were within an hour of arrival the royal hairdressers, keepers of the wardrobe and jewels and other servants began to dress the royal family and the Deputy prime minister.

"Excalbia is no West Phoenicia but our great nation will be on show during this event. Let Excalbia and other invited nations view a truly wonderful and powerful kingdom," Deputy Prime Minister Countess Tia High said, she was dressed in a long sapphire coloured louis vuitton gown. She had a string of pearls around her neck with matching freshwater cultured pearl bracelets. Her hair was piled high on her head fastened with ivory combs.

"We will be the topic on everyones lips as usual," Queen Alotta said as her personal make up artist finished the touches to her eyeliner.
Queen Alotta wore a Luxury Arabic Ball Gown Gold Lace Evening Dresses Long Sleeve Quinceanera Dress. The dress cost a small fortune, but West Phoenicia was all about indulgence, glamour and opulence. She had on a Tiffany & Co Sealife necklace, encased with West Phoenician diamonds and her mistress of the jewels had a diamond tiara ready to place on her head.

The Prince was dressed in an elegant tunic with splashes of gold dust and charcoal black pants. His sister Princess Royal Arsinoe had on a long ivory coloured ball gown, large white gold hoop earrings and white gold necklace. She wore a gold diadem with a scorpion symbol representing the house of Gryphon-Bush.
Her ladies in waiting wore simple Grecian looking dresses with white hold head bands.

It was a pleasant trip, cars had been arranged for them at the airport. Silver rolls royce for the royal family, Deptuty Prime Minister and the ladies in waiting and religious priests and priestess.
Suburban vans for the security detail with the other staff not attending the ball staying onboard the aircraft.

The rolls royces drove through Citadel Island, the heart of the capital heading to the dock that would ferry them across to the Imperial Preserve Island.
The royal family and the Deputy Prime Minister looked out into the city streets. It was getting dark but there were still plenty of people out on the streets. It was a nice little clean city. It looked pleasant enough.

It was not long before they had arrived at the Summer Palace of the Emperor of Excalbia.

"Please announce the arrival of Queen Alotta Gryphon-Bush, Queen of the Confederate Kingdom of West Phoenicia. Prince Glenton Gryphon-Bush III, Princess Royal Arsinoe Gryphon-Bush II and Deptuty Prime Minister Countess Tia High," the head of the Imperial Guard said to a servant who was waiting outside the Summer Palace.

The steward nodded slightly. “Of course. Please follow me.”

The blue coated steward led the royal party to the great glass doors of the Summer Palace’s Great Hall. With the doors slid into their fully open position, the front gardens and portico seemed to flow seamlessly into the Palace. The Great Hall itself lived up to its name. The glass ceiling rose three stories above the floor. Full size trees and grassy indoor gardens alive with a variety of flowering plants created paths leading to the main floor of the Hall, which was suspended above and indoor pool filled with water lillies. Several small bridges crossed the pool and allowed the guests to flow back and forth from the outer areas of the hall onto the main floor. Second floor balconies jutted out from the four walls of the Hall and were draped with blue and gold banners.

The steward stopped and whispered to the Chief Usher, who announced the arrival of the Confederate Queen. “Queen Alotta Gryphon-Bush, Queen of the Confederate Kingdom of West Phoenicia, Prince Glenton Gryphon-Bush III, Princess Royal Arsinoe Gryphon-Bush II and Deputy Prime Minister Countess Tia High,” the man said in a loud voice. Several guests turned and looked while others continued to mingle.

[Excalbia]

The Prince Regent tilted his head forward and smiled wisely at the Minister. "Factionalism is a stress I have had to put up with for my entire life, Lord Solomon; I can assure you that I'm no stranger to its burden. On the matter of beginning positive relations, however... indeed, while the Empire has seemed hospitable thus far, I would however prefer to have such matters discussed with the Imperial Chancellor."

Lord Solomon nodded. “Of course, Your Highness. I shall endeavor to find Her Excellency, Lady Ashley, and point her in your direction.” With a slight bow the Minister added, “Please enjoy the reception. I believe His Imperial Majesty should be arriving shortly.”

[Excalbia]

Dyérkovak Bulan, his sister, wife, and daughter all enter the Palace looking at the beauty of the interior as well as the exterior. Dyérkovak is wearing a standard jet black suit and rose red tie with a pin of the Dytarmish flag on his left breast pocket, while all three of the women are wearing cyan blue dresses with the same Dytarmish pin on the left breast, and a small hand bag to either the left or right of the person. While this isn't Dyérkovak's first time out of the country, for everyone else, this is their first time traveling abroad.

They soon meet their welcomer who tells the a little history about the Palace and how it was made and why. After a 5 minute talk, the welcomer then bids goodbye as he has other guests to welcome into as well. Dyérkovak's family then look around the Palace a bit more, discussing it's amazing interior design and architecture.

A gentleman approached King Bulan and his family. Dressed, as most of the male Excalbian guests were, in a black tuxedo. His white hair framed a round, tan face and a broad smile. The man gave a slight bow. “Greetings and welcome,” the man said. “Forgive me, but I don’t believe I know you. So, I thought I would take the liberty of introducing myself. I’m Arimis Nukilik, Grand Duke of Patverums.”

[Ajuba]

The Ajuban delegation arrived on the Island and began to make their way up the brick path towards the Palace. Imperial Governor Lord Nindar Owiju led the delegation dressed in a black tuxedo with a blue sash and a heavy medallion symbolizing his position as the Emperor’s viceroy in Ajuba. Beside Lord Nindar walked the Union Chancellor, Sir Dawuda Okpanache, the head of the Ajuban Union’s government. He was dressed similarly to Lord Nindar, including wearing the medallions of his office on a heavy chain around his neck. Unlike Lord Nindar, who appeared youthful even in his fifth decade, Sir Dawuda showed his age with a full head of grey hair and a pair of thick glasses.

President Akunna Okekek, the elected leader of the Edowan Commonwealth - one of the three constituent states of Ajuban Union - walked just behind Lord Nindar and Sir Dawuda. He wore a black suit and walked with an elaborately carved walking stick that was more a symbol of status than a necessity.

Just behind President Okekek walked two men in traditional attire. On the right, the shorter of the two wore a white agbada-style robe over a loose-fitting knee-length shirt and trouser with an aso oke - a fez-like hat - titled slightly to the left. King Abiodun III, the King of Jariah, was trading stories and laughing with the man to his left, Muhammadu VI Abubakar, the Sultan of Zatsina. The Sultan wore a full-length blue babban riga and white headdress that wrapped around the top of his head and under his chin.

As the delegation approached the Palace they were greeted by Lady Ashley Gordon Robb, the Imperial Chancellor. “Welcome, Your Majesties and Excellencies,” she said bowing slightly.

The Ajubans bowed in return. “Good evening, My Lady,” King Abiodun III said, “has the Emperor made his arrival yet? The Sultan and I are anxious to give him our greetings.”

“Not yet, Your Majesty. However, he is ready to receive you and the Sultan in a brief audience.” A steward appeared and bowed deeply. “The steward will take you to His Imperial Majesty.” King Abiodun III and Sultan Muhammadu VI Abubakar were technically the Emperor’s tribuatories, so arrangements had been made for them to give him their formal greetings upon arrival.

“Thank you, My Lady,” the King said as he and the Sultan nodded and followed the steward into the Grand Ballroom.

“My Lady,” President Okeke said with a smile, “a pleasure to finally meet you.”

“And it is a pleasure to meet you, Your Excellency.” She turned towards Lord Nindar and Sir Dawuda. “Your Excellencies, a pleasure to welcome you back to Excalbia.”

“It is an honour to be here to celebrate the Emperor’s birthday and his reign,” Lord Nindar said with a graceful bow.

“Indeed,” agreed Sir Dawuda. “And, My Lady, as His Imperial Majesty’s chancellors we should meet and discuss business at some point.”

“Of course, Sir Dawuda,” the Chancellor smiled. “But first,” she gestured towards the Grand Ballroom, “please enjoy the party.”