The Prince's Ball (IC)

[Polish Prussian Commonwealth]

-snape-

Sabin

---

Sabin nodded, understanding nothing of what was said. Erika was an...anomaly. She did occasionally speak in cryptic and odd phrases, something that earned her the correspondence of a certain Reverend Stavros. Danceria's oldest opponent of the pagan monarchy, longtime firebrand and "fundamentalist". Erika loved her father, dearly. That much was certain...but the Dancerian Prince had his doubts. She was a woman, who was cast aside in her youth, and raised in arguably one of the most Christian nations known to Danceria as a soldier. Aceus, while charming, was still a Valarist. He kept well the faith of his forebears, and in that regard wouldn't budge. It wouldn't surprise Sabin if Stavros aimed to use Erika against her father in some way, if only to put a Christian monarch on the throne. Was Erika really ready for all the politics her presence may entail?

Shaking his head and returning to reality. "Well, at least you two are having fun. I'll just...go and locate some hors d'oeuvres." the Prince admitted weakly.

Unknown to Sabin, though, Erika had no intention of betraying her father, even if instigated by Stavros. Of course, this didn't mean that occasionally Aceus and Erika had disagreements, but they were usually dealt with relatively cordially.
"Don't stuff yourself on 'em, sir. Have a good night, and tell Aceus that I said hello on behalf of my father." replied Berengar.
He touched his fingers to his right eyebrow, and the two left Sabin to his thoughts.

OOC: Apologies for the short post, but...well, not much I can say here.

[Port Ember]

Roderique
"You are welcome Madame, there's more flattering to come if you'd like." he gave a smile, after a moment it waned a bit "But forgive me for my seemingly harsh or blunt attitude, it is different back home, the 'social protocol' you say. Politeness is honesty, flattery is just a nice way to lie. Being direct and forward is just the way most people talk, business-wise and socially, which leads to foreigners thinking we are a rude people, and it can seem like that but I assure you we are not. And don't worry about insulting me, fame is not my priority, I just want to sell my product and make a decent bit of money. If I have to remain anonymous and sell it under the table abroad, I would. Plus my family has been in the weapons trade for centuries, they were blacksmiths and weapon dealers in the Middle Ages, selling swords, hammers, shields, halberds, you name it. Then guns came along and that's what we've been into ever since. Consider yourself invited, to more than just the company."

Jolene Gudfrey in Conversation with Roderique

Jolene smiled softly at Roderique. She enjoyed Roderique's company, short as it is so far. She enjoyed his confidence and perhaps a hint of arrogance. Atleast he knew what he wanted, and did not mince words to make it clear.

"Ah well I do love a company with a long history.. and I do love a good challenge. I bet if you manage to impress me with your tour.. I know I could help you. I already have a plan in my mind to skyrocket your profits into new heights.

I have done so in the past, turned a local unkown IT company into one of the world leaders in the industry. So yes, I do look forward to the tour. What do you have in mind for me good sir?"

[Teressien]

Heda led Keoke off the dancefloor, back to Jirou, Shiruko, and Kyouko, while explaining to him, that there was no Golden Rule as described. Keoke nodded - something along these lines sounded familiar with him.
"It's roughly about the same in Shikonjima" - he said, "so there's not really a Golden Rule there, either. The 'all good things in measure' sounds pretty much like the way it's with us. Don't spend the entire night with the same person, and you're fine."
As they went back to Keoke's family, they were already welcomed.
"Looks like the two of you had a lot of fun over there, eh?" - Jirou said, grinning. "No joke - you guys did an awesome job! Whoever your teachers in Dance School were, they should receive a medal of honor!"
Kyouko grinned for a moment, too. Jirou the jokester ...
Then she turned serious again, but stayed friendly. "I can only agree" - she said. "Duhojimi has blessed you, really!" Duhojimi was one of the Ryoukami, the Dragon-Gods, who served next to the Four Souls - to be precise, Duhojimi was the Dragon-Goddess of Music and Dance. "I could watch you the entire night, but I'm sure, that not only a few people would consider it a bit impolite."
"Hai" - Keoke agreed, "We had that issue ..."

Meanwhile, Vin had let Shiko off as well, easily spotting Aaltje, whom Shiko had already had a conversation in the New Lands with. Aaltje's dance partner had been a colleague of hers, namely Ruairi Forrest Buchan, from Folaisia. Shiko had lightly bowed her head to both of them, as Vin was already talking to Ruairi, in a straight manner. No doubt, he had found someone to talk shop with - perhaps not only shop, but the entire Nashinya Mall, for Aaltje seemed to have certain apprehensions as to how long this could take.
She introduced herself to the Shikonjimanese Princess again - not out of necessity, but of politeness - and directly asked her, if she wanted to switch the location and leave the boys alone with their shop-talk.
She nodded. "The pleasure is entirely mine, Miss Schreyg! And yes, I might be a bit thirsty now, from the dance, so we might organize ourselves something liquid, I think. I assume, that we can leave the boys alone for a minute, now can't we?"

Ruairi was about to answer Prince Vin's question when he overheard Aaltje about to split off with Princess Shiko.

"You sure you don't want to stick around," asked Ruairi.

From what was expected, Aaltje reassured herself along with the Shikonjimanese princess. With that, they were off, prompting Ruairi to face the prince.

"I have two films on the line that are awaiting completion at this time. Those are A Healthy Verdict, a drama film where a lawyer is asked to defend the families and friends of those that died from a poisoned pill that originated from a prominent pharmaceutical company at the expense of his firm becoming bankrupt, and The Crowface Killings: An Insight into the Event, which is a documentary that discusses about the 2013 spree shooting and its aftermath, as well as the motives for the killer himself. I, myself, have provided the voiceover."

Ruairi then let his eyes squint for a little.

Heda, Prinzessin von Dorch.
I blushed at the praises of the two women, but I had to agree... at least I imagined us two to look good dancing together.
"Yes, we discussed that.", I said with a small smile, "The general consensus here and in Shikonjima is apparently similar: All good things in good measure. Besides, I'm afraid, that I gave a few dances to other gentlemen already... not all, but a few." I let a beat pass, looked at Princess Kyouku, who, I had to remember, was a different type of Princess then I was. "If I may ask, Your Highness, how do such balls work in Shikonjima? I must confess, that I am not too familiar with the ballrooms of your nation."
Or if there were ballrooms in the first place, for that matter.

Aaltje Schreyg.
I nodded, smiling.
"Indeed, I hope so... Vin won't bring the house down without adult supervision!", I joked back and motioned for the Princess to follow me, "So, let's go to the Refreshments Table!"
I waited until she linked up, then smiled at her.
"You know, I really like your Gwand.", I said, looking her up and down, "It looks cute on you... and among us, I think, that Vin does think so, too." I smiled as we arrived, a myriad of drinks and snacks were available, from wines and fruit brandies to Selkie-Whiskey, a helpful Hausmädchen standing by to help with the selection or questions. Beer was served elsewhere. Also a lot of snacks and nibbles were there. Lemonades and water and tea were also available. I took a lemonade. "So... like it?"
I was, of course, referring to the Gwand. It was not something everyone liked wearing - I knew, that I did not, as a kid.

Vin, Prinz von Dorch.
I nodded.
"Yes, I heard about the documentary.", I said, unpertubed by the squinting, "Terrible thing, that... the subject, I mean. Made headlines even over here, which was why the Crowface-movies came to Teressien in the first place." I let a beat pass. "One of my professors, Professor Gerulf Bukker, recently wrote an article about the entire thing, The Other Side of Movie-Art: The Influence of Movies on Crime. Really an interesting read and not only taking the Crowface-Killings as an example."

Kiah Findehoof.
I watched the two of them dance and it was... beautiful.
A Polonaise was a very formal, stuffy dance, yet the two of them made it look like the most natural thing in the world. Their conversation eluded me, mainly because of the distance, but that was not the point.
I applauded when the Orchestra had finished and then flagged down a waitress with a few glasses of lemonade. It was a bitter drink, no sugar, but really only the lemon and water, which was far healthier then the sugar-water sold in the Free Lands...
Anyway, I waited with my three glasses and the Hausmädchen for the triumphant return, smiling widely. The cameras had caught their dance as well, making them the second same-gendered couple on the floor tonight. Regardless of that, they looked both cute and pretty together!

When the song came to a conclusion the partners finished off their dance. It may be likely someone snapped a few pictures which wouldn't be a problem for them. "What a lovely dance, Pacifica"

"You as well, Miela. See you're really not bad at all."

"I suppose I have my hidden talents." The two returned to the table "Can you believe, Pacifica is quite the dancer."

Kiah Findehoof.
"It was nice to watch.", I said with a firm nod, handing the glasses out, one for each. "A Polonaise is a relatively simple one, but quite easy to screw up, so... my veneration for your skills." I even bowed my head lightly to both. "Say, do you both have a spot free on your dance cards?" I smiled a bit sheepish. "I would love to dance with both of you!"
I even blushed at that, unsure if they would accept the proposal. It was quite daring, but only those who dare, win!
In this case, a dance.

Aceus

---

The two danced and exited elegantly out of the Grand Ballroom, the reporters nodding sagely to one another in knowing. Aceus was Fara’s significant other, and while their relationship had been mostly clandestine, it was clear that they were gradually becoming more and more comfortable with being a couple in public. No doubt they’ll reconnect, both in happenings and in lips, in the garden beyond.

If only Aceus wholly shared in the merriment.

By no means wasn’t he happy, the most beautiful woman he could ever imagine-a wild and gilded force of nature that he couldn’t help but marvel and count himself the luckiest man alive was by his side. But that same woman was suffering, for her little sister was injured in an attack...Aurelia too. Al’Arzz was barely noted in the upcoming Pentennial, and Aceus himself was whisked across Danceria shaking hands and overseeing ceremonies. By the time the Dancerian Overseas Intelligence Bureau had cautiously approached him, it was because Aceus naturally wanted to see if the Sultana or a certain Princess of Megido could stop by. The younger Princess of Megido, one Fadia bint-Dardan was injured in a terrorist attack roughly a week ago.

When they were sufficiently alone, Aceus’s diplomatic mind began to craft together a myriad of excuses and apologies, but Aceus himself let his heart be the guide. On a nearby bench, with very little words exchanged, Fara would be held close to the beating heart of Aceus. Not for the sake of having a beautiful woman in his arms, but to show that woman that even though he might not have been there when she needed him, he was there now. The embrace would last, whether Fara wished to drop the stoic facade and let her tears flow over her family’s injury, relief that Fadia was on the mend, or even yell at the Dancerian King for not even seeming to send a text or letter when they were in correspondence with one another, Aceus prepared himself for it.

Rev. Stavros

---

Stavros’s face was that of worn marble, almost perpetually stoic save for the keenest of eyes, who say that even though the Reverend was blind, he was calculating. Plotting. Scheming.

To Adil, and once the waltz and the polite applause concluded, the man would bow. “Your Beatitude,” the blind elder would address the Patriarch firstly, “Stavros Galanis, Heiromonk of the Monastery of St. Panteleimon of Rhûn.” It was strange to relate himself to the seminary of his long distant youth, where he was first fully initiated as a follower of Christ, but procedures were procedures. While celibacy was a unique phenomenon in the Kyrenaian Church, voluntary poverty and Fools-For-Christ may not be as common. “A pleasure to finally meet you.

Morgane Macánta he vaguely recalled, the priestess of gods dead and neglected, and equally sparse was intel on her. He only knew the name from the ledger and from hearing about the Fermanagh Case, of whom King Aceus was looking into to circumvent Princess Fara’s injury. He would, of course, have to ask on how the young Rona was doing, when appropriate of course. Part of being a “Fool” was exploiting the overconfidence of the impious.

“And to You as well, Miss...?”

Prince Philippe
Linking arms with Safura, Philippe began walking her back towards the group and remarked, “That was quite the dance, my lady. I hope I was a sufficient dance partner.”

The Prince found the lady someone fun to dance with, but did not wish to just stay with one lady the entire evening. Though he hoped he never offended anyone, Philippe preferred to always glide from one conversation to the next. He loved meeting new people and, as a result, rarely committed too much time to anyone unless he was truly fascinated.

Reaching the group, the Prince let go of Safura and bowed. “Thank you for that dance.” He turned towards the group and joked, “I hope you did not mind our absence?”

Princess Maria
“Oh, what a delight,” the Princess exclaimed. “I love patios and, as I commented to my brother earlier, we are truly blessed with nice weather. Walking out onto the patio with Rena, Maria sat on the basket chairs. “What an interesting chair,” the Princess commented. “Anyways, I forget, but did I ask you why you are not dancing this evening? Or, if perhaps are you waiting for a certain man,” Maria playfully teased.

The palace's photographers indeed nodded sagely, for they knew one thing: Whoever would go to the gardens tonight was not to be disturbed in the gardens, the Fürstliche Garde took care of that. The Gardens were a refuge, away from the hustle and bustle of the ballroom, not to be disturbed by anyone.
Photographing them exiting, though, was fair game!

Princess Fara bint-Dardan.
As soon as we left the rabid hyenas behind and found a little spot to sit, on a bench under a Teressien Lilac in full bloom. I knew, that he was crafting excuses and I knew, that he had good reasons, otherwise he would not dare to show his face to me, but when he hugged me close to his chest, I closed my eyes.
All anger was forgotten as I took a couple of deep breaths.
There were no tears left to shed. I still buried my face in his chest, glad for him to be here. Moments turned into minutes.
I knew, what was on his mind.
"Tell me, Aceus...", I whispered, "...why?"
I wanted to hear it from him.

Morgane Macánta of the Tribe of Cork.
When the old man greeted Adil, I saw in his eyes, that he recognized the name Stavros Galanis - and so did I. Quite an interesting choice as a diplomatic envoy to take along, Aceus-Rí...
"The pleasure is mine.", Adil said and I knew, that he meant it in more ways then one and was holding back from asking Stavros for an autograph. Boys...
He then turned to me and told me it was a pleasure to him as well to meet me, to which I replied with: "Morgane Macánta of the Tribe of Cork, High Priestess of the Cult of Cailb.", I said and bowed my head in respect of his age. "She's the Goddess of Death, Destruction, Rebirth and Pudding of the Selkie-Pantheon."
I usually explained that, because while foreigners usually knew Rhiannon the Fertility-Goddess, Carman Fea as Goddess of War and the Bros Lodan Lir and Ladra, Cailb had a lot of misconceptions attached to her.
Just then, Prince Philippe returned with Safura, thanking her for the dance and asking, if we minded her absence.
Aregnaudeau nodded at the young man: "Of course not!", he said, "Although I must confess to being a bit jealous..." Safura joined his side with a giggle as the three separated with a small bow. "Now, then, Prince Philippe..."

Safura Mésange.
Nello Aregnaudeau was a clever foreign politician, well aware of what assets he had and how he could use them - and to that end, despite all of his fanboying over me and Marie, we were, at the end of the day, only that for him: Assets.
He had an ideal pokerface.
"Now, then, Prince Philippe...", he began, "...to my understanding, you and Rivienland are Catholic?" He let a beat pass. "I must say, that our relationship with the Catholic Church is a bit... strained, to say the least, but that should not keep our two nations from becoming friends." He let a beat pass. "I hope so, at least, as fellow Brothers in Christ."

Rena, Prinzessin von Wißenthen.
I settled down in a basket chair myself, took a small breath.
Then she asked, why I wasn't dancing. I blushed in a red-hot comparable to a fire hydrant.
"I am, indeed, waiting on a very certain someone asking me for a dance...", I almost whispered, but it was still loud enough for Marie to understand me, "He's actually a Prince of another Duchy..." I let a beat pass. "I would really enjoy that, but I can't approach him... too nervous..."
I sighed.
"It's weird.", I said, "I can approach an insane horse and calm it down into a handtame little foal with easy, but I can not approach a boy..."

Häkkinen-Couple
"Oh, we have to start the dance," Lady Mháire said. She also spoke German, but her accent was not Finnish, but had a Celtic impact."You know how much I love this part of the Soirees".
"Well, then you must excuse me, Minister," said the prince. "I am unable to refuse my wife a wish, but we still have to speak, I am a person who loves to learn".

Adalrich von Ehrenback.
I nodded. "Of course. I know that predicament.", he said with a smile, bowed his head, "Until then."
After the Prince had departed and was enjoying the dance, I flagged down a Hausmädchen to stay with us, along with her tablet of drinks: Two white wines, two red wines, two waters. Of course, the wines were Teressien in origin. The red wine was a Hektlinger Rotwein, from a grape variety for colder climates. I knew the deep blue grapes well, my Uncle was a vintner growing these. The red wine was deep, ruby red, full-bodied in taste and a wide bouquet of different, fruity tastes, reminding people of blackberries. The white wine was more golden, its taste lifely and spicy, with a tinge of sourness reminding people of more exotic fruits, the grapes known as the Iselsteder Goldtraube.
The water was fresh water.
Anyway, I took one of the waters, my wife a white wine, as we waited for the Prince and his wife to return, and when they did, we bowed our heads. "My compliments.", I said, "You are a very good dancer. Reminds me of my own youth, when I was still around on the floor!"

Alessandre, Luis, Constantino
"I supposed you have a point there my friend. 'Dignity of the man and humility of the office' as the bishops used to say. So you think you can convince Roderique to your side?" Luis questioned.

"Well-" before Alessandre answered, a maiden came and brought them water in a pitcher and some glasses, she asked if they needed anything else, or at least that's what he thought she was saying. Alessandre answered in English "No..thank you. Oh, um, food? Cibo?" he said making a motion with his hand toward his mouth, his hand as if it were holding a small food.

"Father you look ridiculous." luckily Constantino came early enough before his father made a clown of himself, then addressed the maiden "Nice to see you again. My father wants to know if there is any food. I guess something small like an hors d'oeuvre. Unless there is a set time for that, then we'll just wait."

Lone Maachen.
I was a bit surprised by the gesture of Alessandre, who indeed looked funny. I got, what he wanted, but when Constantino clarified that to me, I nodded.
"Of course, Your Highness.", I said and bowed my head, "Something to nibble on will be delivered momentarily."
And off I went, to the next Refreshments Table, and took a liberal amount of nibbles. first of all, of course, the Onion-Nibbles, small, muffin-like nibbles of flaky pastry, which were filled with a mixture of bacon, onion, cream, egg and caraway and scalloped with cheese. They were quite spicy and delicious. Three Powidtascherl came along as well, a confectionary made from damson jam and potato dough, sugar on top, including a fork each. A few breadsticks scalloped with cheese came along, too (who said, that everything had to be fancy?). And a small plate of fried chicken balls, made from chicken breast came along as well.
With a smile, I returned and served, hopefully everything being to their liking.
I bowed my head and waited if they had another request...

After the small mishap with Herzogin Alvina, her son and daughter in law, couole with the blow in friendship with Princess Aurelia, Agathe had ended the call, and had dansed the Polonaise with Bradley, both of them managing a decent dance, but who could have been better. At least they had not stepped on the other's toes.
And so, as the dance had ended, the couple had moved to the side.
"Well, I wonder if Anax and Anna have bad luck that clings to them, because everytime they try to be polite, they end up being rejected, says Myers with an angry sigh.
- Once again, it's about protocol and all the trivialities to it, simply replies the Dowager Empress. Then again, I shouldn't have answered the call.
- Come one Agathe, it's your son! says Bradley.
-I know! Look, what's done is done, and as you've seen, he'll have some work to do with the princess since he blew it up. So for now, let's find someone else to talk to. That young couple, over there? she asks as she looks sideways to two persons standing next to a Hausmädchen.
- Baronin Wilrun von Port Monee and Mister Khalid Faris, says Bradley without hesitation, as if he was reciting a lesson by heart.
-Good job remembering all those names, I guess it comes with all those years being a security guard for those type of events. Let's see now how you approach them, adds the Dowager Empress.
-Aye Ma'am, answers the Colonel, before moving towards the Hausmädchen, and nonchalantly picking up the last glass of white wine remaining.
"Excuse me, Baronin Wilrun von Port Monee and Mister Faris? asks Myers with a polite tone. I just wanted to tell you that I greatly enjoyed your dancing moves during the Polonaise. Watching you certainly helped me not stepped on my partner's toes. I'm Colonel Bradley Myers, he adds as he extends his hand towards Wilrun. My companion for tonight, Dowager Empress Agathe Blachkov, he adds with a small jerk of the head towards Agathe,who is standing a bit behind him, having picked the glass of water on the tray.

Khalid Faris.
Let's face it: Me and Wilrun going to this ball was less of a free choice and more of a business-move. Mother wanted a piece of the market, that was Teressien and the young baroness Wilrun was a good point of entry. That did not mean, that we did not make the best out of this, the dancing of the Polonaise had been fun and we had promised each other to take the Kyrenaian Polka with each other.
Now, when Myers approached us, it saved us a little bit from the awkward silence, that had come over us for we had literally nothing to speak about with each other.
His compliments were appreciated.
"The pleasure is all ours.", Wilrun spoke, bowed her head lightly to either of them, I did the same, "Indeed, I am Wilrun, the Baronin of Port Monee, my date for tonight, Khalid Faris."
"Charmed.", I said with a smile.
"Thank you for your polite words, Colonel. As you can imagine, dancing is a very important skill in Teressien, but having a partner of equal skills is essential." She let a beat pass. "How are you doing tonight?"

[Shikonjima]

Heda, Prinzessin von Dorch.
I blushed at the praises of the two women, but I had to agree... at least I imagined us two to look good dancing together.
"Yes, we discussed that.", I said with a small smile, "The general consensus here and in Shikonjima is apparently similar: All good things in good measure. Besides, I'm afraid, that I gave a few dances to other gentlemen already... not all, but a few." I let a beat pass, looked at Princess Kyouku, who, I had to remember, was a different type of Princess then I was. "If I may ask, Your Highness, how do such balls work in Shikonjima? I must confess, that I am not too familiar with the ballrooms of your nation."
Or if there were ballrooms in the first place, for that matter.

Aaltje Schreyg.
I nodded, smiling.
"Indeed, I hope so... Vin won't bring the house down without adult supervision!", I joked back and motioned for the Princess to follow me, "So, let's go to the Refreshments Table!"
I waited until she linked up, then smiled at her.
"You know, I really like your Gwand.", I said, looking her up and down, "It looks cute on you... and among us, I think, that Vin does think so, too." I smiled as we arrived, a myriad of drinks and snacks were available, from wines and fruit brandies to Selkie-Whiskey, a helpful Hausmädchen standing by to help with the selection or questions. Beer was served elsewhere. Also a lot of snacks and nibbles were there. Lemonades and water and tea were also available. I took a lemonade. "So... like it?"
I was, of course, referring to the Gwand. It was not something everyone liked wearing - I knew, that I did not, as a kid.

The Shikonjimanese Princess - in a sense of Koushaku, not in a sense of Hime, as one needed to remember, especially when one spoke English - nodded at Heda's question, for of course, she could hardly be expected to remember all details of Shikonjimanese culture.
"Now, ballrooms are a thing, quite as widespread as they seem to be in here" - Kyouko began, "and from what I got, most customs of dancing in here don't seem to be much different from ours. Of course, our ballrooms do look a bit different, with the decorations using elements of Shikonjimanese art, and the language of flowers, an important part of it, is different as well. The styles of music and dance are usually focussed on our traditional ways, but there are, of course, also pieces of classical music known world-wide to hear, too."
She let a beat pass.
"However, balls like these are rather limited to special occasions like this one" - she continued, "while in most parts, ballroom dances in Shikonjima are rather ..." - she sought for an appropriate term, "... competitive, one may say. It's a bit like a sports event, with a jury selecting the pairing doing best at the end of the night; they might be awarded with some symbolic trophy, or a few Ryous, or maybe only the right to brag." She had to grin. "Considering this, you might not be surprised, that we're especially keen on performing well on the dancefloor. Not that we considered this a competition in general, but it's the spirit most of us grow up with."

On the way to the Refreshments Table, leaving the boys alone (even though Ruairi would not have minded them staying), Shiko received a compliment on her Gwand, including the assumption, that not only Aaltje, but also Vin might have found her looking cute in it. Shiko had bowed her head, thanking her, then taking a glass of water. She would certainly try some wine soon as well, but if there was one universal Golden Rule, then drinking wine and water in turns was a fairly good way to avoid getting drunk too soon in the night, and getting a headache the next morning.
Aaltje asked her if she liked it.
"I'm willing to admit, that it took me quite a moment to get used to it - or even a few moments more" - Shiko replied, "especially considering, that I normally wear either Kimono, or a light silk evening dress with ornaments - which one, that's depending on the particular occasion, but neither of both is hard to get into - or out of, for that matter."
Shiko's light silk dress was well-known (partly thanks to social media), and so was its origin, at least within Shikonjima, probably less so abroad - this, along with Shiko's and Kyouko's distinct facial features, was the friendly reminder, that the current Royal Line also had Sharulsi roots; a fact, which people from both countries never got tired of emphasizing.
"Now, however, it starts to feel really comfortable!" - Shiko continued. "Once you get used to it, it sits perfectly well. Although it might be a lot easier to get used to it, if one has actually grown up with it, I assume?"

[Teressien]

The Shikonjimanese Princess - in a sense of Koushaku, not in a sense of Hime, as one needed to remember, especially when one spoke English - nodded at Heda's question, for of course, she could hardly be expected to remember all details of Shikonjimanese culture.
"Now, ballrooms are a thing, quite as widespread as they seem to be in here" - Kyouko began, "and from what I got, most customs of dancing in here don't seem to be much different from ours. Of course, our ballrooms do look a bit different, with the decorations using elements of Shikonjimanese art, and the language of flowers, an important part of it, is different as well. The styles of music and dance are usually focussed on our traditional ways, but there are, of course, also pieces of classical music known world-wide to hear, too."
She let a beat pass.
"However, balls like these are rather limited to special occasions like this one" - she continued, "while in most parts, ballroom dances in Shikonjima are rather ..." - she sought for an appropriate term, "... competitive, one may say. It's a bit like a sports event, with a jury selecting the pairing doing best at the end of the night; they might be awarded with some symbolic trophy, or a few Ryous, or maybe only the right to brag." She had to grin. "Considering this, you might not be surprised, that we're especially keen on performing well on the dancefloor. Not that we considered this a competition in general, but it's the spirit most of us grow up with."

On the way to the Refreshments Table, leaving the boys alone (even though Ruairi would not have minded them staying), Shiko received a compliment on her Gwand, including the assumption, that not only Aaltje, but also Vin might have found her looking cute in it. Shiko had bowed her head, thanking her, then taking a glass of water. She would certainly try some wine soon as well, but if there was one universal Golden Rule, then drinking wine and water in turns was a fairly good way to avoid getting drunk too soon in the night, and getting a headache the next morning.
Aaltje asked her if she liked it.
"I'm willing to admit, that it took me quite a moment to get used to it - or even a few moments more" - Shiko replied, "especially considering, that I normally wear either Kimono, or a light silk evening dress with ornaments - which one, that's depending on the particular occasion, but neither of both is hard to get into - or out of, for that matter."
Shiko's light silk dress was well-known (partly thanks to social media), and so was its origin, at least within Shikonjima, probably less so abroad - this, along with Shiko's and Kyouko's distinct facial features, was the friendly reminder, that the current Royal Line also had Sharulsi roots; a fact, which people from both countries never got tired of emphasizing.
"Now, however, it starts to feel really comfortable!" - Shiko continued. "Once you get used to it, it sits perfectly well. Although it might be a lot easier to get used to it, if one has actually grown up with it, I assume?"

Heda, Prinzessin von Dorch.
I listened with great interest and nodded. I smiled at the thing about the competitiveness and bragging rights.
"It's... not that dissimilar, yet very different from here.", I said with a nod, "There is certainly a competitive element here, especially under the girls..." I smiled and shrugged in a bit of self-irony. "...but it's less linked to an actual competition." I smiled and let a beat pass. "Nevertheless, I would love to go to a ball in Shikonjima, once."
Maybe even wearing a kimono., I added in thought.

Aaltje Schreyg.
I nodded at the explanations, smiled by the end and giggled.
"Believe it or not, as a little kid, I hated wearing Tracht.", I said with a smile, "Tracht is associated with good behaviour and certain ways of moving and I hated that... around ten, I started to like it, mainly because Mama began to put my hair into these cute pigtails, which everyone said looked cute." I smiled - I am a girl, after all. "And I learned to move in that thing, so double the cute."
I let a beat pass.
"I heard, that Shikonmanjese Traditional Dresses are quite difficult to move in, mainly due to the footwear.", I said.

Unknown to Sabin, though, Erika had no intention of betraying her father, even if instigated by Stavros. Of course, this didn't mean that occasionally Aceus and Erika had disagreements, but they were usually dealt with relatively cordially.
"Don't stuff yourself on 'em, sir. Have a good night, and tell Aceus that I said hello on behalf of my father." replied Berengar.
He touched his fingers to his right eyebrow, and the two left Sabin to his thoughts.

OOC: Apologies for the short post, but...well, not much I can say here.

Ida Findehoof.
I had my eyes on that man ever since he passed Enya and the Fürst.
Crown-Prince Berengar, of course appearing in a dashing uniform, was quite a looker, even without the uniform. But he was a soldier by heart and I knew, that those much rather dropped dead rather then appearing to a formal function out of uniform (thank you for that lesson, Grandmother).
I was blonde, my hair bound back in a braid, which left a few strands to frame my face, my grey-blue eyes sparkling as I approached. I, of course, wore Tracht, the bodice in dark blue, with white trimmings and closed by buttons, the half-apron of a lighter blue-shade, while the blouse was, of course, white, the sleeves going to the middle of my upper arms. I am a rather... well-equipped, shall we say.
And I knew that.
I had a relatively subtle swing to my hips as I approached Crown-Prince Berengar and the little girl, which he dragged to this occasion, shortly after they had said their goodbyes to the Ducal Prince Sabin.
"Meine Verehrung, Euer Hoheit!", I greeted him in Teressian German, bowing my head a bit. By now, I had a Selkie-inflection in Teressian accent, which made it all the more melodious. I continued in that language with a smile. "I am Ida Findehoof. It's a great pleasure to make Your acquaintance."
He might take notice of the name Findehoof, but that was another question...

[The Scarlet Eagle]

Khalid Faris.
Let's face it: Me and Wilrun going to this ball was less of a free choice and more of a business-move. Mother wanted a piece of the market, that was Teressien and the young baroness Wilrun was a good point of entry. That did not mean, that we did not make the best out of this, the dancing of the Polonaise had been fun and we had promised each other to take the Kyrenaian Polka with each other.
Now, when Myers approached us, it saved us a little bit from the awkward silence, that had come over us for we had literally nothing to speak about with each other.
His compliments were appreciated.
"The pleasure is all ours.", Wilrun spoke, bowed her head lightly to either of them, I did the same, "Indeed, I am Wilrun, the Baronin of Port Monee, my date for tonight, Khalid Faris."
"Charmed.", I said with a smile.
"Thank you for your polite words, Colonel. As you can imagine, dancing is a very important skill in Teressien, but having a partner of equal skills is essential." She let a beat pass. "How are you doing tonight?"

As Wilrun and Khalid answer nicely to them, Bradley and Agathe also bow their heads lightly in thanks.
"The pleasure is reciprocal, replies the Dowager Empress. We are doing well tonight, although a small call I answered from my son caused some friction with other guests. But otherwise, everything is good for us." At the moment, Agathe thought it was best if she didn't go into detail about what happened, it wouldn't help to change it in any way.
-Well, I wasn't aware that dancing was that important in the Principality, continues Myers as he answers to Wilrun. So thank you for this small piece of knowledge about your nation, he adds with another small bow of the head. I don't fancy myself as a great dancer, but one thing for sure is that I'm a fast learner. So may I have the honor of asking you to test my skills for a later dance?" He asks with a smile.
-Say, Mister Faris, asks Agathe as she turns to Khalid, I've heard that you are a photographer in your free time. What are your favourite subjects?"

[Shikonjima]

Heda, Prinzessin von Dorch.
I listened with great interest and nodded. I smiled at the thing about the competitiveness and bragging rights.
"It's... not that dissimilar, yet very different from here.", I said with a nod, "There is certainly a competitive element here, especially under the girls..." I smiled and shrugged in a bit of self-irony. "...but it's less linked to an actual competition." I smiled and let a beat pass. "Nevertheless, I would love to go to a ball in Shikonjima, once."
Maybe even wearing a kimono., I added in thought.

Aaltje Schreyg.
I nodded at the explanations, smiled by the end and giggled.
"Believe it or not, as a little kid, I hated wearing Tracht.", I said with a smile, "Tracht is associated with good behaviour and certain ways of moving and I hated that... around ten, I started to like it, mainly because Mama began to put my hair into these cute pigtails, which everyone said looked cute." I smiled - I am a girl, after all. "And I learned to move in that thing, so double the cute."
I let a beat pass.
"I heard, that Shikonmanjese Traditional Dresses are quite difficult to move in, mainly due to the footwear.", I said.

Kyouko had to smile about Heda's remark, as she mentioned the competitiveness as a female particularity - this was something she knew too well. Although it did turn out, that this was way less of a thing in here than it was back home, there would be still some of it left. After all, who did not want to be the best dancer of a ball? The Shikonjimanese variant could, therefore, be just considered the logical consequence of this general desire - particularly amongst girls.
She nodded.
"Aside from said competitiveness and the other, rather minor differences, you wouldn't have a lot of trouble getting into our way" - she said, "for it's not rocket science - if you keep it the way you're used to, there isn't a lot that can go wrong."
"Usually" - Jirou added.
"Usually" - Kyouko confirmed, nodding.

Aaltje told about the resistance against wearing Tracht, especially due to its association with good behavior - which made Shiko giggle at that point. She also had to grin, when Aaltje continued telling about the cuteness level that had eventually made her like it.
Then, she mentioned the trouble in moving along in Shinkonjimanese Traditional Dresses - in particular the footwear. Of course, Shiko was aware, that the Geta, the shows with the sole rising up from the middle to the tip, giving it a sort of triangular shape, was the footwear she was most likely referring to, and nodded.
"Well, it isn't awfully hard for me nowadays" - she said, "now that I'm used to it. But yeah, you won't be surprised to hear, that this was the part of it I hated the most when I was a child." She grinned. "I can remember, that I kissed the Palace's floor quite a few times back then, but one can actually get into it quite quickly."
She let a beat pass.
"I'd strongly recommend you to practice walking with them before, though."

[Folaisia]

Vin, Prinz von Dorch.
I nodded.
"Yes, I heard about the documentary.", I said, unpertubed by the squinting, "Terrible thing, that... the subject, I mean. Made headlines even over here, which was why the Crowface-movies came to Teressien in the first place." I let a beat pass. "One of my professors, Professor Gerulf Bukker, recently wrote an article about the entire thing, The Other Side of Movie-Art: The Influence of Movies on Crime. Really an interesting read and not only taking the Crowface-Killings as an example."

"An awfy terrible and sad subject indeed," nodded Ruairi, still keeping a collected visage, "And it's too bad that those movies had to be stigmatized in the times after that heinous crime. I reckon several families of the victims scowled at me for condoning violence and crime by acting in those films, with one criticism being that I am a cause of bad influence upon the perpetrator. But on the bright side of that, I'm able to give my time and energy to become a philanthropist in promoting mental healthiness, and produce the documentary so to express and showcase my sympathy for the victims and defense of innocence for myself, my colleagues and the films. Aside from that, I'll take a look at that book you've mentioned, now that you've mentioned it."

Ruairi then gave out a sigh of comfort.

"Now, moving on towards a happier subject," he then formed a smile on his face, "How did you and your sister like Crowface?"

[Rivienland]

Morgane Macánta of the Tribe of Cork.
When the old man greeted Adil, I saw in his eyes, that he recognized the name Stavros Galanis - and so did I. Quite an interesting choice as a diplomatic envoy to take along, Aceus-Rí...
"The pleasure is mine.", Adil said and I knew, that he meant it in more ways then one and was holding back from asking Stavros for an autograph. Boys...
He then turned to me and told me it was a pleasure to him as well to meet me, to which I replied with: "Morgane Macánta of the Tribe of Cork, High Priestess of the Cult of Cailb.", I said and bowed my head in respect of his age. "She's the Goddess of Death, Destruction, Rebirth and Pudding of the Selkie-Pantheon."
I usually explained that, because while foreigners usually knew Rhiannon the Fertility-Goddess, Carman Fea as Goddess of War and the Bros Lodan Lir and Ladra, Cailb had a lot of misconceptions attached to her.
Just then, Prince Philippe returned with Safura, thanking her for the dance and asking, if we minded her absence.
Aregnaudeau nodded at the young man: "Of course not!", he said, "Although I must confess to being a bit jealous..." Safura joined his side with a giggle as the three separated with a small bow. "Now, then, Prince Philippe..."

Safura Mésange.
Nello Aregnaudeau was a clever foreign politician, well aware of what assets he had and how he could use them - and to that end, despite all of his fanboying over me and Marie, we were, at the end of the day, only that for him: Assets.
He had an ideal pokerface.
"Now, then, Prince Philippe...", he began, "...to my understanding, you and Rivienland are Catholic?" He let a beat pass. "I must say, that our relationship with the Catholic Church is a bit... strained, to say the least, but that should not keep our two nations from becoming friends." He let a beat pass. "I hope so, at least, as fellow Brothers in Christ."

Rena, Prinzessin von Wißenthen.
I settled down in a basket chair myself, took a small breath.
Then she asked, why I wasn't dancing. I blushed in a red-hot comparable to a fire hydrant.
"I am, indeed, waiting on a very certain someone asking me for a dance...", I almost whispered, but it was still loud enough for Marie to understand me, "He's actually a Prince of another Duchy..." I let a beat pass. "I would really enjoy that, but I can't approach him... too nervous..."
I sighed.
"It's weird.", I said, "I can approach an insane horse and calm it down into a handtame little foal with easy, but I can not approach a boy..."

Prince Philippe
While Philippe knew little about Nouvelle-Dunkerque, Aregnaudeau was certainly someone he did not want to get too friendly with as the man kept a cold demeanor. Wishing to be anywhere but in this conversation, the Prince reminded himself of how Rivienland was always on the search for new allies.

“Of course, Your Excellency,” Philippe chuckled. “Though, I must ask, but how do you believe our two great nations can form such a relationship? What would we seek to achieve,” he asked. As he continued to talk to the Minister of Foreign Affairs it would be noticed that the Prince’s eyes surveyed the ballroom searching for someone else to bother, or to rescue him.

Princess Maria
The Princess could not help but to giggle at Rena’s predicament. In just their few moments of conversation, Maria thought, she seemed like such a confident woman. Still, Maria could relate as she also was not one to approach men for a dance, or anything really.

“My dear,” the Princess said as she put her hand on hers, “you have no need to be nervous. I can already tell from our encounter you a good woman and any man under heaven would be lucky to accept a dance from you. In this situation my mother would say while men might act like an insane horse sometimes, it is we that must approach tamed and in control to garner the men’s interest,” the Princess said as she adjusted herself in her chair. “And, while you might hesitate to make your move tonight other women might not. So, on such a beautiful night, why not? I can escort you to the Prince if that would help?”

[Teressien]

As Wilrun and Khalid answer nicely to them, Bradley and Agathe also bow their heads lightly in thanks.
"The pleasure is reciprocal, replies the Dowager Empress. We are doing well tonight, although a small call I answered from my son caused some friction with other guests. But otherwise, everything is good for us." At the moment, Agathe thought it was best if she didn't go into detail about what happened, it wouldn't help to change it in any way.
-Well, I wasn't aware that dancing was that important in the Principality, continues Myers as he answers to Wilrun. So thank you for this small piece of knowledge about your nation, he adds with another small bow of the head. I don't fancy myself as a great dancer, but one thing for sure is that I'm a fast learner. So may I have the honor of asking you to test my skills for a later dance?" He asks with a smile.
-Say, Mister Faris, asks Agathe as she turns to Khalid, I've heard that you are a photographer in your free time. What are your favourite subjects?"

Khalid Faris.
Wilrun nodded at Myers' gratitude. It was something, that visitors usually got quickly, that music and dancing were very important around these parts, as were manners and etiquette. Some called it stifling, but it was very nice, for formality gave interactions structure.
And that came from a man, who's hobby had been to dodge formalities as a teenager!
Anyway, when the Dowager-Empress asked me about my favourite subjects in my photography, I smiled. "I focus on the beauty of people and their surroundings, their expressions and interactions.", I replied, "I also practice nude photography, though in the artistic sense. There'll be a coffee table book coming out, soon, with a lot of my photographs." I let a beat pass. "Bicíní Industries was so nice and allowed me to shoot with some of their people."

Wilrun, Baronin von Port Monee.
I smiled.
"I am honoured that you would consider me an appropriate dancing partner for you, Colonel, but I'm afraid, that I must decline.", I said and took out my dance card. It was indeed a card, listing all the dances and the pieces played for it, next to it a name. Next to all of them. The Polonaise with Khalid, the Kyrenaian Polka with Prince Damir, the Polka after that with Gerulf von Sykane, the Waltz with Vin Erenback, the Quadrille-Française with Son Excellence Lieven Barillon, the following Polka with Khalid again, the Selkie-Polka with Áed Gadhair, the Waltz after that with Fürst Alrich, the Quadrille-Lanciers with Yvain Saighead and the final waltz with Khalid again. "My dance card's already full." I put it back into my pocket. "My apologies."

Kyouko had to smile about Heda's remark, as she mentioned the competitiveness as a female particularity - this was something she knew too well. Although it did turn out, that this was way less of a thing in here than it was back home, there would be still some of it left. After all, who did not want to be the best dancer of a ball? The Shikonjimanese variant could, therefore, be just considered the logical consequence of this general desire - particularly amongst girls.
She nodded.
"Aside from said competitiveness and the other, rather minor differences, you wouldn't have a lot of trouble getting into our way" - she said, "for it's not rocket science - if you keep it the way you're used to, there isn't a lot that can go wrong."
"Usually" - Jirou added.
"Usually" - Kyouko confirmed, nodding.

Aaltje told about the resistance against wearing Tracht, especially due to its association with good behavior - which made Shiko giggle at that point. She also had to grin, when Aaltje continued telling about the cuteness level that had eventually made her like it.
Then, she mentioned the trouble in moving along in Shinkonjimanese Traditional Dresses - in particular the footwear. Of course, Shiko was aware, that the Geta, the shows with the sole rising up from the middle to the tip, giving it a sort of triangular shape, was the footwear she was most likely referring to, and nodded.
"Well, it isn't awfully hard for me nowadays" - she said, "now that I'm used to it. But yeah, you won't be surprised to hear, that this was the part of it I hated the most when I was a child." She grinned. "I can remember, that I kissed the Palace's floor quite a few times back then, but one can actually get into it quite quickly."
She let a beat pass.
"I'd strongly recommend you to practice walking with them before, though."

Heda, Prinzessin von Dorch.
"That's very good to know.", I said and bowed my head lightly, "Though I would drag Vin along and he can get very competitive! It's actually quite cute, when we play video games together and Mama comes in asks, how we're doing." I grinned. "He always says, that he's wiping the floor with me - yet it's the other way around!"
I could hear Vin's sneeze.

Vin, Prinz von Dorch.
I sneezed. Heda...!
"My apologies, Mister Buchan.", I said and smiled sheepishly, "I liked the movie very much, but Heda was not that delighted. She's more available for romantic movies as well as avantgarde-movies and art-films, to be honest, so it's hardly surprising." I let a beat pass. "I study movie directing and actually already pitched a few ideas."

Aaltje Schreyg.
"I can imagine - kind of like walking with heels.", I said with a smile, "I remember my first tries with those and, believe me, I was glad, that Mama had this really, really thick carpet, which I kissed quite a few times..." I shrugged. "Ruined it, too, or rather my cats did. Sammt and Seyd - cute, both of them, but a handful!"

Prince Philippe
While Philippe knew little about Nouvelle-Dunkerque, Aregnaudeau was certainly someone he did not want to get too friendly with as the man kept a cold demeanor. Wishing to be anywhere but in this conversation, the Prince reminded himself of how Rivienland was always on the search for new allies.

“Of course, Your Excellency,” Philippe chuckled. “Though, I must ask, but how do you believe our two great nations can form such a relationship? What would we seek to achieve,” he asked. As he continued to talk to the Minister of Foreign Affairs it would be noticed that the Prince’s eyes surveyed the ballroom searching for someone else to bother, or to rescue him.

Princess Maria
The Princess could not help but to giggle at Rena’s predicament. In just their few moments of conversation, Maria thought, she seemed like such a confident woman. Still, Maria could relate as she also was not one to approach men for a dance, or anything really.

“My dear,” the Princess said as she put her hand on hers, “you have no need to be nervous. I can already tell from our encounter you a good woman and any man under heaven would be lucky to accept a dance from you. In this situation my mother would say while men might act like an insane horse sometimes, it is we that must approach tamed and in control to garner the men’s interest,” the Princess said as she adjusted herself in her chair. “And, while you might hesitate to make your move tonight other women might not. So, on such a beautiful night, why not? I can escort you to the Prince if that would help?”

Safura Mésange.
I saw, that the Prince seemed uncomfortable in this conversation and I knew, that Nello saw that, too... which was, why it was ideal for us to have drifted towards one of the seating groups in the ballroom, where an old friend of his sat, while others were around us.
For example, by the nearby Refreshments Table, Herzogin Alvina was nursing a lemonade.
Anyway, Nello nodded.
"I see, that you are a quite learned young man - you ask the right question.", he said and let a beat pass, "Our aim would be to bring Rivienland to the world stage, that people know, that it is a thing, that exist and respect it. To that end, Nouvelle-Dunkerque would be quite suitable, as it is a well-liked place of transshipment, so news would be getting out quite quickly and Rivienland would be able to trade with others without much of a hassle." He smiled, then bowed his head lightly. It went without saying, that such an arrangement would also useful for Nouvelle-Dunkerque. "Please bring the message to your Father, that Nouvelle-Dunkerque would be willing to become Rivienland's partner, maybe even ally. Now..." He looked a bit apologetic. "...I must excuse myself. I spotted an old friend nearby, who I have yet to greet. Have a nice evening, Prince. Maybe we'll meet again, later."
And with that, he was off.
I stayed with Prince Philippe for a moment. "If you are looking for someone to dance the Quadrille-Française with, I would be available.", I said and gave him a slight wink. "Until then!"
And with that, I followed Nello, leaving Philippe to his own devices.

Rena, Prinzessin von Wißenthen.
I blushed even redder when Maria giggled, but her hand reassured me quite a bit.
She did have a point with quoting her mother, men were like insane horses, that they needed a woman's hand to be tamed to get interest going... and she was right, maybe someone was snatching him away as we spoke.
Grasping defeat from the cusp of victory.
I nodded, still nervous, despite the pep-talk.
"I...", I began, "...I would very much appreciate it. You coming along as backup, I mean..."

[Lux Pulchrae]

Jolene Gudfrey in Conversation with Roderique

Jolene smiled softly at Roderique. She enjoyed Roderique's company, short as it is so far. She enjoyed his confidence and perhaps a hint of arrogance. Atleast he knew what he wanted, and did not mince words to make it clear.

"Ah well I do love a company with a long history.. and I do love a good challenge. I bet if you manage to impress me with your tour.. I know I could help you. I already have a plan in my mind to skyrocket your profits into new heights.

I have done so in the past, turned a local unkown IT company into one of the world leaders in the industry. So yes, I do look forward to the tour. What do you have in mind for me good sir?"

Roderique
'More than just a tour..' he thought before he shook it out of his head, "Just the basic tour of the company, how it is doing, some of the factories, and maybe a nice tour of my estate." he said responding to Jolene, giving a smile "One thing I must say Madame Gudfrey, is that I find this really optimistic capitalism of yours very cute. Almost as much as you. Mind you, I have no problem with it because my personal economic philosophy is whatever makes me a dollar, as is any businessman worth his cents, no?" he shrugged "But we don't operate on capitalism, or rather the state doesn't, capitalism is as much a demon to the nation as communism is, both devoid of humanity. Not to devolve into a long and boring economic debate which I'm sure you like, but it believes in a healthy amount corporatism. You know, when corporates or guilds of this market or that market work together in mutual interests, as long as those interests conform with the state's interest. But I would see no contradiction in us two helping each other out. Although...in retrospect the other companies might not like it." Roderique looked on at the ballroom, giving a sigh, raising his glass "You know what Madame Gudfrey? Fuck the syndicate, what are they gonna do? Kick me out?"

[quote=Teressien]I was a bit surprised by the gesture of Alessandre, who indeed looked funny. I got, what he wanted, but when Constantino clarified that to me, I nodded.
"Of course, Your Highness.", I said and bowed my head, "Something to nibble on will be delivered momentarily."
And off I went, to the next Refreshments Table, and took a liberal amount of nibbles. first of all, of course, the Onion-Nibbles, small, muffin-like nibbles of flaky pastry, which were filled with a mixture of bacon, onion, cream, egg and caraway and scalloped with cheese. They were quite spicy and delicious. Three Powidtascherl came along as well, a confectionary made from damson jam and potato dough, sugar on top, including a fork each. A few breadsticks scalloped with cheese came along, too (who said, that everything had to be fancy?). And a small plate of fried chicken balls, made from chicken breast came along as well.
With a smile, I returned and served, hopefully everything being to their liking.
I bowed my head and waited if they had another request...[/quote]

Table
The maiden confirmed that they did have some appetizers for them "Something to nibble on will be delivered momentarily." and left, all the men smiled, nodded and thanked her, returning to their talks.

"Something to nibble on? What am I? A damned rabbit or a rat?" Constantino thought to himself.

Alessandre pulled on Constantino's arm, pulling him a bit down "Ask her for drinks next." to which the son nodded, then sat down and poured himself some water.

A couple minutes later came the appetizers, and they looked pretty good to be honest. They all got a plate of each. The maiden bowed, waiting for her next request "Um, if you could bring us some wine, that would be wonderful my dear."

Luis took a bite of the onion-nibble "Not that bad" he thought before finishing with a another bite. Alessandre had the bread first breaking a piece of a breadstick, nothing he'd complain about. But there was something missing. "Excuse me, do you have any olio di oliva? Olive oil?" he asked in English.

[Polish Prussian Commonwealth]

Ida Findehoof.
I had my eyes on that man ever since he passed Enya and the Fürst.
Crown-Prince Berengar, of course appearing in a dashing uniform, was quite a looker, even without the uniform. But he was a soldier by heart and I knew, that those much rather dropped dead rather then appearing to a formal function out of uniform (thank you for that lesson, Grandmother).
I was blonde, my hair bound back in a braid, which left a few strands to frame my face, my grey-blue eyes sparkling as I approached. I, of course, wore Tracht, the bodice in dark blue, with white trimmings and closed by buttons, the half-apron of a lighter blue-shade, while the blouse was, of course, white, the sleeves going to the middle of my upper arms. I am a rather... well-equipped, shall we say.
And I knew that.
I had a relatively subtle swing to my hips as I approached Crown-Prince Berengar and the little girl, which he dragged to this occasion, shortly after they had said their goodbyes to the Ducal Prince Sabin.
"Meine Verehrung, Euer Hoheit!", I greeted him in Teressian German, bowing my head a bit. By now, I had a Selkie-inflection in Teressian accent, which made it all the more melodious. I continued in that language with a smile. "I am Ida Findehoof. It's a great pleasure to make Your acquaintance."
He might take notice of the name Findehoof, but that was another question...

Berengar smiled and returned the bow. "Good evening, Lady Findehoof. It is a pleasure to meet you as well-wait."
He froze. "Findehoof...Any relation to Admiral Naya Findehoof?"

While Berengar spoke, the girl next to him scrutinized Ida-not with hostility, but more with curiosity. Occasionally she did cast a nervous glance around, but, had Ida been paying attention, her earlier fear was, for the most part, gone-probably helped in no small part by the fact that there was far less dancing and fiddling with utensils than expected.

[AHSCA]

Kiah Findehoof.
"It was nice to watch.", I said with a firm nod, handing the glasses out, one for each. "A Polonaise is a relatively simple one, but quite easy to screw up, so... my veneration for your skills." I even bowed my head lightly to both. "Say, do you both have a spot free on your dance cards?" I smiled a bit sheepish. "I would love to dance with both of you!"
I even blushed at that, unsure if they would accept the proposal. It was quite daring, but only those who dare, win!
In this case, a dance.

Both smiled and nodded "For sure, we can spare a dance with you, Milady!" Pacifica merrily responded

"You got it. Though I'm not as elegant as Pacifica, she did most of the work and I followed her lead. But I'll do my best for you. If you want a dance right away then Pacifica should get first dibs"

[Folaisia]

Vin, Prinz von Dorch.
I sneezed. Heda...!
"My apologies, Mister Buchan.", I said and smiled sheepishly, "I liked the movie very much, but Heda was not that delighted. She's more available for romantic movies as well as avantgarde-movies and art-films, to be honest, so it's hardly surprising." I let a beat pass. "I study movie directing and actually already pitched a few ideas."

"That's understandable," Ruairi replied, nodding, "That's to be expected of one who isn't fond of action movies. Though, she can check out the drama films that I've acted in, Radiant as the Aurora being one example. And what few ideas are these?"

[Shikonjima]

Heda, Prinzessin von Dorch.
"That's very good to know.", I said and bowed my head lightly, "Though I would drag Vin along and he can get very competitive! It's actually quite cute, when we play video games together and Mama comes in asks, how we're doing." I grinned. "He always says, that he's wiping the floor with me - yet it's the other way around!"
I could hear Vin's sneeze.

Vin, Prinz von Dorch.
I sneezed. Heda...!
"My apologies, Mister Buchan.", I said and smiled sheepishly, "I liked the movie very much, but Heda was not that delighted. She's more available for romantic movies as well as avantgarde-movies and art-films, to be honest, so it's hardly surprising." I let a beat pass. "I study movie directing and actually already pitched a few ideas."

Aaltje Schreyg.
"I can imagine - kind of like walking with heels.", I said with a smile, "I remember my first tries with those and, believe me, I was glad, that Mama had this really, really thick carpet, which I kissed quite a few times..." I shrugged. "Ruined it, too, or rather my cats did. Sammt and Seyd - cute, both of them, but a handful!"

The Shikonjimanese Royals had to grin - both at Heda's comment on Vin claiming bragging rights, and Vin's sneeze.
Jirou even laughed. "Hm, depending on what you two usually play, I'd enjoy some competition as well!" - he said. "Just to see who's wiping the floor with whom at the end of the day!"
"Maybe you should finish your castle in Minecraft first, before you start new projects" - Shiruko said, laughing.
Kyouko and Keoke grinned and shrugged. Gamers ...
"In any case, when dancing at some ball in Shikonjima, there is no need to worry about wiping the floor" - Kyouko said, grinning, "we have housecleaning staff for that!"
"Maybe we could save them, if they wipe energically enough ..." - Keoke added, shrugging again.

Shiko nodded, grinning.
"So all you have to say to your Mama, if she asks for an explanation as to why why the carpet has more holes than a Swiss Cheese, is that Sammt and Seyd ruined it?"
She let a beat pass.
"Joking, of course. Yeah, I'd have wished such a carpet a few times as well. Unfortunately we didn't, and when we finally did get one, I was already safe enough walking in Geta so I wouldn't have to kiss it." She sighed. "All the love the marble has received from me ... in any case, aside from the footwear, our traditional dress is pretty easy to get into. You might have wondered why Keoke is the only one of us who has decided to wear Kimono instead of Teressian traditional dress - it has nothing to do with some 'Every look how Shikonjimanese I am' stuff, which he occasionally is alleged of wanting to show. It's rather because he always wears Kimono. Really, always - perhaps except when taking a shower. He says it's more practical - most importantly, because you can't button it wrong. It has no buttons." She shrugged.

[Rivienland]

Safura Mésange.
I saw, that the Prince seemed uncomfortable in this conversation and I knew, that Nello saw that, too... which was, why it was ideal for us to have drifted towards one of the seating groups in the ballroom, where an old friend of his sat, while others were around us.
For example, by the nearby Refreshments Table, Herzogin Alvina was nursing a lemonade.
Anyway, Nello nodded.
"I see, that you are a quite learned young man - you ask the right question.", he said and let a beat pass, "Our aim would be to bring Rivienland to the world stage, that people know, that it is a thing, that exist and respect it. To that end, Nouvelle-Dunkerque would be quite suitable, as it is a well-liked place of transshipment, so news would be getting out quite quickly and Rivienland would be able to trade with others without much of a hassle." He smiled, then bowed his head lightly. It went without saying, that such an arrangement would also useful for Nouvelle-Dunkerque. "Please bring the message to your Father, that Nouvelle-Dunkerque would be willing to become Rivienland's partner, maybe even ally. Now..." He looked a bit apologetic. "...I must excuse myself. I spotted an old friend nearby, who I have yet to greet. Have a nice evening, Prince. Maybe we'll meet again, later."
And with that, he was off.
I stayed with Prince Philippe for a moment. "If you are looking for someone to dance the Quadrille-Française with, I would be available.", I said and gave him a slight wink. "Until then!"
And with that, I followed Nello, leaving Philippe to his own devices.

Rena, Prinzessin von Wißenthen.
I blushed even redder when Maria giggled, but her hand reassured me quite a bit.
She did have a point with quoting her mother, men were like insane horses, that they needed a woman's hand to be tamed to get interest going... and she was right, maybe someone was snatching him away as we spoke.
Grasping defeat from the cusp of victory.
I nodded, still nervous, despite the pep-talk.
"I...", I began, "...I would very much appreciate it. You coming along as backup, I mean..."

Prince Philippe
“Indeed,” the Prince replied to the foreign minister’s idea. “I agree that would be a possible reality for both our nations and I am sure my father would be quite interested. Though,” he leaned closer to the minister, “I must advise you, in terms of building a more prosperous relationship, to contact my older brother and heir, Prince Louis. While my father is in power, my brother holds much influence over our current government if you know what I mean.” As Aregnaudeau excused himself Philippe bowed once more and said, “Until another time, Your Excellency.”

Glad to be done with that conversation the Prince reflected on his role within the Grand Duchy. While certainly some of his siblings preferred the political dealings of the realm, like Lou or Felix, Philippe was always drawn to other matters. If he ever, God forbid, was forced by succession to rule the Grand Duchy he would out of duty, but otherwise he would keep himself to his balls and parties.

As Safura spoke again, the Prince was pulled back into reality. She was kind to offer another dance, but Philippe knew he wanted to move on. Giving a slight nod, the Prince saw the young lady walk off. Taking a moment to breath, Philippe’s eyes immediately fell among a young woman near the refreshments table. While being possibly quite younger than the Prince, by five years or more, he was still struck by how beautiful her dress was.

Moving towards the woman, the Prince bowed and said, “Greetings, my lady. I am Prince Philippe of Rivienland. I am sorry to bother you, but I just wanted to compliment your dress this evening. It is quite spectacular.”

Princess Maria
“Then it is settled,” Maria said as she stood. While she was not always so bold, the Princess took a liking to Rena and became invested in her romance. Besides, what else could Maria look forward to this evening other than setting up this new acquaintance with a man.

“Shall you lead the way, or would you like to tell me the man I am searching for?”

[Port Ember]

Roderique
'More than just a tour..' he thought before he shook it out of his head, "Just the basic tour of the company, how it is doing, some of the factories, and maybe a nice tour of my estate." he said responding to Jolene, giving a smile "One thing I must say Madame Gudfrey, is that I find this really optimistic capitalism of yours very cute. Almost as much as you. Mind you, I have no problem with it because my personal economic philosophy is whatever makes me a dollar, as is any businessman worth his cents, no?" he shrugged "But we don't operate on capitalism, or rather the state doesn't, capitalism is as much a demon to the nation as communism is, both devoid of humanity. Not to devolve into a long and boring economic debate which I'm sure you like, but it believes in a healthy amount corporatism. You know, when corporates or guilds of this market or that market work together in mutual interests, as long as those interests conform with the state's interest. But I would see no contradiction in us two helping each other out. Although...in retrospect the other companies might not like it." Roderique looked on at the ballroom, giving a sigh, raising his glass "You know what Madame Gudfrey? Fuck the syndicate, what are they gonna do? Kick me out?"

Jolene Gudfrey in Conversation with Roderique

Jolene chuckled softly and forced a shy blush to form on her soft cheeks. Slight flirtation have always benefited her in the past. In a world where men think they rule, a girl needs to do what she needs to do in order to turn situations slightly in her favour..

Although Roderique was flirting his ass off, and Jolene played along, she was not at the moment really falling for it. She was young and gorgeous - and she knew it. She felt that she could get any man - or women whom she wanted at any time. This made romance a bit boring, yet wanted more at the same time. Still it could not hurt to pretend to play along.

"Well my good sir, I am looking forward to my trip to your organisation.. and your estate.." she flashed a very soft, very sneaky wink - so well hidden that he would question whether it really happened, "I am pleased that you do not hold the same distrust in capitalism as your government, as I am indeed a self proclaimed advocate for capitalism. But that would indeed turn into a long conversation - one which could wait for your estate..

But you have just called me cute, and have decided to raise the flag for capitalism and 'stick it to the man', so we indeed have reason for celebration.." she clinked her wine glass against Roderique's extended champaigne glass, and took a deep sip of her wine. "Now I know of your opposition to sociol protocol, yet its not all bad you know.. Like asking a young lass for a dance for example.."

[Danceria]

The palace's photographers indeed nodded sagely, for they knew one thing: Whoever would go to the gardens tonight was not to be disturbed in the gardens, the Fürstliche Garde took care of that. The Gardens were a refuge, away from the hustle and bustle of the ballroom, not to be disturbed by anyone.
Photographing them exiting, though, was fair game!

Princess Fara bint-Dardan.
As soon as we left the rabid hyenas behind and found a little spot to sit, on a bench under a Teressien Lilac in full bloom. I knew, that he was crafting excuses and I knew, that he had good reasons, otherwise he would not dare to show his face to me, but when he hugged me close to his chest, I closed my eyes.
All anger was forgotten as I took a couple of deep breaths.
There were no tears left to shed. I still buried my face in his chest, glad for him to be here. Moments turned into minutes.
I knew, what was on his mind.
"Tell me, Aceus...", I whispered, "...why?"
I wanted to hear it from him.

Morgane Macánta of the Tribe of Cork.
When the old man greeted Adil, I saw in his eyes, that he recognized the name Stavros Galanis - and so did I. Quite an interesting choice as a diplomatic envoy to take along, Aceus-Rí...
"The pleasure is mine.", Adil said and I knew, that he meant it in more ways then one and was holding back from asking Stavros for an autograph. Boys...
He then turned to me and told me it was a pleasure to him as well to meet me, to which I replied with: "Morgane Macánta of the Tribe of Cork, High Priestess of the Cult of Cailb.", I said and bowed my head in respect of his age. "She's the Goddess of Death, Destruction, Rebirth and Pudding of the Selkie-Pantheon."
I usually explained that, because while foreigners usually knew Rhiannon the Fertility-Goddess, Carman Fea as Goddess of War and the Bros Lodan Lir and Ladra, Cailb had a lot of misconceptions attached to her.
Just then, Prince Philippe returned with Safura, thanking her for the dance and asking, if we minded her absence.
Aregnaudeau nodded at the young man: "Of course not!", he said, "Although I must confess to being a bit jealous..." Safura joined his side with a giggle as the three separated with a small bow. "Now, then, Prince Philippe..."

Safura Mésange.
Nello Aregnaudeau was a clever foreign politician, well aware of what assets he had and how he could use them - and to that end, despite all of his fanboying over me and Marie, we were, at the end of the day, only that for him: Assets.
He had an ideal pokerface.
"Now, then, Prince Philippe...", he began, "...to my understanding, you and Rivienland are Catholic?" He let a beat pass. "I must say, that our relationship with the Catholic Church is a bit... strained, to say the least, but that should not keep our two nations from becoming friends." He let a beat pass. "I hope so, at least, as fellow Brothers in Christ."

Aceus

---

“...Cowardice” he replied simply. “It was cowardly to inflict pain on innocents if he apparently had an axe to grind with Aurelia. Cowardly of my own staff, to think that even with my country’s five-hundredth birthday coming up...they couldn’t afford to have me look slightly grimaced during any photo shoots.” Aceus’s eyes glowered with anger. “A week and a half... and even then, it was only because I asked how best to accommodate the Sultana or your family. They ask of me to find the most beautiful woman in the world, and not be concerned for her health and the health of her family? To put on some fake smile and pretend that everything will be okay?” he paused and sighed. “It was barely noted even in news outlets...I…” the Dancerian King looked downcast and ashamed. “...I have no excuses. Now is not the time for excuses. Now I just need to hope there is some way to help...heal...”

Rev. Stavros

---

It was rather remarkable, that it at least appeared that the Patriarch had heard, and seemed rather receptive to my presence. I of course could not gauge the age of His Beatitude, for he lacked a beard typically synonymous with a high ranking cleric. Of course, age mattered little to me, and his youth would mean that the Church in Kyrenaia were either very desperate, or he had God’s will on his side.
It appeared that Patriarch Adil would be preoccupied with the presence of one Prince Phillipe of Rivienland and the relations of churches between them of which I would wisely defer to him. From my own understanding, out of all the Churches of Kyrenaia and her associates, the Church in Kyrenaia was both the oldest and the most redeemable in theology. True, nontrinitarianism was the oldest schism of Christology, but they at least placed some nominal importance on Christ rather than ignoring Him, like “Sailor’s Christianity” or “Oceanbound Catharism” as the more hardliners would disparage. Stavros almost pitied the Patriarch, or rather, the Kyrenaian Christian community. They were so isolated and insular from the rest of the world, delegated as a second class for much of the Sultanate’s history, they deserve to find some community to befriend and guide them. Instead, Stavros turned to the Selkie-Priestess: she would provide more intergral information regarding Aceus’s own plans.
“Sweet pudding, meatpudding, custard, or Blancmange?” the elder asked, genuinely intrigued. Perhaps there was a ceremonial meal associated with death or remembrance of someone, where pudding was apparently a part of it. Or perhaps that was something that apparently needed a patron deity, and Cailb was apparently the one who looked after everything that was forgotten or neglected.

[The Scarlet Eagle]

Khalid Faris.
Wilrun nodded at Myers' gratitude. It was something, that visitors usually got quickly, that music and dancing were very important around these parts, as were manners and etiquette. Some called it stifling, but it was very nice, for formality gave interactions structure.
And that came from a man, who's hobby had been to dodge formalities as a teenager!
Anyway, when the Dowager-Empress asked me about my favourite subjects in my photography, I smiled. "I focus on the beauty of people and their surroundings, their expressions and interactions.", I replied, "I also practice nude photography, though in the artistic sense. There'll be a coffee table book coming out, soon, with a lot of my photographs." I let a beat pass. "Bicíní Industries was so nice and allowed me to shoot with some of their people."

Wilrun, Baronin von Port Monee.
I smiled.
"I am honoured that you would consider me an appropriate dancing partner for you, Colonel, but I'm afraid, that I must decline.", I said and took out my dance card. It was indeed a card, listing all the dances and the pieces played for it, next to it a name. Next to all of them. The Polonaise with Khalid, the Kyrenaian Polka with Prince Damir, the Polka after that with Gerulf von Sykane, the Waltz with Vin Erenback, the Quadrille-Française with Son Excellence Lieven Barillon, the following Polka with Khalid again, the Selkie-Polka with Áed Gadhair, the Waltz after that with Fürst Alrich, the Quadrille-Lanciers with Yvain Saighead and the final waltz with Khalid again. "My dance card's already full." I put it back into my pocket. "My apologies."

Agathe and Khalid
"Interesting, replies the Dowager Empress. Speaking of nude representation, in Kyrenaian Art, when it first appeared, did it caused quite the scandal, like for example Le Déjeuner sur l'Herbe by Edouard Manet did in France back 1863, or was it accepted well?

Bradley and Wilrun
"So that's how it looks like, says Myers as he details the card with great attention. Sorry to look surprised like that, he continues once the Baronin has put it back in her pocket, but it's the first time I see one for real. You see, in the Empire, these have fallen out of use around the middle of the 19th century. Nowadays, men who want to dance with a women ask her before the last one and the next one, give her a visiting card, and wait for her to come back to them once she has chosen her partner for the next dance. That means a woman doesn't know who her dance partners will be all along the evening. Except her plus one of course.
So, would you mind telling me more about how it works with dance cards around these parts? asks the Colonel with a smile. Oh, and before I forget..." he adds as he takes out a visiting card from one of his pockets, and presents her to the Baronin to take, "...if you ever need a point of entry in the Empire, I'm at your disposal."

[Teressien]

Table
The maiden confirmed that they did have some appetizers for them "Something to nibble on will be delivered momentarily." and left, all the men smiled, nodded and thanked her, returning to their talks.

"Something to nibble on? What am I? A damned rabbit or a rat?" Constantino thought to himself.

Alessandre pulled on Constantino's arm, pulling him a bit down "Ask her for drinks next." to which the son nodded, then sat down and poured himself some water.

A couple minutes later came the appetizers, and they looked pretty good to be honest. They all got a plate of each. The maiden bowed, waiting for her next request "Um, if you could bring us some wine, that would be wonderful my dear."

Luis took a bite of the onion-nibble "Not that bad" he thought before finishing with a another bite. Alessandre had the bread first breaking a piece of a breadstick, nothing he'd complain about. But there was something missing. "Excuse me, do you have any olio di oliva? Olive oil?" he asked in English.

Lone Maachen.
I smiled and nodded at the request of Lord Constantino, then Lord Alessandre asked for Olive Oil. I nodded.
"Of course, Sirs.", I replied and turned, being off.
For a moment, I wondered, what place they came from to blemish such wonderful breadsticks with olive oil of all things, but they were the guests of my Fürst, so I had little to say about their culinary wishes. I had to serve and that would be, what I would do. Of course one would have to look very closely to see anything on my face in regards to that.
The olive oil I got was in small dishes of white porcelain, square little things, two of which I loaded onto my tablet and then added a few glasses of red wine, three in total. It was Hektlinger Rotwein, from a grape variety for colder climates. The deep blue grapes made a deep red, ruby red wine, full-bodied in taste and a wide bouquet of different, fruity tastes, reminding people of blackberries.
I returned to the table of the three gentlemen and set them out and bowed my head. If they would have questions concerning the wine, I would be happy to answer them.

Berengar smiled and returned the bow. "Good evening, Lady Findehoof. It is a pleasure to meet you as well-wait."
He froze. "Findehoof...Any relation to Admiral Naya Findehoof?"

While Berengar spoke, the girl next to him scrutinized Ida-not with hostility, but more with curiosity. Occasionally she did cast a nervous glance around, but, had Ida been paying attention, her earlier fear was, for the most part, gone-probably helped in no small part by the fact that there was far less dancing and fiddling with utensils than expected.

Ida Findehoof.
I nodded.
"She's my Grandmother, yes.", I said with a small smile, "I don't have that much contact with her, though, she's very busy, I'm very busy and study in Fortham in the Free Lands. My subject is Philosophy. I heard, that the Commonwealth brought forth quite a few philosophers itself, both in the good sense and the bad?"
I smiled slightly - sure, there were a lot of philosophers from his part of the world and I would not claim to know them all (just as I wouldn't claim knowing all Selkie-Philosphers), but I knew some. The choice, which we would talk about, if at all, was his.
I was curious as to where this conversation would lead.

Both smiled and nodded "For sure, we can spare a dance with you, Milady!" Pacifica merrily responded

"You got it. Though I'm not as elegant as Pacifica, she did most of the work and I followed her lead. But I'll do my best for you. If you want a dance right away then Pacifica should get first dibs"

Kiah Findehoof.
"Alright!", I said with a smile, looked to Pacifica, "We'll dance the Kyrenaian Polka together and then..." I smiled at Miela. "...we'll take the polka after that together?" I grinned. "I'd be glad to!"
I got out my dance card and a pen.
"Though, short question, how are your names spelled?", I asked with a bit of sheepishness.

"That's understandable," Ruairi replied, nodding, "That's to be expected of one who isn't fond of action movies. Though, she can check out the drama films that I've acted in, Radiant as the Aurora being one example. And what few ideas are these?"

Vin, Prinz von Dorch.
"Radiant as the Aurora, got it.", I said with a grin, "Would be a new one for me, too, so let's see it!" I then sighed. "As for the ideas... mostly historical dramas, actually. My personal favourite was a bit about Goedele Silex, that's a pirate from Nouvelle-Dunkerque, who died in 1726, when her ship, the Goéland, fought against a pair of Teressian frigates. She is said to have fought like a Lioness and I wanted have the movie depict not only the battle itself, but also the inner ramifications and processes of her hunters."

The Shikonjimanese Royals had to grin - both at Heda's comment on Vin claiming bragging rights, and Vin's sneeze.
Jirou even laughed. "Hm, depending on what you two usually play, I'd enjoy some competition as well!" - he said. "Just to see who's wiping the floor with whom at the end of the day!"
"Maybe you should finish your castle in Minecraft first, before you start new projects" - Shiruko said, laughing.
Kyouko and Keoke grinned and shrugged. Gamers ...
"In any case, when dancing at some ball in Shikonjima, there is no need to worry about wiping the floor" - Kyouko said, grinning, "we have housecleaning staff for that!"
"Maybe we could save them, if they wipe energically enough ..." - Keoke added, shrugging again.

Shiko nodded, grinning.
"So all you have to say to your Mama, if she asks for an explanation as to why why the carpet has more holes than a Swiss Cheese, is that Sammt and Seyd ruined it?"
She let a beat pass.
"Joking, of course. Yeah, I'd have wished such a carpet a few times as well. Unfortunately we didn't, and when we finally did get one, I was already safe enough walking in Geta so I wouldn't have to kiss it." She sighed. "All the love the marble has received from me ... in any case, aside from the footwear, our traditional dress is pretty easy to get into. You might have wondered why Keoke is the only one of us who has decided to wear Kimono instead of Teressian traditional dress - it has nothing to do with some 'Every look how Shikonjimanese I am' stuff, which he occasionally is alleged of wanting to show. It's rather because he always wears Kimono. Really, always - perhaps except when taking a shower. He says it's more practical - most importantly, because you can't button it wrong. It has no buttons." She shrugged.

Heda, Prinzessin von Dorch.
I smiled. "Indeed, we might be able to at least take care of the worst of it, though that depends on how long the dresses are.", I said with a nod, then turned to Jirou, "Though, I find myself wondering: You play Minecraft?" I grinned. "Survival or Creative, Multi- or Single-Player?"
Well, I did have a liking for video games. Not like Vin and movies, who liked movies so much, that he actually studied them and would make it his job, wouldn't he become a Herzog, but I liked them. The global phenomenon, which was Minecraft, had of course not passed Teressien without impact.

Aaltje Schreyg.
I giggled.
"That's of course an important point.", I conceded with a nod, "You are already a learned woman in regards of how many buttons a Tracht has, so I can understand it from that viewpoint." I let a beat pass. "I would really love to try one out one day, including Geda, if that is possible."
With my mind made up, I wondered about something else.
"Though, amongst us, Prince Keoke and Fürst Alrich, and especially his date, should get together one of these days.", I said and sighed, "You see, Miss Findehoof is Half-Teressian, Half-Selkie, which of course is not that much of a hassle for many, her sweet bubblyness wins over hearts left and right, but... let's just say, that Teressien has elements, which are traditionalistic and conservative to a very high degree." I let a beat pass. "And those, of course, want to keep, I quote, 'the blood pure' and such nonsense."

Prince Philippe
“Indeed,” the Prince replied to the foreign minister’s idea. “I agree that would be a possible reality for both our nations and I am sure my father would be quite interested. Though,” he leaned closer to the minister, “I must advise you, in terms of building a more prosperous relationship, to contact my older brother and heir, Prince Louis. While my father is in power, my brother holds much influence over our current government if you know what I mean.” As Aregnaudeau excused himself Philippe bowed once more and said, “Until another time, Your Excellency.”

Glad to be done with that conversation the Prince reflected on his role within the Grand Duchy. While certainly some of his siblings preferred the political dealings of the realm, like Lou or Felix, Philippe was always drawn to other matters. If he ever, God forbid, was forced by succession to rule the Grand Duchy he would out of duty, but otherwise he would keep himself to his balls and parties.

As Safura spoke again, the Prince was pulled back into reality. She was kind to offer another dance, but Philippe knew he wanted to move on. Giving a slight nod, the Prince saw the young lady walk off. Taking a moment to breath, Philippe’s eyes immediately fell among a young woman near the refreshments table. While being possibly quite younger than the Prince, by five years or more, he was still struck by how beautiful her dress was.

Moving towards the woman, the Prince bowed and said, “Greetings, my lady. I am Prince Philippe of Rivienland. I am sorry to bother you, but I just wanted to compliment your dress this evening. It is quite spectacular.”

Princess Maria
“Then it is settled,” Maria said as she stood. While she was not always so bold, the Princess took a liking to Rena and became invested in her romance. Besides, what else could Maria look forward to this evening other than setting up this new acquaintance with a man.

“Shall you lead the way, or would you like to tell me the man I am searching for?”

Herzogin Alvina von Raycbucht.
I was nursing my lemonade, still a bit miffed by the Imperials, but really... not much anymore. The lemonade let me things see in perspective a bit, of a mother concerned for her son doing stupid things and actually not having the prior knowledge, if I was not mistaken in my gossip.
Regardless, I looked forward to speaking with Aurelia later, she and her were friends to the point of me even having a few dresses for her - my not-so-secret passion!
So, when a good-looking man, who I think I recognized as Prince Philippe, he introduced himself as that as well, so bully for me, came to me and 'bothered' me about my dress and how spectacular it looked, I could not help but blush and smile.
"Thank you, Your Royal Highness, that is very nice of You.", I said and bowed my head lightly in gratitude. "I am Alvina, the Herzogin of Raycbucht. It's a great pleasure to meet You, Prince Philippe." I let a beat pass. "Care to join me for a lemonade?"

Rena, Prinzessin von Wißenthen.
I rose as well and shook my head.
"No, I'll lead.", I said and took a few deep breaths of the fresh evening air, "You'll be... well, I believe, if we were men, I'd call you my wingman, but..." I took another deep breath. "Spirits above and below, I must look pathetic!"
I giggled.
"Thank you, Maria.", I said to her, smiled, took another breath, "No matter how this ends, know, that Schloss Reiherbucht will always gladly have you." I took another breath. "Then onto the breach, right?"

Aceus

---

“...Cowardice” he replied simply. “It was cowardly to inflict pain on innocents if he apparently had an axe to grind with Aurelia. Cowardly of my own staff, to think that even with my country’s five-hundredth birthday coming up...they couldn’t afford to have me look slightly grimaced during any photo shoots.” Aceus’s eyes glowered with anger. “A week and a half... and even then, it was only because I asked how best to accommodate the Sultana or your family. They ask of me to find the most beautiful woman in the world, and not be concerned for her health and the health of her family? To put on some fake smile and pretend that everything will be okay?” he paused and sighed. “It was barely noted even in news outlets...I…” the Dancerian King looked downcast and ashamed. “...I have no excuses. Now is not the time for excuses. Now I just need to hope there is some way to help...heal...”

Rev. Stavros

---

It was rather remarkable, that it at least appeared that the Patriarch had heard, and seemed rather receptive to my presence. I of course could not gauge the age of His Beatitude, for he lacked a beard typically synonymous with a high ranking cleric. Of course, age mattered little to me, and his youth would mean that the Church in Kyrenaia were either very desperate, or he had God’s will on his side.
It appeared that Patriarch Adil would be preoccupied with the presence of one Prince Phillipe of Rivienland and the relations of churches between them of which I would wisely defer to him. From my own understanding, out of all the Churches of Kyrenaia and her associates, the Church in Kyrenaia was both the oldest and the most redeemable in theology. True, nontrinitarianism was the oldest schism of Christology, but they at least placed some nominal importance on Christ rather than ignoring Him, like “Sailor’s Christianity” or “Oceanbound Catharism” as the more hardliners would disparage. Stavros almost pitied the Patriarch, or rather, the Kyrenaian Christian community. They were so isolated and insular from the rest of the world, delegated as a second class for much of the Sultanate’s history, they deserve to find some community to befriend and guide them. Instead, Stavros turned to the Selkie-Priestess: she would provide more intergral information regarding Aceus’s own plans.
“Sweet pudding, meatpudding, custard, or Blancmange?” the elder asked, genuinely intrigued. Perhaps there was a ceremonial meal associated with death or remembrance of someone, where pudding was apparently a part of it. Or perhaps that was something that apparently needed a patron deity, and Cailb was apparently the one who looked after everything that was forgotten or neglected.

Princess Fara bint-Dardan.
"I don't want to hear excuses, apologies or explanations.", I told him, whispered, "You are here and that is the important part. Feeling your arms, your heartbeat... it is doing more then anything else could for me..."
I swallowed.
"Yet, I know, that Fadia looks forward to meeting your again, maybe even a dance, if I would let her.", I got out a hiccupping laugh, "Of course I would... I know, that you would not step on her toes." I buried my face in his chest. "It's so painful, you know? Coming into her bedroom, seeing her sitting there, knowing, that she would do nothing more then come along, wear a pretty dress herself, maybe get a few Teressian Princes to stand in line for a chance to dance... maybe even taking out one for a stroll through the gardens..."
I let a beat pass.
"Kalak guards her, since I can not. He keeps her company, when I can not.", I told him, "He's a good lad."

Morgane Macánta of the Tribe of Cork.
I had to snort in amusement at the question - mainly due to it coming completely out of left field. That was not, what I expected him to ask!
I smiled at him. "All of them. Though old legends tell of an occasion, when Rhiannon invited for a small snack and Cailb fell in love with her pudding recipe, going on a quest to find a relic in exchange. That one's a meat pudding, we call that one Milseog. Aside from that, she's generally seen as Goddess of all kinds of pudding."
I shrugged.
"Pudding is also an important part of funeral festivities, as we mourn the loss of someone held dear not by being sad about him or her being gone, but by being happy about him or her having been there.", I said and smiled, "I know, it might be a bit weird for a Christian to hear that."

Agathe and Khalid
"Interesting, replies the Dowager Empress. Speaking of nude representation, in Kyrenaian Art, when it first appeared, did it caused quite the scandal, like for example Le Déjeuner sur l'Herbe by Edouard Manet did in France back 1863, or was it accepted well?

Bradley and Wilrun
"So that's how it looks like, says Myers as he details the card with great attention. Sorry to look surprised like that, he continues once the Baronin has put it back in her pocket, but it's the first time I see one for real. You see, in the Empire, these have fallen out of use around the middle of the 19th century. Nowadays, men who want to dance with a women ask her before the last one and the next one, give her a visiting card, and wait for her to come back to them once she has chosen her partner for the next dance. That means a woman doesn't know who her dance partners will be all along the evening. Except her plus one of course.
So, would you mind telling me more about how it works with dance cards around these parts? asks the Colonel with a smile. Oh, and before I forget..." he adds as he takes out a visiting card from one of his pockets, and presents her to the Baronin to take, "...if you ever need a point of entry in the Empire, I'm at your disposal."

Khalid Faris.
"You mean, nude photography?", I asked, then smiled, "Art depicting people in various states of undress was always dependent on both the artist, his execution of it and the society, but never really shunned." I smiled. "To give you a better idea, for quite some time, centuries long since past, the fashion in Kyrenaia Handmaiden's Dress Design has been to have the silk as translucent as possible, to the point of on Ilkhan even pointing out, that one of his fellow Ilkhans might as well have the Handmaidens run around undressed, that would at least safe the money to be used elsewhere." I grinned. "Come the next visit, that Ilkhan's Handmaidens indeed walked around without a scrap of silk on them. He took the advice of his fellow Ilkhan and indeed saved the money, investing it in a new irrigation system."
I shrugged.
"That's, at least, how the story goes.", I added.

Wilrun, Baronin von Port Monee.
I took the card with a thankful bow of my head, breathed a kiss on it, my eyes not leaving the Colonel's and then put it away, throwing him a wink.
"A dance card is not that mysterious of an object and never came out of fashion.", I explained, "It simply works like this: Either before a ball or during it, a man approaches a woman, asks her for a dance. She can, then, either directly decline or accept his proposal, maybe even go into which specific dance is requested... Of course, that system can be turned on its head by the woman asking, but usually, it's the man asking. Or, in case of homosexuals, the male part." I shrugged. "Some, especially younger, women measure their self-worth by how quickly they got their dance cards full and with whom, veritable competitions breaking out..."
I smiled, let a beat pass.
"Of course, this has let to drama quite some time.", I added.

[Shikonjima]

Heda, Prinzessin von Dorch.
I smiled. "Indeed, we might be able to at least take care of the worst of it, though that depends on how long the dresses are.", I said with a nod, then turned to Jirou, "Though, I find myself wondering: You play Minecraft?" I grinned. "Survival or Creative, Multi- or Single-Player?"
Well, I did have a liking for video games. Not like Vin and movies, who liked movies so much, that he actually studied them and would make it his job, wouldn't he become a Herzog, but I liked them. The global phenomenon, which was Minecraft, had of course not passed Teressien without impact.

Aaltje Schreyg.
I giggled.
"That's of course an important point.", I conceded with a nod, "You are already a learned woman in regards of how many buttons a Tracht has, so I can understand it from that viewpoint." I let a beat pass. "I would really love to try one out one day, including Geda, if that is possible."
With my mind made up, I wondered about something else.
"Though, amongst us, Prince Keoke and Fürst Alrich, and especially his date, should get together one of these days.", I said and sighed, "You see, Miss Findehoof is Half-Teressian, Half-Selkie, which of course is not that much of a hassle for many, her sweet bubblyness wins over hearts left and right, but... let's just say, that Teressien has elements, which are traditionalistic and conservative to a very high degree." I let a beat pass. "And those, of course, want to keep, I quote, 'the blood pure' and such nonsense."

Jirou, who would surely be the first known ruler of a Fief in Shikonjima known to be a passionate Minecraft player once he would be Count of Shirayuki someday, grinned back at Heda's question. Indeed, Teressien had not missed the global trend.
He said, "I play Survival only! Creative mode is for the noobs who are too lazy to farm and mine, if you ask me." He let a beat pass. "For most time, I work at my little empire in Single-Player, but I've also played Multi-Player with some of my mates for quite some time. To be precise, on an Alternate-History Roleplay Server, if this rings a bell with you."
Now, Shiruko, 'Speedy', nodded. "It was such a lot of fun, that I've even played along during that time - which confused quite a few of the other players, especially those who knew, that I actually have different passions."
"So, it works like this" - Jirou began to explain, "you have a Minecraft world based on the real world, on a smaller format, of course, but with the shapes and landscapes of real-world countries. You join a country by joining a faction, which is a protection mode for certain areas, to make sure, that only those, who belong to a faction, can build or remove blocks in a given area. In order to become a Leader of your faction, you have to apply in the forums belonging to the server, run by the server's admins and moderators. This is to make sure, that you only run a country you know the history, culture, and architecture of. If the Mods accept you, you're the boss in your country, roleplaying as its ruler in the historical era the server date is set in. In case of our server, it was 1900, so I had to build up the country I ran, which was, of course, the Shikonjimanese Empire, with our homecountry's architecture, and of course, staying realistic to the times, so no large server rooms with sophisticated redstone clocks or something like that, like I build them in my Single-Player world."
"The Alt-History part means, that a particular date is set - in this case 1900, the year continuing each Minecraft year, which would be around three days in real life" - Shiruko added. "Everything that happened until 1900 in real life is set as a base for the Roleplay; everything from that date can be alternated - of course, still in a realistic manner. Though, it was a lot of fun to see Jirou's old friends from Nienhagen already unifying Lillorainen in 1906 and making it the new Nordic World Empire, with a power it never has gained in real life." She laughed.

Shiko had smiled and nodded, as Aaltje had mentioned, that she would love to try wearing Shikonjimanese Dress, including the footwear. As she continued with another topic, a more serious and maybe also somewhat touchy one, Shiko had already finished her glass of water and taken two glasses, one another glass of water and one of wine, the latter of which she now took a sip of, not without raising the glass for a moment.
She nodded.
"I know that issue perfectly, indeed" - she said. "As you are likely to know, Kyouko and I have direct Sharulsi roots; our Grandfather, Yoshita Yamura, has been together with, and also married, a lady named Saikhantsetseg Laagan, a merchant woman from Ulaanels, and had five children with her, one of them being our Dad Shinji Yamura - and he got selected as the new Ruler by the Council of the Kazoku in 1982 and remained as such until he passed away in 2011, Kyouko becoming his successor. And maybe, we all look alike for you, but if you know what to pay attention to, you will see, that Kyouko and I still have distinct facial features a 'pure' Shikonjimanese does not have."
She let a beat pass.
"So, this for the background. When Dad's designation got made public, many nationalists and traditionalists protested. It was a scandal for them, that a Half-Sharulsi gains the Throne. They considered the Royal Family's blood soiled - if you read publications by nationalists from back then, you will find reference to Grandma as a 'Mongol Slut' and worse insults I will not quote now." She took another a sip. "Hmm, a good drop! Now, of course the times have changed. Today, there is a bond of friendship between us and the Sharulsi the degree thereof can be compared to, say, the one between the Selkie and Kyrenaians. Kyouko is on a first-name basis with Atakheer Khan; there are trade agreements, student exchange programs and many more fields of cooperation between our countries. And you must see, that the seventies and eighties were a time when the Shikonjimanese Empire was declining and the economy was in ruins. That's an uncomfortable situation where right-wingers easily gain popularity. Of course, there are still some of them left, but we're not confronted with these elements a lot anymore."
She let another beat pass.
"And Shikonjimanese Royals having foreign roots is not that unusual" - she continued. "Think of Keoke, who is a Half-Confederado, or think of Jirou, who is, mathematically spoken, Half-Shamsiyyan, for he has two Grandparents from the Lands of the Sun. Not to mention, that most Shikonjimanese will discover foreign roots, if they dig in their family history enough, us Royals being no exception. So yes, if there is one family around which Alrich-Koushaku and Miss Findehoof will find a lot of appreciation from, then it's ours."

[The Scarlet Eagle]

Khalid Faris.
"You mean, nude photography?", I asked, then smiled, "Art depicting people in various states of undress was always dependent on both the artist, his execution of it and the society, but never really shunned." I smiled. "To give you a better idea, for quite some time, centuries long since past, the fashion in Kyrenaia Handmaiden's Dress Design has been to have the silk as translucent as possible, to the point of on Ilkhan even pointing out, that one of his fellow Ilkhans might as well have the Handmaidens run around undressed, that would at least safe the money to be used elsewhere." I grinned. "Come the next visit, that Ilkhan's Handmaidens indeed walked around without a scrap of silk on them. He took the advice of his fellow Ilkhan and indeed saved the money, investing it in a new irrigation system."
I shrugged.
"That's, at least, how the story goes.", I added.

Wilrun, Baronin von Port Monee.
I took the card with a thankful bow of my head, breathed a kiss on it, my eyes not leaving the Colonel's and then put it away, throwing him a wink.
"A dance card is not that mysterious of an object and never came out of fashion.", I explained, "It simply works like this: Either before a ball or during it, a man approaches a woman, asks her for a dance. She can, then, either directly decline or accept his proposal, maybe even go into which specific dance is requested... Of course, that system can be turned on its head by the woman asking, but usually, it's the man asking. Or, in case of homosexuals, the male part." I shrugged. "Some, especially younger, women measure their self-worth by how quickly they got their dance cards full and with whom, veritable competitions breaking out..."
I smiled, let a beat pass.
"Of course, this has let to drama quite some time.", I added.

Agathe
"Nice story, replies the Dowager Empress with a smile of her own. In the Empire, you see, things have been a bit different. Before The Rebirth, it was very shunned to represent women in a state of very light clothing, let alone nudity. But after The Rebirth War and the start of the reign of Anaximander the Great, a few years later, for his wife's Columbia's birthday, a painter offers her a portrait of her in an almost translucent dress. While many of the guests present are shocked, the Empress likes it, and says that women should be put in better light in artistic representations.
And this is how nude representation and other types of depiction portraying women in light apparel started."

Bradley
"I can imagine the competitions may be fun to watch, replies the Colonel, having thrown a wink back at the Baronin with his only remaining eye. Anyway, would you mind telling me more about your Domain, if you don't mind. I admit, I was so focused on the dance classes for the past week, I missed most notes the Department of Stae had prepared for Agathe and I, admits Myers with a sheepish smile.

[Polish Prussian Commonwealth]

Ida Findehoof.
I nodded.
"She's my Grandmother, yes.", I said with a small smile, "I don't have that much contact with her, though, she's very busy, I'm very busy and study in Fortham in the Free Lands. My subject is Philosophy. I heard, that the Commonwealth brought forth quite a few philosophers itself, both in the good sense and the bad?"
I smiled slightly - sure, there were a lot of philosophers from his part of the world and I would not claim to know them all (just as I wouldn't claim knowing all Selkie-Philosphers), but I knew some. The choice, which we would talk about, if at all, was his.
I was curious as to where this conversation would lead.

Berengar remained silent for a few seconds.
In all honesty, he knew next to nothing with regards to philosophy. He had never needed it, after all. One didn't exactly need Aristotelian metaphysics to man a Humvee's gun turret.
Finally, he decided 'To the hell with it' and answered honestly.
"I can't say much about that. I've only heard of the entry-tier ones. Kant, Marx, Hegel, Nietzsche, Schopenhauer...even then, I can't say much about them. My formal schooling ended in the 11th year. After that, signed up with the Reichswehr, ended up being a glorified trucker in Iraq, so sadly, I never really studied it in depth...or at all, to be honest. I would be interested in studying it, though, once I get back to college."

Erika continued to hang back, scrutinizing Ida and trying to figure out why the hell she had approached Berengar.
Presumably, she had approached Berengar because she was interested in him. That wouldn't be a surprise-he looked rather handsome, even to disinterested eyes. Combine that with his position, and you usually got a shit-ton of gold-diggers and women who only want to climb the social ladder.

Of course, you also occasionally get genuinely decent women, but those were an endangered species.
Regardless, she continued to remain behind Berengar, standing at ease, and unless Ida spoke to her, she would continue analyzing her every expression, word, and deed for the slightest hint of less-than-benign intentions.

[Rivienland]

Herzogin Alvina von Raycbucht.
I was nursing my lemonade, still a bit miffed by the Imperials, but really... not much anymore. The lemonade let me things see in perspective a bit, of a mother concerned for her son doing stupid things and actually not having the prior knowledge, if I was not mistaken in my gossip.
Regardless, I looked forward to speaking with Aurelia later, she and her were friends to the point of me even having a few dresses for her - my not-so-secret passion!
So, when a good-looking man, who I think I recognized as Prince Philippe, he introduced himself as that as well, so bully for me, came to me and 'bothered' me about my dress and how spectacular it looked, I could not help but blush and smile.
"Thank you, Your Royal Highness, that is very nice of You.", I said and bowed my head lightly in gratitude. "I am Alvina, the Herzogin of Raycbucht. It's a great pleasure to meet You, Prince Philippe." I let a beat pass. "Care to join me for a lemonade?"

Rena, Prinzessin von Wißenthen.
I rose as well and shook my head.
"No, I'll lead.", I said and took a few deep breaths of the fresh evening air, "You'll be... well, I believe, if we were men, I'd call you my wingman, but..." I took another deep breath. "Spirits above and below, I must look pathetic!"
I giggled.
"Thank you, Maria.", I said to her, smiled, took another breath, "No matter how this ends, know, that Schloss Reiherbucht will always gladly have you." I took another breath. "Then onto the breach, right?"

Prince Philippe
“Uh, yes. A lemonade would be quite refreshing after that last dance,” the Prince responded. He moved closer to the table next to the Herzogin and grabbed a glass of lemonade. As he stood next to the well-dressed woman, he surveyed the ballroom. The ball was in full swing and was becoming quite the party. Philippe was sure many of his siblings would be jealous that they were not there to also participate in the festivities. Perhaps, the Prince thought, he should travel more and see the world. After all, once married he would most likely be tied to his home and family.

Letting a few moments pass as the Prince took a sip of lemonade, he asked, “So, how are you enjoying the Prince’s Ball, Your Grace? Dancing the night away?”

Princess Maria
The Princess giggled with Rena when she did, but paused for a moment when she shared her words of gratitude. While Maria thought she was just being nice and helping, she wondered if perhaps this night she might have made a new friend. She barely had a few friends back in Rivienland so it would be a delight to have someone to talk to, even if they were oceans away.

Maria responded, “Well, men might have wingmen, but we have sisters. Yes,” the Princess nodding in response, “let us ride into battle.”

Moving back into the ballroom, the party was in full swing. Taking a brief moment to find her brother, Maria spotted him, barely, across the room. Was he talking to a girl? Maria was not surprised, as many of her siblings were still single, but, nonetheless, Maria was curious. Still, she refocused on the task ahead and stayed close to Rena.

[Folaisia]

Vin, Prinz von Dorch.
"Radiant as the Aurora, got it.", I said with a grin, "Would be a new one for me, too, so let's see it!" I then sighed. "As for the ideas... mostly historical dramas, actually. My personal favourite was a bit about Goedele Silex, that's a pirate from Nouvelle-Dunkerque, who died in 1726, when her ship, the Goéland, fought against a pair of Teressian frigates. She is said to have fought like a Lioness and I wanted have the movie depict not only the battle itself, but also the inner ramifications and processes of her hunters."

Ruairi gave off a nod and a cool smile at the Prince's remark about the movie and his ideas.

"Nice. I've heard about Goedele Silex," Ruairi reckoned, "She's well known in Folaisia, alongside Elias Eric MacAuslan, Vincent Taylor and Peigi MacBeathag, the most famous pirates and corsairs. On top on that, I remember she had alliances and rivalries with Elias and Peigi. It's real interesting material. Try taking a look at that sometime whenever you come across it when you do your research. And I wish you good luck on your film.

"Also, not only you should watch Radiant as the Aurora, but also Poisoned Souls, the one I've mentioned to you prior. It's coming out soon in Folaisian theatres, but I'll see if I can acquire one of the first copies from the distribution company for you. Once it's done, of course."

Poisoned Souls is a different title for A Healthy Verdict