The Winter Ball (IC - FULL)

by **Astares Amauricanum** » Wed Apr 22, 2020 12:42 pm

Regis and Shiho Blachkor
"Thank you Miss, says also Regis with a nod and a smile to the maid. So, Miladies, continues the Prince as he turns to Esperanta and Allison, I've asked about signature dishes from your home country and domain, but what about alcoholic beverages and spirits?"

Adrean and Anna
"Homura I meant, my tongue slipped. Sorry about that Princess, replies Anna with a smile to Gisella. And speaking of watching out for you and your fellow Islanders, we will of course gladly do it.
-Indeed, continues her husband. You know, at the beginning, word was coming out of diplomatic circles that your other allies were not too pleased with us taking over the Islas Malditas. One such ally being the Sultanate. But when they came over to the Empire for a state visit last february, we settled it, and agreed to work together to maintain the peace together in the area." Finishes Adrean with a smile.

by **Kyrenaia** » Wed Apr 22, 2020 12:59 pm

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
I smiled.
"Indeed, that'd be perfect.", I said with a nod, "We see each other so rarely, because our duties keep up apart, but I want to see you more often..." And I had the feeling, that Marcella felt the same. "And... one of these days, I want to show you Seabhcóir, where I was born." I smiled at a memory. "And the Inn, where I bettered up my pocket money - maybe they'll allow me to don their uniform again!"
I smiled at that.

Khana Amina bint-Karim.
I nodded.
"Sounds all quite fun.", I said and then added: "Though, I must admit, these hot springs sound quite tempting already... a Hammam only helps you so much, when you have to read reports in the Warm Room." I sighed, a bit wistful, I'll admit. "So, I might come over, when I find a week or two free. Marla, too."

by **New Visayan Islands** » Wed Apr 22, 2020 8:51 pm

Allison Sanchez
Royal Palace

"You will find no shortage of palm-based spirits in any of the successor states to the antebellum Philippines," Allison said, "but some of the most iconic spirits have an ancestor in tubâ, namely bahalina and kinutil.
"Tubâ is an alcoholic beverage derived from the sap of various palm trees that dates back to precolonial Philippine societies; during the Spanish era, it spread to Guam, the Marianas, and Mexico through the Manila Galleons. Bahalina is the same, mixed with extracts of dried mangrove bark and allowed to ferment for over a year; you could consume the same mixture after six months, in which case it's called bahal. Kinutil is the same tubâ mixed with raw egg and/or homemade chocolate; it's commonly referred to as the Visayan version of eggnog, especially when mixed with condensed milk. There are also two Visayan spirits that date back to the precolonial era, intus and kabarawan, but the traditional methods to create the two drinks were lost to time during the same Spanish era that saw tubâ reach as far as Mexico; people have been attempting to recreate the drinks since early 2008, shortly after the 20th anniversary of Visayan Independence." She shook her head; the closest anyone had to recreating kabarawan was in September 2018, by Brewers Asiatic.

by **Cartoonia** » Wed Apr 22, 2020 9:13 pm

“Excellent. Looking forward to it” Jimmy replies. He turns to his wife. “Shall we dance again?”

Rachel of course takes up on his offer and dances to another waltz again. After the waltz, they spotted a young prince with white hair.

“The prince over there” Rachel says to Jimmy, referring to the white haired prince. “He’s from the Mervarian royalty isn’t he?”

“Yes, that’s right” Jimmy replies. “I believe he is Prince Pandareos III. I have heard of his name in passing”. He recalls the nation that established an embassy in their country and in return established one over there. He should give an introduction to the prince. They go up to him and bows in respect.

“Your highness” Jimmy says. “I hope I am not intruding. I am Supreme Leader Jimmy Kudo of Cartoonia. A pleasure to make your aquatints”.

by **New Edom** » Wed Apr 22, 2020 10:00 pm

Cassadian

''Yes, I am, also I find the way we have met to be nothing short of a miracle, you can say. And as to what you said about that issue, it is unfortunate so, if ''ironic'' as you said, but security protocols dictate everything, especially one's surrounding environment and movements if one's figure of such high-rank, be it Ambassadors, senior Crown-Government officials, or My person. As such rigid security measures have been devised and put in place for the reason of safety. Whether it is for the sake of My Person and senior figures in government or the security institutions. Which while unfortunate in your view, is well-justified. The reason being, we have had, the Abolitionist Army, over these last fifty years; kidnap for ransom, take hostage or assassinate government, military or law-enforcement officials, bomb Crown-Government buildings and even plotting attempts on many of the lives of my Family, which thankfully the Royal Guard has made sure the kind of conspiracies cannot be hidden, by taking precautions I simply cannot list in their entirety.''

Mara nodded. “I can understand that. It just becomes a problem when your government is in someone else’s country and your officials clash with the policies of that country. I mean…” Mara had an expressive face, and she was clearly thinking. “It’s like if you have an embassy, you know, and it’s like this little island of Cassadia...you are really relying on your host country to protect you. Unless it’s some basket place case, where there’s no law and order, then they need to respect that, ya? I mean, I know you know that, I know that, but maybe some of your officials didn’t get that or whatever...”

''I would also like to apologize from my heart, for what my Kingdom's embassy security did on the streets of your Capital, out of all places! Extremely unbecoming and against all civilized behavior. The security company, which my government hired to provide security for the embassy of my country had a record that was impeccable until not. Because of a previous contract with the same company, Weber Security Concerns Group - was hired to provide security for one of our consulates in the Hesja Empire. Long story, made short; a jihadist group by name of Tahir Al-Hesja attempted to stage an attack on our consulate in Khoreb. Numbering around a battalion in strength, with a Kalashnikovs, RPGs and several mortars, attempted a hostile takeover of my nation's consulate with the intent to take in the consulate personnel hostage for ransom or for their typical beheading execution videos. The company that provided the small security detail for the embassy in comparison, numbered only seven men and only had at their disposal a machine gun and six assault rifles. But miraculously, against all odds, managed to ward off the attack, long-enough for all the consulate staff to be safely evacuated.''

Mara folded her arms under her breasts, and regarded her thoughtfully for a moment “Well, Empress Relena, I’ve got to say that I appreciate your apology, but I’m going to come back at you with that. I mean, I got told that when our ministers and civil servants were chit-chatting about how to get that conference going, your people were pretty darn stubborn. We are a proud people. How do you think we should react when basically we get told by yours that we are not considered competent enough to provide security for your diplomats? I mean, you came here, with minimal security, right, according to what this country demands, and you’re doing fine, I’m doing fine. Maybe they’re a wee bit overprotective when it comes to your diplomacy?”

''My government thought that giving this contract to Weber Security Concerns Group, would not cause problems, as we have come to know their people quite well over the last ten years. But as a result of what happened, things turned out the other way.''

“These things will happen. We’re talking now. Gosh you’re awfully pretty! Is that hereditary?” Mara said with a sudden change of mood.

''Excuse me as well, Also it is a pleasure to meet you, Your Highness. To your surprise I've also brought myself an escort, over there, by our two wonderful hosts, is the man heading my Royal Cabinet and Crown-Government and also my cavalier for the night - Royal Prime-Secretary Volodymyr Zelenski, whom in the past, used to be my History tutor when I was little. A sweet, nice, pleasant man of good character in my humble opinion - very cordial as well, if a little reserved.''

“How nice,” said Prince Enoch. “I am looking forward to meeting Prince Zelenski. He sounds like a fine man.”

''I feel fine Your Majesty, though you could say I can be doing better...Say, how is your husband doing? I hope that he is doing better and is in good hands. It saddens me beyond belief how this affliction of your husband, mimics that in which my father was in. The difference being, he suffered a massive heart attack, that struck him without warning as he did not have any history of heart problems to speak of...and it happened all so fast that by the time doctors laid their hands on him at the operating table, it was already too late.'' Said Relena with great sadness in her voice, the mere mention of her father causing her eyes to fill with watery tears.

“I’m so sorry to hear that,” said Mara, looking sad in response. “That’s so hard. My own father was assassinated, you know, by Anarchists, along with Prince Enoch’s father. This life is so full of tragedy. It made me almost crazy for a while. But it increased my faith greatly, you know. And so I pray for my husband’s recovery daily, and prayers are said in many churches. He is a very strong man though, my husband, with a strong character, and I believe it will carry him through.”

by **Kuronami** » Thu Apr 23, 2020 9:51 am

Gisella

"Aha that makes sense. Though there are those who would say Duchess Tamura was the incarnate of Homura herself, but I don't think so, I think she just had more inclinations of Homura in her spirit. Oh I can imagine it probably ruffled some of the feathers of some of our other friends, I suppose sis would know more about that. But she wouldn't do it if she didn't think it was a wise idea. Sis can be impulsive, foolish, dreamy, spacey but she's still one of the smartest people I know!"

Esperanta

"Spirits of various mixes are pretty common in Mazomba. Since integrating into Kuronami we found way to make fruity tropical drinks out of some of the mainland's offering like the wines of Eylstadt or sake or soju. My favorite; use some Clarines whisky, mix it with some fresh fruit, add a few shots of tequila you have your self a nice beach drink."

Marcella

She stepped away from Aurelia just a moment when she had to sneeze. "ooh begging your pardon there." Strange, somebody must be talking about her.... Returning to Aurelia after that she continued, "Oooh I'd love to see that! You've seen so much of Aurora now I need to see more of your home and where you were born."

by **Astares Amauricanum** » Thu Apr 23, 2020 11:42 am

Gisella

"Aha that makes sense. Though there are those who would say Duchess Tamura was the incarnate of Homura herself, but I don't think so, I think she just had more inclinations of Homura in her spirit. Oh I can imagine it probably ruffled some of the feathers of some of our other friends, I suppose sis would know more about that. But she wouldn't do it if she didn't think it was a wise idea. Sis can be impulsive, foolish, dreamy, spacey but she's still one of the smartest people I know!"

Esperanta

"Spirits of various mixes are pretty common in Mazomba. Since integrating into Kuronami we found way to make fruity tropical drinks out of some of the mainland's offering like the wines of Eylstadt or sake or soju. My favorite; use some Clarines whisky, mix it with some fresh fruit, add a few shots of tequila you have your self a nice beach drink."

Allison Sanchez
Royal Palace

"You will find no shortage of palm-based spirits in any of the successor states to the antebellum Philippines," Allison said, "but some of the most iconic spirits have an ancestor in tubâ, namely bahalina and kinutil.
"Tubâ is an alcoholic beverage derived from the sap of various palm trees that dates back to precolonial Philippine societies; during the Spanish era, it spread to Guam, the Marianas, and Mexico through the Manila Galleons. Bahalina is the same, mixed with extracts of dried mangrove bark and allowed to ferment for over a year; you could consume the same mixture after six months, in which case it's called bahal. Kinutil is the same tubâ mixed with raw egg and/or homemade chocolate; it's commonly referred to as the Visayan version of eggnog, especially when mixed with condensed milk. There are also two Visayan spirits that date back to the precolonial era, intus and kabarawan, but the traditional methods to create the two drinks were lost to time during the same Spanish era that saw tubâ reach as far as Mexico; people have been attempting to recreate the drinks since early 2008, shortly after the 20th anniversary of Visayan Independence." She shook her head; the closest anyone had to recreating kabarawan was in September 2018, by Brewers Asiatic.

Regis and Shiho Blachkor
"Thank you Miladies for these detailed explanations, replies Shiho with a smile and a bow of the head. I know we'll try some of these when we get back home.
-Indeed, continues the Prince. Concerning the Empire, we also have various spirits, but the more famous ones are by far the Tennessee Whiskey, and the Oklhahoma Apple Cider. Although the Whiskey dates back to the 13th century, it is by far stronger than the cider. Other than that, we have various tyoes of beers, flavoured or not. If I were to pick one, it would be the Blackberry Beer from Virginia."

Adrean and Anna Blachkor
"Indeed, replies Adrean. Prince Damir said that "The Duchess is sitting on a little powder-keg." He couldn't have been more right. But since things are smoothing up in the UIS and its vicinity, all is good for now. But Princess, just to tell you, don't be afraid if you hear reports of increased activities in the Malditas in the future. Let's just say that since the underground is a treasure trove, we'll have to take measures to protect it." finishes the Emperor with a smile.

by **Kyrenaia** » Thu Apr 23, 2020 12:04 pm

Kuronami wrote:[...]
Marcella

She stepped away from Aurelia just a moment when she had to sneeze. "ooh begging your pardon there." Strange, somebody must be talking about her.... Returning to Aurelia after that she continued, "Oooh I'd love to see that! You've seen so much of Aurora now I need to see more of your home and where you were born."

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
I smiled at Marcella after she came back from sneezing, it was no problem.
When she expressed her enthusiasm, I could not help but smile so wide, it might as well have split my face in half.
I was happy: "I would love to show you, too. I know someone, who can lend you a horse, too, if you don't want to ride with me, and we can take Gisella along, too, if you want..." I had a slightly sobering thought, though, a moment later: "We won't get out of having dinner with at least one Elder, though, but they're usually very nice. Oh, I'm already planning a traveling itinerary!"
The last was accompanied by a huge smile.

by **The Republic Of Cassadia** » Thu Apr 23, 2020 3:55 pm

New Edom

Mara nodded. “I can understand that. It just becomes a problem when your government is in someone else’s country and your officials clash with the policies of that country. I mean…” Mara had an expressive face, and she was clearly thinking. “It’s like if you have an embassy, you know, and it’s like this little island of Cassadia...you are really relying on your host country to protect you. Unless it’s some basket place case, where there’s no law and order, then they need to respect that, ya? I mean, I know you know that, I know that, but maybe some of your officials didn’t get that or whatever...”

Relena took in what the Monarch of New Edom explained her reasoning of the issue at hand, carefully listening to the words of Mara.

''It is not that, my diplomats have issues with any of your countries policies, neither my Crown-Government nor my Ambassadors have, have had or will have - on that we can both agree. It is just that the regulations concerning their security are...you might say, heavy-handed, paranoid..is that the accurate way to describe it? Anyways, the only non-issue for my government, is that it just does not want to delegate the matter of security for its high-ranking and senior officials and G-men, and obviously this includes Ambassadors into the equation as well - to entities other than our own. This entails a well-armed human security and a discreet armored escort, and sure - from time to time, these armed bodyguard details might drive aggressively and pass under red traffic lights, but that is, in my opinion, a justifiable price to pay for the security of people, whom often times, carry on their person sensitive information; be it in documents or in hardrives with said sensitive content.'' The Empress of Cassadia explained, with a bright expression on her face, sporting a slight smile.

''Queen Mara, let me tell you a story about a foreign minister of a far,far-away nation, by the name of Syria; This accident is a true story, of an incident that happened around fourteen years ago. Now the most important thing about the motherland of the foreign minister, was that it had a belligerent rivalry with another neighboring nation. With which, since its founding has had found itself at war several times over. Now outside these conflicts, these two countries - Syria and the other nation in question, were waging war, even when they were not!'' The Empress of Cassadia mentioned this wondrous retelling of a distant, if recent by historical standards, past international incident.

''Rather than with tanks, missiles, planes and bombs - it was nevertheless a war, but by the ways of treachery, rather than a war in the conventional sense, with spies of both nations shadowing each other's great bureaucrats with the intention of obtaining intelligence on their enemies' confidential government practices, be it in their military dealings and projects - so that they could obtain an edge over the other...Now the part about this Syrian foreign minister in question, was visiting a foreign country that had, while cordial relations with his own, had friendlier ones with the rival nation, which to top it all of, had a dedicated presence of intelligence people which Syria's rival re-assigned to shadow the foreign minister so that they could get their hands on anything useful about his government's recent or ongoing activities he could have carried - which they were shockingly successful in their attempt! The foreign minister, deciding not to stay in his country's embassy ''un-luxurious'' housing. He settled for a posh hotel suite. And while out on, maybe out for a stroll or for dinner, all the while leaving a briefcase-and-laptop-load of documents, internal communiques and technical papers - several agents of his nation's enemy country, disguised as a part of the hotel's room service managed to gain access to his room and, since the only security detail attached to the foreign minister was his driver and the security escort provided by the host country. The agents of said enemy nation freely and in no hurry, went through the intimate inner workings of the foreign ministry's country, unearthing from among them technical documents, and other information which contained detailed and specific information about a project of military nature, with the aid of another state, allied to the his nation. All of this in question was a program to manufacture a working nuclear weapon, that would have greatly compensated for the technological inferiority of the foreign minister's nation and would have put it on an equal footing with their rival....But as a result of partially his negligent incompetence and the lack of security detail and protocol, the only thing Syria got out of it was its dream project getting bombed to ruinous heap, in less than a week of the this information being stolen.'' Now it was the turn of Relena to cross her arms under her bosom, taking a short breath of relief, as she got this compressed mini-novelization of this interesting event, now-long past out of the way.

''I hope you can understand why my Crown-Government can be so insistent on retaining completely the responsibility for handling the matter of security for its most important, by themselves alone. Like the Syrian Arab Republic, we have many enemies who would like to undermine our nation, to weaken us down to such a state that will enable them to mold our nation's politics, values and government in a way that suits them best and have us down and out, as the expression goes. Now you know why these ''little islands of Cassadia'' are so important to us; Our embassy personnel are not really allowed to venture outside the grounds of the mission, except when on leave or on work assignment talks with your government representatives, or on cultural events. That is why we have structured our embassy throughout the world in such a way, to provide all the necessary quality of life conditions to be as complete as possible so as to minimize the interaction of the diplomatic mission personnel with any outside persons or entities other than the moments when the job requires it.

Mara folded her arms under her breasts, and regarded her thoughtfully for a moment “Well, Empress Relena, I’ve got to say that I appreciate your apology, but I’m going to come back at you with that. I mean, I got told that when our ministers and civil servants were chit-chatting about how to get that conference going, your people were pretty darn stubborn. We are a proud people. How do you think we should react when basically we get told by yours that we are not considered competent enough to provide security for your diplomats? I mean, you came here, with minimal security, right, according to what this country demands, and you’re doing fine, I’m doing fine. Maybe they’re a wee bit overprotective when it comes to your diplomacy?”

Relena chuckled to the things Mara told her when describing the type of characters that the Edomites had to deal with.'' Queen Mara, you may be right, I took great risk when coming to attend this festivity, as for your ''pretty darn stubborn'' comment; We Cassadians are known for our staple mulishness, a sort of ''we do it our way or it is the highway'' stereotype, though that like all depictions are not entirely true. It is just that when it comes to the security for such important figures be it ministers, or important officials - Ambassadors and the like. We strive to be left to handle this matter entirely on our own, with measures that we believe are the most appropriate.''

''And besides...who said I only came with ''minimum security.'' Said slightly mischievously and with a friendly grin, as she shifted a little to pull up partially her skirt, to reveal a bare nubile leg, running up the smooth milk-white skin, just above the knee, to reveal a mesh holster that held a Walther PPK/S pistol.

It was to last only a couple of moments, before the now-little undignified Empress, let her skirt drop back down to her legs. As she inclined forwards slightly with a sideways hand on the periphery of her lips, whispering loud enough for both Edomites to hear.''Also Zelenski has a compact sub-machinegun under his suit jacket, but don't tell our two hostesses that.'' Winked Relena to Mara and Enoch.

''What can I say. Other than the Lord, we Cassadians, love to drink, and to be owners of weapons, as that stems from our inner-nature as a warrior race.'' Declared proudly the Empress to them, if with a little hubris.

“These things will happen. We’re talking now. Gosh you’re awfully pretty! Is that hereditary?” Mara said with a sudden change of mood.

''Indeed it..'' Relena, almost choked. Feeling a little shocked by the kind of compliment the Queen of New Edom uttered about her...appearance? Feeling her cheeks flush almost tomato red, Relena lowered down her face in shame, trying to have the fascinator hide at least part of her face, as she tried to compose herself.

''Oh my...Queen Mara, you are so kind to me! You remind me of my lady-in-waiting and my servants as they compliment me the same way you do. And while I am deeply grateful, I would like to correct you in that I do not consider myself to be so, since the responsibilities of governing have at times put the kind of stresses that have stretched my body an my psyche to my limit. Just a week ago, when one of my servants was grooming my hair, she found a couple full streaks of my hair that had turned white.'' Lamented Relena to the Queen.

''And while I may not consider myself ''pretty'', may I say you look splendid yourself in this...Hussar cavalry? uniform, however I think a normal court dress would have suited you even better still.''

''As for your question about my family. I certainly believe so, my mother herself was quite the looker when she was alive, that was one of the reasons my father married her, besides pure love, believe it or not. Usually most Monarchs do not marry for that.'' Relena remarked, her voice becoming softer and personal, as she opened her square-patterned, blue snake-leather handbag, to produce a photo which she handed to Mara to take. The picture in question looking more like mini-portrait in the aesthetic style of a colorful church stained glass window, displaying the image of a queenly woman with a long wavy raven hair; the late Empress Marianne Von Peacecraft.

''My two older sisters Cornelia and Euphemia are definitely more beautiful than me, since they have larger, uhhh...assets aaand, are more wider in the hips, rounder bum too. My younger sister Nunnally as well, as she is, as they say in English...how is the word? petite, I think. This is a positive quality, aside the other fact that her breasts are as large as mine, even though I am much taller than her, as is the same with you Queen Mara. I would claim yours are even bigger.

''Queen Mara, don't you think we have gone a little too scandalous with our conversation on this particular topic. And besides, to talk about such womanly matters in front of a man, oh how unseemly in my opinion.'' Complained the now flustered and reddened Cassadian Monarch.'' Warned Relena with a concerned face as she gave Enoch a glance, not unlike someone gravely annoyed.

“How nice,” said Prince Enoch. “I am looking forward to meeting Prince Zelenski. He sounds like a fine man.”

Relena put a gloved hand on her mouth, before waving it off aside with a rich laugh.'' Oh my what a scandal, but you should not worry yourselves, Prince Enoch, its nothing. Actually my Prime Secretary is of a commoner stock, not a noble or a Prince. But I will nevertheless warn you that you should be careful when misnaming titles as some our aristocrats can be very defensive of their dignity. Which for such a stain on their honor, in their view, may challenge you to a pistol duel!....As for Zelenski, if you'd like to, we can go over to him and let me introduce you. I indirectly and politely ordered him to be in the company of our two great hosts as a punishment, as he like Your Person, Prince Enoch, misnamed their titles.''

“I’m so sorry to hear that,” said Mara, looking sad in response. “That’s so hard. My own father was assassinated, you know, by Anarchists, along with Prince Enoch’s father. This life is so full of tragedy. It made me almost crazy for a while. But it increased my faith greatly, you know. And so I pray for my husband’s recovery daily, and prayers are said in many churches. He is a very strong man though, my husband, with a strong character, and I believe it will carry him through.”

''I am sure he will come out of this affliction soon enough. Ever since my parents passed away, it has been hard for me, with only my siblings and my Faith to comfort me. When an entire nation and government rests upon the expectations of you to rule and demonstrate leadership on this and that, when you have to face down an Insurgency that has been going on for a generation now, in a province, soaked in the blood, psyches and limbs of soldiers. It sometimes overwhelms you, but I have found the comfort in Christ, His love along with that of my siblings, to have greatly lightened the burden in my heart that I am required to carry, by the calling of my Crown.'' A couple of tears streaked down Relena's cheeks which she promptly wiped off.

by **Rivienland** » Thu Apr 23, 2020 6:06 pm

"Ah, I see. Quite an interesting process, but, as you said, surely one that spills less blood." Waiving over a server carrying a tray of champagne, he grabbed a glass and took a sip. Pausing for a moment to think, Willy continued, "Now, as you said the highest Domain leaders were offered up as candidates for the throne, does that mean your husband sought to be Emperor?"

by **New Visayan Islands** » Fri Apr 24, 2020 12:28 am

Allison Sanchez
Royal Palace

"Well, there is a company that claims it's close to recreating kabarawan, one of the two precolonial spirits lost to the centuries under Spain," Allison replied. "It's a form of mead derived from the aromatic tree bark of a laurel known locally by the same name; replace honey with sugarcane juice boiled until it is reduced to a thick syrup and you'll get intus." What she didn't know was that Brewers Asiatic wouldn't release their version of recreated intus until August 15th; the company hoped that releasing their creation on Confederation Day would give them more time to age it to perfection.

by **Lux Pulchrae** » Fri Apr 24, 2020 3:41 am

Kyrenaia wrote:Prince Damir ibn-Razia.
I grinned and Yasmin said: "That sounds familiar..."
I then explained: "You see, on our guest list are two Ilkhans, eight Khans, twenty-two Princes and Princesses and a whole lot of other people, who we both know and who we wouldn't want to miss on that day - plus, their significant others, in some cases their kids and so on... plus, of course, the Sultana. Plus Handmaidens in many cases." I shrugged. "The feast's going to be large."
"Oh, yes.", Yasmin agreed with a smile.

"A feast, fit for a king, as they say. Or rather a prince." he said as he finished his glass. He looked away for a moment in thought, then looked back to Damir "You know, after all this time I still don't know the different divisions of the Sultanate. These ilkhans and khanates, would they be like in my country where we have the kingdom as a whole, then it's separated into twenty-one provinces, themselves separated into counties and smaller baronies. There are also the small free territories, that answer directly to my office. Those are mostly held by the old and wealthy families, old types. Mostly Roman types, so they claim to be."

"I've heard of those. And they are real?" Cecile asked Cleone on the side.

"Mmm...there's Massimo, you know, Alessandre's family. There's Scipii or Scipio, but they're in d'Umbra under Montagna so they aren't really a free territory. We'll talk more in a bit, I just asked the Prince something."

by **Kuronami** » Fri Apr 24, 2020 10:42 am

Esperanta

"Blackberry beer, that sounds delightful. Think you could send me some? I'd be willing to pay upfront even."

Gisella

"Thanks for the heads up. I do tend to hear things through the grapevine which you can probably guess means it's not always the most reliable. Though sometimes sis does it on purpose to mess with me." She giggled again, how crazy these sisters must seem to other eyes but oh well, AHSCA seldom bothered others and was seldom bother by others now a days.

Marcella

"Horse riding huh? Well okay but only if you promise to ride with me. You know me, I know nothing about horses compared to you, I'm certain. You could teach me more than a few things about them."

Amaterasu

"Wonderful. You'll enjoy it, and it does prove to be relaxing. I shall look forward to seeing you there as well, assuming I get the time to get up. Well it is a good excuse to see my dear mother since she decided to remain up there instead of in the city. She's a lovely woman though."

"A good system is right considering it survived a stress test. I suppose it's the benefit of the modern world. Anyway, yes he did indeed. I think he would have done fine but at the same time can't help but be glad he's still Lord of Clarines. His younger brother is a fine young man but ready for that role, I don't think so, just yet. Actually I thought he'd be here but seems he couldn't make it out. Oh well."

(ooc: the rules are there for a reason if you wanted to smuggle in a gun you should have asked but I'm letting it slide here.)

Bianca continued about her patrol on the floor when her earpiece buzzed from one of her agents positioned on one of the upper balconies. "Copy, this is Guard Bee." Odd code name indeed, it was Finé's idea, you know Bianca, bees, drones that protect the queen? Well never mind, anyway, the gal on the other end continued "We just spotted one of the guests flash a little Walther PPK/S. Weapon is still holstered but regardless we got eyes on Dalian and we got our eyes on our special guest." Dalian, Finé's code name.

"Understood. Standby." If she was going to do something she would have done it now and wouldn't flash it in a crowded room. Over with the guests from New Edom, either nation might have reason to want to harm the Empress in the name of crazed fundamentalism but right now no threat seemed likely, this was less of a danger and more of someone disregarding instructions outlined in the letter of invitation. Her steely stare fell down on Empress Relena then glanced over at Empress Finé "Feel at ease but keep on post, Amazons, I'm still on the floor here as are Units 3 and 4. Bianca out."

"Copy, out."

Bianca could very well walk up to her and demand she hand over her weapon but instead she was going to let it slide rather than start a commotion considering it's not a lowly diplomat but a sovereign head of state. It still was ill advised of the Empress to bring a weapon to a party where it was demanded weapons and security would be left behind. Well it is what it is for now. In the meantime the dance number ended which meant Bianca siddled up close to her. "A fine dance it was, Milady."

"Something's up, isn't it?" Fine inquired

"It's nothing serious, just relax and let me worry about it."

"Very well. Izetta, maybe we should round up a few guests who wanted the tour."

"Sounds like a fine idea. But first, maybe a little something sweet?"

"All right, the desert table first." She giggled

"Dancing makes a girl hungry, don'tcha think?" The two ladies went along over to the dessert table.

(ooc: though you were with Mervay, Mervay's posting has been a bit scattered lately so I'll just take you up here)

Coming across the good Emperor again, Fine greeted him "Milord, enjoying the party? I saw you there on the dance floor, you were great with your partner here. I must admit I hadn't taken you for a fine dancer but yet you are."

by **Kyrenaia** » Fri Apr 24, 2020 11:34 am

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
I smiled and nodded.
"I'd be happy to.", I told her, sure, that I could and would teach her, "And I am sure, that Fánaí would love to carry you, too." I then added, whispering to her: "Don't forget to both pack warm and to pack a swimsuit!"
Of course, we would have a little group with us, but then again, traveling alone was always a bad idea in the Free Lands, less because of other people and all the more because of the wildlife.

Khana Amina bint-Karim.
"I don't doubt it.", I said and nodded, "And sometimes, I can understand people, who prefer the more rural lifestyle compared to large cities - by Kyrenaian Standards, Oea with its 5.2 million inhabitants is quite small, especially compared to Utica with its metropolitan region of 50 million, but the countryside does have its advantages in either case." I smiled. "It's quieter, it's slower for some... I can understand it, but, outside of the occasional vacation, I am a city girl."

Prince Damir ibn-Razia.
I thought for a moment.
"It's relatively similar with us.", I said and then began: "Well, at the top is the Sultanate. Beneath it are the five Ilkhanates of Utica, Kyrene, Megido, Fenchu and Sarepta, as well as the Territories immediate to the Sultanate. You might be aware, that Kyrenaia once was a large Colonial Power, that is, where the Territories came from and while many were lost over the course of the Decolonization Wars, quite a few remained, most prominently Jalid.
Beneath the Ilkhanates are the territories immediate to the Ilkhanate, as well as the Khanates. For example, under the rule of the Ilkhanate of Utice are the Khanates of Khond, Jazirat Alshahwa, Caralis, Jabal, Sheliak and Tanin, each with its own Khan." I let a beat pass, both to catch my breath and to give Cleone a moment to realize, that he heard of at least one of these Khanates already tonight. "It gets dicey with the subdivision of the Khanates. In Tanin and Sheliak, for example, all of the country is under the rulership of the Khan. In Las, that is a subdivision of the Ilkhanate of Megido, there are multiple Beys, or in their case, Beyehas, I should say, who rule certain parts of the land, one of them being Beyeha Nesrin bint-Yasmin, the currently reigning Beyeha of Manzaldari. And then there are the Khanates, where a mayor or a provost are elected by the people and rule a part of the territory as a sort-of middleman between the Khan or Bey and the people, that is especially the case with cities and, sometimes, rural communities, for example Bistalnakil in the Khanate of Tanin."
I shrugged.
"The Gods alone know, how it works, but apparently, it does.", I said with a smile, "Of course, these of territories all have their own administrations and orders of precedence in that administrations, but it does not get too confusing after a while."
"There's a reason why I needed Damir to help me out.", Yasmin said with a smile.

by **Krainin** » Fri Apr 24, 2020 11:57 am

Annie looks over and sees Adalrich getting flustered. "Oh, ok. Thanks?" Annie looks down as she blushed a little.

"Again, sorry for the awkwardness. I don't usually go to public functions myself. I normally go with my wife, but she's currently busy with things back at home." Katie let's a beat pass before speaking again. "So, what country did you say you too were from?"

by **Astares Amauricanum** » Fri Apr 24, 2020 12:38 pm

Regis and Shiho Blachkor
"Of course we will send you some Miss Putino, replies Regis with a smile. Although please accept it as a gift, I would feel offended if you paid for it."
With that said, he takes out his smartphone and starts typing
"How do two crates, or 100 bottles, sound?"

Meanwhile, Shiho speaks with Allison.
"So, Miss Sanchez, I didn't ask about it until now because the night is still young, but I'm curious as to what ar the main industries of your nation, and if they would be open to foreign investment?"
As a business woman, Shiho was always interested in establishing business relations, and with a foreign Secretary of Finance in front of her, she was sure to have a good ear to speak to.

Adrean and Anna Blachkor
"Yeah, we've seen that your sister likes to tease you, replies Anna with a warm smile. Although nor me or my husband have brothers or sisters, we've seen enough of them to know that this usually shows a strong bond. Although if I may ask without being indiscreet, does she teases you more about everyday subjects or more important matters?"

by **Rivienland** » Fri Apr 24, 2020 7:19 pm

"I can understand that feeling of relief of not being elected to the throne. While I am honored to be heir and to one day rule Rivienland, being a monarch is never an easy path. It is a role you can rarely walk away from. But, you mentioned your husband's brother. Do both of you come from big families?"

by **Polish Prussian Commonwealth** » Fri Apr 24, 2020 8:23 pm

Berengar
"Right..." I replied, nervously leading her. "One step at a time."
As soon as the music began, Ida would find that my fears were well-founded.
...well, sort of.
Extremely choppy, nervous, and...even jerky movements at a few times. When I did know what I was doing(which was, thankfully, most of the time), I managed to do pretty well-but I had to depend on her to take the lead more than once.
No broken toes, thankfully, from either of us.
At least, I hoped not.

When it was over, I would turn back to Ida, blushing furiously. "...Like I said...erm, I've been out of practice, especially with regards to the waltz...sorry. I didn't step on your toes, did I?"

Erika
I nodded. This particular nobleman seemed pretty decent thus far. Honest, rustic, and hard-working, much like the Sczlatcha I knew, if less martially-inclined. He seemed to have a faint wisp o' the ivory tower-enough to give the impression of intelligence, but low enough that he didn't seem like a shut-in academic.

I recalled one of his earlier statements...
"I see." I replied. "Earlier, you mentioned that you had a low chance of being Emperor. I remember that Kuronami has an elective monarchy, much like Poland-Lithuania. How does it operate?"

by **New Visayan Islands** » Sat Apr 25, 2020 12:34 am

Allison Sanchez
Royal Palace

"Foodstuff from the rural areas; most farmland in the islands of the Confederation can be found inland, and some of the coastal areas are well known for their fisheries," Allison replied. "Roxas City in Panay, for example, is the place to go for all your seafood needs, and the mangoes of Guimaras island in the same province are, for want of a better word, heavenly.
"You also have mining and heavy industry to consider, although there are considerable barriers to hurdle before one participates in either." She didn't exaggerate; a review of mining practices in 1993 led to the shutdown of the Marcopper mines in Marinduque, with remediation beginning in early 1994. The mines themselves would not be reopened until 2008; by then a local company took over operations and made an actually decent profit from the old mines.
"Then you have a very large skilled labor force. With the adoption of automation in various places in the Confederation, the skilled labor pool became even deeper, and while one cannot, in their lifetime, completely shake off the legacy of the antebellum," here she referred to the hardships of antebellum Philippines and the Age of the Overseas Contract Worker, "we do make it worth everyone's time.
"The Confederation is generally open to foreign investment, yet we also make it a point to level the playing field for everyone involved. Free markets, after all, are the lifeblood of a free people," Allison finished.

by **Lux Pulchrae** » Sat Apr 25, 2020 2:41 am

"That is true, only God truly knows how it works. You could imagine the hell it was in the Middle Ages. You marry some far away noblewoman and now apart from your land, you have your wife's family's land to lord over, or something like that. Even I fear keeping track. Ah, graziadio, no more of that, if a family doesn't wish to govern a town or a county anymore, either someone is appointed or its people decide. Almost forgot, the autonomous provinces of Amaglione and Alemania, the Germanic province. Amaglione is governed by my brother, the Grand Duke who you already know. That position is held by the heir apparent of the current monarch. So if I'm gone, Marcello moves up, or if I have a son, God willing, and he comes of age while I'm still on the throne, I'll name him heir and he'll be Grand Duke." Cecile lightly but fiercely squeezed Cleone's hand "Or a daughter, which I would be just as glad as having." When Damir mentioned the Ilkhanate of Fenchu, he was reminded of an old friend, and an even older friend. "Enough about government, feel like I'm boring everyone here, including me. So Prince Damir, how are Lady Dschamilla and the Grand Vizier, or the former Grand Vizier, last I had heard."

by **Cartoonia** » Sat Apr 25, 2020 10:26 am

Kuronami wrote:(ooc: though you were with Mervay, Mervay's posting has been a bit scattered lately so I'll just take you up here)

Coming across the good Emperor again, Fine greeted him "Milord, enjoying the party? I saw you there on the dance floor, you were great with your partner here. I must admit I hadn't taken you for a fine dancer but yet you are."

Jimmy and Rachel return the greeting to Fine. “Oh the party is simply wonderful, as for the dance, we have our fair share of state and private balls”.

“And the people of Cartoonia do love to get together for an outdoor jig or for elegant balls” Rachel adds. “That is the culture of Cartoonia in a nutshell right there”.

by **The Republic Of Cassadia** » Sat Apr 25, 2020 11:18 am

Kuronami

The event so far was uneventful to say the least. Maybe that was the impression for the second most powerful person in the Holy Kingdom, Volodymyr Zelenski, whose office while coming with many material benefits and luxuries to it, appropriate for one of the most powerful and prestigious positions within the Crown-Government - was nevertheless the kind of profession that would not allow for a day off, as like the position of the Monarch; a title and office which commanded absolute obedience, was possible only in a system that allowed for the powers of State to rest squarely on the shoulders of one woman. Though that did not mean that the Empress of Cassadia could rule a nation alone, create laws, enforce them and besides that, to lead the Armed Forces alone.

Power in Cassadia, while was concentrated in the hands of the ''one'' at the top. In actuality while the core of this while true, the fact of the matter in reality was little different. With the top, the Royal Cabinet being organized along a vertical structure, with the Prime-Secretary at the top, with only the Monarch being able to overpower any decisions he took, though that was a rare occasion to be sure since all the matters of governance were always deliberated in coordination with the Monarch, and when they were not, any agreed resolutions had to be referred to the Empress, for final review and approval...or a disapproval to which any motion would have been either returned for revision until it was acceptable in the eyes of the Monarch, or it was simply dropped altogether.

Vodymyr Zelenski while regretting the position and company in which his Empress had put him in. Was no discomforting enough to be truly forcing him to look for social escape routes to detach himself from the company of the two hostesses of this Ball - all that they were aside, something that he very much shared with Relena, that it did not even need to be implied.

The Royal Prime-Secretary, retaining a radiant, cute friendly demeanor, decided to strike up a conversation with the two women that were center of attention.

''Excuse my person, if I may intrude on your ongoing conversations Your Majesty, Your Highness, but is there any special occasion for which this ''Winter Ball'' is held for. Besides it being a very official festivity.'' Zelenski asked the two ladies curiously, with a charming, rough and deep voice he had become infamous for in his Holy Kingdom.

''You should not wrong yourselves Miladies. I find this festivity very much in my taste, as I am sure my Empress does so too - also I especially like your wine, pray tell Your Majesty, what year is your matured wine from, and from which vineyard is it from...A curious fact, Her Imperial Majesty's mother, the Graceful Empress Marianne, hailed from a low-rank aristocratic family that owns a vineyard and breeds horses fit to compete in the most prestigious derbies.'' Said reverently Zelenski, especially at the mention of the name of the woman that gave birth to Relena. ''The family of Her Majesty's mother has quite the story you know. Empress Marianne's family are of French descent whose ancestors fled their home country of France, after the Mob took power in their blood soaked revolution. And since, while of low aristocratic rank, being mere humble Barons with a rather modest estate, nevertheless fled all the way to my country, as they feared for their very safety because of their support of their King and for refusing to recognize the power of the Mob.'' Commented the Number 2 Crown-Government official. Out of general curiosity, he had ordered a servant to fetch him this kind of drink - and that, one who was around the late Empress enough, with time learned to grow affinity for the particular alcoholic, as Marianne was infamous with that she was a woman who could down wine as if it was water.

''Your Majesty, if I may. Could you indulge My humble Person to tell me more about how your country is like, as I like? As I and my Empress have only been in your nation for less than a day.''

by **Kuronami** » Sat Apr 25, 2020 1:32 pm

Marcella

"Pack warm and bring a swimsuit, I got it." She had the swimsuit part down but the warm clothes was something she'd need to take care of. Maybe a good time to stop off somewhere while she was here in Kuronami, bound to be plenty of cold weather clothing she could pick out.

Amaterasu

"I understand, I'm the same. Born and bred in the city of Sonomi even if most of it was cloistered in the palace gates. That reminds me...When I have the chance I must show you my family's photo album. Hehe not of us, don't worry but it's of the city of Sonomi and it's evolution. Essentially since the camera came into being my family had chronicled the evolution of it through the ages. See it from a crowded city of paper houses and dirt roads to the booming modern metropolis it is today. Modern in the sense Caloris is modern. There's still a touch of old in it that many find charming, including yours truly."

Esperanta

"100 crates, goodness that's a lot, but I'll just have to have a little party of my own. I really hadn't formally celebrated with my fellow Mazombans on becoming the newly appointed GG of the islands so this sounds like a good chance to do so and having enough refreshments on hand is what I need. So to make my ramblings to a point, I would be delighted to accept the offer."

Gisella

"Depends on her mood sometimes but i know when she's joking and when she's serious on matters of the state so it's easy enough to see those for what those are. On everyday subjects I do remember when we were little though her telling me seaweed came from a Seaweed monster that was roaming around for little girls with pink hair and whose names started with G."

"I have two younger sisters myself both of whom are teenagers, my husband has his younger brother whom I mentioned, as well as two more siblings, twin brother and sister. They are much younger still young kids. Cute but michvicious kids."

"That's right. The monarchy isn't so much as traditional Hereditary Monarchy in that it's not always the first born son or daughter who becomes the next Monarch upon death or abdication. It can of course and had for many years until The late Emperor Hermaan who died without naming an heir. In that instance we almost become an elective monarchy. Almost. It's still a lifetime position and it's elected through The Assembly not directly from the People. When the Monarch dies every Domain has the right to put up a candidate for consideration. Usually this will fall to whoever the highest noble family, namely whoever is head of their Domains, such as I to pick. Can be themselves or a younger sibling or someone else they are close to. Each of us presents a case before The Assembly which is what happened with our last Emperor. I was considered of course but it ultimately became to Lady Ortfine. Now you'll be wondering what's to stop outright civil war should this happen again and I suppose nothing really. Anytime when you consider who does or doesn't get the power But it hasn't happened yet. I would hope and feel the stability of one's country comes before one's own pride. Can't say I wasn't disappointed but at the same time, I have business to do in Clarines, I have people there I must take care of. There's no time to sulk or be envious of Her Majesty now. Kuronami came together to survive as a symbiotic relationship, to fend off invasion centuries ago, it would be mighty ironic to see it fall to internal squabbling. Not to say we haven't had our issues among each other, but that's why we have a central Monarch, to try to be that one unifying figure to get behind and that mediator of all things. I mentioned The Assembly, we have a legislative organ as well as does every Domain."

"I see, a rather festive nation. Nothing wrong with that. I'm glad you're enjoying yourselves here, it's been a tough year for many of us so I felt this ball and having many guests from around the world would do best to brighten spirits and make comrades. I was hoping to gather a few of those who wanted to take a tour and move along, but no pressure if you want to continue to stay and mingle among the others."

"Enjoying the wine? That's not from my family's collection but it is from a winery from this domain. From the Clavell Winery in Hamlet which is about 150 kilometers to our South. Dated 1911 I believe." Bianca nodded. Honestly Bianca sometimes filled the role of valet and protector just because it was her job to be on top of every little detail.

The winter ball dates back to 1899 when the Crown held it as a way to first welcome the cold winter. It was a sort of celebration because there had been a long summer drought that year which hurt many farmers badly across the country. The snow came and suddenly it felt like things were returning to normal. And it was indeed because it proved to be a snowy winter and wet spring ahead of us. So every year since then we've had this ball. The reasons are always different every year, sometimes it's just to welcome winter, sometimes it's to celebrate the end of a hardship like drought. This year has been tough for Kuronami and it's friends. There were some tensions with issues of national sovereignty and annexation and self determination and some of Kuronami's own allies were caught up in the mix. It did nearly reach a boiling point but it seemed tensions cooled enough for now. And now some of Kuronami's friends have been in the grips of a terrible pandemic. That's why this year I asked for a broader attendance of foreign nations to join us, friend or not. As last year, my brother was named the Duke we did not have this ball because his coronation took priority for the budget.

Anyway the country itself, that's quite a broad topic, maybe best if I answer more specific questions, questions you may have that you can't simply look up in any world atlas. To be short we're a large monarchy as you gathered, we're fairly diverse because of our history of two ethnic groups and two kingdoms five centuries ago. To our East we have the Japanese of Amaterasu and the Ethnic Gang Tribes of Hang-Gang. To our South we have the Mazomba Islands which has an indigenous people. Here in Eylstadt and Clarines we're mostly Germanic Anglo-Saxon. Planning on seeing more of the country? There's plenty to see if you can make the time."

by **New Edom** » Sat Apr 25, 2020 1:43 pm

Cassadia

''And besides...who said I only came with ''minimum security.'' Said slightly mischievously and with a friendly grin, as she shifted a little to pull up partially her skirt, to reveal a bare nubile leg, running up the smooth milk-white skin, just above the knee, to reveal a mesh holster that held a Walther PPK/S pistol.

It was to last only a couple of moments, before the now-little undignified Empress, let her skirt drop back down to her legs. As she inclined forwards slightly with a sideways hand on the periphery of her lips, whispering loud enough for both Edomites to hear.''Also Zelenski has a compact submachine gun under his suit jacket, but don't tell our two hostesses that.'' Winked Relena to Mara and Enoch.

''What can I say. Other than the Lord, we Cassadians, love to drink, and to be owners of weapons, as that stems from our inner-nature as a warrior race.'' Declared proudly the Empress to them, if with a little hubris.

Mara stared at her, and shook her head. “You know, I think I like you, Empress Relena. But liking you will not really help the summit you wanted. You flashing me that weapon tells me that I need to be doubtful that I can trust you. I mean, here, again, there were clear rules of engagement, where dignitaries were told to trust in the host country’s security, and you have not only demonstrated that you have contempt for that, but you made it personal, by doing it your own self. I can respect that, I guess, but we’re not going to explore closer relations as long as it is so clear that your government, and you, don’t respect any other nation’s laws and policies. All that stuff about security risks, well, your minister was not being wise to have such papers not locked up in a safe or something.”

She then moved on to the personal compliments and conversations, since Relena had made it very clear that her position would not change on security issues.

''Indeed it..'' Relena, almost choked. Feeling a little shocked by the kind of compliment the Queen of New Edom uttered about her...appearance? Feeling her cheeks flush almost tomato red, Relena lowered down her face in shame, trying to have the fascinator hide at least part of her face, as she tried to compose herself.

''Oh my...Queen Mara, you are so kind to me! You remind me of my lady-in-waiting and my servants as they compliment me the same way you do. And while I am deeply grateful, I would like to correct you in that I do not consider myself to be so, since the responsibilities of governing have at times put the kind of stresses that have stretched my body an my psyche to my limit. Just a week ago, when one of my servants was grooming my hair, she found a couple full streaks of my hair that had turned white.'' Lamented Relena to the Queen.

''And while I may not consider myself ''pretty'', may I say you look splendid yourself in this...Hussar cavalry? uniform, however I think a normal court dress would have suited you even better still.''

“It’s modeled after the dress uniform of the 14th Hussars, which is one of the regiments of which I’m colonel-in-chief though,” she said with a laugh, “I’m no soldier, but I’m very honoured by the position. As for court dress, I try to avoid it. In fact I prefer to go without clothing altogether, but this is an international gala and I don’t want to freak anyone out.”

''As for your question about my family. I certainly believe so, my mother herself was quite the looker when she was alive, that was one of the reasons my father married her, besides pure love, believe it or not. Usually most Monarchs do not marry for that.'' Relena remarked, her voice becoming softer and personal, as she opened her square-patterned, blue snake-leather handbag, to produce a photo which she handed to Mara to take. The picture in question looking more like mini-portrait in the aesthetic style of a colorful church stained glass window, displaying the image of a queenly woman with a long wavy raven hair; the late Empress Marianne Von Peacecraft.

''My two older sisters Cornelia and Euphemia are definitely more beautiful than me, since they have larger, uhhh...[i]assets aaand, are more wider in the hips, rounder bum too. My younger sister Nunnally as well, as she is, as they say in English...how is the word? petite, I think. This is a positive quality, aside the other fact that her breasts are as large as mine, even though I am much taller than her, as is the same with you Queen Mara. I would claim yours are even bigger.[/i]

“Did you just compliment my bust?” said Mara with another laugh. “My oh my. Well, they got bigger, because I’ve had two children, don’t you know, so that’s probably why.”

''Queen Mara, don't you think we have gone a little too scandalous with our conversation on this particular topic. And besides, to talk about such womanly matters in front of a man, oh how unseemly in my opinion.'' Complained the now flustered and reddened Cassadian Monarch.'' Warned Relena with a concerned face as she gave Enoch a glance, not unlike someone gravely annoyed.

“As long as it is not really salacious, I don’t have an issue with it,” replied Mara. “But then you’re not married, of course, so you’re probably right.”

Speaking of the matter of the afflictions upon both their families, Mara listened sympathetically to Relena’s reply.

''I am sure he will come out of this affliction soon enough. Ever since my parents passed away, it has been hard for me, with only my siblings and my Faith to comfort me. When an entire nation and government rests upon the expectations of you to rule and demonstrate leadership on this and that, when you have to face down an Insurgency that has been going on for a generation now, in a province, soaked in the blood, psyches and limbs of soldiers. It sometimes overwhelms you, but I have found the comfort in Christ, His love along with that of my siblings, to have greatly lightened the burden in my heart that I am required to carry, by the calling of my Crown.'' A couple of tears streaked down Relena's cheeks which she promptly wiped off.

“Please be assured, Empress, that you have my deepest sympathy. Grief is great, but we are not without a God who understands our sorrow and whose mercies are eternal.” Mara said, her expression gentle. She paused a moment, putting a hand on her arm kindly, and said, “If you want my advice, you, and your father, worked hard to establish that your nation is fierce and powerful. Now, I recommend working to encourage others to know that you would be a good ally and trading partner. That will have to involve building trusting relationships. I am sure you can tell me another story about how risky that would be. But as I said, New Edom will not, as long as your government is uncooperative with our own security, agree to any relationship with your country other than strictest neutrality, and we will also probably regard your government with some wariness as a nation that has a penchant for breaking agreements.”

"Other than that," Mara continued, "I wish you the very best..."

by **Astares Amauricanum** » Sat Apr 25, 2020 3:25 pm

"Foodstuff from the rural areas; most farmland in the islands of the Confederation can be found inland, and some of the coastal areas are well known for their fisheries," Allison replied. "Roxas City in Panay, for example, is the place to go for all your seafood needs, and the mangoes of Guimaras island in the same province are, for want of a better word, heavenly.
"You also have mining and heavy industry to consider, although there are considerable barriers to hurdle before one participates in either." She didn't exaggerate; a review of mining practices in 1993 led to the shutdown of the Marcopper mines in Marinduque, with remediation beginning in early 1994. The mines themselves would not be reopened until 2008; by then a local company took over operations and made an actually decent profit from the old mines.
"Then you have a very large skilled labor force. With the adoption of automation in various places in the Confederation, the skilled labor pool became even deeper, and while one cannot, in their lifetime, completely shake off the legacy of the antebellum," here she referred to the hardships of antebellum Philippines and the Age of the Overseas Contract Worker, "we do make it worth everyone's time.
"The Confederation is generally open to foreign investment, yet we also make it a point to level the playing field for everyone involved. Free markets, after all, are the lifeblood of a free people," Allison finished.

Esperanta

"100 crates, goodness that's a lot, but I'll just have to have a little party of my own. I really hadn't formally celebrated with my fellow Mazombans on becoming the newly appointed GG of the islands so this sounds like a good chance to do so and having enough refreshments on hand is what I need. So to make my ramblings to a point, I would be delighted to accept the offer."

Gisella

"Depends on her mood sometimes but i know when she's joking and when she's serious on matters of the state so it's easy enough to see those for what those are. On everyday subjects I do remember when we were little though her telling me seaweed came from a Seaweed monster that was roaming around for little girls with pink hair and whose names started with G."

Shiho Blachkor
"Thank you for this detailed explanation Miss Sanchez, replies Shiho with a warm smile. I understand that you want to make everyone on an equal foot, in the Empire we usually restrict foreign investment to a minimal amount, due to strong protectionism policies. And when it comes to certain key sectors, like arms manufacturing or energy, the state is the ony owner. Is it the same in the New Visayan Islands?"

Regis Blachkor
"100 bottles, not crated Miss Putino, answers Regis to clear Esperanta's misunderstanding. Although with 100 bottles, you can still throw a party. But fora hundred crates, which are 5000 bottles, that would cost you a bit.
So, do I keep the two crates, or would you like more?"

Adrean and Anna Blachkor
"That's quite a joke, replies Adrean as he and his wife laugh heartily to Gisella's recalling her sister joking with her when they were kids. I remember that some of my friends, who are now part of my Guard, had me running all afound school in search of the key to Wisdom, which I would need to be an Emperor.
-And you ended up nearly lost in the basement! Adds his wife with a laugh. Anyway Princess, continues the Empress as she turns back towards Gisella, I'm curious, but as a child, did you went to school normally with other kids, or did you had only private tutors as a Princess?"

The Winter Ball (IC - FULL)

Who is online