The final coronation of Empress Zuri

[Paracambi]

It is with the utmost delight that you are invited to the final of the coronations of Empress Zuri. It is tradition within the Empire of Paracambi that the Empress is coronated in each provience and as well as claiming the title of Empress she receives a local based title. The final coronation will take place on the island of Castries. The island is often known as the "Smoking Island" due to its volcanic past. The island is also the stronghold of Rastafarianism within the Empire with 75% of the islands population being members of the faith. We look forward to welcoming you to meet our new Emperor.

Blessings of the Loa

Emperor Benson of Paracambi


It had been a whirlwind few weeks for both Benson and his new wife Zuri. There had been something at the back of Bensons mind the moment he laid eyes on her and having consulted with some of his spiritual advisers he had been reliably informed that the feeling was infact the Loa known as Erzulie telling him that she had created Zuri just for him. The Loa of love couldn't be wrong and so just a few days after meeting in his wife's native Kermah the pair were married. There had been no time for media notices and the like, Benson just wanted to please the Loa and do their bidding. It had annoyed his family and even some of the Empire. His son Crown Prince Marcus had been upset that his father hadn't even introduced him to his step-mother before the marriage and became even more annoyed when he found out she was two years younger than himself. Princess Sophia had likewise been angry. There had long been a tradition in Paracambi that Emperors were followers of the Vodou faith and their Empresses Rastafarians however Benson had declared the nation the homeland of the Vodou faith and as such was no determined that they should have a Vodou Empress too. She had considered opposing the coronation briefly but then realised it was just likely to make the family break apart and for how much she was annoyed at her father now she suspected it would pass.

Zuri meanwhile had been loving the change in her life. It had obviously been a gamble to accept the proposal but life back in Kermah would have been one where she would have ended up working on the land, all be it having helped her family improve their standard of farming having been studying Agricultural Sciences at University. It would be a course she would continue in Paracambi and her marriage would ensure her family would be taken care of for life. Benson had been very kind to her and it was clear he seemed to be in love with her even if she was not totally in love with him but for now she was confident that in time that would come. She though had barely been able to have her feet touch the ground.

The round of six coronations had begun on Monday. First they'd gone to the ancestoral homelands of Benson's family, the province of Alua, the capital. There she had been paraded through the streets of Aluhampton in a small float of a ship before climbing the steps to the old city gatehouse known as the Mistral Gate, there at the top she was crowned by her new husband. As the new Queen of Alua she had been driven to Roseau, there in Rosenberg the new Empress had been taken by horse drawn cart down the beach front where she was crowned on the pier as the Duchess of Rosenberg. That night a huge beach party had been thrown in her honour. She had really enjoyed that evening and the locals had made their new Duchess feel so welcome. In the province of Amalie they had a Temple in the forest where in a clearing where they could hear monkeys chattering she had become the Princess of Amalie. The mainland provinces had been completed by Wednesday evening and an overnight flight to Alemba had meant she arrived at sunrise to find the island out in force. Benson may have been from Alua but he had been born on Alemba and spent a lot of his youth there and so the locals considered him an adopted son, now they would extend that to their new Empress and their Vodou Priestess had taken great delight at naming Zuri the Duchess of Basseton. Thursday saw her flown to Gustavia an island famed for its metal mines. There they had presented her with a fine collar of gold and silver before naming her the Duchess of Gold. Zuri and Benson were getting rather exhausted by the time they'd reached the final stop of Castries. The Emperor and Empress had been taken to the islands Royal Palace, a place where it had been a long time since a royal had actually stayed. Meanwhile Crown Prince Marcus waited at the islands airfield for the guests arriving via the mainland and quite likely a smaller plane than they were usually used to.

[DaveIronside]

King David of East Moreland had been rather busy of late and when the invitation had landed ideally could have done without attending but the last time he'd meet with Emperor Benson it had not been on the best of terms despite the meeting having a mutually agreeable ending. This was now a chance to repair relationships and so the King had made the decision that he would attend this one in person along with his wife Stasya. While it was likely that most other guests would fly in from the Paracambian mainland David had other ideas. He had first flown to the Lodjain island of Iskor where his wife had been born and of where he was now the Baron of Iskor Inlet. They had spent a few days with Stasya's family and now Llewellyn would spend a few days with his Lodjain grand-parents while Matilda had agreed that Rhiannon could spend some time there too. The King and Queen had flown to one of the Bakkermayan islands so David could give a gift at one of the Temples there. They had flown into Castries the night before and enjoyed a romantic evening strolling on the beach following a nice meal at a seafront restaurant. Stasya was doing her best to get back in David's good books, not that he could ever keep her out of them for long. She had effectively purchased an overseas piece of land and title for the Ironside family without telling him and he had not been happy. Now she had all but dug herself out the hole telling David they should try for a second child despite knowing herself she was on the contraceptive implant, no way was she getting her bikini beach body bloated again any time soon. The morning of the coronation they had taken a car to the airport to meet Marcus. Stasya had meet him before when she had been a Lady in Waiting and made the introduction to the King. "Crown-Prince its lovely to meet you" David shook the mans hand. "I'm looking forward to meeting your father and his new wife. How has the round of coronations gone?"

[Kermah]

King Tebogo Opeyemi of the Mombaka tribe was also the head of the Gorotoland state that made up part of the Confederation. Until just a few days ago Zuri had been one of his subjects and it was at the tribes Uhmlang Festival that the Emperor had meet his new wife. While the King was obviously going to come, he considered Benson a friend, he had also brought his youngest wife Ańuli who was keen to experience a foreign land, this was her first visit abroad having missed out on the families trip to East Moreland. While the King was responsible for 1/3 of the Confederation it was the Consul, Dr. Adebola Kamau, who would represent the whole of the Confederation. Northern Albion was just a hop, skip and jump from Castries and the trio didn't take that long to arrive compared perhaps to the Morelanders. The trio were looking forward to the event and Tebogo was pleased to see King David, he waited for him to greet the Crown-Prince then stepped in, "Crown-Prince Marcus, your father told me a great deal about you." He smiled shaking his hand before introducing first his wife then the Consul.

Adebola was a large man with thick glasses and he gave a swift bow, "Your Highness thank you for the invitation. I look forward to the festivities." He stepped back and turned to King David. "Your Majesties, may I thank you for the agreement you made with King Tebogo, its a great benefit of our nation. I do hope your Honeybadgers are thriving, I know their Kermah cousins would send their greetings." He chuckled.

[Daitō]

   This was going to be an important milestone, not only for the Paracambian royal family, but for Eijirō as well. Officially, this was his first trip abroad since the restoration, a chance to bolster his reputation and that of Daitō as a whole, though privately, it was the first time that, since becoming a father, he and Mayumi were leaving their children with someone else. His uncle, Etsuji, Prince Nashimoto-no-Miya, had offered to keep an eye on them while he was away, yet even as the aircraft soared over the horizon and into view of the island, his mind turned to thoughts of home. Between this and leaving the Empire at a pivotal moment in its history, it was a lot to think about as the aircraft made its way, first to an airbase in Hachijo Prefecture, Tsukishima, and then from there directly to the Island of Castries, with the aircraft being refueled half-way just as a precaution. That was a procedure he had seen numerous times, almost always from the cockpit of a J-7O while he was serving in the Navy, so it was a little disconcerting watching the aircraft approached its tanker from its lounge near the back.

   On the note of the aircraft he was aboard, "Suzaku One"—a callsign rather than a specific aircraft—was an Aizawa-Shinoda AS-500, modified, of course, to suit the needs of the Imperial Family and any guests which it may take aboard. Compared to its supersonic sibling, which was, by its very nature, the more famous of the two, this one was designed for long haul flights, ones where there was no real rush to arrive as soon as possible, and as a result, it was often likened to a flying palace. With a color-scheme reflecting both the national colors of the Empire and the standard of the Emperor, its presence was almost always accompanied with much fanfare. And of course, owing to its military roots, being derived from the L-8 Hato, it was particularly well-suited to short runways such as that found on Castries. As he watched from the window as the aircraft touched down, accompanied by the screech of the brakes, he knew it was showtime.

   Stepping out of the aircraft and into the sun, Eijirō, joined by Mayumi and a few other guests, mostly members of his staff, took a moment to look over the area before descending. He wore a uniform derived from that of the Imperial Guard, upon which sat rank insignia marking him as Daigensui-Rikugun-Taishō—Grand Marshal of the Imperial Daitōjin Armed Forces—and medals which told a story, one of battles won and accolades earned. Most importantly, of course, was the Collar of the Supreme Order of the Chrysanthemum, but also the Grand Cordons of the Pauwlonia Flowers, Rising Sun, and Golden Kite, alongside a number of other medal-ribbons. At his side was a sword—tachi forged in the 13th century by a great swordsmith—and presented to Emperor Keiyo on the advent of the Restoration. The symbolism was not lost on him, as it drew a direct connection between his reign and that of his forebear. Nonetheless, stepping forwards, he was quick to greet the Crown Prince, all the while everyone else disembarked.
   "Your Highness," he said as he shook the Crown Prince's hand. "First of all, I must say it is a pleasure to make your acquaintance." He continued, glancing around the airport for a moment and spotting a few other guests, some of whom he had, of course, already met. "More importantly, though, I would like to express my best wishes to your father and the new Empress." In truth, he was a little surprised that the Paracambian monarch had decided to buck tradition like this, but being a complete outsider, it wasn't really his place to judge.

[Chistopol]

King Kārlis IV suspected that this would be his final overseas visit. With it being a purely symbolic visit there had been no objections from First MInister Darijus Laine on him handling the occasion. Paracambi were a valued partner of the Kingdom with S.U.N. and so the King had been very keen to come and pay his respects. He had meet Benson once and liked the man and was happy that the Emperor had seemingly found happiness. He had lost his own first wife during the war against the Soviets and then his second wife had died in 2009. He had never considered remarrying and suspected he was far too old now to find love but he admired Benson for his new love. Karlis was beginning to feel his age now and even though he'd carried a walking stick for the last ten years he had slowly become more and more reliant on it and now he was using two. There had been suggestions that he use a wheelchair but he was determined to keep as active as he possibly could. While his legs may be getting weak though he was still able to potter around in his "shed" making furniture, he just now needed someone to do the bending for him. Sometimes that job fell to his grand-daughter, Lady Viktorias who had served as Royal Matron, a symbolic role of senior female royal, since 2009. She may have been just 14 then but since reaching the age of 21 she had embraced her role and as the most senior female blood relative of King Karlis took on important functions for the family. Today her task was not organising a ball or holding nails for her grand-father, it was to ensure he was ok. As the long flights came to an end Karlis asked one of the stewards to bring him his pair of black polished wood and silver topped canes. He pushed himself up waving away Viktorias offer of help and took an age to get himself down the aircraft steps before clinking his way over to the Crown Prince and the growing group of royals.  "Good morning Prince Marcus" He began, "Its wonderful to be here." he could already feel the heat helping his arthritis. "I hope your well and I look forward to having a chat once we get the beach party going? It will be a beach party won't it, I didn't have my grand-daughter pack my Speedos for nothing did I?" he laughed as Viktorias rolled her eyes before introducing herself. Karlis turned to King David and his wife slipping into Rus he greeted Stasya and then David. "One day I will make it a mission to beat a Morelander to an event" He greeted the pair and then turned to Sabrina and then Eijirō before looking for a seat.

[Cass]

The Emperors whirlwind marriage was a surprise to Atalanta and most of Mundus if the reports were anything to go by. The Paracambians were one of the founder members of S.U.N. and that would be enough of a reason for Cassiopeia to attend the coronation, although six coronations seemed a bit extreme. Atalanta was looking forward to the event and she had no surprise that the event was already being well attended. To see all these monarchs was pleasing and she was happy to see Karlis up and about. Like those before her she went down the line greeting each before standing close to Karlis and Viktorias.

[RobertAgira]

It would appear the S.U.N Heads of State would be gathering for the first time since the group had been formed. There had thankfully been little for the group to do beyond their own little trade arrangements and the development of the Zaptica fighter. King Đurađ had brought with him Queen Jožica who had quiet likely taken the mistake of opting to wear ceremonial attire of the Order of Krešimira which consisted of tight leggings designed more for hunting in the colder climates of Drenovia. The look was completed with a green shirt and a black leather gillet that went down to her knees. She would normally have carried a quiver of arrows and a bow but that had been left behind as being impractical. While his first wife, Terezija, was the political bride it was probably best to describe Jožica as his religious one because of her connections to the various orders that existed within the Druantian faith.

As the aircraft touched down the couple held hands and made their way to greet the others.

[Achkaerin]

This had been planned into Emperor Peter's diary and had been something that he'd been looking forward to but due to his present incapacity it was now a trip that Crown Princess Serenity was undertaking, and as much as she enjoyed international trips and meeting new people, the knowledge that she was currently 'it' weighed heavy on her, she was so used to being left in charge with the safety net of her Dad being able to hop a flight home if things got problematic. The upside was that she'd got to try out the family's new 'yacht' if one could call it that an Insignia 'ekranoyacht' taking on the call sign of Blue Vixen, the given name to one of the Royal family transport vehicles, under normal circumstances a royal transport was typically piloted by one of a handful of purposely trained pilots but this one Serenity had gone and decided she wanted to be able to do it herself, this being the principle reason why this was the ships first time out. If truth were told that delay was actually paying off right now as it had become a family trip a simple flight down to Rokkenjima's QKNB in Dartfordia to visit Achkaerinese officers who were 'hotdesking' there while the navy began to wrap up it's Alucard operation that was a leftover from the Lodjan crisis, then with Blue Vixen waiting it had been a nice seafaring trip since, she had been getting plenty of briefings along the way. She was accompanied for this coronation by her two daughters the six year old Princess Astrid and eight year old Princess Lisa, the two girls had spent a lot of the trip playing games, using their imaginations, drawing, doing their homework with mum's help and watching the television when their mother permitted it, naturally the latter with the subtitles on due to Astrid's deafness which was also the reason why Val Kirby was there.

Logistics to do with the arrival meant that they'd gotten ready a little than would have otherwise been the case, Serenity was about ninety nine percent ready, this was down to her needing to land the thing, she was wearing an elegant red one shoulder dress but still had her trainers on as she put down her mobile phone on the dining table, no change in her father's condition. "Girls are watching Octonauts." Val said walking through she wore a simple violet dress
"Let me guess." Serenity said "The Octonauts and the honeybadger?"
"Yep." Val said "It's their animal phase."
"I thought it was because I took them to see the Adventures of Stoffel film." Serenity said, her phone buzzed "Ok that's me being told it's time to get this thing on the ground."

Landing the craft was a little weird because first it had to be flown out of the water, that was the easy part, getting altitude to get over the cliffs was straightforward, landing gear down also simple as flick of a switch, actually putting it down on the ground? Not easy, Serenity wouldn't win any style points for the landing but she kept it where it was meant to be, all in all not bad for a first go outside of training. Serenity moved out of the cockpit, changed her trainers for more appropriate footwear and joined her girls Lisa wearing a cream coloured dress and Astrid in a green one. there was one final member of the delegation so to speak, sitting with a pristine red vest on a white terrier called Sparky, this was Astrid's assistance dog. The party disembarked, Serenity keeping her hands on her daughters shoulders to navigate them across the open space, Val right next to them, when they got to the waiting pantheon of Royals, nobility and distinguished guests she made a beeline for Crown Prince Marcus, she shook his hand "A pleasure to be here to celebrate with you, my daughters Astrid and Lisa and this is Val she interprets for Astrid and the dog is Sparky." Serenity said, Val was already signing everything for Astrid. Serenity's hand rubbed a silver charm bracelet around her wrist, a birthday present from her Dad a few years earlier he'd have enjoyed this. With the introductions made the Achkaerinese walked down the line, greeting each of the other guests in turn.

[Paracambi]

Marcus was slightly taken back by just how many had arrived, he'd also not expected East Moreland after the issues between his father and King David over the Cobble Field issue. The Prince though was keen to be as friendly as possible and shook everyone's hand with a smile, especially after the Governor of Elysium's attempt at the local dialect. "My father is sure to be delighted so many of you turned up. Old friends and new." He held a hand up and with just two fingers motioned to a blue jacketed military type stood some way off. The man obediently tucked his pace stick under his left arm and snapped a salute with the others, Marcus returned it with a graceful nod of his head. "Sergeant I'd like you to begin helping our guests make their way to the ceremony please."

"Yes Your Highness." He took two small steps backwards, saluted and preformed a neat salute and strode off yelling at a group of similarly attired men who stood in front of a row of cars. The drivers extinguished cigarettes and scurried into their drivers seat. The cars had been used by the Imperial Family for a while and it was likely each of the guests had much grander vehicles back home but the Prince was hoping the quirky nature of the roof would be something the guests would enjoy. Castries after all was a beautiful island with lush green forests, sandy beaches and crystal clear blue waters. This time of year colour was still filling the forest and the drive would showcase much of the islands beauty.

First the Prince motioned for the car to stop in front of the East Morelanders. "The coronations have been good. The people have been celebrating, I think in some cases a little too much, they've been some sore heads as we've left each province but I think tonight the Imperial Family may even join in, the hectic travel can stop for a while. I know my father intends to take a few days off to recover." He helped Stasya into the car and waved them off. Next he deposited the Kermah delegation in their vehicle happy that Tebogo had come. He'd meet him twice now and always enjoyed his company. The Prince did his best to seem amused by Sabrina but in truth failed to see the funny side. He was a grown man with a step-mother he hardly knew who was younger than him, in truth it was rather embarassing but Marcus waved Sabrina off in her car. He turned as the next car arrived. "Thank you Emperor Eijirō and I am sure they'll be an oppurtunity for the two of you to talk later and you can pass them on yourself. I hope you enjoy your time here." He bowed as he waited for them to get settled and then drive away.

Marcus motioned for the next car to come further. Karlis and his grand-daughter couldn't be expected to wait as long as they had been and Marcus should have insisted that the old man go first. "Your Majesty I'm sure we can find some time to enjoy a fancy umbrella drink on the beach, but please for all that is Holy leave the Speedos." He smiled at the old mans humour and hoped he was half as cheerful when he reached that age. Perhaps it was the fact that these two nations were members of SUN that he felt more at ease or perhaps it was as he'd got into the swing of this now. Infact he spotted Queen Atalanta travelling on her own and having greeted her got her into the same vehicle as the Chistopolians, it would no doubt be a good image for those in the media to see the SUN monarchs arrive together. Sadly King Đurađ and his rather ill attired wife wouldn't fit with the other three and so had their own car.

As the Achkaerin delegation arrived Marcus thought now an appropriate moment to mention something, having greeted them all he took Serenity a little to one side. "While I know your children will be more than welcome I think I must warn you." He turned and checked the children were out of ear shot. "The ceremony will feature elements of both the Rastafarian and Vodou faiths. Just before the element of the ceremony where the new Empress is crowned a Hougon will make a sacrifice of a goat, it will be beheaded, I am not sure your children will want to see this. I would recommend perhaps a toilet break or something once the Rastafarian prayers end. I'll have a member of our Zangbeto put your party at the end of a row so you can, if you choose, make a discreet exit for that part of the ceremony. Just give him a nod and he'll take care of it." He hoped Serenity was not offended by the conversation and happily waved at the girls as their car pulled off.

Finally "Fulljoy di trip an hab ah gud day." Marcus shook the hand of the Heyran as they set off.

OOC - If anyone else wants to still join in assume you've arrived and been packed off.


The vehicles had deliberatly been spaced out and police motorbikes acted as outriders as they made the trip from the airport to the temple. The trip was along the coast road, sugar cane farms dominated the low lands and then the road peeled away through the forests, occasional flashes of colour could be seen in the trees. Sometimes it was a parrot or other colourful bird swooping across the road, others it was one of the brightly painted wooden homes that people who worked the forest lived in. The road snaked back to the coast and through the islands capital Mount Andrew. The city was nothing much more than a collection of 15,000 people in pretty white wooden homes. The streets were full though of people preparing long tables for a street party and only the main road was open. The more observant would have seen group gathering in green, red and gold wrapped flags heading up the hill towards the Temple where the ceremony would take place. A large cordon had been created around the Temple and its sacred tree clearing. Large video screens made ready to broadcast it to the waiting crowds. The guests were whisked inside the cordon and lead to the gardens of the temple. A shady tree canopy kept them out the intense sun and large pitchers of iced water, orange juice and pineapple juice sat waiting with slices of mango, melon and papaya for those wanting a snack. Before they could enjoy themselves to much though two large walking haystacks entered with bells being shaken. Behind them was Princess Sophia who quickly stepped past them. "Accept my apology. We are a little behind schedule" She blushed, "These are my fellow Zangbeto." She began to explain, "Each year every town, city, even villages elect Zangbeto, in the ancient days they were the Police, today though we are best described as a spiritual police. It is our duty to make sure rituals are conducted correctly, sacrifices done correctly, even to check in the markets that those selling animals for sacrifice are not cheating their customers. These two" she gestured to the two haystacks now dancing, throwing rum and singing, forgot to clense this place before you arrived and rather than waiting for me to warn you thought they'd just start." The two walked the perimeter somehow navigating their way around the guests and doing their best not to throw anything on them. Once satisfied they began to leave and Sophia ordered them back and whispered to them. The closest hay stack opened and a man in his early twenties stepped out, he was wearing just a pair of shorts and flip flops and looked most out of place. Sophia stood to one side. "As Zangbeto at ceremonies we are expected to wear outfits to scare off the evil spirits when on duty." The group could see the inside of the costume had a kind of rucksack strapping system and several metalic hoops to maintain its shape. "This is Pieter, he is one of ten Zangbeto for Castries."

The man stopped and suddenly conscious of his state of dress stood rigid and bowed. "Your Majesties, Highnesses, honoured guests." He dipped with each group he mentioned, "My apology but we had a ceremony to perform and sometimes we get a little to eager" He only now realised what he had been moving around, he had known people were there but thought they were just ground staff preparing his visibility reduced. "I hope we didn't worry you." He smiled at the two small Princesses from Achkaerin. "We take our sacred duty seriously and today is a very special day." He beamed as Sophia told him he could get on with his duties. Like a magician entering a magic box Pieter disappeared back into his haystack and with a jingle of bells was off again.

"You will see several of them during the day, next time they will not be in costume. They will be in their Agbada uniform." Having had a phone call from Marcus she used her phone to show the guests what that looked like making doubly sure Serenity saw it. She herself would be wearing hers but in yellow as a mark of her royal rank while the others wore purple. "We have half an hour before anything happens so please relax and enjoy the refreshments, safe in the knowledge the evil spirits have been chased away."


Zuri was in the Temple's lodge, a place reserved usually for visiting Hougon or Mambo. Today several servants busied themselves with final preparations. The Yellow robes with a small black stripe. The robe at the first coronation had been the reverse and at each subsequent one the yellow had become more dominant. She was nervous as it still seemed unreal knowing that another coronation would be needed each day, until today. In just a few hours the farm girl from Kermah would be an Empress, she was sure Disney would make a film about this perhaps. She had gotten to know Benson better each day and learned he was a kind caring man but also a man who could be ruthless. He had brushed aside his children's concerns with little worry regarding their marriage and while that helped Zuri feel loved it worried her that Benson seemed so laser focused once he had made a decision. She had been able to see all the cars pull up and was nervous about the day now that the guests had arrived. In just an hours time though she would be an Empress and be committed to a life time of helping her adopted nation.

[Lymm]

OOC- Imagine the White Witch has always been there

Rhiannon had read about the Vodou faith. In her mind it was a childish version of her own faith, crude and often vulger attempts to communicate with the Gods was in some ways offensive to her. She was though open minded enough to realise that at times new secrets of the Gods could be found in the strangest places. She would watch with interest how the Hougon and Mambo conducted things and make mental notes, perhaps there was a small chance she would return home with more to add to her Book of Shadows. She had hoped the King would have joined her but he had claimed that a budget needed to be prepared for some military procurement and as such had sent excuses. She had been disappointed at that but was determined to not let things be ruined. She had a few things she wanted to achieve while here and would set about them once things became less about the coronation. For now she marvelled at the idea of the Zambeto and while their costumes seemed too bizarre the idea of having people ensuring the faithful could follow their faith in good conscience that those supplying goods needed for rituals were not evil was a good thing. She laughed at the thought of a Lymmite Zangbeto as she savoured some fresh mango/

[Beatrice]

The Clysperi Pharaohs, Akasha and Seti, had elected to attend despite a bit of debate within the Assembly of Nomes on the value of the Kingdom attending the coronation in such a fashion. Many recalled the skepticism of Emperor Benson shown toward Clysperis, which Akasha answered with the steps taken since those statements in Clysperis, including moves to ingrain within the Kemetic faith that slavery was abhorred by the gods to the point slavers would meet a unique judgement in the afterlife, ratification of the MCUR and what the Pharaoh had taken pride in as a success, not a failure: funds which had been set aside for the Mundus Games bid which were dispersed to victims of slavery and an entire new stock of housing for the victims and survivors of slavery regardless of nationality represented by the housing facilities built to host foreign athletes. In addition there was also the Tytorian report, the source of which had been an outspoken critic of the Clysperi Kingdom and was as such without bias, which showed that her efforts, and those of the Kingdom, were genuine in stamping out servitude in all its forms and seeing that victims and their descendants received compensation from the Clysperi Kingdom.

Even with the progress that had been made the Pharaohs gravitated near the Achkaerinese, though she couldn't help but roll her eyes upon the sight of the Governor of Elysium. She nudged Serenity and whispered, "what angle do you think they're playing at?" while Seti took in the sights and sounds around him. He perhaps felt the most on edge, given who his father was and the land upon which he was born. It had taken great coaxing from Akasha to secure a "yes" that he would accompany her today, and whether it was true or not he could not shake the feeling that he was little more than a walking target for glares. Still, he hoped that his actions, such as converting to Contemporary Manism, playing a guiding hand in the many Clysperi programs to not only end servitude but see that its victims were looked after and compensated, and his work in ensuring that facilities designed for the Clysperi bid for the Mundus Games would be repurposed for their benefit as well, would speak more loudly than the sins of his father.

[paralipomena]

Brzdmstveli Ketevan herself had led the Mktvartvelo delegation. It was rare for a Mktvartvelo's head of state to attend such ceremonies in a foreign country. However, she was curious enough when she was informed about the invitation, and her presence may be not without merits from a diplomatic point of view, even if diplomacy between Mktvartvelo and the host country was not particularly vast in recent decades. She attended along Givi Shengelia, who spoke fruently the local language.

Ketevan easily recognized some well-known faces from the crowd, in particular one that brought her memories from the earlier months as Brzdmtsveli even if its results had not been too bright.

[Achkaerin]

The advantage of Sophia's and Pieter's presentation was that it attracted attention and being so engaging kept that attention, meaning that Lisa and Astrid, the latter of course   paying attention to where Val had positioned herself slightly behind and to the side of the Paracambian pair and from where she was signing, an interesting thing in itself especially to see the signs for words such as 'Zangbeto' and 'Agbada' words that as an Achkaerinese were not commonly used. What the benefit of such a presentation was though was it allowed Serenity the time to look around and run through the guest list - King David and Queen Stasya were no surprise, East Moreland was Achkaerin's closest ally and Serenity had among the many things in her bag something for the Morelander King but she'd deal with that later, the Kermah delegation was the first she wasn't overly familiar with though she had done her homework King Tebogo who headed the soon to be Paracambian Empress's home state within the Confederation, his wife and then the Consul, not an unusual assortment for an event such as this, the Vinitsian lady's party animal nature perhaps made her the first though not last nor most surprising guest. The Daitojin Emperor was someone she knew very well, she could recall plenty of evenings when he, her brother Simon and herself had sat around doing homework, debating things, playing chess, which Serenity tended to win and doing quizzes where the boys at that age had had all the knowledge, not a bad few years and Simon by virtue of the lower minimum entry age into the Achkaerinese military, sixteen to Daito's eighteen, liked to in a jovial way take a little partial credit for Eijiro's air force dreams having entered the Achkaerinese Air Force in 2009. Mayumi was someone she was keen to get to know but much like the Morelanders that could wait for now. An event such as this provided the opportunity to get to know those you didn't know and get better acquainted with those you barely knew, the most obvious cases in point being the trio of SUN leaders, they were on her radar in that respect and so to was the White Witch, it had taken a little while to as a lover of stories for Serenity to disassociate the title that Rhiannon held from the Chronicles of Narnia character but in any event Serenity did like the woman's style. Spotting Ketevan brought back happy memories of winning heptathlon gold at the most recent games and her father's push toward deeper relations, something Serenity hoped to see continue.

It was at that point that Sophia's gesturing with the phone took her attention, she nodded her acknowledgement guessing it was primarily for her benefit, getting her girls out for that moment wouldn't present a problem and knowing what the Zangbeto looked like, or would be looking like to be more precise as she had found herself smiling at  the costumes, would be of great help in that. Left to wait Serenity relaxed for a moment weighing up where to start when Akasha whispered in her ear, the Clysperi presence while in itself not surprising because Akasha was now looking beyond Midaranye in diplomatic terms was made surprising by Seti being there as far as diplomatic powder kegs went this was right up there the son of the Tamoran Emperor, the most significant obstacle in terms of eradicating the abomination of slavery, standing in Paracambi. But in the end who was more likely in the powder keg stakes the repentant Seti or the unrepentant Anginer? Clysperis, a nation that had turned itself around on the issue or Heyra, a nation that despite all words to the contrary failed to live up to not only its own words but its international obligations by its inaction? “I have no idea but this isn't a crowd so easily sweet talked." Serenity said answering Akasha's question "Actions count for far more here and maybe not today but one day it will catch up with them." she smiled before heading over to the refreshments table and picked up an apple, noticing some fresh strawberry's she held one up so Astrid could see and on sight her daughter raced over with Lisa right behind her. "Don't eat all of them." Serenity said and signed, the last thing she needed was an international incident caused by her daughters appetites.

[Sorrel]

Preoria's chosen delegate, Wynn Penry, a newly minted diplomat who had been dispatched to represent his people in lieu of their heavily engaged Prime Minister, was anxious. The Republic had limited diplomatic ties in this part of the world and he did not desire to create any potential future difficulties by making some outrageous faux pas, especially given that he was merely a diplomat among various heads of state. Dressed simply in a black suit and tie, and a small pin of his nation's flag affixed to his lapel, he had so far only clung to the wings of the congregation of representatives. He had already made his necessary introductions to the various personalities present and extended his apologies that Prime Minister Conway could not attend the function to his hosts, but that was only the beginning of what promised to be a very engaging social affair.

The relaxed atmosphere and candor of his Paracambian hosts however were starting to unravel his apprehensions, as he had expected they were good-humoured and jovial, it was thoroughly disarming even to the most withheld individual. At the end of the day his presence was not just to show face, it was to engage with his fellow representatives and build confidence in anyone who wished to improve their relations with the Republic.

He slowly wound his way to a more central spot in the mix, clutching a glass of some fruit drink that he had picked up from one of the tables, observing the engagements between the many notables around him and making himself more noticeable, hoping to catch some attention.

[Paracambi]

As aides told Prince Marcus that Wynn Penry had arrived their was a few surprised exchanges. It was good that Preoria had selected today to head into Albion. The Prince headed over and welcomed the diplomat and helped him find a refreshing drink. Meanwhile in the Temple's Lodge over the other side of the gardens Zuri was putting the final preparations to her attire. A white petticoat dress fringed in lace was underneath a brightly coloured dress. The red, yellow and green as vibrant as the islands forest was designed to have an opening to the front and a small train to the back. Around hear head she wore a colour co-ordinated head dress and around her shoulders a shawl designed to show the Castries coat of arms. There was a knock on the door and a young Able Seaman dressed in dress unifrom gave a smart salute. The traditional seahorse badge worn by the rest of the navy was replaced with that of a harp indicating that the boy came from HIMS Insolent. "Good Afternoon Your Majesty" he lowered his salute. "Emperor Benson sends his compliments but we are now to escort you to the Temple." He stood aside to allow her past, she was still not accustomed to intracies of things like this and so she dutifully followed. As she made her way downstairs she saw five others waiting each with a sword resting on their shoulder. The future Empress gathered the Able Seaman who had summouned her drew his own sword and took his position. To one side an officer waited patiently as Zuri took her place in the centre of her guard of honour. At the front was a small female sailor who gripped a snare drum by its sides a small silver crown sat on top and she carefully lifted the two items to keep them level. With barked orders they began the procession towards the Temple.

As Marcus finished his chat with the Preorian delegate he saw aides signal the time was close at hand. "Friends could we all file inside" he suggested and acted as a kind of sweeper to usher everyone in breaking up the conversations between Sabrina, Đurađ and Karlis. They could resume once the important business of the day was done. As everyone filed in he made sure a now uncostumed Zangbeto ensured Princess Serenity and her party were put at the end of a row and with a pillar blocking the view from TV camera and nearby door. If the Zangbeto did their job right then no one watching on TV would even notice the discreet "toilet trip". As everyone began to take their place the sound of music got louder and louder and as the last of them got settled a marching steel band entered just after four Zambetto with brooms entered sweeping the floor before them symbolically removing the evil from the Temple. As the band filtered to their seats a second group of Zambetto arrived sprinkling rum and flowers before them as gifts for the spirits known as Loa who would bless the day. Next there was a switch of religion, as the Empire included a significant minority of the Rastafarian faith a group of three red, yellow and green clad men with long dreadlocks entered to represent that group. Behind them came Benson, unlike what many would expect he was not dressed in a smart suit, robes or military attire, he wore a simple knee lenth white linen shirt and black trousers, a small leather belt at his waist from which a long curved knife hung. He took a few moments to come over and embrace those from the S.U.N nations before assuming his own place in a large wooden throne at the front next to which a slightly smaller one was arranged. Once his children joined him by standing either side of his throne a nod was given, the band silenced and the smart click clack of feet marching on marble as the drum weilding bands-woman entered carrying the Empresses crown. To the eagle eyed the silver crown had a front piece of which five golden emblems were set with space for one more. A choir began to sing the National Anthem and Zuri entered. She stopped at the foot of the steps that lead to the alter and her husband. A cushion was placed and she knelt as her husband rose to his feet.

"Great  Bondye, we are all gathered here today to witness our lands once more have an Empress. We call upon you to send your Loa to help us welcome her as the mother of the nation." Benson said proudly standing at the top of the stairs. He gave a signal and one of the representatives of the Rastafarian faith came to stand beside the Emperor.

"Jah today we hope that you will bless an Empress with the blessings only you can give. Let her lead us to Zion and a long life. Amen" Giles Mulagen, a leading Rasta scholar and good friend of the family ensured both faiths had been represented. Benson and Giles shook hands and Giles moved off to one side to allow Benson to address the crowd.

"Today after a time with only a father of the Empire the family will once again have a matriach. Empress Zuri shall guide our nation alongside me and with divine guidance we shall ensure the Empire moves from strength to strength. Zuri as the lead of the Vodou faith it falls to me to ask you to take oaths to the Loa." There were three steps that lead up to the alter. "Stand before the Loa" Benson instructed and his wife did as instructed. "To walk the path to be Empress you must swear to three promises. First to rule justly and with compassion, always placing the needs and well-being of the people first. If you will do this take a step" Zuri took the first step and waited.

"Next you must promise to uphold the laws and traditions of the land, and to always act with integrity, wisdom, and courage in the discharge of your duties as Empress." Benson waited as Zuri took the next step.

"Finally" Benson gave a slight glance over to where the Pharoah and the Heryan's were sat, "defend the realm against all enemies, both foreign and domestic, and to maintain peace and stability within the borders of the empire never resting while men are in chains." Dutifully Zuri took the final step and Benson turned her to face the crowd. "Zuri, first Empress of her name, has agreed to all that is required. Before she can take the Imperial crown though she must take the crown of Alemba."

A young man in his mid thirties stood up from the front row and carried a small crown towards the Empress. Ellington Jackson was the Governor of the Island, elected just six months ago, his role was largely to manage the day to day matters on the island but today he would be front and centre of the world for at least a few seconds. He bowed to Zuri and then waiting for her to lower her head began, "Jah I ask you to give Zuri wisdom, strength and grace. Let her lead this island to greater things." He carefully placed the small crown on her head making her Queen of Alemba before bowing to her. "As the representative of Alemba I present the Emperor with this" He took a box from his pocket and handed from it a small gold emblem of a parrott, the islands symbolic animal. Benson accepted it and handing it to the naval musician keeping the drum and crown under watch she carefully added it to the silver Imperial crown thus completing the collection on its front plate. It was now Benson waited a moment as a Zambetto gave Serenity a nudge giving her chance to extracate the children. A goat was brought down the aisle of the Temple still chewing away at grass it had been nibbling outside unaware of what was to happen. The goat walked down the aisle without a care in the world, a little curious about the new sights and smells. Three uniformed Zambetto gathered around it and nodded their approval having quickly inspected it to determine whether the Loa would accept the gift. The backup goat outside was lead away as Benson tied the rope around the goats neck to a post built into the Temple's floor. At this point the floor sloped into a small pit with a grate affixed just for occasions such as this. Benson drew the long knife. "Anaisa Pye, Ayida-Weddo and Belie Belcan. Zuri asks that you take special care of her. Accept her gift of blood and meat as a sign of her love and respect." With a swift forceful blow the Emperor severed the head of the goat from its neck and watched as the blood began to flow down the drain. The carcass of the goat was carried out by the Zambetto while Benson, his white shirt now splattered with blood cleaned the knife on the white petticoat of his wife before sheathing it in his belt. With some of the blood he annointed the head of Zuri before retrieving the crown of the Empire. It was designed to fit over the other provincial crowns and now with the three selected Loa watching carefully he placed the crown on the head. "Empress Zuri the First of the Empire of Paracambi take the throne." With that the Empress did as instructed and now all the Paracambians, including Benson took a knee and followed their Emperor. "We thank the divine for sending you to us, we shall help you keep your promises and at all times show our loyalty to you."

It took some time for the groups to file out. The guests were taken back to the gardens while Benson and Zuri quickly changed from their blood stained attire. There would be a brief moment to allow the military to move some of the crowds off the roads and allow them to return to the Palace.

[Lymm]

From here seat Rhiannon tried to make as many mental notes as she could. She had read a fair bit of Vodou literature in the lead up to arriving in Paracambi and the notion of magic and spirits had made her imagine that the faith might be one that Wicca could learn secrets from. She was no stranger to the blood letting, she herself had done such rituals countless times yet she felt disappointed. Her there was the life energy of the goat quiet literally running down the drain. In Lymm every drop possible was collected for use in future rituals, it was even a culinary delight when used to make smoked sausages and now pints were simply straining the ground. She wondered what would become of the goat itself now. Back home the horns could be ground up as an ingredient for rituals or else used for creating objects like drinking vessels or musical instruments. The hide would make bags and pouches to carry sacred ingredients or trinkets. Even the hoofs were used for a variety of things. She made a point that she would ask someone and now as they filed out into the garden she found one of the Zambetto. "Excuse me." She asked respectfully. "The goat, what happens to it now?" She asked her mental pen waiting to scrawl down an answer.

[Daitō]

   Eijirō and Mayumi were quiet during the ceremony, each having their own thoughts on it. Of course, there was the issue that the Paracambian Emperor was making an animal sacrifice, something which was kegare—ritually impure—in the Teidō faith. The shedding of blood in particular was of no issue, but rather the meaning behind it. Were it a ritual in Daitō, it would certainly be an affront to the Kami, but they had to remind themselves that, ultimately, they were not in Daitō. The rest of the coronation, by comparison, quite pleasant, if unique. Unique and... a bit excessive. Eijirō shuddered at the thought of having to visit all sixty-eight prefectures when he was enthroned, or when he married Mayumi. If such a trip was going to be made, it wouldn't be out of some ritualistic need owing to the nature of the state, that was for sure. All in all, though, it was a nice ceremony. Quite divorced from the sensibilities of the Onishi, but, for the most part, pleasant nonetheless.

[Sorrel]

For Wynn, the spectacle of the sacrifice was a bit overwhelming for his sensibilities. Of course he didn't have any disrespect to the culture and faith of the Paracambians, quite the opposite, he had a deep respect for the nation and it's culture, he just had a touch of Hemophobia. Coming from the Republic where the culture is largely secular it was definitely a shock. The sight of such a copious amount of blood would have made him ill were he not more capable of controlling his composure, though he could only fight down the nauseous feeling he got from the sight for so long, hopefully long enough for him to return to the Gardens and air himself out and drink down a glass of water to settle himself. He would need to if he wanted to properly congratulate the new Empress without looking queasy.

That being said he was making a mental note of some of the other people that would be beneficial to speak to, the Emperor of Daitō being of particular interest. It was a state that the Republic was interested in expanding relations with, and who better to leave a good impression on than the Imperial family themselves? It would certainly be a leg up for his burgeoning diplomatic career. 

[Chistopol]

Karlis had not expected Sabrina to address him and found himself a little embarassed by her kind words. "Well there were a lot of my countrymen who did far more than me and loss much more. Thanks to them we've a Chistopol that's getting its feet under itself and I get to simply sit back and watch while younger and more intelligent people get to do the hard work." He smiled. "As for the football it was a poor occasion....only because we didn't bring the cup home. I'm told though those attending did enjoy it." By now the crowd were being ushured inside. Karlis and his grand-daughter Lady Viktorias were among the last to get in as the aging King leaned on his walking sticks. He was happy to get settled and prepared for the upcoming ceremony. He knew from the S.U.N business he'd seen that there would be blood letting but hadn't expected it to be so graphic. He wasn't exactly a stranger to blood but seeing such a beautiful ceremony rely on blood was a bit sad in his eyes.

The ceremony over Karlis stayed behind in the Temple sight seeing a while as his grand-daughter kept an eye on him.

[Achkaerin]

Serenity had taken the nudge and the opportunity when it had come, letting the Zambeto steer the two children and Sparky off to the side, herself and Val not far behind, a well timed and well executed toilet break, the use of blood in ceremonies wasn't foreign to Serenity after all it did play a role in a fair few Achkaerinese ones but animal slaughter particularly this graphic was something it was better her children not see it. Out of both eye line and earshot of the ceremony Serenity waited for the nod that it was safe for them to head back, just in time to catch the moment of the crowning before they like the rest of the guests were taken back to the gardens. Now came the more businesslike part of affairs, come for the coronation stay for the diplomacy the big question though - where to start? Better to be someone she wasn't that familiar with, looking around she spied a diplomat she hadn't seen before where were they from? A quick trip into her mind's library as she liked to call it plucked up the answer - Preoria. Smiling a little she walked over to Wynn and handed him a glass of water

"No offence but you look like you could do with it." Serenity said now handing her girls a milkshake each, thankful for the refreshment opportunity not just because of the content of the ceremony but also the heat.

[Sorrel]

Wynn took the glass and eagerly swung back a gulp of the refreshingly cold liquid. Only taking a short breath to issue a short thank you to whoever passed it to him… That is before the gears in his head began to turn as he mentally flipped through the list of faces he had to remember in his diplomatic briefing. He suddenly snapped back up straight, “Ah, Princess Serenity I believe? Thank you for your kindness and please accept my apology for not recognizing you sooner… The rituals of the Paracambi are certainly something, my stomach isn’t particularly adept at handling such sights. I take it you are doing well? How is business back in Achkaerin?” He said as cordially as he could, trying to quickly regain his professional composure.

Achkaerin was another state the Republic had interest in expanding it’s dealings with, it was as good an opportunity  as any for him to have a chat, even if he was trying his best to not let his mild hemophobia get the better of him. The drink certainly helped.

[Achkaerin]

Serenity smiled "It's certainly a more unusual ceremony, though not the most outlandish." she said mentally recalling a ceremony where the individual partaking had had their arm severed, "As for business back home, safe to say we're getting there it's been nice to have relative calm at home and abroad in recent times, certainly helps in terms of various process's and daily routine, maybe you should come and see for yourself. What of Preoria? How goes your business?"

[Paracambi]

As people chatted a young Zangbetto found a woman approach him and ask about the goat. The bush attired man thought for a minute as he did his best to remember the face of this lady, "The White Witch" his brain said to him. "Well Lady Rhiannon" his voice eminating from within the attire, "The goat meat will be split into thirds. One third will be left in the open for the Loa to take, a third will be used for royal family as they paid for the animal and a third will be used by the community for whatever purpose they see fit." There was around half an hour to mingle and get refreshments before the Emperor addressed the gathering. "I would like to thank each of you for coming to this special day for our nation. This is the first time that we have had two Vodou monarchs in our nations history and I am excited for what that means for the future. I hope you will join with me in welcoming the Empress Zuri I of Paracambi and that you will join us back at the Palace for traditional food, music and entertainment." The Emperor walked over to the Achkaerin delegation, with small children they'd probably like to not be hanging around and so Benson ensured he escorted them to the first of a fleet of waiting cars. The trip to the Palace would be a rather short one. The road was merely 2km down towards the coast. The Palace was backed onto the beach and while there were kabana's set up as well as a steel band playing. Benson had even had a variety of beach games set up for the younger guests. As the Achkaerin delegation set off it would have been clear to Serenity and the others that the crowd was already beginning to fade away, people keen to head home and get their own party on.

As though by the time King Karlis in the middle of the cars was beginning his own shuttle run to the Palace a newer crowd was beginning to form. This new crowd was younger and while the green and gold was still present in their pallette the black had been replaced by red, the Rastafari had arrived and they were upset. Their had been a long standing agreement in the Empire that the male members of the Imperial family would follow the Vodou faith and the female the Rastafari. That arrangement had though died with Benson's first wife and now even his daughter, the 21 year old Sophia, had turned her back on the Rasta faith even going so far as becoming a Zangbeto.

There were two cars left to go to the Palace, the Morelanders and the Emperor and new Empress. It was then that things broke down. As the two cars made the turn out of the Temple a swarm of humanity surged forward. The safety barriers lining the roads were pushed down and stones and rocks were hurled at the convoy. Military vehicles attempted to sweep past but at this one point the road was rather narrow. As the Morelander royals sat in the car a crowd gathered around it trying to peer in through the darkened windows. A few began rocking the car while one young boy aged no more than 14 took out a spray can and in red spray paint daubed "Benson Babylon" the drivers did their best to push through the crowd and several people ended up bouncing off the bonnets of the cars. As the Morelander vehicle made it into open space, thanks in part to aggressive driving and a healthy application of rifle butts by soldiers gathered along the route, the sound of flashbangs and then gunshots as men fired into the air above the heads. The Imperial car was more bogged down as soldiers forced themselves into a protective circle around it. Soon sirens filled the air as more and more security forces flooded into the area. Inside the car Zuri was crying and Benson cursing at the men to just move forward. A cricket bat was hurled from somewhere in the crowd and it hit the toughened glass of the side window and despite not breaking the window had buckled somewhat. It was only when it looked like the soldiers would be overwhelmed that they switched to levelling their rifles at the crowd. In a panic the crowd split and scurried away a rather shocked Benson and weeping Zuri arrived at the Palace a few minutes behind the Morelanders. Benson began bawling at the security detail demanding to make sure his guests were unharmed, meanwhile a concerned looking Sophia made sure her new step mother was taken away and helped by members of the Palace staff.

Prince Marcus, having witnessed his fathers arrival and been informed by his own security detail of what was happening now stepped in as host. "Friends, nothing to worry about. Please lets head to the beach and enjoy some cocktails, fire dancing and some food." he ushered people down the beach path while his father was trying to calm down and apologise to the Morelanders.