Dear Prince Maximus

I am excited by your proposition and I'd be delighted to meet with you. I believe that it is far too long since our nations have meet and now we have a great oppurtunity to do great things and solidify our region of the world at a time when in other parts of Albion we see problems. I hope that perhaps we can also add this current issue to the agenda you have suggested.

 Emperor Lucius III

Achille Giraud, the owner and Chairman of AGPerformance, has today announced controversial sporting event to take place in the city of Ebora. The first ever "Performance Supported Games" will take place in late March at the National Sports Arena in the Imperial Capital and will be the first major sporting event to take place with no anti-doping procedures. Speaking at a press conference Mr.Giraud stated, "Our company has for just over a decade now excelled in producing a range of medical and sporting suppliments designed to fine tune and perfect the bodies performance. The problem is that we've got so good at what we do that many of our products are considered too potent for professional sports, they give the user such an advantage that the Mundus Games Committee has banned them. We, sports fans that is, often imagine what is possible and so we're going to find out. We will permit any athlete to compete in this games on condition of proving that they have meet certain qualification criteria in terms of previous performance. We want this to be a spectacle and if your simply someone seeking TV time then we're not interested, if you're someone with genuine talent and potential we welcome you. We are hopeful of attracting some excellent athletes willing to accept a showcase to let the world see what peak human performance really is."

It is understood that the games are not supported by the Eboracum Sporting Association who stated, "The use of performance enhancing drugs and supplements can be dangerous. Rules do not exist to limit performance but to help athletes stay safe. They exist to ensure that the rich nations of Mundus who could, if they were willing, pump their sportsmen and women full of every steriod and EPO going while the poorer nations would be relegated to second place simply because of lack of chemical enhancement. While we are not able to stop the games we can not officially sanction them meaning that things such as world records can't be set nor will the results appear in any official capacity. For any Eboracum athlete taking part we will also ensure that they are tested the moment they declare any intention to compete in sanctioned events in the future.

Mr.Duraid also confirmed that he has reached out to some of Mundus sporting greats in an effort to entice them to compete. Speaking at the launch he said, "We have offered East Moreland's Daisy Greechan a significant sum of money if she comes here and competes and a bonus if she can beat any of the world records. We're keen that this can become an ongoing event every year." AGPerformance currently are the largest supplier of steriod medication to the health care system in Eboracum and have over a hundred licenced suppliments on sale in health stores and supermarkets ranging from Vitamen C suppliments to Pre-Workout boosters. In 2023 the company made $78million profit and expect to do even better this year as they begin expanding into more global markets.

Henrik found himself a gin and tonic as he followed Alyona towards the quiet corner. He held her seat for her and then took a seat opposite. He had been made aware that Alyona had been given some kind of briefing but was not aware of the extent of that briefing. He took a sip of his drink and then figured he might as well just tell her everything. "In Eboricum the Imperial Family have what I guess you'd consider extra privileges. Our faith tells us that my soul is one that belongs to a being that has volunteered to forgoe their place in paradise, what I some faiths would call heaven, in order to come here and do the work of our God Veridus in guiding mankind to find their own paths to paradise. The problem is most of us are not going to be deemed to have lived a good enough life to enter paradise so we are reborn on Mundus. The Imperials though are the volunteers who have in the past achieved paradise and now are willing to give up their place there for the short term in order to help others. If the Imperial Family is small that means less physical forms for the volunteers to be born into. That means the Emperor, and his sons, are expected to have many children. I am the middle child of twelve that my father has. This is where the idea of consorts come in the more women in a mans life the more children." He stopped realising that the explanation may be slightly insulting or concerning for Alyona.

"I've reached the age at which my father believes I should be taking on direct Imperial duties. That means speaking in my role as Consul, it means undertaking foreign visits like this and it gives me control over my own household. Eventually my father will likely arrange a marriage with a noble girl for me but I actually get to select my own consorts." He sighed for a moment, "I'm sad to say I don't believe my father truly deeply loved my mother.....there was respect and fondness but no love. Its Lady Astrid that I believe my father is most in love with and as such she's been very influential in the time that my father has been with her. Its my hope that the concept of consorts may actually become a diplomatic tool and as such I asked Queen Natalya if she could help me. She suggested you and this brings us to this moment. Now I know we've known each other only a few hours but I believe there could be something between us, I'd like to explore that if you would?"

Henrik was thrilled that Alyona seemed to be enjoying his company. He was still getting to know her but he believed that with time he would get to like her. "We don't really go for the level of formality or organisation that you have here but we do the occasional ball, they're usually for weddings or when its the solstice's but I think you have us well beat when it comes to practice." He explained. "I'm becoming one of our nations two Consuls. Each January the Empire gets two, this year it will be me and my father so we basically get to run the Empire, or more  honestly he does and I get to help if and when he lets me. It'll be a good experience though as I'll be more involved with the day to day business of the Empire. In addition I get the whole of one of the two wings of the Royal Palace as a kind of personal domain. I'll have my own staff, my own kitchen even. I hope you'll come and see." The music stopped before they could really conclude that statement and before he knew it Svetlana had appeared.

"She seems nice" He responded to Svetlana's question about Alyona. "Not as wonderful as you though" he added enjoying holding her close. It took his mind, which was unaccustomed to Lodjain morality, a moment or two to work out what Svetlana meant by giving him they key but as the metaphorical light bulb came on above his head he found himself subconsciously touching the key every few minutes checking that it was still there and pondering what to do. His mind gymanastics meant very few of the other girls got his full attention as his eyes kept scanning the dance floor looking first for Svetlana and then Alyona. He was pleased when the beautiful Lady in Waiting rejoined him and this time he himself was a little more daring letting his hand slide a little lower than her waist as they danced. "What I would like to do is take you for my consort" He smiled, "But we've already been over that. So I must settle for trying to see if I can convince Alyona to take the role." He paused for a moment, "I do though hope you'll let me come and thank you for your help later tonight." He smiled at her and held the key up. He wanted to kiss her but thought better of it and so making a show of politeness he bowed to Svetlana making sure he said his thank you's loud enough for other guests to hear and having spotted Alyona across the ballroom made his way over. "Hello Alyona" He said as he approached her. "I wonder if perhaps you'd like to get a drink with me?" He enquired.

Henrik had learned a little dance in his youth. His father had insisted as it was a skill that he claimed showed a nation was civilised and that the mastery of body and mind working in harmony helped other skills. Henrik personally thought it was a bit nonsense but nether the less had been a diligent student as anytime it appeared he would not be he had meet his fathers belt. While he was no expert he was confident that he'd be able to cruise round some Lodjain ballroom without embarrassing himself. "Had I known the Lodjain party scene was so energetic I'd have slept on the flight over." he smiled, "As for the kindness it was non at all, I'm always happy to share wine and conversation. I will though be delighted to accept your offer of some Lodjain dancing. As for saving you a dance I'd be thrilled, however I believe I'd be expecting to find a rush to fill your dance card. I find it hard to see why you're here alone." He thought for a moment on the brief series of notes he'd been given by Svetlana on Alyona and wondered if he had perhaps said something now likely to upset her. "Do you even have dance cards? I mean are they an actual thing?" He asked trying to turn the conversation back to something a little less formal. "I've read in the media about your summer ball season so I suppose Lodja is likely to be the experts on such matters."

VINCENTE WINES

Vincente Wines was established in the early 19th century by Alessandro Vincente, a visionary winemaker with a passion for viticulture. Born into a family of vintners in the lush Moracan Valley, Alessandro recognized the potential of the region's fertile soil and favorable climate for grape cultivation. In a time when Eboracum was still finding its political stability under the Archambault rule, Alessandro set out to create a legacy that would intertwine with the nation's history.With the establishment of the Heptarchic Council and the consolidation of power under the Archambaults, Vincente Wines seized the opportunity to expand its vineyards across the Moracan Valley. The company's wines became a symbol of Eboracum's unity, enjoyed by both commoners and nobility alike. In this period, Vincente Wines also began exporting its products to foreign markets, contributing significantly to Eboracum's GDP. The winery's reputation for producing high-quality wines grew, and the Vincente family became prominent figures in both political and social circles. he 20th century saw Vincente Wines embracing modern viticultural practices and technological advancements. Under the leadership of successive generations of the Vincente family, the winery adopted state-of-the-art winemaking techniques without compromising the traditional craftsmanship that defined their products. Vincente Wines diversified its product line, introducing new and innovative blends that appealed to a global audience. The company's commitment to excellence and Veridusist principles continued to shape its identity, attracting a loyal customer base both domestically and internationally.

Typical Annual Profits - $150million


NEOZINE COSMETICS

Neozine, a name synonymous with beauty and glamour in Eboracum, traces its roots back to the 18th century when the ambitious alchemist, Isabella Castellan, set out to revolutionize cosmetic craftsmanship. In the midst of Eboracum's newfound unity under the Archambaults, Isabella established Neozine with a vision to blend science, art, and tradition in the pursuit of creating cosmetics that enhanced natural beauty. Neozine's reputation flourished as Isabella's innovative formulations gained favor not only among the common people but also within the royal courts of the seven kingdoms. The company secured exclusive contracts with the Eboracian monarchs, solidifying its status as the preferred cosmetics provider for the noble and elite. As Eboracum entered an era of political stability and economic growth, Neozine embraced technological advancements and expanded its product range. The company's commitment to quality and innovation led to the introduction of groundbreaking cosmetics, from long-lasting lip tints to fragrances infused with exotic Moracan floral essences. Neozine's marketing campaigns began to reflect the changing societal norms, emphasizing individuality and self-expression while maintaining the elegance and discipline associated with Veridusism. The company's products became symbols of empowerment for Eboracian women. As the beauty industry evolved, Neozine adapted by incorporating environmentally conscious practices and ethical sourcing. The company actively supports local communities and environmental initiatives, aligning its values with the contemporary concerns of Eboracian society.

Typical annual profits - $300million


BARKAS AUTOMOTIVE

Barkas Automotive, the epitome of luxury and engineering prowess in Eboracum, had its humble beginnings in 1912 when  Leonidas Barkas founded the company. Born into a family of farmers, Leonidas combined his passion for tinkering with machines and an interest in the new designs of automobiles he set up a company with the aim of creating not just cars but rolling pieces of art that embodied discipline and perfection. Leonidas' innovative designs and commitment to craftsmanship elevated Barkas cars to a level of exclusivity, with each vehicle being a testament to the intersection of art and engineering. The company's vehicles, adorned with fine leather, exotic wood trim, and cutting-edge technology, became a status symbol in the nation. Barkas Automotive experienced a golden age of design and innovation during the mid-20th century. Collaborating with renowned architects and artists, the company introduced iconic models that set global standards for luxury automobiles. Barkas' presence expanded to international markets, with flagship stores in major cities around the world. In addition to automobiles the company have also franchised their name for a variety of other uses ranging from video games to watches.


MODAR

Modar Bikes, founded in 1970 by entrapeneur and engineer Isabella Modar. As a female biker she believed many of the bikes on sale where far too heavy, far too expensive and over-engineered. As a result the company emerged as a pioneer in the motorcycle industry with a distinct mission: to revolutionize riding while prioritizing affordability. Modar Bikes quickly gained recognition for its commitment to low cost designs and became a popular "starter" brand for riders in the nation.

In 1993 Isabella's daughter Maria became one of the directors on the board and began giving the brand a focus on the younger market and its concerns. This particularly became the environment . In the 1994, the company introduced its first line of motorcycles powered by alternative energy sources, including electric and hybrid models. As environmental awareness grew globally, so did Modar Bikes' influence. The company's green innovations resonated with a new generation of riders who sought sustainable alternatives without compromising on performance. Modar Bikes expanded its reach beyond Eboracum, establishing a strong global presence with flagship stores in major cities.In the 2010s, Modar Bikes fully embraced the electric era. The company dedicated itself to developing cutting-edge electric motorcycles that not only surpassed traditional petrol-powered bikes in performance but also championed a future of clean and sustainable transportation. Modar's electric models became synonymous with innovation and environmental responsibility. The brand's dedication to creating a global impact on reducing carbon emissions set it on a path to become a leading force in the electric motorcycle market.

Typical Annual Profit- $150million


LOCAL LEAVES

Local Leaves Union., originally established in the 1950s as a farmers' cooperative, emerged from the shared vision of Eboracian farmers committed to cultivating the land with ethical and sustainable practices. The cooperative flourished in its early years, embodying a dedication to community conscious agriculture. However, in the 1970s, Local Leaves Co. faced a period of ethical challenges that stained its reputation. Accusations of unethical farming practices prompted a soul-searching journey. In response, the cooperative underwent a transformative restructuring in the late 1970s, transitioning into a privately held company named Local Leaves Co. The rebranding aimed to symbolize a commitment to a new era of ethical and responsible agriculture. The next three decades were challenging for Local Leaves Co. The company, now privately owned, battled financial instability and struggled to break even. Despite adversity, Local Leaves Co. remained steadfast in its commitment to ethical farming practices, weathering the storm and working to rebuild trust within the agricultural community and among consumers. In the early 2000s, Local Leaves Co. experienced a remarkable resurgence. Under new leadership and fueled by a renewed commitment to sustainability, the company embraced cutting-edge agricultural practices. Local Leaves Co. became a trailblazer in environmentally friendly farming methods, emphasizing precision agriculture, organic farming, and eco-conscious supply chain practices. This shift not only garnered positive attention from consumers but also attracted support from environmental organizations and governmental bodies. Local Leaves Co.'s dedication to ethical and sustainable farming practices became a guiding light in the industry.

Typical Annual Profits - $70million

6 Sirene Class Attack Submarines

Curie, Pascalque, Lavoisier, Ampere, Lamarck, Pasteur

8 Dragonneau Class Destroyer

Laplace, Poincare, Lagrange, Cuvier, Biot, Fourier, Vernier, Fresnel

5 Griffonelle Class Frigate

Becquerel, Carnot, Dulong, Fournien, Luisse

5 Chimeric Class Corvette

Berthollet, Cauchy, Monge, Coriolis, Laennec

4 Feerique Class Mine-Warfare Ship

Coulont, Riemann, Arago, Pouisson

1 Lutin Class Reconessaince Ship

Femat

2 Dracolier Class Research Platform

Malpigi , Descartes

400 Griffin Battle Tanks
250 Basilisk Battle Tanks
120 Dolmite Self Propelled Howitzer
110 Wyvern Self Propelled Howizter
80 Roc Multiple Rocket Artillery
60 Kraken Multiple Rocket Artillery
300 Harpy Infantry Fighting Vehicles
200 Centaur Infantry Fighting Vehicles
120 Minotaur Armoured Personnel Carriers
110 Cerebous Armoured Personnel Carriers
150 Cyclops Reconnesance Vehicles
300 Nemean Mine Resistant Patrol Vehicles
600 Gorgon Armoured Patrol Vehicle
100 Manticore Tank Destroyers
80 Hippogriff Mobile SAM System
50 Hydra Mobile Air Defence System
300 Sphinx All Terrain Patrol Vehicles
200 Unicorn General Purpose Vehicles
30 Phoenix Attack Helicopters
30 Pegasus Utility Helicopters
20 Gargole UAV

Henrik had been surprised to find the Morelanders had approached him. While he knew that there were likely to be guests here from various embassies he had not expected there to be anyone as significant as the King of East Moreland's cousin. "Lord Peter" Henrik responded to his guest. "Miss Hodgkinson." He shook both their hands. "I'm grateful for the gift from your King. Please ensure you pass along my respects next time you get a chance. I will of course endeavour to fill this" He said tapping on the cover of the book given as a gift and making a show of placing the book into his inside coat pocket and tapping it gently showing it was safe. "as for the matter of Miss Hogkinson's credentials follow me." Hernik walked around the bonfire where his outfit from earlier in the day was burning away. He found his father talking to several of the members of his Imperial Vanguard, a military unit dedicated to the Emperor directly. "Father" He attracted his attention. "We have to welcome Lord Peter Kade, cousin to King David of East Moreland and our new ambassador, Miss Millie Hodgkinson"

The Emperor handed a glass of wine he had been consuming to one of the people he'd been chatting with. "Peter" he shook the mans hand, "Millie" he gave her a small bow. "I'm delighted you have come. Miss Hodgkinson I look forward to having you come and visit me many times when we host parties and events here. I'm overdue a visit to East Moreland so perhaps we can have you do that for me. I am officially delighted to accept you as the ambassador representing East Morlenad."

Henrik looked over the statement and was satisfied. It did though just need one small addition. "I hope Your Divine Majesty will not mind if I slightly change the statement. My father believes manners are important. I therefore would like to include in the statement that the Heptarchy wish to thank you for your hospitality and support."

As the Queen turned her attention to the Crown-Princes own matter he was only too happy to follow Svetlana. He had found all four of the Ladies in Waiting, as well as the Queen, beautiful but he was especially drawn towards her pretty face, perhaps it was due to the attention she had been giving him. He found it difficult to begin to explain to her his situation with "the ladies" but after a pause of a few seconds he began. "Things in our two nations have some similarities. We both believe the person sitting on the throne has a special purpose assigned by a higher power. The nation looks to that person both to be a guide through navigating this world but also through being an example for others. While your Queen is expected to be the embodiment of beauty and grace, to be what could be described as the persona of a Goddess where....erm.....intermacy." He tried to be as diplomatic as he could, "Is seen as a form of praise in the Heptarchy things are different. There my father is expected to be Gods messenger to Mundus, and that means I am in training to be that. Our faith teaches us discipline and devotion to Veridas is to be placed above all......except that is if your a member of the Imperial Family. You see it is believed we are actually simply vessels for brave voulenteers from paradise returning to Mundus to help guide the uneducated, that comes with a few perks. My father believes as Crown Prince I have two duties, the first to learn everything I can from him and the second to father as many children as I can. He himself has 12 children and yet desires more. I love all my siblings, and half siblings as though they are no different. In the past though this makes relationships difficult. Are girls wanting to be with me because they liked me, or because they liked the idea of being the lover of a Crown-Prince. When I was in the Air Force there was a young lady I was in a relationship with for three months. She was called Tamzin and was a helicopter pilot. We kept things secret as best we could but my security detail eventually told my father who had her fully background checked and the fact her father was not a regular attender of Temple was enough for him to transfer her away. He was not willing to risk me fathering a child with someone potentially not devout. Otherwise there has been the odd......dalliance....but nothing more."

The time came to head back but in truth Henrik wished he could have spent a little longer with Svetlana. When reunited with the Queen and the others he was surprised by the speed the Lodjains had acted. "I'm amazed at the speed you can handle this, I thank you for giving my request such attention." He was surprised a little that in just a few hours he would potentially be meeting them. He listened to what the Queen said and then looked at their photos. He was nervous for what he had to say, "I appreciate that you have gone to this effort. I believe that Alyona is the most beautiful of the three but all are a credit to your Goddess." He was no believer but it would not do to insult the Queen, especially as what would come next might. "However my concern about all three is how they would be perceived back home. There will naturally be the religious barrier to overcome but in the past that hasn't been neccessarily and issue." He thought back to a time when often Consorts had been slave girls the Emperor or his sons had taken a liking to and come from all across Mundus. Times though had changed in many ways. "The 21st Century means a consort is almost to be treated like a 2nd wife. They have influence and are considered a reflection of my father. Take for example his youngest consort Astrid Traver, she is the patron of many sporting charities, Clara Girard supports various literacy programmes across the Empire. They have good standing and my problem is....I apologise but I can think of no kind way of putting this.....all three of these girls are in some manner broken. Alyona from a matter of beauty I'd be proud to have on my arm. But a father in prison is not going to go down well, nor would a family with traitors to their monarch or someone who likely I'd be paying the debts for." Henrik was about to take a gamble. "I will of course be happy to meet Alyona, any man would be crazy to pass up a chance to at least investigate whether they are someone you would like to be with, but I hold out a little hope as I explained. I did do some research before coming here so perhaps I can make a suggestion." He took a deep breath. "I would be an exceptionally happy man is Svetlana could be my consort. I must admit she was someone I knew little about before coming here and not someone our civil service had told me about, which only shows their failings. She is beautiful, charming and I know the people of the Heptarchy would fall in love with her. The name I was also given was Sabina Volkov. Do you think these would be possibilities to meet as well?"

December 19th, Ebora Imperial Guard HQ Prison Block A, 11:58pm

"Félix Hébert. You have been found guilty of the crime of rape of a minor by a jury of your peers. You have been sentenced to death. The sentence having been approved by the Emperor will now be carried out. Do you have any final words?" The Commander of the Imperial Vanguard proclaimed. It was the final execution of the 12 scheduled and for this one the commander could have filled the firing squads six spots hundreds of times over. This was the one his men had all willingly wanted to be part of because of the brutality of Hébert's crime. The condemned man muttered some words about regretting what he was and hoping Veridus would give him a second chance.

"Fat Chance" one of the marksman selected muttered under his breath earning him an awkward stare from the Commander. Hébert was strapped to a specially designed chair and a hood placed over him. His specially designed red jacket had a yellow triangle roughly where his heart would be. The Commander stepped to the side well out of the way of the six man squad. Four of them had real bullets while two had wax tipped ones that gave the feel and sound of a real bullet but would fire no projectile however all hoped they would fire the lethal shot. There would now be no verbal orders. With a white cane the Commander held the stick horizontally out from himself and then men removed their safety catches. Keeping his arm straight he swept the cane vertically until it pointed directly at the roof. The soldiers took careful aim at the yellow triangle and the Commander waited a moment or two ensuring that each of his men appeared to be squinting down the sights. Satisfied they were he swept the cane down in a fast chopping action and in one single moment six booms filled the air followed by Hébert being thrown backwards slightly in the chair. The Commander gave his first verbal order. "Safety firearms" and his men replaced the safety catch and laid their weapons down before taking a step back. The Commander and a doctor moved forward, the doctor checking for a pulse as the Commander held his pistol ready to deliver a lethal head shot should the firing squad have somehow failed. It was not needed and the death confirmed a prison officer pulled a lever and Hébert's chair reclined backwards depositing the body down a shoot where a team of Priestesses began work quickly. Ropes were attached to his feet and his jacket and hood removed. In a matter of seconds the body was hung upright, head down over a large metallic box and with a swift and well practiced motion one of the women had cut the juglar. Another Priestess added a few drops of a chemical to the blood ensuring it didn't clot or pool. By 2am eight special flasks of blood had been filled from the 12 executions and now members of the Imperial Vanguard began transporting them to the Temples throughout the Empire that needed them ready for the morning ceremonies.

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20th December 2023, Ebora Imperial Temple, 8am

The Temple was a large white marble construction in the shape of a triangle. To its point there was a large garden which in summer would host concerts of religious music but now in the depth of winter was a place largely devoid of colour and life. The base of the triangle ran along a cobbled street and was already packed with the nobles of the Imperial Province ready to take part in todays rituals. The Temple could seat about 1000 people but many more would stand outside and watch the proceedings on big screens filing through later in the day.

A procession of cars began to arrive. First there was the Emperor. He exited the car and largely ignored the crowd making a beeline for the Priestess who would be handling the days ceremony. He checked with her that all had been prepared and deemed her competent to handle the days proceedings. Dressed in black he blended in among the gloomy morning. His wife Empress Josephina accompanied him likewise dressed in black but unlike her husband she waved to the crowd acknowledging them as she made her way inside. The next three cars carried the Imperial Consorts who exited dressed in plain white dresses, their hair tied back into long pony tails. Next was Crown Prince Henrik who accompanied by his half sister Florette took time to go and visit with the crowd. He did his best to seem the Imperial heir channelling his fathers stern and serious manner but when a young school girl asked if he'd take a selfie with her the youngsters cheery smile was hard to turn down. Seeing a fleet of various other vehicles approaching he wished a happy Solstice to the crowd and walking behind his much shorter half sibling the green clad duo climbed the Temple steps.

It would take an hour to get everyone inside but once the ceremony was ready it was a rather swift affair. It began with a song celebrating the fact that they had all survived the winter so far and praising Veridus for giving them the strength. Next the Emperor and Empress lit candles before the Emperor took an oath on behalf of the whole Empire. This done it was time for the blood ritual. Members of the Vanguard carried an ornate golden vase between them to a large stone circular pit in the centre of the temple. The pit had a statue of a wolf similar to that on the Empires flag built into it and carefully the soldiers poured the blood collected from the executions over the wolf until it pooled in the bottom. Once the vase had been emptied the Emperor approached and using a cloth cleaned the wolf before tossing the blood soaked rag into a fire. "Today we ask Veridus to bless my family as we help guide you to the promise of a better world in the next life. Join with us as we do the work of our loving God." He spoke before motioning for his wife to join him. He bent and dipped a finger into the blood and marked her forhead. She walked to a bank of seats and sat. Next the three Consorts lined up and dipping a hand into the blood once more the Emperor left a bloody hand print on the lower stomach, a sign that he was asking the God to make them fertile. Their white dresses now bearing the bloody outline made their way to their seat next came the Crown Prince who did not immediately receive the expected blessing from his father. "Today is a special day. Today I announce that my beloved son Henrik will become an official part of the government. Today he will prepare to take on the role of Consul from the 1st of January. He shall serve his term alongside myself and together we shall guide the Empire. He today becomes the owner of the Heirs Wing of our Imperial Palace and I expect and demand that he fulfil all his obligations as a future Emperor. I ask that Veridus bless him with wisdom." He pressed his blood soaked hand into the dark buzzcut hair of his son. "Give him the courage to be a leader" He pressed his hand on his son's heart before pressing a blood print onto his own sons lower stomach "and the virility to father countless vessels for the volunteers of Veridus." His father referred to the belief that the extended Imperial family were all the elite from their faiths version of heaven who had volunteered, selflessly, to return to Mundus to guide others to paradise. Henrik though simply blushed as he accepted his fathers proud embrace before taking his own seat. His two older sisters came next, followed by his half siblings his father had bred with the three consorts. The serious work done the Imperials left leaving the rest of the congregation to file past the blood pit and dip into it a piece of cloth. They would take this home and in their own fire place burn it casting the Gods blessings through their own home. People filed past until several hours later a young woman, not even the last in line, had to run her embroided cloth around the rim of the pit to get the last drops.

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20th December 2023, Ebora Imperial Palace, 1pm


The religious aspects of the day done it was time to enjoy the festivities. The Imperials who had been coated in blood quickly changed into smart suits or dresses and gathered in the rear of the Palace. They had discussed inviting various dignitaries from across Mundus to the event because of Henrik's ascension to Consul being part of the day however Lucius had said no, today was a day for his family. Now though there was at least some relaxation as a few ambassadors and others had joined the gathering, probably on the promise of champagne, fine food and dancing. First though in a wide circle around a bonfire Lucius and his large extended family held their clothing from earlier ready and on the count of three threw them into the fire.

Clara was born in the town of Grimala in the Kingdom of Aurélienne in 1985. Her father was the Count of Grimala and she is an only child. Her father was a leading member of the Navy and as such spent a lot of time away from home. Clara was sent away to the Imperial Academy for Girls at the age of 11 in 1996. She grew up alongside many of the leading nobles in the nation and found a flair for poetry. By the time she was 16 she had two anthologies of poems published.

In 2002 her father was approached by the then Prince Lucius about writing several pieces for him to read during the Summer Solstice. The two became close and at that years Winter Solstice she was confirmed as his Consort. The two became inseperable for the next five years however after that things began to fizzle out. When Lucius took Astrid Taver as a Consort he has seen very little of Clara. This arrangement has seemingly suited Clara fine as she spends much of her time writing and support literacy charities utilising her position as Consort to attract attention to her works. Despite not having shared Lucius bed since 2020 she is still respected as a Consort and is often wheeled out at the various religious celebrations in order to provide readings.

In 2003 she gave birth to her first child, a daughter called Axelle, who is currently completing a Law Degree at University

In 2005 she gave birth to her second child, a son called Jean-Michelle, who is currently in his final year of secondary education and intends to join the Army.

In 2018 she gave birth to her third child, a son called Marcelle.

Alyssa Campanella

Astrid was born in the small village of Deniaud in 1990. Her family ran the local post office which her father had purchased with his medical retirement money after injuring his knee while in the Imperial Parachute Regiment. Astrid had an unremarkable childhood. She attended her local state school where she was a popular girl who was an average academic. She was part of the hockey team and played flute in the school orchestra. Her older brother Luc (three years older) went on to play football for the nations under 18's and then went on to play for RC Ebora, one of the largest clubs in the country.

Astrid applied to ETV, the nations largest TV company, in 2008 to work an apprenticeship to be a news reporter. She however was not given a position in the news media team and ended up working for the sports section of the company, largely due to her connections to Luc Traver but also for her extensive knowledge of a wide range of sports. In 2011 she began co-presenting an early morning Sports TV programme and coupled with her good looks became a popular presenter on the network.

In 2012 she attended a charity event at the Imperial Palace and caught the eye of the Emperor. He soon began regularly inviting her to the Palace and in early 2013 the Priestesses of Veridus approved the Emperors desire for Astrid to become one of his permitted Consorts. At that years Celebration of Light the Emperor made it official.

In May of 2014 she gave birth to her first child with the Emperor, a daughter called Isidore. The Emperor then bestowed, as is tradition once a Consort provides a child, a noble title upon her making her Baroness of her home town. Deniaud warmly accepted their first Baroness and a street was named after her later in the year.

In 2016 she gave birth to her second child, a son called Blaise. The Emperor at that point was delighted with her and presented her with a large estate just outside the capital.

In 2020 she gave birth to her third child, a son called Felix.

To many it is clear that Astrid is the favourite of the Emperors consorts and this is evident as she has amassed a rather impressive collection of jewellry and other gifts from the Emperor.

Astrid fills her days helping Empress Josephina manage various charities as well as promoting the sport of hockey which she adores. As her children with the Emperor are educated and cared for in the Imperial household she is often in Ebora spending time with them as well as the various other Imperial children.

Katya Zubrik

Henrik seemed to relax as Natalya approved of the gifts and seemed to be rather kind. He hoped she would attend the Solstice and perhaps more importantly the celebrations afterwards. As she tilted her head from side to side Henrik couldn't help but marvel at her beauty and did his best not to stare. He had hoped to be sat alongside the Queen but didn't complain when Svetlana joined him. As the two other girls whispered their compliment Henrik felt his cheeks burning and knew he must have blushed brightly. He accepted the win and perhaps took too much of a gulp hoping the liquid would calm his nerves slightly. He was pleased when matters turned to business, he at least was prepared for this. "The first thing is that we are aware of your high speed rail network across the continent and linking with Aosta, we'd like to get permission to expand the network into the Empire. We believe it will be useful in terms of connecting us to the wider continent. Thats the first matter. The second matter is we would like to have some involvement with TUNA however we do not want to be involved in the Water Nomad situation. We are a nation that believe our land is sacred and our people have a sacred mission in life. The Water Nomads owe alliegance to nobody and as such we do not believe their lives are compatible with being citizens of the Empire. Now that is not to say we wish them harm or wish to see them removed, we simply want to find a way that we could live side by side with them without having to grant them rights as a citizen. My father though does admire the work that TUNA has done and would like us to have some connection to it. As a founder nation you are someone I hope could help guide is in our decisions on such a matter. Finally I have a matter of importance on a personal level. You see I am approaching my reign as Consul. As such it is important I achieve two things. The first is an element of success as a politican, and the second is that I start fulfilling the Procreatio Divina, you see our faith believe that the Imperial Family are basically reincarnations of volunteers from paradise who are willing to help guide mankind. As such we are expected to produce many other "Vessels" for future voulenteers to reincarnate into. It is tradition therefore that men of the Imperial Family take consorts as well as a wife. I will marry someone from our Empire but my father is keen for me to take a consort within the next year and I believe if she was a Lodjain noble then I could claim a political success as well as a spiritual one." He could feel himself blushing again and took another sip. "I know its embarassing but I believe this is an opportunity that would be useful to myself in terms of my status at home and to you as you would have a useful asset within a neighbours household."

Rosalie was sat busily typing up some minutes from the ambassadors meeting earlier in the week with several of his staff. The phone indicating it was an official diplomatic call rang "Hello Miss" she said politely, never sure what to call these Knight types. "I am sure the Ambassador would be more than happy to discuss any matters the King deems important.....8am suits just fine. Thank you for the call. Goodbye." She passed the information on to her boss who seemingly was equally surprised by the call.

The next morning Ambassador Yoann Montagne arrived at the King's residence ready for the discussion. Upon reaching the gates he flashed his credentials and allowed the security details to do their work before making his way inside. He waited for the King to arrive for their meeting, stood bowed and then spoke. "Your Majesty I'm sorry that you have my at somewhat of a disadvantage, I've had no chance to prepare for today but rest assured if there is anything I can not do for you today I'll do everything within my power to accommodate as best I can."