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Messages - Libby

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1
International News Networks / Re: Lodja Times
« on: March 24, 2024, 10:37:15 PM »




QUEEN TO PROPOSE TIZER AGREEMENT

Queen Natalya is due to travel to Bakkermaya in the coming week in order to meet with representatives of Bakkermaya and Paracambi in order to formulate what she is called the TIZER agreement. The Queen hopes that the agreement will allow the islands of the Northern Alucard to work together to boost each nations economy as well as support the growth of Water Nomad engagement in the region. "The Tri-Island Zone for Economic Relations will be primarily aimed at working together to ensure we can sustainably use the resources of the region to help all three of us. One issue that we have is that the involvement of the Water Nomad within the region can often make the situation regarding the movement of goods and safety of the environment an issue. So far we've largely turned a blind eye to working together and now we need to start making changes. If I get the deal I would like then I will be pushing to make it easier for business owners to move between the islands and also maximise the way these mainly small businesses can work."

The Queen is also expected to try and get a visit to Lymm into the coming weeks saying, "Lymm sits on the opposite coast of the Alucard and is a nation of great potential. I want to see if we can find ways of encouraging them to become an economic partner in the region and I intend to formally invite them to become a part of TUNA. I also desperately want to view more of Mundus and intend to in the coming months." The Queen is expected to also host one of the summer balls this year outside of Lodja. The Queen explained. "We have seen other nations have great success with diplomacy utilising what could be considered cultural exchanges as a way of forging friendships. I think our ball season is exceptionally well positioned to allow us to do this and while nations we've a friendship with like East Moreland, Neu Urburzis and Ui Cenneslaig it makes sense to try and take the experience to new nations therefore I would like to perhaps go to Tanith or Eborcium. Both are continental neighbours whom we have yet to become close friends."

The Queen is currently in the midst of drafting new legislation which, if it goes ahead, would change the nations education system. "We've allowed standards to be too low for too long and we've placed in the past far too much emphasis on nepotism. This is going to change if our economy is to keep growing. Currently we're seeing it slow as we have a shortage of high end skilled workers. " The Queen has yet to reveal any information on what changes she imagines are needed.

2
Elena, or as she was calling herself for this little task "Lara" , agreed that they'd need someone watching from the river and while she'd have loved some more manpower available it was probably for the best that they handle this with a little more discretion. She had gone out to a local store selling brewing equipment and picked up some of the tools of the wine trade, test equipment for pH balances, alcohol levels and various other things. A nice neat briefcase was a must have in her line of work and so these were now placed into the briefcase which had a small camera stored in the handle. At least she'd look the part. Meeting with Kurt she headed towards the target and hoped the royal would be able to handle the formalities of getting them a look inside, at which point her eyes and the camera could deal with the rest.

3
Convention Centre / Re: Bride of the Emperor - IC Thread
« on: March 24, 2024, 08:13:58 PM »
Angelika had some time on her hands between events. Between making Tik-Toks, going to the gym and generally just taking part in the day to day social life of the camp. She did however find time to get the Kubik family enterprises onto a little task for her. Seeing that one of her rivals was offering people something for free it was time to unleash the hordes. With careful phone calls placed across Mundus as many of the plebs relying on Kubik patronage that had contacts abroad went onto Poppy's website and began ordering the watch. The aim was that the sheer weight of the number needed and the skill required to build them would sap as much of Poppy's time as possible and then put her at a disadvantage, maybe make the world see her as anti-social or even better if she failed to keep to her promise then it would make a poor example. Either way the mischief amused Angelika a little as she saw the Lodjain patronage system swing into overdrive ensuring they did their best to help out their "Lord".

4
Elena Kirilia sipped a coffee while observing the building, "It seems like far too big a target for us to kind of jump in on just the four of us here, especially if Rezakov is off doing whatever. Is there any chance of any back up?" she asked Regina. "Maybe stick something on the river incase someone makes a run for it and perhaps a few extra people who can come in with us, if its a factory of sorts they'll be lots of people and we'll need people to keep an eye on them while we make checks and the like. Add to that if its perfume its likely to be a bomb if something goes wrong. Is there any chance if they deal in wine you can perhaps get me in to have a meeting there." She removed a card holder from her pocket and thumbed through a variety of business cards before settling on a thick creamy one that she handed Regina. "Lara Megeka, Chief Sommelier Peliuk Hotel Resorts" it reported to belong to. It was one of several front companies the Lodjain intelligence community maintained should operations require certain tools. "Maybe say you're my local guide and that I'm looking for a few cases as a sample with a much larger order in future. I can meet and at least get a feel for what they have there. Take things from that?" She added a touch of milk to the coffee. "Failing that we may just need to kind of go in and throw our weight around"

5
Convention Centre / Re: Bride of the Emperor - IC Thread
« on: March 13, 2024, 09:27:22 PM »
The results had not entirely pleased the two Lodjain's, the task being fashion based they had hoped to do so much better and walk away clearly at the top of the rankings. They did their best to seem unaffected though and wished the girls who were leaving the best but with very little sincerity behind the words. Darina meanwhile was relieved, she was not exactly the most fashionable of girls and deemed her skills perhaps a little more practical than creative. That in mind she had breathed a sigh of relief when her result had landed. They returned to their acommodation and updated their families of the goings on. It was Opheilie who was first to post things on social media but having spoken to Angelika first, they made a joint post talking of the fun they'd had with their projects and then giving a link to a website that ran auctions on rare clothing, both had posted their outfits on there with the information of the proceeds being split between the Global Childbirth Initiative and Lukhemia charity that Prince Augustin had helped support. They promised they'd encourage the other girls to do likewise. Each figured that if the contest was popular enough to attract that much attention people would probably love to get to own things they'd seen and helping charities, particularly ones run by their hosts royals was hopefully going to help earn a few extra points.

When news came of Irene's birth right it was Darina who made the first calls, this was the kind of information the Missionara Protectiva would like to know, they kept meticulous records of royal bloodlines and there was every chance that this gem of information would be of interest and by the sounds of it could be kept secret for a while. That being said the Missionara would now be adding notes to family trees even as they spoke.

6
Convention Centre / Re: Niameck Fashion Week 2024 - Socialite's Thread
« on: February 25, 2024, 11:18:20 PM »
It was to be a hectic few days for Stasya, get over to Niameck, do the fashion shows, come back to East Moreland for the Feast of Helus and now head back to Neu Urburzis. She was releaved to have the luxurious royal plane at her disposal. She woke early and found her husband had woken up to. As she sat on the edge of the bed preparing to raise she felt David take hold of her from behind. "You could always just stay here" he said giving a gentle pull to encourage her to stay in bed.

"I could but then I'd not get there and that would mean East Moreland wouldn't be very punctual, and you wouldn't want that would you now" she said in mock of his hatred of ever being late. She did though allow him to pull her back and once she was lying back on the bed he wrapped her up and kissed her. "Look I'm going to have to go" she said as she brushed hair away from her face. "But we've a free weekend when I get back so how about you, me, my family villa on Iskor and that black bikini you like" she teased.

"I've a better idea" David said as he kissed her again. "The island, me, you but no bikini" she returned his kiss but then wriggled free and hopped out of bed leaving her husband lying there.

"Deal" she said with a wink as she disappeared to get ready. Despite being invited David wouldn't be going to Niameck, although he was always smartly dressed and stylish he had little interest in fashion beyond that of the tailors stores close to Embassy Row. Beside following the recent good news about the Borlanders the King would no doubt be busy and so was content to let the Queen and her friends enjoy the revallries such an event no doubt carried.

The flight saw a start to such a thing, with Jasmina Danilov and there friend Arina Pasternak having visited Northfort for the feast they would accompany her to the party.

They arrived with each of them looking forward to an evening of high class partying. Stasya had opted to wear the red dress her protegee Zari had created for their fashion show. Jasmina meanwhile had a classic black dress with Arina opting for a white busniess style suit. "Grab a drink and behave....for now" Stasya informed her friends as she spotted Adelheid and headed over. "Amazing weeks so far." She said as they hugged, "I hope the past few days have been OK, just unfortunate timing with the Feast back home and all that." She explained, she wondered if she should mention the news of Barrens demise but figured neither of them were too concerned about politics. "I must say that Princess Rhiannon will be thrilled to hear this has been a success, I know she'd very proud of her friend Augustin, hopefully next year we can have her come here. She needs to learn that gym wear is not the future" she grinned. "I hopefully have a few surprises for you lined up" She said eagerly linking arms with the Princess and introducing her to the two Lodjain friends she'd brought with her. "Ah, the first is right on cue." She said waving to the smartly suited man across the room. "Princess Adelheid allow me to introduce my vassal"  Stasya said the word ironically "Prince Bartholemew of Semelberg" she embraced the young man.

"Ma'am" the Prince said with a bow to each. "Princess Adelheid thank you for allowing us to attend such a wonderful event. I know that High Princess....I mean Queen Stasya, is keen for Semelberg to get some recognition away from home and I know I could do with some days away from the business of the Charterlands." He explained with a deep exhale, since Stasya had essentially said her family would bankroll the mini-principality he had found himself also drafted into the Charterlands governing system and probably never worked so hard in his life.

"I'm trying to line him and Ariana up" Stasya whispered to Adelheid as they moved away after talking to the Prince, "Unless of course you fancy a crack or are you still pining for that Makar?" She asked.

7
Convention Centre / Re: Niameck Fashion Week 2024 - Showthread
« on: February 25, 2024, 10:24:59 PM »
The Pelafashion Show

While the first two shows of the festival where more about pushing boundaries of fashion and sending messages the Pelafashion show would at its heart be a promotion. The brand was as much now a vehicle to allow the Pelagiya family, and by extension the East Moreland royal family to support various good causes and so there was a need to shift product and that meant bringing eyes to what they were doing.

The show was set up with two large grandstands either side on a long white catwalk with a large video screen at one end and a circular looped walkway that surrounded a kind of small stage area. As the crowd got settled there was a goody bag on the seat of each person. A pair of Pelagiya sunglasses, some lip balm, a brochure for the various good causes Pelagiya had supported over the past twelve months and a pair of drinks pouches, one of gin and tonic, the other of bucks fizz along with a variety of various sachets of fragrances. Once everyone was settled the show began to be fired up. First the room went dark with the only light coming from the screen. "YOU HAVE DONE THESE DEEDS" The screen pronounced and then as music played a montage of the various projects Pelafashion projects ranging from kids getting involved in art, the Global Childbirth Initiative and then students preparing for the show here today. The last minute or so focused on a single student, "Zari" kept flashing up next to the smiling face of a small girl with a pixie hair cut and bright blue eyes. It was clear she was someone important but to those outside the company it meant little. Then the screen went dark, plunging the room into darkness. A spotlight hit the circular stage at the opposite end of the runway and a plume of smoke masked the Morelander musician Frank Turner and his backing band ascending to be stood in the centre of the circle. As soon as the stage hand was sure the stage had been locked in place he gave Frank the nod and the musician sprang into the first song of the show. At the far end of the stage where the video screen was a spotlight snapped on revealing Queen Stasya stood in a figure hugging long red dress, a lengthy split from ankle to hip on one side. From the waist it formed a diamond over her torso finishing high around her neck. A kind of white fur quarter length coat finished off the look. With the poise and elegance of a seasoned model she stood for a moment before the screen behind her turned white and again the name "Zari" appeared. The Queen held out a hand and the young girl featured in the video walked out dressed in a simple black pair of trousers and t-shirt. The Queen took her hand and together they walked down the length of the runway Zari looking much more awkward than the Queen but she knew this was her moment. Her contempories at Pelafashion had voted her the best designer from among their number and so her collection was getting a VIP treatment. The Queen walked the loop around the band and escorted Zari to a seat on a kind of throne that had been set up among the other designers all of whom clapper her into her seat as the youngster blushed. The Queen took off the white fur coat and tossed it to Zari before purposely striding back to the screen just as a 2nd model strode out, this time it was Lodja's Chief Lady in Waiting Jasmina Danilov. The Queen had called in several favours and while the show featured many well known models there was the odd cameo. The first collection of Zari's featured more elegant partywear from the company and once done Frank Turner descended back into the depths of the understage. The video screen kicked on again as this time it showed the words "WORLDS COLLIDE"

The music stage fizzed as the stage ascended again, this time Biffy Clyro in place. Back stage there was frantic changing going on and even a clanging of metal. The video finished with the flags of East Moreland and Lodja side by side and this time it was the famed actress Krista Rosendahl-Sunbrek who stepped out. She was wearing a mini skirt made out of chain mail with a long elegant tailed style short jacket above it. The cuffs of the jacket also trimmed in chain mail, she carried a Norse Axe casually on her shoulder. The band played once more as the various models walked down the runway and back off each outfit inspired by some aspect of each nation the Queen considered home. There was though a hitch backstage. The Queen was due to go on again but the string on her corset made of swords was sticking. The stage manager was frantically trying to tie and untie knots but in the nick of time Stasya was sent back on. As she exited the lights again went dark and a new video played.

This time it was all of the Isle of Iskor showing its beautiful sandy beaches, the lush green forests and people having fun. "ISKOR STYLE", the chords of Grace Potter, one of the Queens favourite bands played as the singer and her band ascended to the stage. This time it was King David's cousin Princess Lily who was first out, the tall cousin was wearing a smart pair of khaki shorts and a bright blue v shaped tie top. Next it was Duchess Anna Davidson of Bakkermaya wearing a kind of floral pattern sarong dress and an insanely large brimmed hat. The final walk of the show though was Queen Stasya again, this time in a black swimsuit with a flag bearing her coat of arms printed on it. As she walked backstage each of the models who had walked reappeared wearing their favourite outfit from the show along with the musicians. They lined the stage, took a bow and the the Queen returned with sixteen people following her wearing plain white t-shirts and black jeans. The Queen had a microphone. "Ladies and Gentleman, esteemed guests. We hope you enjoyed our 2024 showcase. Tomorrow these 16 wonderful teenagers will be hosting a pop up store in the plaza near the opera house. This is your chance to not just be part of 2024 fashion week but to create the stars of 2025. They are the future of our wonderful industry. For tonight though its time to go get a glass of bubbles and enjoy the Pelafashion After Party with each of these wonderful artists playing even more for us. See you there."

8
Convention Centre / Re: Niameck Fashion Week 2024 - Invitations
« on: February 13, 2024, 11:59:10 PM »

Dear Adelheid

As you no doubt expected I will be attending the fashion week. I would appreciate if you would make arrangements for Pelafashion to host several events.

1. I am currently currating a collection of womens fashion to be launched as our summer collection. I would therefore require a runway and a stage for a band to perform on. The show will run for around 90 minutes. I have invited around 200 guests of my own and would appreciate if you would distribute another 200 to people you think would like to attend.

2. I have a team of great young designers working for us since we became a foundation that utilises all our profits to fund creative outlets for youngsters within the fashion industry. As such I would like to have a small show of around an hour highlighting their designs and works. I will be walking during this show and would like to offer you the opportunity to join in as well.

3. If possible could you find a store unit, preferably somewhere close to the shows but in a building that could be described as "looking historical", think about it being something that my husband would appreciate. I would like to host a pop up store there for small labels from East Moreland giving those entering the industry a chance to make their mark.

Finally I would of course like for us to catch up while I am in Niameck and should things go according to plan I will be joined by at least some of the Lodjain Ladies in Waiting and hopefully Queen Natalya. I'm therefore hopeful that on one of the evenings you would join us for dinner.

I'm looking forward to the event and looking forward to seeing you in person.

Best Wishes

Stasya

9
Convention Centre / Re: Bride of the Emperor - IC Thread
« on: February 13, 2024, 11:05:04 PM »
The two Lodjain girls couldn't help but grin at each other. You didn't grow up in Lodjain high society without picking up both an insight into fashion and some workable skills with a needle and thread. Ophelia went off in search of some silk, some ink and a ruler. Once she'd acquired those things she rummaged through her own travel trunk looking for a particular dress she owned. It was somewhat of a sacrifice but she carefully unpicked the stitching and then having carefully shortened it from ankle length to knee length traced the outline onto the silk allowing her to effectively stitch the template back together in the knowledge that she'd get at least a half decent form fitting dress that would go some way to showing off her shapely legs. She carefully stored the parts, went to get dinner and then slept ready to begin again in the morning.

Angelika meanwhile had gone in search of cotton, the colour was going to be irrelevant and then it was off to find as many books as possible. She had helped out at University making the odd costume for fancy dress nights out. The shape of the dress was not really going to be the most important but by the time night fell she found herself in a similar position as her countrymen. As the sun came up they meet for breakfast as they had every morning since they'd been here and a quick videocall was made to someone they knew would be in the no. "Your Majesty" they both greeting Queen Stasya. Over the next half an hour they talked her through their ideas and she did her best to offer them advice. Having wished them well they both got back to work.

Having first sewn her dress together Ophelie took a ruler and ever so carefully drew five parrallel lines that ran in a looping curl around the dress in such a manner as to extenuate her figure. It was then a relatively easy job of transcribing musical notes onto it. To the unmusical of those who would be watching it would seem to just be a musically themed dress however to those in the know the notes would spell out the opening of the Neu Urburzis national anthem. It was Ophelie's hope that the dress would show not just her physical beauty but also her passion for music and a respect towards the nation that she would hopefully become Empress of. On the next sewing machine Angelika busied herself sewing her cotton creation together. Next she took a fine glue and delicately placed pages trimmed from books in two rows along certain lines she'd laid out with a fine silver thread. Once she'd done the dress looked like some strange scaled monstrosity with the pages forming thick rigid flaps. This though was probably only the half way point of her design. As the day began to see the sunset she began the process using scissors to ever so carefully cut strips that ran 9/10th of the way up each page essentially making them into thin strips held together by a border glued to the dress. By the time she had done the dress had lost all sense of stiffness and now resembled more of a layered fringe dress with the pages of her favourite book. Now everytime she moved the pages twisted and twirled in the breeze her graceful walk would create.  Both girls were satisfied with their attempts.

Darina meanwhile would have no idea what to do. The closest she'd ever come to high fashion was stitching together a ghillie suit during the war in Kaitaine. She didn't think such a garment would be what was required for the fashion week. She however had a secret weapon. A phone call to the Chapterhouse in Ui Cenneslaig she could unleash the skills of Missionara. It seemed to her that there was nothing that those geeks didn't know and before long she'd got one of them talking her through step by step how to tye dye fabric. The red of the Honored Matres first, she then used a second dipping using green, the colour of her Truthsayers. The fabric was left to hang over night and dry and in the morning the white cotton was now a swirling pattern of bright red and dark green. The cotton was dry and back on a video call with the Missionara's experts on traditional fashion and having acquired a mannequin a similar size to herself they began the wrapping to make a kind of outline of a female toga. Next there was endless pinning and stitching, she was worried about messing it up but as the girls on the video call told her it was just like stitching a wound up she soon found it getting simpler. With the folds and curves now secured in place what was left was to add a Bene Gesserit spin on the Neu Urbruzis design. She ended the evening following instructions of how to use the material that was left to make a flowing cape similar to those worn by the Truthsayers as they had fought in the deserts of the homeland. Its hood was deep and it would, if the wind permitted, bellow beautifully behind her. She was satisfied with the work and wished the Missionara a good night and then went back to sleep still unable to get the red tint out of her hand from the dye but satisfied that she'd learned a new skill.

10
Diplomacy and Events / Re: Art and Diplomacy (Lodja and NU + maybe others)
« on: February 13, 2024, 09:40:10 PM »
Elena Kirilia was not your typical member of the Lodjain intelligence service. She was not a University graduate, nor had she spent any major time in the military or police force. She had been a paramedic who five years ago had won a couple of martial arts competitions. It had surprised her when one day a gentleman from the national intelligence agency had approached her to join up and drawn to the excitement she had jumped at the chance imagining she would be like some female James Bond. That though had soon not been the case as instead she had become a member of a team that would get involved in hot spots around the world where Lodja's interests where potentially at stake. She was supposed to be the one responsible for ensuring any injuries the team incurred were taken care of but soon that meant she learned some of the craft that went with intelligence gathering. Now she was being sent to help track down Hamsik.

She had arrived in Neu Urburzis in the evening and made her way to the hotel that Rezakov had booked for her. She settled in and just after midnight he arrived to bring her fully up to speed. She had with her a file, it contained the name of four individuals that they'd already worked out had some prolonged contact with Hamsik and were now living in Neu Urburzis. "If your contact can stick someone on watching each of those I'd be very happy" She explained as she did her best to enjoy a bowl of some average room service mac and cheese.

After a short sleep, the jetlag still to kick in, she made her way to the little cafe at the end of the road to meet Rezakov and Regina. After brief introductions Elena outlined her intentions. "I'm here to follow up the leads that hopefully my colleague got to you when I arrived. We believe that perhaps one of these individuals would have been in receipt of the paintings smuggled out the Palace, arranged for it to be sold here and then some of the proceeds sent to Hamsik somehow to ensure he can live the life of luxury in exile somewhere. We need to work out which of them may know something and then if need be how we get them back to Lodja. I'm hoping you may have a lead for me to start on with them."

11
Diplomacy and Events / Re: The Heptarchy and Queendom
« on: February 03, 2024, 06:29:24 PM »
Alyona had only a vague idea about the concept before Henrik had explained. "Its an idea similar to how things work here, only the gender dynamic is reversed, here a woman may take multiple husbands to ensure that her family build strong bonds with other families that share the same interests or influence. I don't believe in your religious take on the world and I would never turn my back on Sessifet." She wasn't overly religious but she did know that being seen to turn her back on the Goddess would be perhaps the final nail in her families collective metaphorical coffin. "If that rules me out then I must accept that." She shrugged her shoulders. "I hope that it doesn't, I have no idea if you're someone that I'll fall in love with but I think you're potentially someone I will enjoy spending time with and I do find you attractive. For a Lodjain that could well be enough. I'm also hopeful of one day having a family but I would like them to know both cultures if we had them. Now if you still want to explore things what would be the next steps?"

12
Diplomacy and Events / Re: The Heptarchy and Queendom
« on: January 20, 2024, 10:54:49 PM »
Svetlana was pleased that she appeared to have won herself a place in Henrik's affection, it would potentially be something useful to her or her family going forward. "As an heir to the title Duchess I'm unable to just be a consort for a foreign prince......doesn't mean we can't do consort things occasionally. As for visiting I'm sure a tour of your new palace wing would be fun. I'll talk with the Queen about me being allowed next time I have a long weekend, she doesn't generally stop us doing as we wish on our downtime just so long as we don't bring her into disrepute. Hanging out with a neighbouring Prince is certainly going to be something she approves of. I will though see you later." She left him as he made his way to find Alyona.

Alyona was not sure whether she would see Henrik again that night. He had of course been receiving quiet a bit of attention but when she saw him approaching she felt a sense of relief. When he asked her to join him for a drink of course she agreed. She offered him her arm and the two made their way through to where drinks were being served. Alyona helped herself to a glass of wine while waiting for Henrik to get his and once both had beverages made their way towards a quiet corner. Alyona found a seat and settled down hoping, at least for now, they could be alone. "I'm going to have to start with a confession." She thought Henrik probably knew. "I was told that there was a chance that you'd want to spend time with me as you're looking for a consort of some kind, I'm not sure on the exact truth in that but I want you to know I've genuinely enjoyed spending time with you tonight."

13
Diplomacy and Events / Re: The Heptarchy and Queendom
« on: January 16, 2024, 11:31:43 PM »
Svetlana dutifully turned and halted the mass of young women keen to be seen with a Crown-Prince. For many of them this was like a bonus of the summer balls, like a special edition and none of them wanted to miss out. Svetlana had half expected this as she was a seasoned veteran of the scene and so she removed one of the small cards from her own little holder and began adding names to it for Henrik. First there was the Queen who as host was obviously the first, there was then Alyona who was the focus of their current diplomatic efforts. She then filled the remaining eight spots with the names of all four Ladies in Waiting first, then the wife of their host  Borislav Nadjinik, his 16 year old daughter, a random girl who Svetlana took the name of because she had an ugly necklace on and then finally her own name again. "That will be everyone" she held an apologetic hand up as she moved into the hall. She slipped the card into Henrik's hand discreetly and then stood back to watch as the Queen and Henrik began to dance. Natalya was a good dancer and seemed to enjoy their turn around the dancefloor. As the music stopped their was an almost seamless swapping of partners and Alyona took the Queen's place. As was usually the case the musicians played a few bars of the next tune while partners got sorted and then with a triple tap of their conductors wand it was a signal they were about to begin.

Alyona appeared having sat out the first dance and was pleased to see Henrik. "You dance well" she said as she took hold of his hand. "You can hold me a little closer, I'm not going to break" she said taking a small step closer in. The music began and she allowed the Crown-Prince to guide her around as it had been clear Henrik would need little if any guidance in how to dance. "I'm rather enjoying this" she said about half way through. "Do you get events like this in Eboracum often?" She asked trying to learn a little. "I hear you're about to get an important job and a fancy home or something. Is that right?" She was disappointed that no sooner had he responded than the music began to come to an end and the whole partner shuffle began again.

This time it was Svetlana who appeared. "You finding her nice?" she asked as she took hold of his hand. She stepped even closer to him than Alyona had their bodies now pushed against each other she ensured the Crown-Prince couldn't loosen their stance even taking had hand and putting it much lower than he had intended. "The room you've been given tonight is next door to mine" she said as they began to dance, "If you need anything.....anything at all I'm able to sort things for you" she said and discreetly slipped a key into his pocket. "Just let yourself in and let me know what you need." She whispered into his ear as the dance came to an end. There was then a procession of other girls until he'd fulfilled his obligations and the two joined up again. "So should I arrange for Alyona to perhaps come visit your new home or has some other lady caught your eye." She asked him as they rejoined, Svetlana trying to get closer than even previously. The formal part of the dance was done now and Svetlana gave the guest a choice, "Your not obliged to anyone but it would be rude to slip away just now, you can grab a drink in the bar area" she pointed through the doors, "You could maybe find Alyona or just carry on dancing. I'd be happy to dance with you." She waited for his decision.

14
Diplomacy and Events / Re: The Heptarchy and Queendom
« on: January 14, 2024, 10:55:36 PM »
Alyona chuckled at Henrik's attempt at humour. It must be awkward being the only person in the room who knew nobody. As he asked the Lodjain balls and the issues around them Alyona did her best to avoid blurting out that she had not really been a big attender this past season because of her families situation. "We do have them" she reached down to the clutch purse under her seat. She removed a small little white card with numbers one to ten on them. "They generally only work for the first ten dances and then it becomes a little free for all" She explained showing the Prince the card that she knew every woman in the room would have. Hers was held in a small silver case that gripped the card and opened out, there was a pencil slotted into the spine. "We have the balls every summer as a celebration of the Goddess' favourite time of year and as a kind of right of passage. They mark that a girl is now ready to be married and a chance to explore the market......I beg your pardon." She realised she had perhaps spoke in a way a foreigner wouldn't quiet understand. "You see a Lodjain girl can have multiple husbands, as the Goddess did. The dances are a chance for her to meet lots of young men and determine which, if any, she has an interest in that may go further. Back in the past, I mean around 100 years ago, fathers would then arrange their daughters first marriage and she'd take it from there. The practice kind of died out a little except for among the wealthiest families, those most religious and those with good connections. You see we're emerging from a period of our faith not having really embraced fully what it should mean, now under Her Divine Majesty, many traditions are returning." She explained.

Just then the dinner arrived and the conversation became difficult with plates and cutlery rattling as a lamb leg steak and vegetables were served up. "She's a sweet girl" Svetlana said eager to ensure the success of their evening. "You know what she was talking about in terms of traditions?" She asked and then answered before he could. "In Lodja we are a people devoted to great beauty. Its the ultimate gift from Sessifet, a sign we are loved. We cultivate it in everything, art, music, poetry, our style even" She gave the folds of her pale blue dress a flap. "We believe therefore someone beautiful like yourself is marked by the Goddess. That means it is peoples duty to celebrate that beauty." She placed a hand on his leg "If you'd been a Lodjain noble you'd have no need for picking from a list. Remember we don't see monogamy the same way many nations do. Even if you choose to pursue Alyona as a consort you can always recast your net and you'll find it likely to be full." She left her hand on his thigh a moment as she waited for a steward to place some carrot on her plate. She thanked him and picked up her cutlery to begin eating.

Between breaks in the meal Alyona did her best to engage with Henrik again and as the last of the cheese-board was cleared away the Queen stood. "I am delighted that you have all been able to attend. We had not expected the Crown-Prince's stay to extend to more than a day but we are so happy that it did." She gave Henrik a smile as the room gave a polite round of applause. "Today we have reached several agreements about a future path his homeland and ours will take and I am excited about where they go. We intend for them to be underwritten by the existing bodies such as TUNA that we are proud to be a member of however should that fail the Crown-Prince has my promise that we shall have just as strong a friendship. Crown-Prince Henrik is tonight our honoured guest and I hope that you will all make him welcome. It is my hope that while he arrived in Lodja as a continental neighbour he will leave as our friend and that is down to you all." There was another polite round of applause. "I believe that ballroom next door is ready. Perhaps if I could ask His Highness for the first dance of the evening." Jasmina rather ceremoniously brought out the Queen's own dance card, the vast majority already filled in with the family of their host and various ministers. There was of course the first dance empty and Jasmina waited for the inevitable acceptance as to do otherwise could cause a rather awkward political incident. The Queen made her way down one side of the room and into the ballroom where a small band awaited. Seeing the Queen they stood, bowed, and then resumed their seats giving their instruments a final little test. Satisfied they began to play. Several guests who had not been at the dinner were already in the ballroom and as the music played began to play. A gaggle of girls thrust their dance cards towards Henrik as he followed the Queen, Alyona among them. The Queen waited though patiently knowing that the band was playing a tune they could easily loop just in case such a delay had happened.

15
Convention Centre / Re: Bride of the Emperor - IC Threat
« on: January 14, 2024, 09:18:19 PM »
Darina arrived at the site carrying a tactical gear bag and a huge backpack full of clothes and a few luxuries away from home. She looked at the site and wondered if she had arrived at the right place as to her it looked more like some kind of prison camp than a place a future Empress would based at. She had debated with the Missionara back home about what to wear, she'd suggested wearing a Truthsayer uniform but the wise scholars of her faith had said that would be inappropriate as she only had honorary Truthsayer status. Instead she had donned the red uniform of the Honored Matres. She made her way inside and found a bedroom and began unpacking. It had been hard to know what to bring and so she'd brought everything from sports stuff to ball gowns. She found a place for each and then phoned her  family back in Kaitaine.

As one would expect with the grand-daughter of the Lord of the Conclave from Lodja Angelika Kubik received a escort from the local embassy. She had arrived with a fleet of wheeled suitcases and it needed a few trips from the embassy staff to help her get her things in and settled. Almost immediately she took out her phone and began giving people a 360 degree panoramic tour of the compound, "Not exactly where I would expect a future empress to be but hey I'm here now." She filmed herself saying before putting the mobile away.

The last of the Lodjains to arrive was Ophelie Danilov. It was clear Jasmina had learned a thing or two about media management in her time since being Chief Lady in Waiting. She had accompanied her sister to the entrance along with their close family friend Queen Stasya of East Moreland. It just so happened that the Queen was in the country looking at potential locations for after-show parties for the fashion week later in the year and Jasmina, just so happened," to persuade her to attend this. Ophelie's outfit had also been selected to send a message or two. The dress was, as royal ladies in Lodja wore, a pale blue however this had been carefully selected to not be the same shade worn by the actual royals. The dress finished just above the knee and was hemmed with a strip of gold, rather than the Queen of Lodja's silver, the hem depicted a series of rabbits, each the size of a thumbnail, that seemed to make a pattern as though they were running round the bottom of the dress. Stasya and Jasmina gave Ophelia a hug and then the candidate went inside keen to find a bed. She was slightly put out that she wouldn't have her own room but she was kind of friends with Angelika and so sought out the other girl and soon had claimed the bed next to her.

16
The discovery of Hamsik having some kind of connection to this suddenly made it way above Rezakov's pay grade, the problem was he was the only Lodjain on the case. What had begun as a simple case of track down a missing painting now seemed to be turning into some kind of espionage thing, especially with murder and terrorism seemingly being tied to the case. "You'll have to give me a moment to check in, things have changed somewhat" he explained as he picked up his mobile phone and headed for a quiet spot in the airships gondola. He dialled the number he had been given and Nikanor Matveev answer. Nikanor was what was best described as a desk minder. He was a member of the national intelligence service whose job was straight forward, sit at a desk in the agencies HQ and answer the phone following several flow diagrams to get the caller to the right person. It wasn't his dream job but he'd only been in the agency two years. The night shifts were actually OK, the phones hardly ever rang and when they did it was often just necessary to leave a message for some higher up. The call began in a similar fashion, the questions being designed so that anyone within ear shot of Rezakov would think he was merely discussing an expected delivery of something he'd ordered. As Rezakov gave the name of the shipper as "Hamsik Cargo" and that his own name was "Leopold Rezakov" was enough to send a cold chill running down Matveev's spine. "Shit" he audibly muttered as he frantically began tapping on the other phone on his desk.

"What is it?" Vaska Bogdanov, the head of the team tracking down those who had fled Lodja. He had been woken up and was determined that if it was nothing he'd be sending the caller to some crappy duty somewhere like Hygelac.

"Sir, I've an asset on the phone. Thinks he's a link to Leopold Hamsik." Instantly Bogdanov was awake, he left his wife in bed and hurried downstairs getting dressed as he went. By the time he reached his car he'd just about zipped up his trousers. It took 12 minutes to get to the office and a further three to get Rezakov back on the phone. "Rezakov its been agreed you work for me now. We're part of the National Intelligence Agency that is hunting the treasonous members of the government and military and you've just hit the jackpot. One of our specialists, Tatiana Kovalchuk, will be with you tomorrow morning until then help the locals as much as you can."

"Undertsood sir. I'll do my best." Rezakov said before returning to Regina. "They're sending a more specialist agent out, we need to meet her tomorrow morning I've to send her where best to meet.....assuming we've a plan where we are heading?" He asked unsure how their discovery changed things.



Bogdanov had two further calls to make now. The first was to the Isle of the Goddess to get things rolling there and the other was to the Morelanders. If Hamsik was traceable you could be certain they'd want to know, after all they'd had their embassy attacked and it was unlikely they'd let that lie. Under the CNN network Bogdanov made an arrangement for an online meeting with a counterpart over in Northfort.

17
Diplomacy and Events / Re: The Heptarchy and Queendom
« on: January 11, 2024, 10:55:52 PM »
Alyona had been rather out of the loop of Lodjain social affairs for a while. At one point she had been destined to have married into a royal line descended from Queen Sonya but then her father had, at least in Alyona's opinion, gone insane. He'd got in with a group who had sought to exploit the marine life of the islands of Lodja and imprisoned beluga whales to farm them for various meat markets. It was a project that was fool-hardy even before it was discovered by the military who mistook it for a terrorist HQ. Now her father sat in a Gaia prison cell serving 10 years for various crimes. That had been enough to see Alyona's carefully crafted social standing fall apart and now for the last 18 months she'd been basically an outsider to the high society balls and banquets of Lodja. She had even been surprised when the call to attend this had been received and then a little excited when given a brief outline of what the Queen and Ladies in Waiting had been planning. She cast her eyes over the foreign Prince. He was certainly handsome and she was flattered that such a man had shown interest in her. Alyona though was still unsure whether she was willing to be the mans consort just because he was a Prince. "Thank you Your Highness" she said as the Prince poured her some wine. She was though unsure what she could tell him that Svetlana couldn't. "I would imagine that we'll have a lovely dinner and then they'll be dancing, lots of dancing until the sun comes up. I would though expect Prince Henrik you'll be doing a lot of dancing." She turned and looked down the long row of tables, there were already many young women glancing at the Eboracum heir. "I think you've grabbed the attention of many of the young ladies." She figured that she should perhaps take her best shot at this point, "I wonder if I can persuade you to give me at least one dance....I can maybe teach you some Lodjain steps....as  a thank you for your kindness?"

18
Diplomacy and Events / Re: Art and Diplomacy (Lodja and NU + maybe others)
« on: December 31, 2023, 11:43:41 PM »
Rezakov had never travelled on airship before and wasn't quiet sure he was going to find the experience useful. What was wrong with helicopters and planes? He kept his thoughts on transportation to himself however. The tablet was full of names that made very little sense to him but then again the task had changed dramatically since he had been dispatched. What should have been a simple trip to check on some art work now had seemingly turned into a global smuggling and espionage adventure. He would clearly need to pass these details up stream to his nations own intelligence networks as there would be little he could do here in Neu Urburzis. He was about to give up hope on the list when he spotted a transaction. It seemed someone who had the phone had been overly charitable. "Here" he said pointing to one of the transations so Regina could see it. "This is a bit weird. I've no idea who that its" He said pointing to the name of the payer, a name that sounded very Urburzisian (???) but was unfamiliar to him. "But, the Moratev Collective, thats a name that rings a bell. It was a charity that hosted celebrity auctions. You know the kind of thing like a ticket to a royal ball or a pair of footballers boots etc. The Collective then syphoned that money to a variety of good causes. They've sold various things connected to Stasya Pelagiya in the past. The thing is, its Honorary President was Leopold Hamsik, the former husband of Queen Klara. It had the vast majority of its assets seized following the civil war, especially when it was found Hamsik had syphoned off sums to his own slush fund. Now what makes this interesting is Hamsik escaped at the end of the civil war. No one has seen him since but it seems he maybe is still accessing funds. He'd have had a chance to steal artworks during the war and if he was planning something beyond. But who is that other name? We should pay them a visit."


19
Diplomacy and Events / Re: The Heptarchy and Queendom
« on: December 27, 2023, 09:27:32 PM »
Naturally Natalya was only too happy to add the wording that the Crown-Prince requested as after all it showed the Lodjains in a light that was positive and who didn't want people thinking well of their own nation.  "Of course we can amned this however you think works best. I've no arguements and we can have our two nations press offices release the statement as soon as you're ready to depart."



When the Crown-Prince returned things did not go as the Queen had hoped. Natalya was slightly surprised with where they now found themselves. "I'm sorry if you feel this is a slight." Natalya said after an awkward pause. "The problem we have is two fold. First most girls without some kind of ulterior motive won't be willing to be callled a Consort. Remember here women may take multiple husbands. Being tied as a consort means no influential marriage and as such they have potential problems within their own family heritage. You are asking these girls to give a lot up. However I suspect if you meet Alyona you will be won over. Now as for Svetlana and Sabina.....well Svetlana can speak for herself. I will however be willing to put this to Sabina."

Svetlana had stood quietly by, she placed a hand gently on Henrik's arm. "I am flattered you would want me as your consort. My duty is however to the Queen and to my family. I'm going to one day inherit the Schnoor family estates and titles and I can't risk that." She was disappointed a little she liked Henrik. "I am still however committed to making your stay here as successful as possible......and as happy" she added hoping to have not caused too much offence.

"For now" Natalya resumed her control of the discussion. "We will make arrangements for you to meet Alyona and also in the coming days Sabina, if she agrees."



Several hours later the guests had arrived for a state banquet. Jasmina had hastily expanded the guest lists and the household kitchen had cursed her name but dutifully complied. A series of long tables had been arranged. The head table of course was made up of the various great names of the Queendom with Henrik sat between the Queen and Svetlana.The head table had from it three long tables running at right angles and Alyona had been strategically placed to be sat just in front of Henrik. Prior to the dinner starting Jasmina had briefed the young lady who had reacted with both nerves and excitement. As the dinner got under way with a starter of Pelmeni, dumplings filled with meat which for a luxurious touch, had a a drizzle of truffle butter and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. As had been pre-arranged by Jasmina the young girl had been missed out in terms of being served wine and an equally well briefed Henrik was able to step in as the chivalrous gentleman, if he elected to of course.

20
Character Guides / Re: Lodjains
« on: December 25, 2023, 11:03:05 PM »

Alyona Feofilakt
Olivia Dunne

Born in 2003 Alyona is the youngest of the three Feofilakt sisters. Her older siblings, Ivana and Suma, are married to important nobles in the North of the Queendom where the family are from. During her childhood she spent a significant amount of time with Radislav Emerenko, the great grandson of Queen Sonya. In 2013 the family arranged a marriage between the two.

At school she was considered a pretty above average student and was part of the schools netball team.

In 2021 the family name took a beating when her father was involved in a consortium that had been trapping dolphins and whales and keeping them in farms. As a result the family have become slightly ostricised from high society to the extent that in 2023 Radislav cancelled the engagement. Since then the family, now with her father in prison, have sought to find ways to gain some prestige.

21
Character Guides / Re: Lodjains
« on: December 25, 2023, 10:22:35 PM »

Katjusha Zaytsev,
Nicola Cavanis

Katjusha was born in 2003 into the prominent Zaytsev family. She is the daughter of Yuri Zaytsev who was the younger brother of Duke Leonard Zaytsev. She has several younger siblings. As a child her parents shunned the mainstream education instead preferring to send her to a forest school. As a result she was given an education based on activities within the forest and play. As a result she's become rather an outdoorsy person.

In 2021 when the civil war broke out her uncle, Leonard Zaytsev, was one of the nobles who supported Leopold Hamsik who carried out attacks that killed Queen Klara. Her father however remained steadfastly loyal and went out of his way to aid the Intelligence services of the various nations involved in supporting the Queendom. Despite this at the end of the war the family were considered outcasts by many of the nobility and are desperate to earn back some respect.

in 2023 Queen Natalya offered her a position at the Royal Preparation Academy but she turned it down believing that it would take at least five years for the family to see any return. Instead she has been accepted into the Army as a member of the Mechanised Cavalry.

22
Character Guides / Re: Lodjains
« on: December 25, 2023, 09:30:16 PM »

Klavdiya Pavlovsky
Olivia Ponton

Klavdiya was born in 2004 in the small town of Dubenki which sits some 25km to the West of Gaia. Her family own a lovely piece of real estate on the edge of the town known as the Forest Palace. The family had one time had a great reputation for being wealthy however since her father Ruben became the leader of the family the fortunes of the family have fallen. As a gambler and drunk he has squandered a lot of the families wealth.

 Klavdiya was educated at the local girls grammar school. She was very active in the school musical and performance groups and excelled at ballroom dancing. In 2016 her and her cousin Ivan were crowned national junior champions and a year later defended their title. As a result she was offered a chance to attend the National Academy of Art and Dance. She was also sponsered by a well known dance company and appeared as a model and face on much of their publications.

In 2022 she was offered the chance to continue her studies at degree level and accepted. The high fees at the school have been paid by her model shoots and working in occasional dance videos. In 2023 summer ball season she was passed over by many young noble man because of her fathers growing debts. While normally a girl of her beauty and connections would be inundated with marriage proposals she recieved just one which she rejected.

23
Diplomacy and Events / Re: The Heptarchy and Queendom
« on: December 24, 2023, 06:08:29 PM »
Natalya thought Henrik was making some very valid points regarding their diplomatic side of these talks. "I think we can agree that further meetings should take place. I think however we should release a joint statement saying that when we meet with you and TUNA we are going to, as a mere failsafe, form an agreement on matters between Lodja and Eboracium. That way I can state to the Conclave that we have made some progress, you get to return home with something and that makes your father happy I hope. Then we have a foundation that we can build on when we arrange the TUNA meeting. Perhaps just a short statement saying.

Quote from: Statement Proposal

Following a meeting between the Queendom of Lodja and The Heptarchy of Eboracum the two nations have agreed to work together to forge mutually co-operative ties in the future in the realms of trade, transport, security and various other endeavours. While talks are productive the two parties believe that the aims of the two nations will be best served seeking co-operation through TUNA and as such Eboracum will be seeking talks with the organisation and Lodja shall work to ensure the membership are receptive to the approach. The future of Eboracum and Lodjain relations will be strengthened either through the medium of TUNA or if needed seperately.

Both parties are delighted with the initial talks and are hopeful of a great oucome in the coming months

The Queen then handed the document she proposed to Henrik. "We will need though a few moments to discuss amongst ourselves your other matter, we need to consider what approach we take. Svetlana perhaps you can take Henrik for a tour of the estate while we organise a few things."

"Of course your Divine Majesty." Svetlana stood and extended a hand to Henrik. "If you'd care to follow me Prince" she waited for him to stand and then lead him out the room walking a few steps ahead of him still holding his hand. As they left she turned and took him along the corridors which were festooned in art and scultpure. "So Your Highness I hope you don't mind me asking but a handsome prince like yourself must literally have girls throwing themselves at you. I know in Lodja a handsome Prince would be drowning in noble girls at our balls. Yet here you are asking our Queen to play match-maker. Is there some cultural thing we don't know about that makes Eboracumian ladies blind." She asked.

Meanwhile in the room Natalya and the three remaining Ladies began scheming. "Such a shame he's not Lodjain" Natalya began. "Now assuming Svetlana hasn't taken him on a tour of her bed chambers we need to think how to handle this. I think this is a useful tool and an opportunity to get some strong foundations in our neighbours household. I mean one day he'll be Emperor and then we'd have a friend in his house....or bed. Its almost like a less organic version of Stasya and David but on this occasion we aren't going to be getting a high status noble. I mean while I'm sure they'll be many girls up for the job, a chance to basically be a royal, live a life of luxury I think the idea of eventually playing second....or even third fiddle isn't going to go down well with the bigger families. So anyone suggest anyone?"

Jasmina was perhaps the most well connected of the group in terms of the movers and shakers within Lodjain society. "The Pavlovsky family for a start. Klavdiya turned 19 this summer and is a beautiful young lady. Her father though is a drunk and gambles far too much. Rumour has it that the Forest Palace they own is going to be sold to pay off the Lord's debts."

"Keep me posted on that Palace." Natalya said, "I like that place and if we've a chance to acquire it then we can have some awesome parties there."

"I would think Klavdiya would expect that the rumours would be enough to put off the potential suitors she'd otherwise get." Jasmina was tapping away on her phone. "Apparently she had only one marriage proposal this summer season which is insane."

"Mark it as a possibility." Natalya responded as Jasmina scribbled it down.

"What about the Zaytsev family?" Tonya pitched in. "The main branch of the family went against Queen Klara but the smaller part of the family remained loyal. They've a desire to show loyalty and something like this allows them to help Queen Natalya out and then gives Henrik a family that was once well connected, it will also marginalise the main branch and mean that Yuri Zaytsev would likely become the defacto leader of that family ensuring its loyalty. I think Katjusha is single, she's 20 and I hear that she turned down the new academy because she intended to join the Army in order to try and get the family back into favour."

"Excellent prospect" Natalya said, "I think Yuri Zaytsev has also petitioned me in the past to find a suitable husband for his older daughter, this could perhaps be a way to show some support for him."

"Alyona Feofilakt" Zhenya suddenly announced. "If you remember last summer she was caught up in that scandal of her father being involved in the whale farm thing. She got a lot of hassle online and she had been engaged to one of the great-grandsons of Queen Sonya. That's been cancelled. She's kind of now in a little bit of a limbo. Her family isn't hated but isn't respected. The Feofilakts are kind of being given a wide berth in high society. Suddenly having their youngest daughter tied up with a future Emperor is going to help them."

"Interesting I didn't know she'd had her engagement broke off." Natalya watched as Jasmina wrote a few things down. "Its 10am. I say we've realistically 8 hours before dinner tonight with Henrik. Lets see if we can't get at least one of them here to meet him and get the ball rolling. Jasmina thats over to you."

"No problem" Jasmina exited and began making the phone calls. It didn't take her long to track down all three girls and get their responses, all of them knew this was a golden opportunity not just for their families but for the Queendom. Beside Jasmina has done a great job on promoting Henrik and all the girls seemed rather intrigued.



4pm

Svetlana has finished her walk around the Palace with Henrik and now returned him to see the Queen who once Henrik was sat comfortably dismissed all the Ladies in Waiting. "While you've been away we've been rather busy." She giggled a little. "We've made some phone calls and we have three good candidates for your proposal of being consort. Now of course they could easily say no and I will not order them to do it, I don't think morally that would be acceptable nor is it what you want. I have however arranged for them to join us for dinner. We've Klavdiya Pavlovsky, she's 19 and while exceptionally beautiful there is an issue, her father is in debt and I think Klavdiya would see being consort as a way of wiping that shame from her family. Next we have Katjusha Zaytsev, she's 20 and a very sweet girl. Her family were torn a little apart during our civil war. The family want back in the royal good books and I think she would see this as a duty that could help her do that and ensure her famil honour is restored. Finally we have Alyona Feofilakt, was very highly regarded both in terms of beauty and family connections. Her engagement was cancelled to a Prince by descent after her father was caught up in some conspiracy. Now while each of these girls has families less than pristine they are the ones that we think you'll find beautiful enough to want to share your bed but also likely to agree to be a consort rather than wife and to do so in quick time. Is there any that you wish us to introduce you to first?"

24
Diplomacy and Events / Re: The Heptarchy and Queendom
« on: December 22, 2023, 11:45:47 PM »
Natalya found Henrik rather amusing. His awkwardness combined with the fact he was rather handsome somehow for a moment made her consider perhaps negotiating some kind of arrangement between herself and Henrik but that would never work. While it was clear Sessifet had blessed this man it was also clear that he had turned his back on the Goddess, plus she would be no simple consort. "In terms of a railway network there are special provisions in our agreement with Aosta. There are special tax free trade zones along the route. I suspect that should you wish to be added to this then you need to be open to that. If that is the case obviously I'd support the expansion of the network to your nation." She couldn't see why Serena would be opposed to this and so figured it was safe to assume she'd offer her approval. "I believe that will be much better to discuss with Empress Serena or a representative of her government here. Perhaps we can then expand things out to other matters."

TUNA was a proud part of Lodja's overseas strategies, mainly as it had done something to help tidy up the Alucard. "I'd be delighted for us to discuss what happens regarding your connection to TUNA. Do you have some kind of idea in mind? You've said you have a wish to forge close ties but avoid the Water Nomad issue, which I might add is miniscule. In the handful of years since we included that provision Lodja has seen less than 50 families take up the provisions of it and I believe others may even have lower figures." She had no idea whether that would sway the argument but it was worth putting out there. "Could we perhaps investigate for example a trade pact between TUNA and you're father?"

Now came to the amusing bit. "As for a consort I think we may be able to find something. You should though be aware of a few things. Lodjain girls are likely to be very interested. The idea of using sexual coupling as a way of advancing through society and as could be said raising in the ranks of nobility is very Sessifetian. She conquered all other Gods using her femine wiles. Plus I think they'll find you handsome enough that it proves you've certainly been blessed by Sessifet. Perhaps even Svetlana here could be persuaded."

"I don't think he'd approve of being one of several husbands I plan on taking" Svetlana smiled at Henrik. "I mean if he did consider being one of say....five or six..." she chuckled, "Then I think we could talk business." The ladies laughed. "Honestly though I think of a few young ladies of a similar age who could be persuaded. Do they have to be willing to change faith?" She asked her mind already considering two or three girls she knew of.

25
Diplomacy and Events / Re: The Heptarchy and Queendom
« on: December 11, 2023, 07:45:44 PM »
Natalya couldn't help but give a little chuckle at the Princes compliment. "You did not cause offence" She said sweetly, "I'm grateful for your kind words" she knew that most men found her attractive in some way but it was always a nice boost to the ego to have someone say it. "The gifts are very sweet and I shall have Jasmina see if we can make a visit to your Solsitice festival. I enjoy a good party" she let go of Henrirks arm as they disappeared inside the Palace to start their discussion. In truth the Queen was not sure if they would attend the festival, there were a few cultural issues that she could think of but perhaps they could be overcome. She took time to examine the gift, it was clear whoever had given the Emperor or his son advice on what gifts to bring had done a good job, the colour scheme was a superb choice. When inside and sat down Natalya removed those earrings she herself was wearing and without need of a mirror slipped the new ones in tilting her head from side to side to give Henrik a view of them. "I like them" she beamed.

They had reached a small lounge where the group could sit and talk. Low cream coloured couches flanked three sides of a coffee table with a roaring fire place fulfilling the forth. Natalya sat on one sofa alongside Jasmina. Tonya and Zhenya sat on the other exchanging whispered exchanges while Henrik was sat on the remaining one, Svetlana next to him indicating her role in the talks. Once everyone was seating Tonya stood and poured them all some wine before taking a seat next to Zhenya. Henrik could just about hear her whisper to Zhenya "He is cute" and the pair smiled at each other.

Natalya ignored the girls apparent gossip on the Prince and continued. "Your fathers note said that you wished to discuss matters of trade and I think he said other mutually agreeable matters. Can I enquire what those things are?"

26
Diplomacy and Events / Re: Art and Diplomacy (Lodja and NU + maybe others)
« on: December 11, 2023, 07:01:51 PM »
Rezakov made his way back to his hotel, it was not some luxurious thing but rather just a cheap and cheerful chain hotel. He had a friend in the Lodjain embassy in East Moreland book a 2nd room, straight across the corridor from his own. He made a play of casually walking along the corridor and passing by his room to gauge the reaction of anyone who may be following but the corridor was empty. He opened his own door and there found pushed under the door a keycard for the other room. He picked it up and then having waited five minutes switched carefully to the room opposite once again having checked no one observed him. He checked in with HQ filling them in on the days happenings and then settled down to an evening snooze.



"If you've been in the corridors under the Palace of the Goddess you'd see thousands of carefully preserved art works. Rotated regularly between the Palace, museums, galleries, embassies. Its going to take us months before we get a full list of everthing"  Isidore replied being a part of that process. "Your Majesty can be assured once that full list is done we'll give you a copy and naturally we'd like to discuss perhaps sending an official exhibition of our art to your galleries?" Besarian had to admire the way his wife had just turned an awkward moment into an oppurtunity.

As the call reached its climax Besarian had little care for fashion shows but suspected his wife would be eager to get in attendance. "Rest assured we shall be there." Besarian responded. Breathing a sigh of relief that the conversation was over.



The next morning Rezakov rose bright and early before crossing back to his room he'd booked. He quickly changed into a pair of smart black trousers and fresh grey wooly sweater before slipping on his coat and making his way down to reception to see what had been left for him. He checked the details on the note and then headed out to find a coffee and a way to the RV

27
Diplomacy and Events / Re: The Heptarchy and Queendom
« on: December 09, 2023, 09:19:17 PM »
Rakalin was the most southern city in Lodja. If you went any further West you began climbing into the mountain range known as the Yeval Range and there only pretty little villages and hamlets existed. The city was just 15km from the border with Eboricum yet it had over the years had very little to do with its southern neighbour. The Sheiff of Rakalin was Borislav Nadjinik, in the grand scheme of Lodjain politics he was a mid placed noble but today he would be front and centre of the event about to take place. The Queen and her vast entourage had arrived the day before and of course the Sheriff had taken great delighted in making sure the Queen had a pleasant evening. While it had not quiet been a ball there had been a gathering of the local nobility and the wine had flowed. Natalya and her Ladies in Waiting had though excused themselves early and while they could hear in the Sheriffs estate house courtyard the revelries continue until the early hours they had long curled up to ensure they were fresh for the morning.

Jasmina had ensured the Sheriffs staff had prepared the Queen's pale blue dress with silver stitching and then laid out three selections of jewels for the Queen's approval and after helping her put her hair up helped fasten the selected set. Once the Queen was looking magnificent the Ladies ensured they were similarly attired in dressed almost identical to the Queens but with no stitching and a slightly darker blue. The five Ladies then made their way outside to the Palace courtyard once they had been told that the guests were in bound to the meeting. The Queen watched as just before their arrival Lubos Kubik arrived having ensured an honour guard had marked the Crown Princes crossing into the Queendom. "So far everything is going to plan" the large ex-general stated as the Crown Princes motorcade arrived.

Nadjinik opened the door of the Crown Princes car and bowed to welcome the visiting royal. "Crown Prince Henrik I'm honoured to be able to introduce you to my Queen, the Guardian of Sessifet, Her Divine Majesty Queen Natalya."

The Queen stepped forward with a smile. "Your Highness I'm happy that your father has sent you and I agree with him it has been far too long. Would you care to come inside." The Queen stepped to stand beside Henrik and in a manouver pre-planned Svetlana manouvered the other side of him. Natalya continued speaking. "While you are here my Lady in Waiting Svetlana will act as your guide, PA and anything else you need. She will take very good care of you." The youngest lady in waiting smiled up at the Prince.

"Its an honour to serve you" She said giving a little walking bob of a bow of respect.

28
International News Networks / Re: Lodja Times
« on: December 06, 2023, 09:17:56 PM »




QUEEN BANS FUR FROM ISLE

In a move sure to send the noblewomen of Lodja scurrying to their wardrobes the Queen of Lodja has today banned the wearing of real fur on the Isle of the Goddess. Traditionally as the winter months have hit the Isle the weather there can get rather cold, especially in some of the older parts of the complex which is home to the Queen, her court and various entourages. This has often seen many nobles opt for the warmth of thick fur coats, including several monarchs. This year however there will be a change following the Queen issuing an edict that real fur will not be permitted to be worn on the Isle at all. The move comes following discussions with Ophelia Danilov, the ambassador to the Wild Mundus Organisation in Lodja, the Queen has determined that she will support the noble-womans anti-fur campaign. The Queen posted pictures of herself wearing faux fur online while praising Ophelia's programme. The Queen stated, "Once upon a time fur was seen by many Lodjains as a necessity. It was the only way to stay warm in winter. We've seen bears decline, at one point the beaver was gone from Lodja and various other species faced farming of sorts which was cruel. Sessifet may have given us dominion over the animals but it doesn't mean we need to abuse them. I'm proud that we will do our bit on the Isle."

Ophelia, who is hoping to become the Emperess of Neu Urburzis, has been helping promote the WMO to younger Lodjains since being named as Queen Natalya's successor as youth ambassador to the body. She hopes to run a small fashion show in the next month which is totally dedicated to "non-animal but animalesque fashion." Explaining the concept she said "Our nation spends much more on average than most nations per person on fashion. We have a whole host of styles we all enjoy suede, leather, fur and various other things give us a beautiful luxurious feel. We can still achieve these without the use of animals. I hope we can show young people that as we are the major consumers of fashion." The show is likely to happen in the next few weeks as Opehlia hopes to capitlise on the Queen's support.

29
Diplomacy and Events / Re: Art and Diplomacy (Lodja and NU + maybe others)
« on: November 30, 2023, 10:14:28 PM »
Playing the part of the ever dutiful partner Rezakov made a play of helping Regina up and apologising to the group at the table. He reached inside his jacket pocket and removed a few high value bank notes as Regina took off towards the table. "Gentleman" Rezakov said politely, "I apologise but I would expect you to act like gentleman. Allow me to buy you a bottle of champagne as a gesture of good will." He placed enough of the bank notes to make it possible to buy one of the best the restaurant had to offer. He secretly hoped that the group would pay by card as one of the banknotes was his "safety note" it contained in the security features of the local banknote a hidden fraction of a millimetre wide RFID chip. They were given to agents working abroad so they could, if needed be tracked at short range. As he sat down he pulled out his own phone and tapped away before sliding it round to her so she could see. The message contained the words "RFID track" and the frequency of the chip. If Regina could get someone on it quick enough they'd be easily able to track the group even from outside of buildings. It may be useful and at this point was all he could think of contributing in terms of tracking people down.

As the men had left Rezakov removed the swiped phone from his pocket, checked whether he could access it but as was common it was locked by a fingerprint. "We should get this cracked" he said as he placed the phone back in his pocket. "Got any friends up this late?" he asked.



While Isidore may have been new to global politics Besarian was well versed. "I understand your upset and that is exactly why we're working extremely hard to find a solution and return a valued piece of ours, and yours, nations heritage. As for Queen Natalya as of yet she is not fully in the loop, she been aware for some time that we've a significant amount of art work missing. You need to understand we've had to massively restore the Isle of the Goddess, we've had the homes on the foot of the hills pox marked with bullet holes, we've had huge amounts of fire damage and theft. Those have been our priorities and the Queen herself has been busy making major reforms to our nation. We value our friendship with you which is why you've Rezakov wandering around tracking things down. Once he has something to report the Queen will of course be fully briefed."

Isidore took over "Your Imperial Majesty" she began "We've thousands of paintings and art works on the Isle in various formats, sadly we can't track them all but you can be certain our two nations together will find this. I trust Rezakov and I think you should to. He should report in soon and lets see what he's found so far."

30
Convention Centre / Re: Bride of the Emperor - IC Socialisation Thread
« on: November 25, 2023, 12:16:10 PM »

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