Jewel of the Desert Festival

[Major Jaws]

King Lapu nodded to his staff to bring the documents. "So, these are just agreements to open embassies with each other, have an open trade, an alliance pact and the Dizon Acquisition of Farming Terrain. I wouldn't go into detail with most of them except for the last one. Now, in the Dizon Acquisition of Farming Terrain, or DAFT as I like to call it, I would like to buy one thousand hectares of land suitable for farming and mining, probably here near the salt marshes. The price is very negotiable and 35% of the profit made by the properties shall go straight to your treasuries." King Lapu offered the document he is holding. "So, what do you think, my friend?"

[Snackz]

when Maxim found the king he pulled an envelope which had the text "Project Okeanskiy" on it in Artyin.

"Your Highness, I would like to discuss with you what is inside this envelope. Project Okeanskiy is an upcoming project that involves the development of multi-purpose submarines. Since you are on the waterfront, I thought it would be a great place to ask." He handed over the envelope to the king. "This Envelope also contains a small Gift for you."

Artyom found Queen Katrina. He quickly got a small decorated case out.
"Your Highness, please accept this gift on behalf of all of the reds." He brought the case up and opened it, revealing a pair of rare Emerald Earrings
"You people are not the only ones who have grand jewels," he said jokingly with a smile "May I please ask you if you could tell about RS?"

[DaveIronside]

TYP

The mines weren't exactly a place for someone of the position as significant as a Pope would go, they were dusty, dangerous, dirty and quiet often the scene of a poor worker being beaten for messing up. It was as though the mines were a place where the words "Health and Safety" had long been forgotten. "While I'm sure my family would be honoured to host you there it is not exactly the most seemly of places for a man of your status to be." Mariam explained before sitting down and beginning to discuss the works with His Holiness. Soon she'd produced a sketch pad and begun drawing based on her discussions with the man. "If you'd be willing to come by tomorrow morning I'll hopefully have the final sketches done for you." she said after quiet some time. "Is there anything more I can do for you?"


General Jaws & Achkaerin & Snackz

The King was happy to discuss business, he'd have prefered to of course spent his time in more leisure but needs must. "We're more than happy to set up embassies with anyone, I'm looking forward to meeting whoever you send, I hope they will be frequent visitors to my home." the King figured he had now done his duty and extended his hospitality to the man's envoy. The request to buy land was a surprise, however for the amount of land wanted was minimal, perhaps a deal could be done. "I think you will find it difficult to farm and mine on that amount of land, but King to King I will make you a deal. I shall gift you the land, on two conditions, the first being that it can not be used for mining" The mineral extraction business was a key part of his nations wealth and he had no desire to permit the outside world to get a slice of that particular pie. "Additionally I would want 40% of the profit for the first ten years and then 35% for the rest of the time you hold the land. My final condition is that you may not sell the land, if the company cease to trade or wish to be gone of their obligations here the land must be given to a Seleucid noble. IF that is acceptable we have an agreement" the King explained.

The King turned to the Vafelon group, "If your looking for a sign of quality, just look for any stall with my families coat of arms on display. We only permit those we have made purchases from before and their goods been satisfactory to display it. Consider it by royal appointment." The King explained, "Failing that I find the stalls with the longest lines usually are a sign of quality, us Seleucid's know good jewellrey, good gold and good diamonds, if a stall is quiet while the festival is busy its generally sub standard or unfashionable."

The King next turned his attention to Maxim, "I would need to know much more about this project, what purpose are these submarines of yours for?" he began, he wasn't expecting such an approach but it would be rude to dismiss it out of hand, especially when a gift was presented. "You deeply honour us" the King lied, the token looked clearly Communist, an ideology that the King couldn't abide, his faith however forbid him from being mean about it. "This project.....Okeanskiy then...perhaps you could enlighten us all, you after all do have three monarchs sat here before you."


Snackz

Out on the festival site Queen Katrina thanked Artyom for the earings, emeralds were not her thing and his belief that his nations craftsmanship was superior to Seleucid work was in her mind laughable, she took great care to examine them closely, even allowing the stall owner close by to inspect them, the Queen's body language telling him to show approval. "A nice gift for sure Your Majesty" the man said as he handed them back.

"Indeed" the Queen placed them back in the box, "You have my sincere thanks" the Queen kissed the man on both cheeks as was the custom in Seleucid for exchanging gifts. "As for our nation we are one that is proud of our heritage, you see festivals like this are a throw back to our founding days, a time when many of our people roamed the desert still, I suppose its a spiritual home for us. Sadly some of our former glories have waned now thanks to my husbands ancestors not sharing his ambition but things are on the up, our economy is growing, our people are now trading globally once more and we are making wonderful new friends like yourself. I would say to many our nation is still a mystery, but one we want the world to come and discover, we enjoy hosting guests, its part of our faith to show hospitality to all visitors, and hopefully many many more of your countryman will find this out in the years to come."

[The Young Pope]

"Sounds good, I'll stay here for a few days in any case. Mmh...to be honest, I'm not sure where I should or what I should do, unless there's something more noteworthy in the bazaar, I wouldn't mind being escorted back to the his majesty if possible."

[Major Jaws]

King Lapu sighed as he heard the requests of his fellow King. They're both greedy monarchs, so, it would just make sense for him to offer less than expected. He patiently waited, silently thinking for a bargain while the King is negotiating with his fellow leaders. After hearing the Lodjian and the communist, he replied. "I think that your requests are a little bit, too much." He exclaimed, almost shouting but not in a ride way. "Perhaps we could bargain just like any other stalls out there." King Lapu continued as he gripped the documents he's holding tighter. "I'll give you 50% of our earnings for the whole time we're owning it, but you'll have to give us the rights to extract minerals." He ended with a slight frown forming on his face.

[DaveIronside]

Thelka and Danyal smiled as the Pope wondered about what else was going on at the festival. "Its not all Gems and precious metals here" Thelka began to explain, "where money is being made it is also being lost." She whispered some orders to their security detail who soon had four air conditioned black SUV's arrive, the group boarded the vehicles and headed out of the festival around a kilometer to the east, in a little natural bowl a host of smaller tents were set up and in the middle a white fenced track. Many other SUV's were sat with their tailgates open and various picnics being enjoyed by families. There was a buzz of excitement here as people greeted each other with friendly waves and more familiar hugs. One of the security detail dropped the tailgate of the SUV the Pope, Thelka and Danyal had been travelling in and proceeded to lay out a nice tablecloth and hamper. He produced a chilled bottle of wine from a fridge concealed in the boot of the vehicle and poured the pope a glass as a second man brought a comfortable folding chair.

Down in the bowl's track six starting stalls were being set up, dust from the sand of the track hanging in the air as the course staff did their work. "Your Highness'" a man in a traditional robe carrying a book approached. "Care to place some wagers?" he asked theatrically opening his book and holding a pen ready.

"Sajid" Danyal stood and shook the man's hand, who is competing" the young royal looked in the book and scanned his finger down the list of names, "I see Stelias Peraz has a camel in this one" he reached into his inside pocket and produced his wallet removing six crisp high denomination notes. "Place this on his beast, any winnings the Pope here may donate to whatever or whomever he wishes"

"Of course" the man jotted down the details bowed and headed off.

"I hope you'll find this interesting" Thelka added, by now the group were set up with a folding gazebo to shade them and snacks along with their wine. Down at the track a buzzer sounded and the gates opened, six lumbering camels shot out of the traps but rather than a human riding them some sort of Robotic Jockey was at the reigns. A large crowd roared and cheered as the animals hurried around the track, with a final sprint for the line Danyal's pick had won. As he celebrated the bookmaker reappeared.

"Spend it wisely" the man managed to smile as he handed over eighteen notes like the ones Danyal had given him earlier. "Enjoy your stay sir" the man added to the Pope before heading off on his lap of the track paying out to his winners.

"1800 Drachmaes[note]1 Drachmaes = $1[/note], kind of a shame I had no more money" Danyal shrugged as he folded the brightly coloured plastic notes and handed them to the Pope. "They say its good luck to pass on your good luck, so I hope this stands me in good stead" he added as he retook his seat.


Back in the tent the King listened to Lapu's counter offer, at least he was in the spirit of the occasion, in fact the King would have felt rather insulted had he not haggled, after all it was part of the enjoyment of such occasions. "Your Majesty, it seems this is a sellers market these days with land , and minerals and the like. Such things are long etsablished here, land is at a premium and does not come cheap, our industries rely on certain minerals, what you are asking is for me to take bread from the mouths of my people to give it to yours." the King had spent years at various stalls across his Kingdom and did a fine impression of one of the stall holders. "But I like you, so I will make you a deal" he stood and paced a little as though in thought. "You may mine on one condition, no gold, silver or gems may be exported from Royal Seleucid, other minerals, you do with is you wish. Next the gold, silver or gems you find will be given as payment for the land, in return I shall ask a mere 1 Drachma rent for each square meter of land per year. Consider it a gamble, you find no gold or silver, you pay little, you find some.....well you pay a little more but you don't have my hand in the till" the King knew that any land granted would contain some of the precious materials and as such he wouldn't be massively out of pocket if at all. "What do you say?" 

[The Young Pope]

TYP feeling some sort of pity for Danyal, simply handed the folder back to him, he had all the money in the world anyway. "Thanks but it's alright my friend, you keep it and spend it however you want...perhaps buy something nice for Thekla, you two seem to be quite close and family is all what matters, share the cash even. It must be quite unique and nice traditional sport, robots riding camels...that's something that must be unheard of outside. With that in mind I would like to sponsor as well these robot-camel institutions as well as donating tons of drachma, the camels deserve some nice treats and upgraded robots is never a bad idea in my book. If possible, I would like introduce this fun sport in ES, purchase an entire set of camels, robots and the like, think the faithful back home would enjoy this sort of thing...and a camel as one of my latest additions of pets is certainly on my agenda now haha." TYP was a very peculiar man, collecting anything and everything it seemed from all the corners of Mundus as well as offering patronages to strange intitutions from time to time, for him it was a way to help promote people's buisnesses and upholding his Christian duty when it comes to wealth sharing.

[DaveIronside]

Danyal looked at Thelka and then back at the Pope still holding the folded bank notes, his mind confused, had he not given enough? It was all he had on him, after all as a nobleman of Seleucid he often didn't need to carry cash around with him, the 600 Drachma he had been carrying merely a small sum so, should he wish, he could buy from the smaller stalls that did not accept cards or notes of credit. Most of the time he didn't even need that. "My apologise Your Holiness" Danyal hung his head, not sure if he'd have offended his King by not being hospitable enough to the Pope. He disappeared off down towards the track leaving Thelka rather awkardly trying to work out what to do next. She kept an eye on her cousin watching him first blend into the crowd before walking up the slope further away and heading back towards the Festival on his own. She understood why, his hospitality had been rejected and as such he had shamed the royal family, no doubt he would be trying to apologise to the King long before they had returned from the track.

It was important now that Thelka ensure the Pope didn't feel like an undervalued guest. "I shall make all the arrangements for you" Thelka snapped at one of the staff that had accompanied them who disappeared immediately down towards the track. They sat watching a few more races before the sunglass wearing pin stripe suited man reappeared accompanied by two men. "Thank you for coming gentleman" Thelka shook their hands, "These two gentleman are the owners of the two most successful stables, they have agreed to bring ten camals each to your nation, along with the jockeys for an evening of racing, they can fit in perhaps with some of your nations horse racing calender." she suggested.  "And to get you started Kelias here" she tapped the shorter of the men on the shoulder has agreed to start your camel collection off, one of his prized champions has just sired with a rather successful endurance racing mother. As an apology on behalf of Danyal please accept the baby Camel as a gift, if you would like Kelias here will train the beast for racing." she hoped she had salvaged some of Danyal's honour for him.

[Tamed_Untamed]

 Alsial Kodiko reflected on the 1 page report given to him by one of his agents in the Foreign Office. Concerning their neighbors and other states, Alsial thought it was of great benefit to their people for him to send the other Triarchs out. He thought it would be great for them to talk to more people, to enjoy their reign as Triarchs and to establish alliances. Hopefully, he thought, Rosasoro Dsatea would find a lover and Soa Ustalius would have a companion. A true one. The last one was just distasteful.

Soon enough, he gave the word to his own servant, who waited by his side as he read the report in his own office. The servant then went out and in a span of around 15 minutes, the two Triarchs came. Alsial told them what he wanted. And then he let them speak. Soa was the first to speak out, of course,

"You want us to go to the Desert Festival? Immediately?! But I am tending to my garden!"

Rosasoro simply shrugged and said,

"I don't mind going. But you can't just tell Soa to go while she is doing her garden."

Soa then continued, approaching Alsial,

"Seriously, you have to let me go at a later time. Send her first then I will go when my gardening is done. My precious tomatoes have just gotten around."

Alsial then sighed and put his hands up and stopped Soa from getting too close, saying,

"All right. All right. You can tend to your tomatoes and the rest of your new plants. Very well. I will send Rosasoro first." He then nodded to the young Triarch and she went off and got her things ready. In a few more hours, she made her way to the airport and in time boarded her flight to the King's Palace of The Sands

[The Young Pope]

"Oh my I didn't mean to offend Danyal or anyone from here my sincere apologies, I suppose our cultures look different when it comes to money I suppose." With that embarassing episode out of the way the Pope continued, "Thank you for making these arrangements my friend, it shall be an honor to host all these wonderful desert creatures and that little baby surely does look cute. Kelias' salary shall reflect his utmost importance within my court rest assured...also there's no need to apologise and if there has to be, it has already been accepted in my heart and soul."

[Snackz]

"Well, comrade. This is a program that will provide hundreds of kilometers of your land to be protected from the depths of the sea! These combat subs are fitted with missile launchers that are capable of firing nuclear or non-nuclear projectiles into areas that are beyond reach. They will also be fitted out with stealth and reconnaissance technology for recon missions. The ones we built were around $950 Million per submarine. Your thoughts?"


"Oh. Nice. I am now leaving to get something to eat. Do you care to join me?" Artyom asked politely

[Major Jaws]

King Lapu shook his head after what he heard. "I can't have myself in the losing side." He started, leaning back to his chair. "I would pay 35% of the mine's revenue for the first decade to you then 45% afterwards if you would let us mine silver, gold, or gems." The King then moved to the right to make him more comfortable. "If not then I can offer you 15% of the stocks of Dizon Farms for 5,000 hectares of your land where we can build mines and collect them without regulations other than taxes and payment for the rent." King Lapu finished haggling back, still with the expressions on his face uncertain..

[DaveIronside]

The King first turned to the matter of the submarines, " I am afraid at this time I must turn down your offer,  our nations submarine fleet is only just 15 years old, it has many years of service ahead of itself, close to $1billion per submarine is a price that a nation can not afford for something it does not need, I must apologise" he explained, " Also like yourselves we are not nuclear armed and so to acquire something for that purpose, is again a luxury we can't afford." he hoped he hadn't been to rude but the 7 submarines they had were all they really needed."

Next he turned back to the negotiations with  King Lapu, "Let me please explain something, it is not that we are anti-business, far from it. The issue is one of impression, you see our faith teaches us that wealth is a gift to Seleucid from the Gods, as such we have been blessed with a variety of gold, silver and diamonds, possibly unrivalled in quality," he boasted. "To allow a foreign company to come to our nation, and take that very wealth...well it would not give a good impression to our people. But I may have a way around this. Your company sets up a subsidary, I don't know call it Dizon Seleucid or something, the name is irrelevent. Every worker at that subsidary is from Seleucid, you'll have no issue finding good mining workers, it as after all a speciality of ours. This new company will licence the name Dizon from you at a price, essentially that price will be 70% of its after tax profit, meanwhile I shall recieve 30% of its after tax profit. I get to tell my people this is a Seleucid company mining Seleucid wealth, you get your materials. There would be one other condition, each of my wives and daughters gets to select one diamond a year and your company will have it made into a piece of jewellrey for them, at Dizon's expense." He knew the cost would be minimal of providing around eight rings, maybe more if he took a new wife or produced more offspring but it would be a show of the company again embracing Seleucid custom. "Does this seem a deal"

Before King Lapu could answer a nervous looking Danyal arrived, he knelt before his uncle and in hurried Seleucid explained to his uncle what had happened at the race track, the King's smiling and cheerful demenor changed instantly, he stood and using the back of his hand struck Danyal hard across the face, the impact audiable across the room. "You swine" King Akakois bellowed as he kicked the now prostrate boy in the ribs, a kick that would have made any member of the Seleucid world cup squad proud. " I give you a place at my table, I educate you, I give you cars, wealth, women and this is how you repay me, you embarass me in front of guests. You offer the Pope, a man of great influence an unworthy gift." The King was now removing his belt and folded it in half to begin raining blows down upon Danyal's back and shoulders, each strike sending a loud crack through the tent. Several servants looked away as the King continued his physical assault, he stopped whipping him now and grabbed the boys curly dark hair a painstriken and bloodied face now visible, "In the old days a King would have had you taken into the desert and your throat cut, your body left for Vultures, but I am kind." he slammed the boys face onto the floor. "You will of course be punished" Danyal lay crying, "and that punishment shall be much worse if you do not stop whimpering like a woman" the King aimed another kick into Danyal's ribs. "I had planned to make you some kind of MInister, that will change now, you will spend some time working in a field, perhaps these DIzon farms people need someone to shovel pig shit or something." he motioned to King Lapu, "Then you will better appreciate what I have provided for you and never let me down again." It was like a switch had been flipped and the King now calmly wiped his hands on a towel hung over his chair and replaced his belt. He took a long sip of water and then returned to his seat, "So King Lapu, we have a deal?" he asked as though the last few minutes had never happened.

[The Young Pope]

When the Young Pope thought that the worst was over, he was proven to be quickly wrong in an instant. As he and his entourage were on their way back to the King's Hall, an informant came, whispered in his right ear and before you knew it stopped for a moment and looked in the far away distance, without any emotion at first whatsoever before sucumbing in a silent fist of outrage and sadness...apparently the clash of cultures regarding hospitability resulted in a brutal knockdown on danyal by the Seleucid majesty himself; The Young Pope until now held so much respect and esteem for the King since he thought that their values and traditins were similar despite the differences, the case however was the opposite, he felt betrayed and backstabbed...as Pope he swore to protect and safekeep everyone he met from harm, now he felt that he failed Danyal. "If only I took those stupid Drachmas to begin with...now he's a half-dead corpse, literally and it's all my doing..." he muttered to himself as he instead was escored to a room where the young lad was being taken care of and stitched up by servants. With a nod to his entourage, he closed the door to have a private conversation with him.

Minutes past and it's unknown to what he and the young lad were talking about, but at last when he exited the infirmary and gently closed the door behind him...his fists were clenched and thus finally made his way to the original destination, "May the Lord aid me in this..." he told himself. Peter could just imagine what he would do to the psychopatic monarch if he were in a different universe...but no no it was time to play this game of intrigue, play it cool and when he appeared in front of the Seleucid King and his ally King Lapu of Quintelia, to which he nodded to in greeting, he put on a fake smile. "Your most astonishing and glorious majesty, I would like to thank you for upholding my honor and presence by giving that insolent bastard a hard, efficient teaching, may he never commit such barbarious act with that filthy amount of money, certainly not. Now I have a suggestion, I'd say with your permission I would like to bring him to ES and teach him our harsh lessons, show what happens when you insult a man of great standing and importance such as myself and yourself naturally...it would take a year, perhaps two. In any case I think this would be a very good opportunity to teach him some proper manners in how to show the greatest hospitability...doesn't that sound a good idea your most gracious and noble majesty of your wonderful standing?"

[Norgeras]

"... and you say you have a fifteen Carat fancy Blue available as well?" Albrecht was in deep discussion with Astaria, the daughter of the stall owner, in tow with Queen Katrina and Orion. There was something about the woman's knowledge and Artistic Instinct that he believed just might get them the edge to snatch the most sought for Jewels.

Yet the group stumbled directly into Danyal's punishment, and had he been jumpy before, Orion was not having this. It took him about three seconds to realize the scene they had stumbled on, and four more to dart straight back out of the room.

Albrecht cursed inwardly, the timing couldn't have been worse, before turning to the Queen with a small bow: "I have to apologize myself for a moment there."
Darting right past the door, Orion had not gone far. Sitting right behind the Door he was biting his own hand to muffle his Pitiful whimpering before Albrecht gently put his hand onto his cousins hair, giving the Kid a gentle Kiss onto his forehead: "It's alright. I am here for you."
Slowly picking him up, holding him tight he allowed the young Royal to even sink his teeth into Albrecht's own shoulder as Orion tried hard to suppress screaming out loud, patting him on the shoulder until Orion had calmed a little.

It took a little cleaning up snot and tears from the young Emperor's face along with the handy Sunglasses to cover most of that mess, but Albrecht know this Situation had gotten ten times worse with this little outburst. There was no way the Queen hadn't noticed, and so did the Palace Staff.

"That was, unfortunate." Albrecht said, Orion still pressing his  older cousins Hand tightly: "Orion here still is a little jumpy from the kidnapping earlier this year. Really unpleasant business. It's not like we don't know proper beatings in Uburzis,..." Orion visibly pressed harder onto Albrechts hand that moment, his Eyes concealed by the Sunglasses he now wore indoor: "... heck they are even a judicial form of punishment for boys, just this happened in a really untimely manner."

As he saw the pope follow Daryl into an infirmary, Albrecht glared after into that direction: "I am sure you understand how badly this might look to our Senate if they hear about this incident. They might even consider cancelling the sword being made by this brilliant young Lady." nodding to Astaria again: "and that would be such a waste. I think we might have to find a way to solve this."

Tilting his head, Albrecht watched the King pick up business again, before speaking to the Queen again: "We both have to ensure no one looses face over this small incident. So, how about a little deal."

turning to look at Orion again, Albrecht nodded: "Orion is a little unstable at the moment, and Daryl had to compensate for his Mistakes immediately according to your Kings will. Everyone has acted without fault aside from maybe two Persons." Albrecht glanced over towards TYP's general directions: "Yet since this little Problem we had right now added another distressed party, i'd suggest a temporary Exile for young Daryl, it seems rather too kind to keep him here, wouldn't you agree? We do have an Orchard that needs tending and several horses that need Shit shoveled as well back at our own Palace. And it would please our own Politicians back home enough to consider the sword being made by this fine young Lady."

Pressing Orion's hand a little, Albrecht gave almost a dark grin as he added: "I did have some first hand Lessons from the Empress in proper Discipline techniques as well, so he wouldn't get off easy."

Nodding to the Servants: "Since i can be sure of their discreteness, i would suggest we invite Miss Astaria back to Neu Uburzis to Finalize the work on the Blade, it will be a National Treasure after all. Forged in Sacrifice in More than one way it seems. Of course only if young Daryl will be accompany her."

[Achkaerin]

The Silverwoods had taken to perusing the various stalls, it was a great opportunity to get present buying done, Robin was looking over a jewelry stall while Elianor was admiring the craftsmanship of a hunting bow, being an archer it was something that fascinated her. Marion and Courtois were sat eating a local snack which meant that at least they weren't running around. Robin paid for what he'd bought, it was a silver hair pin with a ruby and sapphire on it in the shape of roses, a perfect present for Elianor, he started to make his way over to where she was discussing the bow with the stall holder when his phone rang.

"Yes Manius?" he asked, it was his older brother calling
"It's happened." Manius said "Dad's...dead."
"When?" Robin asked almost in shock, they'd known this was coming but hadn't expected it this soon.
"An hour ago." Manius said
"I see." Robin said
"We're going to put out a press statement surely so be advised it may get picked up over there." Manius said
"Ok thank you for letting me know." Robin said

Elianor was still talking to the stall holder when she saw the look on Robin's face, she was his twin she knew how to read him, there was no need to say anything she just hugged him tears in her eyes
"How do we tell them?" Elianor asked
"Like we practiced." Robin said, trying to sound as brave as he could but he was borderline losing it as well "Take them off somewhere private and tell them."

[Major Jaws]

King Lapu rolled his eyes at the Artyomovan who continued to babble about submarines. His fellow King turned down the offer, much to his delight. "Finally, no more communists disrupting our business talks." He thought as King Akakios turned towards him. His conditions were mostly agreeable, the Seleucid Royal Family getting diamonds was good for advertisement, and the subsidiary in Royal Seleucid would mean a foothold on Cotf Aranye and the start of the company's expansion there. Those are beside the point. Of course, King Lapu needs some Quintelians to be part of the higher-ups. He started. "Ah yes bu-" King Lapu was interrupted by a man, who may or may not be related to his fellow king started having a nervous breakdown on humiliating the pope. "Pedro must have fucked up in saying something and may have offended him.". He thought, shaking his head. Then suddenly, without warning, King Akakios struck the man in the face, such then brought a lot of memories. Memories of his childhood, as a son of a son of a con-artist. The most vivid one being:

I remember being a naughty child with a strict grandparent. Once who I was twelve years old, my grandfather, who joined the Wewazlangzandshit tribe thorough bribes. He wanted no-one to challenge him, so first, he took control of our money to control my parents. Then, he beat me with his cane and a broken bottle. I remember the blood on my gashed lip, the bruises on my legs, my broken arms, and my chest was full of shards of glass. I needed to be taken care at an ICU, but when I recovered, I got punched again by my grandfather. Then, when I failed Social Sciences and or Math, or both of them, I would be forced to kneel on rice while my hands are extended carrying the bios of the subjects I failed. I ensures these up until I was 12, when he finally died and I moved away.

- King Lapu's thought, 2017

As the belt cracks as King Akakios beats the poor man, King Lapu winces and cringed. More to his shock, his fellow King pointed to him while berating the man, who is likely a relative of the king beating him. As he finished, King Akakios looked back at King Lapu and asked, once again.

"Ah yes, finally, we can agree on something that benefits us both. Just sign here and our negotiations are done." King Lapu sighed a breath of relief and smiled. The Pope entered and they greeted each other subtlety. He ended as he's handing over the papers to be filled out.

[DaveIronside]

The King couldn't understand the concern these foreigners displayed, it was no wonder the children of their nations were such degenerates, every Seleucid knew the leader of their family determined everything for them, almost like mini King's, however the King had a problem, lose one of his people a sweet deal or allow Danyal to escape his actual punishment. "I'm afraid Danyal has obligations befitting a Prince in Seleucid, however I would not wish to deny a person such an oppurtunity to visit the Emperors home" he refered to Orion, "However Danyal must begin his Naval training in three weeks, if he fails to attend he shall be classed as AWOL, and I can do nothing about that, can you imagine how it would look to my people, a Prince being able to escape his obligation because of the will of his uncle when every other boy his age must honour their commitment." While the nation did not have national service as such it was expected all male University students do 12 months military service prior to beginning their degree, in essence the degree was their reward for their service to their nation. "Danyal has enrolled on a course in engineering here, he must honour that, but for the next three weeks his time is his own." The King left little doubt that a terrible fate would wait Danyal if he failed to show but was confident enough that the move would pacify some of the weaklings gathered before him. The King returned to the Pope, "while I thank you for the offer of teaching him manners, I believe our Navy shall do that, especially as most likely he will end up in a Marine unit after todays escapade" The Marines were the less glamourous of the naval units and the training often brutal he was sure Danyal would be taught all the manners he needed there.

The King didn't even change subject, just picked up a pen and signed the agreement with King Lapu. "I wish this new Seleucid business every success" he handed the signed papers back with a smile. "I'm sure Dizon Seleucid or whatever you call them, will be very happy here"

The King headed towards a curtain and spoke quietly through it, a smartly suited man and a woman wearing a flowing red dress emerged. "I'm afraid I have a prior appointment with the beautiful Miss Stasiuk and her daughters, some private business. My son Crown Prince Hadi and his wife Princess Korina will take care of you. You may speak with him as with myself." The King motioned for Ekatarina and Oksana to follow him into the private areas of the Palace leaving his eldest son and his second wife to entertain the guests.

Hadi had witnessed the beating, he'd taken a few as a child but as a bright young man and obedient son he'd not suffered quiet as much. He made the rounds topping up people's wine as his wife passed round plates of food before seating herself next to the Pope. "My father is a little old fashioned at times, but our people like our traditions, some of his children, well we've been keen to see more of the world. My wife here has travelled much more than me but I seek to change that." He'd now took his fathers seat. "Danyal will be back in his good books in a few days, you see him and Thelka are best friends, and Thelka, she can do no wrong so all will be forgotten. So is there anymore I can do for anyone?"

[Norgeras]

"Oh?" Albrecht raised an Eyebrow as the King left, not without a thin smile before turning to the Crown Prince:

"How nice to meet you." he said, before bowing to his Wife: "and your beautiful Wife."

Orion had taken a seat not without Albrecht straightening the Shoulders and making sure he seemed halfway representable again, before adressing the Seleucid Crown Prince again:

"I understand the Importance of Obligations, and do not worry. The Late Empress and our knew the value of an old Fashioned lesson as well."

Sipping some Tea, Albrecht nodded again:
"I think i could convince the Elder Senate to accept the Situation as unfortunate timing if Danyel is able to show up for a day or two before he fulfills his Duties here. We do hold Military Service in very High regards, and talking about it. Did you know we actually have Public Punishment for Boys as Part of our Judical System? It is a common punishment Chosen by the Judge if the deed was not Severe enough to make them Convict Cadets, think of First Time Shop lifting and Defacing of Property as examples."

Orions face was slightly grimacing, but while pinching his hands, he waved over to a servant. Holding one hand flat over the other, he raised his right hand up, then pointed with his right hand onto his left wrist, before forming a triangle over his head with his hands.
"Stop that childish act." Albrecht hissed in a hushed tone, pressing Orions wrist a little, said one nodding slowly: "Tell Astaria we meet her later again."

[The Young Pope]

"I just want Danyal to understand that I'm deeply sorry about the cultural clashes which resulted in his injuries and if there's anything I can do for him, he can contact me easily...As much as I value the importance of discipline within youthly ranks, I can't just fathom the thought giving someone physical punishment for risking to break someone's ribs and almost die from such injuries. In any case, moving on...was it you who was supposed to analyse the proposed agreement between our nations, if so what did you think of it?"

[Snackz]

"Well your loss, tovarishch. I hope you can change your mind soon, or it is off the table. Good day, comrade" Maxim said serenely just before he left to sit down with Artyom.

After the king made his scene, Artyom, who was fiddling with a revolver he had not handed over the guard subtly, looked up when Maxim tapped his shoulder. "What's up, bratukha?"
"What a kolot. But he would make a hell of a nadsmotrshchik (Gulag boss). This kid deserves better though, don' you think?" Maxim replied without looking at his friend. They then proceeded to speak in Artyin
"We must not associate with these people. They are madmen!" Artyom said. "We have a clean slate, don't wanna make it dirty!"
I know. Beating a kid's ass is normal, but only privately with a belt is the most you should do, not move his spleen next to his heart Maxim said. They both laughed while looking subtly at the king.
"bratukha" Artyom Said, "The atmosphere is uneasy here. I do not like it here."
"Not to much longer Artyom"

[Major Jaws]

King Lapu finally relaxed and breathed normally. His fellow king's outrage bright back the trauma but he could still hide it. Although he was concerned for Danyal, he just shrugged it off. King Lapu knew by unfortunate experiences that people who beat up someone for a simple mistake cannot be easily negotiated with. He was lucky enough to get some deals through and looked at the papers and gave the signed agreements to his staff and offered his snacks. He wrinkled his forehead in disgust as he saw the communist fidgeting with his gun. He stood up, nodded to his fellow leaders, and left.

Outside, he just strolled by, looking at stalls and the people flocking to them. The haggling, the noise, the crowd, it makes him feel like in a marketplace back in Quintelia. He walked slowly, matching the pace of the hordes of buyers. He went into a stall and stated looking at some golden jewelry. He then asked the stall keeper. "Do you have anything for for a king?"

[Libby]

Agreed With Dave

Ekatrarina and her eldest daughter Oksana accompanied the King into the back rooms of the Palace as it was time for their private face to face. It had been in Ekatarina's mind a long time coming, she'd expected the King to deal with one thing at a time not skip merrily from person to person or topic to topic, it just wasn't how things were done back home. Yet again that was the whole reason for being here, to get a toe into a new territory, to get the backing of someone with influence and maybe even more. To her it was vital that her company of luxury resorts expand beyong the crystal blue waters of the Lodjain islands or the sandy beaches of the Northern coastline, and here was Seleucid, a land of high temperatures and a welcoming nature, she'd just have to remind tourists to accept all hospitality save some poor unfortunate soul get a beating like Danyal. She had sat and watched the whole thing emotionless, as though it was something that she had seen a million times before, it however had taken Oksana by surprise and her mother wondered now whether she truly had heard her daughter gasp as the belt had struck and cracked loudly.

As the three entered the dining area the King had ordered prepared two women wearing long white dresses pulled out the guests chairs and gave small bows as they waited for the Lodjain's to take a seat. Ekatarina nodded her thanks as she scooched the chair closer to the table. The room was lined with hanging canopies of brightly coloured material and everything on the table seemed to be brand new, brilliant white china plates, each embossed with the Seleucid coat of arms, the cutlery twinkled in the light of the tented Palace, its silver colour reflecting onto some of the drapes. Two glasses sat in front of each of the three diners, the rim lined with gold. It was obvious the King wanted to make an equally good impression. "I'd like to thank Your Majesty for the hospitality you've shown us, it is way beyond what I had imagined" she had learnt quickly while here, flatterig the standard of the man's hospitality was sure to go over well.

"Dear, you are welcome here anytime. You and your daughters are like a flower in this desert." Akakois leaned forward and poured the women a glass of red wine, the clarity of the glasses enhansing the colour of the dark rich red liquid. "So, before our meal arrives I believe you had a propersition for me?" he leaned back in his chair crossing one leg over the other and resting his elbows on the leg as though contemplating what was to come.

"Indeed we do" Ekatarina picked up the glass of wine and took a sip, "Lovely" she smiled as she placed the glass delicately back on the table. "You see my family business is tourism, especially luxury resorts, something I believe Seleucid is lacking and judging by what I have seen here you have no issues being able to provide luxury, if anything we build had half the luxury of your Palace I'd be an extremely happy woman." she was keen to stroke the man's ego, she found that often worked well with men who held significant power. "But beyond that what I need are the right conditions for investing and of course permission, all this can take time, I was hoping at this festival to meet someone who could perhaps be that friend." she left no doubt she was speaking about the King.

"And my dear what would this....friend...be getting in return for smoothing your way." The King grinned as he watched Ekatarina think for a moment, he noticed Oksana had said very little and was probably just here because of her mother not wishing to let the child be alone, it was fair enough, he was protective over his own daughters and would never leave them unaccompanied in a strange place.

"I was hoping my new friend would accept the fact that I can offer incentives in Lodja, you see back home only those who are Lodjain nobles or who have the permission of one may invest, or own companies, now I would be willing for certain tit for tat returns be willing to allow my Stasiuk name to be used by my new friend." she had inherited her father's title several years ago now, meaning she'd given up a lucrative position as a Lady in Waiting, she still had friends at court and knew that would be useful to any foreign investor.

"So, your friend would arrange for you to invest here, with no barriers, and in return they would get to invest in Lodja with no barriers?" the King enquired.

"Indeed, up to the value of my investment here I wouldn't even take a fee, so if I was allowed to invest say $400 million then I'd allow them to invest the same amount without taking a single penny in return, but if they invest more than that then I believe a 2% share of all profits in Lodja should come to me, the more each of us invest the better for us both right?" she posed the question as the food arrived, a Gespatchio soup, bright red in colour the taste fresh and soothing on the hot day.

"It sounds a good offer, but is rather reliant on you" he took a sip of his soup, a fient drop spilling into his beard, he knew he always made a mess eating the stuff but he loved it. He dabbed at his grey beard with a thick white napkin before resuming. "I think any friend may wish more." He watched the women begin eating their own, taking much greater care than he had. "It is acceptable....the soup I mean." he asked

"Of course, isn't it Oksana" Ekatarina nudged her daughter gently.

"Its wonderful Your Majesty" the blonde haired girl replied as she continued eating.

"My apologies" Ekatarina figured it was time to stop playing games and get things out in the open, "I would need to know who my friend was." she put her spoon down and leaned in, "Then I can make sure he is very satisfied with what is on offer, and then I get what I want." she watched the King lean back in his chair clearly enjoying the semantics of the conversation.

"Lady Ekatarina....may I call you Ekatarina." he posed the question but didn't wait for the answer, "I would very much like to be your friend." he placed a hand on hers, Oksana felt awkward but clearly this was not at all something new to her mother who simply placed her right elbow on the table and rested her cheek on her fist as she moved even further forward.

"Well friend what would you like" she watched him look amused, "I'm sure if the deal is right we can conclude it quick enough, deals between friends are always good."

"Not always" The King leaned forward now looking Ekatarina in he eye, "Sometimes a friend can be cruel to be kind, but friendship is friendship and something said in love can not cause harm." he waited a moment or two, "You have two things I want.....one you offer, one you may not do so, but I shall purpose it....The first thing I want is oppurtunity, you offer that and I am more than satisfied. The second thing well....I shall be straight to the point, my people wish me to take a fourth wife, to have more children. It is a sign of a good king if he is strong and virial, and what better way to show them than taking another wife. I have three fine ones of course, and they have bore me many wonderful children, but I must be greedy, I always want more. I also want to begin Seleucid gaining some influence overseas, a Lodjain noblewoman would be useful in my family." Ekatarina was surprised at where this was going but did her best not to show any reaction.

"So you want me to find you a Lodjain noble woman to marry?" she asked not fully sure what was being requested.

"No my dear, I have a woman in mind, you" he said plainly clearly used to getting his own way, "A beautiful woman, intelligent, I get two wonderful step daughters too, expanding my loving family." Ekatarina blushed, this hadn't been what she expected at all. "You'd be a Queen, a Duchess and the mother of not just a future Duchess, but a Prince or Princess. The Kings other hand touched her knee and instintcively she moved back, "I am sorry, I am an old man after all and you a beautiful younger woman" the King removed his hand and placed it back on the table.

"I am flattered Your Majesty, its an honour" she was racing through what could be done, "However I think there may be a barrier, perhaps I'm wrong" she wasn't sure whether she wanted that barrier to be removed or not but had to be honest, "In Lodja women can have many husbands, I already have two, you would be my third, I'd be delighted to take you, but is this a problem." She wondered if she would regret how she worded it but she could always extracate herself later if the need arrived, her answer came rather quickly as the King eased back his chair and let go of her hand.

"That is a shame.....they are lucky men" he stood and mopped his brow, "I would have enjoyed having a wife such as you" he pondered what he could do next, "This does not have to be a deal breaker" he looked at Ekatarina, "Children is more I crave, but your company until I leave Mundus would be wonderful too. Youth of today say there is no issue having children out of wedlock, I don't neccessarily agree, but perhaps having a Mistress and a child would work, help me get the youth on my side hey." he teased her. "But perhaps then it would be best to find me another Lodjain noble woman." he resigned himself to not getting Ekatarina and sat down again as the main course of some lamb tagine arrived.

Ekatarina had been thinking, the title of Queen was useful, it could open all manner of doors, "Perhaps I need not look too long." She placed a hand now on her daughters knee. "Oksana here has no husband, is my heir so will one day be a Duchess, currently holds the title of Mayor, a very influential young woman in Lodja aren't you."

The younger girl must have looked like a deer in headlights, there must have been a good fifty year if not sixty year age gap between her and Akakois and now her Mother was apparently offering her to a King like a bargaining chip. "I....We....I guess so" Going against her Mother would be a big no no and after all the purpose of marriage wasn't just love and procreation, Sessifet herself had used her feminine ways to get her own way and Oksana knew one day her mother would likely marry her off.

"Really" Akakois stood once more walking to Oksana's side of the table and looking at her, she was a pretty young girl with fine blonde hair and sparkling blue eyes, much different to the women of Lodja. She was quiet young looking for her age too, at first the King had thought her in the late teenage years but had been surprised she was 23. "She is a beautiful woman, gets it from her mother no doubt" it was rather sleazy for Oksana and she felt herself feeling sick. "Very well, if your daughter will take this silly old man I will make her a Queen."

Before Oksana could reply Ekatarina responded, "Oh, she'll be so excited won't you." she squeezed her daughters hand until it felt like the bones were rubbing together.

"Of course" Oksana looked at the floor, imagining herself now becoming part of this man's hareem of sorts. She felt the King take hold of her hand and kiss it.

"I look forward to it more than anything" the King motioned for a seat to be placed and sat next to his bride to be, suddenly he burst out laughing, "Now my darling" he mockingly whispered to Oskana, "We must say nothing about the fact I just tried to seduce my Mother-In-Law okay? It would not look very diplomatic" Ekatarina chuckled despite not really finding it funny. "My son will be rather jealous, I think he believed that I would marry him to some beautiful foreigner, but when a diamond is offered you then you don't pass it on" he kissed Oksana's cheek "We shall make him feel better though, we shall name our first of many son's after him." The King   was clearly pleased with how things turned out, as was Ekatarina, she had her added influence of being able to call herself a "Queen's Mother" she wondered if such a title was used here as it was back home, and furthermore she had her business partner of great influence, and all it had cost her was one of her daughters, she still had a spare.

[Snackz]

The pair decided to leave, due to issues happening in Artyomov and the way they felt about the place they were visiting.
"Another time we should visit. I am not a big fan of this place." Maxim said as he unlocked the car.
"Sure. I think we should visit a colder place next too. Anyway"

[DaveIronside]

Back in the main chamber Crown Prince Hadi and his wife Korina bid farewell to the two men from Artyomov, each of them left loaded down with a selection of fine delicacies, bottles of wine and a bolt of fine silk. It was tradition that a guest never went home empty handed and while the gifts were not the highest of value they were all locally produced and something of the home they had visited. Once the two men had made their exit it was the Crown Princes wife Korina who began to speak. " My husband has been giving the Ecclesiastical States proposal some thought haven't you darling." she placed a supportive hand on his bare arm.

"Indeed" Hadi mused, "In principle we have no major concern, a deal opening up your markets to our companies and vice versa would seem a wise move, but we must look beyond this. You see it has come to my attention that your nation has recently attended some event or something in The Iwi, while we do not wish to tell you who to be friends with the nature of this visit, apparently one of your people joining a tribe or the like." he shrugged his shoulders as he frankly didn't care about those stupid Maori. "Now a lot of our business people are veterans of the.....times ourselves and the Iwi enjoyed closer relations..." Hadi tried to say diplomatically, "As such with recent actions our fear is that any of them visiting your nation could fall into Maori hands, you saw what that barbarian did to that man on the beach....beat him to death with a club, there is no honour in that." Hadi shook his head, "I would not written assurances that no former member of Seleucid's armed forces in your nation on business will be handed over to the Maori, any suspected of wrong doing are to be repatriated here if you believe the Iwi's claims." He waited for the response.

Hadi turned to Orion, the boy seemed far too immature to be an Emperor soon, too emotional. Hadi felt a pang of jealousy, he was almost three times this childs age he guessed and he had no power of his own. The problem was Hadi had to push those thoughts down, the boy was soon to be someone important. " Danyal can spend as much time as can be arranged before his training starts, perhaps you can put him in with those cadets or something, teach him some discipline yes." Hadi smiled, he'd been a rather mischievous young man, never anything more than silly little adventures but he knew too well his father's wrath. "We'll make the arrangements once we return to the capital. You should come and see the Lake Palace sometime, much cooler and less dusty than this place, its my personal favourite" Hadi boasted proudly about the seemingly floating white palace, which in truth sat on a piece of bedrock in the almost centre of a lake not too far from the coast.

Hadi had left the man from ES pondering his decision regarding their trade talk, he turned his attention back that way but before he could speak his father reappeared, the Lodjain girl Oksana holding his hand, an aide had briefed the King on the ongoing nature of the discussion before he re-entered, "Friends I have wonderful news" he beamed as he placed and arm around his wife to be's shoulders, "I have longed for more children for years now, Queen Samira gave me my wonderful boy here, Queen Yanna gave me two wonderful daughters, and Katerina there" he pointed to the favourite of his three wives who was sat relaxing on a couch watching the world outside the door and now turned to smile at her husband, "has given me a wondrous young son, but what father wouldn't want more joy. Thankfully as child birth is a young ladies game I have the joy of taking Lady Oksana's hand in marriage, we shall be wed and add to my proud beautiful family." Katerina and Hadi looked each other with raised eyebrows, there had to be a good 40 year age gap between the King and his wife to be. The King sat down and motioned for Oksana to sit on his knee, she hesitated and looked at her Mother Ekatarina who urged her to sit, and she awkwardly did so. "So Your Holiness knows our conditions.....are they acceptable?"

[The Young Pope]

TYP knew that they had to arrive at that point sooner or later, when matters of interest could conflict with each other, in this case the old rivalry between the Seleucids and the Maori, his holiness wished that conflicts of such a nature didn't need to destroy the agendas he represented on behalf of the Ecclesiastical People and the Lord himself for the Christian cause. "Of course, I swear on the Holy Trinity that no Seleucid armed forces' members shall be detained and sent to the Maori if they ever visit our nation. After all, like I always say, it's between your Divinity and yourself and only the persons who committed any sort of sin is held accountable to that, it's not my place nor time to judge; if the Maori somehow voice their opinions, I shall say the same thing I've done in front of you here and now, also just a minute detail I was in fact made a member of one of their supreme tribes. Have to tell you that they're quite nice people to hang out with, if only bickering of mankind would stop perhaps we could look beyond each other's faults and instead enjoy what we find in each other."

The Pope satisfied on what he had to say, turned his attention towards the King while waiting for the agreement to be signed in full approval from both sides. "I would like to congratulate his majesty for choosing such a suitable, beautiful and adorable bride, may the marriage turn out well and provide his most glorious majesty with many offspring."

[Norgeras]

Albrecht had to bite his tongue not to grin from one ear to the other when Prince Hadi actually addressed Orion directly. He was proud his little Emperor to gain that much respect even though he  had a little mishap earlier, before nodding to the Prince. He was about to declare their Departure to Finalize their little Jewelry deal, when the King entered with his newly soon to be Wife:

"Congratulations are in Order." Albrecht said, while Orion still seemed to work out the Scene in front of him in his Head: "Yet we have to take our Leave. There is a Several Million Jewelry Deal waiting to be finalized." Pushing Orion gently out before too many Question could be asked, Albrecht nodded: "Thank you for your Hospitality, this Festival is Intriguing in more ways that i had anticipated."

[Tamed_Untamed]

Entrance

The Sirinisian private passenger jet carried Rosasoro and her guards as well as her own secretary and personal assistant. She sighed as she realized she was going to be away from her sister again. Rosa looked out of the window as her jet was halfway across the distance to get to this country. She read more and more about it as she travelled, wondering about the festival.

[DaveIronside]

"Well I would hope young sir" King Akakois began, "That you will soon be back among us, as an Emperor no less, to attend the wedding I plan to hold, it will be a grand event for sure and you would be most welcome, all of you" the King rose and went to shake Orion and Albrecht's hand. "And you tell whoever you have employed that should they swindle you or not provide satisfaction they shall have me to deal with. I will only have the best for my friends" the King was in a joyous mood as he had staff load the pair up with food for their journey and rolls of silk. "Do not be strangers" the King said as he walked them to the door and waved them goodbye.

Across the ground between the stalls and the Palace entrance Akakois saw  King Lapu viewing the goods on offer, the King caught the eye of the stall holder, pointed at the King and then tapped himself before pointing to his eye, indicating that these people where connected to him and that he would be watching the middle aged man who was preparing to unlock a case to show something to the King. The man placed a hand on his chest gently and nodded his head indicating that he would do the King proud. "Your Majesty, I have things fit for all tastes, all people and even men as great as you." he removed a tray containing around ten rings, each glittering gold with gems of various sizes  and colours, next he placed a bracelet tray down, some simple but elegant others inscribed with verses from the nations religious texts, "These I think you will not want" the man said as he picked up one of the gold bracelets, "The text is from our religions teachings, a reminder to use the hand it is attached to in order to end suffering" He handed it to the King, "It is inlayed with Onyx, a beautiful piece yes" he watched as the King looked at it, "I show it you because such craftsmanship the  joining of the two is highly prized, and I can have my smiths make any inscription you wish, we only need the words and a week." While he left the King examining it he pulled more trays from the cabinet, cufflinks, watches, tie pins, even a pen with various precious metals. "Is there anything Your Majesty dreams of having?" he asked hoping to gain a sale.

The King returned to the meetings, Oskana had been brought her own seat now and the King was intent to roam the room, he much preferred to be on his feet and busy. "You see Pope while I would not doubt your word you are not known to my people in your dealings, you are someone of a foreign faith to us. I would require such an undertaking as you have given verbally to be put in writing, a contract is something of great importance in our societies legal structure, as such no written undertaking and well I am afraid to say no deal. Give that written undertaking and we may even be able to forgive you being a Maori" the King laughed heartily as he crossed to the Pope, "We know you're better than their savagery so I jest, I am sorry" he grinned as he sat next to the Pope and produced a notepad and pen from his pocket handing them to the Pope, "Write down what you would have the agreement say, I shall have my staff make the proper papers and then we can sign it and make all this good stuff happen." The King got to his feet again and returned to his seat next to his future wife just as Rosasoro entered.

"I am afraid madam I am not familiar with who you are, that is my loss" he crossed and took her hand gently shaking it, "please come this way, take a seat, have a drink, some food. Anything you require just ask" he put her into his own seat next to Oksana. "So, how may I help you?" the King asked taking a seat on a low couch. 

[Major Jaws]

The King observed the cufflinks very carefully. Indeed, these are delicately designed by these people. However, with all the jewelry, he was only interested in one item. "I would like to ask, how much would I pay for this watch?" He grabbed the gold-plated watch and saw diamonds, emeralds, and sapphires encrusted on it. "And if you could point me to a shop that sells crowns or swords, I would buy this cufflinks and watch and pay double the price." He said, and upon hearing this, one of his staff grabbed a cheque to be readied.