Author Topic: The Charge of the Clans  (Read 4946 times)

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Offline RobertAgira

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The Charge of the Clans
« on: October 12, 2017, 11:00:35 AM »
350 years ago today

It had taken quiet the march, four days it had taken the Highlanders, men who having done their duty to the Order of Mountjoy in their youth had retired to the peaks their people loved so much. They had spent their twilight years wandering the hills, tending their sheep and playing their pipes, but much had changed of late. The homeland of the order, what had once been a funnel for those from Albion and Ardia heading to the Holy Land had an enemy force loose, and they had trapped what remained of the Order's leadership in the Citadel of St.John. The Order was spread across Mundus, as it often was and no real standing army existed on home soil. The Latin and Nordic Brothers had been first to respond, the few Celts there had managed to get word out knowing that their Brothers in these peaks would never let them rot under siege. That was why now the band of 800 Highlanders, each dressed in the tartan of their clan, a reminder of their ancient family ties with lands such as Ui Cenneslaig. Each wore what protection they could but that had never been the Highland way, beside the siege lines were facing the citadel, not the countryside. The clans began gathering through the night and now as the sunrose over the horizon a morning mist hung on the ground, amongst them was Thane Murdo Lascelles, the only nobleman among the farmers and ex-soldiers. Word had come a week ago that his father had been killed during the "Purge" of the Order that had come without warning, he had been defending Pilgrims in the Holy Land when a fellow soldiers dagger had found its way between his ribs, one more member of the Mountjoy's killed because they had become a military threat.

Young Murdo had a horse, and it made him stand above the mist, behind him the various Highlanders began arranging themselves into a battle line, it had been hard sneaking to this farmhouse at the foot of the hill but now they readied themselves, long heavy swords were strapped to backs, dirks and targes, the ancient highland weapons made ready. A few men had heavy muskets but these men were now persuaded to leave them, this would be fast work and there was no time for such modern contraptions. "Sir, you should say a few words." A long grey haired veteran of many campaigns urged the young boy.

"But....I'm....its my first battle" the boy mumbled.

"Aye it is" the old man smiled, "But we all have to start somewhere, the men respected your father, he brought you up right. It's what they need." Murdo nodded reluctantly and reigned his horse round.

"Highlanders and brothers. Today the Order which we love changes, we break free from the control of those who have grown jealous of what we do, the glory which we gain. All we have to do is walk up a hill.......we're Highlanders, for us that is easy." the group cheered but Murdo raised a gloved hand. "The enemy don't know we're coming, this mist will cover our numbers and once we hit their lines they shall think the very gates of hell have opened and banshees assail them. We are now banshees, today we are God's avenging angels, we come to destroy those who stand against our work, against Gods work. I pray that St. Sebastian guides your arms as we free ourselves to once more carry the cross of God against those who bring tyranny, to carry the cross to bring aid to the weak and to show the world that all those who stand against Highlanders will not see another day." A loud cheer erupted and the line began beating weapons against each other or their small shields. "Pipers!" Murdo yelled felling the excitement rise. The twenty pipers they'd brought began playing, a shriek at first and then into a marching tune, the line moved forward without a word and began its march of the final mile through the mist.

The enemy heard the pipes, that was the idea, the sound of their deaths approaching unseen from the lowland. Some 4,000 men held the Citadel at siege and upon hearing the familiar sound the spirits of those inside lifted. "Get ready!" Knight Commander Ricardo Veresai yelled at the men who had spent the last month under siege. "The Highlanders! They're coming!" he hurried around the citadels artillery marked battlements rousing those inside, without a word from him a lone piper began playing, he turned to see that a young Highland Lancer had scrambled up to the top of the keep and their alone under the Order's banner was playing the same tune as that raising in the valley, a homing beacon to those approaching and a symbol of the citadels defiance. The besieged men heard it first, before they saw it, a terrifying scream that sounded chilling before just brief seconds later the sound of a musket shot and then steel on steel. "Rally! Rally!" Ricardo yelled as his men gathered in the courtyard, "We sally forth!" he exclaimed as he donned his own breastplate and picked up his sword. Seconds later the men we're ready and the gate opened, the 250 men of the Citadel charged the enemy to join their Highlander brothers in the fight.

The fight lasted several hours and throughout the piper on the citadel played. Murdo Lascelles horse was shot from under him and as the mist lifted just as the battle ended with the enemies surrender his men found him, a lifeless arm hanging at his side. They carried the boy inside the Citadel where surgeons removed the useless limb. That evening he begged to be allowed to die, "God has a plan for you boy. Today you lead our Order into nationhood, we have a new flag thanks to you" Ricardo held the boys hand as he talked, "the cross of our order on a field of red, your blood, next to it a field of orange, the courage and sacrifice you Highlanders showed the world. Beneath the cross two laurel's that symbolise our victory here today......your victory." Ricardo stood and withdrew his sword, Murdo hoped it was to end his life, after all how was a one handed man expected to become a soldier? "Today Murdo I grant you a Regiment, The Lascelles Highlanders, and I name you their Chief Knight, lead them well in the work of our Lord. I Knight you and remind you of your duty to God and your brothers" he tapped Murdo lightly on each shoulder. "So now you must live and lead your Regiment to glory."



Modern Day

Hugo Lascelles enjoyed this day, "The Day of the Charge" the day his beloved nation had come into existence, somehow it felt right that a Lascelles was the leader of the nation on its 350th birthday. He felt pride in his chest as he stood on the spot before a statue of the great Murdo Lascelles, leader of the charge, General of the Highlanders, the Wrath of God, he smiled at the thought of the 15 year old commanding such an insane charge, uphill, outnumbered, but it was amazing what you could do with God on your side. Behind the statue of Murdo stood 799 stone pillars, each waist high and each bearing the name of a Highlander and several covered in flowers and garlands. A large crowd had gathered as was customary on this day as the people of Mountjoy retraced the steps of those men.

Today was different, it was a beautiful crisp Autumn day, the ground was firm and while it was bright there was still the fientist chill in the air, it was what his grandmother would have called "a fine soft morning, good walking weather". While he had took part in this walk every year since his birth this was the first where he would lead the nation, and he hoped the world.

Unlike other years invites had been sent inviting the world to come and join in this celebration of their nations birth and the establishment of their own Orders independence. He was dressed in his own military uniform, slightly more snug now than in his time of service but a Highlanders non the less. He chatted with several serving members he recognised as he waited for the cars from the airport to arrive, maybe not the most glamorous of first meetings with a new nation, a muddy field, a stone statue and 799 stone pillars, but that didn't matter, the Highlanders were about to charge and that sight was one he wanted the world to witness. 

Offline Norgeras

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Re: The Charge of the Clans
« Reply #1 on: October 12, 2017, 10:12:06 PM »
Erik Schulz didn't just come here to celebrate a Nation, he came here because he needed guidance. Wearing his ceremonial Knightly Tabbard with the Trinity Orders old Heraldry, a regalia that probably had not been seen in this Nation since it was founded.

It was ironic that he came to them, celebrating their independence, as he had just announced their own. He didn't really know hwo t pull it off. He ahd the Abbots on his side, and most of the remaining Monks. Technically the order was running three Hospitals and one Boarding School, but their public image was in shambles and their funding effectively gone. He got out of his car a beggar, a man needing help to undo the harm some of the people he himself had neglected caused. But for now, diplomacy would play. Smile, shake hands, marvel at the scene.

"I am honored to be your Guest." Erik said, as he greeted their host: "The Trinity Order send their prayers to Mountjoy on their National holiday."

Offline RobertAgira

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Re: The Charge of the Clans
« Reply #2 on: October 13, 2017, 08:50:00 AM »
Hugo recognised the trappings of another order, while Mountjoy was obviously built around the Order of Mountjoy there were one or two members of various others around their homeland, often they were just visiting or here to make use of the nations extensive archives that were kept dotted around in various citadels that ran parts of the nation. Hugo approached and extended a hand, "Grand Master" he said recognising the trappings of status if not necessarily the Order. "You must forgive me, that is the Order of the Trinity isn't it?" he questioned as he guided the man back towards where people were gathering. "You must tell me the news of your Order? How goes things?"

Offline Norgeras

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Re: The Charge of the Clans
« Reply #3 on: October 13, 2017, 08:50:22 PM »
Erik smiled to the surrounding people but his voice was grim: "To be honest, not well at all. I came here hoping for divine Inspiration. A Child murdered by desperate Members of my Order, my sheep i have neglected and have allowed to be led astray. The Pope attempting to dissolve us after not giving a damn for the better Part of a Century. We have been founded back during the crusades as well for crying out loud. And now..."

Erik took a break breathing long and slowly: "The shambles that remain decided to cast of the shackles the Pope has cast on us. We haven't been what we should be, protecting the innocent, fighting for those who can't fight for themselves. We where just a bunch of rotting Monks twiddling their thumbs. I was twiddling my thumbs contempt being mostly a bishop, and not fulfilling the role i was given. Now my Order only has the Grand Master it Deserves, and not the one it needs. Yet i have to become the later."

Starring at the monument Erik nodded: "We need someone like him, so i hoped to learn from the past here."

Offline The Young Pope

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Re: The Charge of the Clans
« Reply #4 on: October 13, 2017, 09:22:26 PM »
Secretary of State, Adalberto Giancola, was representing his holiness Pope Peter II and the Ecclesiastical State to celebrate the Day of the Charge with his fellow Christian Mountjoy brothers including Grand Master Hugo Lascelles; he was going to give Lascelles a box containing as beautifully, ornamented chalice, it was then he surprisingly saw Erik from the supposed-to-be defunct Holy Trinity Order that was still claiming legitimacy and broke with the holy father, which has prompted surely an excommunication. "Well well, look at that pagan Christian snake spreading malicious rumours and lies, *sigh* just like usual, always the case with disapproved Christians, break with the Papacy whenever you don't agree with something or having teenagae hormonal imbalances" he told himself while being escorted by the Guardians of St. Peter's throne, clad in elegant renaissance-inspired uniforms, carrying their halberds as a symbol of their grandeur and might. A muddy field, a stone statue, 799 stone pillars and a bunch of brave highlanders...what an interesting day to celebrate Giancola added for himself, he was there out of courtesy and respect although the Celestian Catholic Church always saw it awkward to send a representative there due to its connections to the decision to break with the Pope in Celestis, despite the peace and collaboration there is between ES and Mountjoy. Giancola presented himself to the two gentlemen, Lascalles he smiled to while emitting a neutral tone to Erik. "I hops his dear excellency will like this gifted, the best craftmanship from ES, all for the glory to Christendom itself!"

Offline Libby

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Re: The Charge of the Clans
« Reply #5 on: October 13, 2017, 10:25:40 PM »
Niklaus Corrino had been given very clear instructions since the East Moreland incident when the Swordmasters had gone after nuclear waste, he had to make friends abroad. The Sisterhood suspected they may not be so secret forever and when that time came having a few friends could be useful. As such Niklaus had used his influence in the Ui Cenneslaig business community to get himself a few introductions around the place and now he'd got himself here, a fellow Celtic nation celebrating it's independence and being a wealthy businessman he'd splashed around enough money to get himself an invite. He'd arranged and funded a few banquets for the less fortunate, after all helping the poor seemed to appeal to these Christian types and it got you noticed.

Niklaus had even dug out his O'Hogan tartan for the occassion, a cover identity that hid the fact he was the Duke of Seitch, a city he had never seen but longed too. Dressed in a matching tartan dress was his wife Agatha, she had found it funny that a man who in the eyes of Christians everywhere would be an adultery on an epic scale if they knew, had been sent to meet with a nation built on faith. "Tell him you've practically got three wives." she whispered in his ear as they approached the growing official party.

"I have one wife....you know that" he stopped and kissed her, it was true he had two Honored Matres and of course their was an emotional attachment to Nicole and Niveden but nothing close to the love he felt for his wife.

"I'm teasing" she smiled as they resumed their approach.

"Good morning Knight Commander Lascelles" Niklaus extended a hand, "My names Niklaus O'Hogan, I'm a friend of King Finley who asked me to come and pass on his best wishes, he'd have loved this" Niklaus made a play of looking around, "Sorry gentleman I'm not sure who you are" he extended a hand to Adalberto and Erik in turn. "I'm not a political type, I'm just fortunate enough to have inherited some land, a little money and a desire to invest it a little. It luckily meant I got to know my King and occasionally he sends me off on little trips like this, bonus being I get to meet lovely people like yourselves." He was babbling and Agatha placed a hand on his arm, a signal between the two that it was best he stop talking.

"It's always nice to meet new people" Agatha took over, she knew her husband well and given half a chance he'd have just gone on and on an irrational fear of people not responding meaning he gave them no chance. It always made her wonder what was going on in Niklaus head, he was a handsome man, and frighteningly clever, but he seemed so unsure of himself in public and that lead to him being..well...odd at times. "A lovely little box" Agatha said noting the gift the Secretary of State had just handed over. She could have rolled her eyes at the needless platitudes to their God, after all everyone knew he was just one of many that made up the Universe, his son Jesus a forerunner of the Kwizach Hadrach, the super being that would one day be coming.

Offline The Young Pope

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Re: The Charge of the Clans
« Reply #6 on: October 13, 2017, 10:51:51 PM »
"I'm Secretary of the State, Adalberto Giancola, directly from the Ecclesiastical State, Nice to meet you Mr and Mrs Corrino, yes I do know about you Niklaus...a whizz kid, a wise businessman and the helper for the poor, I would like to thank you for the latest banquets held in their honor, our Lord would appreciate it that much actually. Nice box you say? Indeed it is, thought it would be...rude...if I didn't come along with a gift you see, it's just a customary thing to do as to show that friendship and unity matters between all people, including Christian denominations...and their tendency to...squabble. " he said, taking a close look on Eric when specifying the "squabble" word, considering he was standing next to a man whose orders is currently not recognised by ES. Giancola also noticed the fact that the wife had to step in and sort of maintain the foundations of a successful conversation based on the body language. "Quite a nice O´Hogan tart you got there Niklaus, suits you perfectly hehe..."
« Last Edit: October 13, 2017, 10:58:21 PM by The Young Pope »

Offline Libby

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Re: The Charge of the Clans
« Reply #7 on: October 14, 2017, 12:44:46 AM »
"Your too kind" Niklaus said curteously his wife's hand removed from his arm. "The banquets are just a duty, I mean I've been fortunate enough to not have to really work in my life but I still think I should help others." Agatha had her hand hovering but he stopped talking long enough.

"Sadly we didn't bring a gift ourselves, we weren't sure whether today was a sombre moment or a joyous one, perhaps the Knight Commander here could tell us and we can make up for it next time." Agatha asked, "Perhaps if gifts are appropriate we could improvise one, I know today has a military origin, now what is it the Army back home say, "Improvise, adapt and overcome?" she left the question for a moment before smiling, "Perhaps if it is possible my husband here could fund a less fortunate Mountjoy student who is a descendent of these brave warriors to go to University? Would that be an acceptable gift for the occasion Knight Commander?" Agatha asked

Offline Glitchy

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Re: The Charge of the Clans
« Reply #8 on: October 14, 2017, 03:52:08 PM »
Since President Malcum Truman as off half-way across the world representing Sutherland in Artyomov and Foreign Minister Margaret Gillard was working on Trans-Ardian negotiations, Vice President Max Howard was next in line to represent the new Sutherland diplomatically. Although growing further and further secular by the day, Sutherland was still a majority Catholic nation, so Malcum saw it fit that Sutherland partakes in the celebrations. This would be the first time in quite a while that Max would travel outside of Sutherland, so he'd make sure to make the most of the festivities in Mountjoy.

Max, making sure to maintain his public composure, managed to find the group of representatives, the Ecclesiastic Secretary of State's attire sticking out like a black and red sore thumb. As he approached he was able to make out a little bit of gift-exchanging. It struck a cord in his brain, he remembered the text Malcum had sent him from Artyomov a few hours ago.

Don't forget to give them the boomerang m80. It's gonna be our diplomatic calling card, so don't forget it.

He made a mental note of it.

Max then walked up to the gathering leaders and diplomats presenting himself to Lascelles. "Good day from Sutherland, Lascelles." He said as cordially as could be. Max immediately began to draw out a mahogany wooden box. He opens it facing towards Lascelles, inside laying a boomerang, elaborately designed with Indigenous Sutherian art. "Please accept this on behalf of Sutherland. It's a boomerang, formerly an Indigenous Sutherian hunting tool, it's now a symbol of cooperation between the traditional custodians of our land and our modern inhabitants, now hopefully the rest of Mundus, particularly now Sutherland and Mountjoy." He bowed as he handed the box closed to Lascelles.
« Last Edit: October 15, 2017, 12:43:56 AM by Glitchy »
I USED TO BE LUVONIA

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Online Achkaerin

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Re: The Charge of the Clans
« Reply #9 on: October 14, 2017, 07:53:37 PM »
It had been a while since Kristina Ayanami had been abroad for something like this - not a summit but a celebration and finally something that she could rely on her education to help her with, the charge the celebration invoked thoughts of sounded somewhat similar to something from the Crusades where one of her own ancestors Erin Ayanami had played a leading role. She was still remembered over in Vanora and it was ticking towards the nine hundred year mark. However Kristina was just glad to get out from Artaxia and actually for once not get the chain of command delegation back home in Achkaerin. It was also an Ayanami family occasion as her husband Steven and daughter Rion were accompanying her, which was in itself a rare event given that they all led demanding lives. Also along for the ride was Alexandria Savage otherwise known as Alex, the former terrorist leader turned to the good side by Rion in the War of the Enlightenment, once the issue of Alex's mental illness had been properly addressed things had changed for her, and how given that she now worked as the Emperor's aide and bodyguard. She was sort of like a second daughter to Kristina and Steven and every bit a sister for Rion.

"Knight Commander Lascelles." Kristina said "The people of Achkaerin offer you greetings and friendship. I am Kristina Ayanami, this is my husband Steven, my daughter Rion and our family friend Alexandria."
"We weren't quite sure what to bring in the way of a gift as such things are customary on such an occasion" Steven said "I hope this meets with your satisfaction" he handed over a cherry wood box in which was a bottle of wine from the Artaxian vineyards as well as four specially cut silver goblets each engraved with the Mountjoy coat of arms, date, occasion and who it was to and from.

Offline RobertAgira

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Re: The Charge of the Clans
« Reply #10 on: October 16, 2017, 11:33:46 PM »
Hugo was rather proud of how Erik had spoken about his ancestor, it was one connection that had helped sweep him to the position of Knight Commander and at times it embarassed him. "Well rest assured from our own Orders experiences I can tell you everyone has a few bad eggs, it's part of any Orders mission to route these vipers out and break their damn necks." He realised his old militaristic ways of speaking had come out and he felt himself turn red. "Perhaps however we can look at a way of Mountjoy supporting your Order.  You see the homeland we have here maybe the domain of our own Order but we turn none away, a few small dying Orders have their homes here, they worship, they meet in fellowship and they did scholarly things that are beyond my understanding" he smiled, "Perhaps the Order of the Trinity would care to take a chapel here or something......but we can discuss that later." He noticed others now arriving.


He hadn't expected so many people to turn up all at once, he stood nervously as he watched a man in Priestly robes approach. A Catholic at that, they didn't get many of those here in Mountjoy but Hugo wasn't about to rock that particular boat. "Father Giancola" Hugo gave a stiff bow, "Welcome to Mountjoy, and thank you for the lovely gift, its somewhat of a tradition here that any gifts are displayed to the public so as long as its OK with you I'd like this to go on display in St. John's Basilica, its a small chapel close to our government building but is rumoured to be the place the first Knights of Mountjoy took their oaths so is rather a well visited little place." It was also the place that he had been sworn into office, in a ceremony that only around 200 people had been able to witness because of the places size. No sooner had he finished thanking the Papal representative than he noticed the next arrival.

"Mr.O'Hogan" he shook the mans hand and bowed to his wife after the introductions, being a Celt himself he liked what he knew about King Finley and if this man was his representative then so be it, the fact the man and his wife wore a tartan was enough to earn them some brownie points. "On behalf of the people thank you for the acts of charity, I hope we can repay it by showing you are hospitality while you stay here. And as for the scholarship I think that is an extremely generous offer and one I would be only too happy to facilitate. While I'm proud our young people here still embrace elements of our Orders doctrines I think we can be guilty of being too militaristic at times, as such we perhaps don't give educational excellence the credit it richly deserves."

Next a man he vaguely recognised approached, "President Truman I;m honoured to meet you" Hugo extended a hand, and as for the boomerang I look forward to testing it, maybe hunting some of our local Pheasants or something." He laughed, truth be told he was an awful hunter but had never had to rely on that skill, "In seriousness though as I explained to Father Giancola, we like to display gifts of the nation to the people, after all its to them your making this kind gesture. Perhaps we can put this in St. Hubertus Chapel It may be only a small place but he is the patron saint of hunting. Do you hunt?" he asked the President just before noticing the next arrival.

After Kristina's introduction he gave once more stiff bows, nobility was something that existed in Mountjoy but was generally tied back to ancient titles brought in from elsewhere across Mundus, by rights he was a Thane of some small part of Ui Cenneslaig but he choose never to use his title, mainly because he always spelt it wrong, but he was well aware of the courtesy due, "Your Ladyship we welcome you and your party." he began, "The gift is wonderful" he wondered about the nations traditions of placing gifts on display, how did you display the wine? Perhaps just the goblets would go on display, he'd work that out later. "Its beautiful" he handed them to an aide who took them away to arrange their display.

"I think its time" Hugo said glancing at how full the field around him had got, men dressed in kilts and women in tartan dresses were mingling, exchanging hugs and insults towards those in different tartan, that may have been concerning to the foreigners but the smiles, laughter and pats on the back for creative ones should have shown that it was all meant in good spirits, an old tradition going back hundreds of years of rivalry between clans. A few barbs came his own way and with a beaming smile and wave he deflected them away. "We're just missing one thing" he said with a cheeky grin as a military commander yelled instructions and the seemingly endless rabble of clansman arranged themselves into a large column, some 10,000 ready to make the march retracing the Highlanders relief charge of 350 years earlier. As they stood a fient echo in the valley could be heard raising as a long column of Pipes and Drums made their way along the road that lead to the memorial, some 2,000 drummers and pipers, ranging from children barely out their teens too the oldest, a proud 80 year old piper leading the way, his back ramrod straight with pride as he lead each clans pipe band onto the muddy field. It cast Hugo's memory back to that far off day when the music would have filled his ancestors soul and driven him on upwards up the hill. As the last note faded he knew it was his time.

Hugo climbed onto a small podium. "Today marks our nations 350th birthday, a day that our ancestors gathered on this spot, said their final prayers and putting their faith in God.....and some good old fashioned Highland steel....took on a force much bigger than their own. By days end they stood victorious and at the top of the hill gave thanks to God for bringing them safely through the day. It didn't mean none fell, 237 Highlanders gave their lives to give us a home and today we honour them." groups of school children stood next to some of the pillars and took their cue to crown those 237 with bunches of flowers. "This year however is different, we are joined by new friends, its funny to think that when young Murdo kicked back his spurs and charged it was to move us away from the world, yet today I will walk his route proudly side by side with these foreigners. The reason for that is simple, my great-great-great-great....you know what I mean, grandfather did what he did because it was the right thing to do to enable the Order to go about its work. Today we must reaffirm our desire to do exactly that, to do the Order and Gods work, but to do that we need to be part of the world, not a watcher of the world. So if the Pipe Major would do us the honour." There was a nod from a beast of a man dressed in a wolf skin who yelled in Gaelic and the pipes began. Hugo joined his guests, "If you'd care to follow me." he smiled as set off just ahead of the massed Highlanders and Pipers, as they marched out the memorial grounds the road up the hill towards the citadel was lined with people, the non-Highlanders of Mountjoy keen to pay their respects to the Highlanders. The nations flag fluttered in little childrens hands as they walked past. Hugo turned to the foreign guests as they went. "so what I said was true, we're done hiding away in our Churches, so simple question being what exactly do you want Mountjoy to be to you." he didn't break step as he neatly turned and walked backwards up the hill just ahead of the others enjoying the view of the Highlanders bright greens and reds against the scenery behind.


Offline The Young Pope

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Re: The Charge of the Clans
« Reply #11 on: October 18, 2017, 11:09:57 AM »
Giancola chuckled a little as he rightly enjoyed this important traditional spectacle of the Mountjoys, their proud history about fighting for their freedom to simply serve God according to what they believed was the correct way is simply admirable he thought; the highlanders playing on their bagpipes, chanting in the Gaelic language while performing their impressive-looking march was sure a sight to behold each year it was held in memory of their brave and honorable ancestors. Upon hearing Hugo's rhetorical question, "Well hehe, if you don't mind my dear friend Hugo, I think the Holy Father and yourself would want to keep and embark on this relationship we have beetween our two churches, no matter what we still believe in the same God and many practices alltogether, which is why it's now more important than ever to keep the Christian unity that all denominations have long fought to see this through after centuries of bitterless squabble and in-fighting amongst ourselves..."

Offline Norgeras

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Re: The Charge of the Clans
« Reply #12 on: October 18, 2017, 07:54:45 PM »
Erik simply smiled with a small nod, taking a step back as the papal emissary was speaking. He didn't intend to worsen his situation by going to anger him at this point, yet it annoyed him having to listen to that blabbermouth talking about christian unity.

Unity my Ass - Erik thought to himself, as he went to chitchat with the other guests. Hopefully no one would mention the fact some of his people had just thought it a brilliant idea to kidnap children, and panic murder one of them.

Awkwardly uncomfortable he tried to find a topic as non confrontational as possible trying to make conversation with the Group of people around them:
"I would be gad to be only half as sturdy as that Front Piper once i am his Age."

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Re: The Charge of the Clans
« Reply #13 on: October 20, 2017, 02:28:01 PM »
Kristina half smiled, these sorts of traditions were nothing out of the ordinary, she was well traveled enough to know that each nation had its own quirks and she'd been to a few of them. New instructions for matters like this had come down from the Marble Palace to build up Achkaerin's international relations make friends with nations they hadn't had much contact with. This was already well underway, she fell in step with the moving crowd alongside Steven, behind them Rion and Alex were stood looking around, taking it all in.

"I'd settle just for living to that Piper's age." Rion said with half a chuckle
"True." Alex said
"You two whippersnapper's stop talking about age." Steven said "You'll live that long and probably longer provided you take care of yourselves."

Offline RobertAgira

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Re: The Charge of the Clans
« Reply #14 on: October 22, 2017, 05:28:46 PM »
As the hill began to flatten out the Knight Commander began walking backwards marvelling at the throng that was climbing the hill, he was breathing a little heavier than normal and only imagined trying to do the climb at a run. As the citadel which gave the city its name came into view from its spot perched on the clifftop he could see the walls throng with people. Banners of various military units fluttered in the wind and as the group continued onwards the two artillary pieces that sat on top of the walls fired belching flame and smoke as they fired out into the bay. Soon after another two shots and the citadels gates opened, a large group of people made their way down the now gentle slope to meet them. At the head of the column strode Knight Master Vivian Lambert, the nations equivalent of a Prime Minister. As a non-Highlander she hadn't joined the group as they made the climb up the hill, instead she walked now with the various community leaders of the Latin, Germanic, Nordic and Black groups. It was strange that even though their Christainity and devotion to the Order brought them together there was still unique identities. Vivian was dressed in a bright coloured almost floor length dress, the fabric bearing a geometric pattern of yellow, green and red, she had a white shawl around her shoulders and beamed as she embraced Hugo. "Sir..." she sounded shocked, "Your getting very unfit, why I remember seeing you when you used to practically run up that hill" she teased him.

"Yes, government keeps me sat behind a desk too much" he smiled and began introductions, "This is Knight Master Vivian Lambert, she runs the government day to day and I tell her when she messes up.....which thankfully isn't often. We have five distinct cultures within our Republic, we all mingle and enjoy the best of each, Vivian here is the community leader of the Black Community, descendents of former slaves freed by the Order and given a chance to serve God."

"Welcome to Mountjoy" she shook hands with them all. "You've obviously meet the Celtic community leader in The Knight Commander here" she walked with the group to where the other three community leaders waited. "Vice Commander of the Household   Rúnar Leifsson, leader of the Nordic Community."

A large man with a beard and dressed in a simple white set of robes, the bottom of which was now splattered in blood stepped forward and shook everyones hand. "Our community were outcasts from Nya Aland and the former Kingdoms there because they refused to accept Paganism, we saw the Order as a way of embracing our warrior culture but serving God.....that and some 2nd sons saw it as a way of actually inheriting things." he explained, "Today we generally follow these lot" he motioned towards the other leaders, except we tend not to build Churches, God made the beauty of the outdoors for a reason."

"Next we have Vice Commander of the Household Daniela Rosa." the woman exchanged the formal handshakes and then spoke, "We of the Latin community see ourselves as the founders of the Order. We took up the call of Crusade in the 11th century, and the rest is how they say history. We generally see a history of us being less pleased with the route Christianity was taking and wanting to be a religion of action not words." she wasn't a fan of the Catholic Church but that was for another day. She'd proudly served in the military for nearly two decades and was still an active member in many veterans associations. Daniela strode back up towards the citadel with the rest almost automatically falling into step beside the others.

"Finally we have Charlotte Schmid Vice Commander of the Household for the Germanic community."

Charlotte gave a stiff bow rather than extending a hand. "My ancestor was First Sword of the Germanic Order of Mountjoy" she said proudly, Hugo rolled his eyes, there weren't many in the nation who couldn't trace their history back to some kind of important figure within the order. "It is my honour to welcome you on behalf of the Germanic members of the order" she seemed much more stiff than the others.

By now they had reached the citadel and a carnival atmosphere was present as a stage had a band of playing music while long tables filled the courtyard with people coming and going with plates of food. The smell of cooking filling the air. "I think we have an hour or so spare before the next part" Hugo announced as he looked around the courtyard for familiar faces.

"What his Grace means is he needs to catch his breath." Rúnar teased, "Come on Erik you look like you would need a pint" he took the man by the shoulder steering him across the courtyard. "Each community has a small hall here for special occasions, ours clearly has the best booze, the Germanic lot would argue otherwise but they make that lager swill, we make a mans drink....mead" he said proudly as he entered the candlelit hall in which members of each community in their own style of dress could be seen a man handed him two stone mugs of mead. "May God Keep you" he tapped his mug against the guests and found a bench. "So what bring you to Mountjoy, we don't get many Order of the Trinity types here."

Meanwhile Daniela had taken Giancola up onto the walls overlooking the bay and back the way they had come, hundreds of people still climbing the path and pipers playing, "Those damn bags of wind drive me insane" she shook her head. "So what brings the Catholic Church to Mountjoy?" she asked the pertinent question.
t
It was left for Charlotte to take the Achkaerin delegation to one side, they headed towards the Germanic hall, as they entered it was decerated with freshly cut tree branches and greenery, next to each table sat a small barrel. "Pickled cucumber, garlic and onions" she took the top off one as she sat down, "Not the nicest of smells up close, but tastes wonderful and goes great with beer.....ah here we go." A woman walked over with four giant steins of pale looking beer. "Oh....if you prefer we can find something else" she stood apologetically. "I'm interested to know the state of religion in Achkaerin, I understand you are not Christian, which makes your attendance here fascinating."

Offline The Young Pope

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Re: The Charge of the Clans
« Reply #15 on: October 23, 2017, 10:12:07 AM »
"Well Vice Commander Rosa, The Celestian Catholic Church has many interests into Mountjoy since it believes that Christian Unity is now more important than ever and thus our two churches could accomplish great deeds together...These winds sure leave me uneasy haha". It was a beutiful view from the top overlooking the bay, it gladdened Giancola that so many patriotic Mountjoys made the effort to do the traditional activities of the day, at least there was a sense of national identity and a Christian outlook on these people unlike other nations. "Which brings me to this question, is Mountjoy equally as committed for such unity to exist? Pope John Paul II's achievements can't be understated, I know that the "Travelling" Pope visited Mountjot at least once during his pontificate and truly stressed the necessity..."

Offline Norgeras

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Re: The Charge of the Clans
« Reply #16 on: October 23, 2017, 11:18:52 PM »
Erik cracked into a smile as he sat down: "We did it like most of our nation, holed up in Uburzis and wasting Time. Since God has given us a kick to the backside i decided to move out and see for myself how to renew the Order."

Eyeing the mead he smiled warmly: "Love that stuff, our order used to brew different beverages in the monasteries long before my time. But we only have about Five hundred actual Monks and Nuns left." He took a gulp from the Mug, sighing relief as the Mead met his throat: "To be honest i don't know really what i am doing here, just trying to figure out what to do with my People now. We basically just told the Pope to stick it where the sun doesn't shine when he tried to dissolve us. But i never thought what to do now."

Offline RobertAgira

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Re: The Charge of the Clans
« Reply #17 on: October 30, 2017, 09:38:55 PM »
Vice Commander Rosa felt slightly aggreived at the comment about whether the people were committed to unity. "I think if you knew more about our homeland you'd realise we've always had unity here. Anyone who follows the teachings of Christ and doesn't go against our Orders principles has been welcome throughout our history. I mean Lascelles has even made an offer this very day of the Order of the Trinity to establish themselves here if they wish. We may all practice in different manners but the end result is the same. For example unlike the Catholic Church we are less concerned with scripture and more concerned with a kind of living Christianity where our actions become our prayers" By now several more of the groups ascending the hill had reached the gate and she made her way down to greet them. "These are my former comrades in the 4th Light Dragoons" she walked with them into their groups wing of the Citadel. It was brightly coloured with tapestries and paintings on the wall, "many of these are still made today by some of our members" she gestured to a painting showing the Knights of the Order carrying a crucifix banner into Jerusalem from hundreds of years ago. "So" she sat down on a long bench and poured some wine from a bottle on the table and handed the glass to their guest. "I assume you came here with some kind of agenda, visitors on such occasions tend to, now you have my attention, and later this week Lascelles will have mine what do you think I can do for you?" she had poured her own glass and joined by a few members of the Dragoons she waited for the response.



Runar was pleased about Erik liking the mead, being part of the group who helped brew stuff here he was always happy to see others enjoying their beverages. "Its simple what you do with your people" Runar patted him on the back, "You bring them here, they take an oath that they will not attempt to undermine our Order and that they will stay true to the spirit of our Orders rules, clearly that means you don't have to follow them but it does mean you have to commit to charity to the poor, defence of the weak, care of the sick and trust in God. Do those things and I know Lascelles would grant you a Order Hall, it wouldn't be like the one here in the Citadel but it would give your people a home and chance to live as an Order. We're a welcoming bunch, I mean while we have the Order of Mountjoy here that dominates we also have the Order of Saint Stephen Pope and Martyr, Sacred Military Constantinian Order of Saint George and the Order of the Dove amongst others all living here side by side with us. Do it, then me and you can have much more mead together." he waved at a young girl who was topping up the jugs. "This is Emily, my eldest daughter, turns 19 in a few days and will be joining the Raphaellites if she passes their entrance test."

"When I pass their test" she smiled as she poured some mead into the cups and the jug, "Until then I've been a steward here, I make sure its kept clean, cook for the poor and pilgrims and sit with those who want to pray." she disappeared off back to her duties


Offline The Young Pope

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Re: The Charge of the Clans
« Reply #18 on: October 30, 2017, 10:09:25 PM »
"Well it gladdens me here that the dear Vice Commander and her people are adherents of the One, true faith and follow it what they deem is right. But I must say that it's incorrect to say that us Catholics only relied on Scripture considering unlike other Christian groups such as protestants, especially the hard-core ones, who're truly by-the-book types, we value both scripture, traditions and actions to fullfill the Lord's will so to say as all three of them are a form of prayer. I also believe that the Vice Commander has taken my comment too harsh for whatever reason considering my question wasn't intending to doubt the credibility of such reverence towards our Lord Jesus Christ, more like a question that needs to be interpreted as whether Mountjoy would be willing to consider the Ecclesiastical State and his holiness Pope Peter II as worthy friends and allies, fighting the good fight together in other words. Also, I'm glad you brought up the agenda of my visitation besides participating in this spectacle...I'm willing to discuss first of all a treaty between Mountjoy and ES to exist, what about the first points that shall be included is Trade itself which means more money for both of us, ain't that true?

The High Contracting Parties pledge to trade fairly with each other and to respect the lawful commerce of each party, neither of the High Contracting Parties shall create taxes, limits, bans, or quotas on the goods or services of the other party on basis of their origin from the other party, with exception to such taxes, limits, bans, or quotas created by international organizations of which the two High Contracting Parties are members thereof as well as The High Contracting Parties recognize the right of free commercial navigation through the waters and airspace of the other party, with adherence to local laws and procedures...What do you make the sound of that?"

Online Achkaerin

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Re: The Charge of the Clans
« Reply #19 on: October 30, 2017, 10:44:03 PM »
"Achkaerin's state religion is the Cult of Namis, we believe in a trio of Goddesses Namis, Kisara and Xiaoyu who took over the mantle from their fallen father Ezotl." Kristina said looking at Charlotte "I'm happy to try and answer any questions you may have but if you're interested in it I would recommend you ask someone in the Priesthood, they're far better qualified than me to answer any technical questions. As for our presence here, we're always eager to learn about other nations history and cultures this event provides an opportunity for us to get to know Mountjoy and to we hope explore the establishment of formal relations."

Offline Norgeras

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Re: The Charge of the Clans
« Reply #20 on: November 05, 2017, 12:05:48 AM »
Erik shook his head: "I would love to simply come here and join you, but i think i have a duty to fulfill - and that is to not just give up. We might only be a handful of Monks and Nuns, but we still own several Hospitals. Maybe in two or three Years if we can't find a way to reestablish ourselves, but for now, i think it's time to fight."

"You should have been fighting before Peter two kicked you out of your comfy chair." a woman with her arms crossed and an angry glare had approached the two men, seemingly dressed up as a tourist with shades and a wide hat:
"And maybe, just maybe, people wouldn't have listened to that Stupid idea of Kidnapping the most promising kids from a camp and trying to reeducate them in the christian way."

Erik sighed as he leaned back: "And would they have listened to me? I told them that it was a bad idea and that it was off the table from the get go. I didn't expect them to follow suit in a way that spells unchristian out so clearly. But you are Right, Sister Margaret. I should have been fighting the whole time, and not just wait for a Miracle to happen."

"You got your Miracle. Just one that is to remind you God does not take lightly to People who simply wait for him to fix their Mistakes. Also, it's just Margaret. I did leave the convent three years before that tragedy happened." She added snarly: "But it seems we did come to the same Place for the Same reason after all. Looking for new inspiration."

The woman turned to Runar, offering him a hand: "Margaret, former Abbess of the Last Trinity Order Nun Convent."

Offline RobertAgira

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Re: The Charge of the Clans
« Reply #21 on: November 12, 2017, 07:34:06 PM »
Vice Commander Rosa chuckled as the emissary from ES spoke of the Treaty, "I think there may be some miscommunication" the leader of the Latin community began to explain, "You see while I hold a high rank within our Order and have often the ear of the Knight Commander it is he who negotiaties treaties, I can tell you of course we'll be open to trade links and the Latin community in particular will support it." She thought for a few moment, "Let me explain the Order here in Mountjoy. Its essentially a government bound by service, at age of 18 anyone of any faith may join so long as they abide by our principles of  Spirituality, Meditation,Charity and Chivalry. Having served 18 months in either a military, labour, religious or health capacity you gain membership for life and permission to keep your rank forever. That is why I am a vice commander, I was a former engineer who helped construct several fishing ports. I haven't actively been involved in government for around ten years now, but having reached the rank of Vice Commander it gives me a good deal of access to the Lascelles or whoever holds his office, something I use to help my community, and should conditions be right you." It wasn't that Rosa was corrupt far from it, she just felt that one good turn deserved another. "So I think we should perhaps discuss what you could do for the Latin Community here."



"A pleasure to meet you Margaret" Runar shook her hand, "I'm Runar." he motioned for her to take a seat and summound his daughter Emily back over and had her pour the new guest a drink. "So if you don't wish to come here" the Nordic man turned his gaze back to Erik, "Then perhaps we can help you in your country. I know I'm not a day to day member of our government but I do get to meet with Lascelles rather often, perhaps if you have any ideas I can present them to him and we can see what we can do." He thought for a moment, "Like for example, if we sent some of our youngsters over to you to help you out somehow, we've plenty wanting to serve and willing to go wherever it needs."

Offline Norgeras

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Re: The Charge of the Clans
« Reply #22 on: November 12, 2017, 11:16:10 PM »
Erik and Margaret exchanged a mix of Glares and silent Questions, before Erik turned back to Runar:

"I could use help with reorganizing the Order. And reevaluating what our founders wanted us to be. Sending youngster might be problematic, considering what happend, i really think we just need to encourage the Christians left in Neu Uburzis ti embrace their faith, and that Christianity isn't a negative aftertaste of the past."

Margaret waved off: "Maybe ask Lascelles to simply come to the Coronation. He isn't as i'll received as Pete in the Public, and be a Symbol of how a Christian order can function with a modern State. Will you still play your role in the whole act Erik?"

the Man shrugged, gulping from his mug: "Don't know. i'd have to talk with the Regent about it, but i am sure the tiny Emperor wouldn't be to pleased having me close by during the coronation, even if i represent one part of the six."

Margaret grunted: "Of course he won't, but Albrecht is smarter than that. He knows it would gain way to much backlash to exclude you." before she turned back to Runar:
"I think the Trinity order needs to renew how it defines it's own role, and desperately needs an image makeover after the recent Tragedy. As Erik said, a favorable figurehead to lend us a helping hand might at least send the right signals."

Offline The Young Pope

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Re: The Charge of the Clans
« Reply #23 on: November 14, 2017, 09:41:57 AM »
*OOC: I'll have instead TYP instead of Cardinal Giancola attending...

TYP was truly mesmerised by not only the brains of Vice Commander Rosa but her outer beauty as well. Like with previous women he encountered, such as the Autarime Emperor of AT, he had a soft spot for women he considered to be on the same level as he his. He had the feeling that she wasn't so pious and holy as she projected, no he thought that perhaps she and him were of the same sort, ill-perfect people who tried to uphold the Christian faith no matter the cost, no matter the consequences...He took her and kissed it gently. "Forgive me for ever doubting your sincerity my dear Vice Commander, I'm impressed by your beautifully constructed fishing ports, there's no shawdow of a doubt that they were made by you...The Celestian Catholic Church and Mountjoy have much common with each other than we both might realize and now that you reminded me about this political game that is occuring between the various groups...I could perhaps be of great assistance towards the Latin Community...and yourself, naturally...if it's about funding...why I wouldn't mind at all, as much as you need...The Celestian Catholic Church has accumulated wealth for the past 1,984 years since the foundation of it all...sharing and caring for others isn't a strange concept, it's part of honoring one's Christian duty..."

Oh TYP had to let go of her hand, but she smelled so good, like a bouqet of Roses...which was funny enough considering her family name's Rose...perhaps it's the Virgin Mary herself trolling TYP...whatever the case may be...Rosa's the woman in his dreams he told himself. "Let me now present myself properly as well Vice Commander..." TYP began with his gimmick of his, a chance to better know him as a person.

I am Pope Peter II, Bishop of Celestis, Vicar of Jesus Christ, Successor of the Prince of the Apostles, Supreme Pontiff of the Universal Church, Primate of the Ecclesiastical State, Archbishop and Metropolitan of the Celestian Province, Sovereign of the Ecclesiastical State, Supreme Secretary of the Magisterium, Supreme Secretary of the Blessed Consistory, Servant of the servants of God. In other words, since I began my pontificate I'm the leader of the Celestian Catholic Church, 1 billion and counting faithful, more than 1/5 of the entire population of Mundus.

I'm a Contradiction...Like God, One in Three and Three in One...Like Mary, the Virgin, the Mother...Like Man, in Good and Evil...I have no sins to confess. My only sin is that my consciense has nothing to accuse me of anything. Some say that I'm certainly Strange...But I don't care about anyone's opinions if I'm up for the task, I don't care if I'm considered weak, a scoundrel. Some are afraid of me I've heard, but that's not exactly true...But it will be. Some claim that there are others running the entire show...In other words...Gossip *let's off a smile*. There are those who want me to resign the pontificate, as the Young are always more extreme than the Old. I'm always asking this question...who's betraying me? My answer is simple...tell me right now or you'll see the ruin of the Church. Am I a terrible Pope, the most dangerous in modern times they keep asking? I tell them...I'm ready to wage war without end against you!...*takes deep breath* I know everything a powerful man needs to know with the people he works with...and I'm the most powerful man of all..."

Offline RobertAgira

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Re: The Charge of the Clans
« Reply #24 on: November 23, 2017, 08:57:02 PM »
Runar sat silently as his two guests wrangled about internal politics of their homeland. He was glad to hear that the Christians of that nation seemingly still had a role in the coronation even if by the sound of it only a minor one. "It sounds that we have some issues back in your homeland" Runar stated, "If there is anything we can do then I'll put in a good word with Lascelles, he's a decent bloke, a little Spartan in a way, refuses all the trappings of his position. You talked about an image change back home? What manner does that take?" Runar looked at his watch. "Perhaps you can tell me as we walk" he motioned towards the door. "It's getting time for the evenings festivals." By the time they had made their way out into the courtyard of the Citadel there was a hub of activity around three great braziers, seven metal nets stuffed full of hay and fabric sat being arranged with a long metal chain attached. "Ah, this always makes great viewing." A series of comfortable benches had been arranged on the Citadels walls and Runar guided his guests up to one.

Meanwhile in the Latin section of the citadel Daniela Rosa rolled her eyes as the Pope went into some seemingly rehearsed monologue, frankly there was no need, they'd been together most of the day and there was nothing. As he spoke she began to count the sins she believed this man to commit, there was clearly lots of pride on show, the man bragging about his supposed power.  Then he compared himself to God, in her eyes blasphemy, and then bragging about being willing to wage war, not exactly sticking to the concept of turning the other cheek. She showed no reaction only wanting this to end. "Well as a nation not run by Catholic dogma" she stood and motioned for him to follow. "Our Order has stood alone....well apart from the few minor Orders who wished to join us here and work in Christs name" she motioned to a handful of others sat nearby who wore robes of other Orders that had small HQ's in the nation. "We have done well in that regard"

By now they had made their way to the courtyard and followed Runar and his guests up onto the ramparts. Soon all the other guests had assembled and wearing the black cloak of a Knight Commander Hugo Lascelles joined them. "I hope these fine folk have been taking care of you." he took a seat central in the bench. "This is an old tradition here in Mountjoy, taking cleansing fire around the Citadel." As if on key seven very large men arrived and finished preparing the incendiary mix. Each lit the straw and began rolling the metallic basket back and forth, soon they were spinning them around their head in a wide circle as pipers began a march out of the gates, each of the men began following one at a time, careful to leave large gaps between them. As they went crowds clapped them and cheered as they began walking the road that went around the perimeter of the castle. "They'll do this until the baskets either go out, their arms get tired or we all go home" the Knight Commander laughed, "Generally that means we've a few hours, but don't worry we don't sit here all night. Perhaps while we enjoy the sight you can tell me what Mountjoys next move should be on the world stage?"

Offline The Young Pope

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Re: The Charge of the Clans
« Reply #25 on: November 24, 2017, 12:20:02 AM »
TYP was already fed up and irritated, no matter what he did it always seemed the case that protestant Christians who weren't ES citizens seemed to harbour such hostile feelings for no reason at all; he leaned closer to the Knight Commander to deliver his justified complaints.

"Well I'd hope to see more friendlier cooperation and TONE with ES, my good Knight Commander, you see I've come here with an open mind and idea, with good intentions, yet I can't seem to agree with your statement that your host has taken good care of me so far, oh no, I can still sense such a hostile and disgusting tone of my mere presence and to think that this person here is to represent the very best of the Latin Community...'Well as a nation not run by Catholic dogma'...'Our Order has stood alone....well apart from the few minor Orders who wished to join us here and work in Christs name'...Well fine by me, BRAVO my dear Christian Brothers and Sisters...What am I supposed to say huh, sounds more like anti Catholic-rhetoric there I must say, and some of these statements need to be re-lectured! I'm asking for Christian unity and cooperation, both of our denominations have served the Lord's will for such a long time and this is the treatment we expect after all these years? I thought Pope John Paul II changed that perception, but I guess not..."

At that point TYP concentrated more on this so-called "entertainment" and didn't care anymore if the Knight Commander simply ignored his complaint about mistreatment and called him a liar and such. After a while TYP calmed down and further whispered:

"If you want our help, just say so, don't try to play with words as it can really cause some serious misunderstandings and conflict something in which you and I would love to prevent. I believe this Rosa here wants some help with the Latin Community? I don't want to be involved in some sort of political backstabbing here and risk ruining Mountjoy...I would also like to have some explanation as to what's going on politically wise..."
« Last Edit: November 24, 2017, 12:33:19 AM by The Young Pope »

Offline RobertAgira

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Re: The Charge of the Clans
« Reply #26 on: November 24, 2017, 10:57:18 PM »
Hugo leaned forward in his seat as the Pope spoke only sitting back once the diatribe was over, with a face not fully sympathetic the Knight Commander began to speak. "I apologise if my comrade gave any offence, but I fail to see what your issue is with what she said, our nation does not follow your own philosophical tenets or recognise your magisterium, as such what she said was true we are not run by Catholic Dogma, we don't share many of your own nations stances, for example you have made abortion illegal, we permit it only in cases of medical endangerment to the Mother. In your nation you have the death penalty, we believe that goes against what Jesus would command and so our Dogma forbids it, our two nations view the bible slightly differently and so as such a difference in Dogma is going to exist.  As for our Order standing alone she again is correct, we have not tied ourselves to any hierachical figure such as yourself, we manage our own theological affairs, we consult with a few smaller Orders who have made Mountjoy their home, and we don't force our Dogma on them or permit them to force theirs on us, we encourage fruitful and friendly discourse. Take Runar and Erik here, I understand they've found a path forward for our two nations based on their faith, yet both disagree on some Dogma otherwise our guest here would be signing up for The Order of Mountjoy as we speak." Hugo nodded politely towards the man Runar was flanking.

"You talk of co-operation, then taking insult at a woman pointing out our branches of Christianity have differences is not going to bring that about, had we not wished to work together I'd have never sent you an invite, the fact your sat on this wall is testament to my commitment. As asking for help, I don't believe I have. As for politics here its pretty simple, The Order governs all matters of day to day life, now each of the four communities clearly wishes to have a member of their own in higher office, it presents them with a direct ear to the top so to speak. What you need to remember though is our system also means each of the four communities gets the same number of people on the Council, one, so Daniela may have asked for help for the Latins, but nothing she could have actually got done would have given them an advantage, maybe the ear of a foreign nation that they could take the credit for getting deals and co-operation with, but thats all. Now the reason I asked for what Mountjoy should do next is simple, it's interesting to see what nations percieve about the best path for others, I personally find it interesting." Feeling he had said all he could in a reasonable tone he turned his attention to Erik and Margaret.

"I understand Runar here has offered you the support of our Order in re-establishing your own. Perhaps tomorrow we can show you some vacant real-estate, get you set up with an outpost here even if not a HQ."

Offline The Young Pope

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Re: The Charge of the Clans
« Reply #27 on: November 25, 2017, 12:51:59 AM »
TYP, while trying to enjoy the rest of the day's spectacle and basically move on from that moment of sourness and bitterness, he a bit of thinking regarding the rhetorical question asked by the Knight Commander. "Well to answer that, I'd say that Mountjoy together with ES should reestablish and reaffirm the presence of Christianity, one of the most fundamental and integral faiths that Mundus has ever hosted by the Allmighty Lord himself throughout the world, while at the same time respecting all religions who wish no harm and instead promote peace and harmonity amongst all. That includes acting upon the role of being the primary defenders of the Christian people all around the world from pursecution and ridicule;

I am considering to, with a grieving yet determined soul and heart, involve ES in the Phuebran conflict for example...militarily speaking; we already have sent aid there and our Nuns of the Blessed Immaculate Heart have done a terrific job thus far but our legitimate Phuebrans, Vaguziase and our allied Achkaerinese need our aid in defeating these satanics forces who steal, rape and murder our Brothers and Sisters there...it's time we put a stop to that and for example it would be the most appreciative if Mountjoy would aid the Catholic Church, let's once more show Mundus what it means to be a United Christian League and by the Will of God, smite those who would go against him and his faithful...and don't forget to show mercy as well hehe, almost forgot that point...Perhaps our other Christian brothers and sisters here *gesturing towards Erik and Margareta* would be interested to embark upon that path? I know that recent events have seriously damaged each other's trust, credibility, sincerity and understanding but I'd say Forgive and Forget, I'm willing to do so, all the Christians that I know of do so as well...it's up to you and we respect your choice no matter what...It's probably rightfully to late to reintegrate you back into the Catholic Church and I apologise that things went the way as it is...but do tell me if there's anything you need help from me or Mountjoy like how what he offered you know...just say so...". With that said, TYP realised that he had to let the others speak although he hoped what he said would turn the previous sourness into something...sweet and savory, well hopefully not of the evil kind that led Adam and Eve astray from the Perfect Union with God...if can cath TYP's weird thinking drift...as usual...hehehe...ha.

Offline RobertAgira

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Re: The Charge of the Clans
« Reply #28 on: June 15, 2018, 10:32:28 PM »
Retconned