White Palace and Vertfort

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White Palace and Vertfort; Home to the Imperial and Royal families
Topic Started: Aug 8 2007, 09:21 PM (3,106 Views)
MasterRuler	Aug 8 2007, 09:21 PM Post #1
Wow... I just figured this out... Posts: 1,267 Group: Administrator Member #32 Joined: November 30, 2004	(A view of the Outer Palace Entrance from Esto Gaza Square) An Overview Behind the Curtains Vertfort and White Palace are nearly in the center of the city; to the west of the Civic district, north of the Waterfront, east of North Kilou and smack dap on the north east corner of Esto Gaza Square. Yet, despite the urban setting, the complex is surprisingly rural. One of the largest, short term causes of the revolution was the distance that the people felt between themselves and their monarchs. Thus, the house of Rlugia-Novendot decided to relocate to the city. However, despite the fact that they wanted to be closer to the people, it’s obvious that the royal family wanted some privacy. Thus, Vertfort Court came to be. Nestled between three major city districts and guarded (conveniently) not only by it’s own walls, but by the Walls of Esto Gaza and the walls of Saint Leonora, this vast, palatial park is well secluded. Vertfort is divided into a series of regions. King’s mound, atop which the palace is built, rests itself on a hill (unofficially known as Queen’s hill. This is a bit dirty as the King’s mound is on top of the Queen’s hill-a joke that gave rise to the unofficial name itself). The Main Palace and Palace gardens sit upon this hill, as do the ten Megerons of the eldest Jaran tribes. In addition to the palace, there are a number of houses that the highest born live in. Though each house is built in the style of a grand manor or plantation house, the scale is to a much smaller degree, which lends Vertfort a charming quality of a fairy tale village. King’s Village Hill is a small gathering of handsome villas and manors. The King’s village is built on a wide pavilion, which rests on another hill. To the south of King’s Village Hill is Queen’s Village Lake, another clustering of handsome houses that surround a fairly large, man made lake. There are a number of larger, less quaint mansions, Villas and manors that are scattered around the grounds outside of King’s and Queen’s village. To the East is Jaran Hill, where the most prominent Jaran tribes have huge Megerons in which they come during the planting season. The Forest is to the north and provides entertainment for the nobles. Despite all these delightful details and accommodations, the Empress, when she built the palace, was mindful that even if she lived in the middle of the city, hiding behind walls would be just as alienating as if she and her husband took up life again in Mystice. Thus, she came up with a brilliant idea. All that has been described previously, the mansions, the villages, the palace and gardens are what is referred to as the Inner Palace. However, to house courtiers and to give the appearance of an open monarchy, she created an Outer Palace. Built on the portions of King’s Hill that are outside the walls of the estate, the Outer Palace is a series of apartments, suites and halls, that have been bought up by courtiers and haute bourgeois. Despite the fact that the outer palace is little more than an crown-sponsored apartment complex (it’s built over and into the district-separating-walls themselves so that all the chambers and corridors are connected to one another), the people see it as a symbol that they have access to the crown. The outer palace is built in the same style as the Main Palace, and in fact is such a symbol for the crown, that it’s more recognizable nation wide than the inner palace. Though the Main Palace Gate is accessible through the Waterfront, there is another entrance through the Outer Palace in Esto Gaza Square, so that the monarchs may pass in and out of the heart of the city with ease. The Grounds (A view of the Inner Palace) 1-The Imperial Megeron The Imperial Megeron is the home of the Novendot tribe, a branch of the Rlugia-Novendot family. Within this structure (built in the Northern style), lies the one room palace of the Emperor of Meria and the lavish yurts in which his family lives. 2-The Great Rlugia Fountain An icon of the palace, the Great Rlugia Fountain is a huge fountain which was taken from Mystice, and symbolizes the rule of the Rlugia dynasty. 3-The Little Rlugia Fountain Built to emulate the little Rlugia fountain, this fountain is a smaller offset to represent the humility that the royal family feels to it’s people. 4-The Temple of Cytheria and Odelia The Clayre are as much part of the palace as anything else; they are the order to which the Empress belongs and a founding partner in the confederacy. Thus, their goddesses who happen to be the ancestors of the Empress, are honored. 5-The Reflection pool of the Clayre This is another way to honor the heritage of the Empress. 6 and 7-The Ceremonial South and North Formal gardens These gardens are a lavish ode to the country in this most urban of scenarios. The gardens, like the Great Rlugia fountain and a number of other details of the palace, was inspired by those of Mystice. 8- The Grand Reflection Pool This is an elegent homage to the artistry that has gone into the construction of this most regal of residences. 9-The North Informal Garden This is a smaller, more homely garden that rests between the Imperial Megeron and the Megerons of the Jaran tribe. The Imperial Megeron over looks this quaint display of botany and provides a charming character for the Imperial garden. 10, 11 and 12, 13-Vertcourt Proper, Vertcourt Way and the Reflection Pool Vertcourt Proper is the official name for “Queen’s Hill”. Vertcourt Way runs down from Vertcourt into Vertfort, where the rest of the court lives. The Vertcourt reflection pool is a ceremonial pool that represents the unity of Vertfort. King’s Mound is the small down atop Vertcourt hill. 14-The Queen’s staircase This staircase runs off of the King’s mound, to Vertcourt way. It’s an elegant staircase, and a noteworthy detail of the palace proper. 15 and 16-The Imperial Pavilion Gardens and the Imperial Pavilion The pavillons (and gardens atop them) and built upon King’s mound, to provide solid ground for the Palace. This means that no matter where you are in the palace, you are above sea level. 17-The City Way This road leads to the main entrance in the Waterfront district. Despite the fact that this is the “main” entrance, most courtiers and supplicants use the King’s Gate, through the Outer Palace, from Esto Gaza Square. 18, 19 and 20, 21-The Walls and White Castle Gate Easily the most recognizable icon in all of Esto Gaza, the White Gate has become a symbol of Imperial Power. Serving as the main entrance in and out of Vertfort, White Gate is the most famous and arguably beautiful section of the Outer palace. Rising above the Gate is a huge castle, and even higher than that, a monolith that seems to reek with Royal splendor. The Castle, unlike the rest of the Outer Palaces, is reserved exclusively for the use of the Imperial Family and boats private apartments and suites for almost all the members of the Royal family, as well as state of the art offices for their staffs. 22-The Megerons The homes of the Daughter Tribes face the Imperial Megeron. The Daughter Tribes, including the Novendot tribe, are the ten eldest tribes out of all the Jaran and are thus the most powerful. Though they spend the off season traveling around Jeds and Odon, during the planting season they come to court. 23- Le Petit Palais The Chateau of the Queen Widow is more symbolic than anything else. Though she has a number of mansions and palaces throughout the Kingdom and the city, this small mansion (though half as large as the palace and larger than any other villas in Vertfort) lets the Queen Widow know that she always has a place with her family. 24- King’s Gate This is a huge hall that runs through the Outer Palace, from Esto Gaza Square into the grounds of Vertfort Court. It serves as an indoor shopping plaza, with a number of high end boutiques and restaurants. Tickets for tours of the Palace or any of the other four government buildings in Esto Gaza Square are sold here as well. Though King’s Gate is technically the “back door” of the Inner Palace, it is the most used. The First Floor The First Floor The first floor is home to most of the public, or state rooms. It is where the court (both those who live on the third story and those who live in the villas strewn throughout Vertcourt park) spend a good portion of their days. For lack of better words, the rooms on the first floor are the communal living rooms for everybody at court. 1-The Grand Hall The first room one enters, the grand hall is a souring chamber . There are two doors, to the north and the south, that let visitors either enter the northern Queen’s hall, or the southern King’s hall. From these corridors, the entire palace is accessible. 2-The Imperial Throne Room The Imperial throne room is the ceremonial heart of the Confederation of Sade. In it, the titular rulers of Sade hold court and hear important state petitions. .In addition, when the members of the Supreme Council of Sade come together to discuss matters of the confederacy, this is the room they use. 3-The Waiting Room The waiting room is where those waiting to see the King and Queen must stay before they are allowed to cross the Queen’s hall into the great doors of the throne room. One interesting fact is that the throne room is build perpendicular to the grand hall; there is no direct entry from one room to the other. 4-The King’s Salon The king’s salon is a popular, public room in court where the Serdian nobles, Jaran princes, Sudish planters and Merian squires all come to congregate. It’s something of a meeting place, where aristocrats enjoy one another’s company... and intrigue. 5-The Queen’s Salon The Queen’s Salon places a very similar role to that of the King’s salon. It’s the central meeting place for all ladies at court. Here they may sew, gossip, read, etc. It, like all the other rooms on the first level are public for all members of the court. 6-The Smoking Room The smoking room is very similar to the King’s salon. It boasts a full bar as well as a number of complementary tobacco products; everything from cigars to hookah. There are a number of rights that set this room apart. One must gain the King’s dispensation to use this room and one must be able to stand the “exotic” fumes of this chamber. Both of these make those who enter this room of a more exclusive caste than the rest of the court. 7-The Grand Ballroom The Grand Ballroom is, physically, much larger than the Petite Ballroom. Similarly, any event held in the Grand Ballroom is public to any member of the court, while the Petite Ballroom is home to private parties. Yet despite this, the Grand Ballroom is perhaps one of the most beautiful, and certainly one of the largest rooms in the entire palace. 8-The Retiring Room The Retiring room is something of a glorified corridor. It’s a fairly long, narrow chamber, that runs between the Petite and Grand Ballrooms During balls, ladies who are wearing from dancing, as well as their gentlemen partners and any other lords who tire of the festive activities, may escape the hectic merriment of the ballroom, for the cool and quiet repose of this most tranquil chambers. 9-The Petite Ballroom The Petite Ballroom is the smaller ballroom of the Palace’s two ballrooms. While the Petite Ballroom is used for personal celebrations of the Royal family or close friends of the Royal family, the Grand Ballroom is used on state occasions. Similarly, while the Petite Ballroom might be used for national events, any affairs involving all of Sade of the rest of the world will be held in the Grand Ballroom. 10-The Queen’s Hall The Queen’s Hall is the corridor that runs along the north part of the palace, connecting all the rooms together. Like the Hall, the Queen’s hall is different on each floor. 11-The King’s Hall The King’s hall unites all the room of the southern part of the palace. 12-The Royal State Dining Hall The State Dining Hall, is, in reality, rarely used. In the Imperial Suite, on the second floor, is a private, family dining room. However, on state occasions, where hundreds of nobles and foreign dignitaries are in attendance, this is the room that is used for them to all eat. An interesting tourist fact, the State Dining Room is an almost exact replica of that of the Imperial Keep in Hayholt. 13-The Kitchen The Kitchen is perhaps one of the most cutthroat lairs in the entire part of Vertcourt. The position of head chef commands a salary that trumps all of those but the highest members of the Imperial ministry, thus it is coveted by all cooks around the world. In addition, the Chef has complete control of all those working in his kitchen, from the Sous Chef, to the busboy. This combination of almost dictatorial powers and ridiculous sums of money means that the dishes that comes out of the palace kitchens are perhaps the best, and most artistic courses in the entire world. It also means that there is a great deal of intrigue and deceit that goes on here. 14-The Imperial State Dining Hall Also known as Graith Hall, the Imperial State Dining Hall is to the Royal State Dining Hall what the Grand Ballroom is to the Petite Ballroom. Though the Royal State Dining Hall is vast enough to sea a hundred, the Imperial State Dining Hall has a capacity for three hundred. Similarly, while the Royal State Dining Hall is invite only, the Imperial State Dining hall is open to all members of the court. 5-The Ladies Suite The Ladies Suite, like the Queen’s Salon, is a place for the gathering of court ladies. It’s used after dinners for the noblewoman of the confederacy to relax. It’s usually empty. It receives the most use after state dinners. Like the Smoking room, however, there is a catch to the Ladies Suite. Although it’s public most nights, after nights where a state dinner has been served, one must gain dispensation from the Queen in order to use the room. 16-The Gentlemen’s Suite Like the Ladies Suite, the Gentlemen’s suite is used by privileged and favored members of the Court. The ability to use this room (similar to that of the Ladies Suite) creates a distinction between the high aristocracy, and those who are merely haute bourgeois. It also has it’s practical side. When entertaining foreign dignitaries (who always have dispensation to use any of the semiprivate rooms like these), it’s common to discuss politics after dinner. Thus, if one has access to the Gentlemen’s suite after a state affair with some foreign ambassador or Monarch, one has a larger chance of influencing any foreign relations. This liberty carries a great deal of power. 17-The Gold Room While most of the rooms on the first floor are public to members of court, there is one room that is reserved almost exclusively for the Royal and Imperial family and their intimate guests. While courtiers can gain dispensations to use the Suite rooms or the Smoking rooms, one must be exclusively invited into the Gold Room in order to enjoy it with the Royal family. Despite the fact that it’s so far from the personal suites and chambers of the Royal family, it’s used, perhaps, most commonly because it serves as a gathering place where all the members of the Imperial family can enjoy each other’s company. 18-The Liberary The library is another public room. It’s a vast chamber, home to the combined books collections of the House of Rlugia and the House of Novendot (originally Mecca, whose family tomes record history back to the founding of modern Zelpha, and whose magical books are some of the most desired and dangerous volumes in the world). 19- The Colonnade While the Rlugias have personal suites in the palace itself, Leto Tarkovitch Novendot (Leto I), Leto Letovitch Novendot (Leto II) Irulan Katerina Novendot and Katerina Irulanovna Novendot all reside in their yurts in a vast Megeron, built to the north of the palace. The colonnade is the sunny, greco hallway that connects the Megeron with the Palace proper. 20-The Imperial Megeron It would be unthinkable if the Novendot tribe were to give up their Jaran ways and live in a Kaja structure. Thus, in addition to the Palace, a handsome Megeron has been provided so that the Novendot tribe never has to be put in a position where they must give up their ancestral ways. As the Imperial Tribe, the Novendot’s yurts are the most magnificent, making the one room Jaran fortress nearly as elegant as the palace inside. The Second Floor The Second Floor The Imperial family, for the most part, resides on the second floor. Each member of the family has his or her own apartments, in which they may seek solace. Anyone, upon the invitation of a particular Royal, may enter these apartments. This is unlike the days of Mystice when only certain aristocrats could and could not enter various apartments. But, this is keeping with the informality of Vertfort, as opposed to the unyieldingness of Mystice. A-The Imperial Apartments The King and his Queen-Empress live in the Imperial Apartments. They consist of several luxurious rooms in which they may escape the customs of court. The Imperial Apartments are the largest, and most luxurious set of rooms in the entire palace. 1-A: The King’s Antechamber Those who are invited or visit the Imperial Apartments are required to wait in the antechamber for the emergence of their Monarch. Though the room is grand, it serves a useful purpose; those who are more friendly and amiable with the Royal and Imperial family are invited into the inner rooms of the Apartments. Those who are more distant or disliked, conduct their visit in the Antechamber. Thus, while the room is spacious, many dread it as a dead end in their aspirations for Imperial friendship. 1-B: The Jaran Corridor The Jaran corridor is the hallway that runs from the Antechamber to the royal bedroom. It serves as another wall between eager and anxious courtiers and their monarchs. Those too powerful to be left in the Antechamber and who must (eventually) be admitted into the private family chambers, will sometimes be left waiting in this Corridor for hours at a time, in the hope that they will eventually give up their quest for a visit. 1-C: The Red Room The Red Room serves as the parlor for the King and Queen. Guests who have made it past the Antechamber and the corridor will be invited into the Red Room, for a private meeting with the King or Queen. While it’s true that any courtier may present himself or herself to his/her monarch in any of the public rooms, being invited into the Red Room allows a bonding that is almost impossible in the public rooms (the monarchs are almost always surrounded by people in the public rooms). 1-D: The Family Dining Room Each evening, baring some sort of state function, the Royal and Imperial families gather together in this cozy, elegant room, and share dinner. It’s a sort of ceremony that allows the family to bond, away from the deceit and decadence of the rest of the court. In this room, the Imperial family is just that, a family. Served by two maids, the family appreciates a function that most nobles and aristocrats have abandoned: the good company of family. 1-E: The Blue Study So named because of it’s rich blue upholstery, the Blue Study is used both by the King and his Empress. Couriers, Ministers and secretaries are always entering, exiting, dictating, etc. Out of all the rooms in the palace, this is perhaps the most busy. While a Minister might hope and pray and plot to receive an invitation into the inner workings of the Royal Apartments, he may come and go freely through the Blue Study: It’s nearly a public room. 1-F: The Imperial Bed Chamber While it is unusual for Serdian and Sho highborn to share bedrooms with their spouses, the King and Empress share one room; one bed. This is Jaran in custom (and normal for all non aristocrats). In this way, the Monarchs are not estranged from one another. B-The Apartments of Madame Royale Madame Royale is also the Crown Princess of Sudland. Even though she is an Important princess, she is by no means nearly as important as her brother. yet somehow, through luck and the inspirations of the artisans who crafted her apartments, the Crown Princess of Sudland managed to receive the second most luxurious apartments. Despite the fact that this has caused some contention among the Rlugia-Novendot children, when one enters the apartments of Madame Royale, one is immediately struck by their elegance. 2-A: The Princesses Antechamber Working in the same manner that those in the use of her brother and parents work, the Princess is able to screen courtiers and aristocrats who seek her out. The room is elegant, originally intended to be used in the Royal Apartments (a fact that seems to apply to a number of the Princesses rooms-perhaps the cause of the elevated quality of her chambers). 2-B: The Princesses Corridor The Princesses corridor works slightly differently than that of the Prince’s Corridor and the Jaran Corridor. It’s an altogether small hallway than those in the apartments of the Dauphin and the King. Thus, it serves primarily as a literal hallway, that connects the different rooms of the Apartment. The political wall that separates the Princess from unwanted visitors takes the form of the Blue Parlor. 2-C: The Blue Parlor The Blue Parlor serves as sort of a combination between the Antechamber and the Jaran Corridor. It is the most public of Helen’s rooms, the richest in regards to furnishings and decorations, and her least favorite. Guests who are unable to be put off are received in the Blue Room. Those who are friendlier are invited into the Boudoir or Tea Room. 2-D The Tea Room The Tea Room is the Princesses audience chamber, so to speak. There are different levels of intimacy associated with different rooms. While the Blue Parlor is for strangers and for those unfriendly with the Princess, the Boudoir is for close friends and family members. The Tea Room is a sort of middle chamber for acquaintances, occasional friends and male visitors. 2-E: The Yellow Boudoir Helen's favorite room, the Yellow Boudoir is a spacious chamber in which she and her close friends socialize. While those who are too powerful to be spurned yet who are unfamiliar or disliked by the Princess must be content to be received in the Blue Parlor, those closest to Madame Royale are invited into the yellow boudoir. 2-F: The Royal Bed Chamber Though the Royal apartments are slightly more lavish than the Princesses, Helen’s bedroom is perhaps the most spectacular bedchamber in the entire palace. This is because the room and furnishings were initially going to be used for that of the Empress and her husband. Yet, the Sovereign decided that she would prefer a less ornate bed chamber, and gave those things that would have been the Kings, to her daughter. 3-The Apartments of the Dauphin The Dauphin of Serdio’s apartments are the third most lavish in the Palace (though some claim his should be equally as lavish as those of the Princess). The Dauphin is closest to his parents, to symbolize the solidarity between himself and the crown. 3-A: The Prince’s Antechamber Working much the same way the King’s Antechamber works, the Prince’s antechamber functions as a wall between fawning courtiers, and himself. 3-B: The Prince’s Corridor Used in much the same way as that of his parents, the Prince is able to screen those who doesn’t care to see, by keeping them waiting in the hallway for hours at a time. Though a particularly powerful aristocrat may manage to make it past the Antechamber, he will find himself even more uncomfortable in this spartan hallway. 3-C: The Celestial Room Named because it bears a number of Celestial and HL inspirations, the Celestial Room is the Prince’s private sitting room in which he relaxes with friends. It, like the Yellow Boudoir and Red Room is his private escape from the demands of court. 3-D: The Royal Bed Chamber The Bed chamber of the Dauphin is elegant and spacious. It was done in the same material of the Celestial room, giving the apartments a continuous flowing feeling (in regards to design). The elegance of this room is only barely outmatched by that of Helen. It bears a very similar design to the second born princess, Julia. 4-The Apartments of the Princess Royal Though the least elegant rooms, the apartments of Princess Julia Rlugia-Novendot are still magnificent. Because she is a lesser princess (bound to inherit only Galastar while he elder siblings have the thrones of large kingdoms written into their inheritance) her apartments are smaller. 4-A: The Red Antechamber Though not nearly as large as those of her siblings, the Princess Royal, too, must be protected from those courtiers who aim to take advantage of her. Thus, the Red Antechamber allows a smoke screen between flatterers and the the more friendly portions of the princesses rooms. 4-B: The Forest Room The forest room is so named because of it’s floral wall paper and slightly rustic feel. It’s the official receiving room of the Princess. Since the Sky Room is so secluded, this also serves as the receiving room for lesser friends of the Princess. 4-C: The Bedroom Done in colors to match those of the Sky Room, the Princess Julia’s bedroom is very similar to that of her brother, the Dauphin. 4-D: The Sky Room The sky room is one of the most beautiful rooms in Julia’s apartments. It’s named for it’s elegantly painted ceiling and it’s spacious appointments. As one must go through the Princesses bed chambers to reach this room, only her closest friends are allowed in. This is, perhaps, the most private room in the entire palace. 5-The Apartments of the Prince Royal 5-A: The Primary Room The Prince Brennan has perhaps the smallest, most inelegant room out of the entire family. This is for a number of reasons. Firstly, the child is unpleasant and rude to both his mother and his father, hardening their sympathies that he has been put (relative to all other members of his family) into poverty. Secondly, as the heir of Vulcan, he is destined to become a Viceroy, a position which is, in fact, lower than the one he occupies now. While his Eldest brother and sister will go on to become the King-Emperor of Serdio-Meria and the Queen of Sudland respectively, he will be nothing more than a colonial governor. 6-The Grand Hall On the first floor, the grand hall is a rococo dream. As it rises, however, it changes. The second and third story grand hall is an elegant vision or art nuveu, much more open and connected than the first floor hall. The galleries are narrower on the third floor, which makes the second-third story hall seem like one chamber (in contrast to the distinctively first floor hall) crowned with a huge glass dome. 7-The King’s Hall Different from that on the first floor, the King’s hall (nevertheless) connects the apartments of Princess Julia, Prince Brennan and the Dauphin. 8-The Queen’s hall The Queen’s hall is not as elegant as on the first floor, but connects the apartments of the Princess Royal and those of the Emperor and Empress. The Third Floor The Third Floor Perhaps the least important floor, the third floor is home to minor nobles, guests and servants. The only thing truly noteworthy about it is the grand hall, which comes to a remarkable climax that put’s the rest of the room into context. 1-*Grand Hall On the first floor, the grand hall is a rococo dream. As it rises, however, it changes. The second and third story grand hall is an elegant vision or art nuveu, much more open and connected than the first floor hall. The galleries are narrower on the third floor, which makes the second-third story hall seem like one chamber (in contrast to the distinctively first floor hall) crowned with a huge glass dome. (Note: This picture is a view of both the second and third floor with the first floor in the picture correlating to the second floor in the palace) 2-The Court Apartments Though the most powerful and richest families (around 200) have compounds and villas all throughout Vertcourt, and the lesser families own townhouses in bourgeois districts like the Marais and Vendome, there are a number of families who have small apartments on the third story of the palace. These tiny suites are mostly symbolic, but will be used during state occasions. The families that possess these suites and apartments tend to have much larger mansions in the old city. Yet, if they truly want to feel part of court, they will also employ these chambers. Guest rooms are also located here. 3-The Dorms The servants and slaves of the Royal household reside here (personal servants are the responsibility of whatever noble choses to stay at the palace). Everyone from the cooks to the chamber maids live in these spartan, comfortable chambers. 4-The Servant’s hall The Servants hall, unlike the King’s hall or Queen’s Hall, is narrow and unadorned. It connects the servants dorms, Guest Apartments and Court apartments with the grand hall. 5- The Sea Suite Especially designed to accommodate foreign dignitaries from the Poseidon Empires, this set of rooms is a guest suite and despite it’s intentions, can be used for any visitor. 6-The Island Suite Like the Sea Suite, the Island Suite can be used for all guests from the Dust bowel, or anyone else for that matter. 7-The Rose Suite A fairly generic set of rooms, these apartments are for any guest. 8-The Lilac Suite The Lilac suite is another set of elegant, but generic rooms for any guest.



Drake	Aug 9 2007, 03:34 PM Post #2
“Après moi, le déluge.” Posts: 3,482 Group: Administrator Member #1 Joined: June 20, 2004	Following the completion of the White Palace and Vertfort, it took the Imperial and Royal family no time at all to move in and settle in a regular routine. Unlike Mystice, the palace was not about ceremony. The family did not eat on normal days surrounded by courtiers; the archaic levée and caucher* were abolished, and the number of servants were seriously curtailed to a more reasonable and useful amount. The current way of things suited everyone, most especially the King, who had in his youth, a large distaste for the formal atmosphere his own grandfather had built up around himself. The Rlugia dynasty was happy and pleased, the best of days they had seen since those lazy days back in Meria. It was the Dauphin most of all who appreciated the privacy afforded to his person. Although he had a small circle of friends and associates, it was not the vast number which his sisters had. He preferred to keep things to himself, having a vast distaste for court. It was a horrid place of lies and deceit, where one could scarcely tell someone a secret without being stabbed in the back seconds later, in a crude form of extortion and blackmail. This part of court was most sickening to the Dauphin, and in part, owed to the fact he kept to himself. He had a secret. The picture painted by the Dauphin made him out to be a most perfect soul, cherished by his parents, as perhaps, their only child who had not been a disappointment. He was pious, kind, and gentle. He hated formality and was skilled in both war and peace. He was formidable with a blade, and proficient in magic, yet also had the grandeur of a statesman and a majestic air more befitting of a future emperor and king. It was as if the Gods had blessed him from birth, in hopes that the Rlugia-Novendot empire would hold. Yet, the Dauphin could not help that he was born with a soul, and thus born with imperfect. His flaw was his sexual appetite. It was not to say he was a reincarnate of his great-grandfather, Graith, but rather his tastes were not normal for someone such as himself. His affairs were overly passionate, but few in number. They were not with the highborn ladies as many would think, but rather with a singular prince whom he had great feelings for. It was horribly shameful in his mind, yet so long as he remained distant, no one would know. Marius d'Albret, heir to the d'Albret fortune and titles, was that person who shared Frederick's most intimate thoughts. In public, they were nothing more than close friends, and no one suspected the slightest. Many were inclined to believe that the Dauphin had his affairs with one of the various ladies of the court, and he did nothing to dissuade that opinion amongst the courtiers. But in private, away the peering eyes of the court, and indeed everyone, Marius d'Albret was a lover of the Dauphin. *The dressing and undressing ceremonies.
	His Majesty, Drake, By the Grace of God, King of Serdio, the Sudland, Prince-Consort of Meria, Rei Henka of Odon, Grand Prince of Ivendell, Imperator of Eden, Protector of the Shiitan, President of the Lands of Sade


MasterRuler	Aug 9 2007, 04:35 PM Post #3
Wow... I just figured this out... Posts: 1,267 Group: Administrator Member #32 Joined: November 30, 2004	Leto II and his cousin stood on the walls overlooking the vast migration into the palace. The family had moved in shortly after the estate was declared complete (though the grounds were still being given the final touches, the palace and other buildings had been finished for a few weeks), and now the gates were flung open. The spires, widows walks and dormers of the outer palace, which from the street rose to such high peaks, were only slightly higher than the balustrade that ran around the Palace wall’s guard walk. Leto examined his aunt’s first daughter. The Princess was dressed modestly, in a white Charter style gown. It’s waist was slightly higher than normal, with short sleeves and a narrow skirt. Her golden hair was caught up in a sort of coiffure that made her look like one of the ancient Kenjikan goddesses. She was attractive, very much so and as she leaned over the balustrade, clutching a fur wrap about her bare arms to keep herself warm, he wondered what life as her husband would be like. He knew there was a mild desire, in the minds of his family, that he should marry her, to make sure that the Sadien possessions were kept in the families hands. “How many people are coming to live here?” She asked, gesturing to the line of carriages and motor cars that were streaming up City Way. The Waterfront (that fashionable, slightly artistic community that played the front yard to the palace) was chocked full of vehicles of a similar nature. The cost of the Vertfort (which had been enormous) was deeply offset by the mansions and palaces that were sold inside the estate to aristocrats. And today, was moving day. “I’m pretty sure that not all these people will be living here full time....” Leto said. “They’re just transporting possessions... and examining the place. I think everyone’s curious.” It seemed the line of vehicles into the palace grounds would never end. “The houses aren’t that big.” Helen said. She had spent most of the previous day touring the grounds. This is before the Court moved in, and they had been empty, open. She had walked into houses that, from the outside, seemed like those country compounds that housed hundreds of rooms. Yet on the inside, she realized that the scale had been shrunk, that they were no more than cottages. Yet they were sturdy and more comfortable than most of the enormous townhouses in the Vendome or Marais. “No.” Leto responded. “They aren’t suppose to be. Very few courtiers will be living here full time. Well... when I say very few I mean... relatively very few. I think only around three or four hundred. Most have houses and estates around the city. But it’s always good to have some place close to the Monarch.” “I suppose.” Helen said. And though the Waterfront and City way would be chocked for seven or eight more hours, Helen turned her back on the city and walked back to the palace.



MasterRuler	Aug 10 2007, 06:18 PM Post #4
Wow... I just figured this out... Posts: 1,267 Group: Administrator Member #32 Joined: November 30, 2004	The Princess, her wrap clutched firmly about her naked arms, descended the wide steps from the Palace walls into the lawns surrounding the formal gardens. She skirted the huge, hanging willow trees that bordered the City Way and, marching over the sod of the Green, went directly to the steps that led up from the City Way (still clogged with vehicles from all over the Empire) to the Imperial Pavilion. She walked through the vast, almost medieval chamber that was the grand hall into the Queen’s corridor. She was joined at once by at least three of her ladies, just newly arrived at court. One, the Princess Claudette Eleanor Marie de Foix, wearing a charming charter gown of pale turquoise fell in stride two steps behind Helen, as the most highly ranked lady in waiting. A step behind Claudette was the Honorable Elizabeth Jane Van Der Walle of Odon and Ms. Melanie Hamilton of Augusta. The Princess walked from chamber to chamber, and in the process procured a fourth lady, the Jaran Princess Taymar Ireneovna Tobsky, a distant relation of Helen’s uncle, the Emperor. The Jaran princess walked abreast of the Serdian princess, as her people were less inclined to follow the etiquette of the court. Indeed, their boldness and familiarity with all members of the court encouraged the break down of often useless rules and regulations. The Princess entered the King’s Salon, where she spied who she was looking for. Women did not often enter the King’s rooms, nor did men enter the Queen’s. The two genders fraternized together in the library, the upper grand hall (in the airy, light rooms that rose above the imperious chamber on the first floor), various Gardens and the private houses. However, being the highest ranked princess at court (the fact that there were higher ranking Jaran princesses was only a slight technicality, for in the eyes of the Serdians and the Sho, Helen was their sovereigns eldest daughter, and thus highest ranking-despite what the Sakhalin tribe might say), only her father could contradict or forbid her from entering an entirely male chamber. In the King’s Salon she found a number of gentlemen lounging, reading and chatting away. She felt it utterly ridiculous that they stopped their conversations to gaze at her in incredulity. It wasn’t, the princess thought, as if what they discussed was any different than the mindless chatter that filled the Queen’s public rooms. She, her ladies in tow, like the great flagship of some armada approached the man she wished to speak with. “My lord Prince D’Albert.” she said, curtsying ever so slightly.



Drake	Aug 10 2007, 06:27 PM Post #5
“Après moi, le déluge.” Posts: 3,482 Group: Administrator Member #1 Joined: June 20, 2004	"Your majesty." The young prince rose immediately rose from his position and offered the Madame Royale a low sweeping bow. In the eyes of the Serdians, she was the one of the highest ranked women at court (below her mother, who herself was ranked below the Queen Widow). He smiled slightly, in an ever-so-charming manner, sweeping a dark lock out of his piercing blue eyes. "Your majesty, you look as enchanting as ever. Good day, Mademoiselle de Foix, I must say you get ever more enchanting with each passing day. Have you found a suitable husband as of yet? Ah, and Mademoiselles Van Der Walle and Hamilton. You both you look positively stunning. I take it you took vacations this summer? Ah, no, don't frown; I noticed you as well Mademoiselle Tobsky. You merely took me by surprise. A woman so beautiful such as yourself should not sneak up on men!" The young prince smiled once more, causing the various men in the Salon to merely roll their eyes slightly and watch the unfolding scene. d'Albret was known as a flatter, and he certainly did nothing to hide it. "So, may I ask why her majesty has chosen to grace me with her presence?"
	His Majesty, Drake, By the Grace of God, King of Serdio, the Sudland, Prince-Consort of Meria, Rei Henka of Odon, Grand Prince of Ivendell, Imperator of Eden, Protector of the Shiitan, President of the Lands of Sade


MasterRuler	Aug 11 2007, 01:58 AM Post #6
Wow... I just figured this out... Posts: 1,267 Group: Administrator Member #32 Joined: November 30, 2004	“You are overly familiar, My Lord.” This attempt at haughtiness was ruined by the tittering giggles that Ms. Hamilton, the youngest and most juvenile of the ladies present, let fly. It was well known among the Princesses' ladies that ever since moving to Serdio, the Crown Princess had developed a deep attraction to the Prince d’Albert. Despite the fact that this detail was often discussed, that every mannerism of the prince, every quality was dissected and debated by the princesses' entourage, very few people outside Helen’s circle knew of her infatuation. Yet there were vague rumors, that (especially here at court) were spreading more and more quickly. It was well known that the Empress and King favored a marriage between the Princess and her cousin, the Emperor’s son. Yet, those courtiers (increasing in number) who knew that the Princess desired the heir of the House of Albert, decided that this was obviously the better choice. There were a number of reasons why the Princess Rlugia-Novendot and the Prince d’Albert would make a good match. The King and Queen (who had begun within the last few weeks to notice the attention the Princess paid the Serdian aristocrat) believed that a match between the two would more closely bind the Confederacy together, as their (perhaps) son in law would come from the finest of princely houses. Secondly, the aristocracy favored the marriage as a means of diluting the Rlugia-Novendot family power. Though they were grateful that the Rlugias and Novendots had elevated them to a position preeminent in the world, the fact that Sudland might be ruled by another house other than that of Sabriel and Drake, was appealing to most nobles. And Sudland itself would benefit from the Albert family fortune, which would almost eliminate the Royal families dependency on government allowances, and thus cut taxes. None of these reasons, however, even crossed Helen’s mind. They wouldn’t of course, for that wasn’t the type of mind that Helen possessed. She thought, instead of taxes and alliances, of the Prince’s deep set, brooding eyes. Of his dark hair and curls, of his square jaw and fine, straight nose. And so, despite the fact that the Princess had meant to present herself as graceful and imperious, when the Hamilton belle giggled so girlishly, Helen’s face went scarlet. On anyone else the effect might have been unflattering. Nothing, however, could distort or ruin the perfection of Helen’s face. The red that welled up in her cheeks was comparable to nothing less than the red of a deep, exotic sunset. Yet her beauty, her wiles, her unnatural gifts seemed not to phase the prince at all which only excited and further frustrated the princess. She suddenly forgot her purpose in seeking the prince out, and in an attempt to escape looking foolish, she floundered.... searching from some reason why she had addressed the prince. “..where.....have.... Where is my brother?”



Drake	Aug 11 2007, 09:26 AM Post #7
“Après moi, le déluge.” Posts: 3,482 Group: Administrator Member #1 Joined: June 20, 2004	d'Albret smiled only slightly. The Madame Royale certainly looked rather flustered, and the young Hamilton girl seemed absolutely effected by his flattery as well. The young man said nothing and merely waited for Madame Royale to regain herself from the daze she was in. Admittedly d'Albret was not well acquainted with Helen, but he certainly knew when she wasn't acting as her normal self. His deep eyes examined her further, curious what her intent was. Even if she was one of the highest ranked ladies in the entire palace, it was still considered a rather unwritten law that women did not enter the chambers of the men. And then it came, and she delivered her answer. Her brother. He naturally assumed the Dauphin; Brennan was foul, and few (his family included) enjoyed to be his company. Yet the Dauphin seemed just as strange and foreign. Did he and Helen interact much, if at all? While Helen was pretty, the Dauphin often made jokes about her intellect--or lack thereof. In all honesty, he hadn't seen the Dauphin in some time. While they often interacted in the various public rooms, it had been very busy as of late and the Celestial room had been left empty. "Your brother." d'Albret repeated, as if as dazed as Helen. "If I'm correct, I believe he went hunting with both his majesty, your father, and the Emperor Leto in the Foret-Vert. I believe he invited your cousin, Leto II. They are very good friends, aren't they?" Marius smiled once more, in an ever-so-charming way.
	His Majesty, Drake, By the Grace of God, King of Serdio, the Sudland, Prince-Consort of Meria, Rei Henka of Odon, Grand Prince of Ivendell, Imperator of Eden, Protector of the Shiitan, President of the Lands of Sade


MasterRuler	Aug 19 2007, 12:27 AM Post #8
Wow... I just figured this out... Posts: 1,267 Group: Administrator Member #32 Joined: November 30, 2004	“Are they?” Helen stammered. “Perhaps I recall my Lord father mentioning it.” The Princess looked around and reddened even further. However, no matter how red she turned, her face was as ever, painfully beautiful. She realized that she ought not be here. Her ladies were uncomfortable; this was the equivalent of entering the men’s lavatory and she realized that no matter how highly ranking she was, this was improper. The men had risen when she entered, naturally, and she could see that they were slightly irritated that they must remain standing (as was custom in the presence of women). Similarly, they were anxious to resume their activities which had been so suddenly interrupted. Yet, oh! Helen didn’t want to leave Marius, whom she regarded as the most beautiful man at court. The princess breathed in deeply and willed her face to resume it’s creamy complexion. It took only moments before she felt her cheeks chill, and the back of her neck cool. Once again, she was a stoney goddess. Her ladies drew from her strength and suddenly, they too were cool, calm and almost natural in the way they stood in this masculine reserve. She lifted her chin. “I’m afraid, My Lord, that I was with High Highness, my cousin just a moment ago and it seems he has refrained from joining my father and brother in the hunt.” She paused a moment to let this sink in. It was nothing, trivial really, yet the way she delivered this correction made Marius’ mistake seem nearly treasonous. And then, suddenly-she smiled. It was a radiant smile that took the breaths away from nearly every man in the room. And they all damned this creature; for they knew that once she left, the chamber would seem drab and their distractions and activities would seem mundane where they had been exciting before her arrival. “However, My Lord, I must needs discuss matters with my brother. Perhaps your Lordship would be so kind as to accompany me into Foret-Vert?”



Drake	Aug 19 2007, 12:41 AM Post #9
“Après moi, le déluge.” Posts: 3,482 Group: Administrator Member #1 Joined: June 20, 2004	"Of course, your majesty." The d'Albret prince offered his arm to the Madame Royale, and with much poise, left the parlor with her entourage of ladies. The men in the room, with a collective sigh, waited for the doors to shut before returning to their matters of debate, mostly concerning the Restoration and the upcoming coronation, but also on matters such as money, marriage, and other talks that were far less petty than those discussed by the women of the court. In time however, when they knew Helen was far from them, talks fell to her. From the oldest Duke to the greatest Squire, all talks were bated around Helen and her absurd, even unnatural beauty. d'Albret, surrounded by Helen and her ladies, then slowly made their way through the winding complex of the Vertfort towards the hunting grounds. --- Nadia Rlugia sighed as she rounded the steps of the Grand Hall. Her unpacking had taken far longer than the various lords and ladies of Sade, given that her home at court was far larger and luxurious than the homes which the nobles and haute-bourgeois so readily bought to be closer to their kings. Oh, how time how flew, and yet how this whole complex seemed so foreign! Nadia could easily recall those days in her mind, back at Mystice. Everything seemed so simpler, so much more lazy. Yet the old minds always preferred the past, and Nadia did not yet realize how complex the rules of Mystice had been compared to the new regulations laid down by Sabriel and Drake to govern the White Palace. As her aged hand touched one of the stone columns, she shuddered. This place so vast and expansive, that it dwarfed even Mystice. How much did this place cost? Were the stones of this very place the first steps towards yet another revolution? Her eyes shut slightly and she made her steps further into the palace. She would go speak to Sabriel, perhaps one of the few who understood her anymore. Drake was too busy, Sage and Nina far too naive. Poor Dionysus was dead, which left only the Empress to speak too of things of importance...
	His Majesty, Drake, By the Grace of God, King of Serdio, the Sudland, Prince-Consort of Meria, Rei Henka of Odon, Grand Prince of Ivendell, Imperator of Eden, Protector of the Shiitan, President of the Lands of Sade


MasterRuler	Aug 19 2007, 12:58 AM Post #10
Wow... I just figured this out... Posts: 1,267 Group: Administrator Member #32 Joined: November 30, 2004	As the D’albret prince and Helen descended the Queen’s Staircase, two grooms approached with horses. “It will be faster, I suppose.” Though the Tobsky princess stared at the fine horses with a combination of desire and envy, all of Helen’s ladies in waiting were dismissed. “We’ll travel faster without them.” Helen said as she pulled herself atop her mount. Though her formal education had been limited, and though she was considered naive almost to the point of stupidity, the Princess Royale had an elegant seat and was a born equestrian. And of course, this made sense. What else could one do in the country besides ride? Despite her protests that she wanted to travel quickly, once the Albret prince was seated, she set a slow and leisurely pace down Vertcourt Way. Once on their way, Helen became suddenly shy. The air was sweet and the sky was blue. The road was wide and even, and occasionally they would run into groups of meandering aristocrats, exploring their new home. They would bow, of course murmuring “Your highnesses” or “My lady, My Lord” or something of the sort. Though she stole glances at Marius, she could see that his gaze was directly ahead of them, which only served to encourage her timidity. After a few moments of uncomfortable silence, Helen finally asked in a breathless, girlish voice. “It’s rather warm today, isn’t it?” ***** Sabriel had been working. Working since breakfast which she had taken with her family. There were bills and letters and building plans and the sort. Drake had taken the Dauphin and the Emperor hunting which left her the majority of the work to do by herself. Thus of course didn’t bother her for she had often left work for Drake. Yet she was tired and desired some sort of break. Which is why she was no longer at her desk. She leaned against the window looking out onto the Imperial Pavilion Gardens. There was a... Squire... she thought, by the name of Geeter with the Hamilton girl. As she observed longer, she saw that they were in the midst of a passionate embrace. she jerked back and at the same moment a knock on the door nearly sent her to the floor. She inhaled and straightened her dress. It was a new style, called Poiret that was rapidly taking the city by storm. It would be only a matter of time before the style stormed the court. It was very similar to Charter, but sturdier. Her dress was blue, with a slightly higher than natural waist and almost art deco lines. The skirt was narrow and ended at her ankles, revealing a handsome pair of black boots. Her peppered hair was swept up. She cleared her throat: “Come in.” The door opened slightly and a liveried groom entered. “Your Majesty.” He bowed. “Her Highness, the Queen Dowager awaits you in the King’s Antechamber and wishes to be granted an audience.” He bowed again. the Empress smiled. The Queen Dowager was ranked higher than Sabriel, and as such, could barge into any of the chambers in the royal apartments. The fact that she had asked for an interview was a display of good manners and goodwill towards the Empress. This kindness was just one of the many reasons why Sabriel loved her mother in law. “Yes, of course. I shall receive her in the Red Room.” The Empress smoothed her gown yet again, and (once the groom was gone) walked through Jaran Corridor into the Red Room.



Drake	Aug 19 2007, 01:25 AM Post #11
“Après moi, le déluge.” Posts: 3,482 Group: Administrator Member #1 Joined: June 20, 2004	"Mmm. I suppose so. Living in Meria most of your life, you might find Serdian weather..stifling. Yet it's rather mild today. It's far hotter in the south, near the Sudland. So muggy, it's nearly impossible to breathe on some days." Marius remained rather distant from Helen. He did not find her very interesting, and was only concerned with delivering her to the Foret-Vert. It didn't seem like she had anything interesting to say, and Marius certainly wasn't going to prod the conversation along. He had no need to be any more than cordial with the Madame Royale, for she certainly wasn't going to give him any more than a few moments in his presence. As the horses trotted around the corner towards the Foret-Vert, Marius pointed it out, as if he were instructing her. "Here is it. I hear your mother stocked all sorts of exotic animals and monsters inside...is that true? I suppose it must be, because your father was quite the warrior in his day, wasn't he? Didn't he defeat some dark lord, or something like that? Mardikhan? No, wait...I think it was Eston...no, that was a Mardkihanian general..." Like many of the younger generation, Marius had little knowledge of the affairs which had plagued Zelpha prior to his birth--his youth had been spent around the tumults of the Revolution in Serdio and Drake. The distant memories of Mortikan, and indeed Sorthania, were ancient history to him, and in his eyes, Drake was simply a great king. ---- Nadia found a seat on a sofa in the Red Room. It was certainly a spacious and luxurious chamber, befitting for intimate meetings with close friends. It did not surprise Nadia in the least when she was swiftly brought into the inner chambers of her daughter-in-law's court. Her position afforded her vast influence and power, yet it was something Nadia did not care to taste, and thus kept an air of modesty about her. Brushing back a few grey hairs, she sighed. She was no longer beautiful. She was matronly, pious, and elegant. She wore a dress of the old court styles, a deep black. Since the death of her husband, she wore nothing else out of respect. Her first, and indeed second youths were long gone. Nadia was growing older, and she knew her time on Zelpha was slowly coming to an end. Despite these fears, the Queen Widow had high hopes to cultivate long lasting relationships with all her children, grandchildren, and even their respective spouses. She did not state it, but Nadia adored Sabriel as if she were her own daughter. Who could not adore her, a woman so kind and gentle, so befitting as a bride for her own son? Nadia had guided them both with gentle steps, in those days when both were still young. She placed her hands in her lap, awaiting for Sabriel's entrance.
	His Majesty, Drake, By the Grace of God, King of Serdio, the Sudland, Prince-Consort of Meria, Rei Henka of Odon, Grand Prince of Ivendell, Imperator of Eden, Protector of the Shiitan, President of the Lands of Sade


MasterRuler	Aug 19 2007, 01:38 AM Post #12
Wow... I just figured this out... Posts: 1,267 Group: Administrator Member #32 Joined: November 30, 2004	Helen had been raised in the north. She had played with Jaran princesses and thus knew all about Mortikan. One might think that the horror stories told late at night between young girls during sleeping parties might have been biased or exaggerated. Yet the tales of the Dark lord literally feasting upon curried baby flesh and collared virgin intestine were true and thus all the more chilling. Even in the days after the defeat of Mortikan, his memory still served to enforce the orders of mothers. The jaran had been molested by the dark lord for their entire history: they would not give up memory of him so easily. And thus Helen was shocked that this Albret prince knew nothing of Mortikan. She was shocked in a way that he might have been shocked had he known that she was only vaguely familiar with who Shayateen was, had he known that she was only slightly confident in her knowledge of the date when the Rlugias gained control of Serdio. And this diminished him in her eyes. His slightly bored drawl, his arrogant disinterest. She had given him little choice in the matter of accompanying her. She knew that no matter how wealthy and powerful his family was, as Drake’s eldest daughter, he would be insane not to obey such a request. She reined in her horse. She gazed at him. He did not return it. She felt her heart breaking and with a surprisingly even tone she said: “It was kind, my lord, for you to escort me. However, I’m sure I can continue on my own, if you will.” **** Sabriel entered the chamber and curtsied slightly. “Madame Dowager, I am pleased to see you.” And with the abandoning of all pretense, sabriel approached her mother in law, and lowered herself upon the seat next to her. Taking her hang, she brushed it to her face. “It’s good to see you, Mother.”



Drake	Aug 19 2007, 01:48 AM Post #13
“Après moi, le déluge.” Posts: 3,482 Group: Administrator Member #1 Joined: June 20, 2004	Marius could say nothing more. "If that is what you wish your majesty, then I shall take my leave." And in an instant, his horse galloped far away from Helen and her beauty, a beauty so crazed and amazing that it failed to attract even Marius. --- Nadia smiled when the formality Sabriel spoke with ended, and she was but her mother. She kissed the Empress on the cheek slightly, and placed her aged hands upon Sabriels, which seemed so much more vibrant and youthful in comparison. "Darling," Nadia began very sweetly. "It has been weeks since we have last spoken. I must admit, all this confusion, with the usurper, and the Restoration..and now this palace and the rebuilding of the city...that you haven't had much time to entertain little old me. Despite my rank, I do note that I am of far less importance to you in these times. A merchant can give you money so desperately needed for funding these projects of yours. All I can offer is encouragement and love. Nevertheless, we can speak now." The old queen began to take off her bonnet, which she wore on most occasions out of modesty. But given that it was only her and Sabriel, she chose to relieve herself of the garment which made her uncomfortable in the hot weather. "I must say, it gets hotter every summer in this dreaded city. However, I do prefer it to the chilling winds of Jeds--my body cannot handle such extremes these days. But I digress....how are you, my dear? And the children? I do hope Frederick, Helen, and Julia are fine. Drake hasn't murdered Brennan yet, I hope?"
	His Majesty, Drake, By the Grace of God, King of Serdio, the Sudland, Prince-Consort of Meria, Rei Henka of Odon, Grand Prince of Ivendell, Imperator of Eden, Protector of the Shiitan, President of the Lands of Sade


MasterRuler	Aug 20 2007, 06:35 PM Post #14
Wow... I just figured this out... Posts: 1,267 Group: Administrator Member #32 Joined: November 30, 2004	Helen didn’t allow herself to turn and watch the Serdian prince gallop away. In front of her loomed the immense hunting park, Foret-Vert, which was stocked with both benevolent and evil creatures. She knew that there was a protective spell around the forest to keep it’s inhabitants contained, and thus she hesitated entering. Yet, she could not face the embarrassment of going back to the palace. It would be obvious that her quest to find her brother was false if she returned so shortly after leaving. And so, despite the fact that she lacked any guards or weapons, and despite the fact that she was without magical means of exiting the forest once she entered, she set off from Vertcourt way, across the dense, high grass, towards the massive and ominous trees of her father’s hunting forest. **** Sabriel smiled weakly. “The children are.... “ She sighed. “I hope that with time, Frederick will become the man his father is. With time. Helen is.... well, let’s say that it’s a good thing she was blessed with such an extraordinary gift. Her beauty will attract the richest and most scholarly men and hopefully one of them will be an able enough ruler.” She knew this all sounded slightly stiff and forced. But it was difficult to admit that one’s children were a complete disappointment. She knew she had only her self to blame though. She had grown up in a very different world. Perhaps-as some philosophers had began to claim of late-the world had come into a perfect balance of yin and yang. And despite this being the ultimate goal, it unnerved Sabriel. This balance wouldn’t last forever, and when it ended their children (or grand children or great grand children) would be too decadent to deal with any problems. “Leto Letovitch is the most able, in my opinion. Unfortunately, through the matters of succession, he will receive one of the smallest realms.” The Empress stood and crossed to the other side of the room. “I worry most about Julia and Brennan. Julia isn’t nearly as beautiful as Helen and though she’s more scholarly, I feel that her personality isn’t sufficient to run a state as difficult as Galastar. And Brennan....” Sabriel shuttered. “I avoid that child when I can.”



Drake	Aug 21 2007, 03:36 PM Post #15
“Après moi, le déluge.” Posts: 3,482 Group: Administrator Member #1 Joined: June 20, 2004	In the Spooked Woods The interior of the forest was so deep and black, that barely a soul could see into it. Vines, decaying rocks, and various other trinkets of an age gone by littered the ground. The Foret-Vert, at best, was a hunting ground. At most, a place for the damned, where any soul not properly trained could very well lose their life. The Foret-Vert was the domain, and indeed, the design of Drake himself. He did not look it in his years, but had once been a formidable warrior, and although he no longer defeated dark villains and saved Zelpha, he still did enjoy to hunt and defeat Chimeras and Ogres. Drake sat astride on a war mount, his sword drawn. Riding alongside him was the Dauphin, as well as the Merian Emperor. Leto, like Drake was an avid hunter. The Dauphin was far less enthusiastic about the sport, but still possessed a certain ability about him. The trio had entered the forest only an hour ago, yet it seemed almost devoid of any monstrous presence. Drake sighed slightly, sword aslight. "Hmph, I wonder where all the beasts are?" --- Nadia nodded slightly. "It's understandable. All children have their ups and downs, Drake and yourself included. If I am correct, I believe you caused your own mother many problems, and Drake certainly cause me and his father our fair share of problems. You must simply give the children time to grow up. They are still young...it is best you let them remain so, if not for a little while longer. You and Drake are a rare breed--you were born into a time when you were forced to take responsibility. You, my dear, where not able to gossip and shop as Helen does. You had to lead a nation. Poor Drake...his youth was stolen away by the terrible tumult. Do not push your children, I plead with you."
	His Majesty, Drake, By the Grace of God, King of Serdio, the Sudland, Prince-Consort of Meria, Rei Henka of Odon, Grand Prince of Ivendell, Imperator of Eden, Protector of the Shiitan, President of the Lands of Sade


MasterRuler	Aug 21 2007, 05:56 PM Post #16
Wow... I just figured this out... Posts: 1,267 Group: Administrator Member #32 Joined: November 30, 2004	Leto had been raised on the hilly plateaus of eastern Jeds and as a child, he had hidden in the dark southern forests from the forces of Mortikan. Thus he found Drake’s hunting park both a delight and a bit of an unknown. There was so much of Meria that was undeveloped that it was curious that a man might build himself a wilderness simulation in the heart of a great city. Yet despite the strangeness of it, Leto had warmed up to the idea. It reminded him of his childhood. And as the park was nearly two miles in area, it meant that once one was in or near the center of it (as the hunting party was now), one felt very much cut off from the rest of the court. Leto had come to relish these trips with the King. These outings were fairly selective. In addition to the Dauphin and the King, there was a honor guard of four as well as three other aristocratic and avid hunters. This group, eleven in total, was (by the standards of court) tiny. There was a Galastrian Baron by the name of Astor, another Jaran prince (A Veselov) and a Serdian Viscount named Guise. Yet despite their elevated rank, they (like the guards) remained both silent and distant. This was a family outing for the King, his brother-in-law and his son. Leto scanned the horizon. He was slightly irked that Leto Letovitch had refused to come. Though his son was commonly thought of to be the most level headed and well adjusted, Leto was angered by his sons scorn of tradition. Leto didn’t hunt, nor did he care to ride (except in the Kaja game of polo which he was-to his father’s chagrin-so fond of). Leto’s eyes narrowed. “I think... perhaps I hear something...” He pointed to the north “this way!” *** The forest had a sort of, unofficial entrance, through which Helen rode. Two huge trees were large enough that their roots prevented anything from growing in between them. This sylvan gateway was about forty feet wide, with a canopy overhead some thirty yards. As she rode through this, a number of trails presented themselves to her. The wide pavilion of dirt and roots that the two huge trees created, extended some forty feet ahead of her, before it narrowed into a tiny trail similar to the more immediate ones to her right and left. She took the trail immediately to her right, thinking to ride around the perimeter of the forest, in hopes of finding her father’s hunting party. However, within fifteen minutes of her decision, she felt immediate regret. The trial had vanished, and she had been riding through brush for some time. Though she tried to turn around and return to the pavilion (where, presumably, her father would have to return in order to exit the forest), she found her self disoriented. *** “You’re right, of course.” Sabriel sighed, an echo of her mother in laws. She leaned back against the red pillows. “Both Drake and I, everyone in that generation really, were forced into roles that we were too young to fill. And now that we’ve become the status quo, I suppose we’re all angry that our children haven’t followed in our footsteps.” She paused to bite her lip. “But then of course, we overthrew the status quo, so I think if our children emulated our example, we’d all be dead...... or out of power at least.” She stood, musingly, and walked across to the divan by the window, to gaze out at the Pavilion gardens. The two lovers had gone. The beauty of that garden suddenly seemed desolate. They had stolen it’s special qualities, made it their own. It was no longer her garden. “We’re like an over bearing mother, I suppose, forcing our grown children into the roles of babies and then complaining that they don’t act like adults.” she turned. “But, I still can’t help wondering how much of my children’s immaturity is due to stupidity, and how much is due to naiveté. “You said that I caused my mother worry-” here the Empress smiled. Indeed! She had been rebellious, stubborn and strong. Strength! She had always had it. It’s what her children lacked. She had been kicked out of nearly a dozen of the best schools in the world because she had been strong enough to challenge the professors, rivals, even the rules. “-but I was always bright, scholarly even. My teachers hated my pranks and my jokes, but they loved my passion for learning. They were always sorry to see me leave.” The Empress grinned full out now. “Once....I think it might of been at the University here, though it’s possible it was in Alexandra, I set one of my professors on fire. Well, not really on fire... just his tie... well and then of course his waistcoat followed... and then his coat went up in flames.. anyway, it was a prank gone bad because, naturally I assumed that he would have taken the tie off... oh yes! I remember it fully now. The professor was a bit of a prig, a man by the name of Louis Henri Jonesque. He had written some pamphlet on the lack of morals in democratic societies and was quiet big, I suppose in his youth (he was a rather old man when I had him and almost everyone had forgotten about him). And during his youth, the king presented him with a broach Well, naturally, he wore it all the time. It was displayed prominently upon whatever cravat he was wearing that day. And anytime a student would correct him-as I said, he was fairly old and prone to make factual errors-or argue with whatever ridiculously conservative opinion he supported, he would point to this broach and remind us all that the King himself approved of his opinion and that we would do best to just shut our mouths. “Well, I remember very well that it was in December (about the fourth month since I had begun my education there) when it happened. I remember because it was during winter quarter that I had Creation and Destruction right before Serdian history-I was very young but my mother had arranged what classes I was to take with the Headmaster so I wasn’t bothered by any prerequisites-and we had just learned about how to cast fire spells. “You must keep in mind I was eager to show off this new talent because it had come rather easily and I was proud that I was the only one who wasn’t struggling with this particular spell. “I got to Serdian history, we took our seats in the lecture hall, and Jonesque began to lecture on the conflicts between Mortikan and Serdio. You have to remember that Hayholt was not well known in that time, and that there were refuge settlements all over the world. There were a number of other nobles (many richer and more influential than I), and my rank as a Princess was, to my aristocratic friends, nothing more than a novelty. “In any case, we were discussing various border wars and Jonesque, in the middle of lecturing, said that the Mortikanian Sho far out numbered the Undeads, and that the Dark Lord’s dominance was more due to our own laziness than to his power. “Well, I raised my hand and said something to the extent of: excuse me Monsieur, but there have been a number of rebellions, but they’ve all ended in such massacres that I think it’s in the Sho’s best interest to seek peace. “Of course didn’t recognize that I wasn’t Serdian, because this was my fifth serdian school and my accent had all but vanished, and so he launched into a huge dissertation about how the Sho’s peace with the dark lord was a disgusting and terrible thing, and how it showed what maggots we were, and how we would prefer to go to different countries and set up our own inbred communities than fight for our own land. “And so I raised my hand again and pointed out that the Sudland (of course it was simply called ‘The Isthmus’ then) and Ivendell were some of the wealthiest and most culturally influential states in the world and then I just quietly mentioned that Hayholt was beautiful. Just that. I didn’t want my friends to think I was bragging or trying to show up the professor, but Hayholt-in the Sho world-was very important and I wanted to include it in our discussion. “That was it for him. He began to shout and scream about how Hayholt was the worst of all, and how the people of Hayholt were idiots for accepting a Mecca ruler and how not only was it culturally devoid, but the people there were cowardly and on and on and on, and then he started talking about how Serdio would do good to march up and destroy the city because obviously it wasn’t something to take seriously, and just... oh! Horrible and ridiculous things. “I stood up, and said in my coldest voice that he was being inappropriate and historical fact and personal opinion were two different things. He turned beat red! He began clutching at his cravat and reminding us that his broach was the King’s seal of opinion, and his opinion was the King’s opinion and that he had worn it since it had been given to him and he would wear it to his grave. And I, impulsively, decided to prove myself by setting fire to it. So I did! I assumed he would throw the burning rag (and the broach that was attached) do the ground. But he didn’t, and so his entire suite caught fire!” Sabriel laughed heartily. “Goodness. Of course pandemonium broke out in the lecture hall, and once order was resumed I was summoned to the Administrative building. And the Ambassador to Serdio (who was a friend of my mother’s and acted as sort of a parental representative) was called and told that this attack meant that I would be immediately expelled and that there were several school officials calling for my arrest. Well, I was slightly perturbed, but also livid at Jonesque so I wasn’t terribly upset. “It was two days later, after I had cleared out my chambers and was set to go, when Jonesque came to me and said that I was right, he had been inappropriate and hadn’t realized he was insulting me and that I was a wonderful student and he would miss me. “He would miss me! His eyebrows were scorched and his broach was half ruined, but he would miss me! He then proceeded to compliment me on my fire casting abilities and said that there were many teachers who were protesting my explosion! “And I know you may not think that this story has a point, but it does! I was awful, I caused all sorts of problems and was undoubtedly a prankster was an almost global reputation. But I was brilliant as well. I don’t mean to be arrogant, but I was. I tried very hard in school and life. Even those who were most exasperated by my antics, admired my mind and my hard work. “The children.... they don’t have that spark. Their professors and tutors describe them as lazy... they aren’t interested. You may know John Henry Roosevelt, the Sho squire? His uncle was my mentor throughout my childhood. I caused him a huge deal of stress! Yet I’ve overheard him say that he has never had a student as ardent about learning as I. “That carries over, I think, into all other aspects of life..” The Empress paused. “My children need some sort of challenge to wake them from this sleepy, sheltered dream life they’ve lived. Even the war! When the revolutionaries tried to invade Meria, the children were tucked away at the Downs. When Esto Gaza fell to Merian troops, we were all vacationing in a Villa on the Imperial Isles. Everything that ought to have shaped their lives has happened off stage. It has had no true significance for them. I think this is the main problem....”



Drake	Aug 21 2007, 09:52 PM Post #17
“Après moi, le déluge.” Posts: 3,482 Group: Administrator Member #1 Joined: June 20, 2004	Drake held his sword tightly as he guided his war mount and hunting party deeper into the north. Leto was an experienced hunter and Drake trusted his judgment on most matters. As the party moved further into the north, Drake kept his ears open as they progressed further. The sounds of a stirring did keep him at unease. The Dauphin sighed only slightly. Hunting was exciting, yet only when there was a beast to be slain or chased after. When the grounds were silent and time was spent stalking, the Dauphin's activity to the sport fell slightly. What a pity that Leto II had not accompanied them--at least when the sport became boring there was someone interesting to talk too. The Viscount of Guise was old and dull, a former confidant of his grandfather; the Vaselov Prince was far too busy stalking his prey, and there was no use to speak to the honor guard, as out of tradition they never said anything, unless it was obey an order, when they would reply with a "Yes sir!" or "Yes ma'am!" He sighed once again. "Will you please stop sighing, Frederick?" Drake asked with a slight snap. "I can't hear." "I apologize, father." And the hunting party made it's twists and turns, and eventually, Drake caught notice of something lurking in the shadows. He smiled slightly, calling his party closer. "There's something behind those trees. It looks rather humanoid..I believe it must be an Ogre or something similar...it's simply too petite to be an ogre." Drake tipped his sword downward, both hands upon the hilt. Aside from a warrior, he was also an accomplished magician. He began chanting in an arcane tongue, as if to cast some horrid spell to fry the monster. "Spirits behind breeze.... wipe out all evil magic! Despair!" Releasing one of his gloved hands from the hilt quickly, Drake held out his right hand, and from his palm came a flash of deep blue, liquidous and quick, which morphed into tormented souls. These souls, like liquid flew at their target--the petite shadow behind the veil of the trees. --- Nadia laughed slightly at Sabriel's story. Ah, how young she had been then, and getting in all that trouble. Nadia had no idea how much trouble the Empress had caused in Serdio, but it passed by without her knowing. In those days, seldom did the Crown involve it's self in the affairs of it's people. She knew of Jonesque, of course. He had been an expert in education, and had been praised highly when Graith was King--yes, that was probably who had awarded him so lavishly. "Ah, yes, Jonesque. He was a protégé of Graith, who had praised him so much. You cannot blame Graith, however. He was old when Jonesque was so very young. He was vibrant, and Graith dying of the effects of wine and women. He only received that broach because he had complimented the old king so kindly at one of the Winter Balls. Honestly, Dionysus had found him utterly ridiculous and wanted him removed a number of times, but the school wouldn't allow it. How funny that Jonesque was the last Headmaster of the University before the Revolution..." Nadia shook her head quickly. She hated discussing that as much as Drake did. "But that is a story for another day. While it is true that the children are...lacking in vibrancy, you cannot blame them. The problems our family endured were far lighter than Mortikan, or even Sorthania. Yes, your generation was strong, and courageous. This generation will have it's time too, but you must give them time. Esto Gaza was not built in a day, you know. I understand how you wish to keep our families alive, strong, and powerful. Yet, all dynasties must wax and wane. I am afraid that it is time for the Rlugia dynasty to wane. We have held this throne for barely a century, yet the decadence has already consumed us. Dear, we are not on the road to decadence--it has already occurred." Her hands moved around the palace walls, to indicate it. "Mystice was decadent, this place even more so. If the children are to become intellectually, and indeed, physically strong, then something will need to happen. But if the scholars are true, and indeed all strife has been silenced in this world...then I'm afraid there is nothing that can be done. It is sink or swim in cases such as this." Nadia smiled tenderly. "But do not worry. Empires are not built to crumble, at least not without internal and external structures. They decay, yes, but it takes much to silence them. Let us look at Kenjiko--horribly corrupt and decadent, decayed and weak. Yet despite this, it has only been gone from our world for merely seventy-two years. That is not much time. I am only sixty-one. And the Holylands..look at their size! And look at how long they have lasted! My dear, you should not worry about decay--there is only so much one can do. Take it all strides. You are still young, your second youth barely gone. You have much time to accomplish what needs to be done, and the children have plenty more time to grow. Now, let us not speak of sadness. Tell me something happy. My old heart could use some good news these days." Nadia, despite her age, and indeed aura of a matronly wife, was wise beyond her years. It was surprising that she--a consort who had done nothing but bare children and nurture them could be so politically astute. Yet it was true. Despite this however, Nadia kept her opinions quiet, and never offered advise. She might give quips, but never once did she attempt (or wish) to direct the policy of the state.
	His Majesty, Drake, By the Grace of God, King of Serdio, the Sudland, Prince-Consort of Meria, Rei Henka of Odon, Grand Prince of Ivendell, Imperator of Eden, Protector of the Shiitan, President of the Lands of Sade


MasterRuler	Aug 23 2007, 11:40 AM Post #18
Wow... I just figured this out... Posts: 1,267 Group: Administrator Member #32 Joined: November 30, 2004	There was a cry and the phantom behind the tree split in two. Or, more accurately, the top part fell to the ground with a thud while the bottom portion whinnied and charged out from behind the trees towards the royal party. Leto instantly recognized the horse from the Imperial stables. It was white, a color reserved exclusively for the Royal family. The Emperor quickly galloped at the beast, grabbing its reins. In an act that could have only been accomplished by a horse master, the Emperor leaped from his own white stallion, to the other. Within a few moments, he had both horses calmed and in his possession. “My lord, this is a horse that only one of your children would ride-” as he said this, he was painfully aware that it could have also been Leto Letovitch’s. He prayed that it was not so, for whoever it was that had been atop this mount, would be in great pain and badly hurt. ***** Sabriel was pleased that her mother in law agreed with her. The children needed to experience some pain, some strife that might motivate them to become better people. “Something happy?” Sabriel smiled. Then she smiled broadly. “I was in my office just a bit ago and I think I may have stumbled upon a rather passionate embrace between two courtiers who’s families, I’m sure, would object to the match!” And she began to gossip, about Geeter and Hamilton, about the haute bourgeoisie who were buying apartments in the Outer Palace, despite the fact that it had very little to do with the inner palace. And as the shadows from the sun moved father and father out along the red satin carpets and expensive celestial rugs, the Empress found a bit of peace in an activity that she hadn’t quiet enjoyed since she was a very young girl.



Drake	Aug 23 2007, 03:19 PM Post #19
“Après moi, le déluge.” Posts: 3,482 Group: Administrator Member #1 Joined: June 20, 2004	Drake's face was drained of all color when the white horse was paraded before him. Leto had not yet spoken, but Drake knew it well that it was possibly one of his children. The spoken nature of Leto chilled Drake to the bone. He hated to think of such thing, and deeply hoped that the horse was merely an escaped stray. Yet he knew it was not true; he had that shrill scream, so feminine and high-pitched. It was most obviously one of his children. "Let me see what has happened!" Drake pushed back his honor guards, past the veil of trees, to see what damage he might of possibly done. Looking down, he saw his poor, beautiful Helen... --- Nadia smiled at all this petty gossip. She didn't know many of the people Sabriel referenced, yet it was interesting enough. Oh, how vividly Nadia could recall the days! It seemed just like yesterday that she had been the one gossiping with her ladies about the latest goings-on at court. When Sabriel spoke of the haute-bourgeois, Nadia could only frown. She loathed them. Those people, so petty, so fake, had been the prime cause of the Revolution. "Do you think the bourgeois are genuine in their feeling towards you? Mind you, I don't like the meddle in matters. But I was speaking to the Duchess of Méran a matter of days ago--yes, we are quite close, and we spoke of how many of those cheering you and the children when you arrived via airship had been weeks before cheering for the Consul as he road off to his last battle! I have no love lost to those people, but I cannot stand those as false as to say one thing and do another."
	His Majesty, Drake, By the Grace of God, King of Serdio, the Sudland, Prince-Consort of Meria, Rei Henka of Odon, Grand Prince of Ivendell, Imperator of Eden, Protector of the Shiitan, President of the Lands of Sade


MasterRuler	Aug 23 2007, 03:28 PM Post #20
Wow... I just figured this out... Posts: 1,267 Group: Administrator Member #32 Joined: November 30, 2004	The Princess Royal was as beautiful in pain as she was in happiness. Her dress was scorched, and one of her legs bent hideously in the wrong direction. She lay limp, her face pale. She was so still she might have been dead, was it not for the labored rise and fall of her chest Leto gasped slightly. Helen was his niece, it was true. But she was also his son’s sweet heart (at least, officially). And besides, she was so vulnerably resplendent that everyone’s heart ached at the sight of her. “What should we do?” Leto asked, quietly, looking upon her mangled form. **** “The Haute-Bourgoise.... they....are not as fickle as you assume, I think. To be honest, you are correct; they have no love for us. But, they have money and property and they want stability. I think that’s the real reason they were so easily persuaded to surrender the country back to Drake....” The Empress rubbed her hands across the satin divan. “The Consul was hindered by custom or tradition. Drake was Absolute, yes, but he was also constrained by precedence and the nobility. The Consul could do anything he wanted, and there was no class or organization that could criticize him. I think the haute bourgeois began to fear for their livelihoods”.


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