(Event) The Ceremony

The Ceremony

First, a player used the vocal amplifier to give everyone outside and inside the castle an announcement that the event was starting. Two attendants in maid uniform quickly hurried through the throne room and set down a red carpet at the foot of the platform Astor’s throne sat on and began to roll it out until it nearly reached the massive doors leading into the chamber. Then, the guards pushed the doors open, granting everyone access to the throne room. Next, massive flags rolled down and reveal themselves on each of the column framing the chamber. As people began to enter the hall, the musicians switched to something grander for the momentous event.

Hidden

Standing next to Astor’s throne, Cessia spoke with a previously unheard voice that filled the chamber.

Cessia

Lords, ladies, and the citizenry of Astorea, we are here to witness a ceremony to honor those who had contributed to the founding and rebuilding of our proud and noble nation. This nation, Astorea, is the first the first of the human Kingdoms to be led by a ‘newcomer’ King and also the first to take the broken Yladia under its wings.

While some may say that tradition has no place in this new world, his grace believes that we should honor the deeply rooted traditions of the lands. It is only then can other human nations recognize Astorea as a proper entity who abide by similar laws and tradition.

So, may I present to you, the benefactors of Astorea! Please come and kneel before the throne and kiss the Royal Signet (ring) as a sign of your submission to the Astorean crown.

The first to be called was @Seto Kurama. While the man walked up to the throne atop the carpet, applause could be heard. At the base of the platform, the maid gestured for the man to kneel before the King. Astor then presented his royal signet, waiting for Seto to follow through with the ceremony.

“To you who had donated a fortune to Astorea, I grant you the title of Duke and give you lordship over a small region at the border between Astorea and Norfova. From this day henceforth, you will answer to no authority but mine. Noblesse oblige, may you faithfully serve Astorea as its protector, Duke Seto Kurama,” Astor spoke loudly for everyone to hear, while squeezing Seto’s shoulder with one of his hands.

Once Seto finished getting the spotlight, Cessia called @Amane Hirota. The same process took place. She too had to kneel before Astor and honor the royal signet.

“For your service to the throne and reestablishment of our capital months ago when you were still a part of [VALOR], I grant you the title of Marchioness and ladyship over small land at the eastern border of Astorea. I have high expectation for you and your expertise over magic. Noblesse oblige, may you faithfully serve Astorea as its mage, Marchioness Amane Hirota.”

Then, Cessia introduced the last of the big three, @Alonso Thorlion.

“For your service to the throne and reestablishment of our capital and also the camaraderie of our time fighting on the same battlefield months ago, I grant you the title of Marquess and lordship over land in the western border of Astorea. However, I have heard of your desire in the letter addressed to me, as such, you may also stay in the capital and establish your base here. Noblesse oblige, may you faithfully serve Astorea as its fists of vengeance, Marquess Alonso Thorlion.”

Next was @Ilusa Nakhalee ’s turn to be addressed.

“For your service to the throne and reestablishment of our capital and being one of my closest and most cherished companions, I grant you the title of Countess and management rights over the temple that will be built in due time. Noblesse oblige, may you faithfully serve Astorea as its Healer, Countess Ilusa Nakhalee,” Astor said, before he pushed her white bang to the side and planted a kiss on the Felis’ forehead.

Following the Feline is yet another, @Kyupin Felnya.

“I commend you as someone who had joined the game fairly late, yet contributed much effort to the citizenry of Astorea and for helping to reestablish our capital. For your efforts, I grant you the title of Countess and land here just outside of the capital, which you may do with it as you wish. Noblesse oblige, may you faithfully serve Astorea, Countess Kyupin Felnya,”

Although @Alphabet Chocolate @Roland Rutledge and @Alice were called, none seemed to be present at the ceremony and were skipped as a result. Next on the list was @Gwyn ap Herne.

“For your service to the throne and reestablishment of our capital and vested interest in the Yladian welfare, I grant you the title of Viscountess and land within the Yladian areas, which they have agreed to grant, or land outside of the capital,” if the large woman was willing to kneel, Astor would finish the rest of his speech, “Noblesse oblige, may you faithfully serve Astorea, Viscountess Gwyn ap Herne,”

@Solaria

“For your service to the throne and reestablishment of our capital and vested interest in business here in Astorea, I grant you the title of Viscountess and land within the capital where you may set up your shop at a later time. Noblesse oblige, may you faithfully serve Astorea, Viscountess Solaria.”

@Harveste

“For your service to the throne and reestablishment of our capital, I grant you the title of Baroness and free rooming while you stay in the capital. Noblesse oblige, may you faithfully serve Astorea, Baroness Harveste.”

@Ashiore Evretto

“For your service to the throne and reestablishment of our capital and vested interest in business here in Astorea, I grant you the title of Baroness and land within the capital where you may set up your shop at a later time. Noblesse oblige, may you faithfully serve Astorea, Baroness Ashiore Evretto.”

@Ruh Murad

“For your service to the throne and reestablishment of our capital and vested interest in business here in Astorea, I grant you the title of Baron and land within the capital where you may set up your shop at a later time. Noblesse oblige, may you faithfully serve Astorea, Baron Ruh Murad.”

@Ursa

“For your service to the throne and reestablishment of our capital and vested interest in business here in Astorea, I grant you the title of Baroness and land within the capital where you may set up your shop at a later time. Noblesse oblige, may you faithfully serve Astorea, Baroness Ursula.”

Cessia

And so, this conclude our ceremony. Let us now celebrate this day with food, drinks, and dancing for the rest of the evening!

After reciting such similar speech so many times, Astor succumbed to a coughing fit, which was only cooled down by cactus juice, which had been brought as a gift for his sickness from an unknown sender. As the King, it was quite natural for him to have a food taster to make sure his meal and drinks aren’t poisoned. Though the cactus juice might not have been poisonous, the taste was indescribably toxic. Though, it did cool down his burning throat.

Once he had finished hydrating himself, Astor leaned back into his throne and watched the hall explode into a festival as people introduced themselves to one another, dancing on the floor, flirting, drinking, courting, all in an effort to expand their social network and establish business relation. This was paving toward prosperity for Astorea.

Bored by the socializing, Astor gestured for his coat before he stepped out into the balcony, having no desire to talk politics for the moment.

OOC

Rules:

• This is the continuation of (Event) Ceremonious Dormont
• The thread is open to all players.
• There is no posting order. Also, you may exit the thread at any time.
• Tag those you want to address using @Username.
• Everyone is free to react and socialize in this thread.
• If you character is doing anything contrary to the ceremony when they are called, PM me or tag @Asch in the post and we can go back to that scene and expand it.

Note:

• All titles will be added to the compendium.
• Anyone who was absent from the ceremony just now may either have a late-arrival ceremony or the news of their title will be sent to their inbox.
• The detail of the big land given to @Seto Kurama @Amane Hirota and @Alonso Thorlion will be given more details at a later time.
• Anyone who were given options may contact me to make their decision.
• Any land given for shop can be used toward opening a business (if you had a domestic skill). This means the amount of money you donated can be used in getting a business, but there will be a 20% tax.

 

"Wait, wait, wait!" Alpha interrupted, dashing forward to the scene with bread crumbs around her mouth, her hair disheveled, and with a piece of buttered toast jammed between her teeth. She was a complete mess and only her pair of canine ears and her cherished rose was left intact. She climbed up the small staircase to the throne and, with a breath of relief, did a pose. Or, to be more exact, a dab. Right in front of the audience, some of which seemed to have some gobsmacked expressions at this ludicrous act. "Alphabet Chocolate has made her swift arrival! Oh, wait!" she eyed @Astor Balthas with an inquisitive glancing, looking up, down, around, below, and on top of him with a squint. After a few moments of examining him from every possible angle, her face slackened with serendipity and a light bulb went off above her head. She snapped her fingers. "You! You're the guy that got molested by that gorilla, right? Haha! I remember you now! Oh, thanks for the save by the way! I was, like, halfway to death!"

Finally, with a fluid bow, she deigned him with a smirk. "Man, everything's just gloom and doom over here! I am so gonna make all your furniture AWESOME! Like, you seriously need some rethinking on your interior design choices," she leaned down and scooped a pile of dirt on the floor (that had been brought in by Alphabet herself once she had tread through those doors with muddied shoes). Her nose wrinkled in disgust and she gagged, sticking her tongue out. "And some professional maid service. I should get Annette to help you do your stuff or something! Anyways, nice to formally meet ya King...something something something!"

Hidden: The reason for her late arrival

And, almost like it was an afterthought (which it was), she explained the reason for her late arrival: "Anyways! So I was walking down the street, right? And then a guy with a wagon and this huge bird started to hand out eggs and I was like 'hurry up!' cause he was stalling traffic so I had to take an alternative route over to the castle, right? So, after that, I walked up to the taxi guy; or, well, a guy with a carriage, and asked him for a lift. Well I found out I didn't have much money cause I pretty much spent it all of the rebuilding thingy and some cool stuff!" she brandished her dagger before swiftly returning it back into its sheath. She took a laborious breath. "So! I had to pay him off somehow, right? So I went off to take a quest from one of the local farmers and he needed to feed his pigs except they were man-eating hogs so I had to go and butcher someone up, namely the stingy taxi guy, and then I had to feed them. And I think I was supposed to be outside of the pig pen cause those pigs were rabid! I'm telling you, they were like beasts from Hell and the farmer kept insisting they were called hogs while I was being chased here and there and everywhere! Eventually, I kinda got fed up with it and killed the pigs and then the guy got angry at me so I was like 'if you love those pigs so much, why don't you feed them?' and then, to prove my point, I picked him up and tossed him into the pig pen and there was, like, three starving pigs left amidst the corpses of its brethren. Yeah. I'm pretty sure he didn't like those pigs nearly the same as he did before he got eaten alive. After that, I realized I was hungry! So I took one of the pigs in, cooked it into bacon, and got some toast to eat with it. The problem with the bacon was that it kinda had some human in it and I was like 'nah' and kinda just sold it at the market so I had money to pay the taxi guy! So I go out, with buttered toast in hand, and begin to look for him. But he's nowhere! I thought he'd respawn or something after he died so I was really disappointed. So I went to the market, got a barrel of explosives, and then came here! Haha! Long story, right?"

There was a moment of horrified shock that rang through the gathered crowd.

 

​

The lavishness of the ceremony could not be overstated, for it seemed no finery had been spared in making sure that all would be able to enjoy even the tedium of rite and ritual. While customarily it was a terrible burden to have to sit through such events, the pageantry and sense of... pride, of purpose, was marginally more intoxicating than the fine wines available to attendees.

Merchants, Gentry high and low, adventurers, Guild representatives, nobles from Falderen and further. The crowds on either side of the throne room were a menagerie of colorful characters, with a vast aisle between them to allow for those called to approach the throne and receive the boon and blessing of their king. Rapt attention seemed to be paid by most in the crowd, Alligans no less so than others. Standing near the back, so that his height and the gaze-shattering size of his headdress would not block anybody's view, he quietly observed the line of successions as title after title was given to the heroes of Astorea. His posture was stiff, his gaze locked ahead as those he had talked and danced with were awarded the highest honors to start.

Seto, the Fiend Knight, the only one to be named Duke. It made the man the second most powerful man in all of Astorea, and in a game of titles, superior to Alligans himself. Though the foreigner was not sworn to fealty to Astorea and bore it no allegiance, as Seto descended the steps after receiving his title, Alligans gave a respectful bow in the back to 'salute' the man's new station. He did likewise as Alonso Thorlion was named Marquess, which was a step below a Duke but a step above an Earl. He, too, was Alligan's social superior then. As Amane was called he applauded lightly with his hands and watched her take to the throne, a far more formal bow offered to her as she made her return. In fact, he did not rise from it until she had rejoined him towards the rear, at which point offered her a quiet congratulations.

His attention remained fixed on the proceedings, his bows stopping. Ilusa and Kyupin were named Countesses, his social equals, and so he had no reason to formally bow to them or anybody ranked lower than them from that point forwards. In fact, aside from light applause, he barely reacted... until Alphabet took to the throne.

His stance was rigid the moment such an uncouth figure took to the king, the tense posture making it clear that he thought the child's presence was a mistake, or a joke. And then she began to speak, the tension in his body growing worse and worse.

and then the magic happened

​

It was the very moment that she spoke of "man-eating hogs" a quarter of the way through her diatribe that he raised a hand and snapped his fingers. The loud CLINK of his golden rings could be heard even above her voice, and then several flashes of light appeared across the throne room as a spell fell across it. A thick, muddy sensation filled the air but did not prohibit breathing; rather people would merely feel enveloped as... all sound failed to reach them. Not a cough, a sigh, a gasp, or a dropped goblet of wine would make a sound that could be heard, for all was blocked, the room momentarily deafened. The obvious Phantasmia casting enshrouded the room and its guests, sparing them the horrors of whatever Alphabet was revealing... leaving them in stunned and shocked silence after she had finished whatever she were saying.
@Astor Balthas, @Alphabet Chocolate, and Alligans himself would be the three select that the spell did not touch. Alligans as he chose to hear, Alphabet as they were her own words, and Astor because he was too far to reach, it seemed, from the opposite side of the room.

The spell would drop as soon as Alphabet left the center of attention, and the steps of the throne.

 

It seemed that she had been quite right about her timing. Late, but just in time to listen to the ceremony as it kicked off. She recognized most of the names or faces of those called before her, but only truly knew @Kyupin Felnya. Countess Felnya? The archer wondered in passing just how much her dear friend had given to these people that she stood so high up in the roster, above names who predated Gwyn's own in the game at that. She wanted to be proud of her, but all of it felt... distant. It felt like a movie reel, not a world breathing around her as it changed the course of history in this strange place.

Each rose to either kneel or deny and a few simply were not in attendance. She didn't care to watch, didn't draw her eyes away. Gwyn left them on Astor. It didn't sound like he was making shit up. It didn't sound like he was playing a game, but he was. Whether he honestly cared about the NPCs now entirely resigned to his care or not, none of this sat right with her. She felt like she had a pebble in her hiking boot the size of the mountain itself.

When her own name was called she was as surprised as she was not. The ranger didn't think her own offerings were that massive. Surely he would have chosen people to rule parts of his nation that he knew and trusted? Members of Yulan, close friends, brothers and sisters in arms he had battled beside. Then again, she had seen him fight as being 'when he fucking deigned to do so.' Her grip on the bottle of lovely, honeyed alcohol tightened. She sat it gently to the side. Whatever his reason, be it her offered contributions, her strength, or an honest belief she could do right by people? She wouldn't- couldn't stomach it.

She stepped forward like the others who had gone before to kneel and accept their rank, save that she did not make it to the throne itself. The huntress stopped, Nathair weaving between her steps turned into a loose coil of shimmering scales around her. Its golden eyes leered at the gathered folks who strayed nearer, but refrained from hissing in a small show of mercy. Gwyn was finding it difficult to find the words, tone, or general attempt at polite conversation at this point. There were too many people and she hated this courtly nonsense. This was not her place. That much she could say. At the same time, however, Gwyn knew enough not to spit in the eye of the nation. She didn't want to make an enemy or make a weak chink in their armor for an enemy of Astorea to strike. That was... a thing right? Regardless, all she could do was obey who she was at her core with a bit more polish.

"No, my thanks for the offer and all, but no. We live with one foot here, Astor... I have no right over those who live with both. I wouldn't want it even if I did." She struggled to keep her voice and expression flat rather than twisted up in disgust or irritance. She hated this. "If those lands have to go somewhere, give them to the Yladian elders or to K- Countess Felnya. I trust her. When I said I would only ask for somewhere to stow my mounts or tames, I meant only that." Gwyn refused to bow, chin lifting in the slightest movement. At this point the ranger wasn't sure if it was an instinctive show of confidence or a defensive movement. The tall woman was proud that she could at least say neither her hands nor her voice shook. "Keep the title, I'll earn my own."

@Astor Balthas @Asch​

 

"Saber, do keep an eye on ABC. Make sure she doesn't blabber our secrets to the mongrel king and his pitiful subjects"

Twas' the last message given to Eldhi before she left the Vermillion Manor for the ceremony in the newly-rebuilt Dormont Castle, located in the capital of the Kingdom of Astorea. Where the so-called Player King was celebrating his coronation, officially declaring himself as the de jure leader of the Player Kingdom. Personally, Eldhi couldn't care less about him or the kingdom. She might in the past but now, she served Mistress and no one else. However, if Mistress deemed it was necessary to go there then so shall it be.

Apparently, Alphabet was one of the people who contributed to the rebuilding project through monetary donations. Why...? Sure this was Alpha she was talking about, the most random and unpredictable person she had ever met, yes, even more than Vermillion herself. However, she couldn't shake the feeling that everything was according to Mistress' plans. "...ah." Then it struck her, how genius, with Alpha being granted a title by the mongrel king, she would be among his inner circle, his trusted benefactors. Heh... through the Kunoichi, Mistress would extend her web of influence there. Such cunning was expected of the Arch-Vampire. Though. why Alpha? Why not someone else? Perhaps the sheer randomness of the Ninja girl would mask any suspicions about her true allegiance.

---

Arriving at the extravagantly decorated throne room of the reconstructed castle just as @Alphabet Chocolate made her hurried entrance, the white-haired Knight continued to stalk the plucky brunette, quite a reversal considering their respective expertise. She blended amongst the crowd of adventurers, clad in heavy armor with her longsword strapped to her back. Her lower tier gear blended nicely with the crowd compared to the fancier folk.

There Alpha was, making her way up to the elevated platform where throne sat upon, hair more unkempt than a certain blonde tinkerer, and a literal piece of bread held between her teeth. "..." By Vermillion, was she serious? Oh right, yes, Alphabet and seriousness couldn't be put in the same sentence. Let's just hope she didn't destroy everything Mistress had planned with her-... and of course, she just had to. "Tch..." Clicking her tongue in annoyance, Eldhi could barely hold herself from going up there and drag her back when the Kunoichi started prattling about the King being molested by a gorilla, then criticizing his taste on design, scooping up dirt she brought, and by the roses, even revealed Vermillion's head maid's name!

"..." Eldhi was practically quivering with mixed perplexity and rage, Alphabet had gone too far, however, if she went up there, she'd just make things worse. Witnessing an affront to her Mistress before her very eyes yet unable to do anything about it was not good for her composure. This... this shall not go unheard, she'd report this to Mistress, Alphabet must be punished for this. There was a limit on how foolishly talkative one could be.

Watching in despair as Alphabet's mouth endlessly poured word after word, attracting unnecessary attention to herself, Eldhi didn't expect an unlikely savior to come up with an ingenious solution. "Hmm...?" An arcane spell was cast by an unknown party, muffling every voice and sound in the room. Eldhi couldn't hear anything, that'd also mean the crowd wouldn't hear... whatever horrors Alpha would say next.

While she was relieved, the knight had no reason to believe the spell was specifically meant to silence the Kunoichi. Who knows, perhaps someone was staging an assault on the throne room. It was likely as there numerous important figures of Astorea gathered in the room, including the King himself. Putting one hand on the grip of her longsword, Eldhi's red eyes went alert for any sign of ambush or assassination attempt, she took a few step back, back slightly hunching... and due to the unnatural silence in the throne room, then the sounds returned without any incidents.

The damage was done but at least, it wouldn't escalate further. Mistress wouldn't be pleased, even a simpleton could see that.

 

During the Ceremony

Two intense green eyes took in the proceedings. Astor was really getting into this king role of his. The green eyes shifted to a drink sitting on her chair arm. Picking up the small glass of water. Never would this person drink anything but purified spring water. She lowered the glass and scanned the room, both with her eyes and other ways that only this person could. A few people passed and asked how she was doing.

"Perfectly Dormont! Such a inviting and charming atmosphere. Including a bit of comedy as well. It's certainly hasn't Falderen apart. I'm just grateful to his majesty to allow so many into this event."

She responded causing a lot of eye rolling at the manner of speech she used. The girl wore a very long skirt, down to the point that only that her shoes peaked through the bottom.Her delicate white blouse was buttoned perfectly and her dainty left hand had a thin silver bracelet that had a perplexing diamond that had not emitted a spec of shine. Making many assume it was fake. Such a pitiful handicapped girl was not of any warrant to anyone around. All fine with Xsune.

Xsune remained near a table and only drank water and nibbled on the healthiest food available. Sitting as always in her heavily customized mobile chair. She smiled politely at some of the scenarios playing out. However in truth everything here screamed imperfection. Just another kingdom to rise and fall like all other civilizations. Even in a fantasy setting... all the same.

Xsune saw the two newest members of Vermillion's collection among the people here. She made no attempt to talk or otherwise involve herself with them. This was for her own personal research and... to keep tabs on with who they mingle. Sadly while powerful, Vermillion lacked a masterful hand. She was far to obvious and had no idea how to properly deal with the world other than on her terms. For someone over four thousand years old... that was proof enough that perfection was not something that simply happened to someone...

Luckily she had never met Alphabet nor Eldhi at the manor yet. Vermillion had yet to assemble the whole of Vermillion XIII. This was a good thing. It kept Tensai from having to change her avatar or something to maintain her neutrality in affairs. The girl continued to just keep tabs on goings on. With her hand resting upon the mysterious right arm's sphere embedded into it. If anyone wanted to talk to her or if she felt the need to speak to another. One would have to wait and see...

 

Kyupin shuffled uncomfortably under the weight of all the stares on her, her face flushing from neck to ear. She'd donated for a selfish reason: specifically for the promised land so she could shelter the poor animals being displaced by the expanding kingdom. Nobody had told her she'd become some fancy noble for it! And a countess, at that! Kyupin didn't like counting!

On her wobbling legs, Kyupin sunk to her knees before the king, an arm crossed over her chest. Vulcan followed suit, leaning low and pressing his snout to the floor. A show of respect from the canine.

Despite the waver in her voice, she spoke, "Thank you, King Astor."

And then she was free to go, scurrying off the stage with nary a look to the crowd. Oh god, they probably thought she was dumb, standing up there on the stage like a fool and being commended for her... what, her efforts?! She'd been useless! People had died in her attempts to help the Yladians, Eleanor had had to sacrifice herself to end the deadly fire prince, and now, now she was trying to be selfish and getting praised. Her eyes burned with unshed tears as she finally escaped into the crowd, trying to slip out to the outer walls.

She felt lightheaded, plucking and nursing a glass of (hopefully) water as she neared the walls of the grand room. Here, she could catch her breath. She sipped at the drink, choking as it burned, bitter, down her throat. Alcohol. And then there was @Gwyn ap Herne, declining the noble status and practically gifting the land to Kyupin instead.

Her heart dropped, trying to ignore some of the curious stares directed her way. She looked to the drink in her hands, almost crushing it in her fist, and then back to her well-meaning friend. She felt sick. "Oh god." She squeezed her eyes shut, shuddered, and knocked back the entire glass. It burned on its way down, almost taking her mind off of all the people staring at her. At least she had Vulcan, nudging her thigh with his cool snout, to keep her somewhat grounded.

It was easy for her to mistake the sudden silence in the room as her panic taking a hold of her, blocking out everything except for the blood rushing in her ears. When sound snapped back into place, she didn't even notice.

 

Everything transpired so quickly from a few minutes ago when he was speaking to Alonso and the Earl Alligans of Gild to now what he had been working towards for months since his humble beginng's anow it was becoming a reality. Watching the announcers move hastily around the castle in an effort to tell the news that the event was starting, his eyes were later drawn to the two maids who laid down red carpet from the king's throne to the doors of the castle itself, no doubt for the King to use or for those who part of the ceremony. As people hurried in quickly to get a spot to watch, he took his position near the main doors just as Lady Cessia began the ceremony with her speech to those like himself who had contributed to the founding of New Astorea, others would call it rebuilding but the reality wasthat this nation would probably be far different than the Old Astorea everyone knew of. Lady Cessia wasn't wrong that this was the first player nation but for long he wondered, He had his own omen thoughts on the matter at hand but decided to discard such idea's, as long King Astor proved to be a capable leader in politics and war, there would be no need for such action. Luckily for him and most likely many others, Lady Cessia was quick with her words as soon as she reached the climax of her speech, an announcer called out his name first.​

He was ready, this was what he was waiting for, taking in a deep breath in before releasing it in an effort to calm himself, he stepped forward, walking slowly to the throne while looking forward. All these people, Nobles, merchants and players alike all beamed their eyes on him, some with respect, some in awe and some even spiteful towards him but he tried his best to ignore such people, this was a great day after all for him, he was sure as hell wasn't going to allow some idiots ruin it for him, they did applause for him however. Finding himself at the base of the throne, he took a moment to look up at the throne before beginng his ascenion to noblehood, slowly walking up the steps, along the way in the corner of his eye, he took a mental note as Earl Alligans of Gild bowed in respect. Opon reaching the correct step, he was stopped by one of the maids who gestured him to kneel before the king, he did exactly that, getting on one leg, he sat on his left leg while his right remained halfway, he lowered his head until the King himself presented his royal signet ring. As the King held his arm in the air near him, Seto lowered his head and gently withh his lips, he kissed the signet ring before pulling away dropping his head again, looking at the red carpet as a Knight should, the King squeezing his arm as hespoke his words, granting him the title of Duke as well as control of a region at the border of Astorea and Norfova along with his final gift he answered no one in these lands but the King himself. Him a Duke? He knew he was going to be given a noble title but Duke? Astor was no fool, with this title in hand as Duke Kurama, He would only be second in power in these lands, only the King himself held more power than. On top of that, he got an entire region to himself, it wasn't huge of course but all that land! All the possibilities he could do were endless. He didn't have time to think about this information at all as he was in the middle of a Ceremony. Getting a hold of himelf, he raised himself off his legs after the King was finished speaking, lowering his head and making a fist that covered his heart, he nodded before turning around to face the people in the throne room.

"Let it be known now that while I am no white knight in shining armor or some gallent hero, I Seto Kurama now known as Duke Kurama of the Kingdom of Astorea who has pledged his service and his very own life to King Astor the first, Let it be known I will not rest until the enemies of Astorea no longer draw breath and Astorea enter's it's first golden age of Prosperity."

With his small speech now done, he wasted no more of anyone's time, walking down the red carpet to allow the ceremony to continue as planned. After he was out of the spotlight, he sighed a little, thankful it was over for now anyway. Laying against a wall with his arms crossed, he watched as Amane was granted the title of Marchioness, he was a little jealous how the King told her he had high expectations for you, did he not have the same for him as well? He didn't get much time to think about it as Lady Cessia called Alonso to the throne and granting him the title of Marquess and the unoffical tittle of Astorea's fist of Vengeance. Seto rolled his eyes when Illusa, Astor's pet pocket mage was summoned and granted the tittle of Countess and given control of the temple that would be built in the future, he wasn't really a fan of her since she didn't bother to heal him during the battle of Azog, instead she wasted all her energy with Astor himself. After Illusa came a Felis he didn't know, a small girl by the name of Kyupin, now that he heard her name again, he did remember her sending a substantial amount of materials for the reconstruction. After Kyupin was granted the tittle of Countess, he was baffled when three people were called forth but didn't show, he was amazed someone would miss a ceremony this important, what could be more important than being in a ceremony with a King?
Seto nearly fell overhimself when he heard Sola be summoned before the King "WHAT?" He yelled slightly without thinking beofre face palming himself for doing such a thing "Go figure, just my dam luck.....yeah like someone like her could manage land, she can't even manage party of a few people and the King wants to giver her land? ugghhhh." He muttered to himself under his breath as Sola was granted the title of Viscountess and land outside the captial.​

The next person was Harveste which made him nearly face palm himself again but he didn't at the last moment, while Sola was an impulsive idiot, at least Harveste had the brains for the duties a noble had. Luckily for his sanity, the two had lower rank than him and were given their own land with Harveste given some land in the city to build a shop. After that, he didn't know the remaining three that was remaining, there was Ashiore who was named a Baroness who was also given some land, there was Ruh who was also given Baron as a title as well as land and finally there was Ursa who was made a Baroness ans given some land in the city. Finally after all that, Lady Cessia concluded the ceremony and gave everyone permission to basically have fun, something he could agree with more! He need a drink, a strong drink at that. Walking around, as well as greeting new people who stopped him along the way, he found himself eventually at a table comprised of mugs with alcohol. Grabbing himself a IPA Ale from the table, he poured his selected drink in the mug and took a twirl of it, gupling down his first alcohol in some time, It was good, the taste excellent and there was no burn, just how he liked it.​

 

The green eyed child eyes fell on a girl who seemed to be quite off over her assigned station. So... she was not having fun was she? Suffering, so many suffer all the time and how many notice? Why do they suffer? Xsune was not 'her' so she could not completely understand. Only that it needed to be fixed. This girl was just another victim of life. The girl popped a small grape tomato into her mouth and chewed quietly. She made one last glance at Alphabet to hope she did not explode into a massacre or something, it was impossible to know with that personality type. Unexpected things were not something Tensai was happy with. It was impossible to make plans with that. Yet Vermillion takes what Vermillion wants. Anyway... she felt a light sorrow for those who could not deal with things like this. Imperfection was so disturbing.

The girl maneuvered her vehicle along the outer edge of the room, partly to get through the crowd and partly to stay less noticeable. She was up for chit chat but preferred to not be bothered right now. Xsune parked right next to the Felis. She held a small plate of vegetables in her lap. From which she had taken the previous tomato. Xsune gave a concerned look to the girl.

"Excuse me miss? You seem very off balance. Is it a bit much? To be given such responsibility? Sigh... and this world is supposed to be 'fun'. Terrasphere is pretty down to earth isn't it? Care for a bit of vegetarian cuisine? It isn't perfect but most nothing ever is. I am willing to lend a ear if it makes you feel better..."

@Kyupin Felnya

 

Ash could only just stare in shock as Alphabet Chocolate blazed through some story about why she was late. It started off unbelievable enough, and people around her began muttering to each other as the story took a turn for the worse and bizarre. Was she- was she hearing right? About man-eating boars and-

Silence washed over the room. Pure, complete silence. People around her were cut off mid-whisper, there was no sound of rustling cloth or clinking jewelry. And Alphabet was still chattering, apparently, mouth moving but no sound coming out.

Someone must have cast a spell. Ash didn't quite know how powerful a caster one would have to be to cast something that affected basically the entire room, but someone silencing the entire room must be a pretty well-trained mage. Ash looked around, but there didn't appear to be anyone who obviously stuck out as the one who cast the spell. Not that she could really see anyway, there were a lot of people a lot taller than she was blocking the view.

The sound returned after a time, coinciding with Alphabet leaving the platform. More names were called, more people went through the whole ceremony, and the closer that Ashiore's own name got to being called, the more nervous she got.

And, at last, she was called. Ash took a deep breath and tried to push her way through the crowd, meekly murmuring apologies to people that she squeezed past. Once to the front of the crowd, Ash had to take another breath to steady herself and went through the motions of kneeling, showing deference to the crown and throne.

She still felt uncomfortable about all this. Didn't know what she was doing, what was happening with the whole nation, what exactly was going on in the game's political sphere. Was this appropriate? Did she deserve a title and land in this fledgling kingdom, after standing against it?

But, this wasn't the time or place for such questions. Her part in this done, Ash quickly stepped off the platform and made her way back to the edges of the room. She wouldn't leave just yet, in case there was still another part to this ceremony. But she preferred having a place to contemplate and figure out for herself exactly how she felt about this entire thing.

 

Kyupin's head shot up as a voice spoke up, her shoulders jerking with the sudden movement. It took her a moment to calm down enough for her flattened ears to relax, her stiff tail drooping back down to the ground. It then took her another moment to find the owner of the voice, her eyes dropping slightly to look at what seemed to be a variation of a... wheelchair? Some sort of mechanized chair, at least.

She felt the nausea in her guts intensify with the reminder of her real life so blatantly before eyes. A few blinks and thick swallows, and Kyupin managed to work up the will to speak. "It's... a lot to take in," she admitted, tail swishing behind her and fingers digging into her skirt, "I don't know if I deserve it? The title, I mean. I just want to help people."

She looked at the offered plate and shook her head slightly. She felt a little too ill to really stomach anything, and the idea of vomiting from nervousness was enough to stop her from grabbing a bite to eat. "No thanks. I'm not really hungry."

Kyupin looked at all the people gathered for this formal occasion, squeezed into this fanciful room with fanciful food and furniture, and simply couldn't picture herself in it. She wanted to live among her many animals, playing with them and laughing, helping out whoever she could. Not... sitting in a room talking about things that she could be doing instead, playing politics as if that would make a difference for all the people suffering.

"I'm Kyupin Felnya," she said. And then blinked, remembering she'd, not too long ago, been called up on stage and introduced to the entirety of the room. "Ah, but I guess you know that? Um. What's your name?"

@Vermillion (XIII)

 

As the ceremony started, Sylpha went in and like any excited bystander pushed her way into a good vantage spot where she could see things going on.

Then, like any good tourist player, Sylpha... got out the camera function and started recording. The whole coronation, the granting of titles of Count and Baron and Countess and Baroness and... dear lord, this ceremony was going on ridiculously long. At least it wasn't completely boring. Someone even rejected the title given to her.

Then, because a ceremony held by players could only go so long without something completely off the rails happening, someone jumped in and started speaking a great deal of words in some hyperactive manner. Before she could actually finish, some movement by someone important (as noted by the lack of people standing near him) fired a spell into the air and silenced... everything. Sylpha recorded it all.

She couldn't record the words that were censored, and unless @Alphabet Chocolate was facing the crowd enough (or to be exact, Sylpha's position) for her lips to be read, no one would ever find out what it was that she really said.

Sylpha did, however, skip people's obvious bewilderment at the sudden magical silence and looked for people who had any other expression. The person who cast the magic had far too stoic an expression to be worth capturing for any moment other than the casting of the magic, so Sylpha left the feed facing the throne in case anyone up there had any reaction.

 

After a short talk with @Astor Balthas, Ilusa moved back, letting the preparations for the ceremony be underway. It was bit lively, bit busy, but Ilusa herself was focusing more on the dilemma, on the problem of Astor being sick and her Illumancy not being capable of healing it.

It rubbed her the wrong way, her inability to help him. Now, her actual Alchemy could allow her to maybe shorten the time he spent being sick, but it could not cure him and that was just. Bad. Ignoring the fact that in this game she thrived off healing and undoing damage others have caused, Astor was someone that was a friend, a Player she did not mind and formed a sort of attachment and seeing him sick, unable to do anything to stop it, did not sit well with her.

A red carpet was rolled out. Guards opened the room. People filled the place even more, flags appeared, music changed. The place became even more grand, even more formal.

The event was underway.

The familiar voice was talking and Ilusa listened to it, rather than reading it in the chat (because yes she messed with the options enough to see the words of event important people talking, be it Players or NPC).

When the first man was called, Ilusa clapped along, eyeing the man. He was familiar; in the way of having seen him fighting in her vicinity against the Boss. She had almost healed him, but at the end, she had prioritised Astor first and then other, more immediately hurt players. “Duke, hm?” That was quite a title. For a moment she wondered just how much money did the man give to the cause. There was also quite a speech that the man gave. It was quite impressive. He was named a Protector to boot.

Then, there was another familiar sight, a felis Player whom she had seen in the fight, an attacker and healer. She became a Marchioness, the mage of Astorea. Next was also someone she had seen, but she remembered them only because of their rather unusual looks, aside from him, all the felis she had seen were on the slender side. He became a Marquess, so-called fist of vengeance. Then it was her turn.

All the eyes were on her. Some were awed. Some were displeased. Some were carefully neutral. Some were curious. It was nothing new, she was used to being the centre of attention. But her position was new. As she reached the correct step, a maid stopped her. Thus, Ilusa knelt, her dress pooling around her. Her head down, her tail laid flat, her ears lowered a little in a show of submission.

What he said made her smile softly, because in a way was it not true? They knew each other from the start of the game. But what made her heart flutter was the fact that he had listened to what she asked for; a temple. A temple which she would manage!

With the signet presented, she gave it a kiss, swearing herself to Astorea, to be its healer, intending to become even better Healer and Alchemist.

And then, she felt a brush on her forehead, her hair was shifted to side and warm lips pressed on her forehead. Ilusa could not help but widen her eyes. Being named one of his closest and most cherished companions was one thing (even when it was done during such ceremony) being given such kiss was a show of favour that further cemented her position in the hearts of the people, especially the Non-Players. Her heart fluttered, excitement and nerves fighting; because she was made special right now, and she would be seen either as weakness or an inn to Astor. ‘Ugh. Politics, can’t escape them even here, huh?’ That stray thought was shoved away and she stood up, smiling at Astor, but curtsying.

“I swear to do my utmost to be worthy of this honour, Your Majesty.” It was ambiguous, on purpose. One could read into it. Or not. That done she retreated to her corner, her heart beating and her eyes shining showing that she was moved. Of course she observed the proceedings, seeing other Players that she had seen before. A fellow felis whom she barely managed to save. Then few names were said that were not present, a single name echoing deeply inside her reminding her that it she owed the two tanks good ale. Her eyebrow rose when a woman she had seen gave away her lands and.. decided that this title of Viscountess was not something she wished (that pet was rather adorable).

Well, if this was her wish why she had not sent a voice mail or chat message asking for that? Astor, after all, had specified in his voicemail that those who donated would be given land. And in a game where Kingship and Aristocracy was a thing, possessing land also meant being titled… Then again perhaps she was being unfair.

She glanced around to see the reaction toward it, for a short while before another person was called forth. After Next Viscountess it was time for the Baronesses (and a Baron).

It really was astonishing that so far, every one of those called forth were.. Familiar to her, at least. She had seen them. And taking into account that her impression was strong, that meant that they had been part of the World events that she took part in.

Then, the ceremony was over and the people immediately moved, talking among themselves with each titled person being a hot topic, looked at, glanced at. Some were even approached, others watched from afar. (Astor coughed, just why they did not have a good enough Alchemist? He was a King!)

Ilusa licked her lips and went over to the tables, taking one of the drinks, her hands gripping the glass bit tighter than necessary.

It was but a game and yet, it felt so very like the many meetings and galas she had to attend in real life. Change the clothes to modern ones, ignore the inhuman traits and it was just like the real life.

‘Fuck.’ That was not why she started this game. In fact she had enough of all that politicking and she now wanted to pull Astor, that is, get away from the spotlight. But she couldn’t her honed instincts were blaring against doing that.

She decided to stay here for a while, see if someone (a Player, but hopefully and NPC, she really preferred the NPC to Players) would come over to make a talk, and only then pull an Astor and go to a less busy part, like the balcony.

There was also a dramatic entrance and then there had been silence.. Which was odd.

 

Amane waited with baited breath as Seto was called forwards, and then it was her turn to ascend before the throne. When she had donated that sum of money to the King, she hadn't expected to be rewarded with a title. She had left her request blank, in fact, not having wanted anything for herself, except perhaps good relations with the player kingdom. To think that Astor would make her such a crucial part of it...a devious move, she had to admit. Before today she had no official ties with Astorea, but after being granted so much? She couldn't possibly turn such an offer down, daunting as it may be to accept such a responsibility.

All those months ago, she remembered, she had wanted to make an impact on this world. Even if her original motives felt far removed from who she currently was...she couldn't just give them up, after coming so far. As she left Alligans' side and made her way up the stairs, she expected a feeling of exultation to sweep over her for being one step closer to her goal, but what she mostly got was nerves, the crowd's applause kindling the tense anticipation in her gut. Not that she wasn't elated — because she was. It was a great honour, to have one's efforts recognised, for them to mean something — it was just...somehow or other, it felt a lot less important to her now. Squeezing her eyes shut for a quick second, Amane squashed down the confusing tangle of emotions, to deal with at a later date. Now was not the time to show trepidation or doubt.

She focused on the parts of her that were delighted, and with a beatific smile on her face she dropped to one knee, kissing Astor's ring with a grace that belied the maelstrom of her thoughts. The words to be said were simple, but at the last second the felis realised that she didn't want to swear fealty yet; she couldn't, not with the same devotion that medieval knights were known for, that most of the crowd expected her to hold. She couldn't do it truthfully, at any rate, when her heart didn't belong to this world. "My strength is yours to wield, Your Majesty," she said instead. "I will not let you down." And with those words she rose, bowed once more, and descended down the stairs, the palms she hid within the sleeves of her dress sweating profusely. Hopefully, that was an acceptable substitute.

Amane weaved her way through the crowds and headed towards the back, slipping in beside Alligans. "Thank you," she whispered at his congratulations, giving him a slight smile. Turning to watch the rest of the procession, she offered a short introduction to Alligans of each individual that was called forward, clapping especially loud for Alonso when he was named Marquis alongside her. They hadn't fought together for a long time, but she was glad to see that the man was doing well for himself. Surprisingly, a beast tamer that she was only vaguely familiar with turned down the title. It was understandable, though, that some people held little value for a title or land. When Alphabet ran onto the carpet, late though she was, she turned to give the noble an explanation of the girl's presence. "Her name is Alphabet Chocolate; I'm afraid some of us do sport odd names. Young though she may be, she is a capable warrior in her own right. Albeit a little immature, though that cannot be helped, with her age. She can be a bit crude, but she means well."

To her growing horror, however, Alpha went straight ahead to prove her completely and utterly wrong. Humiliating Astor — molested by a gorilla? Surely that was just an ill joke — was bad enough, but by the time she reached the man-eating pigs Amane was appalled. This wasn't the Alphabet that she had fought alongside the underground caves of Dormont, nor the spunky girl that she had witness fearlessly riding atop Arachna. This Alphabet looked the same, but her jokes had an undercurrent of cruelty that the felis couldn't reconcile with the girl she knew. Or thought she knew. Either something drastic had happened to change her so, or clearly she didn't know Alpha very well at all. She supposed two fights weren't enough to truly grasp a person's character.

She could only feel relieved when Alligans snapped his fingers, the noble casting the illusion magic across the whole room, muffling any and all sound. Alphabet's voice was immediately cut off, and they were spared the rest of her words. And just in time, too: she suspected that the little bit that they had heard was only the tip of the iceberg of social faux passes that the rogue had been about to make. "On behalf of Astorea, I—I am so sorry," she said when the spell finally dissipated, a mortified stain across her cheeks. "I do not know what came over her...she wasn't previously like this."

OOC: @Snide