(Event) The Ceremony | Page 2

Xsune would only nod her head in a showing of understanding, whether false or real. The green eyed girl made little comment at first. Another aspect of the event had caused her to lose interest in the Felis for a moment. Silence? In fact a shift of eyes to the Felis showed that no words were heard from her. Intriguing, it seemed Alphabet was ranting something and somehow another person would have none of it. Xsune appreciated it actually. Alphabet was such a poor choice for Vermillion. The seemingly helpless child began to move her hand over the sphere in her chair. Indeed there was a filter over the area her readings private readings showed... her eyes shifted around to find the one behind the filter. Then after setting upon the tall gentlemanly man in a golden mask. Her attention left and she returned to pretending to focus on the Felis. Trying to shift through the magic induced buzz using her own 'ahem' methods to learn just what kind of word barfs Alphabet was giving was not worth it.

Sound had returned and suddenly Kyupin's voice was heard. Just in time to learn her name it looked like. Followed by a request for her own.

"Xsune... that's my avatar's name. My real name is Tensai. Kyupin chan! How Kyute! A Felis must be fun to play as. It's unfortunate you have had such a poor time."

Tensai took another bite of a carrot from her plate. She talked as if she had heard everything Kyupin said and honestly it was not that difficult. The girl seemed to be a nice person who thought the game would be fun and now found it to be a bit too harsh much like reality in general. That was enough hints for this particular Vermillion XIII member.

"The world is harsh, the game only copies life itself you know. It's a life sim as much as a game. It is all just as impurfect."

She said as she closed her eyes for a moment and smiled to herself as if finding peace of mind in her own head.

"Everything can only last so long."

Xsune opened her eyes and reached (a bit far due to her short arms and being stuck sitting) to pat Kyupin's shoulder. Then she placed her hand upon the sphere again and leaned back, allowing her chair to move to another area of the chamber. Just another drop in the vast ocean of reason for her quest...

@Kyupin Felnya

 

Kyupin watched as the other rolled away, her questions buried deep inside her chest. If they were a player, why play somebody handicapped? Were they injured in real life and wanted that consistency? Or were they trying it for fun, was it a joke? A bubble of rage roared inside of her, screaming at the injustice, but she smothered it.

She whined, low in her throat, and turned around to leave. She was too emotionally strained for this ceremony. They'd be fine without her - it looked like it was just festivities from here on out. She'd go and... scope out that land she'd been promised. Or something.

[ EXIT ]​

 

Stelluna wasn't normally the type to go the these events, it normally ended with her in the edges of the room bored as others played politics. However, in the interest of staying up to date with current events, she went anyways. It's not everyday that a new nobles are crowned. The ones being chosen seemed to be odd though, people more suited to exploring and battle rather than bureaucracy. That would make for some interesting times indeed. She still couldn't shake off this odd feeling, that there was something more to this event than she had thought.

The little girl who talked about man eating boars seemed especially unsuitable for a title considering her... instability. Still, what did she know about ruling? The fact that some sort of silencing field had appeared in the middle of her speech was alarming as well, but probably for the better with how the story was going. She couldn't tell who cast it as quite a few of the audience members were taller than she was but decided it wasn't all that important overall. The rest of the ceremony was fairly standard, except for someone who turned down the title. Most of the recipients were vaguely familiar to her from the battle with Azog and the resulting relaxation at the Pelham Hotsprings, though she didn't catch most of their names. She payed half attention to their names as they were called out, nothing really catching her interest; however, when the king talked about some sort of game with Countess Felnya... that caught her attention. She wouldn't be surprised if there was some sort of system in place with these people, they all had this odd air to them.

She briefly considered asking someone if they had any idea what the 'game' was but decided against it. Asking questions, especially to anyone in the system, would either be unproductive or paint a target over her head so she chose to remain silent. Finding a relatively sparsely populated part of the room, she took in the proceedings and began to think. A bit contrary to what she expected, a lot of the new nobles seemed to be quite troubled. And then there was the woman who had flat out refused the title. Replaying the scene in her mind, her wording was a bit odd... Yes, there was definitely something more to these people. She implied that they didn't belong, that they were outsiders of some kind and Stelluna had an inkling of what it could be. So there she was, in the edges of the room, brooding over the new information while keeping half an eye out for anything else that might happen. Going to this event turned out much more intriguing and fruitful than she could have imagined.

 

For a while the people only watched. They gauged. Not only her, but all new Nobles. She had a feeling that Alphabet did not leave a good impression. Not only she looked young but also her decorum was lacking in a way that had made few people cringe.

Ilusa wondered if perhaps the girl was not very serious with the game, at least the game role as a Noble. So far people had only watched her; so she watched in return, nursing her drink. Seeing the people around, the felis noticed that her dress did stand out a little more from the majority than she was aiming for, the style was different and bit on the bolder side. There were women with even more bold styles, or long dressed that showed off their breasts, barely covering them. Fashion was a thing that she did not adhere to.

One of those who watched her approached her. Her ear flicked at the movement, tail perking up a little as the young man approached and called out. Being called out meant that her free time has finished and it would be time to be a Countess and socialise. Especially as even the first look had shown the man to be someone of a station.. Or at least dressed the part. The armour seemed to be of high quality, if lighter than full plate, with curious red garment covering it. There was also a sigil of sort, or perhaps a coat of arms. …Which reminded her that as Countess she had to think of a Coat of Arms for herself.

Thinking about that, Ilusa turned to face the man, a look of non-feigned curiosity on her features. After all, she did not know why he called out for her. Her ears perked up, shifting as if to catch better what he said, a show of being attentive to his words. “Oh?” So close she could get a second look at the man. A human, blonde with eyes in a curious shade of light bronze. His features were rather soft, but his body looked well trained. But what caught her attention was his self-introduction. A General of an unknown country, Kingdom of Tertoria… A Noble too, what with mentioning of being from a House; she could literally hear the Capital letter there. Additionally, she was pretty sure he was an NPC, which meant that her plea was listened to!

Not to mention what he asked for. ‘Well then, time to play politics for Astor.’ The healer decided to push away her dislike of the politics and pull on the experience she had in real life for her… Something like a friend, a Player she knew best. The other man, a probable NPC did not seem like a man who would make it a chore either.

Additionally, there was something about the foreign Noble, there being a certain hesitance while speaking to her that made her pay more attention, until when the brown eyes met hers and he trailed off.

‘..? Could it be?’ It was a surprise, but it looked almost as if the man was transfixed on her, as if charmed by her features. The avatar was based on her younger self and she had been quite the looker (now the scars marred her flesh), so it was not that unusual. What was bit unusual was that it was a General, and NPC, who looked at her like that. Well, that could help in starting a good relationship between Astorea and Tertoria.

Ilusa smiled, her eyes softening as she watched him. “Thank you, General Maximilian, for making the long journey to be here today. May the Kingdom of Tertoria flourish.” Well wishes were important. Her hands moved and Ilusa made a slight curtsy; in medieval settings, Generals were always Nobles. She was a Noble but not a General, so she did not merely bow to him but curtsied; of course nowhere near as deep as she did so earlier to Astor. The man was no King.

“A meeting with King Astor…?” Ilusa trailed off, glancing away from the man and towards where she had seen the man leave onto the balcony. She remembered that he just talked a lot and he was sick. A longer moment of reprieve was just a thing for him, was it not? “Perhaps after a while, His Majesty seems to wish for a moment of peace for now.” The felis said, seemingly regretful, then took another sip of the drink. When the glass was pulled from her lips, her tongue flicked out to lick the residue of the drink, making her lips glisten. It was of course done on purpose, to hold his attention on herself and not the King.

“In the meantime, could I ask you to tell me more of your Kingdom? I admit that I do not know much about it.” A misleading statement; before the man had introduced himself she did not even know such country existed. But she was now curious what country it was, what gods there existed, what goods it made, what it exported, what it imported, what type of ruling body governed it, was it open to ally itself with Astorea, where exactly was it, what was the climate there, what the lands were like? That and many more questions swirled in her mind as she looked at the man named Maximilian and thought how to learn this and many more things. Her tail swayed and ears were still angled toward him, to show her interest.

@Pandora

 

As Alpha stepped down, completely oblivious to the political mess and embarrassment she caused, she noticed a peculiar figure standing among the crowd. She squinted her eyes and looked around before she noticed, and recognized, what had caught her attention. Immediately, without any hesitation, she bounced from the steps and pushed her way through the crowd and, with a silly smile on her face, held Eldhi in a bear hug. Her cheek was smashed against Eldhi's own as she nuzzled the aloof knight. "Eldhi! Eldhi! Eldhi!" she laughed, each repetition of the girl's name gaining even more enthusiasm and excitement than the one before it. "I can't believe you're here! Oh! There's so much stuff we have to catch up on and guest what?! I found this entire place that is, like, full of prism shards that Vermy'd love! Gah! So much to tell!"

With that, Alpha detached herself from her friend like how a suction cup would be removed from glass (not the best analogy but it was an accurate one). She looked Eldhi up and down, putting a thoughtful finger to the corner of her bottom lip. "Hmhmhmhm," she hummed, imitating Vermilion's own unique pattern. Suddenly, without a single warning, her eyes flew open and she snapped her fingers, grinning from ear to ear. "We so need to get you some new clothes!" Alpha proclaimed and, as if illustrating her point, she tugged at her own shirt collar. "Let's Alpha-tize you! Haha! First we gotta get a bite to eat, though!"

She quickly grabbed Eldhi's hand and attempted to drag the girl away from the festivities and to the dining tables. Fancy cakes and layered tablecloths gave everything an elegant shine; all of which had lost its noble traits as Alpha put her dirty, grubby hands on everything she could touch. "Here!" Alpha laughed, taking the piece of toast out of her mouth to replace it with a slice of cake. She shoved another slice next to Eldhi's mouth. "Eaaatouneadenerhumffff," she said but, unfortunately, the food in her mouth had muted all of what she had to say.

@Eldhi

 

With his nerves calmed and the taste of alcohol on his tongue, he was ready to rejoin the celebration housed for him and the other's who donated. Today marked the first day he was an official noble, a Duke at that, a title he still couldn't fully graps his mind around, he had honestly thought he would have been granted the title of Baron or perhaps Count If he was lucky enough but Duke? It probably surprised anyone there, not just him. As Duke of the northern lands of Astorea now, his first duty was to further build connections and work with the other nobles of the land. As of right now the nobles he had in mind
consisted of the two other players who also given given a fair amount of land, one he had already met and fought alonside with, that was Alonso Thorlion, the other was a Felis named Amane Hirota, an unknown to him but the King saw potenial in her and for now, that was enough for him. If he could settle an alliance or a deal where the three could worth together to develop their land, it would mean bring prosperity to Astorea, perhaps starting Astorea's first golden age, surely the other two couldn't disagree with that?

He needed to find the other two he wanted to speak to, walking around the busy throne room, excusing himself to get passed the many people in the throne room who wanted to join in the festivities, eventually towards back of the throne room, near the main doors he saw a familiar fellow claded in golden armor with his mask. Amane was also with him, he wasn't surprised since he had been talking to him earlier as well with Alonso. He found Amane now where was Alonso he wondered? He thought such a huge man like Alonso wouldn't be difficult but shown what he knew, he couldn't spot him anywhere. Approaching an attendent who bowed in his presence, he whispered into her ear to look for Marquess Alonso and give him the message that he seeked to speak with him and Amane at the same time. With a slap on the shoulder, the attendent took off disappearing into the crowds that took form in the throne room, heped Alonso would get his message and seek them out. Finding his way through the crowd, he eventually found himself to Amane and Earl Alligans of Gild who spook of the distaster that had happened only a few minutes ago. Her idiotic show irritated him but he knew now wa not the time to show such feelings towards a person.
Approaching the two, he lowered his back forwards, bowing to show respect to Amane and Earl, they may of be of lower rank than him but they were still nobles and Alligan was still his senior due in large part he actually controlled a city, his land was simply land, undeveloped and in the middle of nowhere. He first looked at Earl Alligans first than to Amane, choosing to save her for last.

"Well Met Earl Alligans of Gild, I hope you enjoyed the ceremony until....the end of it. I do apolgize in advance in the name of the King and Astorea for that, I don't think anyone could have predicted that, even I was a tad surprised by such a outburst."

Turning to Amane, he bowed slightly again to show respect before speaking yet again politely.

"Lady Amane, it is a pleasure to finally meet you, It is nice to meet a fellow survivor from the titanic battle with Azog....not many survived that battle unfortunately. Along with Alonso, I was hoping I could speak with the both of you at the same, I have a proposition to the both of you if you will give me the honour of listening to my request, I have no ill intentions despite being a Fiend knight.
Looking over both his shoulders, looking for Alonso or the attendent that he sent off just a moment ago. If Alonso eventually found himself to Seto, Amane and Alligans, he would greet Alonso as he did pior and If the two gave him permission, he would speak up to gain their attention, he hoped they would agree with him.

"Thank you two for honoring my resquest, I wanted to ask something great of you two, we three have been given a great amount of land to do what we please, I do not know what your intentions are but If their noble and just, I would ask for the sake of Astorea and all her people as well as the players who serve these lands that we three should work together to build these lands for Astorea's sake and make it proper and safe, allowing the rebuilt Astorea to enter it's first golden age. I would like to know you personally if possible as friends perhaps and as important business partners that work together instead of fighting like childish nobles who care only for themselves. When the time comes, I shall lead Astorea armies alongside King Astor and fight where the fighting is thickest, where ever the darkness, the curruption grows and destroy it or bend it to my will to use it against Astorea's enemies, I will not allow the first nation created by players be destroyed by humanity's own weaknesses. you do not have to give me an answer now If you wish If you even considered it. I thank the both of you for listening to me. When this ceremony ends, I shall be departing for the north after preparation and plans have been made, the nother must prosper for Astorea to propser."

@Amane Hirota @Alonso Thorlion @Snide
​

 

Just as sudden as the conversation with the Earl of Gild occurred, so did the ceremony itself. The main reason for the bulky man's appearance if anything. Observing the scene, and the crowd dressed for the occasion aside from a few odds and ends, the Felis swiveled his gaze back to the red carpet. Yet, the man stood behind and allowed the others to move into the chamber first. He held no title, nor did he want to draw more attention to himself than he already gained. Not to describe his meeting with Lord Alligans as terrible, but ominous guests alongside opinionated whispers regarding the combat Berserker did not bode too well for Alonso's mood.

Though Cessia's speech about tradition brought about a sense of calm to the overall environment. For now, everyone was going to shut up and listen, with the bold among the crowd whispering to each other. Senses gifted to beasts allowed the bearish man to distinguish those who still held opinions. He needed to ignore them. Bringing himself down to the petty level of these other nobles was not going to allow progress within the Kingdom of Astorea. This was not high school, nor should it be, with all the petty squabbles and over inflated egos. If they had a problem later, Alonso knew there were other ways to make people shove it that did not involve threats or violence.

First up, and the one who was going to set the stage for this land's reputation, was Seto and his designation as Duke. A well armored man with an air of knowledge about him, the standards of a respected knight who earned his way to a high end position. The Felis man had such evidence before, being the other player to interact with Lord Alligans at the time. A short speech was given, as expected, and the Fiend Knight ended his part of the ceremony without personal fanfare. Duke Seto Kurama was a man the Felis can trust, for the moment at least.

Soon after was the calling of Amane. His experiences with this younger Felis proved the woman a team player, but not just that, since Alonso has spent a bit more time with her on missions compared to the now titled Duke of Astorea. Funny how there were a lot of names that started with the letter 'A' in the past several weeks among players. Regardless of trivial observations, a closed mouth grin etched itself upon the man's face, finding himself giving the Marchioness a more powerful clap. Might have been a matter of not controlling his own strength, but he felt it a significant matter to watch over her. Part of him questioned whether she reminded the middle aged of his own daughters in real life, growing up to be proper members of society with accomplishments built with sweat and tears.

His eyes kept themselves on Marchioness Hirota, noting her position near the Earl of Gild. Damnit, he was getting overprotective again. Feline eyes glanced towards the floor, a sigh heaving his shoulders up and down, gaze wandering the chamber. Bad enough he had the courtesy to stand towards the back so everyone else can see, and with the advantage of position he was able to notice the entire damn room. At this point, he felt as though the castle was no place for him, nor the entirety of this country. He kept garnering the wrong attention, and provided little other than being an angry cat man hell bent on ripping the limbs from each and every opponent who stood in his way. Was there no point in his trying?

"Hmm," Alonso inquired, the curious rumble in his throat noting his newfound attention to being his name called.

It was here that he remembered once again why his presence was needed here. Keeping his sense of composure, the stares given by each person in the room were not of awe and fear. The players he dealt with wanted to be near him. It was Alonso's fault he never went out of his way to converse with those he met on previous expeditions and quests. His eyes focused on the walkway leading up to the throne, where King Astor awaited his arrival. No more hesitation. Eying where Amane stood, the woman seemed to clap with a higher vigor than the others in the room. Right. Standing here will do me no good, he thought.

The path leading towards the throne was no longer a wretched thing to consider. Chest puffed out, attention keeping a straight line towards his destination, his long, composed stride lead him onward. The Felis now held a presence in this world, and while he needed to continue the effort to improve himself, he was being rewarded for the progress and companionship he offered. Upon reaching Astor, he took a knee in courtesy towards his king, arm resting on his propped up thigh, eyes shut for the moment, head lowered in his most humble mannerism.

"I know my efforts may have provided little by comparison to others, but irregardless I am honored to have this title bestowed upon me, my King. My progress in improving myself I will swear upon my life will be meant towards protecting this kingdom and its inhabitants. This creed I place upon myself will hold as long as Astorea and its people will have me, and in turn will do in my best efforts to lead all to prosperity."

As instructed, the man kissed the ring, standing to his full height and giving a bow to the king. Lifting a foot he made his way towards the back where he once stood, continuing his responsibility of being the massive guardian overlooking those he desired to protect.

Marquess Thorlion. A name the masses will be acknowledging him by, with the exception of close friends and acquaintances. In the end, it may not be so bad.

For a few moments the man zoned out, placing himself in his inner thought process. He kept a recollection of events far too often, yet, the more he imagined the occurrences leading up to his moment, the more he felt at ease. Everyone pulled together for this effort, and even what he provided was significant enough to make an impact. Reservations were kept, and he respected that about others, as was natural being in a situation where the future remained uncertain. The death of Alonso's wife in the real world was proof of that. Conflict was natural, and restrained provided an insight that spanned many different points of view.

Ears perked up and eyes widened as a servant garnered the Marquess's attention. Duke Kurama wanted a meeting with the massive cat man. Alonso had no excuse to refuse.

Once at the place of meeting, the Felis listened into the Duke's requests. The bearish man should have expected this. With hands clasped behind his back, gaze focused on the Marchioness and Duke, he gave a simple nod, "Please excuse me if this comes off as rude or ill advised, but what you have told me is redundant for my intentions regarding the land I have been given. By no means was I planning on using my resources for something nefarious and undermining. In fact, I was considering a meeting between us eventually regarding the country's state of affairs." Glancing between both @Amane Hirota and @Seto Kurama, Alonso gave out a long breath to concentrate his words, "If anything, however, it may be best we hold the meeting in either your region, Duke Kurama, or somewhere within Dormont's grounds. The simple matter of Marchioness Hirota's and my lands being on opposite ends is a bit of an inconvenience. While that can be dealt with at a later time, a central meeting spot should provide us with a way to run towards our lands if an emergency arises."

 

The white-haired knight sighed as Alpha finally left the throne and the proceedings continued without too many issues. Rubbing the back of her head in frustration, Eldhi was prepared to ditch the ceremony and warn Vermillion on what the blabbermouth of a Kunoichi had done. Of course, things wouldn't ever be that simple, would it? Evident by the imminent charging ball of hyperactivity, straight at the knight. "..." Eldhi made no move to step aside, wouldn't work with her kind of agility anyway so why bother? An instant later, she found a small brunette bear giving her a full hug.

"Nnngh..." Eldhi groaned a little as Alpha rubbed their cheeks together, the contrast of their expressions combined with the sight of smushed cheeks were quite... amusing to say the least, much to the chagrin of the former. "Gu..." Her red eyes widened in another bout of frustrated annoyance as Alpha went all-in on her efforts to undermine everything Vermillion had carefully planned. "Silence...!" She harshly whispered, pulling back her head so their cheeks would separate before she used an armored finger to tap Alpha's lips shut.

Eldhi maintained her not-so-subtle death glare even as the smaller girl detached herself, with some kind of effort since somehow, she was sticking to her like glue. "Alpha..." The knight hissed, keeping her voice raised but low enough so only her 'friend' would hear her. "Do you even realize what have you done?!" If she had fangs right now, Eldhi would be baring them, "There is a specific reason on why she sent me to look after you... and as you can see, I have failed her." The girl sighed harshly, "You are to keep silent about anything related to Mistress, that is an order, understood?" Another exasperated huff, Eldhi took a few moments to calm down, "Still... tell me more about those prism shards."

"...?" A quirked eyebrow was the Vermillion Knight's response to the Ninja Girl's poor imitation of Mistress' giggle and then out of all the sudden, something about... clothes? "What's wrong with the way I dress?" Eldhi gave a brief examination of her own form, "You do realize our expertise lie in different roles, do you?" She couldn't be possibly wearing light armor and clothes like her, vice versa, if Alpha wore heavy armor, she'd just foolishly weigh herself down, not to mention she'd look incredibly silly in that petite stature of hers... so what was she getting at? She didn't get her at all.

Better not to think about it too much since as expected, Alpha already moved the topic as not even five minutes later it was all about food. "Unless we want to acquire those shards, we have no other business her-... hey!" Then, with a surprising amount of strength, the small girl dragged the knight about.

Eldhi groaned as Alpha plopped them on the feasting room, all manner of food and beverages lay before her. Too bad Eldhi wasn't in the mood for dining right now. "Alpha..." Another facepalm and rub, "Listen to m-... mmmgh?!" A literal shove of food into her face, just as her mouth was opened.

"Mmmgh...!" Eye twitch, face blushing in anger, cheeks pouting from the food, chew, chew, swallow! "Guh... listen to me!" The knight lost all composure, "You need to get your act straight!" Now what would be the best 'argument' for this hyper child, "...or I am reporting you to Mistress." Eldhi crossed her arms, a victorious grin on her tanned features, "I mean it."

@Alphabet Chocolate

 

An understanding shake of the head was offered to @Amane Hirota as Alligans placed a hand upon her shoulder, trying to still her fretting as she apologized for the actions of the child she called Alphabet Chocolate.

Alligans

There is a reason children are not called to court Dame Hirota. Though the follies of childhood seem far removed from this particular babe, who... let us simply say that I have done your court a service in masking the remainder of what she spoke of. Your King was privy to it, and I, and none else... I have no want of causing scandal so I shall not speak of it. Judgement will be your new liege lord's to decide.

Rest assured, the actions of one do not reflect the honor of all, and so there is no cause to concern over the reputation of your court. At least, not in my own eyes. Back home, there is no shortage of upsetting individuals within the realm of politics... and so I am forgiving and understanding of such... complicated persons.

A glance to the side revealed the arrival of @Seto Kurama who bowed politely to Alligans and Amane. Alligans responded by removing his hand from the lady's shoulder, hoping it had done something to calm her worries. He responded to Seto's greeting by bowing even deeper and lower than Seto had, for the man was a Duke and deserving of the proper respects in his own land's court. After standing up straight once more, he addressed the new arrival.

Duke Kurama, there is of course no need to apologize. As I was explaining to Dame Hirota, children always bring unexpected scandal to court. It was noble of your King to attempt to include her, but as many have made it clear, in the study of politics he is perhaps a neophyte? Wisdom will come with time, and Edison took years to see the light, as the saying goes. So each mistake, a lesson.

Now, I do believe I see the good Lord Thorlion joining us...

He greeted @Alonso Thorlion with a respectable bow of one a station below in society, but it was not so humble that he demeaned himself and appeared submissive to the large felis man. Alligans stood straight and listened intently as those about him broke out in discussion, their affairs becoming an open buffet from which to gorge oneself.

It seemed that though Seto's duchy had been given to him along the Norforva border in the south, business he had was drawing him northwards towards the Esuilus or Zalra borders. He spoke openly of preparing armies and crushing enemies, of uniting himself and Amane and Alonso together to strengthen and build Astorea up. Of strengthening the north of Astorea in order for the whole of the country to succeed. Alonso responded with something bordering on criticism or sarcasm as he explained that it was the goal of all to build Astorea up and that Seto's speech had held an air of redundancy. Alligans remained silent and to the side of Amane, not interfering in the Astorean politics as the new leadership spoke with one another... until Alonso made mention of the spacing issue.

It was true, the lands they were granted were well away from one another, and Dormont lay near the border of Brisshal in the south-east of Astorea, so it was not a centralized location. Compounding this issue however, the fact remained that Astorea was at once known as the Adecus Forest, and never held much in the way of settlements. It had no roads, no pathways to make travel easier... and it would take years to cut through the forests, dig up the stumps, fill up the holes, and pack the earth in order to make proper roads over the miles and miles and miles of dangerous land, in which beast and bandit roamed freely. Additionally, the Adecus Forest had been famous for its networks of caves, in which dangers could lurk to waylay and attack any caravans of goods... or mounted nobles making their way to a meeting.

Forgive my intruding upon your affairs but perhaps I could offer a solution... Castle Dormont is by no means centralized, being near to the border of Falderen's Brisshal region. It could still serve as the central hub of this kingdom though, should you wish it. The dangers of this nation are similar to the dangers of my own, which is why we do not use roads to move from town to town... roads that, even if you wished to make them, would take you years of hard work and expensive cost to build and then maintain, and you have as of yet not created any tax laws or formed a gross domestic product by dealing in imports and exports.

The realm of commerce is where I gained my power and influence back home, and I did it by making use of some rather... powerful relics... that I had stumbled upon in a search for treasure, in my adventurous youth some twenty years ago. They are called Stepping Stones, and are perhaps the solution to your immediate concerns.

Now, before you get your hopes up, allow me to first detail their limitations. First and foremost, once activated, they cannot be moved or altered... so you cannot relocate them to use for other means. They are large, so many can walk abreast or caravans can pass through... but they have a limitation on mass. A time in which they must regenerate, if you will. The more you send through, the longer they remain offline. So a hundred individuals could come and go through them in a day, with a few heartbeats of waiting between each usage as it powered up again from a single person going through. But a larger group like an entire trade caravan would take a whole day to send through, with hours to recharge after each wagon of goods. The people. The horses. All that mass takes power, which takes time to recharge in the gate.

Because of this, it cannot be used to march an army through to invade your enemies, should you plan to use them as hidden weapons. And once a Stepping Stone is placed, it cannot be relocated, so they are better used as means of moving from one location to another, such as for trade.

They come in pairs... so, one placed in Dormont could reach one placed in the palace of Duke Kurama. One placed in Dormont could reach the palace of Dame Hirota. And so forth... A handful of instantaneous transportation gateways, with Castle Dormont as its nexus center. With them, each of you could arrive here in a matter of minutes rather than days of travel. Conduct your meetings, and return home in good stead, avoiding the hazards of the wilds. Your crafters could come here to get supplies from Dormont's marketplace in the town beyond the castle walls, which is close to the border of Brisshal and so naturally makes Dormont the hub of all trade in Astorea for the time being.

Sadly, I only have four available sets that I have not already put to use... And so, if your King agreed to acquiring them from me, it would be his decision how to make use of the final Stepping Stone pair. Perhaps a means of instantly traveling to an allied nation, inside an embassy you create there? Or a gate into a colony, should you create an Astorean colony in some Terra Nullis somewhere. I realize this would be something to discuss with your king, before reaching any conclusions... but I thought I might offer it as a solution to your immediate problems. The price, as I'm sure you're all deeply curious... is nothing. By which I mean, in conducting trade with Astorea, I would like for my merchants to pay nothing by way of tax and tariff. It will cost you nothing immediately, but I gain fortunes as your nation prospers, and that is of great interest to me.

My, but that was quite the speech I gave, do forgive me! I am removed now, to fetch us all some wine. Please, discuss this amongst yourselves while I offer you a moment of privacy and collect something to wet our throats.

Nodding to the collective nobility about him, the tall gold-clad man stepped away in search of some wine... despite the close proximity of servants from which he could have taken it, in an obvious attempt to give the Astorean's the privacy needed to discuss their own politics.

 

After (@Pandora) diplomatic chat with @Ilusa Nakhalee that night, Astor sent a servant to search for her so he could have an aside with the now Countess of Astorea. The ill-King did not wish to see anyone else for the moment, as the length ceremony has drained every ounce of energy from his quivering body. It seemed with all of the politics and kingdom building of late, Astor has dropped in weight and as such became more susceptible to common illnesses.

He couldn't believe how realistic the game was, for him to be able to lose weight and get sick in such a way, reminiscent of an overworked pencil pusher in the real world. Thankfully, the balcony was the last place anyone would look for him, given that he had closed both the thick curtains and the massive glass doors behind him as he sought refuge under the cold night sky. With the large coat that clung to his back and trapped the heat within, Astor braved the cold breeze as he waited for his feline companion.

When the servant girl spotted the easily-distinguishable Felis from the crowd, she quickly came over to the white-haired woman and bowed to her before closing the distance between them and whispering Astor's invitation.

Should Ilusa come onto the balcony, Astor could be seen propping himself up with his elbows as he leaned his curved back against the stony railing.

"So how does it feel to be a Countess of Astorea? A lot of people would kill to have your title and your hand in marriage at this point, so many high-ranking bachelors were looking at you like wolves," Astor spoke with an unstable voice, which succumbed to a cough. "Haah..." he sighed as he titled his head back, "what the hell am I even saying. I should be in there and banqueting with the rest of these vultures to strengthen and expand Astorea's political ties, but I don't want to. Come here," Astor said, jumping from one topic to the next as the heat traveled to his head, he came across as unintelligible to most people in his current state. If Cessia ever caught a wind of Astor like this, he feared of what she might do to him, but that's only is if she had the time to step away from international relation that was heating up in the room.

 

She'd been late to the ceremony, having been dealing with some drunks and unhealthy folk outside. It was a relief when no one seemed bothered by her late entrance, and in fact, she was able to hear her name called. Following the suit of others, she wandered towards the king, curtsied and knelt before him.

"My liege, while I am thankful to you for this opportunity, I know not the requirements of a Viscountess. I merely wanted to help the people...And so while I thank you for the land you've offered, where I will surely build a clinic for the people..."

Her head remained cast downward, eyes glinting up to his majesty only slightly as she put a hand on the hilt of her trusted sword. "I am not certain I am worthy of such praise, or capable of fulfilling the honor you give me. I must ask, what does a Viscountess do? What can I do for this great land? That is all I wish to do here, both from the start and until the end. I merely wish to protect and to serve the people...So that they may lead safe, happy lives."

 

It would be a mystery as to how Alpha would react under the threat of her mischievous actions being reported to Vermilion. It still is, considering that Alpha had paid Eldhi as much attention as she would a particularly uninspiring piece of regal artwork that was rife within the walls of Castle Dormont. A proper way to put it would be that Alpha had paid just enough attention to recognize Eldhi and appreciate her presence but had little investment in listening to the knight's words or pay much mind to her demeanor or attire.

With a flourish, she quickly scooped up a tub of ice cream and, digging into it with her hand, munched into a particularly large dollop of the sweet concoction. "You should try this, Eldhi!" she mumbled between bites, enjoying the succulent cream whilst completely ignoring Eldhi's frustrations. After licking her fingers clean, she gave a contented sigh and a goofy smile. "You gotta enjoy the good things in life, Eldhi! You know? Like ice cream and potato chips and the blood of your enemies? Delicious!"

She slung her arm around Eldhi's shoulder and pulled the girl into another bear-hug, effectively attempting to suck the life out of the knight through pure suffocation and love. "You gotta cheer up sometimes! Enjoy the party!" Alpha laughed as she strengthened her hold, her oblivious smile contrasting to her aggressive, possibly fatal embrace. And then, with a wink, she pointed at the empty throne of Astor Balthas. "Plus, the king's kinda cute, right? I can totes set you up with him after the party thing. Like, I'll just go and tame some bears or something to attack and then you'd be his knight-in-shining-armor! You'd rescue the prince, err king, of Astorea! And then you guys'll marry and stuff like what happened in all Shrek 12 and all those other Disney-Pixar movies!"

Alpha felt incredibly proud. She was, undoubtedly, the best and most effective wingwoman and best-friend known to humanity and beyond. She gave herself a pat on the back. Awesome job, Alpha! You're the greatest friend and matchmaker in the entire world!

@Eldhi

 

Ilusa suddenly had a feeling that the man was.. Not used to politicking. He seemed too, easy. Too easily flustered, too easily captured. If she were a nice person, she would have felt sorry for him and told him that; but she was not a nice person. And so she took advantage and milked the situation for all it was worth without appearing to do so.

A nudge here, a nudge there and he shared more about the Kingdom he was from. Each word being recorded not only in her memory, but also quite literally recorded because of the neat function in the game (of course some places did not allow it without consent of the other party (if they were a Player), something about privacy). To make sure she remembered everything correctly.

“Demons… I am glad you have arrived safely then.” Her tone was a little worried; Demons were a big issue, especially when some Players were upsetting the conventions by choosing magical disciplines with ill repute.

“Ah, that is welcome to hear.” A Lady of this House, the one who ruled it and wished to have good relations with them? That was important and interesting. Ilusa also suddenly realised that later on she herself will be approached by other Nobles, sooner or later, to gauge what she is open to. And possibly to gain an audience with the King; just a countess she might be, but Astor did show his favour of her; the politically savvy NPC’s surely did not miss it (Players were a different bag of cats, to them this was a game not their life after all).

“Oh?” Her ear flickered as he took out an envelope, there was the same coat or arms on the wax seal as on his armour; the symbol of the Flanst house. Ilusa nodded and took it, making sure to brush her fingers over his by ‘accident’. “I will make sure the King will receive it.” It would be no problem to give it to him and though she was curious, she knew about confidentiality and would not break it, not when her life was not in danger (and in this game it never truly was, death here was temporary after all).

And yet before she could pull out something more, a man came in (a knight, armoured in similar style yet much heavier, a full-plate red armour that hid every individual part of him, making him just one face among many) and the General had to leave.

A ‘Council of Eight’ (because she could hear the capital letters there) was something that probably needed the highest-ranking nobles of that country. But it also meant that her goldmine of information was slipping from her fingers. Even though the man seemed less than happy about it, the firm line in his shoulder told her that he would go. One of the waiters came over and she put away her drink.

“No, I understand.” She smiled with understanding, her tail swishing (noticing that his gaze was pulled by it). As a businesswoman, as a soldier, how often she had to do what duty called for even if she did not want to. Still holding the letter she gave him a very shallow curtsy; polite but not servile. “I am Countess Ilusa of the Astorea Kingdom. I bid you goodbye General Maximilian and wish you safe travels. May our Kingdoms have an amicable relationship in the future.”

The felis watched until the man was gone and then she glanced at the important looking letter. Just to make sure it would not be gone, she put it in the inventory.

Just as someone was about o approach her (a man, noble, young) a servant bearing the colours of Astorea was first. After bowing the woman whispered the invitation. Ilusa nodded in response. “Yes, of course. I will go right away.” And with this as perfect excuse, she moved away from the approaching noble, partly following the servant.

There were actual guards before the balcony no, standing guard, though they let her through, their lances pulling away to give her unrestricted path. This, was shaping to be more like the real life.

Ilusa walked over to @Astor Balthas, who looked almost slumped over the balcony railing. His words made her chuckle a bit. “And how does it feel to be the King of Astorea, Your Majesty? Even more people would kill to be in your position. …While some were eyeing me, many more were eyeing others, like Amane.” In fact, after he showed her favour, she was pretty sure that majority of the men who wanted to marry into power would be using their focus on Amane and others (like the small adorable felis, though that one had Gwyn to protect her) but her, out of worry of his reaction.

Truth to be told, she was rather thankful for it, the wound was still too fresh.

“…” Then she paused a little something in his words striking a chord with him. With a sigh she suddenly understood; it was not that he could not find a potion that could heal him, but that he had not been looking to get it as well as he could because this gave him the perfect excuse to not be out there and play politics.

Ilusa mimicked his posture, her shoulder touching his. “Well, there will be other occasions for it. Even if many envoys from other Kingdoms and countries came by, this is not the last time they will.” She murmured, glancing at him. “I got a letter just for your eyes from someone in the Tertoria Kingdom. Your Duke was politicking too. As was Amane from what I saw. …Just, let’s, not put Alphabet anywhere near any diplomatic relations please.”

That said she moved her hand to touch his forehead hissing a little at the heat that almost hurt her fingers. While with her spells she could not heal him, she could lessen the symptoms. “Don’t move, I’ll try to alleviate some of the symptoms. I might not heal you, but I’m sure you will feel a bit better.” And so she started casting. Light appearing between her hands and with each word the light changed, shifting and twisting before settling on Astor.

They were quick spells. Three words each. With low energy costs. A spell that reduced pain (an hour lasting buff that could be prematurely ended if he got into a fight), a cooling spell (that she made after the Azog fight, a coolant that works on burns and surprisingly fevers) and a warming spell that targeted the muscles, made in order to relax them.

“Better?” Worry coloured her voice as she looked him over, gaunter than before. Yes, she suspected he did not heal himself in order to avoid the politics, but she still did worry.