The Isran Empire
Dedicated
Roleplay posts: 468
Allegiances: The Isran Empire
Registered: Apr 3, 2016 10:52:37 GMT -8
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Post by The Isran Empire on Jun 8, 2016 16:35:28 GMT -8
Shortly after receiving a signal from within the office following Araldur's departure, one of the door guards attracts Adrian von Heschburg's attention. "Sir? The Lady will see you now. Proceed in at your leisure." The double doors are held open for him to enter.
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Adrian von Heschburg
Dedicated
Roleplay posts: 209
Age: 34
Physical Description: A well-built man, standing at 6'0 and weighing 175 lbs. Adrian was a Vessian knight, and his upbringing molded him into a man befitting of his status. Constant activity in service to the Brotherhood has only enhanced his physique.
He has short, dark brown hair, dark blue eyes, and an overall handsome appearance. One might see a hint of innocence buried beneath regret and heartbreak.
Clothes and Equipment: Adrian wears either mail or plate armor, along with a white surcoat depicting a black cross. He also wears a cloak that covers his body when necessary. At times he may choose to wear a helmet.
His choice weapon is usually a longsword, used in conjunction with a heater shield. On horseback he adds a lance to his arsenal. Adrian may carry a Vessian hand crossbow and bolts if he feels it is appropriate.
Like most Brothers, his horse is always white.
Registered: Sept 20, 2015 4:33:51 GMT -8
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Post by Adrian von Heschburg on Jun 12, 2016 5:18:50 GMT -8
Adrian nodded at the guard, stood up, cleared his throat, and walked into room to speak with Empress Naoki. When Adrian entered he did not take a seat until Naoki offered him one, trying his best to act professional and courtly. Honestly, he was tired and weary from recent events, and it probably showed. "Madame Naoki," he said calmly, bowing before her. "I am Adrian von Heschburg, A Knight-... err... former Knight-Brother. I have come to explain recent events involving myself and the Brotherhood, and I have a request as well. My former master, Hochmeister Konrad, has taken Lady Audrey as his wife; he has settled down on his estate in Audria and rules as the Grand Duke alongside Duchess Audrey. The Wickans have been defeated, and their allies disbanded. The Brothers of the Sword had no more reason to exist, and so the Conclave decided to disband them. Most of my Brothers remained in Audria, a number of them went back to their homes in Vessia, and those who still wished to fight were sent to join the Church of Lucernedeia." "As for myself... I suppose I'm a sellsword now... or... a freesword. I just want to help people; it's what I was born to do. And that's why I've come here. I want to join Isra and help protect the Free Plains from anyone who would bring harm to its people." Adrian stood up and bent down on one knee, his head tilted down. "If you would have me, Madame Naoki, I would offer my services to you, and to the people of Isra." Adrian awaited a response from Naoki. He could have joined the Church, he could have kept the Brothers going... but Adrian had lost his faith. He did not believe in Gods, he did not believe in a Heaven. If anything, he believed in the Devil and his Demons; he had seen much hate and death in this world that he no longer believed in anything. All he could do was protect the people in this world and try to make it as close to Heaven as he could.
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Empress Naoki
Famous
Roleplay posts: 2,238
Physical Description: =========================
Empress Naoki is a curvaceous woman of average height, indeterminate age, and catlike features. Her hair is a dark auburn, often pulled back into a long braid. Her ears are both soft and fluffy, and her tail is never less than perfectly groomed. Amber eyes glisten in the shadows cast by her hair.
Clothes and Equipment: =========================
Naoki's wardrobe is to her as a frame is to a painting. Sometimes embellished with detail to be attractive in its own right, but never the focus. Usually simple but elegant, tightly fitting and highly revealing, used only to frame the beauty within.
Additionally, Naoki is, when clothed, often adorned with a small collection of accessories. She wears an earring, a brilliant cut amethyst, in her right ear. The silver signet ring of Isra is worn on her left pinky, marking her as High Lady of Isra. Directly adjacent, she wears the golden signet ring of The Isran Empire as its Empress. On the inside of her left thigh, there is a tattoo depicting a rose entwined with tentacles.
Allegiances: The Isran Empire
Player's online availability : Excessively often. Timezone: ET (-5)
Registered: Sept 12, 2015 13:02:17 GMT -8
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Post by Empress Naoki on Jun 13, 2016 2:37:24 GMT -8
As Adrian enters, Naoki stands, offers her hand for shaking, and offers him a seat. Allowing him to get directly to the point, she listens attentively as she speaks his bit, ears pointed forward. What he says regarding the Duchy of Audria, the fate of The Brotherhood, and this “ Church of Lucernedeia”is all mostly news to her. Information doesn’t flow as freely as all that in those parts of the world, so this is the first she’s hearing of it. She nods in acknowledgement. The Brotherhood could have met with a far worse fate, after all. As he continues, her eyebrows raise in surprise. Like Crovan’s hand-kissing, this is the first occasion on which an individual has kneeled before her. (Outside of the bedroom, that is.) The second thing that comes to mind is the uncleanliness of the floor. That bit of the floor, those tiles right before her desk, haven’t been cleaned in a few days. And goodness knows how many boots have been there, and where they’ve been. That’s not to say that the floor is… unclean, but… If this becomes a trend, she’ll have to get a small cushion or something, Naoki resolves. Regardless, she addresses the matter at hand, putting on her most dignified tone of voice to address Adrian von Heschburg , “I would be honored to accept your service, Sir Adrian. Reseat yourself.” After waiting a moment for him to rise and retake his seat, Naoki continues, “There are too many in this world that seek to bring harm to others, and too many that rely on others entirely for their protection from the first group. I will gladly accept your assistance, of a man I’ve heard to be well-versed in the ways of war, in protecting the people of Isra from those would see it fit to do them harm. I would presume that you would prefer to make use of your talents on the battlefield. Do you have any more specific preferences or unprofessed areas of expertise that you’d like to articulate now, or would you rather I simply place you where you are most needed within Isra’s army?” As something of an afterthought, she adds, “Though, if you’d prefer a decidedly less exciting line of work, perhaps some manner of public office or other civil appointment, that’s perfectly acceptable as far as I’m concerned. Only you know how best you can make use of yourself.”
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Adrian von Heschburg
Dedicated
Roleplay posts: 209
Age: 34
Physical Description: A well-built man, standing at 6'0 and weighing 175 lbs. Adrian was a Vessian knight, and his upbringing molded him into a man befitting of his status. Constant activity in service to the Brotherhood has only enhanced his physique.
He has short, dark brown hair, dark blue eyes, and an overall handsome appearance. One might see a hint of innocence buried beneath regret and heartbreak.
Clothes and Equipment: Adrian wears either mail or plate armor, along with a white surcoat depicting a black cross. He also wears a cloak that covers his body when necessary. At times he may choose to wear a helmet.
His choice weapon is usually a longsword, used in conjunction with a heater shield. On horseback he adds a lance to his arsenal. Adrian may carry a Vessian hand crossbow and bolts if he feels it is appropriate.
Like most Brothers, his horse is always white.
Registered: Sept 20, 2015 4:33:51 GMT -8
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Post by Adrian von Heschburg on Jun 15, 2016 13:01:26 GMT -8
Adrian sighed a breath of relief at Naoki's acceptance. "Oh, thank you, my lady," he said, standing back up and taking a seat. The dirty floor had not bothered him. He had spent the past few years crouched in muddy trenches, on the back of smelly horses, and in swamps up to his knees; a dirty floor was nothing new - and if anything, probably a relief.
Adrian listened and considered everything Naoki said. "Honestly ma'am, I was thinking of an active role... one where I can directly serve the people. Reading and writing behind desks is all well and good, I'm sure, but it's not for me. I prefer a shield in my hand, and a brother at my side. If it's alright with you, I'd like to assemble some men of here in Isra, who are willing to patrol the Free Plains and protect it from harm. Should you ever need my council, you can always call on me. Should you need something done, my brothers and I will heed your call. And should Isra need protection, you'll find me in the midst of the chaos protecting the people."
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Empress Naoki
Famous
Roleplay posts: 2,238
Physical Description: =========================
Empress Naoki is a curvaceous woman of average height, indeterminate age, and catlike features. Her hair is a dark auburn, often pulled back into a long braid. Her ears are both soft and fluffy, and her tail is never less than perfectly groomed. Amber eyes glisten in the shadows cast by her hair.
Clothes and Equipment: =========================
Naoki's wardrobe is to her as a frame is to a painting. Sometimes embellished with detail to be attractive in its own right, but never the focus. Usually simple but elegant, tightly fitting and highly revealing, used only to frame the beauty within.
Additionally, Naoki is, when clothed, often adorned with a small collection of accessories. She wears an earring, a brilliant cut amethyst, in her right ear. The silver signet ring of Isra is worn on her left pinky, marking her as High Lady of Isra. Directly adjacent, she wears the golden signet ring of The Isran Empire as its Empress. On the inside of her left thigh, there is a tattoo depicting a rose entwined with tentacles.
Allegiances: The Isran Empire
Player's online availability : Excessively often. Timezone: ET (-5)
Registered: Sept 12, 2015 13:02:17 GMT -8
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Post by Empress Naoki on Jun 16, 2016 14:23:58 GMT -8
Reseating herself, Madame Naoki extract a blank piece of parchment and quill from within the bowels of her desk. Carefully dipping the quill into one of her inkwells, she begins to pen a document as she speaks.
“Well, in that case, allow me to seat you in a position of command. At present, Isra has legions upon legions of fighting men, but insufficient command personnel to direct them effectively. You,” she dictates, levying the end of her quill in his direction, “...will help to remedy this issue.”
After spending a few moments wherein the only sound is the furious dancing of her quill, Naoki continues, “I’m placing you in command of one of Isra’s legions. The Sixth Legion, specifically. There are skilled fighting men and women, most of them veterans of multiple battles. They have fought together before… on one occasion, and have a mostly established command hierarchy already. However, their previous commander…” She trails off, unsure.
After a contemplative pause, she continues, writing all the while, “Let’s just say he became unfit for duty and was removed. What I’d like you to do is take command of this legion, and mold them into a more effective fighting force than they already are. How you do this or what the result is is entirely up to you, all I ask is that they not be made into something so situationally useful as to be unable to assail a significant range of problems. Keep things relatively versatile, is all.”
“To accomplish this goal, do whatever is necessary. File for transfers, request funds, have new training ground built, recruit new men from elsewhere, whatever needs to be done. I’ll see to it that your requests are approved and the bureaucratic side of things is expedited to enable you. Keep me up to date on your progress, and I would appreciate being told your end goal before you begin, but do you have any questions so far?”
Apparently finished with the document, Naoki turns her gaze upward to consider Adrian with golden eyes.
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Adrian von Heschburg
Dedicated
Roleplay posts: 209
Age: 34
Physical Description: A well-built man, standing at 6'0 and weighing 175 lbs. Adrian was a Vessian knight, and his upbringing molded him into a man befitting of his status. Constant activity in service to the Brotherhood has only enhanced his physique.
He has short, dark brown hair, dark blue eyes, and an overall handsome appearance. One might see a hint of innocence buried beneath regret and heartbreak.
Clothes and Equipment: Adrian wears either mail or plate armor, along with a white surcoat depicting a black cross. He also wears a cloak that covers his body when necessary. At times he may choose to wear a helmet.
His choice weapon is usually a longsword, used in conjunction with a heater shield. On horseback he adds a lance to his arsenal. Adrian may carry a Vessian hand crossbow and bolts if he feels it is appropriate.
Like most Brothers, his horse is always white.
Registered: Sept 20, 2015 4:33:51 GMT -8
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Post by Adrian von Heschburg on Jun 18, 2016 7:11:58 GMT -8
Adrian listened as Naoki spoke to him, and he could feel the anticipation growing within him. "The Sixth Legion?" Adrian nodded, satisfied. "They shall do. And do not worry, I shall train them to the best of my ability. I have some ideas for the legion, Madame Naoki. During my time in the Brotherhood, we were made aware of a fortress here in the Free Plains known as Crim. Hochmeister Konrad forbid us from entering or even venturing near the fortress. But as I am no longer restricted by the Brother's rules, I ventured within, and I believe it will make an excellent post for the Sixth Legion."
Adrian stood up and smiled at Naoki. "I am glad I can be of service to you, m'lady. I will go and meet with the officers of the Sixth Legion, and see what I can do about renovating Crim to fit our needs. I'll send word to you and Chancellor Ryden when ready. If that's all, I shall take my leave."
If Naoki had nothing else to add, Adrian would say his goodbyes, bow respectfully, and exit the office.
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Empress Naoki
Famous
Roleplay posts: 2,238
Physical Description: =========================
Empress Naoki is a curvaceous woman of average height, indeterminate age, and catlike features. Her hair is a dark auburn, often pulled back into a long braid. Her ears are both soft and fluffy, and her tail is never less than perfectly groomed. Amber eyes glisten in the shadows cast by her hair.
Clothes and Equipment: =========================
Naoki's wardrobe is to her as a frame is to a painting. Sometimes embellished with detail to be attractive in its own right, but never the focus. Usually simple but elegant, tightly fitting and highly revealing, used only to frame the beauty within.
Additionally, Naoki is, when clothed, often adorned with a small collection of accessories. She wears an earring, a brilliant cut amethyst, in her right ear. The silver signet ring of Isra is worn on her left pinky, marking her as High Lady of Isra. Directly adjacent, she wears the golden signet ring of The Isran Empire as its Empress. On the inside of her left thigh, there is a tattoo depicting a rose entwined with tentacles.
Allegiances: The Isran Empire
Player's online availability : Excessively often. Timezone: ET (-5)
Registered: Sept 12, 2015 13:02:17 GMT -8
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Post by Empress Naoki on Jun 18, 2016 7:31:27 GMT -8
“Hold on just a moment...”
After spending just a moment to scan her newly completed document for errors, Madame Naoki signs her signature to the bottom of the document with a quick flourish of her quill, rolls it shut, and stamps it with a wax seal. Standing, she brandishes the scroll in Adrian’s direction, moving it as she speaks.
“You’re not going to be able to simply approach the Sixth Legion, state that you are their new commander and have them believe your word alone and comply. At least, it would be against protocol for them to do so. This document is an executive order specifying and granting you the permissions I just outlined. If anyone challenges you, show them this.”
With that, Naoki hands the scroll to Adrian.
“I’ll see you again soon, I presume. And you be cautious with those forbidden magics. They’re probably forbidden for a very good reason, and I’d hate to see you harmed so soon after making your acquaintance.”
She punctuates this statement with a small wink.
“Have a good day, and take care.”
Following Adrian’s departure, Lady Naoki reseats herself and begins the infinitely nuanced task of figuring out just what ought to be done next, sifting through half-completed lists and documents from her inbox.
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Jean Lait
Established
Roleplay posts: 24
Age: 39
Physical Description:
An average-sized halfling—little more than three feet tall—Jean Lait is unremarkable for his kind. He's got hairy cheeks and a mop of messy brown hair that he tries to keep in check. He's got a farmer's tan and calloused hands reflecting the many long hours of work he's put into the fields outside of the Free City.
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Clothes and Equipment: When out at work in the fields, Jean wears an old loose shirt and patched up breeches. Having recently sold his farm, though, he's spending more time inside the city and taken to wearing more fashionable vests, long-sleeved shirts, and pants that don't have holes worn into them. He's even taken to wearing fashionable suits for work.
Like most halflings, though, he still goes barefoot everywhere.
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Registered: Jun 9, 2016 1:21:08 GMT -8
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Post by Jean Lait on Jul 7, 2016 7:43:31 GMT -8
Some time after his meeting with Chancellor Greyiron but before the Assembly meeting later that day, Jean Lait makes his way to the Lady's office. He's glad to be here. Not only is this his chance to affirm his position in the Conclave, but the fact that the Lady requested this meeting means that she's noticed him. He's become big enough politically that the leader of Isra sees fit to meet with him. Whether it's to just get a read on him or to assert her authority over him doesn't matter. What matters is that he's getting noticed.
He walks up to one of the guards outside of the inlaid double doors. "Hello," he says. "Jean Lait of the Sunset Party. I'm here to see Lady Naoki. I have an appointment." If the guards make him wait then he'll plop himself up on one of the long benches outside of the office. He'll realize that it is nothing but a petty power play, keeping him waiting past the appointed hour. But Jean will not let himself be intimidated in this way.
On the other hand, if Jean is permitted to enter the office on time, he'll realize that the Lady's reputation for efficiency may be well deserved. Putting politicking aside in favor of doing what's best for Isra. In this case, meeting with Jean.
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Empress Naoki
Famous
Roleplay posts: 2,238
Physical Description: =========================
Empress Naoki is a curvaceous woman of average height, indeterminate age, and catlike features. Her hair is a dark auburn, often pulled back into a long braid. Her ears are both soft and fluffy, and her tail is never less than perfectly groomed. Amber eyes glisten in the shadows cast by her hair.
Clothes and Equipment: =========================
Naoki's wardrobe is to her as a frame is to a painting. Sometimes embellished with detail to be attractive in its own right, but never the focus. Usually simple but elegant, tightly fitting and highly revealing, used only to frame the beauty within.
Additionally, Naoki is, when clothed, often adorned with a small collection of accessories. She wears an earring, a brilliant cut amethyst, in her right ear. The silver signet ring of Isra is worn on her left pinky, marking her as High Lady of Isra. Directly adjacent, she wears the golden signet ring of The Isran Empire as its Empress. On the inside of her left thigh, there is a tattoo depicting a rose entwined with tentacles.
Allegiances: The Isran Empire
Player's online availability : Excessively often. Timezone: ET (-5)
Registered: Sept 12, 2015 13:02:17 GMT -8
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Post by Empress Naoki on Jul 8, 2016 22:27:57 GMT -8
Jean Lait is made to wait only a handful of moments, as the guards silently confer. Presently, they nod, and hold the door open for him to enter, “So you do. Proceed.”
Madame Naoki is sitting, as she tends to be, at her desk. On this rather unremarkable day, she is wearing an off-shoulder white blouse with bell sleeves, and presumably some manner of lower garment, though it isn’t visible through the desk. As the doors open and Jean enters, she glances up from whatever manner of document she would seem to be reading, and nods slightly to acknowledge his presence before gesturing to the guest chairs, inviting him to seat himself.
As he presumably does so, she concludes reviewing the parchment, and sets it off to one side. For a moment, she simply considers him,. An interesting sort of thing, he is. Halflings tend to be, she supposes. Idly, she wonders if the sideburns technically count as a racial feature in the same way the pointed ears do. Resting her upper arms on the surface of the desk, she laces her fingers together and leans forward slightly, addressing Jean, “Mr. Lait. Congratulations on your election. I hear you’d like to serve on my Conclave.”
Here, she stops speaking, prompting Jean to elaborate in his own words, to hear how he explains things himself before offering her thoughts one way or another.
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Jean Lait
Established
Roleplay posts: 24
Age: 39
Physical Description:
An average-sized halfling—little more than three feet tall—Jean Lait is unremarkable for his kind. He's got hairy cheeks and a mop of messy brown hair that he tries to keep in check. He's got a farmer's tan and calloused hands reflecting the many long hours of work he's put into the fields outside of the Free City.
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Clothes and Equipment: When out at work in the fields, Jean wears an old loose shirt and patched up breeches. Having recently sold his farm, though, he's spending more time inside the city and taken to wearing more fashionable vests, long-sleeved shirts, and pants that don't have holes worn into them. He's even taken to wearing fashionable suits for work.
Like most halflings, though, he still goes barefoot everywhere.
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Registered: Jun 9, 2016 1:21:08 GMT -8
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Post by Jean Lait on Jul 9, 2016 1:35:25 GMT -8
Jean sits in the large, human-sized chair while Naoki finishes reviewing the last of whatever document she's got in front of her. His feet do not actually reach the floor. He's heard that that the bigwigs in the Citadel often have spare seating for larger guests but they never seem to have any for proper-sized people. But Jean pays it no mind. He's been sitting in big seats his whole life.
As for the Lady herself, she doesn't look all that intimidating up close. She's just a woman with some rather odd feline attributes. She's attractive, of course, but anyone can go see a mage and look twenty years younger if they have the money. A spell here and a glamour there can turn homely to comely for anyway, even politicians. And besides, Jean isn't here to be seduced by Naoki or her reputation.
"Thank you, Lady Naoki," he says when she brings up his recent election victory. "My staff and I are very pleased that the people of Isra saw fit to place me in such a position." It is at this point that he notices the orange crystals behind Naoki. What had she done with the statues Lord Ildesias had in this office? He saw them, once, a few years ago when he came to meet with the Lord about some business or other. She's changing this office the same way she's changing all of Isra! It's so garish, those crystals.
He puts that ugly thought out of his mind, though, and continues to say, "and you are quite right that I'd like to serve on the Conclave." He makes it a point to say the Conclave rather than her Conclave. The legislature isn't hers, as much as she'd like it to be. "If anything, I'd like to follow your example. From what I understand, you ran a successful business before being chosen as Treasurer. I, too, ran a business. Farming, of course, not the hospitality services you've provided."
Jean leans forward in the comfy chair. My, even the buttons on the upholstery are oversized. "I'll take the skills I used in my line of work—the same skills you used in yours—and put them to work for the people of Isra. With me in the Conclave I have no doubts that the citizens of our Free State will be better off. With me in the Ministry of Primary Industries they'll be better off materially, too."
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Empress Naoki
Famous
Roleplay posts: 2,238
Physical Description: =========================
Empress Naoki is a curvaceous woman of average height, indeterminate age, and catlike features. Her hair is a dark auburn, often pulled back into a long braid. Her ears are both soft and fluffy, and her tail is never less than perfectly groomed. Amber eyes glisten in the shadows cast by her hair.
Clothes and Equipment: =========================
Naoki's wardrobe is to her as a frame is to a painting. Sometimes embellished with detail to be attractive in its own right, but never the focus. Usually simple but elegant, tightly fitting and highly revealing, used only to frame the beauty within.
Additionally, Naoki is, when clothed, often adorned with a small collection of accessories. She wears an earring, a brilliant cut amethyst, in her right ear. The silver signet ring of Isra is worn on her left pinky, marking her as High Lady of Isra. Directly adjacent, she wears the golden signet ring of The Isran Empire as its Empress. On the inside of her left thigh, there is a tattoo depicting a rose entwined with tentacles.
Allegiances: The Isran Empire
Player's online availability : Excessively often. Timezone: ET (-5)
Registered: Sept 12, 2015 13:02:17 GMT -8
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Post by Empress Naoki on Jul 9, 2016 2:15:16 GMT -8
Naoki nods slowly as he continues, maintaining eye contact and keeping one ear trained forward in his direction. He’s quite the talker, this one. Each phrase more sumptuous than the last; it’s no wonder that he managed to sweet-talk his way into a few votes.
“You’d like to relieve me of the Industrial portfolio, then. I see.” For as impassioned as Jean may be feeling, Naoki's emotions- if there even are any at present, hide beneath the surface.
She had heard from Ryden that Jean was also interested in the Economic portfolio, but it seems that he hasn’t mentioned that. Wise of him, she muses. She pauses for a moment before continuing, “And, aspirations aside, what manner of qualifications do you have? There are lots of farmers in Isra, and it would be foolish of me to appoint any old stable boy with a silver tongue to such a position. Do you have any formal education, or any prior experience in the field beyond owning a farm? You’ve only just been elected to the Assembly, and have yet to prove yourself as a member of the government. I don’t know of your abilities or proficiencies. What makes you the best choice for the post? Why should you be appointed, instead of any other candidate?"
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Jean Lait
Established
Roleplay posts: 24
Age: 39
Physical Description:
An average-sized halfling—little more than three feet tall—Jean Lait is unremarkable for his kind. He's got hairy cheeks and a mop of messy brown hair that he tries to keep in check. He's got a farmer's tan and calloused hands reflecting the many long hours of work he's put into the fields outside of the Free City.
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Clothes and Equipment: When out at work in the fields, Jean wears an old loose shirt and patched up breeches. Having recently sold his farm, though, he's spending more time inside the city and taken to wearing more fashionable vests, long-sleeved shirts, and pants that don't have holes worn into them. He's even taken to wearing fashionable suits for work.
Like most halflings, though, he still goes barefoot everywhere.
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Registered: Jun 9, 2016 1:21:08 GMT -8
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Post by Jean Lait on Jul 12, 2016 4:43:42 GMT -8
It's odd how her ears move independently of each other like that. Jean wonders if she has human ears, too, hidden beneath her hair. And if she doesn't then is it just smooth skin?
Jean puts all of that out of his mind. He has been asked a question. "I do not merely 'run a farm,' Lady Naoki. I started out that way, sure, when we first founded the Free City all those years ago. But this wonderful city grew so rapidly that the produce from the farms became insufficient. It wasn't that all these farms in the Free Plains weren't producing, no. It was that the food wasn't being delivered efficiently."
The halfling adjusted himself on the big chair yet again. "With no one else taking action, I took it upon myself to get my fellow halflings organized. My plans for wagon convoys and cross-farm trails got our products to the growing City markets." There is pride in his voice. Jean is happy with what he did for his people He's happy that his problem-solving skills helped him come up with that solution.
"My efficiency plans got the food to market. My deals with the merchants got the food sold. It created demand. Soon, we could not even keep up with supply! My friends came to me again to help them feed the city. This is when I came up with an idea that I think will transfer best to the Ministry: acquisition. I made deals with local landowners, with foreign contacts, to get more homesteaders in the Free Plains, to construct more farms. Most of the farms north of the City exist as a result of my negotiations and planning."
Jean once again sizes up Naoki. The Lady is a city cat. What happens in the hardworking, dirty farms way outside of town obviously never concern her. It is no surprise that she knows so little about agricultural organization or its impact on the prosperity of the Free City. Unless, of course, she does know about it and is only playing dumb to patronize the halfling. He won't put that past her.
"Why should you appoint me instead of any other? Why, no one else could have brought together the farming community the way I did. And I would do the same thing for all of Isra that I did with my community. There is increasing demand for goods in Isra. The new Navy demands resources, the new armies, the new forges. But there hasn't been a corresponding increase in supply."
He leans forward to press his point. "With my diverse contacts across the Free Plains, I'd get those resources for our people. With my unique charm I'd negotiate for new lands and get locals to better develop the lands we already have. Depending on my budget, I'd even create a regulatory and enforcement agency to curb waste and fraud. Not everyone who robs Isra is a highwayman."
"It'd be easier to acquire resources with the power of Finance behind me, of course. The authority to make trade deals makes it that much easier to bring things into Isra. I suppose I could liaise with whoever you appoint to that seat in the Conclave. It would be less efficient, surely, but unless you can think of some other way then we'll just have to deal with it."
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Empress Naoki
Famous
Roleplay posts: 2,238
Physical Description: =========================
Empress Naoki is a curvaceous woman of average height, indeterminate age, and catlike features. Her hair is a dark auburn, often pulled back into a long braid. Her ears are both soft and fluffy, and her tail is never less than perfectly groomed. Amber eyes glisten in the shadows cast by her hair.
Clothes and Equipment: =========================
Naoki's wardrobe is to her as a frame is to a painting. Sometimes embellished with detail to be attractive in its own right, but never the focus. Usually simple but elegant, tightly fitting and highly revealing, used only to frame the beauty within.
Additionally, Naoki is, when clothed, often adorned with a small collection of accessories. She wears an earring, a brilliant cut amethyst, in her right ear. The silver signet ring of Isra is worn on her left pinky, marking her as High Lady of Isra. Directly adjacent, she wears the golden signet ring of The Isran Empire as its Empress. On the inside of her left thigh, there is a tattoo depicting a rose entwined with tentacles.
Allegiances: The Isran Empire
Player's online availability : Excessively often. Timezone: ET (-5)
Registered: Sept 12, 2015 13:02:17 GMT -8
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Post by Empress Naoki on Jul 13, 2016 13:20:39 GMT -8
The third option, of course, is that Naoki is fully aware of Jean and his activities, and only asked to hear it from his mouth. There’s always a difference between what the files say and what the subject says. Discrepancies. Phrasing. Omitted portions. Hearing about someone describe their own accomplishments is telling about the individual in more ways than one. And, Naoki thinks, if she’s about to appoint Jean to manage Isra’s industries, she had better know him pretty well.
Following his explanations, she nods. More of the same powerful words and sumptuous-sounding plans, but this time he’s made a case for himself. Naoki had been part of that initial demand on the Plains’ farms. The Midnight Sun has- and still does, even, demand a rather significant quantity of goods from the farms around Isra. As of late, more and more of that demand has been met by foreign imports, granted, but Jean’s wagon trains most probably played a part. Naoki may have even negotiated with some of Jean’s fellows, though she doesn’t recall meeting the half-man himself before.
She also notes how Jean has conveniently skipped over any mention of formal education. Of which at least some is necessary to fulfill the position, she notes. “Alright, Lait. You make a solid case for yourself. However, I see one issue. Politics work is- and take this from me, far more than simply contacts, a nice-sounding plan, and “unique charm”. If it were not, I wouldn’t need anyone to help.”
Here, she inserts a smirk. “Charm” is something she has in spades.
However, it fades quickly, and she continues, “Those things are important, don’t misunderstand me, but there’s a bit more. Notably, being able to work as part of a larger team- in your case, The Conclave, and the nitty-gritty work of reading documents, filing paperwork, and that sort of thing.”
“Before I consider offering you an appointment, I need to know that you’ll be willing to work as part of the team even if your own individual vision does not agree with the vision of the team. Or my own, or those of the Chancellor, or the popular vote, or whatever else the overriding case may be. And also that you’ll be willing to learn the proper ways to do your paperwork and such. There’s a surprising amount to it, I’ve found.”
“Assuming you find yourself willing to do those two things, and barring any as of yet unseen issues or complications- (if you turn out to be a massive addict or a foreign spy or something like that,) I would be willing to offer you the portfolio.”
With that said, she leans back in her seat, arms folded, eyeing him to gauge his response.
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Jean Lait
Established
Roleplay posts: 24
Age: 39
Physical Description:
An average-sized halfling—little more than three feet tall—Jean Lait is unremarkable for his kind. He's got hairy cheeks and a mop of messy brown hair that he tries to keep in check. He's got a farmer's tan and calloused hands reflecting the many long hours of work he's put into the fields outside of the Free City.
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Clothes and Equipment: When out at work in the fields, Jean wears an old loose shirt and patched up breeches. Having recently sold his farm, though, he's spending more time inside the city and taken to wearing more fashionable vests, long-sleeved shirts, and pants that don't have holes worn into them. He's even taken to wearing fashionable suits for work.
Like most halflings, though, he still goes barefoot everywhere.
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Registered: Jun 9, 2016 1:21:08 GMT -8
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Post by Jean Lait on Jul 14, 2016 5:16:32 GMT -8
So she finally says what she's been wanting to ask this whole time. If Jean gets power within the government then is he going to use that power to piss in her punch bowl. Well, of course he is. What's the point of running a campaign that promises to change things back to the way things were before the Lady messed them up if he's just going to become another sycophant in her entourage?
Jean's smart enough not to say that outright, of course. Instead he says, "I, again, plan to follow your example, Lady Naoki. If the Conclave reaches a collective decision then I'd be honor bound to obey it just as much as you would. It wouldn't be right for me or any one person to go against the will of the people as expressed through their elected representatives in the Assembly. It would be unjust to pursue one's own vision if it were at odds with the majority's vision, wouldn't it? I think so. So, no, you won't see me working against the interests of the people of the Free State. I'll be a team player."
He gives an affable laugh and changes the topic. "And if you're concerned with my ability to do paperwork then I can have one of the kids send over some of the old ledgers we keep in storage. That'll show you my handiwork. You see, the best way to win in the market is to predict trends. And the best way to predict trends is keeping records and later analyzing those records. We halflings have prospered here in the Free State in part because of our diligence in paperwork and none are more diligent than me."
With that, he leans back a bit in his overly large chair, his feet swinging a bit just an inch or two above the floor. He looks to the Lady on the other side of the desk sitting in her appropriately-sized chair. What more questions does she have for him? His boundless confidence assures him that'll he'll be able to answer any of them with satisfaction.
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Empress Naoki
Famous
Roleplay posts: 2,238
Physical Description: =========================
Empress Naoki is a curvaceous woman of average height, indeterminate age, and catlike features. Her hair is a dark auburn, often pulled back into a long braid. Her ears are both soft and fluffy, and her tail is never less than perfectly groomed. Amber eyes glisten in the shadows cast by her hair.
Clothes and Equipment: =========================
Naoki's wardrobe is to her as a frame is to a painting. Sometimes embellished with detail to be attractive in its own right, but never the focus. Usually simple but elegant, tightly fitting and highly revealing, used only to frame the beauty within.
Additionally, Naoki is, when clothed, often adorned with a small collection of accessories. She wears an earring, a brilliant cut amethyst, in her right ear. The silver signet ring of Isra is worn on her left pinky, marking her as High Lady of Isra. Directly adjacent, she wears the golden signet ring of The Isran Empire as its Empress. On the inside of her left thigh, there is a tattoo depicting a rose entwined with tentacles.
Allegiances: The Isran Empire
Player's online availability : Excessively often. Timezone: ET (-5)
Registered: Sept 12, 2015 13:02:17 GMT -8
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Post by Empress Naoki on Jul 16, 2016 16:44:07 GMT -8
“So we’re on the same page, then,” she said, knowing fully well that they were not.
“Consider your appointment secured, then. I’ve made clear my expectations, and you’ve declared that you will fill them. At the next meeting of the conclave, I’ll voice my decision, and you’ll be able to attend every meeting after that one. And I’d encourage you to do so.”
Naoki pulled one of the papers out, and made a few quick notes as she continued, “In the meantime, I’ll suggest that you begin formalizing your plans, if you’ve not already. It seems like you have a lot of ideas for how Isra’s industries ought to be run, and you should be prepared to present those plans cohesively at your first meeting if you’d like to receive immediate approval and authority to put them into place.”
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Jean Lait
Established
Roleplay posts: 24
Age: 39
Physical Description:
An average-sized halfling—little more than three feet tall—Jean Lait is unremarkable for his kind. He's got hairy cheeks and a mop of messy brown hair that he tries to keep in check. He's got a farmer's tan and calloused hands reflecting the many long hours of work he's put into the fields outside of the Free City.
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Clothes and Equipment: When out at work in the fields, Jean wears an old loose shirt and patched up breeches. Having recently sold his farm, though, he's spending more time inside the city and taken to wearing more fashionable vests, long-sleeved shirts, and pants that don't have holes worn into them. He's even taken to wearing fashionable suits for work.
Like most halflings, though, he still goes barefoot everywhere.
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Registered: Jun 9, 2016 1:21:08 GMT -8
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Post by Jean Lait on Jul 18, 2016 0:20:11 GMT -8
Jean gets out of the big chair and stands up straight before the woman behind the desk. He says, "this is all very good to hear. Thank you, Lady Naoki. Even though it may have been presumptuous of me, I have been drafting plans for the Ministry of Industry. I recognized that you'd see the wisdom of my appointment there."
He doesn't extend his hand for her to shake but he does allow the courtesy of a nod. A deep nod. Almost a bow. "If our business is done here, Lady, then I shall leave you to your work. I should prepare for the Assembly meeting later today."
Assuming there is nothing more that she wants from him, the halfling listens to her reply and then leaves the office. Once outside and around the corner from the guards at her door Jean lets the biggest grin of his life reach across his face. He's done it! It is all set, now. It only needs to be made official.
With a little extra spring in his steep he walks down the Citadel corridors.
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Empress Naoki
Famous
Roleplay posts: 2,238
Physical Description: =========================
Empress Naoki is a curvaceous woman of average height, indeterminate age, and catlike features. Her hair is a dark auburn, often pulled back into a long braid. Her ears are both soft and fluffy, and her tail is never less than perfectly groomed. Amber eyes glisten in the shadows cast by her hair.
Clothes and Equipment: =========================
Naoki's wardrobe is to her as a frame is to a painting. Sometimes embellished with detail to be attractive in its own right, but never the focus. Usually simple but elegant, tightly fitting and highly revealing, used only to frame the beauty within.
Additionally, Naoki is, when clothed, often adorned with a small collection of accessories. She wears an earring, a brilliant cut amethyst, in her right ear. The silver signet ring of Isra is worn on her left pinky, marking her as High Lady of Isra. Directly adjacent, she wears the golden signet ring of The Isran Empire as its Empress. On the inside of her left thigh, there is a tattoo depicting a rose entwined with tentacles.
Allegiances: The Isran Empire
Player's online availability : Excessively often. Timezone: ET (-5)
Registered: Sept 12, 2015 13:02:17 GMT -8
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Post by Empress Naoki on Jul 18, 2016 17:33:10 GMT -8
Naoki returns his nod with a half-nod of her own, and watches him turn about and depart. After the doors are safely shut behind him, she scoffs.
'I recognized that you'd see the wisdom of my appointment.' Absolute rubbish. Perhaps it would be easiest to knock him off now, and spare the frustration later.
She considers the notion, but decides against it for the time being. Perhaps later. For now, some new policies are in order. Selecting a blank sheet of parchment, Naoki dips her quill and, after a moment of contemplation, begins to dance her quill across the page.
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Lord Crovan of House Winter
Dedicated
Roleplay posts: 414
Age: 25
Physical Description: A lean man but tall man, his skin pale but still sun touched. His muscles are toned and well built. His hands calloused from years of training and swordplay. His chest His hair is straight but curls slightly at the ends and settles on his shoulders, a short trimmed beard graces his gaunt cheeks and angular jaw, framing his soft pink lips. His eyes are a sharp blue, bright and strong.
Clothes and Equipment: Clad in dark clothing, a soft cotton layer.
A hauberk of hard dark leather adorns his chest. Occasionally he will wear an additional layer of steel chain mail over this. Vambraces on his forearms are also of dark leather, a dagger sheathed within his left. Boots carefully made of soft and hard leather armor his feet and lower legs.
http://i.imgur.com/z1VU1NB.jpg
Over all of this he wears a woolen cloak, fur sewn into the shoulders and leather straps cross his chest forming an X and holding the cloak firmly in place. It just barely drags the ground as he walks.
His belt holds a dagger and a bastard sword. A set made of steel only beaten in strength by mythril. Shining bright and pure. The hit is a slightly curved cross of this steel, thick and strong, helping to balance the blade. Its handle of carved wood and wrapped craftfully in leather. The pummel is also this steel shaped carefully into a wolf's head and painted black with green eyes.
http://i.imgur.com/lok767M.jpg
If expecting battle he will carry a shield with the mark of his house.
Player's online availability : 2:30AM-4:00AM (UTC-6:00) + Weekends 12:00-4:00
Registered: May 5, 2016 23:25:45 GMT -8
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Post by Lord Crovan of House Winter on Jul 25, 2016 11:17:37 GMT -8
Crovan, still in full battle regalia, made his way to the High Lady's office with Elizabeth Finch alongside him. They had just returned form Goraia's northern border and had a report ready for the High Lady. Crovan would wait outside the doors patiently for Naoki to call them in, assuming the guards would notify the lady of their presence.
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The Isran Empire
Dedicated
Roleplay posts: 468
Allegiances: The Isran Empire
Registered: Apr 3, 2016 10:52:37 GMT -8
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Post by The Isran Empire on Jul 25, 2016 11:38:34 GMT -8
After a moment of silence, the door guards nod to Lord Crovan and the High Commodore, and the pair of them push the doors open, indicating that the pair of them are free to proceed in.
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Elizabeth Finch
Main Character
Roleplay posts: 512
Age: 29
Physical Description: Elizabeth, or Liz, stands at about 5'9", weighing in at about 160lbs, most of it muscle from years of riding and fighting. She has platinum blonde hair, usually tied in a ponytail to fit inside her helmet. Her eyes are a vibrant shade of green that contrasts well with her tanned skin. She would be considered attractive if she ever removed her armor, otherwise her face is the only indication that underneath the iron discipline and plate armor is an attractive woman.
Clothes and Equipment: Liz wears a normal looking set of plate armor that is custom fitted for her specifically, and does not hide her gender. She wields a lance when mounted. Javelins are carried in her mounts saddle. Her mount is a young Griffin by the name of St. George, he is full grown in height, but does not yet have the full mass of a adult griffin. She wears plain clothes when not in armor and her shield bears the symbol of the Dawn Riders on it, and her breastplate bears the symbol of Isra on it. She wears a small necklace with a purple gemstone on it underneath her breastplate, only visible when she she is unarmored. Her sword has the insignia of the midnight sun engraved in the hilt, as it is relatively out of sight and does not violate the military dress code. Her primary weapon is her sword, an ancient Elven artifact passed down by her bloodline. It is wreathed in green lightning when unsheathed and wielded by her, and she has a sunmetal shield that complements it with magical abilities of its own.
Player's online availability : Weekends/Nights EST
Registered: Apr 6, 2016 12:16:13 GMT -8
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Post by Elizabeth Finch on Jul 25, 2016 16:06:36 GMT -8
Liz strode into Naoki's office, saluting the High Lady before taking a seat across from her. She smelled vaguely of griffin and sweat from the morning's excursion plus the usual Dawn Rider...dawn...training thing. Liz made a mental note to come up with a better name for the early morning training...might improve morale or some such thing.
"Lady Naoki, Lord Crovan and I have come to give our report on the events at the Goraian border. Would you like the long version or the short version?"
She did her best to avoid catching Crovan's eye as they walked into the office, her features doing their best to her embarrass her as she did so. She had a feeling that Naoki could sense desire in the air, and that was not what she wanted sensed at the moment.
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