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 19, 2019 15:15:31 GMT -8
“Hmmh!” Naoki murmurs acknowledgment as the fireplace bursts into flame. As an aside, she wonders what would happen if she were to ask Koitika for a ride around the city. … Probably nothing good.
With the grating locked in place, Naoki steps around Gundulf to the table.
“Because you have that pre-cataclysm magic, don’t you,” she supposes, pouring the tea. “Sounds convenient.”
Naoki pours one cup for Deidra, one cup for herself, and sits. She slots her tail through the purpose-made hole in her chair, wiggles a little bit to settle in, and sighs— comfortable.
“I enjoy a good fire,” she muses, pausing to blow on her tea. “It crackles and pops in that way that it does, is good for staring into, and—if you use the right wood, can smell pleasant. This is cedar,” Naoki gestures with her cup.
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Knight-Captain Calgary
Dedicated
Roleplay posts: 138
Age: 24
Physical Description: A fitting description is tall, dark, and handsome. He is tall, coming in at about 6'4" and weighing 225lbs, he is one if the largest Dawn Riders. He has brown eyes, and keeps his black hair close to his scalp.
Clothes and Equipment: He wears a full set of heavy plate armor, as does his Griffin. He wields a large shield and a larger maul. No ranged weapons of any sort, though he does have an Isran banner flying off the back of his Griffin
Registered: May 12, 2016 9:42:25 GMT -8
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Post by Knight-Captain Calgary on Jun 20, 2019 4:25:03 GMT -8
Much like the erstwhile Commodore, Knight-Captain Calgary was in his element. Throughout the journey, the majestic Dawn Riders swooped and rode through the air, jovial voices singing out battle hymns in exultation. Their primary goal was to keep away any who would encroach upon the small fleet, a task made easy by the large bulk of the Defiance . In addition to the twenty or so riders normally stationed on the carrier, Calgary had brought with him the Elite Radiant Steel Squad, handpicked Dawn Riders that comprised First Squad, First Company of the Dawn Riders and were tasked primarily with defending the Citadel. For such a dangerous journey as this, he thought them far more useful here then back home.
But so far the journey had been easy, many of the Riders delighting to point out the large sea creatures they saw swimming near the fleet, including a sighting of a great sea serpent. The sea serpent was not an uncommon sight to the Riders if the Blade of Dawn . It often patrolled this area, tending to leave the Isran naval ships alone. It was seen as an open of good luck, for never had an expedition failed when they saw the Great Serpent.
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Deidra Nofaló
Committed
Roleplay posts: 81
Age: 22
Physical Description: She stands at a formidable 178 centimeters and is exceedingly well trained and toned. She has an athletic build that had been nurtured since she began her training as a knight at 7 years old. Her hair is a golden blonde and is usually carefully braided back or twisted in a bun when in combat or training. She has piercing grey eyes that seem to take all of the surroundings and she doesn't have the most approachable outwardly expression.
Clothes and Equipment: She typically carries a long sword and a buckler with her. Built into the pommel of her sword is her family's crest, the winged wolf. This is also mirrored in her more ornate armor which has the wolf's head built into her shoulder and the wings in her elbows and behind her knees. She prefers to wear a lighter set of armor when training and sparring though or when walking around town so she can blend in more easily without being recognized.
Allegiances: Edan
Player's online availability : Pretty much whenever I'm awake. *Shrugs*
Registered: Aug 5, 2018 12:12:12 GMT -8
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Post by Deidra Nofaló on Jun 21, 2019 8:04:28 GMT -8
Deidra smiled at that as she looked at the fire, taking a deep breath in. She could just begin to scent the burning wood on the air. Her shoulders relaxed more and she sank into her chair just a bit more subconsciously, letting her guard down. It wasn't like the empress was a threat and Gundulf was with her. "We do have an abundance of the magicks of old. It was their last gifts to my people." She said with a soft sigh, her fingers lightly touching the stone on her forehead subconsciously.
"A good fire warms the body as well as the soul. That has always been the best part of camping for me. Starting up a good fire. I can't say I don't miss the scent of smoke from the mythril logs native to Edan. I grew up with them after all." She said softly before taking a cup of tea, blowing on it lightly.
"... I owe you my gratitude Empress Naoki. There are not many that would immediately accept my word as truth and agree to make the trip out here. I am honestly surprised you didn't just throw me out of your throne room." She mused before taking a sip of tea, glancing over at her to gauge her reaction.
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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 21, 2019 15:56:19 GMT -8
“Well. If you are an actor, you have my most sincere compliments.” Naoki smirks. The sarcasm is heavy but well-intentioned.
“But consider from my point of view.” She gestures as if to lay out the scene.
“A tall, striking woman comes into my throne room and claims to be the princess of some place I’ve never heard of. … This is a somewhat frequent occurrence, people coming and claiming to be someone important. Generally, my policy is to give them the benefit of the doubt, because to immediately question someone’s identity would, of course, start the conversation off on a bad foot and be highly disrespectful, besides. In most cases, the staff is able to verify before they get to me, but I digress.”
She gestures to set the scene again. “So she’s standing there in her armor, with what was quite obviously a high-grade familiar,” Naoki nods toward Gundulf. “And she spins me a tale of a magical land hidden in The Mists, where a whole mess of realms manage by some miracle to function together as a cohesive state. It was a good story and I could go on about why it was convincing and how she carried herself and so on, but ...”
A pause. “In addition to that, I was told who you were before you came in.”
“My assistant — you saw her there on the chair, also claims to be from Edan. Coincidentally and among other things, she manages my visitors. That morning when reviewing the list, she pointed you out as someone of note. In the ensuing conversation, she told me of Edan and what she knew of you—which was hardly anything.”
“And seeing as how your story matched up with hers…” Trailing off, Naoki gestures with her palm up. It all made sense to her, and even if she doubted Deidra, she wouldn’t have "thrown her out."
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Deidra Nofaló
Committed
Roleplay posts: 81
Age: 22
Physical Description: She stands at a formidable 178 centimeters and is exceedingly well trained and toned. She has an athletic build that had been nurtured since she began her training as a knight at 7 years old. Her hair is a golden blonde and is usually carefully braided back or twisted in a bun when in combat or training. She has piercing grey eyes that seem to take all of the surroundings and she doesn't have the most approachable outwardly expression.
Clothes and Equipment: She typically carries a long sword and a buckler with her. Built into the pommel of her sword is her family's crest, the winged wolf. This is also mirrored in her more ornate armor which has the wolf's head built into her shoulder and the wings in her elbows and behind her knees. She prefers to wear a lighter set of armor when training and sparring though or when walking around town so she can blend in more easily without being recognized.
Allegiances: Edan
Player's online availability : Pretty much whenever I'm awake. *Shrugs*
Registered: Aug 5, 2018 12:12:12 GMT -8
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Post by Deidra Nofaló on Jun 23, 2019 13:28:34 GMT -8
Deidra blinked slowly at Naoki's elaborate explanation as to how she pieced together her identity and the thought that went into every action. It wasn't something that was easily done... but the princess found herself looking at her impressed.
I mean, to rule a country as vast and diverse as she had seen Isra to be singlehandedly, she had some idea that there had to be a rather capable team behind it. But she hadn't known just how capable she was until just then. A slow smile graced her lips as she looked at Naoki and took a slow sip from her tea.
"... I cannot deny your reasoning and resources. Paint me impressed." She murmured as she swallowed her sip of tea. It was a pleasant flavor, one to easily grease the wheels of conversation. "I suppose I owe you an apology for thinking you hadn't throughly thought through what you'd done. You have my respect." She said simply before reaching for a cookie, looking pensive.
"A fortunate set of circumstances for me to be sure. I must admit I am curious why you have... a demon of lust in your employ."
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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 23, 2019 20:39:25 GMT -8
Naoki blinks back over the rim of her teacup. Did Deidra assume that she had been taking her on her word this whole time? All the way out to sea? Being complimented for thinking through actions before she takes them is like being applauded for dressing herself in the morning. There are probably leaders who don’t, but it shouldn’t be strange that she does.
The perception of “mainlanders” or whatever the term may be in Edan must not be very good. If they’ve been watching this portion of the Overworld since the end of the Cataclysm... that makes a lot of sense, Naoki supposes. But are expectations going to be this low in Edan, among those who have never seen Isra? Will she and her entourage be treated as simpletons by the “Council?” Naoki hopes that she’s reading too far into it.
Naoki dips her head in hesitant acceptance of what she thinks to be intended as a compliment and reaches for a cookie. She expected more of a response for having told the entire truth in mentioning Koitika, but isn’t going to push the matter.
“It’s a bit of a long story,” she begins. “Why I employ demons … I’ll tell it if you’d like, but the short of it, in her case, is such that she’s one component of a deal I struck with the Demonlady Of Lust some time ago. I’m very happy with the deal — it’s surprisingly equitable for what it is, and I’m very happy with her performance. 'Koitika', is her name, and she’s terribly good at what she does. Having her as my administrative assistant is wonderful. She can write more quickly than I can, take notes, make copies, keep track of my lists…” Naoki gestures onward, implying more as she sips her tea.
“I keep the pages around for tradition, but…” She shrugs. They’re really not necessary.
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Deidra Nofaló
Committed
Roleplay posts: 81
Age: 22
Physical Description: She stands at a formidable 178 centimeters and is exceedingly well trained and toned. She has an athletic build that had been nurtured since she began her training as a knight at 7 years old. Her hair is a golden blonde and is usually carefully braided back or twisted in a bun when in combat or training. She has piercing grey eyes that seem to take all of the surroundings and she doesn't have the most approachable outwardly expression.
Clothes and Equipment: She typically carries a long sword and a buckler with her. Built into the pommel of her sword is her family's crest, the winged wolf. This is also mirrored in her more ornate armor which has the wolf's head built into her shoulder and the wings in her elbows and behind her knees. She prefers to wear a lighter set of armor when training and sparring though or when walking around town so she can blend in more easily without being recognized.
Allegiances: Edan
Player's online availability : Pretty much whenever I'm awake. *Shrugs*
Registered: Aug 5, 2018 12:12:12 GMT -8
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Post by Deidra Nofaló on Jun 26, 2019 16:00:05 GMT -8
Gundulf snorted a bit as Naoki gave a hesitant nod of acceptance to her words making Deidra glance over at her familiar quickly, before realizing what he meant. Deidra was well versed in many subjects but still, how she addressed people was at times lacking. Gundulf-being much older- was far better at picking up on when she missed a cue and typically gave her a little nudge. An apology was on the tip of her tongue but the empress continued before she could.
She was a bit surprised to hear she'd struck a deal with a Demonlady- it typically wasn't in good fashion to make such deals. Even at peace as they were, it was typically better for them to not get involved in such dealings to keep the peace. Cooperation was one thing but any sort of 'deal'... that was dicey.
"...You'll have to excuse me Empress, I meant you no disrespect by saying as I did. Personally, I have run headlong into danger and gotten myself into quite a bit of trouble. Gundulf typically is there to help me for that reason. I respect that you did as that is not something I may do, depending upon if Gundulf is in my ear or not." She said first, settling her teacup on her thigh. "And as for your familiar, I am glad to hear it works for you. Denizens of the Nether are great at what they do- whichever task they are allotted, but the price to pay for their help is frighteningly steep at times. It is similar though in theory to Gundulf and my relationship, though it was forged long before I even know what it meant." She mused looking down at the resting silver beast before she shifted to look over at Naoki again.
"So before I... inadvertently offend you again, what was it that you wanted to talk about with me?"
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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 1, 2019 18:03:37 GMT -8
Confusion fades to defeat as Naoki slumps back in her seat, sighing.
“You didn’t offend me,” she has to explain. “My ego is not so fragile that it can be hurt inadvertently. If you want to offend me, you’ll need to do so purposefully, and if you succeed, I’ll be sure to say as much.”
“As for the topic, I…” She trails off in search of words.
“I don’t have anything specific. ... I just want to talk to someone,” Naoki admits, gesturing in frustration. “You’re the only person around for miles who isn’t directly beholden to my will, and I hoped that here, in this informal setting, with the tea and the cookies and the cozy little fire — that we could speak as equals.”
Sipping her tea bitterly, Naoki doesn’t make eye contact, preferring instead to stare into the fire. What is implied but not said is “seemingly not.” Because it seems like even here, to offend the Empress would be ‘dangerous.’
“I suppose I should have led with that,” Naoki adds, softening. She isn’t upset with Deidra, but the situation and the reputation she seems to have built — the one that makes her unapproachable. It continues to prove challenging to get around.
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Deidra Nofaló
Committed
Roleplay posts: 81
Age: 22
Physical Description: She stands at a formidable 178 centimeters and is exceedingly well trained and toned. She has an athletic build that had been nurtured since she began her training as a knight at 7 years old. Her hair is a golden blonde and is usually carefully braided back or twisted in a bun when in combat or training. She has piercing grey eyes that seem to take all of the surroundings and she doesn't have the most approachable outwardly expression.
Clothes and Equipment: She typically carries a long sword and a buckler with her. Built into the pommel of her sword is her family's crest, the winged wolf. This is also mirrored in her more ornate armor which has the wolf's head built into her shoulder and the wings in her elbows and behind her knees. She prefers to wear a lighter set of armor when training and sparring though or when walking around town so she can blend in more easily without being recognized.
Allegiances: Edan
Player's online availability : Pretty much whenever I'm awake. *Shrugs*
Registered: Aug 5, 2018 12:12:12 GMT -8
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Post by Deidra Nofaló on Jul 2, 2019 19:54:39 GMT -8
Deidra watched the other woman, seeing very familiar expressions of frustration and annoyance sliding over her features, with no small amount of surprise. She hadn't... expected that reaction. In her experience, most royals preferred that they be treated as such, no matter the setting. Formalities were usually the easiest to fall back on. She knew this, and she knew most people thought the same. Which is also why- in part at least- she'd hidden her status as best as she could from those around her. She knew how tiring it was to be surrounded by yes men constantly, and those that would bow and scrape.
So Deidra did what she would have wanted someone else to do in that situation. "...Might've been a bit more helpful." She started before she set into motion.
She set down her tea cup carefully and got up, her hands going to the thick leather breastplate she still wore out of habitat. She removed it carefully unlacing the sides, revealing the maroon button up shirt below which she also ended up partially unbuttoning to a more casual position. She picked up her tea cup and the plate of cookies then, walking over to Gundulf who gave a sigh before rolling over a bit so his underbelly was facing the fire and created the ideal backrest. Deidra settled back down onto the rug, her back resting against Gundulf releasing a pleasant sigh of relief as she cradled her tea cup. After a moment she turned to look back at Naoki and tapped the ground next to her. "You know a fire is best enjoyed quite close up, sitting on the forest floor. This is a nicer approximation." She mused before looking at Naoki, her eyes a bit more sincere and open than they had been. "Care to join me and...let me try not to bollocks up the conversation up this time?"
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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 3, 2019 17:59:23 GMT -8
When Deidra stands up and starts removing her clothing, even Naoki is surprised — she wasn’t even trying! But when realization dawns and she sees what Deidra is doing, it makes sense. Unsure what to do with herself, Naoki sits quietly in her seat until invited to move.
“Mmmh!” Murmuring affirmatively in response, Naoki stands. “I should have said something sooner.”
As she seats herself, Naoki is careful not to sit on Gundulf’s paws or brush him with her tail. Though she isn’t necessarily scared of him, there's no sense in disturbing a sleeping dog, as it were. In her sweaterdress, she sits sidesaddle, saucer on the floor next to her.
Even though it feels as though she’s being humored, Naoki doesn’t mind; beggars can’t be choosers. To say “thank you” out loud would be too much, too soon, but the intention is evident on her face.
“... Because you travel, don’t you,” she remarks, considering the bit about the forest floor. The question is only-half rhetorical, intended to serve as an easy conversation-starter.
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Deidra Nofaló
Committed
Roleplay posts: 81
Age: 22
Physical Description: She stands at a formidable 178 centimeters and is exceedingly well trained and toned. She has an athletic build that had been nurtured since she began her training as a knight at 7 years old. Her hair is a golden blonde and is usually carefully braided back or twisted in a bun when in combat or training. She has piercing grey eyes that seem to take all of the surroundings and she doesn't have the most approachable outwardly expression.
Clothes and Equipment: She typically carries a long sword and a buckler with her. Built into the pommel of her sword is her family's crest, the winged wolf. This is also mirrored in her more ornate armor which has the wolf's head built into her shoulder and the wings in her elbows and behind her knees. She prefers to wear a lighter set of armor when training and sparring though or when walking around town so she can blend in more easily without being recognized.
Allegiances: Edan
Player's online availability : Pretty much whenever I'm awake. *Shrugs*
Registered: Aug 5, 2018 12:12:12 GMT -8
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Post by Deidra Nofaló on Jul 7, 2019 15:04:23 GMT -8
"I do. I have for quite some time now." Deidra mused with a pleasant smile.Gundulf as always radiated a reassuring warmth and hum of magic. He could effectively make any situation Deidra found herself in better. Gundulf for his part, watched Naoki closely as she came to sit by her. He seemed to be judging if she was sitting at a respectful distance- which lucky for her, she was. He stopped watching her in time to relax again, but there was no doubt he was still watching her somehow.
"...The mortal realm of Edan is the most vast and diverse of all the four realms. There is the greatest amount of species, spirits, and people occupying that plane. To rule such a place, therefore, you must know who is out there." Deidra sighed softly as she rested against Gundulf, tilting her head up to look at the ceiling. "Every ruler of the mortal realm goes on a pilgrimage out from Nivra- the capital- to the greater world. To learn the culture and the people out there. It is tradition to leave your title and all behind- but for your familiar and learn what it is to be in the world. How things interact, live and thrive... I am the first to include the Mainland in their journey and I pray... I am not the last." She said as she turned to look at Naoki again with a slight smile.
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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 7, 2019 18:32:32 GMT -8
“Mmmh.” Murmuring acknowledgment, Naoki nods, understanding.
“That’s a good practice,” she remarks, “I’ll need to remember for once I have my successor: Having a broad worldview makes for a more capable person, especially so in the context of effective leadership. Making decisions with wide-reaching effects can only be done well with knowledge of the world, and your travels — and the experiences you must have had, will doubtlessly make you a more capable ruler.” Nodding toward Deidra as she takes a bite of her cookie, Naoki indicates respect.
“They’ll probably make for good stories, as well,” she adds, gesturing with her half-cookie.
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Deidra Nofaló
Committed
Roleplay posts: 81
Age: 22
Physical Description: She stands at a formidable 178 centimeters and is exceedingly well trained and toned. She has an athletic build that had been nurtured since she began her training as a knight at 7 years old. Her hair is a golden blonde and is usually carefully braided back or twisted in a bun when in combat or training. She has piercing grey eyes that seem to take all of the surroundings and she doesn't have the most approachable outwardly expression.
Clothes and Equipment: She typically carries a long sword and a buckler with her. Built into the pommel of her sword is her family's crest, the winged wolf. This is also mirrored in her more ornate armor which has the wolf's head built into her shoulder and the wings in her elbows and behind her knees. She prefers to wear a lighter set of armor when training and sparring though or when walking around town so she can blend in more easily without being recognized.
Allegiances: Edan
Player's online availability : Pretty much whenever I'm awake. *Shrugs*
Registered: Aug 5, 2018 12:12:12 GMT -8
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Post by Deidra Nofaló on Jul 7, 2019 19:20:06 GMT -8
She smiled warmly at that, even giving a small chuckle. "They will. Especially with my uncanny ability to get lost wherever I go. It's made for some wild adventures..." She mused as she set down her cup, rubbing her upper arm slightly. "And I'm far from done. My father is still well enough to lead so there is no rush for me of yet to take the throne... So I intend to spend my time as best as I can. I can't exactly leave Nivra after taking the throne..." She trailed off a bit as she said this, drawing up her knee to rest her arm against her bent leg.
"I'm just hoping the council doesn't decide that bringing Mainlanders in to negotiate, is grounds to keep me from leaving... prematurely." The blonde haired woman wouldn't be so foolish to show the concern she harbored so plainly on her face to the woman she was dragging across the ocean to meet, but there still was the heaviness in her voice that hadn't been there a moment ago.
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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 7, 2019 20:05:34 GMT -8
Naoki nods all-too-knowingly, reflecting on her own (all but sedentary) life. “It’s a gilded cage, rulership. Once you take the throne, it’ll be hard to leave it for any considerable length of time. … That’s part of why I jumped at this opportunity you’ve given me — thank you.”
Deidra’s second comment gives Naoki pause, causing her to raise one eyebrow. Unfamiliar with Edan’s unorthodox style of bureaucracy, Naoki is unaware of what power the ‘council’ might hold over Deidra and how their proceedings and power dynamics play out.
“What do you mean? You’ve already left Edan, would they keep you from venturing out again? What purpose would there be in that?”
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Deidra Nofaló
Committed
Roleplay posts: 81
Age: 22
Physical Description: She stands at a formidable 178 centimeters and is exceedingly well trained and toned. She has an athletic build that had been nurtured since she began her training as a knight at 7 years old. Her hair is a golden blonde and is usually carefully braided back or twisted in a bun when in combat or training. She has piercing grey eyes that seem to take all of the surroundings and she doesn't have the most approachable outwardly expression.
Clothes and Equipment: She typically carries a long sword and a buckler with her. Built into the pommel of her sword is her family's crest, the winged wolf. This is also mirrored in her more ornate armor which has the wolf's head built into her shoulder and the wings in her elbows and behind her knees. She prefers to wear a lighter set of armor when training and sparring though or when walking around town so she can blend in more easily without being recognized.
Allegiances: Edan
Player's online availability : Pretty much whenever I'm awake. *Shrugs*
Registered: Aug 5, 2018 12:12:12 GMT -8
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Post by Deidra Nofaló on Jul 9, 2019 19:41:19 GMT -8
"The purpose would be to permanently close Edan's borders. Call back all those that have ventured out- including myself and Gundulf- and put up the impassable wards again of the ancients." Deidra's eyes followed the undulating flames with a watchful eye, sighing softly. "If things... If things don't go well with this meeting... And they deem the Mainland to be unsafe still with savages and barbarians... Then Edan will again disappear off the map."
Deidra hand started rubbing up and down her shin slowly as she thought it over. "There is a lot at stake. There are many citizens of Edan who have made their lives out on the Mainland. And to rip that away from them... To force them to give up one of their homes...And to permanently set back my country another.... century maybe?" Her hand stilled before she exhaled heavily."But that... that is worst case scenario. And it won't come to pass." Hopefully.
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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 11, 2019 8:02:02 GMT -8
“... Mmm. No pressure,” Naoki mumbles, downing the rest of her tea.
Glancing over toward the cupboard, she considers going for something stronger but opts not to because that would mean standing up.
“You’re right, though,” she adds, setting the teacup aside. “In that 'it won’t'.”
“Because — and perhaps it’s arrogant of me to think in such a manner, but you’ve done well with your selection. Despite what some might have you think, I haven’t gotten this far riding on men alone. I entered Isra a vagrant and worked my way up to this point on what I would term as decidedly ‘non-barbaric’ merits; barbarians don’t use subtext.”
“I don’t know how your council makes its decisions and of course, I’m not representative of the average mainlander — but it isn’t the average mainlander who will be making the policy decisions. As long as I don’t scare them it ought to be alright, and I’ll admit: being scary is not something I do particularly well.”
Sitting there in front of the fire, nibbling on her cookie, wearing her knitted sweaterdress, Naoki (fuzzy ears and soft tail included) employs a heavy degree of tounge-in-cheek humor.
“The worst plausible scenario is such that I say something snarky, offend the wrong person, and sail home empty-handed.” Naoki shrugs, unconcerned. Even then, it would still have been an enjoyable trip.
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Deidra Nofaló
Committed
Roleplay posts: 81
Age: 22
Physical Description: She stands at a formidable 178 centimeters and is exceedingly well trained and toned. She has an athletic build that had been nurtured since she began her training as a knight at 7 years old. Her hair is a golden blonde and is usually carefully braided back or twisted in a bun when in combat or training. She has piercing grey eyes that seem to take all of the surroundings and she doesn't have the most approachable outwardly expression.
Clothes and Equipment: She typically carries a long sword and a buckler with her. Built into the pommel of her sword is her family's crest, the winged wolf. This is also mirrored in her more ornate armor which has the wolf's head built into her shoulder and the wings in her elbows and behind her knees. She prefers to wear a lighter set of armor when training and sparring though or when walking around town so she can blend in more easily without being recognized.
Allegiances: Edan
Player's online availability : Pretty much whenever I'm awake. *Shrugs*
Registered: Aug 5, 2018 12:12:12 GMT -8
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Post by Deidra Nofaló on Jul 15, 2019 13:49:00 GMT -8
Deidra listened intently to what Naoki had to say before she drew her knees up to her chest, wrapping her arms around them. It was slow but gradually the vaguely worried face dissipated and a slight smile graced her lips and a small chuckle bubbled up at the ‘scary’ comment. The more she interacted with Naoki, the more she felt comfortable in the fact that she had indeed made the correct choice. She was just the type of person that could possibly manage the council- whether it was the old guard or the new one. It was wholly a matter of confidence in herself and her chosen diplomat.
Her intuition had very rarely steered her wrong and Gundulf never did. And still she was sure in her choice.
“Yes…. Yes. Forgive me. You are right. I just need to get out of my own head.” She mused before looking over at Naoki with a smile. “ I have a bad habit of over analyzing things that usually ends up in making matters worse. I just have to trust everything will be fine and it will come to pass.” She mused before she relaxed slowly, letting her legs go free and reclining back against Gundulf. She took a slow deep breath before releasing it and she looked back over at Naoki with a smile.
“We ought to change the subject. Talk about something less heavy… Would you care to tell me a bit about yourself? I will, of course, freely give up anything you care to know about me. Even if it’s just my favorite pastry- which are apple custard tarts.” She said lightly as she turned to lay partly on her side, reaching for another cookie.
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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 25, 2019 18:49:27 GMT -8
“A bit about myself...?” Naoki repeats, surprised at the question. It’s not one she gets often. Drumming her fingers on the rug, she considers. Theoretically, there’s much to tell, but being put on the spot like so... nothing jumps to mind.
“I can’t say that I have a favorite pastry,” she begins, still thinking. “I’ll have to consider that. … But I can’t stand fish.”
“Some would think, ‘Oh, she looks like a cat, she must like fish!’ but no. No no no, let me tell you this story:”
Gesturing with one hand, she sets the scene. “At one point, years ago, before Isra, before The Free City was even founded, in some fledgling town who-knows-where... I was hungry.”
“… Difficult to believe, but true. I was hungry, and there was this fish. I’ll not go into how we obtained the fish but suffice it to say: there was this fish.” Naoki indicates a size of about three feet. “There was this great big fish, and it was the most appetizing fish you’d ever seen. It was a sort of a pale green-blue color, and it smelled like nothing else. It was… fishy, but also somehow very tasty-smelling, mouth-watering, even. It was unique, it was strange. It was strange, and we recognized it was strange at the time, but we were hungry. So we cooked it over our little fire, and then we ate it.”
She pauses to sip her tea. “You can probably see where this is going. We ate our fill (it tasted divine), and then went to bed with little smiles and filled tummies.”
Naoki is quiet for a few moments. The next bit is not among her favorite memories. “... But we did not sleep that night. I’ll spare you the details but that was the sickest I’ve ever been; it was the worst. Luckily, it passed in a few days, but I’m fortunate to have survived; it was bad.”
“I’m not sure what it was exactly, but in hindsight, that was definitely not a mundane fish. Someone’s idea of a cruel joke, or perhaps it was poisoned … And while I’m consciously aware that regular fish are by-and-large quite safe to eat, the smell still reminds me of that one, so I don’t partake of fish.”
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Deidra Nofaló
Committed
Roleplay posts: 81
Age: 22
Physical Description: She stands at a formidable 178 centimeters and is exceedingly well trained and toned. She has an athletic build that had been nurtured since she began her training as a knight at 7 years old. Her hair is a golden blonde and is usually carefully braided back or twisted in a bun when in combat or training. She has piercing grey eyes that seem to take all of the surroundings and she doesn't have the most approachable outwardly expression.
Clothes and Equipment: She typically carries a long sword and a buckler with her. Built into the pommel of her sword is her family's crest, the winged wolf. This is also mirrored in her more ornate armor which has the wolf's head built into her shoulder and the wings in her elbows and behind her knees. She prefers to wear a lighter set of armor when training and sparring though or when walking around town so she can blend in more easily without being recognized.
Allegiances: Edan
Player's online availability : Pretty much whenever I'm awake. *Shrugs*
Registered: Aug 5, 2018 12:12:12 GMT -8
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Post by Deidra Nofaló on Jul 28, 2019 15:37:24 GMT -8
Deidra knew she shouldn't laugh- it seemed like quite the harrowing experience that the poor woman had gone through. But the irony of the situation... She couldn't help the giggles that started erupting from her, in the middle of her tale. By the time, she'd finished she was covering her mouth as she hugged her middle, giggles wracking her frame.
"I-I'm sorry t-that happened to you." Deidra started trying quite valiantly to speak as she finished her piece, taking deep breaths for her composure. She sniffled a bit as she wiped under her eye. "Forgive me for the giggles... the irony of the situation wasn't lost on me. I'll make sure that no one brings you any fish when we get to my home. We do try to accommodate our visitors tastes as best as we can. So knowing you have a distaste for fish is extremely helpful."She said as she smiled at the other woman.
"Who was this we if you don't mind me asking? Did you travel with people before settling into politics as you did?"
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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 29, 2019 11:33:48 GMT -8
“Go ahead,” Naoki waves her on, grinning. “If I didn’t want you to laugh, I wouldn’t have told the story.”
Chuckling to herself, Naoki smirks, pleased for having made Deidralaugh.
After they’ve recomposed themselves, Naoki responds. “... Yes, I suppose I did ‘travel with people.’ That’s a very polite way to put it, thank you.” She nods in jesting thanks.
“But I wasn’t quite mature at that point," she continues, "and I didn’t necessarily have any particular location to return to after traveling.”
“I was a vagrant,” Naoki spells outright. “And the fish was stolen from a fishmonger. It certainly isn't among the best parts of my life, but at this point, it’s so long ago that it's essentially irrelevant. I hardly remember it, even.” The tone of her voice suggests that Naoki isn't ashamed or remorseful per se, but it also isn’t some she’s proud of. She doesn't advertise the fact, certainly.
Returning to the first question: “But ‘who is we?’ …” Trailing off, Naoki sighs.
“It's a long story.” she says, “The short version of which is such that there once was someone I traveled with, but who I do not travel with any longer.”
“Not out of want, but by circumstance..." she hesitantly elaborates. “They don’t function anymore. They haven’t died, per se, but to go much further here would be to launch into the specifics of my past, and indeed, I think there are more currently relevant things we could discuss right now.”
As such, Naoki leaves the metaphorical door open for Deidra to steer the conversation. If she’d like to press that’s fine, but Naoki isn’t so rude as to launch into an expository monologue unprompted.
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