Ritterheim - The Duchy of Audria

When the clock struck the twentieth hour an order was given to ring the bells at Ritterheim. It was the signal for the VIPs to report to the great fortress of Salem. It was also a signal for fireworks to be ignited, and the skies were illuminated with enchanting displays of fire and flame. A great drawbridge was lowered and allowed suchs guests as Naoki, Crovan, Iulia, Homura, and others.

Entering through the main gate the guests would pass by a courtyard. This area was lavishly decorated with colorful gardens, bushes, trees, statues, and fountains. A white-stone pathway directed the visitors throughout the courtyard. Knights of the Black Cross, adorned in ornate ceremonial armor, stood sentry throughout the locale, with flowing white capes.

Should one turn right they would see a great chapel built of white marble, and at the top a great black cross. Opposite the chapel, on the other side of the courtyard, was what appeared to be a barracks and armory.

Ritterheim itself rose before all in attendance - gates, ramparts, towers, and spires. It was a newly-built fortification, and so certainly looked ‘cleaner’ and modern than other castles. Great flags waved proudly in the nightly breeze, carrying the sigil of the Brotherhood and Vessia itself.

Proceeding through the main gate the party would enter into a great hall, with tables and chairs expanding the length of it. At the head of this room was an elevated spot where Duke Konrad IV and Duchess Audrey stood, ready to receive the guests. They waited for the arrivals to take a seat.

Along with their nicely dressed servants and a handful of samurai with polished swords and armor Tawakoshi regent Homura Hizashi entered the dining hall of Ritterheim with his wife the beautiful Kiri Hizashi at his side and dressed in his finest silk haori while carrying one of the finest blades Tawakoshi had ever seen, the gold ornamented katana "Kiyoshi" that had been crafted to him when he had ascended the throne. Fashioned by the three finest sword smiths in Xuandao and presented to him at his inauguration this was a piece to be shown at special occasions and the amount of gold itself would likely be worth many farms. 

The fireworks and beautiful castle had certainly impressed Homura and left him in a buoyant mood as he entered the dining hall seeing that they were among the first. 
"Stand off." Homura commanded the samurai who would bow and retreat to the walls where they would be discretely looking out for the well being of the lord and lady. Quickly Homura caught the eye of someone who in visage could have been from Tawakoshi and immediately headed there to great him. Was he from Katashima? His information he had been presented with most recently still told of civil war and uprising all over the place. 

Homura looked at Shintaro with a faint smile and gave a respectful nod towards him and his wife. 
"I am Homura Hizashi regent of Tawakoshi and this is my beloved wife Kiri Hizashi." he said but was curious as to who this was. "I am hesitant to ask you from where you hail, because I fear I should know. Surely Katashima has not solved its problems yet?" Homura asked and hoped to get a couple of names too. 

After having greeted Shintaro and his wife he would proceed over to the Duke and Duchess to whom he bowed and smiled. 
"Duke and Duchess. I am the regent of Tawakoshi, Homura Hizashi, and this is my beautiful wife Kiri Hizashi. We are very pleased to visit your marvelous castle and city and being able to attend this banquet." he said and grinned. "And the fireworks were deeply impressive." he said as he gave one of the servants a sidelong glance. Immediately the servant brought forward an elongated chest fashioned from the finest wood and lacquered and polished to shine. Placing the box on the floor before the duke the servant would carefully open the chest and the duke would see a katana laying in the box lined with red velvet. 

"For the Duke I present to you a sword I had fashioned for this very occasion by the very same sword smiths that made my own." he said and touched his own sword. "Duke Konrad IV von Marschburg is the name I have had engraved into it's blade in our language on one side and your on the other side. As a symbol of unity and peace." Homura explained as his servant carefully took it out and halfway unsheathed the sword for the duke to see before the servant - taking great caution again - put the sword back into the box and closed. it. Unless the duke wanted to inspect it more closely his servants would probably want to handle the box so he could enjoy it later. 

A small voice bounces these words around the back of Iulia’s mind. Years and years ago, when her father still believed that forcing her to attend etiquette classes would help form her into the ‘right sort of young lady’, someone had suggested that Iulia had a certain exaggerated pace. The word they used, flounced, sounded so harsh and demeaning.

This pronouncement had so shaken young Iulia’s mental image of herself that she turned to practicing a soft, measured walk. The added benefits included sneaking up on just about anyone, something far more useful than carrying books on her head or not spilling pitchers of rose water. It was this walk that the Foreign Service officer used to slide up the several steps to the courtyard and towards the hall beyond. Naoki had gone straight in without a word, just the merest nod of her head and two gestures.

There was the matter that Iulia was severely outranked by everyone in attendance. This bothered her little, but she wondered slightly if her presence would cause any issues with the other guests. Hopefully not. She had been invited purposefully, as had everyone else.

Around the edge of the courtyard, knights stood in gleaming rows. In the very background of the scene, wait staff went about their various duties with minorly harried airs. Being more behind the scene was what Iulia did at home. If she could get a moment to meet a few of the staff, she would be sure to ask them about their work and glean any potential insights that they might offer. Snubbing a doorman or rudely demanding something from someone’s supposed ‘inferior’ was the perfect way to become immortalized as a first-rate git, no matter how much political power or influence the person in question might have.

Iulia smiles to a guard closest to the door leading right into the hall. Naoki had made her way through there a few minutes prior. Best to take just a bit longer before going in herself, Iulia thought. Most of the other guests who had come together seemed to be regulated, married, or some other close relationship.

She tugs at her beret slightly, setting it lower over her forehead and tucking in a few stray strands of hair. She would sit opposite Naoki, several seats down so as to not be directly across from the Empress. That way she could see and hear Naoki, but not be awkwardly involved in her conversations.

Her mentor, Josef Zemp, would have taken a moment to smoke and make some wry comments disguised as advice. Fortunately, Iulia did not share his slightly disgusting pipeweed habit. And unfortunately, she was alone. Speaking aloud would be a touch odd, and she really had nothing to say.

So in she walked.


And she did not.

"Konbanwa. I'm Shintaro Nishida, this is my wife Hotaru." Shintaro greets the Hizashi pair with a bow, Hotaru mimicking his greeting. "Yes, I come from Katashima originally. I left during the civil war to found a new nation on the southern end of this continent. How are things going in Tawakoshi these days? I haven't heard anything about it since I've come to the mainland. " 

Freya would enter next to her father Erik as they approached the duke and duchess. As opposed to her father, Freya had spend a little more time getting her hair done and putting on festive clothes than standing in the kitchen arguing about the dinner. Thus she was clad in a green dress with golden linings and her hair braided into one long braid extending down to her shoulder blades and flower wreath in her hair. Various silvery Taingaardian rings, necklaces and ear rings she wore too and her natural beauty was really on display and proved a stark contrast to her everyday practical leather armor and pants.

"We are very pleased to be here, duke and duchess. You have really made it feel very special!" Freya complimented their hosts as she followed Erik to the table. Freya would take a seat next to her father as was customary in Taingaard. This would place Freya not too far from Naoki, and she noticed her ears wondering if it was too rude to ask if she was some kind of shape shifter too - and if she had just forgotten her to revert her ears. She smiled to herself but decided against doing anything that foolish. For all she knew this one could be the leader of a very influential nation so you had to be careful with one's conversation topics. 

Erik looked at Iulia and raised a single eyebrow in mild surprise. So she wasn't a regent like the others?
"Isra you say?" Erik said and stroked his beard casually. For Erik institutions like a "foreign service" and jobs like "diplomats" were something he had little to no knowledge about, in Taingaard the days were far simpler than that. However he had been exposed to bureaucrats a few times without growing fond feelings.

"They say wisdom is lost on bureaucrats as it is archived under "W"." Erik said with a faint smile, waiting to see if humor was going under "H" or if she was able to get the joke.

Erik took the hand and shook it quickly to be friendly.
"Mmh... Very painless." Erik answered relatively politely, though this form of small talk had little meaning to Erik. "Only two seats seem to have been assigned, and they look as the best two to me." Erik commented sarcastically but with a slightly more muted voice glancing up at the small podium where the assigned chairs for the duke and duchess stood.

"So, Iulia Iotapa... Who is the regent of your country then? And please do tell me a bit about him... or her." Erik asked in a bid to change the subject and inform himself a bit.

Erik looked in Naoki's direction noticing that she seemed to come alone.
"Does Empress Naoki rule alone?" Erik asked. "And what should I know about her family? Is it an influential clan in Isra?" he added.

"Well I'm not rude if I can avoid it." he said with a strained smile. "But yes please, I would like to speak with her. However I would prefer a little bit of food and drink first to set the right mood." Erik said and nodded to Iulia indicating it would best to do that later.

“Quite prescient for you to ask that particular question, it so happens that the Empress is currently in search of an heir. She has no true blood family, no real clan or tribe. Empress Naoki is herself without much attention paid to where she came from, or who her family might have been.”

Coins jingle together softly as Iulia sifts through one of her several pockets. Out comes a large gold piece, emblazoned with a stylized sun of the imperial crest on the obverse, and the face of Empress Naoki on the reverse. Iulia slides it, sun side up, for Haldar to view. It is a pleasantly weighty coin, the features are stamped evenly onto the metallic surface.

“The first recorded mention of Naoki in Isra is in the business charter for an establishment known as The Midnight Sun. Our gold piece displays a sun emblem this side, here. Some believe that the emblem of our Empire pays homage to Naoki’s more humble beginnings at the Sun. Political power and influence came quickly to Naoki, eventually securing her current position of Empress. I would not call it a rags to riches story, but the comparison is apt enough.”

The rich smell of food has slowly worked its way through the hall. Tantalizing undercurrents snake between chairs and over tables, carrying the promises of imminent nourishment. Iulia’s mouth waters slightly. She had yet to eat today. How unfortunate was it that bodily functions like hunger too often interrupted the more interesting things of life.

“Isra is far and away better off for having Empress Naoki in command. My own people have benefitted from several of her initiatives throughout the years. Our country has so many different races and peoples, yet we see little to know animosity between differing groups within our cities. I give large credit to the Empress’ leadership and influence. But enough about our land! Tell me of Taingaard. How did your country come about? History has always been a fascination of mine.”

The great hall of Ritterheim was decorated lavishly; elaborate chandeliers hung from the vaulted ceilings; marble columns were decorated with romanticized reimaginings of Angelist saints and heroes; royal red rugs lined the walkways, and crimson curtains covered the windows and entrances to the other halls and rooms. The tables were made of the finest wood, and the cushioned chairs were fit for the royal attendants. Shiny silverware, plates, and glasses had been assembled with the utmost caution by the servant girls.

The few guards who stood within the hall were more for ceremony than anything else, carrying ceremonial weapons, save for a pair who wielded crossbows. The virgin servant girls were dressed in silky white dresses, and looked attentive - ready to serve the guests in some manner if they were approached.

One of the guests was a nobleman from Vessia. He entered along with a scribe. Both were dressed in dark, royal clothing - with the scribe wearing a set of glasses and carrying a book, an ink, and a quill. When time permitted the scribe quickly scribbled notes in his tome. The scribe’s lord - Ulrich van der Steinlund - slowly paced the room and observed the attendants of the party.

---

Warlord Shintaro Nishida

Konrad appears stoic, yet open as he receives the visitors. Shintaro Nishida and his wife, Hotaru are the first to approach them. “You are most welcome,” Konrad replies, his voice soft but rugged. He was a tall, imposing man with a bald head and dark blue eyes; his presence gave off an air of intimidation.

“And,” Lady Audrey chirped up, her voice sweet and lovely, “we thank you for the gifts.” Two servant girls fetch the jugs of Cattle Bug nectar before transporting it to another room in the castle.

Konrad motioned at the tables that lay within the great hall, “please, take a seat and prepare for the coming meal.”

---

Regent Homura Hizashi

“Hold there,” one of the Knight-Brothers prevents Homura and his retinue from entering Ritterheim. “You and your lady are permitted entry, but your warriors and escort must remain outside.” Despite their fascination with the appearance of the men’s armor and weapons, the Brothers were strictly ordered not to allow any armed guards or similar within the castle. Although once they saw some servants carrying a gift bow, one continued “the servants carrying the box may enter, but once the gift is delivered they must retreat outside the castle.”

Assuming Homura complies...

“Well met, Homura,” Konrad greets these foreigners with profound interest. “I am glad you decided to take the journey, it means a lot to my people and I.” Upon seeing the gift which Homura has brought Konrad appears impressed - which rarely happens. “I am without words,” he finally says as he observes the elegant blade. “The gift is most appreciated, as is its purpose. I can only hope to match your generosity and thoughtfulness in the future.” Konrad orders the gift box to be seated nearby his throne at the head of the hall.

Once Kiri presents her own gifts, Lady Audrey appears equally impressed as Konrad was at the sword. “How intricate!” she exclaims, barely able to contain her joy and curiosity. “It would be my pleasure to receive such gifts!” Lady Audrey begins to plan where to display the beautiful art pieces, and has her own servants transport the fine crafts to another room of the castle.

“And I must compliment your robe,” Audrey also says, referring to her kimono. “How… elaborate and beautiful!”

---

Erik Haldar

“We are most pleased with your arrival,” Lady Audrey assures, Erik and Freya. “And moreso with the food and drink you have brought. Our chefs have arranged for it to be served during the main feast, and we are eager to try it.”

“Welcome to Audria,” Konrad finishes, “please, take a seat and prepare for the feast!”

These Taingaardians remind the Duke and Duchess of the Varan from Asgeir, and being close allies with those northmen they feel quite comfortable around the nords.

---

Once the main assembly had entered the great hall of Ritterheim an order was given to close the main doors. As the guests found seats of their choosing and discussed amongst themselves Duke Konrad and Duchess Audrey took position at the head of the room, standing before their thrones. Ulrich van der Steinlund took his seat at the far-end of the assembled tables, along with his scribe. He appeared to observe the event, as opposed to actually attending it.

Ding!

The sound of a ringing bell would catch the attention of those in attendance. The chit-chat would die down, and the room grew quiet; all attention was directed at the lord and lady of Audria.

Konrad began to speak and his voice boomed across the great hall. “The Duchy’s finest chefs have prepared a splendid meal for our guests, and the Taingaardians have provided their own additions as well.” The Duke gave a thankful nod towards Erik. “But before the feast begins… we will have words.” Lady Audrey seemed to take this as a que and sat in her throne.

“First, I must formally thank you all for attending the First Audrian Banquet. I do not have the words to express my gratitude. It represents your willingness to accept peace, friendship, diplomacy, and cooperation with the Audrians. The Varan of Asgeir believe the strongest bonds are forged in the heat of battle; this is true, but for lords and ladies such as ourselves, who wish to avoid battle, gatherings such as this is the best we can do.

“I would like to extend my hand… an offer of guaranteed peace to each of you. And above that, an alliance of nations. The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing. So may we all stand together in this world - a bastion of peace and order against the tides of darkness and chaos. Trade, prosperity, peace, order, and justice… this is the world Audria wants to build with each of you.

“That said… I have a few announcements to make. The first… is the absolution of the Brotherhood.” Konrad was silent for a moment as he lets the words sink in. Ulrich van der Steinlund appeared appalled, but did not speak. “I hereby declare that all Knight-Brothers are relieved of their duties, vows, and oaths. It will take time to spread this message and ensure an order dedicated to the Faith is peacefully eradicated.” So far, only the Knight-Brothers in Audria were aware of this move; each member, however, would be generously compensated for his service.

“Second, I would like to inform you all of the Vorstuga College - a state-funded university preparing to open in the city of Vorstuga. I encourage intellectuals from all across the Overworld to volunteer as teachers - and I invite the youth of the world to attend as students. Let us enlighten the world with our brightest minds.

“And finally…” As if on que, the pair of knight-brothers wielding crossbows prepared bolts on their weapons; they did it in such a discreet move, however, that few of the guests would notice them. “The Duchy of Audria declares independence from the Vessian Empire. I proclaim myself King Konrad I of Audria, and my wife as Queen Audrey I. I ask that you recognize my state as the Kingdom of Audria - no longer shackled by the bonds of the Vessian Emperor.”

“An OUTRAGE!” cried Ulrich van der Steinlund. His chair screeched upon the floor of the hall as he jumped up from his seat. “An elector does not have the power to secede from the Empire! This is an illegal action and-”

“Still your tongue lest we cut it from your mouth,” the King threatened. “I’d prefer you speak clearly when you bring the news to your Emperor.”

“This is a rebellion!  You declare war on the Empire with this move!” Ulrich continued to holler, “you and your people - your allies will pay for this insurrection, Konrad!”

By this point the two crossbow-wielding knights had approached the Vessian elector and threatened to shoot him. “Come with us, Count Ulrich,” they demanded. “We have orders to kill you if you resist.”

“Keep your damn hands off of me - and lower those crossbows! You are Knights of the Black Cross! Your allegiance is to the Emperor, not to this pretender king! In the name of God - in the name of the Emperor - in the name of the Church - I demand you arrest-!”

Shrikt-shrikt!

Ulrich’s outburst was cut short as two crossbow bolts were shot through both eye sockets. His body fell limp and he choked on his last breath as he collapsed onto the ground. The knights did not hesitate to grab the man’s body and drag him away to another room; it was almost expected…  Some servant girls quickly removed the patch of rug which was stained with blood and carried it off to the same room....

“And now we feast!” Queen Audrey proclaimed.

A curtain lifted, revealing a band, and banquet music began to play.

Servant girls pushed carts filled with roasted pork, fresh bread, strawberries, pottage, nuts cheese, and other juicy and succulent choices! They paraded around and served the food in equal measure to each and every guest. Other servants came with various wines and beverages, offering each patron their preferred choice. The Taingaardian addition was also served - by their own servants if provided, but otherwise served by Audrian virgins.

The scribe - who so far was to stunned to make a move - eventually jumped up and ran towards the door; after struggling to open them, a knight assisted him, and he was allowed to leave.  His message to the Emperor was quite obvious.

It was at this time that KING Konrad and QUEEN Audrey sat at a table level with everyone else.