Regent Homura Hizashi
Established
Roleplay posts: 47
Age: 48
Physical Description: Tall and with inquisitive brown eyes. Sports a small chin beard and a moustache.
Clothes and Equipment: Usually wears whatever garment fits the given situation, but is always immaculately dressed.
Allegiances: Tawakoshi
Registered: Dec 19, 2017 5:42:49 GMT -8
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Post by Regent Homura Hizashi on Aug 7, 2018 6:18:18 GMT -8
Homura narrowed his eyes witnessing the events unfolding. "This is highly unbecoming for a feast - declarations of independence and murder to start off the feast? What kind of savages are these people?" Homura whispered upset to Kiri regretting his gift and kind words to the duke. Only a strong assertion of willpower kept the Tawakoshi regent from leaving the table immediately and departing for Tawakoshi - but it seemed that many among the table applauded the outcome and and 'show'. For sure there would be serious considerations as to how open Tawakoshi would be with foreigners after witnessing this - and Homura had a hard time seeing how any trade or diplomatic relations til Audria could be established after this. After all the duke and duchess had just proved how little they cared for loyalty and diplomacy.
Homura couldn't contain himself no more. "What is the meaning of this!" Homura said and stood up and looked sternly at the duke and duchess. Such things are unbecoming of a feast that prides itself in celebrating peace and prosperity. Killing a defenseless man to start off the feast? Is this the kind of diplomacy we should expect when dealing with Audria in the future?" Homura asked with a frown.
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Lady Kiri Hizashi
Established
Roleplay posts: 41
Age: 32
Physical Description: A minor princess of the royal line, now married to the Lord Regent of Tawakoshi, Kiri carries herself with immaculate deportment and manners. A flowing robe, grace and humility, an aikuchi dagger in the back of her obi.
Allegiances: Tawakoshi
Registered: Dec 19, 2017 6:13:17 GMT -8
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Post by Lady Kiri Hizashi on Aug 7, 2018 12:40:49 GMT -8
Once her gifts were received by the duke and duchess, and she herself graciously received the duchess’s compliments, Kiri seated herself gingerly at the long table. While chairs were not unknown in Tawakoshi, they only existed as mere novelty items and were hardly ever used. It all seemed most odd to her to be seated so far from the floor, and wearing kimono was not entirely comfortable in the straight backed chairs, but she hoped she carried herself with decorum enough that no one noticed her unease with the furniture.
She was feeling pleased to have made the acquaintance of Shintaro and Hotaru, especially as Lord Shintaro expressed an interest in visiting Tawakoshi. She also believed that her gifts had gone down well with Audrians, and that the banquet generally was progressing well.
From overheard conversation, coupled with the snippets of information that Lord Akagi had given her, she ascertained that the lady kitsune, or – whatever type of foreign yokai she might be – was Empress Naoki of Isra – another woman who wielded great power over this side of the globe. Kiri had earmarked Naoki for her next person to attempt to engage in conversation, and as such made sure to pick a seat near enough that they could converse.
However, before she was able to give more than a nod and smile in greeting to the Empress, the duke and duchess began their introductions. The opening speech about forging bonds, and peace between nations was pleasant to hear. To be here at a time when Tawakoshi was opening up to the world, in the presence of other leaders, under a banner of peace and prosperity – of course it appealed to Kiri, and made her glad that she and Homura had made the not inconsiderable effort of attending. She did not understand who or what the Brotherhood were, but listened regardless, watching to see if anyone made any reaction to this that would give her a clue, but not gaining much from it.
The talk about a college for the youth of the world made Kiri’s mind jump instantly to her two children. Would Masanori learn useful tools of statesmanship if he would study abroad, that he could bring back to inform his rule as Regent after Homura? Would Miya find a foreign education helpful to not only secure a worthy prince to marry – perhaps the offspring of Hotaru and Shintaro would be an option – but also to advance her own cause once in a foreign court. Were there any wise teachers that they could send from Tawakoshi to spread their enlightened ways to others?
She was rather caught up in this dream of a golden future, to the point that the power grab and sudden assassination made her jolt involuntarily. How ghastly! How immensely gauche and barbaric to kill your overlord in front of an audience! To do it behind closed doors in complete secrecy was the only civilised way. Moreover, it chilled her to hear such words of peace followed by such a display of barbarism. How could they take such words at face value when followed by a murder? Besides, what purpose did it serve? Were the Audrians merely trying to make sure that the world at large favoured their claim for independence? Did they wish the world to unite in war against the “Vessian Empire” whoever they were. She felt as though they had been manipulated into becoming involved with some politics that had no notion of, and her countenance seemed to pale, her eyes darken, and a stillness settle on her. She was busy staring at Lord Shintaro's wife for her frankly bizarre reaction of applause when she noticed Homura trying to catch her attention. She met his eyes and nodded slowly. “I will not take hospitality at the scene of a murder,” she replied in an equal whisper.
When Homura stood, she stood with him, only a fraction behind. “Tawakoshi would be pleased to open a dialogue of diplomacy with any of you honoured nobles gathered here,” she said, her eyes passing over the foreign nobility who had come to the feast – the Isran delegation, the Aozorans, the Taingaarders, and others, “but we will not do so at the table of those who speak of peace and prosperity with one mouth and deal death and betrayal with the other.” Her eyes locked upon the duke and duchess, demanding an explanation.
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Erik Haldar
Established
Roleplay posts: 36
Age: 59
Physical Description: Scarred from battle and with long white hair and beard Erik is marked by life, and his old body is still still very much fit and ready for battle.
Clothes and Equipment: Gold and gems aren't his way of showing off power. Instead you will see him carrying his prized masterwork sword and runed iron ring, the latter which symbolizes the ultimate power in Taingaard. He often wears a fur cape that extends down to his heels, but also adorns himself in plate armor when travelling outside the city walls.
Registered: Jul 9, 2018 12:38:29 GMT -8
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Post by Erik Haldar on Aug 7, 2018 23:23:01 GMT -8
"How intriguing." Erik said with an indifferent tone of voice hearing Iulia's explanation of the empress' supposed origins and the gold coin as well as being told the fact, that the empress was seeking an heir. This meant little to Erik though he would still like to speak to the empress - if nothing else to see if she represented herself a little better than this official did. He did however take note that Isra had many different races and though he had nothing against that he thought that remembering one's cultural past must be a lot more difficult with so many different minds around.
Erik took a deep sigh, he almost couldn't be bothered telling Iulia about Taingaard because there were so many much more important people around he would have to tell the same story all evening - and hopefully with a little bit of enthusiasm left. However he couldn't just turn her down. "Well, Taingaard is..." he went as he was promptly interrupted by the bell and thus turned his attention to what the duke and duchess had to say. Nodding a bit he thought their words sounded quite nice though of course such words need to be backed with actual action for them to mean anything thus he didn't put too much into it.
But as they suddenly declared independence and things started escalating Erik leaned back and crossed his arms clearly uneasy about where this lead - and it seemed his worries were justified. Erik didn't know who he was, what he had done or why he was executed in front of all the world leaders, but he recognized a threat when he saw one. Maybe not a direct threat against the dinner guests here as much as a threat towards their enemies, but Erik couldn't help but thinking why they would put their dinner guests in such an uncomfortable position and make them wonder if the message was directed at them too.
However the Tawakoshi pair seemed to have been properly offended by the act and Erik couldn't help but admire them a little for standing up for it even though he wasn't about to leave himself unless there was immediate danger to himself or Freya - the trip had been too damn long. But clapping politely? He couldn't really get himself to do that and even the food that was now served interested him little at this moment.
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Freya Haldar
Established
Roleplay posts: 15
Age: 23
Physical Description: Freya is a tall druid woman and Taingaardian woman standing 1.80 m tall with visible strength to her body. She has a fair complexion and wine red hair that curls down to her elbows and some of her locks have been braided. She has brown eyes, though they turn yellow whenever she channels her animalistic powers.
Clothes and Equipment: Freya wears a hybrid leather and chain mail armor along with her druid amulet around her neck. She has a rune inscribed sword at her left and often carries a bow and arrows on her back.
Registered: Jul 9, 2018 13:09:42 GMT -8
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Post by Freya Haldar on Aug 8, 2018 9:29:16 GMT -8
Freya smirked. Gatherings like this were perhaps the best the Audrian pair could do but she herself and her father still forged those bonds in battle. As a matter of fact she'd prefer to see these people in battle instead of here where they had every option to hide their true motives and didn't have to invest anything. A battle carved a man or a women to their souls and in the end she had a hard time forming a bond to anyone who had never left their shell to at least do something out of the ordinary whether it be battle or just normal adventure.
As the bell rang her attention diverted towards the Audrian couple - how did they intend to start off this banquet? Or rather how did you start off a banquet? Freya had never really tried a social gathering quite like this and she was curious to see how this part of the world - who in many people's mind were among the most culturally civilized - would handle such an undertaking. As much as she loved her home Taingaard its culture probably didn't cater to everyone and feasts could be quite shouty.
But as the speech progressed she felt increasingly unnerved by the duke's demeanor and the guards' attitudes and as they mercilessly killed the man in the name of independence Freya quickly turned towards her father. What did he think of this? No words were spoken, but he was clearly disapproving of this and as was Freya, however she was first and foremost shocked that such a thing happened at a banquet. She looked around and saw that everyone was shocked by this and felt relieved that at least this wasn't considered 'normal' by the other guests. Then suddenly the Tawakoshi regent and his wife stood up - if they left would it be wise for her and Erik to leave too? She gave Erik a sidelong glance but he seemed to follow what happened to intensely to sense Freya right now.
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Iulia Iotapa
Committed
Roleplay posts: 75
Age: 31
Physical Description: Iulia is a shorter woman of a trim and very fit build. She has medium-length brown hair, practically styled out of the way in a tight braid. Appearance-wise, Iulia is on the plain side of average.
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Clothes and Equipment: Iulia is never seen without a hat or other head covering of some sort. These tend towards practical and are extremely modest in style. Her usual headgear wardrobe rotates between a maroon beret with a small star insignia, or a black Breton cap. Iulia’s Isran Guard uniform consists of a standard tunic, jacket, crossbelt, and boots, but has a long skirt in place of the regular trousers. When not in uniform, Iulia tends towards long, dark-colored, and well fitted dresses.
As jewelry and other pieces of finery tend to get in the way of the more physical aspects of her work, Iulia tends to go without accessories of any sort when working. Her hands, well worn and scarred from boxing, are covered by gloves whenever appropriate. She possess a weighty and intricate pocket watch, a gift from her father.
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Allegiances: The Isran Empire
Player's online availability : as needed
Registered: Jun 28, 2018 8:07:17 GMT -8
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Post by Iulia Iotapa on Aug 12, 2018 8:01:51 GMT -8
Iulia worked her face into a neutral expression, it was clear that Haldar was not interested in speaking with her further.
Some deep, dark, small part of Iulia's mind welcomed the sudden and brutal murder at the head table. Things hadn't been going well for her mission as a diplomat at this feast. It was one thing to deal with lower level bureaucrats and ambassadors. Actually living it up with heads of state was exhausting and confusing. So much self importance and aggrandizement in one place. Still, her brief interactions at the feast so far had been awkward at best. A few moments taken to compose herself had the Foreign Service agent back in fighting form.
The Empress was fine, her quips showed that the killing of Ulrich had not put a damper on the High Lady’s spirits. Iulia looked at Naoki as she swirled the wine in her glass in lazy circles. All was well.
Her mind turned to the logistical question Naoki posed. With less than half of a half smile to Haldar, Iulia excuses herself move and sit to the left of her Empress.
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King Konrad I von Audria
Committed
Roleplay posts: 61
Age: 38
Physical Description: Tall, strong, and stern, the Hochmeister embodies all that a knight should be physically capable of. He has a clean-cut, stern face, with wide dark blue eyes, a sharp jaw, and short dark hair. He's taller than most individuals throughout Vessex, and rivals the Asgeirian Varan in terms of strength and posture. He's certainly an intimidating man.
Registered: Aug 6, 2015 13:14:16 GMT -8
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Post by King Konrad I von Audria on Aug 26, 2018 6:51:07 GMT -8
“A shame, really,” Konrad replied to Naoki. "Ulrich was a fine man. He was the first to ascend the walls during the Siege of Switz, during the Swavian Rebellions." He withheld further sentiments on the matter for the moment and proceeded to answer the Lady’s other questions. “The Brothers, as faithful as they are, are an extension of the Emperor’s power. By dissolving their order I have stripped the Emperor and his lackeys of their foreign agents, and have abstained myself an of armed Imperial force in my new Kingdom. They have served their purpose well, but their time has come to an end. The Kingdom of Audria will be protected by a professional, modernized, state-funded military led by officers chosen by education, merit, and experience.”
As far as the execution of Ulrich van der Steinlund, King Konrad and Queen Audrey certainly expected some kind of outcry. And it came from Homura Hizashi and his wife, Kiri Hizashi. “The politicking of the Empire,” he replied calmly, “can appear overly assertive to foreigners. Elector Ulrich van der Steinlund is the Margrave of the Stonelands, and is able to muster the largest fighting force in the Empire - save the Emperor, of course.”
Queen Audrey then spoke up in support of her husband. “He was an Imperial informant sent here by the Emperor himself. He has exercised his authority to investigate Audrian activity, the strength of our defenses, and the composition of our military. His presence here confirmed our fears of a preemptive strike.”
Konrad shrugged in the Tawakoshi Regents’ direction. “He who does not strike first will be the first struck. It was only a matter of time. And let us not forget the formalities of Imperial law! The Margraveship of Steinlund is elective! It will take some time yet before a new margrave is elected, thus delaying the mustering of such a large force. I will have more time to assemble my own forces and organize a proper defense. The armies of the Empire do not always march for the Emperor - they march for their lords.”
With that explanation out of the way Audrey went on to enjoy her meal. Konrad would have hoped that the other world leaders could stomach such a scene and proceed to eat themselves - but it did not seem so. Some of them, perhaps all of them, were shaken, perhaps worried. An offer of assurance would be needed.
“Maybe something less… dramatic would have been more to your liking?” he asked. “Do not fret. You have done me no wrong, you are in no danger.” Konrad motioned towards the door, “you’re free to leave unmolested if you so wish. But it would be a shame to see the food go to waste - so please, take it with you, or give it to someone less fortunate.”
King Konrad would wait until those who wanted to leave left, and they would be allowed to leave without question. Once they left (and only after they left) he would continue.
“If there is anything that anyone would like to say, suggest, or recommend… now is the time. I, for one, propose peace, friendship, prosperity, and trade between our nations. And when necessary, the joint cooperation of our military forces to combat evildoers.”
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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 Aug 26, 2018 8:57:40 GMT -8
“Ah,” The Empress responds knowingly, “a professional army. I have one of those.”
“They take a long time to set up,” she adds, before starting into a bit of bread as Konrad addresses others. He goes on to confirm what she suspected—that he’s doing this and banking on the Vessian armies getting bogged down in bureaucracy. In the time before they arrive, Konrad hopes to build an army of his own and solidify relations with these nations present at the feast. That way, when the Vessian armies do roll around, he will be strong, with allies.
His plan is good, she thinks. As is the food.
The conduct, however, is disgusting—the others are right. To kill a man in such a circumstance, it is cude, barbaric, and unbecoming of what would call itself polite society. Unfortunately, much of the world is the same way.
“What do you intend to do,” she asks, looking Konrad square in the eye, “if Imperial forces turn up sooner than you anticipate?”
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Regent Homura Hizashi
Established
Roleplay posts: 47
Age: 48
Physical Description: Tall and with inquisitive brown eyes. Sports a small chin beard and a moustache.
Clothes and Equipment: Usually wears whatever garment fits the given situation, but is always immaculately dressed.
Allegiances: Tawakoshi
Registered: Dec 19, 2017 5:42:49 GMT -8
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Post by Regent Homura Hizashi on Aug 27, 2018 10:34:55 GMT -8
Homura listened to the Duke's explanation though it changed nothing. The fact was still that they had murdered a defenseless man - and done it publicly - as was customary in the more barbaric nations. "I concur." Homura said to Kiri and looked at the guests around the table. "Tawakoshi is open to trade with you all and we are more than happy to meet you under more... 'agreeable' circumstances than this mess." Homura said before turning to the duke.
"Tawakoshi will however have no relations with Audria under the current leadership. You talk of peace and start a war - it's preposterous and we will have nothing to do with this henceforth. If you ever wish to apologize for this madness, send back the sword I gave you and we will consider taking up talks again. If not, use it for whatever bloody means you have planned." he said and turned his head towards the exit the food untouched and the Tawakoshi entourage that much wiser. They would take their leave from Audria immediately.
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Lady Kiri Hizashi
Established
Roleplay posts: 41
Age: 32
Physical Description: A minor princess of the royal line, now married to the Lord Regent of Tawakoshi, Kiri carries herself with immaculate deportment and manners. A flowing robe, grace and humility, an aikuchi dagger in the back of her obi.
Allegiances: Tawakoshi
Registered: Dec 19, 2017 6:13:17 GMT -8
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Post by Lady Kiri Hizashi on Aug 27, 2018 12:16:38 GMT -8
Kiri watched tight-lipped as she listened to Duke Konrad’s explanation, her disbelief growing stronger with every word. To advocate a pre-emptive strike before being struck, and then to claim that the guests were in no danger having done no wrong. It was madness to expect them to stay here and listen to such twisted nonsense. It reminded her uncomfortably of their former Shogun, and she found herself becoming angry, that they had been brought here as accessories to some uprising, that they had been taken advantage of, and then have to listen to this senseless idiocy from the mouth of the barbarian claiming himself a king. Two pink spots of colour formed on her cheeks, but aside from that and the stiffness of her features, she gave no sign of this emotion.
After Homura had proclaimed that they were leaving, she gave a bow to Empress Naoki, Tain Erik and his daughter, and Lord Shintaro. Should they wish to, any of them would be welcome to see how hospitality was given to guests properly in Tawakoshi. For now there was nothing more to say, Homura had spoken for them both, and she turned with a swish of her elaborate robes and followed her husband out of the banqueting hall.
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Erik Haldar
Established
Roleplay posts: 36
Age: 59
Physical Description: Scarred from battle and with long white hair and beard Erik is marked by life, and his old body is still still very much fit and ready for battle.
Clothes and Equipment: Gold and gems aren't his way of showing off power. Instead you will see him carrying his prized masterwork sword and runed iron ring, the latter which symbolizes the ultimate power in Taingaard. He often wears a fur cape that extends down to his heels, but also adorns himself in plate armor when travelling outside the city walls.
Registered: Jul 9, 2018 12:38:29 GMT -8
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Post by Erik Haldar on Aug 28, 2018 7:39:25 GMT -8
The Tawakoshi par seemed to have made up their minds and not much seemed able to persuade them otherwise - not that Konrad had done a very good job at that to start with. Murdering someone at a feast for peace and branding it a pre-emptive strike was probably more humor than they could take. Erik himself had been wondering whether to worry or laugh the thing off, but instead he simply started feasting as was the original idea of this banquet. Some had to remove all this so they dish from Taingaard could arrive and people could taste what they had to offer.
He listened halfway to Naoki's question to Konrad. "There's one who's out trying to get allies, huh?" Erik said muted and softly poked Freya with his elbow while chewing the meat. To him it was clear the the empress was an opportunistic lady and saw a possibility in protecting Audria in case of a quick retribution. Erik however had no stake in this and kept out of the discussion - for now.
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Freya Haldar
Established
Roleplay posts: 15
Age: 23
Physical Description: Freya is a tall druid woman and Taingaardian woman standing 1.80 m tall with visible strength to her body. She has a fair complexion and wine red hair that curls down to her elbows and some of her locks have been braided. She has brown eyes, though they turn yellow whenever she channels her animalistic powers.
Clothes and Equipment: Freya wears a hybrid leather and chain mail armor along with her druid amulet around her neck. She has a rune inscribed sword at her left and often carries a bow and arrows on her back.
Registered: Jul 9, 2018 13:09:42 GMT -8
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Post by Freya Haldar on Aug 28, 2018 8:21:55 GMT -8
"Are we... staying or leaving?" She asked her father, though his demeanor - and the fact that he had now started to eat - indicated that they were in fact staying. Probably hoping the banquet to develop in a more peaceful direction. Freya felt the poke from Erik as she too had heard what had been spoken about, however she didn't feel comfortable talking behind other peoples backs - and especially not when sitting this close. Freya knew how much a pair of animal ears could hear and sometimes it was as if Erik only heard himself. Also her father had clearly been rude to the diplomat he had had a brief conversation with - typical him. Now Freya had to smooth it out somehow.
Freya leaned slightly over the table and tried to get the attention of @iuliaiotopa. "I haven't frequented many banquets here in this part of the world, but... Do they expect you to retain your appetite after this?" she asked with a half smile, though despite her jest it was still grossing her out.
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Iulia Iotapa
Committed
Roleplay posts: 75
Age: 31
Physical Description: Iulia is a shorter woman of a trim and very fit build. She has medium-length brown hair, practically styled out of the way in a tight braid. Appearance-wise, Iulia is on the plain side of average.
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Clothes and Equipment: Iulia is never seen without a hat or other head covering of some sort. These tend towards practical and are extremely modest in style. Her usual headgear wardrobe rotates between a maroon beret with a small star insignia, or a black Breton cap. Iulia’s Isran Guard uniform consists of a standard tunic, jacket, crossbelt, and boots, but has a long skirt in place of the regular trousers. When not in uniform, Iulia tends towards long, dark-colored, and well fitted dresses.
As jewelry and other pieces of finery tend to get in the way of the more physical aspects of her work, Iulia tends to go without accessories of any sort when working. Her hands, well worn and scarred from boxing, are covered by gloves whenever appropriate. She possess a weighty and intricate pocket watch, a gift from her father.
=========================
Allegiances: The Isran Empire
Player's online availability : as needed
Registered: Jun 28, 2018 8:07:17 GMT -8
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Post by Iulia Iotapa on Aug 29, 2018 16:06:02 GMT -8
The Foreign Service Agent smiled thinly at Freya, giving a gentle shrug. "I haven't the foggiest. I expect different traditions and customs when traveling, but this takes the prize for the most violent pre-dinner show I have ever seen." Iulia turned her full attention to the much taller woman sitting opposite her. Another member of the Taingaard delegation, she mused. "Iulia Iotapa, a pleasure to meet you." The agent delicately cut off a slice of quail meat, bringing it to her mouth and chewing thoughtfully. It was cooked to utter perfection. The wine paired spectacularly with the meat, despite not being her preferred sort. "Murder is a bit rough for an aperitif, unlike this wine. How do you prefer to start your evening soirees in Taingaard?"
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King Konrad I von Audria
Committed
Roleplay posts: 61
Age: 38
Physical Description: Tall, strong, and stern, the Hochmeister embodies all that a knight should be physically capable of. He has a clean-cut, stern face, with wide dark blue eyes, a sharp jaw, and short dark hair. He's taller than most individuals throughout Vessex, and rivals the Asgeirian Varan in terms of strength and posture. He's certainly an intimidating man.
Registered: Aug 6, 2015 13:14:16 GMT -8
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Post by King Konrad I von Audria on Sept 2, 2018 11:16:30 GMT -8
Homura and Kiri were allowed to leave the hall uncontested, and would be allowed to leave the city without protest. Konrad was disappointed at the turnout of the Tawakoshi regent, but it made it clear that they were not allies.
“As you said,” Konrad replied to Naoki, turning to her after the Tawakoshians left, “professional armies take a long time to set up. We’ve already recruited, drilled, trained, and organized a standing army - although it is small, it’s also sufficient. Should the Empire attack us, we will be ready.”
Queen Audrey would look in the direction of the Taingaardians and comment “this food tastes excellent! Can you tell me more about your homeland?”
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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 Sept 2, 2018 12:04:17 GMT -8
“Mmmh.” Empress Naoki murmurs acknowledgment of what Konrad said but doesn’t seem convinced. “Small” and “sufficient” don’t belong in the same sentence. Her heart goes out to Queen Audrey.
But in any case, the meaning behind her question seems to have gone over his head. After sampling the wine, Empress Naoki decides to approach from another angle.
“What sort of economic reliance did you have on Vessia?” she asks Konrad. “These must be interesting times to be a merchant in Salem. Will your people be denied luxuries they’ve come to take for granted?”
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King Konrad I von Audria
Committed
Roleplay posts: 61
Age: 38
Physical Description: Tall, strong, and stern, the Hochmeister embodies all that a knight should be physically capable of. He has a clean-cut, stern face, with wide dark blue eyes, a sharp jaw, and short dark hair. He's taller than most individuals throughout Vessex, and rivals the Asgeirian Varan in terms of strength and posture. He's certainly an intimidating man.
Registered: Aug 6, 2015 13:14:16 GMT -8
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Post by King Konrad I von Audria on Sept 22, 2018 4:58:50 GMT -8
Konrad takes a moment to absorb the Lady's remarks, sipping his wine in the process. "Aye, the standing army is small. It is a new one after all, and I want to make sure they are well-trained, disciplined, and combat-ready. We're not mustering unwilling men and women into the armed forces like days gone. Our warriors are there by choice. Judging by our predecessors," referring to the Brotherhood, "this is a progressive route. And regardless of their size, we are confident they are more than capable of defending the country." Konrad was silent for a moment and then reiterated with "small and sufficient."
"As far as economic reliance," he continued, "the Eastern March has an abundance of natural resources and potential. This is just one of many reasons the Empire values our country. Up until now most of our exports were sent almost exclusively to Vessia - and not at rates that benefit my people as much as they should. With any luck," Konrad motioned at the guests around the table, "our exports will find new trade routes. And at more profitable rates set by Audrians, and not the Vessians half a world away."
"So to answer your question," he finished, "my people will only be denied their luxuries if you deny them rights to trade."
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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 Sept 24, 2018 14:42:53 GMT -8
The Empress smiles slightly and nods along with Konrad, murmuring acknowledgment when he’s finished.
He sits here, and he goes on about how his military is small, his lands are rich, and how his city is already geared to export. He may as well be asking outright.
“The states of Isra enjoy very favorable trading arrangements,” The Empress says, making eye contact. “Audria would benefit by becoming one of them.”
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King Konrad I von Audria
Committed
Roleplay posts: 61
Age: 38
Physical Description: Tall, strong, and stern, the Hochmeister embodies all that a knight should be physically capable of. He has a clean-cut, stern face, with wide dark blue eyes, a sharp jaw, and short dark hair. He's taller than most individuals throughout Vessex, and rivals the Asgeirian Varan in terms of strength and posture. He's certainly an intimidating man.
Registered: Aug 6, 2015 13:14:16 GMT -8
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Post by King Konrad I von Audria on Sept 29, 2018 6:50:15 GMT -8
"Perfect," Konrad says, almost before Naoki is even finished speaking! He sounds quite relieved at her reply. "Expect a surge of new merchants in your lands, then, Empress. And please, let your own traders know that my borders are open to them." This was good news for Konrad - it would bring additional wealth into his new country, and hopefully improve relations between himself and Naoki.
"That aside," he continued, "I'll bring up another request. A victory is twice itself when the army returns with full numbers. But alas, casualties are always a guarantee - and few commanders in history can claim a flawless victory. While I am confident that my army can withstand any assault the Empire may throw at us, it would be foolish not to seek potential allies. But then, I don't suppose your own soldiers envy the thought of dying in a foreign country, to a foe who has done nothing to them, and for an ally who does not benefit them."
Konrad shrugged and took another bite of his food and a swig of his drink. "But we're always ready to accept help."
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Iulia Iotapa
Committed
Roleplay posts: 75
Age: 31
Physical Description: Iulia is a shorter woman of a trim and very fit build. She has medium-length brown hair, practically styled out of the way in a tight braid. Appearance-wise, Iulia is on the plain side of average.
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Clothes and Equipment: Iulia is never seen without a hat or other head covering of some sort. These tend towards practical and are extremely modest in style. Her usual headgear wardrobe rotates between a maroon beret with a small star insignia, or a black Breton cap. Iulia’s Isran Guard uniform consists of a standard tunic, jacket, crossbelt, and boots, but has a long skirt in place of the regular trousers. When not in uniform, Iulia tends towards long, dark-colored, and well fitted dresses.
As jewelry and other pieces of finery tend to get in the way of the more physical aspects of her work, Iulia tends to go without accessories of any sort when working. Her hands, well worn and scarred from boxing, are covered by gloves whenever appropriate. She possess a weighty and intricate pocket watch, a gift from her father.
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Allegiances: The Isran Empire
Player's online availability : as needed
Registered: Jun 28, 2018 8:07:17 GMT -8
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Post by Iulia Iotapa on Sept 29, 2018 8:06:40 GMT -8
The murders having stopped for the time being, Iulia settles contentedly back in her seat to eat and watch the conversation bouncing back and forth between Empress Naoki and Konrad. It wasn’t so much a game of cat and mouse as it was tiger and grasshopper. Iulia made the mistake of trying to take a drink as Konrad replied to Naoki’s comment about becoming one of Isra’s client states. Her surprised gasp aspirates the small sip of cider instantly. She holds back the full force of her spluttering and casts about in a panic for a serviette. Did the king really just agree to…
Did the Empress just buy out Audria…?Without giving much thought to speaking out of turn, Iulia stares incredulously at the Empress and croaks out an “Excuse me?” before succumbing to another round of coughing.
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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 Sept 29, 2018 9:08:58 GMT -8
The Empress blinks. He must be hard of hearing.
“Konrad,” she says, taking care to enunciate clearly, “I am suggesting that you swear fealty to me and that Audria join The Isran Empire.”
“If Vessia then decides to send an army to its death attacking a state of Isra,” she shrugs impudently, “We will oblige them.”
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King Konrad I von Audria
Committed
Roleplay posts: 61
Age: 38
Physical Description: Tall, strong, and stern, the Hochmeister embodies all that a knight should be physically capable of. He has a clean-cut, stern face, with wide dark blue eyes, a sharp jaw, and short dark hair. He's taller than most individuals throughout Vessex, and rivals the Asgeirian Varan in terms of strength and posture. He's certainly an intimidating man.
Registered: Aug 6, 2015 13:14:16 GMT -8
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Post by King Konrad I von Audria on Sept 29, 2018 10:55:36 GMT -8
Konrad was moving his spoon up towards his mouth as Naoki explained what she was suggesting, and as Iulia coughed up her drink. He paused and then lowered the spoon back down. "Hm?" he replied curiously. "I must have misheard you. Too much time in the thick of battle can kill a man's ears," he explained. "I did not establish my kingship just to give it up so soon." Konrad laughed at the situation. "No, Empress, I am only agreeing to an official trade agreement."
Konrad looked at Naoki for a few seconds before nodding and finishing, "this is still acceptable, no?"
Queen Audrey looked over at Iulia, "would you like something else to drink, dear?"
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