Golden Leaf Ball

Châteaux des Fleurs, Noveaux
24th of Octide

          The leaves had turned to brilliant shades of gold, the reds and oranges as well. This was the Empress’ favorite time of the year at the Chateau des Fleurs which sat some ways outside of Auvon. Preparations had been going on for nearly a month throughout the nation for the culmination of the Harvest Festival on this night. At the Chateau itself they would be hosting the Harvest Ball in honor of the Festival. Already invitations had been dispatched nearly a month prior though some had to be rescinded due to the outbreak of war between Alssahra and Sach’aqa who Noveaux now found itself at odds with as well, on behalf of the former. The situation hung in the background of the festival and indeed it seemed to dampen the national spirit it a bit though the people were taking it in stride. Protests had been mounted every day since the Declarations’ passing on the 13th outside the Imperistarium building in Auvon along with in most of the Realm Capitals throughout the country. While small they were quite vocal and many politicians continued to express deep reservations about the intervention, but the Empress knew that the moment everything paid off in Alssahra that they would be the first take the credit. That’s what being a good politician was after all.

          Indeed, this was to be the Empress’ last Harvest Ball as Sovereign of Noveaux, her announcement to abdicate the throne came on the fifteenth of the month. While siting her differences about the war and her inability to effectively lead the nation at the time was sufficient to sway most of the public’s opinion into accepting her abdication the true reason was health related and only four people besides herself knew of that. The woman was in a flurry of excitement as the leaders of the various realms began to arrive. A brief Council of State was going to be held in the afternoon to discuss the various situations facing the country at present, this was to be followed by the arrival of the guests for the Harvest Ball. Several foreign nations had already responded positively to the invitations, every ambassador in Noveaux was also invited to the event, while it was not the largest such thing held during the year it was the Empress’ favorite by far, simply because it was to be a Masquerade.

          Satine made her way through the Estate’s various rooms finally coming to where the council was going to be held, making sure the placards were well placed and that everything was perfect as they began to arrive. She welcomed each as they took their assigned seat, all were ready for the ball considering their attire was ornate and fitting of their stations in life. When the Grand-Divine arrived in her clerical clothing everyone stood and bowed respectfully as she was the leader of their Faith. In addition to leading the Divine Faith, Hesperine also was the ruler of the Realm of Val Calais, who’s capital of Calien also served as the seat for the Faith. Every new Grand-Divine ruled from Calien and subsequently ruled the realm of Val Calais, it had been the way things were done for a thousand years and by the mercy of the gods would continue for another thousand. Finally, once they had all arrived the Conference was underway and continued without relatively any issue for the duration. At the end the Empress departed the room to go out on to the terraced garden where the Golden Leaf Ball was being held. Along with the Foreign Minister, her eldest son, and the Chancellor of the Imperistarium she awaited the arrival of the other guests.

          As the Empress waited to greet the arrivals, the various Realm Lords departed to the Terraced Garden and began mingling with other high profile and well known figures from throughout Noveaux. Legendary Novean actress Dianna Calvier was mingling with the young Queen of Mitan, Hyperia. Madam Calvier as she was known acted for nearly thirty years during what has been called the Golden Age of Cinema in Noveaux from the forties to the seventies. She was still the life of any party even in her advanced age, the stories she could tell about indiscretions between her and others, secrets of the trade or otherwise interesting things that had happened during her time in Baradeaux were things that people today loved to listen too. A small group had formed around the elder actress listening to such stories about how she once seduced an unnamed prince and how they spent some time on the Holiday Islands off Noveaux’s coast. Such gossip always interested a crowd. Meanwhile the young Queen of Mitan, Hyperia listened intently and picked up subtle hints here and there in the woman’s speech that if put together told another story of heartbreak and how the whole thing wasn’t as flippant as Madam Calvier was giving it off to be, perhaps this Prince actually had the woman’s heart at one time and the way society was kept them from ever fulfilling their dreams to be together.

          Elsewhere the Republican Lords as they had become known for their Realm’s all being Republics mingled among themselves and with some of the older Imperistarium members. Three of Noveaux’s eighteen realms were outright Republics with a couple being bastard hybrids. The three standing here though were Lucius Venatori, the Hegemon of Balenos near the Akarus border, next to him in the middle of the group was the Doge of Eltore, Nemius Thyri, which was close to the border with Boredomo, finally to the right was the Grand Prince of Ferelda, Caden Allistrom. The Republican Lords generally hung around with other Republican minded politicians from other realms or from the Imperistarium. They also had a decent reputation of being close to the Corporate entities such as the new CEO of du Veer International, Sebastien. He was in a nice tuxedo with a black bowtie standing with the group of Republican Lords though as the music began to be played, he escorted his sister Alice out onto the dance floor kicking off the evening’s festivities by encouraging others to begin dancing as well.

          On two sides of the large terrace there were long tables with white sheets over them that held food and drinks. Various delicacies from around Noveaux and some dishes from foreign states that were there to help others adjust such as the Ambassadors or foreign leaders. Vintage wines, champagnes and other drinks were on ice throughout the arrangement and nice glasses were being carried around by waiters. At one of the tables another gaggle of people were chatting among themselves, this gaggle happened to include the Queen Darmatus, Morrigan Aldcourt along with the Queens of Epheria and Olevia along with the Kings of Calpheon and Sovia. This group were rather tight knit and had some of the lesser nobility with them as well. The group would be nearly impenetrable to an outsider though as they chose to remain where they were even as the music began to be played by the orchestra.

          Mingling with a couple foreign Ambassadors though was the Crown Prince Maxus Remanti, eldest of the Empress’ children and heir to the Kingdom of Auvantoria. His sister Alessandra and her husband Galio Grangewald of St.Resia were also present with two of their own children. In fact, many members of the Imperial Family were present even though they rarely gathered like this, the Prince Edward and the young Princes Alphonse and Andrew however were in Alssahra fighting in the war there. The internal politicking of the Imperial Family was renown throughout the nation and likely the nearby areas for being rather brutal, but it was a way of life that could potentially forge the next ruler of Noveaux. Any guests were going to be welcomed by the Empress, Foreign Minister and several others before actually joining the rest on the terraced garden. The view was spectacular with mountains to the north and beautiful forest covered hills all around the estate proper. The only thing left to do for the Noveans is to await the arrival of their guests. 

---

Hey guys import OOC Info now:

You are allowed to send 6 guests but each has a +1 so a total of 12 people from your nation are allowed.

Bodyguards in the Ball are limited to 1 but only and I do mean ONLY if it is a Head of State or Government. Otherwise all guards wait outside the main estate proper. 

Posts in this thread MUST MUST MUST be a minimum of two paragraphs please. This is to push RPers and to ensure that things are happening.

Please DO NOT post invitation acceptances here. This is where you post your arrival to the estate. All foreigners will fly into Aurelia International Airport a few kilometers outside my capital and then be escorted in motorcades to the Estate from there. Also body guards are only allowed to carry an approved pistol if they enter the Ball. Bodyguards remaining outside the estate however may carry one pistol only as well since all security for the event is being provided for by the Novean Military Police and Imperial Guard. 

Any other questions please TG me or find me in the Regional Chat Room

Standing on a balcony perched on a fancy hotel in which the nonfreesonian delegation stood a single woman. The slowly Setting Sun illuminated her olive skin and her dark curly hair. The sunlight glistened off her silk bathrobe that was wrapped tightly around her forum. The calming silence filling the area was only ended when the wrinkles of a fresh cigarette being slowly pulled out of some wrinkled wrapping then having the end struck repeatedly to pack the tobacco. The woman slowly brought the cigarette up to her lips before igniting it with torch lighter and taking in a large huff. Abigail sky didn't want to be here. She never asked to become the spouse of the leader of our nation. This was never in her plan. Her silent moment of self-reflection came to a sudden end as a voice came echoing out from the hotel room she was sharing with her fiance


“ ow dammit” the inescapable voice of her fiance Patrick vexa called out


“Sir if you would just let me…” a third much deeper voice tough and rough with age replied calmly


“ Smith I don't need help shaving I'm not 13 anymore” griffin replied annoyed


“ very right sir… but you will be representing our nation and your father's Legacy. Perhaps you should just let a professional do it” the gruff voice of Griffins butler Smith replied at the sound of Steel against the leather wrong out through the room as a more professional shave was applied to the new chairman.

Abigail sighed once again taking another long huff of her cigarette waiting for her finance to emerge.
When he finally did, rubbing his hand against his face feeling just how smooth the professional shave could get it. She sighed “ did he wipe your ass to?” flicking the butt of her cigarette off the balcony and into the streets below.


Griffin gave her a disapproving look “ don't do that. This isn't like back home, they take that shit very seriously, it's not just a disapproving look from your neighbors”


“ oh I'm so sorry. Is that not how the wife of the chairman is supposed to act? Or you just going to introduce me as Professor Sky, someone you just had to bring along to meet the empress and a bunch of other foreign dignitaries so she could make a fool out of her shy ass!” she replied angrily walking into their shared bedroom and slamming the balcony door


“ look I know you don't want to be here but this is essential to get diplomatic relations going smoothly.” he sad walking over and trying to offer her a hug. Once she flatly refused by pushing her away


“ it's not about the ball Griffin. God damnit it's it's not about the stupid ball. It's about everything else. It's about the plans we made before this all went to hell. Whatever happened to us taking up positions at the University like we were offered? Being professors? Having fun? Then starting a family in a few years?! Staying the hell out of the crazy world that your parents inhabited!? What the hell happened to all those plans that we had ?! “ she replied starting to break down tears causing her makeup to stream.

Griffin offered her another hug this one she accepted as the two embraced “ shhh shh... you know I couldn't say no to the board of directors. No one can. I didn't plan on this either. I never wanted to succeed my father. “ he replied softly feeling her head down into his shoulders




“ i know….i know” she choked out “ it's just I'm scared. What happened to your parents…. How long until it happens to us? People feared your mother, people loved your father, yet look how they both ended up. Your mother was in charge of the Liquidators. Your father was the chairman for god sakes. And both of them had…. accidents” the tears began to slow down slightly “ oh God Griffin how are we going to survive? We're trying to step into the shoes of giants”


Griffin held her. It was true he was scared. If someone could take down his father what hope did he have? But he couldn't think about that right now. Or at least not show how scared he was. He kept his calm composure letting her cry it out “ don't worry I have a plan. If we can just get through this night and get a free trade agreement into the works” he said sounded so confident. Even if he was lying to her she couldn't tell it all.


“...o...ok” she said sniffling one last time “ ill...go get changed” she said walking into the bathroom slipping out of her bathrobe before she went in.




Griffin looked down at the bed at his own outfit for tonight. A black tuxedo tailored to a micrometer. The only distinguishing feature on its clean Sleek design was the flag of his Nation in the form of a pin on his lapel.

The sound of the door opening behind him caused him to turn around and a smile to crawl across his face as he viewed his fiance and her dress. Black evening dress with intricate spider webbing patterns following it threw out. It was surrounded by a red lacing. And the dress had a slit in it so that one leg could be exposed. It's cutting allowed it to look elegant while the same time giving its wearer a sexy figure “... am I supposed to look as pretty as the empress? “ Abigail replied sarcastically


“ no… you're supposed to outshine her.” He said reaching into his bag and pulling out heavy golden necklace with an incredibly intricate pattern of diamonds rubies and sapphires in the pattern of a heart on the front flanked by other precious gems


Her eyes lit up, the history major in her already knew what it was but her amazement still lit up across her face “ that's the heart of nonfreesonia…” she said is statically. This ancient artifact had been assumed lost in their Civil War. It was always worn by the sitting Queen and on one occasion the lover of a particular King who had a vindictive Vendetta against his wife.


Patrick walked around her smiling slowly placing the heavy gold chain on her neck. “ my dad kept a few pieces of the Imperial treasury after the war. Not all of it had to go into rebuilding the nation” Griffin said quietly before kissing her cheek, before having smith help him get on his tuxedo.


Soon after a loud knock came from the door. Smith was quick to answer it and outside their door stood two women in their late sixties. The first one dressed in a very highly decorative Naval Admirals dress unifrom. The second one wore an elegant white dress. Both seem too much more in their element and more prepared to go.
“ auntie Victoria “ Griffin said happily pinning on his lapel


“ the motorcade is ready I suggest you….” she had a brief pause at the site of what had been the National Treasure of the royal government before shaking herself back to reality “...come with us”
The two nodded following her to the elevator and down to their motorcade. The drive over to the Palace was silent as the two elderly women were extremely excited to finally be going to a royal ball for the first time since the fall of the empire. Far too excited to talk only staring happily into each other's eyes. And of course the two former professors now the first family of a Nation we're too nervous to speak only staring out the window at the impressive complex that they were driving up on


Griffin looked out the widow at the approaching manner. He heard the heavy brakes slamming against the wheels bring the car to a stop. The door was open for him at all for his guests walked out. They were escorted to the back where they came face-to-face with the empress.

The Chairman extended his hand showing that they were equals “ your highness its so good to see you” he said smiling

JEM, leader of Aethelia, decided quickly to accept this offer, but took far longer to prepare. Though first impressions are terrifying, this was a chance to see yet another foreign culture, and a learning experience should never be denied.

The first cultural difference was particularly confusing... a "+1"? Is this how other countries do this, or just Noveaux? How is one supposed to choose just one among their many partners? It doesn't feel right to play favorites, all of one's partners should be equal. It must just be because it would be too crowded if they all came. Perhaps just whoever wants to come the most will be the "+1" then.

Appearances are also important, supposedly, therefore clearly only the most bright and colorful dress would do. Every color of the rainbow would be included, starting with red at the bottom, moving up to orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple at the top. Finally, as any good dress should have one's chosen symbol on it, a detailed and blue-tinted moon was etched on the dress over her heart. JEM's volunteer "+1", Sorsha, chose a similar dress, but with her symbol, a Silver Dragon.

Preparations ready, it was time to go. The anxiety was lessened by the beautiful surroundings. Compared to the relatively flat fields of Aethelia, this mountains and forests were exciting. Or foreboding. One of those. But surely it would be fine, this nation has a female leader, so there is less reason to be afraid here. Still, have to think about what to say while being transported in one of these "motorcades"...

Finally JEM and Sorsha had arrived. Nervous, but eager both to meet this Empress, learn more about Noveaux culture, and get to that tasty food that she could sense from outside, JEM greeted the Empress: "Hi! I am JEM, of Aethelia. I thank you for the invitation to this event and look forward to learning more about you, your people, and this land."

There was silence in the vehicle as two of the greatest figures in Eraphalia sat in silence, staring at each other. The woman, dressed in fine material and a beauty, was in the midst of sighing. One may question why such a situation is being played out, but for any seasoned veteran of the shenanigans that the Director of Eraphalia tends to pull off, one will quickly feel pity for the woman and her husband, the Vice Director of Eraphalia. It was not a hidden secret in Eraphalia that the Director is a strange man and that comprehending him may prove difficult for some. Many, in response to this, shrug and simply place the issue on the fact the Director is one of the brightest men on the planet and that truly understanding him would cause people to go mad.

"Vice Director Hamson," the Director closed his eyes as he relaxed against the finely made seats, "you have to understand the intricacies of the pudding to even grasp the concepts of what a pudding is. Many intellectuals will look at pudding and state 'that's a pudding,' but that is wrong. You see Dr. Hamson, pudding is an unique food that is gel-like and is liked by children, but it goes beyond that. By grasping what the pudding is, we can realize the potential of pudding and harness the general within the pudding for the good of Eraphalia."

At this point, Vice Director Hamson was inches away from burying his face with his hands in frustration. Taking deep breathes, the relatively young politician bit his lower lips as he glared at the Director. People like to shower the Director with praises and worship him as some God-given saint that will lead Eraphalia into a golden era, but no one knew who the Director is unless you work with him intimately. As the Vice Director, Dr. Hamson has a very clear image of who the Director is. Certainly he is sharp, certainly he is clever, and certainly he is strange. But, you don't know the Director until your phone starts to ring for three hours past midnight, all of said phone calls from the Director. And what did the Director want? Some national emergency? God forbid that! No, the Director had Dr. Hamson call a local pizzeria and order a delivery.

"Why do you have to be so infuriating?" Dr. Hamson breathed out as he managed to calm his nerves.

"My dear fellow," the Director stroked his beard as he stared at the ceiling of the vehicle, "I do not comprehend what you mean by infuriating? Per chance have you fallen in love with me? I'll remind you that I have a wife and I am certainly not interested in young men! Though if you are up to the task, I do know so-"

The Director paused with his sentences, realizing that Dr. Hamson was ready to snap at any moment. The deadly stare and the clenching of the fists gave it away, far too clear. 

"Ah," the Director sighed as he nodded to Dr. Hamson's wife, "You truly have a fine specimen as your mate. And now, as much as I want to continue poking at you, Dr Hamson, it appears we have arrived to our destination. Let us go in and greet the finest of all creatures on this given planet. Come my young charge and his lovely wife, we must seek friendship."

Griffin bowed his head as he shook the hand of the queen. Is delegation bowed with him. With the Admiral and her wife offering a more official currency as opposed to the straight bow provided by the head of state and his fiance.
" your highness may I introduce to you professor sky a trusted advisor and friend. With me is Admiral Victoria Silver and her wife Rebecca silver. We our humble guests here and thank you for the invitation. "

The group return to their upwards positions and moved out of the way. Griffin looked back at the two delegations that had followed recognizing one as the vice director of and director of eraphalia. They were major trading partners and had just signed a free trade agreement between the two Nations.

In front of the two he noticed another leader of an unknown delegation. Well he was unaware of what nation they had a ride from it certainly couldn't Hertz to become acquainted and plant the seeds of what could become a fruitful free trade Arrangement between the two Nations

Carlo Pinotti looked out the window, admiring the outside walls of the Chateau des Fleurs, just as his car was parking at the entrance. It had been a smooth ride from the airport to the palace, and an even smoother flight from Messelia to Auvon. This had been a last minute trip, assigned to him only because his two immediate superiors, Marco Valerio and Grazia Marelli, were otherwise engaged. They greatly valued the friendship with Noveaux, that much was clear, but prior engagements could not be broken, and so it came upon him, the Assistant Councillor for Western Continent Affairs, to extend the well wishes of Sartoria and ensure the night ended on a high note for both host and guest. Things were going well so far, his reception at the airport having followed protocol in a way few countries did. He was favourably surprised. His official vehicle was quite elegant, the security officer very kind and the diver more than capable. He had talked with an aide on the way to the palace, remarking how everything was just the way it should be.

Carlo stepped out of the car, once the security officer opened the door, and buttoned his dinner jacket, taking a quick look around, as if examining his surroundings, before following the path to the inside of the palace. There he saw the Empress, busy greeting every new arrival, and he admired her for that. To have been on the throne for so long, to have dedicated her entire life to the service of her nation, and to still have the strength and vitality to host an event like this, to stand at the entrance and greet every guest. She was an incredible woman, and admirable leader, and he had no doubt now, an amazing host. He approached her, waiting for her to finish greeting the latest guest, and then gently bowed, a sign of respect.

"Your Imperial Majesty. Carlo Pinotti, Assistant Councillor for Western Continent Affairs. On behalf of His Highness Prince Patrizio, First Councillor Marco Valerio and the People of Sartoria, I come to convey our best wishes to yourself and Noveaux, and to strengthen the friendship between our peoples."

There was much to be discussed with regards to the relationship, that was natural in any interaction between nations, between officials, but for now, for this particular moment, protocol was important, and so he focused on conveying those good wishes, the hope that all that would thereafter be discussed would be done in the context of a bilateral friendship, of a relationship between equal nations with good faith towards each other. He then looked to the side, at the inside of the palace, and prepared to enter.

Chateaux des Fleurs, Noveaux
Interaction: Empress Satine to the Leaders of Aethelia, Nonfreesonia, Eraphalia and Sartoria

          Satine was notified by an attendant that their first foreign guest was arriving momentarily. She was quickly briefed about who it was and a couple small facts about the nation they called home. Not all those in attendance were well known to Noveaux let alone the woman that had led the United Realms the last sixty years, this was another opportunity to meet them and begin the process of establishing long lasting relationships. The woman that was approaching was wearing, in the Empress’ opinion, a rather stunning dress that held all the colors arrayed upon it from head to toe. It was something that Satine could appreciate even if she wouldn’t be caught dead in it herself. Different cultures had different important things and for these people color and symbology seemed to be paramount.  As one of the young women introduced herself as JEM of Aethelia, Satine smiled and shook her hand before politely bowing her head out of respect though she needn’t do so as the host of the Ball. “A pleasure to meet you, while I am the Empress of Noveaux you may just call me Satine” She said before going down the small line and introducing the High Chancellor and a few other notables that were standing beside her to greet the guests.  While the actual first guests to arrive was the Chairman of Nonfreesonia he had been engaged briefly by the young CEO of du Veer International, Sebastien.

          “Chairman!” Sebastien called out quickly and briskly approaching the Chairman of Nonfreesonia. Sebastien’s company had some lucrative deals with the corporate state and those entities within. While they weren’t DVIs largest market they were certainly one that garnered attention at such a function like this. “It’s a wonder to see you here.” He continued, “After you are greeted come with me, I’ve got some Lords you should meet.” He added motioning to where many of the Republican Lords were standing in a group together chatting, likely about business deals or about the extravagance of the ball.

          Once the whole thing was done with Sebastien, Satine then had the opportunity to greet the Chairman and his guest. “A pleasure to see you again Mr. Chairman.” She said smiling before shaking his hand. “I’m Satine Remanti, a pleasure to meet you madame,” Satine said turning her attention to the woman with the Chairman. She believed it to have been rude to simply inquire to the Chairman about who she was since the woman was standing right there after all. “I do indeed hope you all enjoy this evening’s festivities and such.” Satine said before introducing the other important officials by her side.

          Some other Novean figures entered and were subsequently greeted by the Empress. She was informed that the Eraphalian delegation had arrived. She seemed to perk up upon hearing the news and trained her eyes to where they would be coming from. A rather devilish smile broke out on her face when she noticed that the Director would be joining the Vice-Director and his wife in attendance tonight. The woman not only had deep respect for the man that had led Eraphalia for the last forty years but also some devilish pity now for all those in attendance that didn’t know the man like she did. He was interesting to say the least, easily someone found annoying and quite frankly the amusement she would be getting out of his being here was arguably the best gift someone could have given her today. Puffing up just a bit and fixing her dress a tad, Satine put on a genuine beaming smile and greeted the Director first, “An absolute pleasure to see you came.” She said before turning her attention to the Vice-Director and his wife, “Madame you look divine this night and sir it is a great pleasure that both you and your wife could attend.” She said before turning back to the Director.

          After the introductions there she proceeded to greet the Sartorian delegation. “Councillor Pinotti, thank you for making this trip.” She said having already been informed as to the situation with his two superiors needing to be elsewhere this night. Not everyone could spare an evening away from their nation’s and that was something Satine understood quite well and never took offense too. Fortunately, Ambassadors from most nations were also present to help make up the representation of foreign nations. “I assure you that your presence here speaks volumes of the respect between our nations, Assitant Councillor.” Satine said with a smile taking a small break and getting some champagne since there appeared to not be any more guests needing to be greeted. 

Griffin smiled at the invitation of Sebastian. " thank you, ill join you over there momentarily. " he said nodded


Abigail look today her shyness crippling her ability to interact with the Empress of a Forigen State, breathing a sigh of relief from the empress walked away " griffin....im going to go get a drink" she wispered. And walked over to a wall clinging to it as she slowly made her way to the bar and signs she tried to order a drink what was continually drowned out by the people around her.

Victoria and her wife quickly walked over to mingle amongst the more noble people in attendance.

Griffin watch this party split up and well he wanted to go over and comfort his fiance he realized that he had to play leader first and lovers second. He moved over to the area Sebastian had been pointing to I'm big and introduced himself as the chairman of nonfreesonia to the republicans " I'm looking forward to more economic cooperation between our Nations"

Griffin specifically approached Sébastien, " I can see why you would think I would get along with these people. They're a lot more like The Men Who Run the government back in my own country. Honestly if some of these women were citizens of my nation they would be offered spots on the executive board. Although from what I hear you are in the running for being in charge of your own nation? Is that true? You want to be the emperor?"

Shalendra Fenrora, #5 Manager of International Affairs, arrived late, to late for her comfort in fact. She was dressed in a long dress that she felt was a bit too silver and sparkly but didn't question it, as she trusted the decisions of her fashion adviser. The dress was sleeveless but long grey gloves covered her hands and forearms. Her hair was done up in some strange bouncy ponytail that she felt must be some form of modern art. Her lips were shiny with gloss and makeup covered the few imperfections that her face had. Truth was in another country she could've become a model, but in Oscad that career didn't even exist. Her skin was pale and her hair was a light brown.
Shalendra was unique in that she was quite un-discriminatory in nature unlike most of her fellow Oscadans, which is why she had been chosen to represent Oscad instead of any of the other managers. She stepped out of her car, high heels tapping the ground lightly and looked around. She immediately saw the golds and reds of the leaves that surrounded her. Oscad being mostly home to evergreens, this strange change of color to the usual green found on trees in Oscad captivated and slightly amused her. She continued into the Chateaux de Fleurs and was quite overwhelmed with how many people were gathered there. She was new to the international scene and so recognized no one among the people. Behind her however was her escort, not a guard, just someone to keep her company. He had the flag of Oscad on the lapel of his jacket and on an armband which he wore on his left arm. Hopefully someone would recognize the flag and approach her, as she did not want to spend the event in total ignorance of who everyone was. Shalendra and her escort continued into the Chateaux, hoping that it would be a welcome break from the war as much as it was a chance to meet other international leaders.

Zhulis had been getting nervous. He may be a president- and a well-respected one at that, but he felt awful about leaving his dear friend Satine waiting. As his car pulled up to the ball, he could see it was already very much started. After he had checked in, he made his way over to the Empress Satine. This wasn't the first time he had been to a celebration such as this, but he definitely was feeling the importance of this one. Being the last one that the empress would be, well, the empress, it was obvious this had to go well. Regardless, this was a jovial event. The Sekian president caught up to the empress and gave her a warm greeting.

"Hello, Satine! Its wonderful to see you again. This is such an amazing setup you've got tonight."
He smiled, excited to loosen up for a night and talk among the guests, especially those he didn't quite know.