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Silver Light Ball

Clarien Castle, Familial Estate of House Bast
Saint Claire du Velle, Mitan, Noveaux

"Are you sure that you want them to attend?" Olivier asked the Chancellor. The topic of the chancellor's family had come up considering their opposition to his position in the government, his politics and indeed to the young Sovereign's election. Sigmar von Lohen was the black sheep of his family by a long shot, his nephew the young Kozig (King) of Altannen was quite vocal about wanting to disown his uncle and strip him of his surname. It was no small matter as special dispensation had to be granted by the Sovereign and as of yet that had not occurred. Olivier was the host of this year's Silver Light Ball and as such could simply not invite the Kozig of Altannen but that would be politically difficult. Olivier would if the Chancellor so believed that his nephew would cause trouble at the event.

"It would be improper to not invite him. We both know what he would do if he was told he could not attend. That he wasn't 'welcome' here." Sigmar said with a bit of a exasperated look on his face. The situation wasn't favorable as he really didn't want his nephew there stirring up dissent among the High Nobility and Realm Royalty. He, like his father, had a knack for letting trouble find him. The von Lohens had been nearly toppled following the fall of the Novean National State in 1949 and the restoration of the Imperial Administration. They had been willing collaborators with the Nationalists and had been the only House of the High Nobility not to flee the country in 1942 with the Emperor. They had nearly been exiled in 1949 but the Emperor had simply stripped them of half their lands and wealth making them nearly collapse in the 1970s during the national financial crisis. They had however survived while some of the older and more prestigious houses had collapsed. They somehow knew how to worm their way through events and come out stronger against all expectations. That feat however made them plenty of enemies throughout the central and western realms.

Magnus IV von Lohen was the young Kozig of Altannen and had been the only challenger against the young Ascendant Evander Atlas for the sovereign election several days prior to the Ball. The wounding of his pride from losing so thoroughly to minor had driven him to rant against the Imperial Monarchy, the centralizing of authority in Noveaux and the peaceful stance the nation took on the world stage. "Might as well invite the brat, I'm sure he's already planned to attend anyways." Sigmar said letting out a small sigh as he took a sip of the tea. It was a passionflower blend that had been imported and he rather loved it. It seemed to both calm his nerves and give him little bursts of energy that helped him get through his days.

"I'm not sure the Kozig would appreciate being called a brat." The voice startled both Olivier and Sigmar. They turned from where they were sitting under the pavilion in the gardens to see that it was the elderly figure of Lukas Montcourt. They both stood rather swiftly and bowed respectfully to the man before them. Olivier and Sigmar were rather embarrassed that the Lord Regent overheard the two talking rather poorly about one of the realm sovereigns. That was when Lukas smiled at the pair and motioned for them to sit back down, pulling himself up a chair so as to join them. "Then again family is not given the same regard as non-family." He said with a bit of a smile. The atmosphere seemed to thaw between them and the three carried on conversing about the evening's various guests. The thaw was what was known as the Montcourt charm, wherever he seemed to be any conflict seemed to just dissipate as if ice thawing.

That Evening
Everyone who was anyone in Noveaux was in attendance. Most of the Novean guests had already arrived at the estate in the mid-afternoon to partake in a religious ceremony that was being presided over by the Grand-Divine. The ceremony was known as the Petranari in which the Clerics ask the Goddess Petra for a blessing of wisdom to the people of Noveaux. Fire sacrifices of fir branches send pillars of smoke high into the sky and all around Noveaux one might thing that they are signal fires if they had never witnessed the ceremony before. The ceremony in the plaza of Saint Claire du Velle had every citizen and the guests of Olivier present for the event. This however was greatly dwarfed by the ceremony taking place at Mont Sarcien which held Petra's Prime Temple. The bonfire and ensuing smoke could be seen for many miles and as it made its way to the aetherial planes above it acted like a beacon for all the others.

After the ceremony the guests made their way to Clarien Castle where the ball was being held. The small hedges in the central courtyard of the Castle had a wooden platform and steps placed over them so as to provide more space for guests. A live band would be performing various music popular in Noveaux while also playing traditional Novean classical dances for the guests to enjoy themselves. A buffet style of tables filled with various Novean foods and a small selection of foreign cuisine selected for the international guests who were present, as were trays of champagne, Novean Wine and light non-alcoholic drinks for those who preferred. An arched tunnel of sorts led out from the south wall of the courtyard into the maze while on the north wall a similar tunnel opened to the drive where guests were being dropped off by cars. Security was tight as guests were expected to leave their own guards at the tunnel entrance since the Imperial Guard would be handling all internal security. At the entrance to the tunnel leading to the drive stood those who made up what they themselves joked as the 'greeting committee'. First in the line was the Chancellor Sigmar von Lohen, then came the Lord Regent Lukas Montcourt who, when not shaking the hands of the guests had his hands behind his back as if he was in his own mind pacing back and forth. Next to the Lord Regent stood the young Kaizig (Emperor) Evander Atlas. The sixteen year old was wearing a tux that had a sapphire sash with golden leaves embroidered along the edges. He was smiling and greeting the guests as though he had been raised for this sort of thing. To the right of Evander and the last in the committee was the host, Olivier Bast. He was young, handsome and by all accounts enjoying himself.

The mood was jovial, the atmosphere was warm and the people were mingling as they listened to the music. All the 'committee' could do was wait for their international guests to arrive. The young Emperor stood there smiling and was eager to meet them while the Lord Regent seemed to be in his thoughts. The others present were just there mingling among themselves and entertaining those who they could from where they were. 

-
Clarien Castle inner courtyard
Music at the Silver Light Ball -- Hope you enjoy Big Grin
The Fydorian Dictator looked out the window of the plane as it landed. He was finally able to stretch his joints and muscles after the long 10 hour flight. Archibald stepped  onto the barren, concrete landing pad. The ambassador he had sent here  walked towards him and greeted him with a smile and a handshake. "Everything is calm on the inside, you will be safe." Archibald nodded, and gave his accomplice a pat on the shoulder before motioning to follow, and stepping in to the party.
                     

                   Archibald quickly mixed in with the other partygoers. The Fydorian leader talked of politics, past wars, and other topics while laughing and drinking merrily.
Atariian Presidential Plane (APP)

President Atarii Segasis waited patiently as he and his fellow Atariians flew towards Noveaux. The Silver Light Ball was quite an important event for the nation, especially in their time of need. This, coupled with Segasis' inability to attend the funerals of the former sovereigns meant that his attendance was a necessity. He was staring out the window of the plane when his wife, Victoria, grabbed his attention. 

"Are you going to stare into nothingness the whole flight?" As she said this, a smile had already begun forming. She wanted to keep things light for her husband considering what had happened in Noveaux. After all, Noveaux was the first nation to officially recognize Atariia as a sovereign state following their civil war. The Empress herself went to great lengths to ensure he had as easy a time as possible rebuilding from the ashes of the Sieg Republic. 

"I'm fine, beautiful. It's just been a crazy week." His speech was always altered when he spoke to her; he wouldn't speak to anyone else in such a way. Nevertheless, as he said this, the pilot informed the cabin and crew that they would be landing shortly. With this, the couple kissed as the crew prepared for a landing and the attachment of Atariian Marines ensured the safety of everyone aboard, especially the Segasis,' would be handled in a professional manner. 
________________________________________________________

Once the couple had arrived, they were instantly greeted by multiple prominent Novean figures. However, Atarii was insistent on speaking with both Evander and Olivier. He meant, first, to apologize for his inability to have come sooner, considering the recent events in Noveaux, and second, his levels of joy to be in attendance tonight and congratulate the both of them on the progress they've made despite said events. 

"It is wonderful to see both of you! I have been looking forward to this day." His excitement was only matched by his sincerity. "And I don't believe you've met my wonderful wife." He motioned towards her as the two Noveans greeted the couple. It was rather interesting that they were the only two who came. Atarii usually chose to bring one or more of his inner circle. However, the fragility of the current situation coupled with the mostly non-political nature of the event meant that he wouldn't need anyone besides his spouse.
"We are landing at Balen international in Noveaux Executive Administrator." The Kumarian Crow-22 a military vertical takeoff plane begins it's descent on board is the provisional government's Executive Administrator Sergei Petrov voted in by the Union legislation. He is accompanied by his wife Fransika Petrov who has recently been appointed emissary to Fornoire in hopes to open an embassy there. He has been appointed by the Union in a mission to extend trade relations with Noveaux using the Silver light ball as a medium. The Union and R.C.S.K.'s previous and only trade partner was the late Kaizigen Atlas so Petrov is in high hopes to build relations with the business elite of Noveaux who will be in attendance.

The hatch in the back of the Crow-22 slowly lowers as the Union National Anthem begins. Standing to greet the Union's Executive couple is Ambassador Gerek Kuchar along with his wife Marelyn both of which will be in attendance, the Consul to Balen Tiylr Belshykk, and other various Union diplomats and emissaries who have been sent to Noveaux. As the music ends and they walk down the ramp Ambassador Kuchar reaches his hand out towards the Executive Administrator "Welcome to Noveaux Executive Administrator Petrov." Petrov reaches for the mans hand and reveals his half smile for which he is known for and says "Ambassador Kuchar thank you for your the most gracious of welcomes. The music and everyone here... To see a man walk off a plane." at that point it grew very quiet the Ambassador nervous Petrov continues "Tell me are we not Union men... Why are all these government officials!... During working hours!... Here Ambassador?..." Ambassador Kuchar meekly replies "We have come to honor you as Executive Administrator to the Union... I figured you would be surprised."  "Surprised is the one thing I am look at all of you wasting government time and funds." Petrov releases his grip on the Ambassador's hand. Petrov wipes the sweat from his hand onto the Ambassador's jacket and walks towards the 2016 black streched Kietirev four door limousine joined by his wife. 

"Well that went well." Fransika turned glaring at her husband "It was only a gesture of good faith in your Administration there was no need for that." "Dearest he represents Kumari and Wolfric Swartvec, old ideas I have yet to find a suitable replacement but when I do he's gone, along with all other PA members ambassadors." "What was that about wasting the peoples funds hmm?" "Random yelling in the heat of the moment, you ought to try it some time, it's very invigorating besides many of those diplomats probably lost respect for the man anyways which is all the better." The door opens as the Ambassador and his wife step in Kuchar tries to look in different directions avoiding eye contact with Petrov after the car pulls away with Kumarian Coup escorts and a moment of silence Fransika turns to Marelyn smiling "I love your dress is it what your wearing to the silver light ball?" She replies softly "Oh no I have luggage waiting at the train station with my actual attire for the ball."

From then on it was uncomfortable silence on the journey to Saint Mere Train Station where they separated into their own car suites on the train. "This brings me back to my time working at Howdokr Train Depot how about you?" Fransika unamused stares at him "That was terrible you should apologize he is your ambassador and your going to need him tonight." "I enjoyed the quiet personally." She points to the door *Sigh*"Fine only to bring better economic relations not because you told me too I was already planning on doing it." cracking a half smile once again. He walks down the hall to the next suite over and before he knock on the door he saw the Ambassador further down the hall at the bar. "Kuchar!" he yelled starting to walk towards him "I wanted to apologize for earlier a lot of stress on the job you know?" "Yes I can see that I just last week I blew up at my staff at the Embassy there wasn't a lot of damage due to the Tsunami that hit Auvon it was mainly flooding very frustrating, but Balen has to practically rebuild." "Yes I heard it was more devastating to the western half." The Ambassador looks out the window "You know trains always remind me of when I used to work on the rail back in Kumari city" "You don't say Ambassador? What are you drinking?" The two reminisce over rail work and the troubles of Kumari until they split at the train station taking 1936 Essels the rest of the journey with their escorts in Novessas.

"Ah Chancellor Sigmar von Lohen, I am Ambassador Kuchar this is my wife Marelyn and allow me to introduce Executive Administrator Sergei Petrov and his wife Fransika."
Silver Light Ball


Clarien Castle, Familial Estate of House Bast
Saint Claire du Velle, Kingdom of Mitan, Noveaux

The first of their international guests to arrive was the authoritarian leader of Fydoria. The various individuals who were greeting the guests as they came in offered handshakes of a respectful nature to the Dictator. An invitation to invite the Fydorians had been customary for the last decade since formal relations had been established so as to further mutual understanding and to have a good working relationship between the two nations. Noveaux wasn't necessarily approving of the Fydorian government and its policies but to simply cut ties on that was not something Noveaux wanted to do at this time. It was better to have some kind of positive relationship with others so as to present less of a target in their minds and to keep the peace as best as it could be kept. Ambassador d'Guise had been sure to send a dossier relating to Gesking which the Foreign Minister had shared with the important figures at the Ball so they would be aware of the various matters surrounding the Autocrat.

The greeting of Geskin was short and sweet. They shook hands and watched as he went into to the castle courtyard and began mingling with the various other guests. Atarii Segasis, President of Atariia. He represented one of Noveaux's most important and valuable allies. A staunch supporter of the Empress Satine and friend to both Olivier and Elysia upon their short tenure's on the throne. Lord Regent Montcourt and Olivier hoped that the same friendship was to be extended to the young Evander as the two  would surely become more acquainted as time passed. Atariia had been one of three nations the Regency Council had considered sending Evander to for schooling before they decided it would be best to send him to Sartoria for the time being. Montcourt had a firm handshake for Segasis but otherwise had little interaction with him as he noticed other guests beginning to arrive as well. The small group split up as Olivier and Evander began talking with Segasis and Montcourt continued greeting the guests.

"Segasis it is a delight to see you again!" Olivier said shaking the President's hand. While their tenure together had been short it had nonetheless been enjoyable for the younger ruler. Olivier then turned his attention to the young sovereign, "And may I present to you Evander Atlas, Kaizig of Noveaux." He stepped back just a tad to give the sovereign a little more room. It was customary that when the Sovereign was to begin talking to someone that those next to him give him room. It stemmed from the time of Julien I back in the mid 1800s. He had wild hand gestures and if you were close to him while he talked you were likely going to be accidentally smacked. As such it became standard protocol to give the sovereign room to talk.

Evander smiled and bowed his head gently to the older man, "I assure you the pleasure is mind President Segasis," he said keeping it formal until such a time that he was informed he could otherwise use non-formal tones and titles.

While Evander spoke to Segasis, Lord Regent Montcourt had the distinct 'priviledge' of greeting the Kumari Ambassador, his wife and the Transitional Leader Executive Administrator Sergei Petrov. The RCSK had been one of Noveaux's primary sources of Thorium under the previous administrations but with the overthrow of the Communist Dictatorship and the establishment of the Union, it seemed like there was going to be war between the Union and Fornoire. The saber rattling along with long term supply issues had prompted Noveaux to cut thorium imports from the Union in favor of finding other sources more amicable to the government and in a more stable region of the world. "A pleasure to make your acquaintance." Montcourt said with a firm handshake and a smile. "Pardon but the Sovereign seems to be busy at the moment, you all are welcome to enter the party for festivities and such." He said motioning to the group. He made a mental note to request a new ambassador from the Union, as Noveaux was preferring to rid itself of any of Wolfric's leftovers. 

-
Ambassador to Noveaux Otto Larsen of the Commonwealth of Valheim was both a very important man and a very stout one. Only a day before the long train ride and car drive to the Silver Light Ball from Calien, the new capital, Larsen had to find a tailor who could find a large --enough tuxedo to fit over his rolling paunch. His pudgy fingers tapped restlessly in thought on the armrest in the backseat of the car as it slowly climbed the winding switchback up the mountain slope to Clarien Castle. He could be thinking about the ongoing rivalry between Sor and Rodbukt, how it could impact his sale of Valheiman oil from both to Noveaux, or perhaps that Novean scientist's proposal to renovate the long- disused Large Radio Array on Valheim, or even more pressing international news, but instead the politically-appointed, balding, rotund man was brooding over his failed New Years' resolution to actually visit a gym.

In the driver's seat, the ambassador's personal attache,  Henrik Kristensen, eased the car around another sharp bend. They were running late, but he'd prefer they got to the castle safely instead of speeding their way through a guardrail and off a cliff. Kristensen came cut out of a Valheiman postcard- thick nose, short blonde hair, square jaw, well-built and immensely tall, too tall for his seat. Indeed, sometimes he wished he could return to that postcard, to the land of ice and snow. Nostalgia for the frozen thermometer was a strange thing- no one liked the cold after all, not even a Valheiman, but it nevertheless reminded him of home.

They finally reached the castle's medieval gate. Kristensen stepped out first and buttoned his suit jacket, hit by a blast of cool alpine wind. He smiled briefly. It stirred thoughts of home back through his mind again. He hastened back to his duties- handing over the keys to the valet, opening the door for the Ambassador, and escorting him to the party.

Henrik led the Ambassador toward the gate, but found the way blocked by the warm smiles of the Novean Imperial Court's highest members- and among their ranks even the young sovereign himself. He hesitated for a few moments, attempting to figure out the correct way to address them collectively. Desperately, he flung himself to one answer, hoping they wouldn't take it as too much of a slight.

"Your, ah, Excellencies... may I present to you, the Ambassador to Noveaux of the Commonwealth of Valheim, Mr. Otto Larsen," he said with his deepest bow, which still left him taller than his superior.

With pompous indignation for his subordinate, Larsen butted in with a slight bow of his own (for his stomach wouldn't allow him to go any further): "Your Imperial Grace, King of Esaur, Lord Regent Montcourt; Your Imperial Grace, Duke of Lienne, Primus Olivier Bast; Your Excellency, Chancellor Sigmar von Lohen; and of course Your Imperial Majesty, Kaizig of the United Realms of Noveaux, Evander Atlas- my sincerest gratitude for your invitation to this event."