Golden Leaf Ball

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."