Coronation Ceremony (Chyril 25th Early ET)

[Ashari]

Ashari's almond shaped gray eyes slipped to the side to examine the man who pegged her so correctly. It was a somewhat astonishing thing to be called such a dangerous predator by a stranger, but it brought a smile to her full lips. "No, the greatest catch has yet to appear," she commented, those daring eyes turning their attention to the area arranged for Andolin's coronation. "Why bother with less extraordinary fare when something so exciting is merely burns from arriving?" It was then that she allowed those meandering orbs to return to the nameless blonde who's charm was most definately honed.

"But why so much on my prey..?" A smile was hinted at in the brunette's soft cheeks, but it barely reached her lips as she locked into those green eyes. Their light and luminocity reminded her of Iorn and it struck a chord withing her, but she didn't let it show. It was easier, now. She was able to move past the thoughts of him, and sometimes would go several weeks without thinking of him at all. "What of all the lovely doves on the dance floor?" There were definately beautiful women about, and it was [b]Anora[/i] who Ashari singled out as one she didn't recognize from court. "Such as the dancer with the Lord over there," Her chin lifted gently to draw the gentleman's attention toward her. "I don't recognize her, but then again, I do not recognize you. Have we met?"

[Thrandil]

After catching up with Raevyn, Thran thought of the more important matters at hand. Of course, Rae was an Emerald Guard, and thus important to him, as being a General since a few days. However, his branch in Taquar's guard was diplomacy. And if ever he needed any, it was today. Unfortunately, the Caesar wasn't here yet, and he would like to have an audience with him later this evening. He could only hope the man who had appointed them rooms could make such an appointment. Kislovan was full of Elves, but belonged to the same person. The Western Kingdom was out of the question and the priests were not the ones he would ally up with. Not with one single faith. The general felt warm to all, however Pan would be his guide.

It was then that his scanning eyes fell on the dark adhiel sitting at the table. The woman that had entered with the other dark brethren, and seemingly a bodyguard was standing near her.

Carefully, but confident, he approached Lady Vlast, a polite smile on his face as he did so. "Namaste, achroiliel." he said, and continued in his native tongue. "How are you faring, Lady? I don't think we have met before. Thrandil Mael-Muire, at your service. General of Diplomatic Affairs for the Emerald Guard reformed out of the ashes of Taquar."

How was he ever going to talk to her if he couldn't open an easy conversation? He knew he wasn't a trained diplomat, but he needed some space. He wanted to take it easy with them, for Gulanadur hadn't been on a very friendly terms with the surface. He hoped he could soften this for them, for both Taquar and Gulanadur. Remembering how easily Penth got along by doing what he did, dancing, Thran immediately knew what he would do, and it would ashame him, but it would also get his private moment with this lady.

"May I have this dance, M'lady?" he asked Vlast, extending his hand to her. He already was cursing himself for doing this, for in no way had he ever had dancing lessons and this would be one hell of a laugh to the rest. He'd just try and hope she would take the initiative while on the dance floor, if they ever got that far.

[Med]

Penth looked at his two companions, he may have been denser than a fossilized piece of orc dung sometimes, and he almost wondered what one would look like.

Would people wear them like earings? If they did would it not fester or get stinky? Stinky is not always bad if it's raining.

Shaking his head slightly he went back to the current reality of things.Anora's eyes were wandering around and Varesh well he seemed a different sort.

"Probably why I managed my way in sir. I would have loved to play but wishes are few and far between. Like following the Moon Lady on a late night."

Penth paused briefly.

"It really doesn't look like you and her just to see the caesar coronated." he kept his voice a little low.

[Grey Wolf]

Unfortunately to Mezatino weapons were absolutely forbidden that evening, every arrival asked politely to hand over any armaments to the impeccably polite pair of Imperial Whites. They did not touch the new arrivals in any way, merely running their hands close to the person's skin pausing over anything metallic upon the person's body and asking for an explanation. No matter how polite they were, the amount of sharp steel upon Mezatino's body caused them to arch their brows as they asked for his weapons, handing him a receipt which could later be used to claim his possessions from them. Under no circumstances would he be allowed to enter until he had handed all his weapons to the polite pair.

Some it seemed did not have to follow such rules an unnaturally beautiful lady behind him gliding past the guards without a word from them. Their escorts paused at the door and with a silent nod to the white clad guardsmen took position near the entrance. Olive skinned and muscular, they wore nothing but a light silken skirt about their hips and a belt upon which hung an odd looking blade, the traditional khepesh of the Amun Rah Immortals. Their chests were bare save for the crossed belts that held the khepesh in place, the men moving like a silent wave, lithe and agile and eerily silent.

Their mistress wore a gown that would have been considered scandalous just about anywhere in the world save perhaps her homeland of Amun Rah. Isis, the Voice of Rafao Ionis, knew well just how beautiful she were, loving to show it clearly to the less blessed mortals around her. Barefoot as she was, she wore a pair of glittering silver anklets, soft chiming betraying each bead to be a tiny bell, each of her steps radiating confidence and superiority. Her skin glistened from the thin layer of aromatic oils that coated her body, her hair falling down her back as a black waterfall. A small golden droplet hung from every single hair, brushing against her lower back with each step. At the front her crimson red gown reached just barely above her knees, each step showing her shapely thighs as they flashed through one of the twin cuts in the fabric that reach dangerously high. At the back the skirt covered her beautifully sculpted behind just barely, teasing the men about her to stumble and lean low and see if they could glimpse where the curve of her bottom began. Her hips rolled with each step, the back bare save for the hair falling over it, thin strips of fabric her skirt with the upper portion of her outfit. Though she had been known to walk wearing little more than a body paint, today her breasts were covered in the same crimson red fabric of her skirt, the thin silk clinging to her body tightly, leaving little to the imagination. Pushing her bosom up it was tied behind her neck leaving her stomach and shoulder bare. She wore no jewelry save for a simple golden band around her left ring-finger.

A mere step behind her a thin man of undistinguishable age walked, his clothes much more decent, but still of the finest cut and design. He was a full head taller than the woman before him, Grand Vizier's hand coming up to stroke his thin goatee as they entered, his eyes quickly surveying the room, though for now he remained silent. A servant quickly found his way to the beautiful Amunic lady, her supple hand picking a glass of wine from the platter, though she took but a sip from it if even that.

"Ambitious as well as beautiful. A dangerous combination, milady." The man met Ashari's eyes without hesitation, keeping their gazes locked as long as she wished it, his smile not as subtle as hers. " Why bother with less extraordinary fare when something so exciting is already here?" His brow arched up as if in question, before he let his gaze glide away and towards Anora. "That dove already has a man at her side, and I will be so bold as to imagine that I am a match for any lady-hawk's talons." He grinned at Ashari and then swept into a deep bow, though he still held her gaze. "Count Jacob de Besnie, at your service." The de Besnie name was well known even in outside Muchislie, lady Marie being the ruler of the island, coming to power after Silk was deposed.

Lord Varesh had seen too much to be baited by such a simple trap as Penth threw his way, the man's brow arching at the bard's question, a mysterious smile curling his lips up. "Whatever do you imply, sir?" He hummed for a flicker before adding. "The lady returned a purse I dropped the other day and I sought to thank her and buy her a present. It got us talking and I found that she was a real treasure so I snatched her away before someone else could. She has all the making of a fine lady, apart from noble birth. Nether, she is more deserving of it than most of the women here today. Maybe I'll leave her my title when after I die. It's not like I have a heir or anything." The last was added with a mischievous smile his eyes moving to Anora.

"They are getting anxious, milord. I think we better hurry up." Bellish nodded at the his assistant, sending the man away with a wave of his hand, silently slipping into the dressing room. "Your Majesty, I think it is time. If you are ready I will order the music to stop and the trumpets to announce your arrival." He looked expectantly at Andolin waiting for the Caesar-to-be's decision.

OOC: Thrandil, give me a moment to get a hang of Lady Vlast and I shall post to you shortly.

[Ashari]

Jacob's confidence was intoxicating. It was men such as he that Ashari was drawn to like a moth to the flame. She loved this game, and it showed as he made his comment about talons. It caused a break in her cool exterior with a bright grin and a soft laugh that was mostly airy, but displayed that his charm was, indeed, working.

Her eyes fell to her drink as the laugh escaped, and she used the opertunity to take a quick sip of the amber liquor. As he smiled and bowed, she gave him her full attention, especially to that name. De Besnie, eh? Of the house that rules Muchislie... She'd heard it else where as well, through a more personal encounter. Isabella... But what had she said of him? It seemed so long ago now. Isa had done Ash the favor of warning her of a few members of court, as well as letting her know that Andolin was her next door neighbor. How things had changed over the past few months.

"It is a pleasure, Count," she replied, but in her eyes it was betrayed that she was having deeper thoughts. Placing and trying to figure out the puzzle of this flirtasious man. Perhaps it could be passed off as her being surprised at who he was, though it was hardly the time for her to attempt reading his mind to know for sure. "Ashari Gywien, hero of King's Court and the Citadel as well as the newly appointed Headmistress of the Red Rose Guild." She gave a generous curtsy, mindful of her drink to ensure not spilling. I remember once upon a time when I was just Ash... Here, in court, the title was of much import. It changed whether someone took you seriously, as well as how much respect they offered.

The entrace of Isis derailed the brunette's train of thought. It is a good thing I didn't bring Aeris. She took a deep breath at the sight of the woman and watched her numerous scantily clad guardsman take to their positions. "Speaking of predators..." It was a hushed whisper amidst the quiet hall. When the conversations began again, Ash turned to Jacob with a smile. "I must ask, Count, what brings you so far from home?"

[Fialessa Valenstri]

Fialessa’s eyes were lit brightly as she felt the effects of Vanir’s magic, she could not help but to smile softly at the disapproving Dominican as his gaze fell upon her. She’d known his displeasure before with Mister Motrice in the Dragon the night she’d found herself in the temple running from giant insects. He had intimidated her then, but that was a time ago and it looked like both of their places had changed some since.

She moved along side Vanir where he would, and watched the room go by. Fia had yet to lay eyes on this Andolin now to be Caesar that Vanir had discussed with her. Wondering as she let her gaze slip along if there was more than Van had told her about their enmity. The adhiel priestess recognized some faces as she looked, from the party where she’d met the Dortish Duke Erwin. But she was still far from knowing who and what each person was.

For the moment she would watch and smile and ornament Vanir’s arm…

[Mezatino]

Mezatino smiled sheepishly at the guards' quizical reactions to his extensive armaments. "Scuzi, old habit I guess." He quickly handed over all seven blades, the ones on his thigh proved a bit of a hassle but he managed to do it without flashing anyone. "Had a bit of a run in with the Simalde Family in the Mouth about a yahren back, and lets just say they wish me some very unspeakable harm." He shifted in his jacket and straightened all this clothes back into an impeccable fashion. "Atrocious fellows I have to say. But your security seems well enough, I trust you chaps not to let anything go amiss."

Mezatino held out his gloved hand, calmly waiting for a receipt. "Please be very careful with those, especially the falcetto, won it off a bishop in the Prodesse of Dominicus over a gamble." Then he chuckled to himself, as if remember that day in his mind. Naturally, he was lying out his teeth.

[Vanir Alfheim]

Vanir strolled out to the main garden, careful of the rare treasure on his arm. He smiled wickedly at Lord Hagan as he took in the surroundings, although he could tell Fialessa was still unsure of her purpose there. It seemed he would need to help point out their various targets for the night in hope of gaining allies for the coming storm. There was no harm in being prepared for any confrontation. The voice of the priest was calm and pleasant as he whispered in his lover's ear.

"Isis seems to have made her appearance here once again. She may seem to be another uninspired noble, but the truth is that she plays a very clever game. I'll make an effort to speak with her tonight, although I am not sure what kind of deal would need to be made for any help from her people, if ever needed. She is truly a wolf on the hunt, but we must all make sacrifices."

"The lovely adhiel over there talking to our dark-skinned brethren is the Lady Sosa, former commander of the Purple Guard and Grand Master to Illuminatus. I am not sure who here companion is, but I would assume a representive of Gulandur. It may seem odd to think of a paladin of Light as an ally, but I already know that she can be trusted. She might be our most important friend within the palace as we stand. However it is a secret best kept to ourselves."

"Lady Ashari is over there talking to a rather noble-looking gentleman. She has been trying to reopen the Red Rose Guild against some resistance. I have already come to some manner of arrangement with her, but you might try to see what she would reveal to another woman. She plays the part of proper lady, yet I don't think she is so far from us."

"Ulder and Elaine are here as well, which I quite expected. It even seems some of our friends from the other evening are here. I believe the one over there is from the University of Magick. You should go speak with them, if you get the oppertunity this evening. They are already are friends and allies, but it never hurts to keep those bonds strong. I need to speak with Elaine myself and congratulate them again on their union." Vanir smiled and spoke sweetly. "They do seem perfect for each other, don't they?"

[Anora Frollie]

Anora's eyes feasted on all the shiny objects in the area, her fingers itching to go relieve them of their past owners. She shifted in her seat, the dress sliding to reveal one toned leg up to midthigh as she grew restless. Lifting a glass to her lips, she took a sip, just to have something to do. She could feel eyes on her, and not just passing glances.

She was about to get up to wander when Isis strutted in. A low whistle escaped the little thief's lips as she watched the large, beautiful woman stroll confidently into the space. Unconsciously, she licked her lips as a wave of lust moved over her. Then, she shook her head. She was after a man, not a woman tonight. Ceasar, Ceasar, Ceasar, she repeated in her mind.

[Keaira Morgandy]

She never did work up the nerve to search for Michael, but in her casual (and scarce) comings and goings about the Citadel, she did manage to catch wind of something big. Something important. The Caesar's coronation did not seem like something the madam of a brothel would be invited to, but she longed to go. In some way, Keaira was slightly aware of her own beauty. Perhaps she could charm them into allowing her entrance. After all, she could certainly look the part of a noble.

And look the part she did. As always her eyes were lined darkly with kohl, her pale cheeks dusted with rouge, so that she looked the part of a porcelain doll. Silver earrings hung delicately from her ears, and around her neck she wore a silver necklace with a simple but lovely rose pendant. The gown she wore was an elegant black velvet, hugging jealously to her curves from her ample breasts down to the middle of her thighs, where it then gracefully curved out to fall in cascading layers to her feet. Its sleeves sat low on her shoulders and left the flesh there exposed, the remainder long (serving to hide her wound well) and tight down to the elbow, loosening then and hanging elegantly down to her wrists. Its neck scooped down tastefully to the welcoming sight of her bosom, above which the rose pendant came to rest. On her fingers she wore both Michael's large ruby ring and the emerald ring she had found on her person, the overall effect of nobility quite convincing -- or at least of wealth. Her hair was down, the silky black tresses reaching nearly to the small of her back, and a peacock feather had been carefully braided into it near the front, so that its colors stood out with the intense blue of her eyes. She was a being of demanding attention with such contrasts between her milky skin and dark clothing, and her enchanting eyes offered polite nonchalance, her chin carefully lifted in ladylike pride.

Keaira had no weapons or anything of the sort on her, and her dancer's grace led her to almost glide across the floor. If she could, she would simply pause to be approved of, and enter. What reason would they have to stop her? At least, this is what she hoped.

[Med]

"I imply nothing good sir. You both just seem rather out of place here. And I spot another.. " His eyes moved over to raven haired beauty. It Seemed another dance might be in order and Penth gave a great smile.

The wandering bard gave a grin back to his company, "Seems I Might have been waiting for something myself."

Penth had little clue how he was going to introduce himself as he meandered over to Keaira. Her dress and build were certainly stunning.

Thinking a bit fast he grabbed a drink off a near by server's tray and produced it for her.

"What took you so long?" he asked.

"I must say as well your gown is quite exquisite." Penth talked almost as if he knew her but in fact he did not at all. He was used to it. But still hospitality could go a long ways.

[Grey Wolf]

As name de Besnie allowed for certain assumptions to be made, rumors that flew about the Citadel added a few more tidbits about the man before Ashari. Though most of Muchislie had little liking for Imperial Secretary Silk, it was rumored that young de Besnie harbored more hatred than most, only the now missing General Stacco out hating him in regards to the former Tyrant. "Ah, brave as well as beautiful. I regret I have not heard of your exploits in the West, but I have heard of your here. Though I know so very little of demons and their kind, I do know that you have done a great service to the Empire." Then with an impish smile, he leaned closer and whispered. "I might even say I personally owe you my life in a way. I wonder if I could repay it somehow?"

It was a purely rhetorical question the Count chuckling and shrugging modestly when asked what his purpose at Citadel was. "My homeland needs a representative in the Council and I have been sent to handle it. My family holds a vote in the Advisory Council, and ever since General Stacco was called back due to rumors of his cooperation with Silk, I have taken over his responsibilities as the Ambassador as well." He waved such serious talk away and smiled politely. "But you mentioned Red Rose Guild. I have thought it has been closed by the order of that same Imperial Secretary Silk. I hope you have not had problems due to it so far?"

For all his glaring and staring Hagen did not choose to react in any other way to Panling presence. Behind him in a cluster of priests, a familiar figure of Noland was visible, the young man listening silently to the other holy men and women as their argument was slowly dying down. Pecking order of sorts has been established though Sister Kartian and Mother Abeaja did not look too friendly towards each other just now. Suddenly, Noland's head rose and he looked towards VAnir and Fialessa, smiling and giving them a small wave, pretending to roll his eyes at the situation next to him.

The guards at the door were as efficient and polite as Tunairre, though just how well trained they were was not so readily evident. A receipt found its way to Mezatinos' hands very quickly, the Corporal standing back and letting him through without further trouble. "I apologize for the inconvenience, milord. Please, enjoy your evening." Within flickers his attention was upon Keaira, her outfit giving her access without any need for an invitation. She was spared a quick glance, the guard bowing to her and moving out of her way. "Welcome, milady. I hope you shall enjoy your evening."

Anora's wandering attention allowed her to catch sight of more than most others did, their attentions focused on people they knew. An excitement of sorts was spreading across the servants in the chamber, their eyes going towards the throne that stood empty high above the floor, as if they were expecting something to happen any moment now. So very near the stairs leading up to the throne a peculiar trio stood, the man amongst them obviously having the primate over the pair of girls, one of them bearing a striking similarity to him, most certainly his sister, both having a dark, almost raven black hair, the girl's flowing past her pale, bare shoulder. The other girl looked even more attractive than her companion, her curves almost unnaturally perfect, her skin without a single blemish upon it, her brown hair slightly curling near the ends. The man had a confident manner of someone well aware of his attractive figure, his features marred by a sarcastic smirk that seemed to grow each time he glanced towards the throne or more likely behind it.

[Mezatino]

Mezatino slowly took the receipt from the corporal, and lazily stuffed it into the brest of his silky jacket. "A pleasure meeting you, gents." Mezatino exclaimed as he quickly took his course past them and to the ceremony. He let his gaze drift amongst the crowd looking for anyone who might be interested in employing his talents. Then his sight caught ahold of the enamorous Keaira, who was stunning in her very gracious dress that seemed more inviting than anything Mezatino had seen so far. However, instead of simply approaching her as was his custom he decided to wait a moment. The Citadel was whole new world for him to frustrate and conquer, he didn't know all the rules just yet.

Ladro loved oranges. So Mezatino pulled some dried orange fruit from his purse and gave a strip to the theft-prone monkey, as he observed Keaira and the rest of the ceremony by peripheral vision.

[Keaira Morgandy]

A dazzling smile pulled the corners of Keaira's lips back as the guard let her pass without question. So, she could pull it off. Moving as quietly as a gentle breeze, she entered the gathering without a hitch. In front of her was Mezatino, and she gazed curiously at his monkey, her large eyes lending an innocent air to her that could easily make her seem like little more than a fawn among wolves. But she was soon distracted.

Grace, beauty, gentleness -- Mentally reciting all of the things she needed to be aware of in such company, Keaira had turned her head to sweep the room with her wide-eyed gaze, in the hopes of finding someone familiar. Right in the middle of her survey, she was mildly surprised to find a drink presented to her by an unknown individual. I suppose I should be used to it, she thought wryly. Unbeknownst to Penth, Keaira's lapse in memory gave her a large disadvantage. It took her only flickers to decide her best course of action: he seemed to know her, so she must play along.

Extending a hand to accept the drink, Keaira laughed gently and tossed her head with a small flex of her neck, her raven locks flipping back behind her exposed shoulders. She looked directly into Penth's eyes as she spoke, the blue of her own so pronounced against the backdrop of her kohl-lined lids that they almost demanded his attention. "I do apologize, but it does take time to prepare for these things." His compliment on her dress widened her smile as she took a sip, batting her thick eyelashes at him almost playfully over the rim of her glass. After all, she'd been the madam of a brothel, so surely she was known to woo, if not seduce.

[Andolin]

Having polished his teeth the best he could with his handkerchief, while staring in a mirror, Andolin allowed himself to be led to the entrance and be announced. Standing tall as he could, the man who would be Caesar swept into the throne room as the fanfare was made. He had waited sufficiently to build up anticipation. Now it was time to complete the ceremony.

Smiling to everyone he encountered or sighted along the way, he made his way towards the throne, where it was his undersatanding that the ceremony was to take place. Once coronated, he would be pleased to take a seat upon the throne and behold the throng from a new vantage point.

ooc~corrected small typo

[Ashari]

Considering the fact that her most well known act in King's Court had been bringing down a regent Ash didn't consider this to be the best occassion to begin describing those adventures of old. "The Western Kingdom is plagued by monsters. I helped defeat orcish invaders," she gave a smirk and downplayed the distruction she saw in those days, "And I thought by moving here I'd have less to worry about." There was a small chuckle after it. The Citadel, if nothing else, seemed to be plagued with it's own monsters. "I'm happy to be of service to the city, as well as to my Caesar." There was no need to suggest what sort of monetary benefit came from being a heroine, for in all honesty, Ashari loved to adventure and the cash had some how become a fringe benefit of the chase.

It was the way that Jacob suggested he owed his life to her that gave her slight pause - wondering how close he'd been to the action, or perhaps to whomever brought the Changer to this world. It was his proximaty that warmed her skin as he leaned in to her space, closer to the scent of her lavendar perfume. "You're repaying it right now, Count, merely with your conversation. I find so few people worth the breath of the words, but you, you are like a jeweled bauble to a thief," They were kind words - flattering, and it seemed appropriate. From all the royalty she'd yet had the chance to meet not a one hadn't appreciated a compliment - and Ash was hardly one to praise another without reason. Nevermind the somewhat intended double meaning, for Jacob was hardly difficult to look at.

"Problems?" No, no problems at all aside from Thomas falling off the planet and taking his word of safety with him. "Few... yes. Squabblings of the underworld being taken out on my establishment. Apparently it doesn't matter that I attempt an endeavor to bring the Red Rose Guild out of it's seedy past, only to see my doors slashed and windows broken by bricks." She sighed with a hint of frustration, but covered it quickly with a smile. "Silk ought not be concerned enough about my little guild to return from wherever it is he is, I don't think."

Movement caught Ash's attention. "Ando- The Caesar," She lifted her chin to point out to the attractive count that the dark haired lion had entered. "Do we bow now? I'm not quite sure of the protocol, here." Her fluffy lashes batted innocently and with a humble honesty that spoke of Ashari's youth, not always easily detected.

[Med]

Penth was oblivious to the fact of how unusual this was. She was amazing though all in the same. Looks like that captivated the mind. The bard however did not wear any staggering adornment. He had dressed up a little even combed his hair.

Looking down at himself he thought maybe he should have worn something else. Yet it did not really matter in his mind that much. It was a usual to be in the most strange positions for him.

"Welcome to the big charade." He said with a mirthful turn of his lip.

"You may need another."

Noticing that the newly to be crowned caesar had entered he turned his head as the murmurs started, but did not part company as of yet.

[Anora Frollie]

Catching sight of the trio by the stage, Anora leaned towards Varesh, her eyes staying on them. "Who's that?," she asked, barely keeping from pointing, though her eyes never strayed from her target. Then, her true target entered. Her eyes took him in, looking Andolin up and down. He was attractive enough, but his expression let her know that he was well aware of it. One brow rose in amusement at his strut towards the throne.

Leaning towards her escort again, she whispered in his ear, her hand on his arm while her eyes rested on the Caesar, "I thought he would be...bigger." There was a note of almost disappointment in her voice.

[Keaira Morgandy]

Again she felt confirmed that she and Penth were acquaintances. He hadn't introduced himself, so he must have expected her to know him. Not for the first time, Keaira found herself irritated at the whole situation. What was keeping her from remembering?

Keaira's brilliant eyes lifted curiously as Andolin entered the room, yet she suddenly found them narrowing, as a thought slipped into her foggy little mind.

I wanted to be Caesar.

It was all she could do to keep from laughing aloud at herself. As it were, a smile snuck onto her lips and she had to disguise it with another sip from her glass. The very idea of her being in any kind of position of power was preposterous to her. It would be nice, though, she found herself thinking. I was in charge of a whole brothel, why not aspire to more? Yet that brothel had burned down. Michael's fault, not mine. And that girl, the threat to the University of Magic, they'd been after her too. Yet Keaira had been captured and released -- with a catch, of course, but she was still alive. Again, she queried. Why not? Why not indeed. But impossible now, there was already a new Caesar. And he is a man. Yes, of course. She would speak with him later, if possible. No doubt there were many others who sought his attention.

As the raven haired beauty looked away from Andolin, it occurred to her that her thoughts had almost seemed like they were answering her. A conversation with herself, perhaps? When did I start thinking that way? But it was little matter, there was too much else to pay attention to.

Penth was speaking, and he sounded sarcastic. He'd called the whole affair a charade, and Keaira tilted her head in her trademark quizzical look -- that deer-in-the-headlights sort of way. Perhaps he didn't enjoy such gatherings; but of course she couldn't ask him, because she might have already known. This is ridiculous. So she said nothing. Perhaps he would think she was merely a bit simple. After all, it was rare to find a woman with a brain to match such attractive features. Curiosity pulled her gaze back up to Andolin. Her thoughts seemed to be wandering, then, for Keaira found herself caring little for those around her while she gazed at him. She thought only of garnering his attention and keeping it. Oh, how fun it would be...

Again Keaira smiled, but this time it was almost wicked. For the briefest moment, her eyes changed. It happened so quickly that it was impossible to tell just how they changed, but they'd seemed to get more intense, perhaps almost to glow. Yet this faded so quickly that only the most careful observer would have noticed, and Keaira passed a hand over her forehead, disguising it as a means of brushing a few strands of hair out of her face. She could have sworn, though, that for a moment she had blacked out, despite the fact that she was still standing upright and felt no residual dizziness. Strange.

[Med]

Keira seemed perplexed at best. Penth didn't mind, but felt he might explain himself a bit as he had other interests at heart. Going off to some escapade, singing at a tavern... or..

Did her eyes just flash?

He paused a burn and yeah it was a long burn. Finally though the bard found words to speak.

"I am Penth by the way. Wandering minstrel by trade milady, but not here to perform tonight." since she obviously didn't know him and he didn't know her.

"You seemed to be having some difficulties from the guards so I thought I might assist.You do seem umm a bit disorientated, are you okay?"

[Ulder]

Azarin entered in his usual manner and Ulder watched, standing alone. For the time being, Elaine was speaking with Draydis and his own conversation with Ssinth had run its course. Being alone at the moment the new Caesar entered was a bit of serendipity given from the Gods.

He watched Azarin scour the room with his eyes and when the man's eyes met his, he raised his glass in a silent gesture. No words were spoken. There were none needed, and Ulder was certain that Andolin would have talked down to him anyway had there been. It was better this way, for him at least.

He silently pondered over the reverse of things.

What if that were me up there? Could I do it differently? Would I do it differently? Is this man going to save this place? Or sink it into oblivion with corruption and greed?

Seeing Azarin face to face for the first time since the wedding only brought home the decision to leave more and more, cementing it into his soul as being the right thing to do.

Enjoy your day sir. Make it a celebration for the ages, for tomorrow, when they see what kind of man you are, when your mask is ripped off and your true nature is revealed, these people will rise up and tear you limb from limb.

Ulder looked down sourly at his glass and chastised himself.

Envy is unbecoming on you Ulder. Your mother raised you better, and Elaine would be disappointed. You're better than that.

Ulder looked up, hollow eyed, but otherwise stoically watched the proceedings commence.

[Grey Wolf]

Trumpets sounded a good dozen flickers before the Caesar-to-be strode into the Great Hall, their blare drowning out all other sounds, for a few flickers making any conversation impossible. A pair of guards, dressed in shining silver armor, preceded the soon-to-be-crowned ruler of the Empire, each carrying an enormous two handed sword before him, taking position a few steps under his vantage point, the whispers from the crowd dropping to a faint hush and then utter silence. Well over a hundred people all looked up at Andolin Azarin and good deal of them envied his elevated position, hated his very being, and craved the power he had for themselves. The others..... They wanted to lick his boots and serve him humbly like dogs, for the chance that he might grant them scraps from his table. Some simply hated him and wanted him dead.

It was Mother Abeaja that spoke first, flanked by Sister Katrian of Temple of Pecunia. "Andolin Azarin we are said that you would be father of our land, and that you are willing to serve the Empire and its people. Is that true?" It was a customary start of the ceremony, that had been passed through the centuries, the new Caesar required only to answer affirmatively to each and every one of the questions presented before him.

As the Caesar entered, Lord Varesh rose with the entire crowd, leaning closer to his protege, whispering into her ear. "Those three are nothing but trouble. I do not know the brown haired beauty, but those two are Eisolf and Lucienda Marcada, twin children of Baron Marcada. He runs Imperial Trade Guild for Duke Erwin."

LAdro took the orange readily, the blare of trumpets causing the little simian to start and jump off its masters shoulders, scrambling under the table, disappearing from sight utterly. Here and there his little form flashed from between the chair legs, the monkey moving towards the dais where the new Caesar was about to be crowned, but did not emerge in the open, preferring to remain hidden from sight.

Jacob, remained standing, his eyes on the dais, though he whispered softly to Ashari next to him. "No, milady. Tonight he bows to us. According to ancient traditions the Caesar serves the Empire as much as he rules it. That is why he needs a wife as soon as possible. If you will forgive me for being so blunt, but his seed needs to find the fertile soil if the Empire is to prosper. The ritual tonight is said to link him to the land and some say that if he makes love to a woman he loves the land prospers." He paused and then added in a lower voice. "There were whispers that late Caesar Anochrim erred in that when he sougth a male lover. Superstitions for sure, but makes a man wonder does it not?"

[Ssinith DIllil]

Some hated, others envied, some admired the Caesar.

S'sinith's mask of interest held strong as his apathy reached the stunning level of a bowl of porridge.

Yes, this was a historical event. Why the nether couldn't he be at his alchemist lab making a new concoction of potions? This man obviously could give less of a damn about Gulanadur. S'sinith's meeting with the steward forbade him a good look at the potential suitor for the Princess of Gulanadur, but he was certain that her charms could lower the defenses of any surface man.

Why did he have to worry about the Lady Vlast, anyway? If the Caesar-to-be was daft enough not to stare at a woman that lovely, what interest could he have for Gulanadur other than that throne he was about to sit on?

Alright, perhaps a little envy... for those fortunate enough to be attending the University of Magic. Oh gods! To be studying for tests and plotting out more formulas! To be smelling acidic compounds over the wafting perfume of court!

Thoughts of magical rote filled his head as he smiled during the coronation, making a note in the back of his mind not to let his eyes stray from the throne, lest the true source of his joy be revealed.

[Aerin Penna Seleratus]

As out of place as she felt, Aerin tried not to let it show as she made her way toward the coronation ceremony. She had not been invited, nor had she been officially barred…at least not yet…from making the trek. ‘The richer the host, the poorer the guest…’ Rat had once advised her, meaning that her pockets should be beyond empty going in, save for a few coins if needed. Aerin, like many others she was sure, hated the thought of leaving her weapons behind but knew in her heart that certainly not even so much as a dainty little dagger would be allowed within line of sight of the new Caesar.

Besides… she had thought as she wiggled and squirmed into a dress that was so tight that she hoped not even men could breathe around it. I have no desire to kill him or anyone else in that sense… she continued as she adjusted some of her more appealing assets into the restrictive cups that the gown’s materials had almost magically formed around them as she had tied the material at the nape of her neck. Although it would be nice if I could at least knock somebody dead tonight.

She had shot herself a smile in the mirror before continuing to dress, thankful to be cleaned of ash, soot, and the smell of death from her short stint at the site of the Red Banner. A few short pivots and turns to view the angles showed her both an image that she was satisfied with and lines which dared any guard to try to slip even a scrap of parchment between fabric and flesh, much less a dagger.

Parchment… she had remembered suddenly, tucking her pass into her nearly-emptied coin purse before wedging the small satchel of cloth painfully into the only sort of pocket that her dress and breasts had provided and then, with a final blown kiss to her new pet, Aerin had left on her journey to the coronation.

Now, any hazards or faults along the way aside, she saw her goal and gave a demure curtsey, her freshly combed and curled red locks dancing in tune with her movements as she greeted the guard nearest her. “Hello…” she intoned with a smile. “Aerin Seleratus of…Simple Pleasures… May I enter?” she asked politely, introducing herself in the best way that she knew how and hoping that it truly was an open an event as she had come to believe it was.

OOC: Pardon me for being late to arrive.

[Ashtallion Urdil]

The sorcerer now stood alone within the crowd, his expression conveying nothing except polite interest as he watched the soon to be crowned Caesar, yet even the skilled mage could not keep the flicker of uneasy shadows that swam momentarily across otherwise glittering golden eyes. His memory was thrown back into the not so distant past, fighting Ceasar Anochrim in the Tournament.....being the unknowing possible trigger to the great adhiels eventual death.....the thought still sent rippled of nervous nausea through his gut.

Still, he kept such sensations and doubtful emotions from marring his benign face.

For now, all Ashtallion could so was watch the ceremony. He wanted to speak with Ashari.....yet being preoccupied as she was....the mage did not want to run the risk of others disturbing, or overhearing his conversation.