Coronation Ceremony (Chyril 25th Early ET)

Anora Frollie · Post by **Anora Frollie** » Mon Jan 21, 2008 9:34 pm

Andolin was right that Anora had no money or power, but what he didn't realize was the one thing she did have. An ability to change herself into whomever others wanted her to be. Oh, she wasn't a shape shifter, though that would have been fun too for the little pickpocket. No, she could shift her personality. An actor, but not by trade. Perhaps if she had a different childhood, she could have been.

Right now, she was the playful seductress to be. Other times, she could be the brooding boy in the back of the tavern. The lost waif. The aggressive lover. The obediant child. All one person. And there was room for more. Soon, she would be the attentive shop clerk, when she took up her position as Audrey's assistant. A flexible moral compass and an innocent face and one could be anything at all.

These thoughts didn't enter her mind, though, as she looked up at the Caesar. No, the thought that ran through her mind was, Damn, but he's a cocky one. Look at him up there, looking down at us. Her grin spread as she caught Andolin's eyes with her own. On a whim, she gave him a saucy wink and a nod, then turned her eyes away, ignoring him for now.

Keaira Morgandy · Post by **Keaira Morgandy** » Mon Jan 21, 2008 9:56 pm

It was not so terribly difficult to weave through the throng, for most were distracted by the fireworks and Keaira was little more than a passing breeze. Once she was sure the new Caesar would be able to see her, a gentle toss of her head pushed her raven hair behind an exposed shoulder, the slender curve of her neck visible as she took another small sip of her drink. All the while she watched him just barely from the corner of her eye, waiting patiently for --

Ah, there. He'd noticed her.

In the flickers that Andolin's eyes passed over her, Keaira turned and dipped down ever so slightly, one hand holding her skirt out to the side as the other raised her glass in what was a mixture of greeting, congratulations, and...was that submission? There was a natural grace about her as she rose again and smiled sweetly -- regardless of whether or not he was still looking. After all, once glance would usually tell a man whether or not he should be interested, and if the dear Caesar did not approach her, well, she would find a reason to approach him.

His glance had also moved elsewhere, however, and Keaira followed it, gazing calmly at those who wished to be her competition and feeling little concern. The sight of Anora almost made her chuckle. Keaira had been taught that curves made all the difference, and Anora, to her eyes, had all the gracious curves of a girl of ten yahren. Compared to Keaira's hourglass frame (made all the more obvious by her dress), Anora was hardly seen as a threat. Indeed, the look Keaira gave the girl seemed to say, Darling, you can't be serious. And, was that a trace of scorn in her eyes? How rude of her.

Keaira, caught up in the fun of this new game of cat and mouse (in which she purposely made herself seem the mouse), hardly noticed the sudden shift in her demeanor. Why, she was acting almost mean toward a complete stranger! Though she had made herself the prey, her very movements spoke more of feline than rodent, more huntress than hunted. Her eyes, wide with innocence only moments before, had narrowed ever so slightly, one slender brow lifting in what could only be seen as a devious manner.

Uncharacteristically, she released a sultry chuckle. She'd blossomed from a wall flower into a rose (perhaps with more thorns than most) with only one glance from Andolin, and the change was evident. How quickly she transformed! This will be fun.

Craghley · Post by **Craghley** » Tue Jan 22, 2008 3:06 am

Craghley took time to ponder Mezatino's words. Long enough to appreciate another mouthful of wine.

"If you had asked me but week ago what a Caesar, or whom this Andolin fellow was, I wouldn't have the foggiest. To me, the... epitomy" - Craghley had recently been attempting to improve his vocabulary both for the Guard and the ceremony - "of power was the Duke Erwin von-zu Dort-Billigh. I knew the world outside was big... but this big?

He paused a moment to watch the ceremony proceed, scrutinizing over Andolin.

"As for 'sinister'... I think that's not entirely unwarranted. Even back home, power mostly just fuelled the greed for more." Memories of the bitter struggle between Islay and the north to maintain their independance surged forth. "And it's likely worse here. All the posing, all the skullduggery, it can do things to a man or woman that make you cringe. From the little I've seen, the honest are at a disadvantage in that game."

Mezatino · Post by **Mezatino** » Tue Jan 22, 2008 4:42 am

Mezatino too sat back for a moment, soaking in his company's words. Taking another sip of his wine, he became dour for but a moment. "You have no idea, the extents to what people will do and become of political power." Smargiasso, you fucking cazzo. Today as everyday, I piss upon your grave.

Grinning and facing the festivities, he spoke agian. "Clearly, the world is much bigger than you thought. If you believe this," He motioned towards the majestic building and all it's guests. "The Citadel, is grand towards politics, then you must visit World's Mouth some day. Even the lowliest of criminals are on par with this political establishment."

Time for a gamble. Sidelong, Mezatino glanced over at his companion and caught his gaze. "In my opinion, true power...the epitomy of it...may just very well be in the name of Silk." He continued to sip at his wine watching the others face. "I know, I know, not too many agree with somethings...well most of what he did. But his was all fucking powerful, dear Craghley. Even today, he wields great power here in the Citadel."

Rosalie Marcada · Post by **Rosalie Marcada** » Sat Jan 26, 2008 8:18 pm

OOC: posting here with mod permission.

Rosalie sat there all the time, looking resplendid in her wide golden gown, the champagne coloured embroidery in whirls setting off against the silk fabric. An innumerable amount of pearls were used and they were woven into her complicated hairdo as well, her hair gathered up and set like a crown with the use of braids. The petite woman with her olive skin was almost lost in the ridiculous amount of fabric of her mouthie gown. She felt like a kind of queen. Had she not helped mastermind this event as she had several others of late? Now she sat on the council and had made her home town an independent country and alley to the Empire. Rosalie looked as she felt.. untouchable. Only the ribbon choker around her neck, adorned with a large diamond as reflected in the wedding ring upon her finger, reminded her that she was not. It hid the bruises from the other night, her very own husband attacking her as he was possessed by a spirit of one of her enemies.

Rosalie of course was sipping Rogue Red, refusing to touch anything that came from Kislovan. Her hatred of the Adhiel people shimmered through her as she threw a glance at where the representation of that isle was sitting. Anghiril especially was given an open glare of something very dark indeed, his insults remembered. Revenge would be sweet.

There had been a small nod for Ulder earlier, and his wife. Rosalie would always remember those that had been loyal to her. The famous paladin Sosa too received the royal recognition of World's Mouth's Ambassador. They had met but briefly, yet secretly Rose was thrilled to see a woman rise to such heights. It promised her that her own ambitions were achievable.

Her amber eyes had rested on Andolin in his purple attire, looking every inch the Caesar, his dark looks and impossible blue eyes handsome to her female senses. Memories of things that never truly happened send a little thrill through her limbs though she kept an iron control over herself. She had promised him some leniency if he helped her solve her problem with the spirit, yet he had been unable to prevent the attack of the other night. For all that the Empire was supposed to harbor the most powerful mages, Rosalie had trouble locating them. Yet her irritation for a lack of result did not keep her from feasting her eyes upon the man who would now be one of the most powerful men of the Empire, second only to those in the shadows.

Lord Hagen was here, her old enemy. His blue eyes bore in her back, or so she imagined. She tried to avoid his gaze, not wishing a battle of wills. She was still too exhausted for that.

Briefly her eyes rested on De Bessnie, whom she knew as a rude man, having witnessed the beating of a young man. She shook her head. Such strange creatures this court contained. She could have sworn that De Bessnie liked dealing out the punishment. Hates Secretary Silk, but Secretary Silk is gone. How interesting.

Her stepchildren were attending, unlike her husband who was still not fully recovered. Briefly her amber eyes rested upon Eisolf and Lucinda. Who was that girl with them. Suspicion niggled upon the Ambassador of World's Mouth, representative of Aveas. Can't be any good. She made sure to catch the gaze of Lucinda and held it for a burn, just to make sure she was seen observing. It was one of her father's well known intimidation techniques that Rose had picked up while sitting on Severo Lo Russo's knee.

The ceremony began and Rosalie tried to concentrate, musing on the very pagan content. The drawing of blood was rather barbaric and its significance completely passed by the Dominicus girl. The use of coin made far more sense to her. Politely she rose as the cheers went around the room, clapping while standing in a golden cloud of fabric, offering praise, how ever insincerely, of Caesar Andolin.

Post by **Grey Wolf** » Sun Jan 27, 2008 11:00 pm

A few murmured words amidst a crowd never drew much attention, especially on such a day when all the eyes were turned towards the new Caesar, as he at last took his rightful throne. He did earn it after all, though those people who knew how the Empire worked had to wonder what it would cost him in the end. Power never came cheaply and only question remaining was who gave him the power he would wield now. Apart from the mostly heartfelt praise the gathered courtiers uttered, the most tangible part of his power was already on Andolin mind. Not just Ashari, Keaira and Anora looked up at his high seat, but many others. Sezja in her new body stood next to the Marcada twins, Lucienda at her side nearly managing to overshadow the sorceress' perfectly sculpted body. Dozens of other equally beautiful ladies dotted the room, though most of them were unknown to the new Caesar.

Near the front stood another imposing figure, though such quality came mostly from the confidance and proud bearing, as well as obvious beauty of the Isis, Voice of Rafao. For a flicker her eyes held Andolin's, a mysterious smile curling the edges of her lips up, before her gaze dropped, all but drawing his eyes on the shape of the curves that made her so alluring, managing to look almost modest and shy for a moment, her long lashes lowered respectfully. Then the fire in her eyes was back, and confidence returned to her gaze with a vengeance, and Isis as people knew her stood there once more.

Until the Caesar took his seat upon the throne, Vanir might not even have existed as far as Isis was concerned, the dark skinned lady turning her voice, if not her gaze to him, only after the Andolin had been granted a rather special show as her well-wishing gift. "I fear I do not know of you......." Her voice trailed off, as she did not have a name to call him and decency prevented her from giving him one so soon in their relationship. "Perhaps you ought to introduce yourself first? Maybe set up an appointment with the Vizier and explain your purpose? I believe that is how things are done in a civilized world. People do not come to Rafao's palace and ask him for a favor. They see his advisors first."

Illis had not come to the coronation that evening, reminding his lady wife to tell those who would ask that he was unwell and needed to recover. He did send out an escort with her, and Deacon stood close-by, the old bodyguard looking rather dashing in custom tailored suit done in a Mouthie fashion. As silent as ever, he kept an eye on things, making sure his master's wife was safe and well. For their part the twins all but ignored their stepmother, while the mousy haired beauty at her side, returned her gaze with impertinence that could be born out of utter lack of concern and worry. In the end it was Sezja who turned her gaze away first, giving Rosalie that small measure of victory.

Andolin · Post by **Andolin** » Sat Feb 02, 2008 8:50 am

His mind had been on power when he was coronated. Now, his mind was free to run in other directions. He had pleasure of the mind, now he was desirous of having pleasure of the senses. So many beautiful women. His inner male bravado made his speculate silently whether he could bed them all. He was sure he could.

He pitied women who were not beautiful, for it seemed that with the aid of magic and other means women were able to make themselves alluring in a physical way. His eyes fell on Isis, and he held her gaze, signaling that he would be bold in his thoughts. Yet she was the sister wife of the Rafao, meaning that he would need to be careful of her. Her perfection was almost surreal, which had caused Andolin to suspect magical enhancement.

Rosalie was there. He gave her a small smile and a nod. It was curious to him that she had settled for some old fat Baron when she might have done better. She was one to watch, for more reasons that just pleasure.

Sezja was near perfect in appearance as well. Andolin knew that she was magically enhanced. Still, he did not mind, for she allowed him variety as she could change her facial features. He did not trust her overly, but he did respect her ability. Lucinda and Eisolf were there. He had already sampled Lucinda's favors, but she knew his secret as a dark sorcerer. It had been more of a hold on him before he was crowned Caesar. Now that he was crowned, he had less to fear. He was both Chamberlain of the Citadel and military leader of the Empire. That gave him a certain amount of protection from wild claims that he was a dark sorcerer. Lucinda did not realize it, perhaps, but her hold over him was weakening with the passage of each day. Soon, he would be free of her completely. If he could trust someone to dispose of her, he might allow it.

Kearra and Anora seemed to be showing him attention. This he encouraged with quick inviting smiles to each. He asked his guard if they knew the identity of either woman. He likewise threw inviting glances to other women worthy of his gaze. He did not plan to sleep alone this evening. There was something to celebrate, and a certain legend to fulfill as well. He was sorry to miss Ashari in the crowd. One moment she had been there and then, in the next, she was gone. He was very interested in what she had to offer. He preferred strong women and he took advantage of weak women.

Looking for his Steward, he hoped that musicians might be coaxed to begin dance music so that he might go out and meet his subjects. There were so many intriguing women ... and so little time.

Vanir Alfheim · Post by **Vanir Alfheim** » Sat Feb 02, 2008 6:38 pm

Vanir did not show any signs of intimidation or embarrassment, even relieved she did not know his name. He gave a polite bow and spoke in his sweetest voice. "My Lady Isis, my name is Vanir Alfheim, head priest for the Temple of Pan. I am so used to my reputation proceeding me that I forget you may not have heard of me. It is rather nice to start fresh."

The priest turned his head towards their new Caesar and then back to Isis. "The Empire changes once more and this time we can help it. If my old friend can become Caesar, then I suppose anything is possible. There is much that can be done tonight, but perhaps somewhere more appropriate, somewhere without ears?"

Post by **Grey Wolf** » Sun Feb 03, 2008 8:02 pm

OOC: Excuse the short time frame, but I could not resist posting this. Enjoy

It would seem the Steward's thoughts ran along the same lines as Caesar's the old man approaching and pausing a few steps away until he was granted leave to come and whisper into Andolin's ear. "Your Highness, you are expected to pick a dance partner. A lady would be preferable, but......" He left the rest unsaid, late Caesar Anochrim's tastes known to most of the Citadel. With the warning given he straightened and looked at the trumpeters nodding.

Trumpets blared once more, making the crowd calm down, as the grey haired Steward stepped forward and raised his hands in a calming gesture. "Ladies and gentlemen. At this time it would be time for our Caesar to start a dance with his life partner and celebrate his ascension. But, His Highness does not yet have a partner in life, so he will have to pick a dance partner from the crowd. Your Majesty if you would do the honor?" He stepped aside, as all eyes turned upwards, the girls in the crowd shuffling, pushing their way to the front, wanting to be noticed. A few remained where they were, though they were a gross minority.

Isis was among those that did not move, turning her head a bit towards Vanir and arching a single perfectly sculpted brow. "I have heard of you though I do not think you should be so proud of your reputation. Especially given how large the number of your followers is." She smiled, her lips curling up wonderfully, though it showed a hint of mockery in it. "But, we can talk. Perhaps you will have something fo interest to say. Come seek me at the Embassy. Ears there belong to me and should not be a problem."

Rosalie Marcada · Post by **Rosalie Marcada** » Sun Feb 03, 2008 9:03 pm

Rosalie did not rush forward. She sat upright regally, observing the goings on with a proud look that almost, but not quite lest it be offensive, spoke of disdain for all those eager women that pressed themselves under the attention of the Caesar. Little mousy girls. Her amber eyes found those ladies that like herself held back, confident in their own position. They begged watching.

The Ambassador of the Mouth may enjoy looking upon handsome men but it was only a pleasant pass time that she did not take serious at all. The merchant princess knew what was truly important in life and she had typically found it in some place that no Imperial politician, with the focus on nobility and court intrigue, would have thought to look, yet which no true citizen of the Mouth would ignore: crime and trade, always intertwined. Money made the world go round, even in the Empire where it was coated with noble sounding titles and charters. The Baron possessed hidden depths, proving himself equal to his wife in cunning and influence. It was more than Rose could have hoped for in a husband.

Keaira Morgandy · Post by **Keaira Morgandy** » Mon Feb 04, 2008 5:13 am

Tigre watched from behind Keaira's eyes as Andolin flashed his inviting smile, a sneer forming on her lips. He's disgusting, she thought to herself, easily recognizing how he was playing with both girls, greedily craving all the attention he could garner. But he was not unlike her, and that was intriguing. The lips that the Caesar could see curled into a lopsided smile of mischief, a quick wink offered ere he looked away.

As the steward made his announcement, Keaira didn't move, smiling coquettishly as she was crowded about by the countless others seeking the Caesar's attention. Tigre, lurking somewhere in the depths of Keaira's psyche, laughed darkly at them. And what can you offer him? He will take all of it, and he will not be satisfied.

He must know we are different.

Keaira wasn't sure why she felt such disdain for the girls crowding around her, they were only wishing the same thing as she. Yet she felt almost disgusted by them, and most certainly she felt above them. Her chin lifted slightly as she kept her gaze locked on the Caesar. She couldn't see it, but a soft glow crept noticeably into her brilliant blue orbs, so that they seemed lit from within.

Tigre, comfortable in the darkness of Keaira's most secret desires, was hardly distracted by the bustle around Keaira. No, she was more interested in that Andolin fellow. To him, Keaira was simply another pretty girl in the crowd; nothing remarkable about her save for body and beauty. He needed to know there was more to her than that.

As Keaira stood quiet and patient, Tigre began to concentrate, pushing herself forward just slightly in the girl's mind. She focused on the disgust she felt for the wenches crowding her host's body, the hatred she had for their idiocy and their foolishness. She waited until she could feel it welling up inside of her, threatening to become too much to bear -- until she wanted to lash out at them herself. Then, she pushed it outward. Gently at first, allowing it to expand and grow, Tigre attempted to form that disdain into a tangible aura, one uncomfortable enough to repel those nearest to her, to form it around Keaira's body and push out in all directions. Her goal was to clear the area around the girl, at least in a two or three foot radius, so that she would not be lost in the crowd.

Anora Frollie · Post by **Anora Frollie** » Mon Feb 04, 2008 3:05 pm

Normal behavior for Anora called for her to blend into a crowd, but something in the back of her mind reminded her that if she were to get into that group, her target, Andolin would never spot her. And she would find temptation too strong to keep from lifting a bracelet or two. Giving Varesh's arm a squeeze, she caught sight of the top-heavy girl who had been giving her dirty looks. Now the girl was standing alone, looking all too sure of herself. Yes, there were others who were doing the same thing, but there was something truly...off-setting about the girl.

Scanning the area, she spotted a servant with a tray of wine. Moving that way, she deftly slipped one full glass off and began to 'wander'. Watching her, one would think she didn't have any particular place in mind. Her eyes flashed every so often towards Andolin, keeping track of where he was and giving him a come hither smile when he glanced her way. Finally, she was close to Keaira.

As she was a few feet away, suddenly the nimble feet of the pickpocket seemed to lose their grace as she 'tripped', sending the wine flying towards the other girl, a bit of extra force behind the spill done with nimble fingers.

Vanir Alfheim · Post by **Vanir Alfheim** » Tue Feb 05, 2008 2:58 am

Vanir grinned at the beautiful desert flower and spoke in a teasing voice. "They are not my followers, Lady Isis, for all things I do are in Pan's name, yet certain events have decreased his followers among this isle, something I am going to change. If Lord Azarin can become Caesar Andolin, then anything is possible. The winds are shifting, one must change with them or be blown away. Shall I come by tomorrow or perhaps later this night?" A quick wink from the priest and his charming grin accompanied the question. He had no illusions of seducing Isis, yet knew the game which they both played so well.

"Now as far as my reputation...well it is simply words from those that know nothing of truth. I do not expect my reputation to be a problem, especially when other matters are settled." There was a shadow of something dark in the adhiel's eyes, which disappeared quickly. "However, my reputation of some manner of grace and skill are quite true. Would the lady care to test them with a dance? Nothing would honor me more." For now...

Andolin · Post by **Andolin** » Tue Feb 05, 2008 7:52 am

"A lady will do fine," he replied to his Steward. His tastes did not extend to the male of the species.

Arising from his throne as the announcement was made, Andolin tried to fight a frown as it seemed that whomever he picked first would be deemed to be have the inside path to life partner status, when such was not the case. Had Kitya been alive and well, he might have chosen her. But, the redheaded beauty that he had known so well, was no longer herself.

That meant that his eyes searched for the dimwitted blond, Etain, that had been so enthralled with him. It had helped that he had cast a glamour on her long ago, but he no longer needed that.

As he looked for her, his eyes searched out other possibilities. As Isis and Rosalie were married, that crossed them off his list for the first dance. No use starting tongues wagging so soon. Had Ashari been there, he would have likely chosen her first. But, she was nowhere to be seen. There was Sezja as well. He merely smiled in her direction. He preferred to keep her in the background without much notice.

That left Lucinda, which might be amusing, and the other two that were giving him more than inviting glances. There was something about Keaira that caught his interest. As he watched her very blue eyes find his own, he noticed the more lithe female, Anora cast him inviting glances and then proceed to spill wine on the other woman. Was that move intentional? It was hard to say. He merely smiled, hoping that it was.

Before making his final choice, he walked down from the dais to survey all other women in the crowd to see if he found familiar faces or someone else more intriguing. He wanted to be sure he considered everyone that was interesting.

Tristam · Post by **Tristam** » Tue Feb 05, 2008 3:59 pm

Leaving Ssinith and Thrandil to their conversation, Lady Vlast took a few steps away to place her self in an open spot. Like Isis and Rosalie she did nothing obvious to attract attention to herself. Her obsidian skin twinkling with little flashes of blue from her sapphire dust makeup was sufficient to do that. Her lithe form and easy grace was a natural dancer's physique.

As Andolin descended to survey the crowd, Vlast coolly moved again to another open spot where she might be noticed. When Andolin's gaze met hers she graced him with a feline smile.

Rosalie Marcada · Post by **Rosalie Marcada** » Tue Feb 05, 2008 6:20 pm

It was interesting how the crowds fled from certain girls, who suddenly found themselves in an open spot. Perhaps they have a peculiar smell that make them socially undesirable, Rosalie speculated. Or of course, she amended as she observed a girl tripping and spilling her glass, covered with wine, which must reek as well, not to mention the stains that will never go out of that dress again. Oh, I wouldn't be see dead in that.

Yes, the air was full of cattiness and it amused Rosalie. It didn't look like the Caesar was in a hurry, playing all his options. He'll dance with one and wink at another while making promises to a third and ordering a fourth up to his bedroom. Ah, the endless waiting game.

Andolin · Post by **Andolin** » Sat Feb 09, 2008 7:53 pm

Rosalie's thoughts were not far off from what Andolin was thinking. Rather, he might like to find a way to have all four women in his bedroom, rather than one. He felt like celebrating after all.

The dark lithe shape of Lady Vlast caught his eye. As she gave him a feline smile, he returned it with a wolfish one. In his young life, Andolin had come to interpret feline smiles as an open challenge that the woman thought she could best him and make him her slave. That will never happen. The first dance was never one to dance with such a person, for she would seek to scare away all other feminine interest. No, he preferred to sample the weak and the strong. He preferred the strong, but not if they kept him from his other games. Thus, his gaze slipped onward. We shall meet later.

He had yet to find the simpleton Etain. She would have been the perfect first dance, for she would place no hold upon him for the second, or so he thought.

Fialessa Valenstri · Post by **Fialessa Valenstri** » Tue Feb 12, 2008 1:29 am

Vanir having long wandered of to his own amusements, Fialessa figured she should do the same. Sipping a glass of wine, she wandered the throng in attendance and allowed her eyes to slip over the myriad unfamiliar faces. Occasionally, and as was natural, her eyes did find rest upon the man of the evening. Of course she'd no interest in him herself, having only heard snippets from Vanir. Granted her friend's opinion might be biased in his own favour.

Lazily she watched the little games, ladies falling all over themselves and even spilling drinks on others just for Andolin's attentions. Amused she bit back a laugh and smiled instead. Her eyes moved along, as did she, in her slow walk avoiding the larger crowds and the girl throwing wine.

Post by **Grey Wolf** » Tue Feb 12, 2008 7:59 pm

Kitya was simply not there. She was alive and physically well, but Lord Redault did not wish to expose her to public scrutiny and even had she decided to come it was debatable if Captain Summers would have allowed her to attend. The burly commander of the Imperial Guard did not care how beautiful, sexy or attractive a girl was, or how much the Caesar craved for a dance with her. Psychopathic murderer was a danger no matter how perfect her breasts were. Neither she nor the dimwitted Etain were there, though Citadel court was hardly lacking in beauties that evening. All he had to do is imagine what he liked and it was a safe bet that he would be able to pick a girl of his dreams out of the crowd. There were so many beauties than none truly stood out, though perhaps a dark-skinned lady in an icy blue dress that stood almost half a foot taller than he could be called unique. She must have had a hint of half-giant blood in her veins, though it was reputed that such a thing was impossible.

It would be far easier to pick a girl who did not rush forth to be chosen, than to pick one that expressed her wish to be Andolin's partner, the number of ladies hanging back quite a bit smaller. Of those most were either too old, or with far too little confidence to actually come forward despite their desires. The rest..... The rest were those secure in their position, either through power, wealth of beauty they possessed, and in a few cases a combination of those mixed together. Other had husbands, or lovers at their sides, and they were not willing to risk the affection of men, and in a few cases women, at their side, for a far off chance they might garner the Caesar's attention. Last, but not the least were the ones that hated His Majesty's guts and wanted nothing to do with him.

As it were Anora's little ploy worked like a charm, the wine spilling nicely, splattering right across Keaira's bosom, doing quite fine towards ruining her dress. In a way it had most likely saved the former Madame quite a bit of pain, the protective wards placed upon the Great Hall wrenching the energy she put into the spell, drawing it out, and then consuming even more. They were subtle, yet at the same time brutal in their efficiency, the cold wine breaking the girl's concentration and saving her from collapsing onto the floor unconscious. A few droplets sailed past her dress, landing on the beautiful snow white gown of a woman Andolin would recognize, Ygraine's angry gaze turning towards Anora, Haut-Ledoc's daughter hissing at the little thief angrily. "Clumsy bitch. I'll have you whipped."

Vanir found himself under Isis' gaze, the beautiful Amunic Queen regarding him for several long flickers, the edge of her lips curled up into a mocking smile. "Well, aren't you a rather arrogant little man. Do you truly think having the courage to approach Voice of Rafao is enough to grant you a dance. Watch it, or even the audience I might grant you might become an impossible goal." He was a handsome man, and he had a reputation as a lover, but it seemed that Isis was not impressed by either at the moment. A perfectly sculpted brow arched, as she awaited his reply, giving him a few flickers to do so, before turning back to regard Andolin as he descended the steps.

Keaira Morgandy · Post by **Keaira Morgandy** » Tue Feb 12, 2008 8:42 pm

Keaira had been vaguely aware of a strange sensation of anger that had begun to almost crawl over her skin -- but almost instantly she felt as if it were pulled away, and she found herself growing tired. It was as almost as if the energy was being drained from her very bones, and Keaira swooned slightly, looking away from Andolin in time to see Anora stumbling, glass of wine in hand. She might have fainted were it not for the fact that she suddenly found cold wine splashed across her bosom, shock becoming apparent on her features as the sharp contrast of cold liquid on warm skin tore her out of her swoon and caused her to stand upright in surprise.

Inwardly, Tigre was shocked and confused by the complete uselessness of her spell, never having had experience with wards before. She was even more alarmed as she felt the energy being sucked out of Keaira's body, and upon finding that she was powerless to sever it. Yet just as she began to feel faint from it, Keaira jerked. Apparently someone had spilled wine on her. Tigre was weary, but she could still see, and as Keaira looked toward Anora, Tigre scowled. Clumsy bitch, she thought, echoing the other woman's accusation. But she had been weakened by the wards and kept quiet, leaving Keaira to deal with the situation herself.

"Oh," was all Keaira said, the glow in her eyes gone, leaving only the innocent, naive girl behind. Where she might have had a cruel tone before, her voice was instead all softness and gentle tones. She looked so simple and helpless that it might have occurred to Anora that indirectly attacking her like that could have been compared to kicking a startled deer. There was no trace of the venom she had visually directed at Anora only moments ago. Had she spilled wine on the wrong woman?

If Anora was going to continue to feign accident, she would no doubt give her apologies, and Keaira would of course shake her head and smile sweetly. It was not in her nature to be vindictive, unlike the other woman the smaller girl had angered, and in the light of conflict she suddenly desired escape, any thoughts she had of garnering the Caesar's attention gone. Pity, though, he'd missed out on quite a catch.

With a murmured assurance to Anora that all was well, Keaira withdrew, intending to return to the safety of her room at the Burpin' Dragon. Tigre may have been a social creature, but Keaira felt rather uncomfortable suddenly, and sought to exit the ceremony at once.

Andolin · Post by **Andolin** » Wed Feb 13, 2008 2:19 am

It was a pity that the brainless blond, Etain, was nowhere to be found. She would be a safe first dance. That caused Andolin's attention to turn elsewhere.

He noted the throng of pretties in the crowd. It was akin to a bakery with every sort of treat imaginable. He even saw a half giant in the crowd. That might be an amusement unto itself, but not this night. No, he was in search of more traditional amusement.

As he saw the wine splatter on Keaira as well as Ygraine, Andolin smiled and moved in that direction. This was too priceless to ignore. Ygraine knew something of his secret, as she was a creature of Lucinda ... though so self-absorbed that it was hard to determine that she was anyone's creature. He had already tasted her carnal charms on one lazy afternoon, and it gave him something of a power over her, at least in his own mind.

Signalling his Steward as he walked towards the trio, he had plans for the wine-stained gowns. As he saw Keaira start to depart, he whispered to the Steward, "catch the girl and tell her we will have our launderesses clean her outfit. Take her to a room near my quarters, have her disrobe, and place a guard outside the room so that she does not leave. Tell her it is to ensure her privacy. See that she waits until morningtide to receive her gown back and see to it that she has plenty of wine to drink while she waits. I will come and pay a personal visit to her later," he offered with a knowing smile. She would be on his dancecard afterall tonight, just not in the ballroom.

Moving up to Anora and Ygraine, Andolin greeted the darkhaired porcelain cruel beauty with a "Lady Ygraine, how lovely to see you." His tone was cheerful, laced with feigned innocence. "Do you want this woman whipped?" he asked in a more judicious tone.

Turning to Anora, he appraised her feminine form. It was not the equal of others he had admired, but she had her own tasty charm. "What is your name?" he asked the clumsy girl. "You may either offer to pay the lady to repair her dress, or submit to a whipping." He was quick to add, "As the new Caesar, I will see personally to the whipping and it will be done privately to protect your modesty." he fought the wolfish grin that tugged at the corners of his mouth. Already he was imagining a naked Anora chained to a wall, a whip in his hand, and ... well, the rest of the vision caused his long dormant ardor to rise. By the looks the clumsy girl had been throwing him, he was certain she would choose the whipping.

Vanir Alfheim · Post by **Vanir Alfheim** » Wed Feb 13, 2008 2:59 am

Vanir never flinched as he was berated by the noble beauty. The charming smile never left his lips, nor his eyes from her face. Arrogance was a part of it, yet it there was more flickering behind his eyes than mere confidence. He was a man possessed by his own goals, dancing was merely an indulgence. The priest spoke softly in his honeyed voice so common to women around him.

"Lady Isis, arrogance and bravery are much the same thing, yet neither has to do with me asking for a dance. Of course you may simply have gotten used to men only gaping at you and succumbing to your will that you are not prepared for being asked to a simple dance. Dancing is one of the most basic rituals of Court after all." Vanir shrugged his eyebrows in mock sympathy. "A pity when a beautiful woman has forgotten how to simply have fun."

Vanir turned to walk away from the Amunic Queen, before glancing back at her. "Our meeting benefits you as much as me, yet I have no need of your help to complete my goals. It all depends on how much you enjoy your current position or if you'd rather expand it."

Anora Frollie · Post by **Anora Frollie** » Wed Feb 13, 2008 3:34 am

Anora hid the smile that wanted to crease her lips as Keaira seemed to melt right in front of her, though confusion also swiftly flew across her eyes. That was a bit more dramatic than she was expecting. Suddenly, some whiny wench (Ygraine) was yelling at her. One brow rose as she threatened to have her whipped. She was about to tell the girl where she could jam her whip when Andolin stepped in.

Turning to face him, she kept her brow cocked as her head tilted slightly. "I see. So I am to be punished for an accident?" There was a challenge in her voice, stating that she wasn't the least bit afraid of him. Then, turning back to the other woman, she said, "I will gladly apologize, but offer no more compensation, nor can I. I did not aim to get anything on your dress, Lady Ygraine, and for having done so, I do apologize. But accidents do happen."

Then she turned back to Andolin. Her aquamarine eyes met his squarely, though she had to look up to meet them. "Now, Your Highness, if you think accidents rate a whipping, then I turn myself over to you for judgement, for you are the Ceaser," she said, the brow kept aloft, her eyes all but daring him to do so. "Oh, and my name is Anora." She didn't seem scared in the least of his judgement, nor was she.

Rosalie Marcada · Post by **Rosalie Marcada** » Wed Feb 13, 2008 10:48 am

Rosalie was oblivious to the way that the Caesar was planning to celebrate his coronation later in the night. She might have pretended moral shock if she did, to hide any real feelings she might have felt. Ignorant of the plotting she instead grew increasingly bored, repressing a yawn. Had he not chosen a dance partner yet? Now really, he ought to have let his steward deal with the clumsy girls.

The Ambassador arched an eyebrow at Deacon, turning to him, whispering "Who is that dark haired girl that screeched so? She must think she's quite powerful to do so in front of the Caesar."

Post by **Grey Wolf** » Mon Feb 18, 2008 6:37 pm

A pair of blue eyes surveyed the scene, the blond giant once more regretting the responsibility that had been placed upon his broad shoulders, wishing for a hundredth time that he could simply do what felt right and not what was good for the interests of the Western Kingdom. The old Hagen would have tossed a purse of coins in front of Caesar's feet, a sarcastic payment for the ruined dress and then would have simply left the Ceremony to show his displeasure. Had Rosalie been absent he might have even been tempted to do so regardless of his duties, but he would not allow that treacherous woman to gain an upper hand for her and her equally treacherous city. He allowed himself a subtle growl of displeasure, causing his steward to flinch as he half expected the tall paladin to succumb to his impulses. Once more, Frederick proved why people felt so uneasy around him, reason and logic overruling emotions and impulse, his sigh echoing that he was no longer tempted by folly.

Crowd had moved aside, making a tight circle about the trio of ladies and the newly crowned Caesar, Lord Varesh somehow managing to push himself to the edge of the crowd, a small pouch of coins bouncing in his palm, as he cast a glance at Anora. He was ready to pay for the dress if she wished him to do so, the arch of his brows showing his interest in the current situation, the little thief having gained exactly what she wanted. A chance to work her charm on the ruler of the Empire of Seven Isles, a measly whipping a price she might need to pay for it. His eyes went to the purse, as his hand began to move away from sight, moving the money to the safety of his pocket. It moved slowly, giving the girl plenty of time to reply.

Deacon leaned closer to the Baroness Marcada following her gaze to Ygraine and whispering discreetly, keeping his eyes on the situation as it unfolded before them. "That is Ygraine Haut-Ledoc, daughter of Guilhelm Haut-Ledoc, owner of the Risque. She has a reputation for being a bit arrogant and headstrong, and I am sure we shall be a witness to both of those traits before the evening is done." He paused, glancing towards Andolin for a flicker before adding. "It seems the Caesar is either not familiar with those traits, or..... Well, I must admit I am not quite so knowledgeable about His Majesty. Perhaps a little catching up is in order." He smiled and waited a few more flickers in his bowed state, waiting to see if Rosalie had more questions.

There was something quite satisfying in crushing a man's hopes, the divinely beautiful Voice of Rafao finding it much akin to holding a man's testicles firmly in hand and making him whimper at the implied thread of a crushing pain. Perhaps we shall have a chance to see how our adorable High Priest of Pan would behave in such a situation yet. I am certain he wants me. And life is so much more fun when it is full of surprises. Even of the kind I have planned for him. She chuckled at her words, ignoring the scene that unraveled within the crowd, leaving Andolin to his fun, noting the suggestion of a whipping as something to remember and perhaps explore at a later date. She did not look at Vanir instead adding over her shoulder in an off-handed manner. "A pity when a man focuses on easy conquests and does not persist in pursuing a worthier catch. They do say good things are worth the wait and definitely worth fighting for." She glanced over her shoulder, pursing her lips to make them fuller, as she smiled, looking at the handsome priest under lowered lashes.

Ygraine was fuming, not so much because of a destroyed dress, but because she loved being the center of attention and Andolin got a few brownie points for giving her just that. "Apologies don't cost anything, Anora." She turned to Andolin and bowed, her gaze locked on dark-haired man's eyes. "I thank Your Highness for being so merciless towards stupidity." She paused casting a glance towards Anora quickly scrutinizing the clumsy girl, for a flicker her smile growing less cruel, finally softening into a more wicked one, as she glanced back at Andolin. "As a damaged party I would like to witness the punishment being dealt out to Anora, if Your Highness permits it?" She glanced up, looking straight into Andolin's eyes, making it quite obvious what she meant by her suggestion.

Keaira found herself in a tight circle of courtiers, though most of the attention was on the Caesar and the other two girls, a man of perhaps fifty yahren coming to her side. Peter stroked his beard for a flicker, before leaning closer to whisper discreetly. "Milady, His Majesty offers you the services of a Palace laundresses. He is very sorry about your ruined dress and has offered to have you as his guest until your dress is ready. I will have a room prepared for you when you are ready to leave." He paused, waiting to see if she had any orders before he withdrew to make Caesar's will into reality.