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Post by Empress Isabel de Roque on Nov 8, 2021 22:56:50 GMT
The group from Moderal stepped off the train, the two men furiously whispering to the soldiers they had with them seemingly instructing them on what to do. The two women looked relatively bored and were looking around the city almost disintrested. If one were paying attention they would see that the procession had lost two of its members, and two Moderelian looking men wearing typical Magdalenum civilian clothing. were walking off in a different direction to their kinsman, long cases strung across their shoulder, matching those on the soldiers nearby.
General de Sousa approached the Moderalian delegation. He noticed something was off, but he couldn't tell exactly what. Nevertheless, he signaled the nearby RAFIA agent, who was disguised as a soldier, to keep an eye out.
"Hello again, please, follow me outside."
Rodica turned to face him and bowed slightly, "of course." She then turned to her compaitriots and signaled them to follow the General.
As the group made their way outside, the Magdal, already admittedly pretty tired of just standing there waiting for the guests, walked towards the Moderalian delegation. Seeing this, Isabel quickly followed suit.
"Welcome to Magalhães, your Lordships," he said. "I trust the voyage was pleasant?" (edited)
Rodica quickly took the lead, the others falling behind her.
"Thank you, It is a quite a picturesque place. Our journey was pleasant enough, we are used to rough sea journeys. They happen quite frequently at home." She bowed quickly toward the oldest member of the greeting party. "I am Rodica Gasca, and this is Sorin Arme, Ionesco Razboi, and Bogdan Lupta."
"A Pleasure to meet you all," said Afonsus. "Please, accept these badges of Honor of the Order of the Tower and Sword. I trust they'll compliment your attire perfectly."
He then bowed, and signaled the guards to direct the Moderalians to their carriage. When they were out of earshot, one of the RAFIA agents disguised as one of the Magdal's Royal Guard whispered:
"Your Highness, they have agents in our ranks, though we don't know exactly who."
"Keep watch," he replied. "I want to catch them by surprise. We are not so easily fooled."
The Moderelian party went quickly to their carriage. Speaking little more. The two soldiers who left the party made their way through the city quietly cases tightly locked and kept on their back. They entered an inn and asked in perfect, if accented Magdalese for a room producing some currency to pay.
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Post by Empress Isabel de Roque on Nov 9, 2021 0:45:47 GMT
With the reception over, the Magdal and Isabel sat on their own carriage, General de Sousa ran to the front of the line of carriages, where the band, Sadaler, and part of the Tholish troops where. The rest of the soldiers formed two lines, one on each side of the procession of carriages. "Alright men, we march!" the grizzled man screamed. With this, the procession moved on through the main arteries of the city. People pushed against the safety barriers, desperately wanting to catch a glimpse of the Magdal and his guests. For many, it was the first time they had been to the Capital, let alone seen the Royal family. The trains in the Station let a last saluting toot off their horns, before returning to Angra to pick up the rest of the soldiers. Hengist, finally free from that damnable cloak, stared out at the strange people of Magdalenum, how different they were and yet how similar! It was still hard to process that this would be his new home but he didn't particularly have a choice in the matter, not that the situation was particularly displeasing to Hengist though at the day it was an arranged marriage. Wilhelm quietly sat thinking over every hidden weapon on his person and every potential pitfall that could strike. Though this should be a happy occasion he still felt nervous after all he was so far from his native ringsea, who knows what unseen danger might lurk just beyond? Ludwig as always when he is nervous counted every crack and flaw in the carriage wall desperately trying to distract himself from the fact that he'll meet his betrothed. Despite his best effort those intrusive thoughts wormed their way in. What if she is cruel? What if I embarrass myself? What if Alwin is right and she's a snake just like Catherine? The Procession turned and twisted through the Capital, until it reached the heart of the city, where the Royal Temple was. There the guest left the carriages, and took places on the front seats of the temple. Local Nobles poured into the Temple as well, with the townspeople pouring into the Temple's plaza, peeking through the windows, and even trying to reach the upper galleries. The Bride and Groom were each taken to separate side rooms, where last minute preparations would be made. Isabel got dressed in her wedding dress, and had her hair fixed, as it had gotten slightly undone when she jolted on the altercation with the Tholish soldier. The choir on the upper gallery sung nuptial chants, and the Grand Priestess made her way into the Altar, awaiting the ceremony's beginning. Hengist sat as servants did their final look over him before the wedding. Suddenly Stithulf, a member of Hengist's honor guard, stepped from behind him, "well your big day is finally here. are you ready?" Hengist turned and let out a grimace, "as ready as I'll ever be." Stithulf gave Hengist a reassuring laugh and clapped him on the back (earning him a glare from one of the servants working on Hengist's appearance), "you faced hell and back in doum what's a little pomp and ceremony at a wedding?" Hengist sighed "I suppose." Suddenly another member of Hengist's honor guard burst into the room, "the ceremony is about to begin." Again Stithulf grinned, "well Hengist the time has come for you to dance with fate... and that pretty bride too I suppose." Chatter rang throughout the Temple. People whispered and gossiped, some even dared to speak out loud. When suddenly, the Grand Priestess hit the ground with her staff. The loud bang of wood against marble completely silencing the guests. The Organ began to wheeze, and then it breathed to life. The first to walk to the altar were the Groom, and his father by his side.
Hengist's heart pounded as he walked down the aisle of the strange pagan temple he was to be wed in. After what seemed to be a lifetime though it only was a few brief moments Hengist reached the altar and Wilhelm grasped Hengist's shoulder and whispered "strength" so quietly that Hengist wasn't sure if he even heard it before turning away. The crowd inside stood when they noticed the Groom walking up the temple. Time seemed to stop, during the few seconds between Hengist arriving at the altar, and Isabel appearing from her chamber. She walked solemnly, hand in hand with her father, slowing making their way across the aisle. Afonsus' advanced age showed, he was clearly struggling to keep a consistent pace. Before the Bride could climb the couple of stairs to the altar itself, Afonsus tightened his grip on her hand, and whispered "You look as beautiful as she did." he smiled, with hints of tears in his eyes. Isabel made her way up the stairs, and Afonsus retired to his seat, near Wilhelm and the rest of his enterauge. The Grand Priestess stood. The entire temple fell silent. "It was Thetis that first gave birth to all of creation, and pledged to watch over us as her children. It is from her love of us that we first learned to love one another. It is from this love that we learn that a life lived alone, is no life at all." she said, turning to the aisle. From the bottom, The Lord Mayor's children ran down the aisle. They carried the wedding rings, in a silver box adorned with ivory and jewels. Tears now visibly ran down Afonsus' face. "We gather here today, under Thetis' loving gaze, to bear witness to the union of these two souls in eternal matrimony. May they journey forth together, in prosperity, and poverty, and in joy and hardship. May the Gods watch over Her Most Faithful Majesty Isabel Afonses de Roque, and His Majesty Ætheling Hengist Cransnikov, and may they live a long, fruitful marriage." said the Priestess, turning to Hengist. "Do you, Hengist Cransnikov, agree to be bound to Isabel Afonses de Roque, in love, now and forever?" Hengist swallowing a lump in his throat replied, "I do". "And do you, Isabel Afonses de Roque, agree to be bound to Hengist Cransnikov, in love, now and forever?" "I do, now and forever." said Isabel, mustering an awkward smile. "Then may I present to the two of you with these matching rings, blessed by the Gods' divine grace. May they protect each of you in your new life together. And, as Thetis and Juno are my witnesses, I declare this couple, to be wed. The Groom may now kiss the Bride."
At the sound of the nuptial fanfare, the populace outside came alive in an uproar of cheers and celebrations. The stained glass windows of the temple vibrated, so big was the cacophony of cheers, songs, and applause. The artillery regiments on the outskirts of the city fired 10 salvos of blank rounds in a salute. The bells of the clock tower carillon rang the National anthem, and even the Navy's ships, all the way back in Angra, saluted the newlyweds. |
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Post by Empress Isabel de Roque on Nov 9, 2021 21:16:39 GMT
With the ceremony adjourned the bride and groom walked out across the isle and the temple. Standing directly from the gates forward were a hundred Tholish officers forming a saber arch. The newlywed couple walked through the arch to thunderous applause, until suddenly, right as they were to pass beyond, the last two officers lowered their sabers. In a thunderous parade ground voice Stithulf called out, "HALT! There is a toll to pass!" At this Hengist bristled, and replied in harsh danish, "I swear to god you Danish weasel I will flay you alive and boil you in oil if you do not let us pass." Stithulf's facade broke for a moment letting out a Cheshire grin, "To pass you two must kiss!" Hengist sighed at Stithulf's antics and still slightly irked Hengist and Isabel acquiesced, much to the crowd and the officer's pleasure.
With the toll paid, the couple boarded the Kingdom's most prized carriage, completely covered from top to bottom with gilded woodcarvings. The procession now departed from the Temple, once again through the main arteries of the Capital, and out to the outskirts, where it would climb the hill to Penha Palace, the residence of the Royal Family. The couple smiled and waved to the ecstatic crowd, who followed the convoy of carriages out of the city. Many would leave, some would remain in the Palace outskirts. Now was time for the ball. Drinks and food aplenty, comprised of only the finest Magdali delicacies.
The Moderelian delegation was the first to arrive at the reception, moving silently and quickly up to the reception. They approached the couple, where Rodica asked them a question.
"What should we call you?"
There was a brief moments of silence as the bride and groom looked at each other before Hengist responded, "Roque and Cransnikov-Roque."
"Well then, this gift is for the Roques." Rodica proceeds to reach into her outer jacket and produce a slim decorated dagger.
"This is for you and your family. It is usually given to new family by the ones closest to them. However, I do not think anyone else would follow the tradition. This will be passed from eldest child to eldest child, hopefully bringing you good fortune."
"I am honored, Lady Rodica," said Isabel, gesturing towards the door to the ball room. "Please, come inside."
"Thank you. Enjoy your wedding." She continues inside, the three others followed silently.
Duke Estrana entered the building followed by his daughter. For once, she had the forethought to keep to her fathers side.
“Congratulations you two. May your marriage be fruitful”, the Duke said warmly, reminiscing on his own wedding. He gave the groom a half smile, adding “And I’ll thank any god imaginable once I know I won’t have to face you on the field”.
Hengist grimaced at the half-compliment and replied, "surely it'll be me counting my luck stars to not have to face such a great boar on the battlefield, though let us worry of such matters tomorrow you should enjoy yourself." Hengist turned to dympha, "likewise, I hope you find the celebrations pleasing."
“Thank you, Sir”, she replied, bowing as best she could with the parcel clutched in her hands.
“I have already given your wife her gift. But I was tasked with procuring this specifically for you.”
As if carrying an infant, she presented an illuminated manuscript to the man. Runic figures had been drawn on the vellum cover, but it was obvious they had long ago been masked into the design of some monk. The title read “The Lamentations of Aoife”.
She proceeded with her explanation.
“Cat heard you enjoy poetry? This story is said by the Aerali’i priestesses, to have been told before our people migrated to Divinium. It is a piece of our shared history, and one of a kind. The Aerali’i are traditionally forbidden from writing their stories down. It is the only copy we know of. And now, it is yours.”
Hengist stared wide-eyed at the gift for a moment... "I truly do not know what to say other than that I will cherish it sincerely... though I must admit I will need to practice my Latin if I am to recite it by heart like the Scops, regardless your gift is most appreciated and your generosity will not be forgotten." With that Hengist bowed and moved to let the two pass into the reception room.
A little later Duke Aleksander entered the palace and headed for the bride and groom. In his hand he clutched a letter from his mother inside of which was a top secret message for the bride.
"Good Evening, your Highnesses." began the Duke.
"I have been requested by my mother to hand you this letter which is for your eyes and your fathers only."
"That includes your husband."
"Why thank you!" said Isabel, desperately trying not to remind herself that this... child, would've been where Hengist is, had her father not reacted quickly enough. For that much, she was thankful. "I'll make sure to pass this to my father. Please, head on in, Mother Maria will tell you where to go."
At the boy's words Hengist could only muster a strained smile, though inside he was anything but smiling. Truly does Doum's treachery know no bounds? Even in this most holy day of celebration Duom's dark machinations still spin. To think good men gave their lives for that queen and her lies. Hengist tried to silence these thoughts and hoped for more pleasant company to arrive.
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Post by Empress Isabel de Roque on Nov 10, 2021 2:04:10 GMT
Afonsus made his way up the stairs. Even though this was his Palace, tonight, it belonged to the newlyweds.
"Ah, and here is the happy couple," he said, smiling. "You remind me a lot of myself and Queen Fernanda, you know. So young, so full of energy. But you've heard enough of the ramblings of an old man."
"This is for you, young man," Said the Magdal, turning to Hengist. "You're Magdali Royalty now, you ought to look the part." One of the Magdal's guards came forth, and presented a sabre, made from the finest Eastern Province steel. the Handle grip was made of Ivory with gilded engravings of nautical themes, and the guard was silver plated steel. To hold it all in one place, there was a golden pommel with a relief of a Magdali-style crown.
Hengist accepted the gift with a bow, "thank you... sir?" He tested the blade's balance with his hand, and upon seeing that the blade was properly weighted, touched the edge smiling, as the blade cut his thumb without any force needed.
"You can call me Afonsus," said the old Magdal, giggling despite himself. "We're family now. It might take you a while to acclimate yourself to this, but you'll come around eventually. I know I did."
"And you, young lady," he said, turning to Isabel. "I'm so proud of you. She'd be so happy if she was here."
He bowed, and began to move on to the ball room. "Now, no need to tell me where to go. I'm sure I can find my way around. Have a good night you two!"
The carriage carrying the Marstons slowly made its way up the hill, and into the Palace. They were dropped off at the entrance to the building itself, where the couple awaited their arrival. (edited)
Stepping out of the Carriage, Garend Marston noticed the newly weds waiting for him and the family, he helped his two children out and quickly walked over to Hengist and Isabel.
"Congratulations you two! Very lovely to see two royals wedded to one another who seem so perfect for eachother!"
"Thank you, Mister Garend," said Isabel. "Today's been... special. Very rarely have I ever felt so joyous."
"It's good to hear, and I hope you both have as happy a marriage as Elena and I have, it is strange to think that was almost twenty years ago now, that time has flown by."
Hengist, uncertain if he should address his elder as a peer or better, gave Marston a courteous, if conservative, bow, "Your well wishes are most appreciated, it is good to see that those who speak highly of you in my homeland are right."
"I am honoured to hear that I am spoken so highly of in West Thosel Cransconia, however that is enough about myself, please, meet my daughter and son, Lilly and Renard."
"Ah, our young ringbearers! We'll have plenty of time to get to know eachother tomorrow." said Isabel, smiling warmly. "If it would please the Mister, I'd like to tour the Palace with the young ones, before the talks tomorrow."
"That is alright," Marston said happily, "Just don't let them run off on you!"
"It is agreed then. This way please." She said, as Wilhelm began to make his way to where the couple was.
Wilhelm and Ludwig strode to the couple pride beaming from them. Wilhelm clasped hengist's shoulder, "You did magnificently, t'was a beautiful sight. " at that he turned and offered Isabel a smile, "May your marriage be long and fruitful." With that Wilhelm strode into the reception. Ludwig on the other hand only offered Hengist a nod and Isabel a bow. Though sparse this was more than enough after all there was nothing left to say between the brothers that had not already been said.
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Post by Empress Isabel de Roque on Nov 13, 2021 18:12:11 GMT
The ball began in earnest. Drinks and food aplenty, along with plenty of dancing and festivities. Divinan waltzes were played, and the couple had their first dance. It was hard to tell if Isabel's excellent dancing was because of her training, or because of how drunk she was by the end of the night. In truth, the vast majority of the guests were very inebriated by the end of the ball. Afonsus did warn the guests about how strong Magdali fortified wine got, but it seems it had been for naught. He giggled despite himself, seeing Lady Estrana desperately trying to keep her composure.
The event ended by midnight, with fireworks all across the city. The guests were taken to their respective rooms, and given tea to deal with the hangovers.
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Post by Empress Isabel de Roque on Nov 16, 2021 2:47:06 GMT
The day of the talks has arrived. Most guests will have the morning free to explore the city and to deal with the hangovers, while Afonsus prepares himself for the talks. A summary of the events happening in Tanysira was written up and sent to the quarters of Duke Aodhan, while the guests that were not invited to the talks began to leave. Except for young Aleksander, who because of instructions sent by his mother, was to remain in the Kingdom, for now. He tagged along with Isabel and the Lord Mayor's children, while they toured the Palace.
Wilhelm sat with his nephews looking out across the great foreign city of Magalhães while having a cup of tea. Truly Wilhelm hadn't felt such peace since before this whole affair began. During the party he had to insure that he spoke and mingled with the correct people and maintained the correct appearance, and even afterwards while recovering from his hangover he had to ensure that guests departed with gifts of Tholish bone porcelain,
Pictish whiskey, and letters. Despite this brief moment of peace Wilhelm still could not shake a bit of melancholy, Hengist will not return home and it could be a long while till they meet again. Interrupting the silence that settled between the three Wilhelm spoke, "how does it feel? This land is your new home, those people who walk the alien streets are your people." Hengist contemplated for a moment before replying, "I read somewhere that every beginning is also an ending. I'll miss home though I'm certain this new land will become a second home, and it is not as if I'm leaving everyone behind I'll still have my men by my side." Wilhelm nodded at this, "that certainly is true, I'm sure you'll be fighting bulls and drinking wine like a native in no time... still don't forget to write home."
Isabel walked the Palace with the Lord Mayor's children, Aleksander and the priestess tagging behind. As they passed the courtyard below the Balcony where Wilhelm and his nephews sat, she waved and smiled at her new husband. She didn't know much about him and his foreign customs yet, but she had the feeling Hengist would be a good companion. Only time would really tell, but her gut was rarely wrong in these things. Afonsus, for his part, sat in his study, talking with the Prime Minister, both men carefully deciding what would be discussed in the meeting. They had hoped they could bring the foreign powers into an alliance, but that would apparently prove hard, to say the least. For now, their hopes were to enter an alliance with the Tholes and possibly the Sheenish, while agreeing to a non-agression pact with Sadalen and the Imperium. The clock was ticking, and only 3 hours remained until the meeting was to happen.
As the foreign dignitaries entered the room, the Magdal finished sending a few telegrams. The Palace was on full guard duty, not only was it full of foreign guests, but having them all in a single room would be the perfect occasion to end the leadership of several nations. The Magdal had invited the Prime Minister to the talks, along with Isabel and his husband, though he was free to sit with the Tholes, if he so wished, to represent the Kingdom in the talks.
"Good afternoon, my friends. We hope your stay has been pleasant so far." Afonsus said, standing up. "As you are all well aware, the world is changing, and rather quickly at that. We are here to ensure that peace is maintained."
Servants shuffled papers around, one standing at the side, noting everything said by the representatives down.
Dymphna and Aodhan, after having given the proper greetings, simply sat and waited to hear proposals placed forth. Neither one was considered much of a diplomat back home, despite their education, and the drinking of the prior evening had left the duchess with a nasty headache, nursing a cup of coffee.
Ludwig and Wilhelm sat quietly observing and waiting. Hengist sat with his wife and inlaws. All were confident that the talks would go well after all to them these were mere formalities after the wedding.
Afonsus noticed the distinct lack of the Sadaler representative, though he quickly concluded the man must still be nursing his hangover. Giving the Prime Minister a nod of approval, Gustavo Gusmão stood up, and began to speak.
"Good afternoon, Gentlemen. I believe the Lord Mayor is already aware of who I am, but I'll introduce myself to the rest of you all. I am Gustavo Gusmão, and I am honoured to represent the Magdali people as their Prime Minister. His Royal Majesty the Magdal had the courtesy of inviting me to these talks, so we'll be representing our side of the table, along with Princess Isabel, and her new husband the Ætheling Hengist."
"Our proposals are as follows: To comply with the honor we are now bound to by marriage, and to further guarantee lasting peace, the United Kingdom of Magdalenum is to enter an alliance with the Kingdom of West Thosel Cransconia; To make the already strong trade bonds between the two nations a more official arrangement, the Kingdom is also to enter an alliance with the Associated Cities of Sheen. Both these alliances entail that Magdalenum is bound to respond to any declarations of war the WTC and Sheen might be a target of, and vice versa. " he said, locking eyes with each of the foreign dignitaries. "The Imperium Divinum and the Empire of Sadalen are to agree to a non-agression pact with the United Kingdom of Magdalenum. I stress that the Magdal has been talking with Sadalen about marrying his youngest daughter Margarida to their Royal family, and that we intend to follow through with the marriage."
"On behalf of the Raikh and my nephew, I must refuse this proposal. Until such a time as a marriage has been concluded. No non-aggression pact can be given, as it would be without sufficient valuable consideration."
Aodhan, though not keen on pressing the issue, had an opening.
“With all due respect, I see no benefit to this proposal for Divinium. We are an ocean away from Magdalenum. And unlike the other nations at this table, do not receive much benefit from it, aside from your goodwill.”
Wilhelm spoke last though with no hesitation, "The terms are acceptable to us, though we desire to hammer out more terms of our alliance and the establishment of economic ties"
Once everyone had gotten off their chest their feelings about the respective offers, Marston at last spoke, having spent the time finishing reading his advisors proposals. "I do believe it would be moving too hasty to rush towards a full blown alliance, A non agression pact with an agreement that we would each defend the other if a dire threat would come to one of our two nation's sovereignties. We as a people do not take a liking to fighting in acts of agression, but instead against such acts."
Afonsus stood, and Gustavo sat down. Such a response was expected, he was acustomed with dealing with stubborn Ministers, and knew he would have to compromise. As long as he got support for his kingodm, and a guarantee that peace could be maintained, he would be satisfied.
"Very well, taking what you have said in consideration, I am willing to compromise. We can all leave here feeling we have gained something, that is what I aim to achieve." he sat back down, he was tired from the last few days, and his legs were no longer what they used to be. "We are willing to lower trade taxes to Divinan ships coming to do trade with us, if they agree to a non-agression pact, or at the very least, a formal promise to prevent hostilities between both of our nations in the future. We will also be extending these benefits to the WTC. I agree with the terms Mr. Garend has brought forth, and I hope we can continue to improve our relationship. This concludes my proposals, as Lord Balgi has made it clear the negotiations with Sadalen are to be halted, until the marriage goes through. If anyone wants to add anything else to these talks, please do so now, before we present the final terms."
“Now that I can agree to”, Aodhan said nodding.
Divinium had no intentions of fighting another far flung war anyhow, a non-aggression pact would be easy to manage.
"These terms are a good start, we'd prefer further opening of trade however. Namely the opening of the sale of tholish machine parts, vehicles, and steel in magdalenum and the lifting on taxes of Magdalenum's meat and wine."
"That can be arranged," said the Magdal, despite the disapproving look on the Prime Ministers face. Bureaucrats were always afraid of change. "We will lift taxes an open our doors to trade."
With a sigh, the Prime Minister stood. "So, these are the current terms." He said, reading a list:
- The United Kingdom of Magdalenum will enter an alliance with the Kingdom of West Thosel Cransconia. Foreign trade taxes until now imposed on Tholish merchant ships are to be lifted, along with taxes on the sale of wine and meat products. Since raw meat would likely spoil during the voyage to the Kingdom's shores, the sale of live cattle to Tholish ships will now be allowed. Restrictions on which Tholish goods can be sold within Magdali borders will also be lifted;
- The United Kingdom of Magdalenum will enter a mutual defense pact with the Associated Cities of Sheen. The lifted taxes on trade will remain in effect;
- The Imperium Divinum will enter a non-aggression pact with the United Kingdom of Magdalenum. Foreign trade taxes imposed on Divinan merchant vessels will be lifted;
- The Empire of Sadalen will await until the Marriage of Princess Margarida into their line is complete until they agree to any further negotiations.
"If there are no further objections, these are the terms of the Magalhães Pact. I will now give each representative time to make their final deliberations before signing the Document."
The Representatives of each nation then signed the Pact. With the dealings over, the quests enjoyed the remainder of the day one their own, as they were to depart from Magdalenum tomorrow.
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