The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Extreme =&gt; Extreme Small Groups =&gt; Topic started by: Silk on 27-12-2009, 07:46:16</h2>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Silk</strong> on <strong>27-12-2009, 07:46:16</strong>
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				It is a rare sight to see indeed... Castle Levantine is bustling with activity, but why wouldn't it be? After all it is the day of the Princess Eclypsia's assention to the throne. Invitations were sent out to all nearby kingdoms to come to the event as it will promise to be a turning point in history.<br><br>The Princess waited calmly until it was time for her appearance. Sir Gredal the current regent and her representative as leader of the kingdom was on the other side of the door giving a speech. She hated that man, not only was he responsible for her fathers death. But for years he had tried to groom her into becoming his puppet queen. He has allways ruled with a Iron fist, during his reign there had been more conflicts than any other, kingdoms destroyed and burned in her name...<br><br>Looking at her bodyguard and nodded, he was going to pay for his treachery this day! Taking steps to the balcony of the castle as the doors opened she felt the kingdoms eyes upon her, Her kingdoms... <br><br>The ceremony went by without incident and soon she wore the crown upon her head, marking her as the monarch of this great and powerful state. Now it was time for her speech, she noted several representatives of different kingdoms in the crowd of nobles. Their dress making them stand out significantly, "Good" She thought "Time to see the mistakes of the past rectified"<br><br>Taking calm dignified steps to the ledge she felt overwhelmed, but she consoled herself that it is for the best. "People of the Levantine and our honoured guests! There has been much blood shed in my name, and in the name of my family. I Empress Eclypsia Levantine will break this trend honouring my father who was assassinated before he could open diplomatic relations, will see his dream forfilled!" She took a moment to catch her breath, the crowd roared below her, she must be doing something right at least.<br><br>"I invite all nations around the world to open relations once more, watch as I herald the end of the reign of tyranny that has preceded my reign. May one last life be ended in the name of this great kingdom!" She called, looking at Gregal and nodded to the guards at either side of him. Quickly overpowering him they dragging him over the edge. "Gregal, Ex-regent of Levantine. Six years ago you planned the assassination of my father, and abused your position to become a tyrant. Your schemes will end here, I sentence you to death. And may you be the last to die in my family's name!" She finished as his scream filled the air until he crashed into the ground below.<br><br>"May this mark a new day in the Levantine kingdom." She finished before walking back inside the castle and towards the audience chambers. It was going to be a long day...
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AthenaNude</strong> on <strong>27-12-2009, 15:43:49</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Having watched and applauded the royal speech (and the end of yet another obnoxious and loathesome little tyrant like Sir Gregal), Lady Sukkana returned to the private antechamber in the royal hallway near the throne room.&nbsp; Awaiting her turn to speak to Empress Eclypsia in this small, but luxuriously decorated waiting room, Sukkana took idle note of the decorations, spotting a number of rare and valuable items, then yawned, stretched, and stood up, checking the door to lazily watch the guards as they walked up and down the corridor, her thoughts a mystery to the casual observer.&nbsp; <br><br>Picking up a book from the small bookcase near the comfortable plush chair, Sukkana began to read what was some sort of treatise on the local flora and fauna of the region.&nbsp; After getting through half the book, she placed it back in the bookcase and stood up again, her huge boobs straining the thin stretchy straps of her top.&nbsp; Wearing her golden coin-bikini top and matching skirt, she practiced a dancing move, silently, then hummed the music as she undulated.<br><br>A few minutes later, she stopped, then surreptitiously peeked out the door, waiting for her audience with the Empress and noticing all the other private waiting rooms along the corridor, and the general waiting area at the other end of the hallway, where voices could be heard.&nbsp; <br><br>"Hmm...guess I'm not the only one waiting to see the Empress."&nbsp; She whispered lightly to herself.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Hayley</strong> on <strong>27-12-2009, 16:17:35</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Most of the speech had been just so many words to Aisha.&nbsp; As a royal harem girl she had been spared being pressed into serving food as most of the castle slaves and servants had been.&nbsp; Instead she had spent the dinner strolling the middle table, keeping minor nobles plyed with drink and letting them have the token ego boost that came with slyly groping one of the royal harem.<br><br>The highpoint had been the execution of Sir Gregal.&nbsp; Universally loathed by most of the castle slaves and servants the man had been a petty minded sadist, forever aware of his tenuous hold on power and forever taking it out on the staff.&nbsp; Aisha wasn't my nature vengeful but she had cheered louder than most when he hit the floor.<br><br>Even though the Empress-in-waiting (<em>Empress</em> she corrected herself, wouldn't do to get that wrong) had left, her night was far from over.&nbsp; With the high dignitaries gone, the minor nobility were under no pressure and the wine started to flow freer.&nbsp; Her ass was going to be red raw by the end of the night.&nbsp; Hoping for an escape she glanced over to Vykos, the fussy little eunuch who oversaw the harem, hoping that she was needed elsewhere.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Ryujin</strong> on <strong>27-12-2009, 16:30:35</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Gaist stood stoically as the Regent stood outside giving another one of his long winded speeches before the Empress addressed the people. Well that was going to change soon he thought. The Empress had always said when they were behind closed doors that she was going to have him killed the day she was made empress and today was that day. <br><br>When the doors opened to allow the empress through, he returned the nod she gave him and followed behind at her side, as he always did. He looked the crowd and the assembled representatives over and summed up the chances of someone trying to assassinate the empress. They were pretty low. With all the guards present and everyone standing on the formality of the ceremony meant that no one in their right mind would try it now. Not directly anyway.<br><br>He crossed his muscled arms when Eclypsia addressed the people. He looked to the regent and chuckled when Eclypsia mentioned her father's assassination. A grim smile crossed his lips as the pathetic, screaming man was tossed over the balcony. He didn't even have the dignity to face his death in silence. But that's the kind of man he was after all.<br><br>When the ceremony was concluded, he tured and followed the empress in turn as she walked back inside. When the doors finally closed and when all but he and the empress were present he looked to her, "It'll be some time before they can scrub him off the walls." he said jokingly.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Silk</strong> on <strong>27-12-2009, 17:29:48</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				"Just as well, it will take equally long to remove his stain inside the castle also." She giggled coldly. It did not take long for the "officials" to begin coming in, each worried about their own plots of land taken by conquest. Others with empty flattery. Childsplay Eclypsia thought, small minded men that only worry about their specs of land, as long as they did not wrong her or her people, she was fine to let them rule their plots of land. "Be sure to send for two girls from the royal harem. I want to know heir feelings on this matter also" She called to a nearby guard.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Blackbird</strong> on <strong>27-12-2009, 18:54:04</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Grand Commander Navarre stood off to the side on the balcony, dressed in full ceremonial armor for the grand event that was the Princess Eclypsia’s ascension to Levantine throne. The entire event was safeguarded by members of the Royal Honor Guard, strategically placed to deter assassination attempts. Not like there was much possibility of that, though. Sir Gregal, former regent of the Levantine kingdom, was an almost universally despised ruler. The people, himself included, were eager to see the true heir returned to power.<br><br>The glorious event went well. The audience was well-behaved, the young monarch was well-received with a chorus of cheers and applause, and Vincent was proud to stand beside the new Empress.<br><br>…Then her words took a sudden, dark turn. Without hesitation, she had two guards flanking Gregal drag him to the edge of the balcony as she declared his execution. Vincent’s hand went to the hilt of his massive sword before he could think.<br><br>What is going on? He thought, astonished at his own reaction. All he could do was to stand protectively by the Empress in case Gregal tried anything desperate… but then he was gone - hurled off the balcony like a rag doll.<br><br>Vincent closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and sighed heavily. What had she done? After she and her bodyguard had left, Vincent strode to the edge of the balcony and squinted down. Needless to say, Sir Gregal was no more.<br><br>One of the guards who helped dispatch the regent noticed the Grand Commander’s hard gaze. “Sir…” he asked, somewhat timidly.<br><br>“Nothing,” Vincent replied wearily, turning to leave. “Carry on.”<br><br>He walked back inside, entering the audience chambers with the clap his metal boots on the floor and the jingle of armored plates, his large cape billowing out behind him.<br><br>“Your royal highness,” he addressed Eclypsia, dropping to one knee and bowing his head low. “If I may have a word?”<br><br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Silk</strong> on <strong>27-12-2009, 19:00:05</strong>
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				Eclypsia looked at Navarre, her eyes appearing cold and professional, but beneath there was a warmth "Of course you may Commander, what can I help you with? It appears something is bothering you" She smiled as she brushed her fingers against her chin. "And please stand up, in private you are more than welcome to speak to me in a unofficial tone."
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Blackbird</strong> on <strong>27-12-2009, 19:14:27</strong>
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				At his Empress’s request, Vincent rose to his feet. He also removed his helmet, freeing long wavy brown hair from its confines. Tucking it beneath one arm, he looked to Eclypsia with a single piercing blue eye, the other one hidden behind an eye patch.<br><br>“Something bothers me indeed, m’lady,” he said in a voice that was both forceful and concerned. “I merely question the wisdom behind committing such spectacular murder within moments of being crowned.”
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Silk</strong> on <strong>27-12-2009, 19:24:53</strong>
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				"Murder? I do not know what you are speaking of Navarre... Oh! You mean the execution of the traitor Gredal right? Do no worry yourself Sir Navarre, I am well versed in the laws of this kingdom, and treason against the crown is a crime punishable by death, he had it a long time coming, after all... It was Gregal who murdered my father, and as Gaist will tell you also. He has attempted to end my life on several occasions since." <br><br>She lowered her smile, the dark memories of her past returning to her. "After all, Gredal was almost universally hated by the entire kingdom, and kingdoms outside our own. If anything his murder at such a time would be a sign to foreign emissaries as a peace offering. The ruling enemy of their past years has been ended. And his taint can no longer stain this kingdom."
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Hayley</strong> on <strong>27-12-2009, 19:29:19</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Vykos was in conversation with a Forest Kingdoms girl Aisha had never bothered learning how to pronounce the name of.&nbsp; Any name with more than three syllables was excessive in her opinion.&nbsp; Seeing her glance though he waved her over.<br><br>"Her majesty has requested two of the girls to attend her.&nbsp; Aisha, go with Kahayalistraline.&nbsp; And smarten yourself up."&nbsp; He tugged irritably at her top, adjusting it for maximum smartness.&nbsp; "Go on.&nbsp; Don't keep her majesty waiting.&nbsp; Go, go."&nbsp; He flapped his hands at them.<br><br>Aisha foisted her goblet on one of the guards she knew vaguely - "Drink that or I tell the grand commander I saw you with a drink.&nbsp; Don't think I won't."&nbsp; - then turned to head down into the castle and towards the audience chambers.&nbsp; The Empress was talking with her Grand Commander so Aisha lifted a vol-au-vent from a passing servant and waited down the corridor until summoned.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AthenaNude</strong> on <strong>27-12-2009, 19:31:49</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Bored, Sukkana reaches for the hilt of her ceremonial sword (a harmless toy, her real sword being left in her personal chambers for obvious security reasons).&nbsp; Tossing the blade from hand to hand, twirling it in the air, catching it one-handed behind her back and then spinning around to face an imaginary foe.<br><br>"oh-HO!&nbsp; Sir Dunderclive!&nbsp; So finally we meet.&nbsp; You thought you could get the drop on me, eh?"&nbsp; A series of deft jabs and feints at the nearby tapestry relieved some of the monotony.&nbsp; Sukkana ducked under her enemy's attack and came up with a fierce lunge.&nbsp; "Take that, you ridiculous son of a pig!"<br><br>Tossing the sword aside with a "CLANG," Sukkana sank back down in her posh purple chair and looked at the titles of some of the other books in the case, reading aloud.<br><br>"The Wedding of Sir Mortimer."<br>"The Romancing of Lady Matilda."<br>"Love Poems of the Rose Sages."<br>"Courtly Waltzes."<br>"The Gentle Delights of Duchess Henrietta."<br><br>"Bleh.&nbsp; Nothing but boring bland reading there.&nbsp; The travel book on the way over here was more interesting than any of these.&nbsp; I wonder how these people would react to some of the books in <em>my</em> personal collection?"<br><br>Lady Sukkana giggled aloud at her own suggestion, imagining a room full of shocked and appalled fuddy-duddies and courtly matrons, gasping like fish on a riverbank as she read aloud a select passage from the extremely graphic and very pornographic tomes of Madam Lysissa, the whore queen of a thousand dark delights.<br><br>"Well, maybe they keep the good stuff somewhere else."&nbsp; Sukkana said, with a wry smirk.&nbsp; "Maybe <em>they</em> are the ones who think <em>I'm</em> the one liable to take offense.&nbsp; Ha!&nbsp; What a joke <em>that</em> would be!"<br><br>Hearing footsteps outside on the smooth-as-glass stone floor, Sukkana opened the door and took a look at who was walking by, and was quite glad she did.&nbsp; Looking the attractive female form up and down, it was all she could do to suppress a whistle of approval (a common practice in the markets of her own country).&nbsp; Not sure if the girl had seen her or not, Sukkana's hand involuntarily went to her crotch, rubbing gently the front of her long coin-embossed V-shaped skirt.&nbsp; <br><br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Blackbird</strong> on <strong>27-12-2009, 20:09:46</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				“I understand your reasoning, your grace,” Vincent argued respectfully, “And I also know how it feels to lose a cherished father… but what I witnessed at your coronation was not an act of justice. It was an act of revenge. Yes, the regent was a despicable character. You were in every right to execute him for treachery. But I feel I must express my… <em>disagreement</em>… with your methods.<br><br>“You see,” he explained. “Gregal was a tyrant, and a bloody one at that - as we all well know. The last thing anyone wants is for our&nbsp; precious new Empress to sink to his level. I am worried, your grace, of what the people may think. Now is the dawn of your reign. Now is when your actions are most impressionable. I wish not to argue with your highness, all I mean is to urge you to be careful, to make the right impression.”<br><br>He looked directly at Eclypsia with that shining eye of his as he issued his solemn warning. In that gaze was genuine concern for the kingdom. He could only hope that she would understand. 
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Silk</strong> on <strong>27-12-2009, 20:22:54</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				"As do I understand your reasoning and will take on your warning Navarre, I have no intention in making that kind of spectacle a habit, unfortunately it is much of a necessity, after all I am the first empress this kingdom has had, I needed to show that there is no weakness in that." She sighed and closed her eyes for a few moments. "Although I will take this kingdom into a state of diplomacy... I need to keep the air of power and determination about us or the other kingdoms will see us as weak and take revenge on the kingdom for the wrongs of the past."
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Blackbird</strong> on <strong>27-12-2009, 20:30:48</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				“I agree entirely, your grace,” Vincent said, visibly relieved. “And to that end, shall you begin the first of your duties and commence negotiations presently? I noticed that a few ambassadors and spokespeople have already arrived as I was on my way here. If it would please you, it would be my honor to usher them in.”
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Soren</strong> on <strong>27-12-2009, 22:09:19</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				The lithe young scholar strolled into the grand dining hall wearing a simple but elegant dark grey cloak and exquisite violet robes, more specifically, the robe was predominantly a dark shade of eggplant with thistle and Columbia blue designs at he corners of the mantle, but today, he hadn’t the time for the servants to do something with his hair considering he slept through most of the Empress’ inauguration, so he had the servants at his estate comb all the knots out. Simple, yet pleasing to the eye.<br><br>Soren only recently caught wind of the information of the Emperor’s execution by way of one of the many messengers under the Empress, and he was not at all impressed by her spectacle. No different from the Emperor, he thought. Soren loathed the idea of public executions. What purpose did it serve other than to instill fear in her subjects? He already began to dislike her, but he knew only to well that he had better be watchful with his tongue else he be thrown off the balcony in lieu of the old Emperor. <br><br>“Aisha,” he calls out, gesturing his nimble hand. He noticed the poor woman had had it up her shoulders with the other nobles. It was expected in the life of harem girl. “I want you to come with me, Aisha.” A thin smile appears on his lips.”We are going to be meeting someone…”
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Silk</strong> on <strong>27-12-2009, 22:32:31</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				"Glad to have you on my side Navarre, you are a honourable warrior and a great commander... It is just such a pity that your ruler had to abuse your talent... Anyway I have sent for two of the royal harem, I would like to hear their views on the state of the castle and the nobles, after all... Nobody gets more intimate with the guests than they" She giggled.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Hayley</strong> on <strong>27-12-2009, 22:50:59</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Hearing a clang off to her side, Aisha spun gracefully in time to see a woman stood in the doorway, her complexion and clothing marking her homeland as Aisha's.&nbsp; She had apparently been scratching or adjusting something under her skirt or...?&nbsp; Maybe, hard to be sure.<br><br>Aisha laughed dirtily then dropped her mouth when she realised what she had done.&nbsp; <br><br>"Gods, errrm, Ma'am.&nbsp; I'm sorry.&nbsp; I'm really sorry."&nbsp; Harem girls were expected to be lewd and hopefully she could get away with this.&nbsp; Kahaya-whatshername stood openmouthed and Aisha tried to shoot her a dirty look without the dignitary catching on.<br><br>"I'm sorry Ma'am.&nbsp; A joke one of the guards..."&nbsp; Aisha trailed off, frowning at the woman's face.&nbsp; She could have sworn she knew her from somewhere.&nbsp; Can't place her though.<br><br>"One of the guards said."&nbsp; She finished lamely.&nbsp; Glancing down the corridor it seemed the Empress was winding up her conversation.&nbsp; Either that or the roof collapsing would be enough to get her out of this.&nbsp; Curse her dirty mind.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Blackbird</strong> on <strong>27-12-2009, 23:32:50</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				“Many thanks, your grace,” Vincent replied graciously. “I shall see that the girls are fetched at once.” <br><br>Striding from the audience chamber, he looked down the hall to where they were waiting nearby. He approached purposefully, his cape fluttering and his helmet still under his arm.<br><br>“Empress Eclypsia will see you now,” he politely declared to Aisha and the others. He gestured back towards the audience chamber with his free hand. “Please follow me.”<br><br>With that, he turned and once more walked into the chamber.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AthenaNude</strong> on <strong>28-12-2009, 08:52:18</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				*Looking a bit surprised, seeing something familiar in this young woman, trying to remember where she had met her before.&nbsp; Then she realized she was staring and came up with a typical desert greeting*<br><br>"Inshanna, beautiful one, but you look familiar to me.&nbsp; I am Lady Sukkana Bint-Badra, royal ambassador of Shantarra.&nbsp; And you, crown jewel of the desert, what is your name?"<br><br>*keeping my hands on the front of my golden tunic to avoid the front from jutting out suspiciously and giving away my 'concealed weapon,' which by this time was as thick and large as any club*<br><br>"Perhaps you can tell me as we head to the throne room.&nbsp; It looks like the Empress is read to see us now."&nbsp; <br><br>*nodding to the gentleman who had just recently approached and whom they were to follow*&nbsp; <br><br>*whispering aside to Aisha in a low tone that Vincent could not hear*&nbsp; <span style="font-size: 8pt;" class="bbc_size">"And a good thing, too.&nbsp; Just between you and me I was wondering if I should have provisioned myself for a long winter's siege in this waiting room."</span>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Hayley</strong> on <strong>28-12-2009, 13:37:22</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				With Sukkana's introduction, Aisha shook her head.&nbsp; Clearly she didn't recognise her then, how would she have met a Royal Ambassador?<br><br>"My name is Aisha, if it please you.&nbsp; Girl of the Harem of the Regent.&nbsp; I mean the Empress."&nbsp; Damn.<br><br>As the lord commander arrived Aisha took a step back and turned to him and seeing her chance, held up a hand. To any observer it would look like a greeting, in fact what she had done was cover Sukkana's body with her hand so she could concentrate on the face&nbsp; She frowned again more convinced then ever that she knew this woman from somewhere then arranged her face into an accomadating smile.<br><br>As they walked towards the chamber, the two Harem girls fell easily into step with the ambassador.&nbsp; While not spies by any stretch of the imagination, the Royal Harem was expected to take any chance they could get to gather information about the castle's guests.<br><br>She giggled into her hand at the ambassadors comment and replied "<span style="font-size: 8pt;" class="bbc_size">Big day for her Ma'am.&nbsp; Hope it hasn't put you in too bad a mood?"</span>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AthenaNude</strong> on <strong>28-12-2009, 14:57:13</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				*whispers back, when I realize I'm not being heard by our escort*<br><br><span style="font-size: 8pt;" class="bbc_size">"Oh no, I was wondering what their position on torture was.&nbsp; Quite effective, I would say.&nbsp; Much more effective than the crude methods in my country.&nbsp; Those books had me wanting to rip my own eyes out rather than wait for some torturer to come around to do it."</span><br><br>*cheerfully smiles at our escort, and continues to walk with my hands down in front of my long metal-disk embossed skirt, now noticing the other harem girl as well*<br><br>"Very pleased to meet you, Aisha.&nbsp; You are a new harem girl for this new Empress?&nbsp; Well, I can see she doesn't mess about.&nbsp; Has her priorities straight, that one.&nbsp; Clear out all the vipers from their nest on the very first day and then gets her entertainment sorted before some inept assistant can jump in and botch the whole thing.&nbsp; I like this Eclypsia.&nbsp; Plus the free show at the end of the speech ought to make any assassin think twice before getting any ideas.&nbsp; Very shrewd.&nbsp; I'll bet the idiot scholars all around her must be wringing their hands with worry regarding that one!"&nbsp; *laughs*<br><br>"Oh, but Baalther take me, I didn't catch you lovely friend's name."&nbsp; *glancing at Aisha's companion, the other dancing girl*<br><br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Hayley</strong> on <strong>28-12-2009, 15:19:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Aisha giggled again."<span style="font-size: 8pt;" class="bbc_size">I'm sorry they weren't to your taste.&nbsp; If you let me know what sort of book you like I'll pass the message on to the Keeper of the Royal Library.&nbsp; The Levantine Empire has produced some fine works, from the plays of Bard William of the Shaken Spear to the novels of Jane , My Lady of Austen."[size]&nbsp; Reading matter was always a good indication of a person's temprement.<br><br>"Forgive me, Ma'am.&nbsp; This is.." Aisha paused for a beat and the other girl cut in smoothly with "Kahayalistraline" - giving Aisha a dirty look as she did.<br><br>"Yes, we are both fairly new to the Harem.&nbsp; I'm not sure the Empress has considered what is to be done with us yet though.&nbsp; I'm glad I meet with your approval."&nbsp; Aisha watched the Grand Commander's back, trying to work out if he was reacting to the Ambassasdor's comment about the execution.&nbsp; "I'm sure I wouldn't know what the scholars thought.&nbsp; I think it was something of a surprise to everyone."</span>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Blackbird</strong> on <strong>29-12-2009, 06:24:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The Grand Commander kept a dignified posture as he wordlessly led the group down the hall. Even though he had no intention to eavesdrop, nor did he particularly care what they were whispering about, it was hard not to overhear snippets of muted conversation beneath their regular chit-chat. There was a limit to how quiet a human voice could get, especially when standing right behind someone.<br><br>Vincent rolled his eye to himself at their hushed giggles and fake smiles. When Sukkana mentioned Gregal’s execution, he merely grunted out loud, glancing briefly over his shoulder so they could see his solemn eye patch.<br><br>“We’re here,” he said when they reached the chamber. The guards at the doors opened them to admit the group, which Vincent led inside.<br><br>“My Empress,” he announced to Eclypsia. “Here are the ones you wished to see.”<br><br>With that, he went to stand at the side of the room to observe the proceedings.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Hayley</strong> on <strong>29-12-2009, 18:16:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Aisha paused to whisper in the ear of one of the courtiers what little she knew about the ambassador, certain it would eventually make its way to whoever needed to know it then walked into the room. She started to head towards her normal position when in court, sat on the floor at the base of the throne, then stopped.&nbsp; She glanced over to her Harem mate, unsure whether the new ruler meant new etiquette, who shrugged and looked questioningly at the Seneschal who nodded slightly.<br><br>The two girls sat either side of the throne, the old regent had liked to surround himself with the pick of the Harem as a mark of authority.&nbsp; Aisha automatically poitioned herself so that the throne's occupant had the best view of her possible.&nbsp; She smiled to herself as she realised the Empress probably wasn't interested in that as much as the regent had been but sat still.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AthenaNude</strong> on <strong>29-12-2009, 18:36:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				*Having chit-chatted briefly with both Kahayalistraline and Aisha shortly before arriving at the doorway to the throne room, Sukkana smiled pleasantly to the Grand Commander as he announced her....or rather didn't...and then decided to remedy the situation as she marched past him and simply announced herself.<br><br>"<em>Lady Sukkana Bint-Badra of Shantarra</em>, your Imperial majesty."&nbsp; *with a flourish of her vibrantly-hued cape and a deep bow that allowed the Queen, Aisha, Kaya, and a few other onlookers a spectacular view of the deep cleavage between her huge melon-sized breasts*<br><br>"I have come here, by mutual request of my own country and yours, and may both prosper greatly in so doing.&nbsp; I will endeavor to serve you, oh Empress, in any capacity that I possibly can."<br><br>*shooting Eclypsia a lustful stare which lasted but a single moment...but was nevertheless unmistakable to her Highness.*<br><br>"I have many talents..."<br><br>*smoothing down the front of her tunic, wondering if one of her 'talents' had already been observed*<br><br>"...ahem...and will happily act as a liason between your country and mine."<br><br>*bows again, this time a shorter quicker one, and then steps back to allow others to have their say.*
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Silk</strong> on <strong>29-12-2009, 20:27:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eclypsia looked at both of the harem girls, "I see the regent had a good taste, however that is not the reason that I have requested you here, you two are the most active of the harem, that makes you useful... You have seen many of the guards and nobles in areas that no other has been, knowing your position with such will be of great benefit to me" <br><br>Turning to stare at Sukkana, she looked to be a bit of a milf, could such a woman really be trusted with such a important role as ambassador, or was Shantarra insulting her by sending this woman to be their representative. <br><br>Scowling she looked into Sukkana's eyes "I am not attracted to lower back problems ambassador Sukkana, may I ask what you credentials are for such a position as ambassador? I am aware that our nation has a reputation for having females no better than common harlots in all class's. But I do find it rather insulting that your kingdom seems to assume that I will be making my international decisions in bed rather than the negotiation table..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Ryujin</strong> on <strong>29-12-2009, 23:47:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Gaist's slitted eyes examined each of the harem girls. Being a regular visitor to the royal harem, both were known to him but perhaps not as much as they could have been. He was aware that the regent favored them, as evidenced by their place next to the throne.&nbsp; It's not that he was repulsed by them or even found them unattractive, but he refused to partake of them so long as they bore the regent's leaverage. <br><br>He gave them a slight smile, now open to fully appreciate all of their assets. The smile left when the ambassador, in scantily clad state, approached the empress. Her garb was very enticing, not the kind of thing an ambassador wore, and the manner in which she moved suggested her talents lied outside of the negotiating table and in the bedroom. And when she bowed and gave Eclypsia that lustful stare, it almost made his blood boil. This woman was clearly hitting on the Empress and doing it without an ounce of shame. He shot thebrunette a fierce glare in return for the look she gave the Empress. <br><br>His anger was mixed with confusion when she smoothed out her tunic. Being possessed of an exceptional sense of smell, he caught a whiff of something he couldn't quite place. This was a woman standing before him, but there was something else that smelled akin to a man. Maybe her scent got mixed with a man's or perhaps he was misplacing the source, but he could not shake the strange feeling he got from that strange scent.<br><br>He leaned down so he could whisper into the Empress' ear, "Be weary of this woman. I can't place it, but I smell something queer about her."<br><br>(Just to note, I'm using queer in it's original context, not a racial slur.)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AthenaNude</strong> on <strong>30-12-2009, 00:23:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote"><a href="https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=56312.msg2588646#msg2588646">Quote from: Silk on 29-12-2009, 20:27:37</a></div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote">Eclypsia looked at both of the harem girls, "I see the regent had a good taste, however that is not the reason that I have requested you here, you two are the most active of the harem, that makes you useful... You have seen many of the guards and nobles in areas that no other has been, knowing your position with such will be of great benefit to me" <br><br>Turning to stare at Sukkana, she looked to be a bit of a milf, could such a woman really be trusted with such a important role as ambassador, or was Shantarra insulting her by sending this woman to be their representative.</blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div> <br><br>*smiling at the dubious stare*<br><br><div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote">Quote</div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote">Scowling she looked into Sukkana's eyes "I am not attracted to lower back problems ambassador Sukkana,</blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div><br>Thinking to herself: <span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font">"Oh?&nbsp; What is this!?&nbsp; The claws coming out already?&nbsp; 'Lower back problems,' indeed! Ha! I think we just might possibly get along...such spirit and she doesn't hold back, either."</span><br><br><div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote">Quote</div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote">may I ask what you credentials are for such a position as ambassador? I am aware that our nation has a reputation for having females no better than common harlots in all class's. </blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div> <br><br>Thinking:&nbsp; <span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font">"Good to know.&nbsp; Would you by chance happen to have a scroll listing their locations and rates?&nbsp; I bet <em>that</em> one would."."</span>&nbsp; glancing at Gaist then back at the Empress as she continued.<br><br><div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote">Quote</div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote">But I do find it rather insulting that your kingdom seems to assume that I will be making my international decisions in bed rather than the negotiation table..."<br></blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div><br><span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font">"Then more the fool, <em>you</em>, as that's where all the true diplomacy takes place in the world." </span> Sukkana thought to herself, fighting the urge to see the reaction of this haughty empress if she were to actually say so.&nbsp; No, better to just play along with these strange people and their boring stuffy ways.&nbsp; Perhaps this is all for show, since there's plenty of scribes, historians, and scholars no doubt busily taking notes for posterity and other such silly rubbish.&nbsp; Seeing the Empress awaiting an answer, Sukkana spoke out.<br><br>"Ah, I see.&nbsp; Well, I assure you then our relationship will be nothing but a strictly professional one, oh mighty empress of Levantine, and any business I have with you and your....<em>wise</em>....advisers will strictly be relegated to the negotiating table.&nbsp; I will present my papers upon demand, and gladly, at any moment of your choosing."<br><br>Sukkana inwardly was laughing at the obviously enraged looks on the faces of more than one jealous suitor of this new Empress amongst the august assemblage.&nbsp; It was almost like being back in Shantarra.&nbsp; The more things change the more they stay the same...
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Hayley</strong> on <strong>30-12-2009, 01:33:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Aisha smiled slightly as she heard the veiled and not-so-veiled insults flying above her.&nbsp; Diplomacy under the regent had been much more boring.&nbsp; "Surrender your lands and wealth and I may yet let you live" had been an oft heard phrase.&nbsp; One of the girls had done a spot on impression, until the regent had heard of it and had her tongue torn out.&nbsp; Poor Selina.<br><br>She returned Gaist's smile and posed slightly - the Empress didn't seem to be planning on turfing the Harem out of their comfortable quarters but the Royal Bodyguard couldn't possibly be a bad ally to have if there was a new broom coming.&nbsp; As he leant over her she beckoned him down.<br><br>"<span style="font-size: 8pt;" class="bbc_size">Unless I miss my guess totally, I think she'd appreciate a couple of the girls coming over to her bedchamber.&nbsp; Mentioning no names, but I can think of at least two who are, well, more interested in the rest of the harem than the nobles.&nbsp; Also, I know this woman from somewhere.&nbsp; I can't for the life of me think where but red hair isn't that comman in Shantarra and I'm certain I remember her from somewhere.</span>"<br><br>She shifted her position on the cold stone and glanced enviously at the cushions the courtiers had been provided with.&nbsp; Hopefully there'd be more insults soon.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Blackbird</strong> on <strong>30-12-2009, 07:22:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Standing rigidly off to the side of the room near the throne, Vincent kept his silence as the talks began. So far there was not much business being discussed, although the newly appointed Empress was certainly impressive with her forceful and witty rebuke of the Shantarran ambassador. Her bodyguard Gaist must feel the same way, judging from his quiet word with Eclypsia. As Grand Commander, he couldn’t help but feel good about these two - they kept the Kingdom first, as it should be.<br><br>This Sukkana woman was a different story. Like his Empress, Navarre couldn’t help but doubt the ambassador’s professionalism. He scowled with his one good eye. Was this… a joke to her? <br><br>He tilted his head in Gaist’s direction and raised a subtle eyebrow, signaling to the bodyguard a ‘<em>what’s this lady’s problem?</em>’ gesture.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AthenaNude</strong> on <strong>30-12-2009, 16:11:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(actually, Sukkana is a brunette, not a redhead.&nbsp; It's listed in the OOC profile&nbsp; ;) )<br><br>*Silently watching out of the corner of her eye those who don't think she has noticed, wondering what in the blue gehenna these people's problem is and if they ever lighten up for a single second or if they are just born with a bug up their ass and stay that way for life.&nbsp; It now begins to dawn upon her at last just how much of a punishment being named an ambassador to this boring land populated by royal assassins of joy truly might become.&nbsp; With an inward sigh, Sukkana thought of Kaya and Aisha, alas, the amazing talents of both girls would most certainly be wasted on this lot.*<br><br>*Crossing her arms, certain her earlier assessment of the Empress was clearly mistaken.&nbsp; Just another petty tyrant in the making and one who would be most uncooperative, it seemed.&nbsp; This one-eyed creature who served her made her skin crawl, as did the lumbering Grand Commander who reminded her of the bastard who had revealed her extracurricular activities back in Shantarra and caused her to be forced into this ambassadorial job.&nbsp; <em>Respect is a two way street</em>, and so far these idiots had been <em>most</em> disrespectful, and now they would cheerfully be met with nothing but pure resistance from her for their actions.&nbsp; Stubborness is met with stubborness, and it was clear they knew nothing of diplomacy and had no interest in learning.&nbsp; Just another regime of arrogant sand toads, it would seem, more's the pity.&nbsp; Hopefully this sexless council of uptight fools would soon come to an end and some true life could at last begin...for the few who still knew how to live life to the fullest, at least.&nbsp; Sukkana would respond, with practiced happiness, to the worms around her, and pretend not to hear their disapproval if not see it in their rather ordinary faces*<br><br>*Then a thought occurs.&nbsp; <span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font">"Perhaps that's my way out of this.&nbsp; If I can get the Empress to reject me as her Shantarran liason and request a different ambassador, I'll be sent home and the royal Shantarran family can do nothing about it!&nbsp; From the sounds of things I'm halfway there already!&nbsp; Maybe just a bit more...yes....that just may be my way out of this gilded prison."</span>&nbsp; Sukkana's eyes narrowed as she thought on this for a few more moments."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Silk</strong> on <strong>30-12-2009, 16:27:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eclypsia allowed herself a smile as she replied to Navarre "Who knows, but blind flattery and sexual gestures will not get her very far in a ambassadorial role." She stood up and walked towards Sukkana keeping her voice low as she reached her. "Just deal with this formality for a time, I do not like it any more than you do, but for now I must be seen as a strong authority figure, when the scribes are away and formal business is over, we may talk more openly" <br><br>She smiled shyly at her before raising her voice, allowing others to hear. "I during this day I expect professionalism not shows of appendages and lust filled words, are we clear or diplomatic relations with your country may be in jeopardy, I am the new empress and I demand to be treated as such" She growled before stepping back to her throne, "Come, Kaya, Aisha tell me what you think of the ambassador also"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AthenaNude</strong> on <strong>30-12-2009, 16:47:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				*playing along and looking duly chastised, like some naughty puppy, wondering how much to ham it up for these people, then deciding to go for the 'dejected supplicant' route and shuffle her feet and look down.&nbsp; Glancing at the audience she could see much support for the Empresses's insults, no surprise there, it would seem.*<br><br><span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font">"That'll teach her!&nbsp; Imagine somebody like that coming <em>here!</em>&nbsp; Why I <em>never</em>...!"</span>&nbsp; Sukkana could see the lips forming the words if not actually hear them.&nbsp; If they only knew how empty their existences were in this cold place...and they <em>never</em> would....Sukkana shuddered lightly, glad she at least wasn't like that.&nbsp; &nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Hayley</strong> on <strong>30-12-2009, 17:13:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(Sorry Athena, don't know where I got red from. :-\)<br><br>Aisha froze and glanced at Kaya, willing her to be the first to speak, but saw her expression mirrored.&nbsp; <br><br>"Well, your Majesty, we haven't spoken much.&nbsp; She, errrm..." Aisha glanced frantically round the room, terrified of giving offence to someone by being too honest or being seen as unreliable by not being honest enough.<br><br>"She seems to prefer speaking in a less formal setting, developing a personal relationship."&nbsp; Aisha glanced at Kaya, feeling she had said enough and wanting the other girl to take over, but Kaya carefully avoided meeting her eye.&nbsp; Aisha glared at her and continued.<br><br>"I don't know, maybe she's just overawed by meeting your Majesty.&nbsp; But, well, maybe things would be more smooth in a more relaxed setting."&nbsp; She shrugged&nbsp; "I dunno, thats just what I think."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AthenaNude</strong> on <strong>30-12-2009, 20:20:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				*looking bored by the disapproving stares of the kettle of cold fish, several of whom she would never entertain even if they were otherwise, and wondering what the harem girls were saying to Eclypsia.&nbsp; Sukkana couldn't even begin to guess, it might be anything.&nbsp; Noting the scowls and angry looks, it seemed like the slightest sign of bare skin was enough to set many here into a cold rage.&nbsp; How different things were here from her years spent amongst the Sihr, how similar things felt to one of the old fanatical fundamentalist religious sects of her homeland.&nbsp; Why are these people as they are?&nbsp; How did things here get this way?&nbsp; Is it possible to change this stifling, oppressive, fog they live in?&nbsp; Do they even want to change?&nbsp; And why does....*<br><br>*Sukkana's concentration suddenly broken as she noticed a glaring little man, some scholar or another, feverishly trying to avert his 'outraged' gaze from her ample bosom, his piggish little eyes always seeming to return to her chest*<br><br>*speaking under her breath, in the faintest of whispers*&nbsp; <span style="font-size: 8pt;" class="bbc_size">"Fehhh....I shouldn't worry about it.&nbsp; With any luck I'll be sent back to Shantarra before the week is through and leave this onerous funeral party to their own gloomy devices, and good riddance.&nbsp; I wonder who would be a suitable replacement?&nbsp; Sharooq al-Hadzi....yes, perhaps Sharooq.&nbsp; I never liked him."</span>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Silk</strong> on <strong>30-12-2009, 20:57:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Private eh? I suppose that is appropriate, I would not want her foul language to be heard by my servants. Come Ambassador, lets see what you have to say for yourself in private, this should not take long as I have other officials to see" She said remaining stoic, stepping up and walking behind the throne, motioning only her to follow "Everyone else remain here, this is to be a private discussion and off the records"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AthenaNude</strong> on <strong>30-12-2009, 21:47:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Hmm?&nbsp; What?&nbsp; Oh!&nbsp; Of course!&nbsp; As you wish, your highness."<br><br>*Not realizing what those two girls had said to the Empress of glaciers but they must be the Chosen of Inshanna, indeed, if they were the ones who had just now presented this rare opportunity of escape!&nbsp; Sukkana headed behind the throne to a curtained-off area, just after hearing several satisfied voices amongst the crowd who were most certain that this brash jezebel was about to be shown her place by their stern Empress*<br><br>*speaking softly, but with a sense of urgency.*<br><br>"I can see that there's a problem with my appointment to this court, your highness.&nbsp; I can also see that you have little interest or patience with one such as I, and if I displease you so, then I will do all that I can to make things right and rectify the situation.&nbsp; After all, good relations between our two nations is the main goal and if that is put in jeopardy because of the way you and your people feel about me then you are well within your rights to reject my appointment and request a new Shantarran ambassador to your esteemed court."<br><br>*looking into the eyes of the Empress, Sukkana's beseeching gaze seemed to betray more than her words.&nbsp; It was almost like looking into the eyes of a card-player who was holding either an important hand...or a complete bluff.&nbsp; It almost seemed like Sukkana was trying to mask her true intentions, somehow*<br><br>"I have the papers with me right here, and can name a wonderful successor, one Sharooq Al-Hadzi.&nbsp; You will like him and I am sure he will be much more satisfactory to your scholars and advisors.&nbsp; An absolute professional, with no interests outside his court duties.&nbsp; I can assure you he is the perfect choice and would no doubt <em>delight</em> in an extended stay here...say, 10-15 years?&nbsp; I have a pen tucked into my sash, and a bottle of ink....&nbsp; Oh, where did I put the bottle...?"<br><br>*as the bottle drops to the ground Eclypsia can see that there is very much more than a bottle of ink tucked into the glittering golden tunic, something that easily rivals the biggest she's ever seen on a human being*<br><br>"Sorry about that, your highness, here, everything is in order and awaits your signature and approval."<br><br>*Thinking the Empresses' earlier whispered words to her were merely staged on her behalf, and not meant to be taken seriously...Sukkana was not even sure if she had heard them correctly at all, as they contradicted all the Empress's previous words fairly significantly.&nbsp; Maybe she'd merely heard what she wanted to hear?&nbsp; Best not to chance it...no...stay with the plan!*
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Silk</strong> on <strong>30-12-2009, 22:01:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Oh now now... I thought that we could begin a beautiful friendship" She said stoical, looking at the ambassador with little care, however her features began to lighten up "After all, with someone like you around, it may bring a bit of excitement back to the courts, I must apologise for my earlier behavior, I do not enjoy being a figure of authority but as you can understand there are certain requirements" She sat down on a nearby soft chair.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AthenaNude</strong> on <strong>31-12-2009, 00:10:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				*A startled look came over Lady Sukkana's exotic features.&nbsp; The thought had never really occured to her before that the Empress, someone of such power and prestige, might possibly be a prisoner of this convoluted system as much as she, herself, might be.&nbsp; How long had this poor soul been trapped in this intricate web?&nbsp; Years certainly.&nbsp; And much longer than a mere foreign ambassador, such as herself had been ensnared.&nbsp; Sukkana had only endured but a single day of this oppressive pompous court nonsense, but Eclypsia had had to endure a lifetime.&nbsp; It was quite a stark difference between this culture and that of her own.* <br><br>*Sukkana suddenly had cause to look upon the Empress in a new light and this brought a new dilemma.&nbsp; To selfishly try to go ahead with her self-serving plan to get released from this place and abandon this noble woman to what must surely be a soul-draining life of joyless empty duty-laden drudgery?&nbsp; Or to abandon her plans for an easy pathway out and try to make a go of things here, knowing that it would be the more difficult road?&nbsp; Time was ticking away and she had to decide quickly.*<br><br>"Well...I suppose that...I mean...."&nbsp; <br><br>*For the first time in a long time, the wily Sukkana Bint-Badra of Shantarra was at a loss for words*<br><br>"If...err...if you don't mind my presence here, then perhaps something could be arranged...but I don't think your staff would agree with your private assessment, your highness.&nbsp; If you would perhaps, allow me to retain the ways of my culture, so long as no one is harmed in so doing, I would be...agreeable... to remaining here as your liason to my country.&nbsp; I think it just might shake things up around here, in a good way, just like the Sihr has been doing in my own nation.&nbsp; Sort of like 'shaking the dust out of an old rug' so to speak."<br><br>*Sukkana had never allowed anything...or anyone...to dictate to her how she should live.&nbsp; It was unthinkable to her that someone as powerful and shrewd as Empress Eclypsia should allow others to set terms on how she should conduct herself in her own palace.&nbsp; Sukkana had rebelled against each and every arranged marriage, every group of conservative fanatics who tried to mold her, every critic of her hedonistic ways...valuing her own personal freedom of expression and indivuality more than all the treasures she'd acquired in her younger days as a notorious burglar, and given her rather staggering hauls that was no idle boast.&nbsp; It would take quite some effort to get used to this culture, provided she remained here after all.&nbsp; Much depended on what Empress Eclypsia had to say*
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Blackbird</strong> on <strong>01-01-2010, 07:22:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Remaining silent and attentive, Vincent watched the Empress lead the Shantarran ambassador behind the throne for a private word, ordering everyone else to remain behind. Outwardly, his face was expressionless. But on the inside, his curiosity arose. <br><br>The Grand Commander was no fool. He noticed the inconsistency of Eclypsia’s behavior… berating Sukkana at one moment, then granting her a private audience the next. Even though the court (if it could be called such with only a handful of people currently present) said nothing, he could assume they thought the Empress might be giving her a harsh talking-to about proper conduct. He, however, had a different theory. In his mind, it did not seam like this was meant to scold the ambassador, but rather… to apologize to her.<br><br>Confused, he pondered deeper into the matter. It was really only just a hunch. But if he was right, why should the Empress feel the need to apologize? It was the ambassador, mocking Levantine with her suggestive mannerisms, who should apologize. But… Maybe Eclypsia did not see it that way. Perhaps she thought it was a greater insult to shun this new ambassador after only a moment’s impression, and she now wished to say sorry on behalf of the court.<br><br>When he realized this, he felt suddenly ashamed. He had spent too long under the command of the cold, uncaring Regent Gregal, even if it was against his will. This Empress Eclypsia had the wisdom and grace of someone much older than her - she was sure to make a fine ruler. But Vincent was a man of honor, and it embarrassed him to think that someone else considered it necessary to apologize on his behalf. If he wished to follow his Empress in the creation of a newer, better, more accepting Levantine, then he would have to start with accepting Sukkana.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Silk</strong> on <strong>02-01-2010, 17:14:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I came to power hoping that we could learn and improve off of eachother, much damage was done after the regents rule... I am envious of your freedom Sukkana, I would greatly love to feel that freedom again, unfortunately I must remain in power, not only am I the last of my line.<br><br>But unless I keep in power, and try to make the Levantine kingdom better, a ally of the ex-regent may seek to claim the throne, civil war would break out and a great many people will suffer, there could even be a repeat of the tyranny that Gredal inflicted upon everyone.<br><br>I have a great many enemies in the courts Sukkana, I need to remain strong and sing to their tune in front of them. I just want to make the kingdom a better place for everyone, So indeed... Please forgive my attitude again outside, and I will see to it that your culture is respected, but please understand that you will be required to respect ours... As dull and lifeless as it is" She giggled a little and awaited a reply.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AthenaNude</strong> on <strong>03-01-2010, 02:28:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I understand, your highness."<br><br>*grinning*<br><br>"If you will allow me to dress as I wish I will be happy to keep all my other extracurricular activities most discreet, your highness.&nbsp; I assure you I have no intentions of disrupting your court by my appearance or mannerisms.&nbsp; I have my ways of doing things just as you and your people do, and we are both from very different cultures.&nbsp; I will respect yours if you will respect mine."<br><br>*Seeing that the conversation was ending, Sukkana turned, adding one last thought*<br><br>"However, if my presence and appearance continues to cause scandal on sight in your court, then perhaps it would be best if I did not maintain any court presence at all and instead arranged all my meetings and dealings with your majesty entirely out of the public eye.&nbsp; It would probably save us both much time and trouble that way, wouldn't you agree?&nbsp; In any case, think on it and send your answer to me when you decide."&nbsp; <br><br>*Bowing as the curtain was drawn and instantly wiping the friendly smile off her face mere seconds beforehand, Sukkana effortlessly adopted the expression of a small child who had just been scolded by a headmaster for not doing her schoolwork, and went back to her place, eager to be dismissed and ready to embark incognito on a wild night of very ignoble debauchery in the city and finding out just what the rest of the populace got up to in this place.&nbsp; And if a 'former' notorious burglar could just so happen to turn up any dirt on any remaining vipers in Eclypsia's court in so doing?&nbsp; Well...all the better*
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Hayley</strong> on <strong>03-01-2010, 02:34:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As the Empress and Ambassador reemerged Aisha and Kaya abruptly broke off a whispered conversation they had been having and returned to attempting to look sultry and available at each side of the throne.&nbsp; The impression was ruined a little by Aisha trying to stifle giggles and Kaya occasionally holding up her little finger and then looking meaningfully at Aisha.&nbsp; Gossip about the perfomrance of various members of the court occupied most of the harem's time but they were careful on this occasion not to let on which courtier had been the object of their derision.<br><br>Both made a visible effort to control themselves when the Seneschal shot them a dirty look and had more or less composed themselves by the time the Empress would have noticed them.<br><br>Aisha winked at Vincent and mouthed 'How long are we going to be?'
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Levantine Kingdom [Ex, Mul] IG thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Blackbird</strong> on <strong>03-01-2010, 16:18:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Noticing the harem girl’s silent gesture, he responded in kind with a simple, bored roll of his eye. <em>Who knows?</em> he conveyed wordlessly.<br><br>But not long afterwards, Ambassador Sukkana emerged from behind the curtain, indicating that the private discussion had reached its conclusion. Vincent waited for Eclypsia to return as well, so that she may continue the meeting.
			</dd>
		</dl>
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