After a few more minutes, chatter died down. Seeing this, Diwan Sahab turned on his microphone.
"Seeing as discussion has died down, I believe it would be expedient to move for a vote on the Commonwealth Anti-Terrorism Initiative of 2019. Any seconds?"
The Golden Palace was ready for the climax of the week, and amongst its occupants and staff no one was more ready than its owner. "Just one year earlier and this would have been perfect." Rajesh thought. A year earlier, after all, he had turned 50. It was already extraordinarily lucky that his birthday coincided with the anniversary of the Empire's founding. Many pandits heralded he would be the greatest Syrixian Emperor since Dasharatha the Magnificent. And while he didn't think he could ever compare to Mahatma Samraat's achievements, he did not much want to either. His goals were different.
"If only the Empire had been formed a year earlier." the Emperor mused to himself, as he observed the final preparations for the gala via the cameras. He had commemorated his own birthday earlier that day, in the afternoon; as it was Samnadhi tradition to commemorate your birthdays based not just on the day you were born but by the time as well. His closest friends and family- such as his mother, his brother, his wife and children, Sasil, Anthony, Claire, and Yashwant Uddhava, the Seneschal of the Order of the Imperial Sentinels, were all in attendance.
The Palace Ballroom was an immense chamber filled with golden archways, with a balcony overlooking the coast of Elephant Island and tables littered all around. There was a buffet with dishes being displayed from all over the globe, with a focus on dishes from the Empire and its former overseas territories. As well, there was a clearing in the middle of the room for socialization, and at the back of the room there was a throne for the Emperor, next to the largest of the tables, which would be reserved for the Imperial House itself, as well as the Goyaneans.
Each table was numbered. Seating was somewhat though not entirely random, so as to not make non-allies feel offended. Rajesh took one last look at the seating chart.
All seemed well. The Emperor had specifically made sure to seat the Sutherlanders in the farthest table from the McMasterdonians, and had also asked his Sentinels to pay special attention to the conduct of both nations’ delegates. If all went according to plan, there would be no fistfights or anything of that sort and the gala would be a night to remember.
As Rajesh closed his seating chart, he opened his copy of The Last Light. He was only able to read his pocket copy of the Mahabhaglia in between his meetings with various world leaders, but he was hoping to finish the chapter of this book that he had left off on. Merely one page in, however, the door opened. The Emperor sighed briefly, put on a smirk, and looked up to see who the first guests were.
The Arc-Wonderess had finally located the kid's parents but sadly missed the tour for that day. Nathan decided to just tour the Syrixian capital for the remainder of the week to take in the sights and culture around him.
The time had come for the Gala. Nathan exited the car to enter the Golden Palace for the first time. He noted the ornate architecture which continued into the Palace Ballroom. It seemed that only Table 1 had people at it so Nathan decided to go say hello to the Syrixian and Goyanean families.
Tobias found himself entering the Golden Palace for the second time since arriving in Syrixia. He was far more relaxed, however, in a three piece grey nailshead suit than he had been in his ceremonial outfit he had worn while visiting Emperor Rajesh. A golden crowned stag head lapel was the only outward symbol of his Royal authority.
Magnus wore a black three piece himself, a bit understated but still sharp. He clutched his cane as they entered the ball, taking in the scene.
"I assume you'll wish to mingle, Your Majesty?"
"I'd like a drink" Tobias laughed.
"I just might be able to find a Prydanian drink here. If not that then at least something Andrennian."
Magnus smirked, but said nothing. He wasn't going to begrudge a young man looking for a drink at a social.
"Well then, I'll leave you to your own devices Your Majesty. I'm sure I find some way to keep myself busy."
Tobias smiled and made his way to the bar, with Magus scanning the room. He found the Sil Dorsett delegation and smiled. It was high time he met Prime Minister Ellison in person.
"Prime Minister Madeline Ellison" he said with his usually pleasant tone.
"Magnus Brandt, Prime Minister of Prydania. It's a pleasure to finally make your acquaintance."
The black AMW limousine pulled up at the door of the Golden Palace. The miniature Hightonian flags which were attached to the car's hood fell from their flight as the car stopped. A man approached the car and open the door. Diego, the Prince of Highton, and his wife Emelie were the first to step out. He was followed by his sister, Penelope. The President of Highton, Alex Calabrese, had flown over to Pataliputra that morning and was next to exit. He was followed by Antonio Fernández, Secretary of Foreign Affairs, and Jonathon Schlessinger, Ambassador to Syrixia.
They were led into the ballroom by the Syrixian man who had greeted them as they exited the car. The three members of the royal family walked in front, chatting with one another, while the three members of the Republic walked behind. It had been some time since Diego had last visited the Palace. He commented on the artwork as they walked through the hallway. Eventually, they arrived at the ballroom. They walked past a group which included the Prydanian delegation. As they walked past, Diego said hello to his cousin, the King of Prydania. They walked over to a group which comprised the Syrixian, Goyanean, and Sutherlan delegations. Calabrese shook hands with the Arc-Wonderess, whom he had met almost a year prior. The three royals greeted the leaders of Syrixia and Goyanes.
"Alright, one for you, and one for me, cheers!" Said Nurendir as he and Fenris downed their shots. "Wow, that'll wake you up." Said the King shaking himself out. "How long have you been holding onto that?" He asked the Prince. "I always keep some of this on hand for special occasions. Best to go into these kinds of situations with a little taste of home in the belly." "Right you are." Answered Fenris. "So...what's your plan tonight?" "My plan?" Repeated Nurendir. "What makes you think I have plan?" "Nurendir..." Fenris started. "Do you know that you're the very image of the younger me?" "A younger you is hard to imag..." Before Nurendir could finish that thought Fenris' hand collided with the back of his head. "As I was saying." Said the King. "You are my son, and I'd like to think we share much the same character. With that in mind I know that you have no intention of quietly returning to the palace after this gala. I certainly would not have at your age." Nurendir thought over his father's words for a moment, and answered. "Very well, I'll admit we think alike, and yes I imagine I'll have no trouble finding some adventure to embark upon after we're finished here." Fenris nodded. "What did you have in mind?" "Well you know me, I'll look for the young and out of place at this party. I imagine I'll find some trouble to get into...I've heard Essalanea is lovely this time of year." Fenris laughed. "You know I do want you to actually be able to come back?" Nurendir smiled at his father. "You know I can handle myself." "Do I." Replied Fenris sternly. The two men locked eyes for a long while before the halt of the car brought them back to their current situation. "We've arrived at the Golden Palace Your Majesty." Said the driver. Fenris looked out the window at the waiting crowd. "And so we are." He said to Nurendir. "Ready Son?" "Ready." The two men shook hands and exited the vehicle.
Fenris was first to exit, he stepped from the car and began the normal pleasantries of arrival as he waited for Nurendir to join him. The Emperor was dressed in a sharp black and white tuxedo with a green and gold sash over his left shoulder. The Crown of Alnaria sat lightly across his brow, its diamonds gleaming in the fading light of the evening. Nurendir walked calmly to the side of his father. He was dressed in a black and silver Royal Army Officer Uniform. His aiguillette and decorations were just so in preparation for the gala. On his head rested the Crown of the Prince. The circlet was beautiful, but like the Crown of the King, it was simple, and made for wear. A fact the Prince deeply cherished. The two men began the slow march to the entrance of the Palace, silent to the last moment until Fenris spoke. " Well, lets find Rajesh. I'd be remiss to enter a man's home without his blessing." "Of course." Said Nurendir. "After you your Majesty."
Their motorcycles roared as they entered the palace grounds and parked up, they had opted to journey to the celebrations in the traditional manner, tonight the clans would show their true selves to the assembled rulers. the traffic had been nightmarish even with a police escort, but it had been exhilarating to be mounted on iron horses again after days in stuffy cars and packed streets.
They all wore the traditional garb of clan bondsmen, fur-lined cloaks, rough spun Kaftans, breeches and tall leather riding boots, they frequently shocked diplomats with their outlandish appearance, but with tonight's diverse gathering that didn't seem likely. The only thing marking them as high ranking leaders were subtle markers of authority, leather circlets atop their brows and their cloaks dyed in the colors of their respective clans.
The heat was intense even in the evening air, but it was worth it to be dressed in their cultural garb, they would happily bear the discomfort if it meant announcing to the world that this was who they were. Helbrandt was already scowling, Gaiseric was certain he was about to hear the Karg express displeasure about something.
'Is everything in this land sodding gold!?' Helbrandt grumbled as the delegation dismounted their bikes and strode into the waiting ballroom
'I take it you do not approve of the decor Helbrandt?' Gaiseric said with a knowing smirk
'I could outfit a small army of men if I melted down the gold on these walls' Helbrandt replied pointing to the bright arches with an irritable wave of his hand
'Perhaps, but we are not going to be doing that or anything else to offend our guests, I always find the easiest way to enjoy these parties is to find one thing I like and focus on it, hence why I am heading for the nearest glass of Predicean red' Gaiseric replied in a firm voice
'Just one more night and then I don't have to worry about diplomatic outrage' he thought wearily
'Think they'll be bothered if I smoke' Anegrette asked cigarette already lit
'A better question would be is anyone brave enough to actually try and stop you?' Gaiseric replied with a knowing grin
Alric was already inside savoring the delights of the buffet as he sat with a gigantic plate of food, the Essalanean table was already stained with grease and beer, Gaiseric sighed inwardly and reached for a glass of red being offered by a tray bearing attendant, he thanked the attendant and then took a long sip.
'Lot of people in tonight, that means a lot of opportunities if we choose our words carefully' Gaiseric said as he gazed around the room
Syrixians, Merilians, Alnarians, and even a delegation from not so distant Prydania all mingled and filled the vast ballroom, it was as if the entirety of Eras was attending the celebrations.
'That I shall leave to you youngsters' Magnar said tapping Gaiseric on the back
'You won't be mingling then?' Gaiseric asked
'Benefits of being old, I don't have to do anything, no I think ill take a seat at our table and indulge in strong liquor and minimal conversation' Magnar said walking to join Alric with a wolfish grin
'Just us then' Gaiseric said with a chuckle
'guess so, maybe you should go see the Prydanians, they seem like good company' Anegrette replied before taking a long drag on her cigarette
'What about you?' he asked
'Don't know, the Alnarians seem fun, might go an see if they want any illicit goods' she said with a wicked smile, Gaiseric wondered nervously to what extent the Pirate Queen of the Fenixian strait was joking
'And you Helbrandt?' Gaiseric asked
The Karg chieftain didn't respond, he looked like he had just been struck very hard in the skull, Helbrandt was staring in the direction of the Sil Dorsettian delegation, he didn't answer Gaiseric, he just strode off in their direction as though in a haze.
'Ziu preserve me! please don't let one of them start a war' Gaiseric thought with a groan, his glass was almost empty and he felt like he would need a great deal more red to get through the night
He drained his glass and reached for another as an attendant took the empty, at least the refreshments were pleasant.
Tobias let Magnus head in the direction of the Prime Minister Madeline Ellison of Sil Dorsett and her family. He passed for now. He didn't want to interfere with Magnus' jovial brand of diplomacy. The Syrixian Emperor was busy attending to his close friends from Goyanes. And he knew he would be busy all night. He was sure he would get a chance to visit with him again in due time.
Right now, however, he made his way to the bar. The walk itself was something that made him a bit self-conscious. He was used to people keeping an eye on him. He had to tell himself that this was the rarest of events, where being a King didn't make him stand out. And that proved to be remarkably calming. So too was the fact that the bartender and other attendants were used to waiting on the Syrixian Imperial family. And wouldn't seem put out by who he was.
"Pardon me" he said with a smile in Makari-accented Mercanti.
"Yes Your Majesty?" the bartender asked with a respectful nod.
"You wouldn't happen to have any brennivín would you?" Tobias asked.
"I'm afraid not, Your Majesty" the bartender replied.
"It's rare brennivín makes it this far south these days."
Tobias chuckled, slightly embarrassed for having asked.
"What about Andrennian akvavit?"
"Of course Your Majesty" the bartender replied, turning to prepare the drink.
Tobias leaned one elbow against the bar, turning to face the gala. It truly was beautiful. The Syrxians managed to somehow make ostentatious appealing. He turned back around to the bartender as he was handed his glass.
"Your Majesty" the bartender said, sliding the glass to him.
"Thank you" Tobias replied with a smile, taking the drink and sipping it. Everyone always said akvavit wasn't brennivín but he could swear it tasted the same before convincing himself that no, it was different. Definitely different. He briefly considered where he should be heading.
To Magnus with the Siliens? He wasn't going to be sitting by himself at his table. He caught sight of the Alnarian Emperor and Prince Nurendir approaching Rajesh.
But then he noticed he was walking close to a particular table in his absent minded wandering. And though he thought he'd need more liquor in him before he tried to keep up with this crowd? Well it seemed fate had steered him in this direction early.
"Gaiseric?" he asked. He hadn't seen him since the formalities of ratifying the Luscova Pact.
"It's good to see you."
Gaiseric sat at the table reserved for the clans, it was already a mess, Alric was lying back contentedly in his chair in what might be politely called a food coma. Magnar meanwhile had downed yet another glass of Vodka, Gaiseric had stopped counting after the fourth.
'Magnar?' Gaiseric said in a quizzical tone
'Yes my young high chief' the old man replied with a hint of good-natured mockery
'I've always wondered something?' Gaiseric asked
'and what is that' Magnar replied with an amused tone
'How are you still alive and able to drink like that?' Gaiseric asked with a mischievous smirk
Magnar did not immediately answer, he filled another glass and swirled it playfully before downing the entire thing in one smooth and unflinching motion.
'Young man if there is one lesson you remember it should be this, the secret to ageing well is knowing when to blow off steam, well...that and being a good shot' Magnar chuckled
The two men clinked their glasses together and took a long sips of their drinks before settling into a contented silence, it had been a quiet affair so far, other then Anegrette the clans had not made much of an attempt to mingle, there was an awkwardness to the cultural mix, the brutal honesty of the clans did not seem well received by the more eloquent and complex societies around them.
Anegrette, of course, had little trouble with unhorsed events, her clan had spent its entire existence dealing with outsiders, she moved between kings, queens and presidents like some fierce adder searching for its next meal.
'Gaiseric?' A familiar voice called out 'its good to see you' the voice said, it was a young man's voice
Gaiseric turned to see the young king of Prydania 'Your Majesty' he said with a slight, respectful bow of his head
Perhaps Anegrette had been right, she usually was, there was plenty to discuss with the king of Prydania, two men with the blood of old Gothis could easily find common ground. He raised his glass in a toast
'To the health of the king', he said draining the red in one swift and practiced move
People were beginning to fill in quickly, but of course, of course, the first one to greet the Emperor just so happened to be the Arc-Wonderess. It was time for Rajesh to play it cool and hope that the McMasterdonians would only come in after he had finished greeting the leader of Sutherland. The two talked jovially, about the Empire's recognition of the Lake Prime Declaration and the things they discussed in their private meeting earlier in the week, among other miscellaneous, small-talky topics. Eventually when the Goyaneans showed up, they joined in too; they were always welcome under the Palace's roof, and it was refreshing that McMasterdonia's delegation still hadn't showed up.
A few minutes later, thankfully, the McMasterdonians' absence still held; though they'd obviously be coming at some point. Finally, though, Rajesh finally got his 'out' when it came to the Sutherlanders. Prince Diego of Highton entered the scene, with the Emperor and Prince Imperial of Alnaria in tow. "It's been a while, hasn't it..." Diego stated, after shaking the Arc-Wonderess' hands. "Your Majesties!" the Emperor responded. "So very good to see you tonight." He turned to the greater body of delegates before him- Goyaneans, Hightonians, Alnarians, and Sutherlanders- and spoke to them all. "I hope you've *all* been enjoying this week as much as I have. I will remember it for the rest of my life; I hope the same is true for you as well. I certainly hope we have been good hosts!" he said, with a chuckle at the end.
If the pressure of being seen by a congregation of world leaders wasn't stressful enough for the Prime Minister, wearing a formal gown, sash, and tiara for the first time in her career only compounded the discomfort. It didn't help that she was alone, with her royal counterpart having withdrawn back home on that Wednesday. Having to explain Claidie's absence was going to be a pain and a distraction, along with the fact that she was even more distracted by her motherly need to keep her children nearby and out of trouble. She kept them at arm's length, even as her counterpart from Prydania approached.
"Magnus Brandt, Prime Minister of Prydania. It's a pleasure to finally make your acquaintance," Madeline heard the Prydanian Prime Minister say in greeting.
"The pleasure's all mine, Mister Brandt," Madeline followed. "I'm looking forward to discussing our collaborative agricultural projects some more. I'm sure we'll have a chance to discuss some benchmarks and statistics later."
She didn't see a need to introduce herself since it was clear Magnus already knew who she was. Her daughters, however, were another story. "In the meantime, I'd like you to meet my two eldest daughters, Rachel and Heather. They're here for an extra social studies lesson," she said, grinning almost obnoxiously.
"Hi," Heather and Rachel each said, unenthusiastically waving. The children were bored and disinterested already but were skilled in only looking nervous. Their barely open eyes widened to their physical limits, however, when they caught sight of a certain Karg chieftain coming near.
Unsure of who she looking at now, all the Prime Minister could do was say "Hello", introduce herself, and hope for the best.
While Claire and the Empress of Syrixia chatted on, Anthony excused himself from the table and walked over to where Diego was seated, weaving his way between tables of dignitaries and VIPs. The room was loud, and he tended to get tunnel vision in such situations, honing in on his target and getting there. When he got to the table he saw Prince Diego there.
Following the greetings of the Syrixian Emperor and the usual pageantry of entrance, the two men made their way to the bar. Not out of any particular desire to indulge their mutual admiration for fine alcohol, but to survey the assembled Royals, nobles, and distinguished guests gathered in the golden palace. Per his earlier comments, Nurendír was looking for anyone who looked out of place at an event so warm and lavish. It did not take him long to spot several possible targets. He was happy to see the delegation from Essalanea in traditional garb, eating and drinking as if they were on the steppe. They did not know him, and he did not know them, but Nurendír had a strong feeling they would be fast friends before the night was out. Beyond the clan delegation Nurendír also spied King Tobias of Prydania. Tobias was young, and likely to be on that Northern throne until he and Nurendír turned old and grey. “Another good person to meet at this soirée.” Thought Nurendír aloud. “You’re talking to yourself again. “ Said Fenris through his drink. “Oh mind your own business.” Nurendír replied with a laugh. “Well father I’m off. Good luck to you old man.” Nurendír said raising his drink to the emperor. “And to you my son.” Fenris said raising glass in turn.
Nurendír gave his father a curt nod and headed towards the table of the Essalanean clans. As he watched his son walk away he couldn’t help but wonder what lay in store for him. Fenris was by no means of frail old man as Nurendír liked to joke. For 55 he was healthy and strong, with a sharp mind honed by decades of rule. Those decades however had worn on him. Each day the King considered passing on the throne to his son. He was proud of Nurendír, and of his abilities, but he understood his son’s wanderlust. “Maybe after this endeavor he will be ready.” Fenris thought to himself. He mulled over the idea over a few swirls of drink before spotting several other leaders of Iteria. Their arrival was a welcomed distraction and he had much to discuss with them over the league. Moving his son’s adventures to the back of his mind, Fenris downed his drink and made his way over to the others Lords of the East, content to settle into a night of drinks and discussion.
"I've heard such good things from His Majesty and my predecessor" Magnus replied to Prime Minister Ellison.
"It's truly a pleasure to meet you" he added as his Silean counterpart introduced her daughters.
"Hello" he said to them in a jovial manner, leaning ever so slightly into his cane.
"Make no mention of work" he chuckled to Madeline.
"I've got two grandchildren of my own. Torben and Lene. And no matter what, they have to come first."
He turned as he noticed the Karg chieftain approaching. He knew of the Karg...indeed most of the Essalanean tribes...but seeing one up close was something else.
Tobias, meanwhile, was having a far less shocking time with Essalaneans as he took a seat next to Gaiseric. It was a relief more than anything, to put an end to aimless wondering.
"To the health of the king!" he chuckled as he raised his glass of akvavit, adding the Nordic term for a toast before downing his.
"Rolte!"
He had only met Gaiseric briefly at the Luscova Pact signing, but he seemed agreeable. And far less interested in the airs a monarch was supposed to have. He felt he was able to relax to a degree.
"Syrixia's something, isn't it?" he said as he set his glass down.
"Personally the whole thing's too crowded, too hot, and too bright. As gaudy as this place is, at least we're away from that fucking sun."
Gaiseric chuckled at the king's comment about the heat, the Syrixian sun it seemed was disagreeable to all Gotics equally. The quip about the brightness was an agreeable one as well, on the steppe, a single campfire was visible for miles in the unlit night, here people never slept and it seemed as though the city planners wanted to challenge the sun for the title of greatest illumination.
'On the steppe, you can ride for days and not see a single soul, when strangers meet either greetings are given or men die, the exchange is never forgettable. Here people pass each other in greater numbers then I knew existed and never a word is spoken between them, this is a strange land' Gaiseric said as a servant attempted to pour him more wine, he held up his hand and instead poured his own glass
'Aye but at least they keep the drinks flowing' Magnar said with a booming laugh before polishing off his third bottle of vodka for the evening
'Indeed, they know how to throw a party, we Essalaneans appreciate good hospitality' Gaiseric agreed before taking another sip of wine from his cup
He liked this king, most rulers in Eras seemed content to hide behind title and ceremony as though they did not shit or piss like the subjects they ruled over. Tobias Lothbrok it seemed was cut from a different cloth, a monarch unafraid to speak plainly, man to man, this one would have made a good Essalanean Gaiseric thought with a broad smile.
Nurendir walked slowly towards the table where the Essalaneans were now chatting with King Tobias of Prydania. He was never in a hurry at a party and he always liked to see the mood of the room before entering a conversations. He saw Tobias and Gaiseric speaking, but was far more interested in the large man next to them with a small collection of bottles in front of him, and another held vertical over his mouth. Essalanea had always been a fascination to Nurendir, and he was adamant to make it across the straight before returning to Alnaria. He had been planning his drop off the grid for some time and he could not think of a better place to begin than the Steppe. He leaned against an immaculate column decorated with elaborate gold leaf as he contemplated his trip to that rugged land. For now however he needed to decide how to approach the topic with the Chieftain while he was engaged in conversation with King Tobias. Luckily the answer came to him in the form of a server walking buy with bottles to restock the bar. Nurendir took two or three of the most foreign looking liquor bottles he could find and set off. He walked up to an empty seat and placed the bottles on the table. "Gentlemen, mind if I join you?"
'Gentlemen, mind if I join you?' Nurendir asked as he slammed three unusual-looking bottles on the table
Magnar grinned and picked up one of the bottles, examining it like a jeweler would a rare gemstone. He set the bottle down and cracked it open pouring everyone on the table, including Nurendir, a tall glass of the strong-smelling liquid.
'Sinnitic rice wine, Good choice! Puts hairs on your chest youngun!' Magnar said raising a glass 'We don't have a sheathed blade to offer you but a liberal exchange of alcohol is usually a good place to start, To the health of our new guest...where was he from Gaiseric?' Magnar asked
'This is Crown Prince Nurendir of Alnaria old bear' Gaiseric said bowing his head slightly to the prince
'Oh Nerbangal of Alnasia' Magnar said in an ever so slightly slurred voice
'Alnaria' Gaiseric corrected
'Alnary' Magnar said getting it wrong again
'Close enough' Gaiseric said with a resigned grin
Gaiseric stood and raised his glass, clinking it against the other men's before downing it in one gulp
'Dear Ziu! this could strip the paint from a wall! we need to get more for the communal larder in Neuanfang!' Gaiseric said shaking off the potent liquor and grinning wolfishly
"Rolt!" Tobias exclaimed, giving the traditional Nordic toast as he raised his glass, taking a gulp of it.
"Goddamn" he proclaimed, getting the rice wine down.
"Where'd they'd find that stuff? Zhen?"
The liquor had an oily and nutty taste, certainly different from the akvavit and brennivín he was used to.
"Prince Nurendir" he said with a smile as he raised his glass.
"Very happy to meet you" he added, taking another drink, managing it far better now that he knew what to expect.
"I was just getting to know Chief Gaiseric" he said as he leaned back a bit, relaxing.
Almin! Said Nurendir toasting in his native tongue. He drank long and slow until his glass was empty. After taking a minute to appreciate a fine drink, he spoke. "You can find this all along the neon coast, its something of a local specialty." Nurendir poured himself and the others at the table another drink and settled into his seat.
Everyone at the table seemed to be acquiring a comfortable buzz with the exception of Magnar. The large man was a bright red, and stumbling over his words, but he was certainty having a good time. The sight of such venerable people partaking in something so simple as alcohol was comforting to Nurendir. He took another drink and dived into the conversation of the table. At first he, the King, and the Chief spoke at length of their homes, of their customs and of their favorite drinks. As the night wore on the lights in the golden palace began to dim. Warm with food and drink and good company, the men began to speak of their hopes and dreams, of loves lost and won, and of the future of their nations. This was why Nurendir loved these gatherings so, sharing these intimate human moments was to him the meaning of life. After a long lull in the conversation Nurendir saw his chance. "Essalanea, and Prydania." He said taking a slow sip. "With your permissions my lords I think more traveling is in order for the Crown Prince of Alnaria. Far more."
Nation (Full name): Republic Commonwealth Member?: <NO> Delegate(s) Attending: Prime Minister Chinar Dankhara, MoFA Aryamman Jani, Presidential representative Grace Kalish, and associated staff Lodging of Choice: The M Pataliputra Special Requests: The PM would like to arrange a meet to strengthen trade ties and facilitate tech transfer between the Syrixian Empire and the Republic of Eywaan. Any additional comments: ---------
Tobias chuckled to himself at the thought of having another drink. Rice wine...he didn't know what to expect, but it was was certainly strong. Still, he reached for the glass Nurendir poured for him. Maybe he didn't care to look like he couldn't handle his drink in front of Essalaneans. Maybe he felt personally affronted by the drink, that it dared to be as strong as it was, and he was determined to prove to himself he wouldn't let it conquer him! Probably both. Either way he took the glass, raised it, and drank. It wasn't nearly as bad the third time, and a warm buzz came over him.
He enjoyed the moment, being able to relax...being able to leave every care he had elsewhere. Not to be so concerned with...everything. And what people "expected." He just let himself feel at ease. Nurendir seemed quite taken with both his and Gaiseric's tales from home, and it made him smile. He'd grown up, hidden from the world in a way. And now...so much was at his fingertips. He found something relatable about Nurendir's curiosity about the wider world.
The light began to dim, though it didn't make Tobias ready to turn in. If anything it was a relief. So much about Syrixia was bright. Jade, gold, the unrelenting sun. He drank his rice wine and in a bit on his elbow as the conversation went on. Then Nurendir mentioned Essalanea and Prydania. And travel.
He thought for a moment. Much of Prydania was recovering from the War. Some places more quickly than others. Still, the country was far from devoid of wonders.
"I'd love to have you" Tobias replied with a friendly smile.
"Prydania's been through a lot, but it's a special place..." he said softly.
"Don't tell my future in-laws I said this, but it's got the best viking ruins on Craviter" he chuckled.
Gaiseric smiled at the thought of travel, the prince's ambitious plans reminded him of his own youth and the freedom he had enjoyed in those times. So much was sacrificed by a leader in service to one's people, freedom was one of the first things to go and far from the last.
'The Steppe is not for the faint-hearted my prince, the land is harsh and the people are quick to feud amongst one another, but if you wish to journey there I would guarantee your safety' Gaiseric said with a warm smile
He remembered the bygone days when his greatest worry had been watering his horse, when he had more time than sense, travel was important and the time to indulge in it was limited.
'You should travel as much as you can my prince, one day you will sit on your father's throne and when you do many of the joys afforded a free man will be distant memories, make the most of this time' Gaiseric said in a sincere voice
'Ha! send him south! if he brings any of that rice wine I'll take him elk hunting myself!' Magnar roared approvingly
'Perhaps he will do that old bear, but I have a more attainable first destination, Neauanfang is far too formal a place for the young and the Confederacy is no place for the untested, perhaps he should begin his journey in Kimbria, the free port is modern and vibrant and Anagrette never turns away visitors' Gaiseric said with a grin
Yes the Freeport, Gaiseric could almost smell the salt in the air, hear the wild music and laughter of the drunk and the drugged, taste the sharp kick of adder wine....and that was just the pleasures he dared to think about in public. Truly Anagrette's city would hold the young Nurendir's attention better than most.
