NationStates Jolt Archive

Reichsburg Times:

The Imperial Government announced today that Emperor Napoleon IV of Greater Prussia is seeking a bride. This is something most people gave up on as the Emperor very much seemed married to the State until recently.

However, it has been announced that His Majesty has sent tactful letters to certain heads of state to perhaps begin discussions over a match and is certainly willing to consider other offers.

So far we only know of two women who are vying for the Emperor's affections, the Regent of Right Wing Conspirators, and the Countess Marie de Stael. There has been no word of any decision on those suits, but the need for an heir in an Empire that has seen Four Emperors and none related to one another has certainly struck the Emperor quite forcefully after awaking from his 2 year long coma. The only way he can ensure the safety of his reforms and the safety of the Empire is by establishing his own dynasty.

OOC: If you want to make an offer, either do so formally by letter, or have them visit.

Always willing to extend a helping hand to former region mates, Price Rufus Mew the Third arranges for his daughter, Ayumi Mew, to be sent over to the good Emperor.

A fromal letter of introduction was sent ahead of the VTOL craft as it was prepared for take-off from the Shin-Ra Tower III. The young Under-Princess was quite busy packing her things, as well as undertaking a crash-course in English...

~~~~~~~~~


To: Emperor Napoleon IV
From: Prince Rufus Mew III

Greetings Emperor. As always, I am Prince Rufus Mew of Gnufasur. We were once region mates, but... Well, let's not speak of official matter here, shall we?
Instead, let us celebrate your recovery as well as search for a new bride. I have selected my only daughter, Ayumi Mew, as a potentional bride. She is well behaved, and although at current her English is a bit broken, she is learning.
Feel free to reply. Know that no ill will is held against your people or the region, and your shall always be welcomed within Gnufasur.
May good health and long life be yours always.

From,
~Prince Rufus Mew The Third

OOC: What language does she speak, and can you rangle up a picture if only to make the thread load slower? haha. Also, he is using the Royal "we". When he says we, he means I, and our, he means my.

IC:

TO: Prince Rufus Mew
From: His Imperial Highness, Napoleon IV, Emperor of Greater Prussia

Prince Rufus,

We thankyou for your kindness and generousity and wish to let you know as well that no emnity is felt toward your nation inside this Empire. The flags of our palace flew at half staff the day you departed.

We are very much anxious to meet your daughter and we am sure she will indeed be lovely. She will be accorded her own set of appartments in the Imperial Palace for as long as she would like to stay and as long as you would allow her to.

Peace be with you.

By the will of the People and by the Grace of God, I remain,

Napoleon IV
Emperor of Greater Prussia

OOC: Go ahead and post her arrival at the private Imperial Airport.

((OOC: Gnufasurian, which is the language all Gnufasurians speak. I'll include a sample in my post. And, piccy will be included with the arrival part of this post.))


Under-Princess Ayumi Mew is flanked by both sides by her honor guards (http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y245/Beta_Solution/top29.jpg) as she enters the Tower's private VTOL Pad. Although only two, her guards are the best warriors in all the land. Their armor and gear isn't flashy nor exstravgant, infact being only tactical gear and an armored jacket. Their weapons are slung.

Following her is her personal English instructor. For the moment, she doesn't speak. Surprisingly, her father isn't here.

Ayumi boards the VTOl craft, the pilot nodding to her as she enters. "Fa'na kuehk du ryja y hela yht csuudr vmekrd du Zihuh. Ed'c yh ruhun du vmo oui, sy'ys." He says as her honor guard board.

"Ed'c yh ruhun du ryja oui yc so bemud." The Under-Princess replies.

Her English instructor speaks up. "Nabayd... It's an honor to have you as my pilot."

Ayumi nods slowly, repeating what her instructor said. "It... en honor to half you as my pilet..."

"That's good. Nabayd." The instructor said once again. Throughout the trip, they exchange Gnufasurian words with English words, and memorize common English phrases.

The VTOL craft races towards the sea-side harbour town of Zihuh, where Ayumi and her entourage transfer to the waiting Sea-Plane (http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y245/Beta_Solution/mecha08.jpg). The plane takes off, making way for Reichskamphen.


Some time later the craft arrives, landing at the Reichskamphen's private Imperial Airport.

The Honor Guards exit first, weapons slung but their hands hovering them, ready to draw and fire at an instant notice. Taking a few steps forward, they bow to the waiting welcome committee.

Seconds after, Under-Princess Ayumi Mew (http://premium1.uploadit.org/BetaVerisonX//mizuabi.jpg) steps out, and is followed by her instructor/translator.

Following the soldier's lead, Ayumi bows to the committe. "Greetings. I am Ayumi Mew." She says.

"I am Alexeine Turner, her instructor and personal translator." Alexeine, her instructor, introduces herself as well.

To: Emperor Napoleon IV
From: Emperor James of Theao

I have heard of your search for a bride and have broached the topic to a few of the members of the nobility. Duke Leon Leonard has a daughter who is interested in meeting you. Valerie Leonard is a bit of a wild child, but fully schooled in proper behavior, as well as holding a Bachelor's in economics.

Wishing you the best, Emperor Jame of Theao

Emperor James,

I thankyou indeed for your response. The Young Lady is welcome to journey to the Imperial Capitol and reside in apartments in the Palace. I hope that we will get on famously.

By the Grace of God and the Will of the People,
Napoleon IV
Emperor of Greater Prussia

Valerie packed her bags, including a casual, modern formal, and classic formal clothing, as well as a number of personal items of varying oddities. As they arrived at the airport, she leaned over and gave her dad a good-bye kiss.
"Don't do anything too outlandish, alright Val?"
"Don't be silly daddy, when have I ever done anything too outlandish?" SHe asked with a grin.
Leon just shook his head and rolled his eyes at the memory of his daughter's escapades.

Valerie boarded the Leonard Family jet, followed by Gunter, who was confident, nanny, and bodyguard all roled into one neat package. The plane took off headed for the Reichskamphen's private Imperial Airport. As the plane commenced it's decent, Valerie made sure her brown, with light blue streaking, hair was properly neatly messy, and her make-up was properly done. Looking over her nose at the reflection of her green eyes, she smiled and wondered what the Emperor would be like. Once the plane had landed, Val exited the plane with Gunter in tow to meet someone, if there was someone.

ooc: Sorry, I will respond tommorrow. I had a reply typed but it went away, and I'm far too tired to do it again.

OOC: Tag.

OOC: Is this too girly for me? Probably. Am I just board enough to try it? Definately.

To:Emperor Napoleon IV, of Greater Prussia
From: Cel I, Lord Necromancer of Kabar and the Zombie Alliance, self-appointed king of Kabar and general of ZA Elite Special Forces, Zombie Division

Dear mortal,

My third-youngest daughter, Lady Cela I, has expressed a genuine desire to meet your majesty. She is young, having just a month ago been through her first Ressurection Ritual, and rather pleasing to the eye.(Though she does have a tendancy to cough up blood now and then.) Coincedentaly, it has come to my attention that you are searching for a suitress. Perhaps, if you are of the mind to, arrangments could be made for her and her entrouge to visit you and your fine yet grammatically incorrect country.

Mwhahaha,
Lord Necromancer I

OOC: I will handle one suitor at a time. Princess Mew arrived first, and though I will respond to other suits at the same time, they will be after she left, unless that is, she decides to stay and watch Napoleon recieve other suitors. I don't know of any woman whose blood that wouldnt boil.

The Gnufasurian Princess was met by two columns of brilliantly uniformed Imperial Guardsmen, each bearing the golden eagle standards of the Empire. A band off on the side struck up the Gnufasurian National Anthem followed by "Veillons sur l'Empire" (Watching over the Empire), the Anthem of the Emperor, though not necessarily the Empire. The two columns of troops in their sapphire blue uniforms formed a bridge of standards underwhich the Gnufasurian delegation marched. At the end of the bridge, a 1943 Black, Rolls Royce Limousine awaited, out of which stepped a man in civilian dressclothes reminiscent to the style of the early 1800s. "Your Highness, I am Prince Henri de Ritorneau, the Foreign Minister of Greater Prussia. The Emperor awaits you."

They drove down the quaint gravel road that led away from the small private airport in the extreme south of the 10,000 Acre Palace Grounds. The passed through pristine woodland, then into immaculately groomed French and English style gardens replete with baroque fountains and statues. Suddenly the gravel path turned into smooth cobblesone and more slowly, the enormous Imperial Palace came into view. It was in the style of Versailles, but it was laid out rather differantly. It would be thought that perhaps even Louis XIV would be jealous of this humble abode.

The car pulled up to the front of the Palace. There, standing infront, was not a military unit, or a band, but a reception party of one man, the Absolute Sovreign of the Greater Prussian Empire, Napoleon IV.

He wasn't as gaunt and angular as he was when he first ascended the throne, but he was reasonably trim, and he had cropped his revolutionary long hair into a Caesar-esque style. He wore the uniform of a General in the Imperial Guard, and looked rather dashing in it. The only differance was where the Generals rank on the shoulderboards would be, he sported an "N" surrounded by Laurel leaves with a crown at the top. His piercing, dark brown eyes seemed at once as if they could cut through steel, and then melt it with their warmth.

The Princess, flanked by her entourage, and the Prince de Ritorneau, exited the vehicle. As they approached the Emperor took in the vision that was Princess Ayumi Mew. Her beauty was devestating...then he noticed the ears. She wasn't human. The Emperor's mind began to circle around and around. Then he remembered his first girlfriend. She was an elf. 'It doesn't matter, she could well be perfect.' the Emperor thought to himself. Now that he looked at the ears further he decided they were sortuv cute.

The entourage came closer, and as Ayumi came closer he was hit again by just how ravishingly beautiful she was. The Emperor of the Greater Prussians, one of the most powerful and courtly men in the known world, at that moment wished to throw all courtliness out the window and tear the clothes off of her right then and there. But...he was a gentleman.

The Emperor drew his sword and offered it, handle outward to Princess Mew. "I am Napoleon IV, Emperor of Greater Prussia and all the Greater Prussians...and I hereby surrender to the beauty that is your face." A playful smile cracked accross the Imperial visage as he reached for, and kissed her hand.

To: Lord Necromancer I
From: Prince Henri de Ritorneau, Foreign Minister of the Greater Prussian Empire.

Your Majesty,

The Emperor has instructed me to inform you that he regretfully cannot accept the suit of a zombie as such a suit would cause an outrage within his lands. He appologizes for any offense this may cause you, and hopes that our nations can continue to be friendly.

Sincerely

Henri de Ritorneau
Foreign Minister of Greater Prussia.

As Valerie Leonard stepped off of the plane, she was greeted by a small contingent of the Imperial Guard, displaying the Imperial Eagles and decked out in full Imperial regalia. As the young lady walked between the two rows of Guardsmen that had formed up, she saw a man standing infront of a 1943 Black Rolls Royce Limousine. He wore a crown of laurels and rather opulent civilian clothing. As she approached, the man spoke to her. "I greet you in the name of the Greater Prussian people, you, who may be their future sovreign...Valore Lanyard." The young lady bristled a bit as the man butchered her name. Suddenly, one of the Imperial Guardsmen broke line and stood right behind her. "I will have you know her name is Valerie Leonard." he shouted out. Shocked, Valerie turned to see the soldier remove his shako, hold it under his arm, and then reach out for and kiss her hand. "That is enough. He said to the man infront of the car who immediately removed his crown and robe. "I am Emperor Napoleon IV, and I greet you in my own name, for it is me who you have dazzled so."

The Emperor and Absolute sovreign of douzains of Billions of people then opened the door for Valerie Leonard that she may get in the car. As she got in, he closed the door, and opened the driver's side door and got in. Switching the car into gear, the Emperor tore down the gravel road like a bat out of hell. "Has a nice ride doesn't it?" he laughed rambunctiously. "Oh, and welcome to Reichsburg, the capitol of the Civilized world." He laughed at their own advertizing sloagan. "Is there anything in particular you want to do while you're here?"

As she answered, he listened intently, but all the while examining her in the rearview mirror. Her hair was the first thing he noticed. She has a bit of a wild streak it seemed. So did he, but his never expressed itself in that way. 'Perhaps we need a little youth, a little wildness here. She may well be a breath of fresh air in this land where people seem to turn 80 after their 20th birthday." She was attractive allright. He could see that their may be some possibility...time would tell indeed though. Even if nothing ever came of it, Valerie Leonard could return home and could tell her children about the two weeks she spent with the Emperor of Greater Prussia...and he was sure that though he may not tell his children about these two weeks, they would be two weeks he would not soon forget.

"Besides get to know you?" She asked with a faint amount of an arched tone in her voice. "Interesting little event," She commented, "You do that often?" She was of course refering to the stunt with the man dressed up as Emperor Napoleon. As Gunter finished loading her bags he entered the back seat, and would be as silent as a ghost.

"What do you like to do?" She asked as she evaluated the handsome Emperor. She wondered how up-tight, or relaxed he was, "And personally, I wouldn't say no to a party, as well as a tour of some of Reichskamphen."

((OOC: Hmmm... Yes, Ayumi would probably have to give the order for her honour guards to shoot to kill competitors. Heehee. Catgirls are no less possessive then human girls. :P Some are even more so.
For some reason Reichskamphen, whenever I try to envision The Emperor, I always see Napleon Dynamite in a French Legionaire uniform saying "I was out-numbered by Ninjas and badgers over the weekend, but I beat them off with my great nunchucks skill! Idiot!"))


After making her initial contact, Ayumi had remained silent, watching with awe and wonder at the proceedings. She smiled as she heard and recognized her nation's anthem. While her honor guards always wore the same thing, and her instructor did as well, more or less, Under-Princess Ayumi Mew had a slew of personal clothes to choose from. For this occassion, she had choosen to wear one of her dresses, a flowing and beauiful pink dress with a royal purple top. Soft pink gloves ran the length of her arms, and a around her shoulders she wore a purest white mantle, made of the softest wool.

She bowed once again to the Prince Henri de Ritorneau as he stepped out of the car and introduced himself.

Taking a seat, her honour guards and instructor/translator following, Ayumi watches out the tinted window at the passing scenery. The various French and English style gardens she saw, as well as the statures and fountains amazed her. While her own home was beautiful in its own way, this was something new to her. It seemed, fresh. Natural. The Shin-Ra Tower III was a milestone of technology and architechual ingenuity, towering over all of Gnufasur. It was both beautiful and terrifying to behold.

But these, these (The statues and fountains, etc) were simple and very natural things. She doubted that much technology was used in the making of them.

The car finally arrives at the imperial palace. It was humble, simple. No ever present rays of soft illuminating lights, no glow of the multiple power reactors supplying power to almost all of Gnufasur. No low humming of power and energy moving at a constant rate. She was still waiting to see the moving machinery on the palace. It was a bit of a shock to Ayumi, as used as she was to the constant 'In your face' attitude technology adopts in Gnufasur.

She saw the one man standing outside, taking in his appearance. As the car came to a stop, she found the door being opened for her. She slides out, and begins to approach the Emperor. Her two honor guard exit as well, but remain near the car, confident of the Princess' safety this far in. Alexeine is a few steps behind the Princess, but is mindful to not be intrusive nor draw attenetion to herself.

"I am Napoleon IV, Emperor of Greater Prussia and all the Greater Prussians... And I hereby surrender to the beauty that is your face." The Emperor introduces himself. Ayumi knew he was addressing her, having already memorized his face and name, as well as the Greter Prussia parts. But, his compliment fell on deaf ears. She caught a few bits of it, but nothing to form a coherant sentance close to what he actually said. She let him kiss her hand.

Discreetly, Alexeine takes a step closer to her and whispers into her ear. Recognition passes Ayumi eyes, and she blushes. "Dryhg oui." She speaks, before realizing what she said, correcting herself. "Thank you." She repeated in English. That was one of the first things her instructor had made sure she had memorized in English. "I am Under-Princess Ayumi Mew." She returns the introduction.

~~~~~~~
Meanwhile, within the Shin-Ra Tower III

The forigen relations office was a hustle of activity. The Under-Princess original Dowry, slated to arrive a few days after the Princess, was lost. It seemed that a small mistake on the acquisition forms resulted in the Dowry being shipped to the South Island of Sands.

While normally it would have been easier if they had simply found the Dowry and reshipped it, the Dowry itself was nowhere to be found. Assumedly, it had been picked up by someone visiting the island, and they never turned it in.

And so, a new Dowry had to be made and prepared, and fast!


((OOC2: Felt like adding that last bit, for flavor. :P I know, I suck at describing things! For reference, Ayumi's outfit is simiular to THIS ONE (http://premium1.uploadit.org/BetaVerisonX//Zelda.png), of course, sans Tri-Force and such.))

OOC: Have the dowry ready, but we don't know if it will yet be needed. I am assuming that maybe one or two other girls will seek to vye for the Emperors hand, and then after that, he will choose one. If the Emperor doesn't take her, it might be a nice twist to have her fall in love with his brother Joseph, the King of Reichskamphen. It is very likely, that if Napoleon doesn't have a child before he dies, Joseph will become Emperor.

IC: "My lady, allow me to show you to your chamber, and perhaps we can then meet for lunch?" Napoleon motioned to the Imperial attendants who immeidately picked up the Princess's bags. The ascended the mostrous marble staircase that led to the column flanked grande entrance. Two Guardsmen opened the 30 ft. tall carved mahogony doors and all entered into the grande foyer. It was a truly enormous room. The ceiling soared some 300 feet high and from it were suspended some of the largest and most ornate crystal chandeliers in the known world, the one in the centre being the very largest. As the Emperor preferred natural light for these kind of meetings, the electric lights in the chandeliers had been turned off and the gas flames that seemed to look like candles had been ignited. Giant columns stood inside as well as statues that tucked themselves into carved niches in the wall. The floor was an alternating pattern of black and white marble squares, each about two metres squared. Infront of them all, stood the twin grande staircases that led to the upper levels of the mansion Fashioned out of marble but carpeted with red velvet, the curled elegantly toward the sky and were graced by ornate railings of solid gold. Flags and banners, often ones seized from the enemies of the Empire, some of them dating back to the early 1800's adorned the walls of this grande entrance.

As soon as they had enough time to take everything in, the Emperor proceeded up the grande staircase and into what seemed to be a neverending hall, decorated in Louis XIV style. There were occasional chairs, tables, and mirrors for those who tired on the walk to sit down, but mostly just a very long hallway. Only a very short distance in, the Emperor reached for two large french doors and opened them to reveal rather spacious apartments. They were also decorated in a very ornate, Baroque fashion, but with all of the modern amenities...atleast the ones they were accustomed to in the Kingdom. On the table in the breakfast nook sat a bottle of champagne chilling in a bucket with two glasses beside it. There were also baskets of candies and other goodies scattered about and the bathroom and wetbar were fully stocked.

"I will see you downstairs in 30 minutes? My attendant will guide you." The Emperor smiled and winked coyly at the Princess.

When the Princess made her way down into comparatively small personal dining room of the Emperor, she was met by the sight of the Emperor in much more civilian clothes, and even wearing a rather elegant silk smoking jacket. A prime rib with all the trimmings sat on the table inbetween two candelabras.

"Does this meet your tastes, or shall I have them bring out something else?" the Emperor asked.

"So, Ayumi...if I may call you Ayumi...is anything here similar to what you remember from home? How do you like it here?

((OOC: To make things easier, let it be assumed that whatever Ayumi doesn't know how to say in English yet she says in Gnufasurian and her personal translator translates word for word.))

Ayumi nodded as she sat down. "Prime Rib is fine to me. Although seafood is more to my tastes, I enjoy beef just as much as fish and lobster." She sat at the table, admiring the beef steak. Ayumi smiled. She adjusted herself so that her tail was more comfortable. "Yes, you may call me Ayumi. It's... Different here. In my home, everything is always moving. Machinery, power conduits, lights, even the Tower itself never stops moving. The Tower has been renovated and upgraded three times since I was born, to incorporate the newest trends in technology. Or so I'm told.

"But here. It's quiet. The constant noise of the twelve reactors surrounding the Tower gave me headaches, but here. I feel no pain. I can definately be happy here." She favoured the Emperor with a warm smile. "If I may... How well do you know my father?" She easily cuts the prime rib into small bite sized cubes, putting one in her mouth and chewing it as the Emperor spoke.

Napoleon listened intenseley as Ayumi told him of her home, which, incidentally, he had never visited. As he listened, he noticed her precutting her meat into bite-size pieces. If this weren't royalty, he would assume the girl didn't know the ins and outs of formal ettiquette, but as she was Princess Ayumi, he assumed that this must either be a custom where she came from that was differant from the rules of ettiquette in the rest of the Western world. 'Manners can be learned.' Napoleon mused to himself, 'but a personality such as hers cannot be.' He then replied to her question, but at the same time noticing the smile she flashed him and feeling an odd warmth as its effect sank in.

"Well, Ayumi, I will be honest...I know your father, but I don't know him as well as I perhaps would want to. I've been so busy managing this monstrousity of an Empire to pay attention to anything. I've actually known only a few people very well in my life...and I don't know whether you knew or not...but I awoke only a few months ago from a coma which I had been in for two years. Something like that changes a man...and I hope it has changed me for the better. The things that make me who I am are still here, but the curtains Ive put up to keep out the light are gone."

The Emperor cut a bite of his steak and chewed it contemplatively. 'Maybe a bit too much rosemary.' he thought to himself.

"All I knew of your father was that at the Imperial functions he was always one of the ones who treated me with respect, and never innundated me with useless flattery. He was a man who had his head on straight if anyone did. His departure was a great loss to us."

He ate one of the potatoes and it struck him as so good that he decided to eat another before he spoke further. After he finished chewing he asked, "You are an Under-Princess...Ive never heard of that title, what does it mean." He listened intently as she answered. "Also, in Gnufasur...how do they treat a person of Royalty...are you used to much pomp..or is it more toned down?"

((OOC: You're right, I don't know a lick about formal dining ettiquettes. lol It's hard RPing a character who's either smarter then you are, or know more about certain things then you do. I'll try my best though... >_>))


Ayumi tilted her head to one side slightly, putting one finger to her chin in a kind of thinking pose, deciding on whether to tell him the real truth, or the truth she was told. She decided on the latter. "I believe it's a throw back to the old Royal Mew Family of Krowemoh, before the Corporations took over Krowemoh. In the Royal Mew family, it was the elected Prince or Princess who had power, rather then the King or queen. If the King and Queen were still alive and their children had children, but it wasn't their turn to be elected into office, then they were called 'Under-Prince,' or 'Under-Princess.' Alot of people still refer to my Father as Prince Rufus Mew, rather then President Rufus Mew. I guess it makes sense for me to adopt that title?" It made sense to her, being a Gnufasurian, although to outsiders their government system might seem confusing and weird. Of course, the real truth of her title was a lot more painful.

Ayumi takes a second to enjoy another potatoe. Like the good Emperor, she found them to be very tasty, but controlled her urge to eat another one. "I'm no Princess Yumi Mew. People respect me, but I'll never be both as hated and admired as she was."

She was, of course referring to Krowemohian History. A powerful Psychic, Princess Yumi Mew, daughter/neice of Prince Rufus Mew the First, had both a dedicated following of worshippers, as well as a dedicated group of citizens who hated her. Ayumi refers to the fact that while she was as loved by the people as her father/uncle, Rufus Mew, she was also under constant assassination attempts, until she was eventually assassinated in the latter stages of her reign. She was both loved and hated by all.

"I believe it would be safe to say that in Gnufasur, people are royalty are treated just slightly better then everyone else. We're not pomped, but we're not ignored either." Truely, a Centrist state of mind.

OOC: Thats ok, now you know! lol.

IC: Napoleon chuckled a bit at her last statement, looking at the three attendants that stood by almost waiting for a crumb to fall from the Imperial lips so they could clean it. "I grew up in an Orphanage, sometimes I didn't eat for two days at a time." The Emperor drained the last of his water and poured himself a glass of Cabernet. With his facial expression, he offered Ayumi some.

"My father was the Duc de Sanglant, his father before him had lost a good deal of our money in a business venture...and my father drank...alot. He also had a propensity for gambling. Eventually, he lost the house and was forced to sell everything we owned. He was thrown into debtors prison...and I was three, so I went to an Orphanage. In a few years, a friend of my father who happened to be a master carpenter took me on as an apprentice. I studied carpentry and assisted, saving every penny I could to help pay off my father's debt. When I was 13, I recieved word that he had died in prison. As such, I was free to pursue the occupation of my choice. Though I didn't possess a domaine, I still had my title and qualified for one of the Royal Scholarships to the Academie Militaire. After I graduated from there, I enrolled in the Imperial Guard...the rest is history." Of course, it was not exactly 100% sure that she knew the history, but it could always wait until later.

"I don't need all of this." he waved his hand in the air gesturing to the palace, the attendants etc. "A good deal of it is more of a show than anything else. The people of Greater Prussia don't like to see their Sovreign out walking in the streets. In Reichskamphen, and in Prussia, the Crown is held in high regard and I must put on this play for my people."

To: Lord Necromancer I
From: Prince Henri de Ritorneau, Foreign Minister of the Greater Prussian Empire.

Your Majesty,

The Emperor has instructed me to inform you that he regretfully cannot accept the suit of a zombie as such a suit would cause an outrage within his lands. He appologizes for any offense this may cause you, and hopes that our nations can continue to be friendly.

Sincerely

Henri de Ritorneau
Foreign Minister of Greater Prussia.
OOC: It's ok, she was an assassin anyway.

"Besides get to know you?" She asked with a faint amount of an arched tone in her voice. "Interesting little event," She commented, "You do that often?" She was of course refering to the stunt with the man dressed up as Emperor Napoleon. As Gunter finished loading her bags he entered the back seat, and would be as silent as a ghost.

"What do you like to do?" She asked as she evaluated the handsome Emperor. She wondered how up-tight, or relaxed he was, "And personally, I wouldn't say no to a party, as well as a tour of some of Reichskamphen."

"No, infact, I've never done it before." Napoleon chuckled a little. "Did I have you?" he asked. "I generally don't get to have much fun with formal receptions, from what I heard of you, I figured you'd appreciate it."

"What do I like to do?" the Emperor pondered. "I haven't honestly thought about it in a long time. I really don't get to do much of what I like to do anymore. I like sharing a drink among friends...I ride horses sometimes, but not as often as Id like. Most of my time is filled up with attending formal functions...some of which is fun, but most of which I really don't like. It's necessary however. An Emperor can't rule a country...can't gain the respect of his people and the world abroad if he acts like a commoner...I have to act the part to remain the Sovreign. However, as much as that is true, I think I need to allow myself a little more time to be...well...myself. To be quite honest, I'm having plenty of fun right now." He flashed a smile into the rearview mirror and floored the gas, sloshing through a puddle he laid on the horn, chuckled a bit, and then drove normally the rest of the way to the entrance of the palace.

(OOC: I described the palace in the other entries to Gnufasur. In order to not be redundant, I won't repeat it, but will skip to her being escorted to her room.)

The Emperor got out of the front seat, and opened the door for the young lady and she accordingly stepped out of the vehicle. The Imperial footmen immediately took her luggage and carried it into the palace where it would be placed in her room. As they walked up the grande staircase to enter the palace, Napoleon leaned over and whispered into her ear. "And if you want a party...you've got one." As he backed away so she could see his face, he winked at her playfully. With exuberance, he marched through the entrance and whisked her into the Hall where she would be staying. Approaching a set of double doors, he opened them to reveal a room decorated in return from Egypt style. (OOC: It is like first Empire with alot of Egyptian motifs...1799-1804 is when it was really popular, but it has a decently sleek look.)

"This is the best we could do." Napoleon said. The room was enormous, much bigger than any bedroom even at Versailles. It had its own massive bathroom with a hottub that could seat up to three, and a shower that could accomidate two. It was all decorated in the proper glitz and flash that prevailed in what was now the Third Empire. (Or the fourth, depending what side of the pond you are from) There were baskets of every concievable delacy strewn throughout the room, and bottle of champagne cooling, and a fully stocked wetbar. Most immediately noticable though were the douzains upon douzains of red roses that seemed to be everywhere. Everywhere there was a vase, they were filled with them, there were bouquets of two douzain sitting on tabletops and the King Size bed itself was covered in Roses. A garland of them had even been fashioned that hung over the top of the door.

The Emperor smiled at her coyly and said, "meet you for lunch in half an hour."

"You had me a bit." She confessed, "And yes I did enjoy it quite a bit," She a half-smile graced her lips as well.

"I agree, many formal can be quite tedious, and decorum is needed much of the time. But you also have to find time to enjoy yourself or you get all stressed and worried and that makes you ill." She replied, smiling at his compliment. As he sped through the puddle, her smile grew, "That's the idea."

"Why thank you." She said with a mischievious twinkle in her eyes. She could tell that he was going to be very interesting to spend time with, especially as her presence seemed to be having a liberating effect on Napoleon. Meanwhile her Gunter trailed along silently behind them.

Her eyes widened as she examined the palatial room. "This is stupendous," she commented as she took in all the various acoutrements, foods and drinks. Reaching to pick up a rose, she added, "How'd you know my favorite flower?" As she picked it up, she pricked her finger. "Ow." She said as she noticed a single drop of blood well up on her finger.

"I'll see you then." She replied as she put the tip of her middle finger in her mouth to deal with the blood from the rose thorn.

When the time had arrived to meet Napoleon for lunch, an Imperial footman knocked on the door and escorted the lady to the informal diningroom. The informal diningroom appeared very formal indeed though, quite baroque in its ornamentation, but it was called thus because this is where the Emperor took his dinner every night when not accompanied by douzains of guests. He could wear whatever he wished, and so he did. He was in a red silk smoking jacket with gray, flatfront pants and a white french cuffed shirt. This was a far cry from the 1700's style suits that the Emperor generally wore at formal functions.

There were two candellabras set up on the table, and the room was lit entirely by firelight. A fireplace in the corner roared, the candle sconces on the wall were lit, and the candle chandelier at top was also lit.

"I forgot to ask, do you have any dietary restrictions?" the Emperor said as Valerie walked through the door. "Otherwise, the chef has prepared coq au vin and as long as you eat meat, I think you will love it."

"Sit down, please."

It was an oval table with the Emperor on one end and a place set for Valerie on the other.

"Something to drink? I'm having wine myself since that will pair nicely with the wine reduction sauce in the Coq au Vin."

After the drinks had been served, Napoleon picked up his fork and then paused with it in midair, then looked up at Valerie. "I appologize, and I know this is an odd question...but why did you decide to have the blue streaks in your hair?" He didn't ask from disgust, but from curiousity. It was clear that Napoleon was a man who didnt waste time beating around the bush. "I used to have long hair when I was a lietenant in the Royal Artillery...but...I cut it when I became Emperor. Mostly for appearances I suppose, but half of a Monarchy is just that...appearances."

Valerie arrived, dressed in a deep blue 'cocktail' dress, which had an odd, almost hypnotic design embroidered in red silk thread. She examined Napoleon's dress with interest as red, grey and white wasn't a combination she thought of before for clothing, but she found she liked it.

As he asked about diet, and for her to take a seat, she replied, "No, no dietary restrictions, thought I do have something against cooked peas." She added with a smile as she took her seat.

"You know your chef's skills best and I'll trust your culinary instincts, so I wouldn't mind the wine that you are having." She commented as she considered how his chef would prepare coq au vin.

"It's not that unusual a question." She replied after he asked about her hair. "Originally I did it to irk dad. We'd had a silly argument just before a hair appointment so I had it done. He doesn't like light blue, so I had my hair streaked with that, but after a while I decided I liked it, so I kept it." As he commented about his own hair and appearences, she added, "Do you have a picture of yourself with long hair, as I'd like to see it. And I understand the dictates of keeping up appearences, as I've had to deal with situations like that before as well."

Count Richard said to his wife "Napolean is looking for wife. Anyone we can send? Like Archbishop Jacob's sister?" while reading a newspaper. Queen Mariah stuck her head out of the bathroom "You mean I'm 4 years too late to become the Empress of Greater Prussia?"

He replied "You'd have to become a Protestant anyway. I doubt that happen - your mother would be rolling in her grave if that happened." Queen Mariah replied "Anyway, I had a reputation by before I was married anyway. As for who to send ... too much competition out there."

Ayumi nods slowly as she listens. It was very interesting. She herself couldn't think of any such thing happening in Gnufasur, or even Krowemoh, although she had never been to the space nation.

"I think you'd like it in Gnufasur. People expect President Rufus to be out and about, much like his great-great-grandfather, Prince Rufus Mew the First. He does enjoy being there for his people.."

She nods slowly, sipping some of her drink. "If I may ask... Does your Empire shy from technology? Pardon my ignorance, I've little exposure to the outside world, and much of my time is spent being introduced to my father's new regional mates. I do not mean any insult either." She certainly hoped he didn't take it as an insult.

"No offense taken." Napoleon smiled accross the table at Ayumi. "I think you must understand a couple things about our Empire. My control over these vast lands is in no wise comparable to your father's control over Gnufasur. There are other Kings and Emperors below me...each one with an ego. The only way I remain Emperor, and any Sovreign of this Empire has remained on the throne is by proving himself better able to lead than any of them...and so far beyond a doubt that all those who would seek ultimate power shy away from it.

This means, as much as I help my people, as much as I give charity, and as much as I may take tours of places around the country to raise moral...I can never act like a Frederic the Great. Frederic's princes obeyed him without question. Mine are far from rebellious, but I cannot break my facade...my fortress that I have built up and around myself. To them...I am "NAPOLEON", if they rebel, if they try to sow dischord and evil...they know that I can rally an army of millions to my side, and I will ride into battle at the front...I will sweep them away simply because I am better than any man they can field.

To you, I am just another man, because I want you to see who I am. But to them...if they see weakness, they will pounce. I am the Alpha Male because I act the part. I love my people, but I also have to concern myself with my Princes as well.

If all things conspire, and we are married...you need to Know that you are not marrying the Emperor of Greater Prussia. You are marrying a man, Charles Napoleon Sanglant. This is the purpose of our little visit, so you can see the man beneath the mantle and the crown...because I definately am yearning to see the woman that hides behind that alluring face." Napoleon smiled at her, consciously trying to make it the warmest smile he could muster...she deserved no less.

"As to technology," Napoleon leaned back in his chair, "We have one of the most advanced Stellar Navies. We are very adept technologically. However, my own personal country is like an anachronym. In fashion, in political thought, in everything, various parts of this country have never left the 19th century. We still use the latest in technology. We find nice ways to hide it beneath plaster and wood panneling, but its there. From this palace, I could conduct an Interstellar War if I had to.

I personally find the stark lines, the bright lights, the technoglam to be very unappetizing. I don't want to live on a Starship...and so I built my palace among the trees and the creeks and rivers. I built it so I could live comfortably without constantly being harassed by whirring motors and blinking lights...but I built it to be one of the most state of the art residences on the face of the earth."

OOC: Theao, I just typed a long reply and it timed out so when I went to post, I had to log back in and it deleted my post. I have guests over so its difficult to post much. I have to go to bed now, its almost 2 in the morning, but I will post tommorrow.

If he hadn't had control over himself, the Emperor's jaw would have dropped to the floor when Valerie walked into the room. At the beginning of his search for a wife, Napoleon had tried to tell himself that it was all just business. Now, maybe not right after he met her, but atleast now, he saw that it would be very difficult to keep it strictly business any longer.

He looked her over from head to toe, though trying not to be obvious about it. As he became more entranced and enraptured with her beauty, Napoleon IV, Emperor of Greater Prussia and all the Greater Prussians, the Absolute Sovreign of Billions who held their lives in his hands became nothing but putty in hers. He would have done anything just to touch her lips to his.

'Enough. Come to your senses.' he told himself.


-----

"Wine it is then." Napoleon flashed a smile at her as the wine steward brought a very dusty looking bottle for the Emperor to inspect. He nodded. The bottle was corked and the Emperor poured a taste. When he had determined that it was to his specifications, a full glass was poured and then one was poured for Valerie as well.

-----

"Yes, I do have a picture of myself with longer hair. Consequently, half the nation does as well. They aren't hard to come by. Before I became Emperor of Greater Prussia, I served as the King of Allanea to rebuild it from its occupation by Federation forces. I had the long hair then and became something of a household name." Napoleon took a sip of his wine. It was delicious indeed. He was finding it hard to concentrate. His eyes kept "wandering" due to the rather seductive cut of her dress. He did the best he could to make it not so obvious, and when he caught himself doing it, to correct it immediately. He made the greatest effort he could not to look. In the midst of that, it became clear to him that he had to tell her now. Any temptation to look anywhere but straight in her deep eyes was now gone. He looked into her eyes, noticing the soft lines of her face. He almost couldn't tell her, but he had to.

"One thing about my monarchy is, appearances matter a great deal. In Prussia...where other countries have movie stars and pop singers, we have Kings, Princes, Barons, Earls...and Emperors. As closely as the public watches those movie stars, they watch me also. The living mythology of the Empire is almost more important than the truth. People's hearts are stirred when they sea the golden eagle perched upon fluttering silk standards...the rows of troops marching by, and the 'Glorious Emperor'. The Paintings, the Sculptures, the stories...the Napoleon they have made me to be is almost more important than the man I actually am.

Princes fear my retribution and remain loyal, but it is also because their people do love me and they can't help but do so either...even if it is begrudgingly.

I am on a Crusade to make this world a better place. Would you follow a man who spent his time pandering to politicians and walking out in the streets every single day to show how close he was to his people...or would you follow a man like the world believes me to be?

Luckily though, I think my people will allow me to have fun on occasion." he winked, changing the mood, or atleast trying to make it more lighthearted. Then he realized, that he had yet to say what would be the most important to Valerie.

"I must have you know...that the fact that you are here will probably be in the front page of the paper tommorrow morning. And that if all things do conspire, if you become the Empress of this land...they will watch you just as closely as they do me. You won't be asked to change who you are...I could never do that...but you would have to play along in this great charade...that really has too much truth to be a real charade. You must be comfortable with being in the public eye...and be comfortable with the idea that you may have to change your hair to a differant colour at somepoint. After all superficial things like that don't really matter, atleast I hope the idea doesn't upset you much.

But I will also have you know that there are people in this world who believe me to be evil. I am not, but some say that I am. I have had every kind of insult hurled at my person that can be hurled, and though I have made mistakes...I am not evil. You may not have to endure that yourself...or you may have to...but either way, you will have to be able to listen to the things these people are saying and keep your faith." Napoleon took his glass of wine and polished it off.

"I'm a bit nervous, because I don't like talking about all this, but I figured I might as well get it out of the way. I have to be honest...you are the greatest breath of fresh air that has come into these halls of my heart for a very long time, and I can't not tell you about these things. It would be unfair to you, and that is something I couldn't and wouldn't stand for."

Valerie smiled slightly as she noticed the reactions exhibited by Napoleon. She was use to causing a reaction in men, especially in the dress she was wearing, thought the reaction she was getting from Napoleon was triggering a reaction of it's own as she blushed lightly and smiled.

-----

She took the glass from Napoleon's hand once he'd finished pouring it. "Thank you," She commented as she raised the glass to her nose to inhale the bouquet, "It smells excellent."

-----

She smiled as he talked about himself, his long hair, and his past history as monarch. Noticing that he'd shifted to a more serious appearence and tone, she met his gaze. She could tell he wished to talk about something serious, and while he might have been about to propose, she thought it was something else.

Luckily though, I think my people will allow me to have fun on occasion." he winked, changing the mood, or atleast trying to make it more lighthearted. Then he realized, that he had yet to say what would be the most important to Valerie.

She listened to his heartfelt exposition, paying attention to his words as well as the sentiment behind it. "I understand, perhaps more than you would guess from my behavior since I've meet you. I served a quarter term in the Theao parliment. I understand the scrutiny a politician goes under." She then smiled, "I'm sure your people will allow you a little fun." She then returned to her more serious tone and mode as she likewise took a sip of wine, "You may be a bit heavy handed, but of the recent news about you, you are a man who truely cares about his people. I don't mind letting my hair return to it's natural colour if necessary. I also thank you for your deep candor and honesty."

"I'm so very relieved to hear all of this." Napoleon smiled. "Now let's put it behind us and eat." The Emperor carved a piece off the Coq au Vin which had just been served. "Delicious." he said approvingly.

"If you want to go into the city today, we can go after lunch." the Emperor said between bites. "Or, if you would rather just lounge around here, that would be fine as well. We could walk the gardens, or there is a very nice lounge in my wing of the Palace."

The map in Valerie's room would tell her that the Palace was divided into four Wings, the largest one was the Government Wing, in which a good deal of the functioning of the Empire took place, the Arch Chancellery, where the Arch Chancellor kept his chambers and offices during his residence in Reichsburg, the Guest wing, where she was sleeping, and the Emperor's wing. That wing of the palace was usually closed to the public...and the public being EVERYONE except a select few people. The invitation would have indeed been an extreme honour if she knew anything about the functioning of the palace, which she likely didn't unless she had done her homework.

Napoleon held up his glass. "A toast...to us..and to Greater Prussia!"

She smiled, "It is delicious, my compliments to your chef."

When he asked about what she wanted to do after lunch she shrugged. "I'd be honoured to visit your private lounge, but I think that would be a little early, if you're willing maybe tomorrow thought. For now I'd enjoy visiting the city."