NationStates Jolt Archive

"My feelings for you are uncomplicated, I love you. I don't know what to say to help you see" Atticus said. He wished that there was some way to show her. But, Lehana was an experr at distancing, not by choice, but by circumstance.

After a moment of silence Lehana thought of something, "I have an idea. Why not have all the others come at once? I don't see the harm in that, I meet with them, say I'm not happy or whatever, and then oh well for them. I know it's not right, and I know I said I would give everyone a chance..."
Her voice trailed off, "I still could do that with all of them here, it would just be much faster than them coming one at a time. What do you honestly think?"

Atticus gazed into her eyes "Do whatever your heart tells you" his hand cupped her cheek, he smiled.

Lehana sighed, "I have a duty; I guess. Look, I know you may hate me for saying this, but perhaps you could humor my advisors. For example the eating thing. I really don't care, however maybe I could teach you some stuff; I think they're afraid you may make me look bad somehow. I am running a country after all."

"I could never hate you" Atticus responded. It's no problem for me Lehana, I'm willing to change for you"

Lehana stared for a moment, "I don't want you to totally change; it's the what I like to call, "looking nice for society." Do you think I dress nice, eat with good grace because I absolutely love doing that?"
The young woman laughed, "It was instealed in me, just like fighting was instealed in you; I was trained for lack of a better word."

" I see what you mean. I'm sorry for not seeming understanding before. I guess I didn't see it that way. I shouldn't have expected you to totally forget everything you were committed to." Atticus responded.

Lehana smiled, "Thank you now for your understanding; I was trained to be a queen, just like you were trained to be a soldier."

OCC: I'm done for the night. It's been really nice chatting today.

OCC: I'm done for the night. It's been really nice chatting today.

(OOC: Ok, thanks for telling me see you asap!)

OOC: Tarayshia did you forget about me?

Atticus looked at her and asked "What happens now?" He honestly didn't expect any of this to happen. He felt terrible about yelling earlier. But that's all in the past. He looked to the fututre with Lehana, and believed it would be a bright and happy one. He felt the ring press up against his thigh, the diamond digging in.

'Should I' he thought

OOC: Tarayshia did you forget about me?
I'm sure she hasn't, me, you, and all the other guys are just waiting.

(OOC: No, haven't forgoten..all of you will play a part soon.)

IC:
"I don't know what happens," Lehana took a deep breath before continuing, "However I know what I have to do, and what I want to do. I have to meet the others Atticus, however it will be on my terms and the advisors won't have such a big part in it all. I'm going to tell my advisors to put together a, banquet if you will, and I'll meet with all of them for that one or two evenings. I have completed my commitments and won't piss any nations off."
Lehana smiled, "This should show you that I take things that I commit to very seriously, including marriage."

Atticus held her hands "I understand. It's what you want to do and I'm fine with it. You do what you must. I shouldn't have doubted you" Atticus replied. He knew now what she wanted. He saw that she may not want to meet them but she had to.
"I'll wait for you." he said.

"I thank you," Lehana said as she smiled and squeezed his hands, "Now, back to what I was saying about well, pollishing you up, what do you think?"

"I don't know" he smirked "If I accidentaly choose the wrong fork, it could trigger a nuclear war. Sounds like too much pressure. Besides, how could one improve on perfection?" he joked. "Just kidding, it's no problem, I must admit that my table manners are a bit below par." Atticus looked her in the eys and smiled.

Lehana laughed, "Don't worry, nothing that strict. It's getting towards evening now, so we can start tomorrow to give you a good night's sleep and such. I'll help you, and if you want I can have my advisor Olina help you to. Out of all my advisors, I like her the most. She's sweet however speaks her mind; nothing like Saweta nor Margo. Margo is nice, but I'm afraid her and Saweta talk to much."
Lehana leaned closer towards Atticus as she dropped her voice to a whisper, "I'm thinking of letting Saweta go."

" Are you sure you want to drop her. I hope my exchanges with her aren't a part of it. I don't want someone to lose their job, though she did say ill things about me. Stuff that hurts a man's pride" Atticus responded. he remembered what saweta said about him and how his poor attitude reflected how poor a lover he would be. Even though that's all bull.

Lehana thought a moment before asking, "Atticus, be honest now. Have you ever been with a woman? I mean, I think I have a right to know if I'm going to perhaps marry you."
Lehana lowered her eyes, feeling like she was prying to much.

Atticus thought for a moment "Yes I have. It's important that there's no secrets being kept" he replied. "I don't mind your asking."

He believed that Lehana would be offended, but he told the truth.

Lehana smiled, "Thank you for telling me the truth, how many women? I mean, I haven't been with anyone; I just haven't."
Lehana slightly blushed, however she had heard a lot about the subject from her advisors and even a bit from her sister Jamila.
'So, how would I know any different if he wasn't, "good," to begin with?'
Lehana thought;

Atticus saw the look one her face, he replied "Several over the years. I don't recall hearing any complaints. So, I took that as a good sign."

Lehana gave a nervous laugh, "I would say that's a good thing. You had no children with any of them?"

"No. You don't have to worry, I don't have any children running around anywhere. I may not have been bright in my youth but I was smart enough to wear protection." Atticus responded, he didn't minde her questions, he had nothing to hide from her.

"Well," Lehana said, "That's good then."
Lehana said, "I don't have any other things I want to ask you. What about you?"

Atticus thought for a moment "Uh-nope, can't think of anything to ask" responded Atticus. He held her hand and smiled.

Lehana sighed, "So, where do you want to start in reguards to the training? Don't worry, I'll help you you won't look stupid. Do you want to go in?"

"I have no idea where to start, you know more than me what I'm doing wrong. What I do, usually seems right, but I guess it's not. Yeah, we could go in now." Atticus replied, still optimistic and smiling.

OCC: Are you going to post something?

Lehana smiled as she took Atticus's arm and turned to go inside the palace, "Well, we can start on your eating habbits if you like. This is easy, it's not that hard."
She hated bringing up the fact, however she knew that if she did help Atticus, no one could bitch about him and how he would do stuff wrong.

Atticus and Lehana walked away. "That doesn't sound too bad, just don't let your hands get too close to my plate, I might bite them off" he joked. He knew that learning all this stuff would make Lehana's life easier, which is something he wanted to do.

Lehana laughed at his joke, "Don't worry, I'm sure my hands will be fine. We'll have dinner alone, that way I can show you what to do, you seem to me to be a fast learner, right?"

Atticus smirked "I wouldn't still be alive if I wasn't a fast learner. As a soldier I learned to learn fast, so to speak" he replied. He felt better that they would be eating alone.

Lehana sighed, "That's good to know; I'm going to take you somewhere that I shouldn't, so don't tell anyone. I'm going to take you to my quarters, order dinner, then I'll go fetch our food and teach you the stuff that you need to know. I have a small dining room as part of my quarters."
Lehana stopped as she fished out a key from her pocket and unlocked the door, "And yes, my bedroom is part of these quarters, I'm just telling you that because that's the reason I don't want anyone to know you're here, they may get the wrong idea."

''Mums the word" Atticus said and he covered his mouth "I saw some of the guards around here, and they look like they'd snap my neck at the drop of a dime. I understand your caution." Atticus walked in and saw how huge the living quarters were. Since he couldn't let anyone know he was there he found a seat and planted himself there.

Lehana wasn't a flert by nature, however she moved closer to Atticus, rubbing herself against him, "Don't worry, when we marry they can't say anything."
She smiled as she turned and walked out of the room, shutting and locking the door behind her for his potection.

Atticus smirked as he saw her walk away. She closed the door and he slumped into his chair, exhailing deeply. He again pulled out the ring and wondered, examining it. 'Should I propose? Or wait till she's done with the other suitors?' he thought to himself. All he could think about was Lehana. he loved her and wanted to spend the rest of his days with her.

After ordering the food, Lehana walked back to the room, turning the key into the lock as she got the door unlocked and walked into the room.
"I ordered chicken with some other stuff," Lehana said, "Is that alright?"

Atticus was nervous at first when the door knob turned. Luckily, it was just Lehana "For a second I thought it was Saweta and several bodygurads, come to beat him up. Oh, whatever you got is fine with me." Atticus replied.

Lehana sighed, "Don't worry; what's in your hand?"
Lehana briefly glanced at his hand, then turned away as she looked for a chair to sit in.

Fear ran up his spine. 'Oh shit!' he said to himself, he forgot to put the ring away. Then he thought 'Should I tell her the truth, or brush it off?'

He took a deep breath and decided to tell the truth "It's a ring" he finally said.

Lehana stopped what she was doing and turned to Atticus, "Atticus, what's that for?"
Deep down, the young woman knew however she could've been wrong. Lehana sat upon her chair, looking at the young man.

"Uh-It's something I brought along. I've been contemplating when and if I should ask you to marry me. I don't know if I should wait till you're done with the suitors ot not". Atticus replied. He was so nervous that she saw it.

Lehana sighed, she could tell that he was nervous however she couldn't think of what to say for a moment. Rather it was a blessing or a curse, she heard a knock at the door, "Your majesty, your food is here and done."
"Just a moment," Lehana said as she stood and walked over to the door, unlocking it and opening it.
"Thank you," Lehana said as she took the tray from the servant, keeping her back to Atticus, "You may go, thanks."
"I can help you set this up," the servant began as Lehana cleared her throat.
"I said please leave," Lehana said firmly, "Thank you for coming."
The queen shut the door and locked it, bringing the tray over to the table and setting it down.

OCC: I don't know what to say

OCC: I gotta get going, nice talking today. You make something up

Kulikovo
OCC: I gotta get going, nice talking today. You make something up.

(OOC: I know this is short, however here we go.)

IC:

"Well," Lehana began as she sat down, "The food is here, I bet you're hungry."
The dinner came with silverwear and napkins, glasses and a piture of water. There was chicken, potatoes, corn, salid and bread with butter.
"I hope you like this stuff," Lehana said, "I ordered stuff that we could practice on that most banquets have."

Atticus took a sigh or relief, when she turned her back, he slipped the ring back in his pocket, even though it was too late. "It all looks delicious" he said, gazing at the food, he hadn't eaten in a long time.

Lehana pointed to the chair that sat across from her, "Come and sit down, I've set the silverwear exactly how it is set in a former situation."
Lehana picked up her napkin and placed it upon her lap, "I know this stuff is boring, however if it helps think of it as training for something big. I know I hated learning this former crap."

Atticus took the seat across from her. He already didn't enjoy what he ahd to do. "Who knew eating had to be so complicated?" he asked. He tried to imitate everything Lehana did, he managed just fine.

At so many times he just wanted to forget about courtesy and just eat the damn food. He never understood wht aristocrats did stuff in such complicated manners. They probably just do it to widen the rift between them and the 'lower classes', the proletariats. But, he couldn't blame Lehana, she didn't make all this up, it wasn't her idea, she didn't even like doing it.

It was all a far cry from when he was a soldier. During the revolution, he was lucky to have anything to eat once a day. Food was scarce for the revolutionaries. But, he survived. But here he was, deciding which fork to use. That' something he never had trouble doing before, beacsue there was only ever one fork. But, he held his comments about the whole thing. He knew Lehana wasn't enjoying it either.

"In all my life, I've never had such a difficult time trying to eat. It's something that shouldn't have a certain way of being done. And it shouldn't take much thought. I've never stopped to think if I'm using the right fork!" he said.

Lehana swallowed her food before replying, "I know what you mean, I was four years old when I began this kind of training. I remember my mother for slapping my hand because I'd like to bang the silverwear together."

Atticus snickered at her comment "I used to clank my silverware together as well. I had terrible eating manners even at a young age. I always played with my food, or threw it at my brother. usually my father would smack me upside the head" Atticus said.

Lehana smiled, "Yeah, your eating fine now, no one will notice. Just remember to swallow before you speak, to use the smaller fork for salids and the bigger one for the actual dinner and you'll be fine. Also don't put your elbows on the table, I used to have a problem with that as well."

Atticus smirked. He purposely put his elbows on the table and used the big fork for his salad and rambled on with food still in his mouth, just to irritate her a bit, just for fun. He said through his stuffed mouth "What did you say?" He was acting like a child. The only difference is that no one was smacking him upside the head.

Lehana laughed at his jokes before clearing her throat, "I'm serious. I hate being that way however I'm serious about this."

"Serious about what? I'm not doing anything!" Atticus mumbled as he chewed a mouthful of food "I'm completely serious, it's you who needs to shapen up" he responded.

"I can mess around just like you," Lehana replied as she set down her knife, "I'm just trying to teach you stuff."

Atticus swallowed his food the second she put the knife down. For an instant he thought he was going to have to contend with a knife wielding Queen.
"You don't need to threaten me with a knife" he joked "I'll do what you say, just don't hurt me!" he said as he cringed in his chair.

Lehana smirked, "I'm not going to hurt you, calm down."

OCC: I'm off, nice chatting.

"Oh thank heavens, I thought my life was in peril for a moment." Atticus replied, still smirking like a child.

(OOC: Ok, I'll finish this up)

IC:
Lehana laughed as they ate there food in silence, Atticus basically getting everything right. After the dishes were empty, Lehana placed them back on the tray.
"So," she began, "what would you like to do now?"

Atticus looked up at her and pondered. "I don't know, what else do you think I need to work on?" he asked. "I for one, can't see anything wrong with me" he chuckled.

The queen slightly chuckled, "Well, not being so arigant."
Her voice was light, however she was a bit worried that he may get carried away with his, "jokes."

Atticus saw the look on her face and held her hand. "I'm sorry, sometimes I get carried away. I was always a joker." He felt bad, she was trying to help him and all he did was crack jokes.

Lehana sighed, "It's alright, just be careful. The only thing that you should keep in mind is to watch what you say to people."

"I will certainly try to restrain myslef. My habit of being a smart ass always got me in trouble. But, I apologize and I will hold my tounge" replied Atticus "Uh-What else do you think I need to work on, besides my being a smart-ass?"

"There's nothing wrong with being a smart-ass," Lehana replied, "I am to sometimes; I don't know if you can tell that. Anyways, I think that's pretty much it; unless you can think of something. I'm serious about that, if you can think of something that you feel you need some help or work on you please tell me.."

Atticus thought for a moment. "I can't think of anything. I'd better sneak out of here before anyone discovers that I'm in your chambers. It would give Saweta the perfect excuse to have me beaten up" replied Atticus.

Lehana chuckled, "Saweta can not do anything with out me finalizing it."

"Yes, but I probably should leave." replied Atticus

Lehana took his arm and led him towards the door, "Alright," she said as she took her key and unlocked the door. After she opened the door and made sure no one was around, she opened it wider.
"It's all clear," she said.

Atticus turned to her "I shall see you soon, my lady" he said wiht a proper english accent andbowed smartly and tried to sneak away.

Lehana watched as he backed out of the door, shutting it as he left.
"What are you doing in this part of the palace?"
The harsh sounding voice of Saweta came from around the corner;

Atticus thought quick "My dear Saweta, thank god you arrived! I'm am lost, again. I get lost everytime I try to get anywhere in this palace. You really need to put maps up with the little dot that says 'you are here'. That would be a great help to future visitors to the palace. Could you tell me how to get back to my room?" Atticus asked.

Saweta raised an eyebrow, "And, right in front of our queens chambers."
Saweta cleared her throat, she knowing that her queen could do better than this Atticus man; the jealous advisor would try and see to it. However she gave a smile and said, "Well, this palace is very very big, I can understand your confusion."

"How am I to know this door isn't just a door to a broom closet. That's another thing, you should label these doors or something. I would like nothing more than to find my room and rest." replied Atticus.

Saweta sighed, "Alright, follow me."
The advisor had no proof of what he had said was untrue, so she dropped it as she began to walk in the correct direction that Atticus's room was located.

Saweta navigated through the corridors with ease, Atticus trying to keep up. He hated Saweta with a passion. At last they came to his door.

"Thank you so much Saweta, you are a lifesaver" said Atticus and he slipped into his room and shut it. He turned and flipped Saweta off, luckily the door was in between the two.

OCC: I'm done for tonight, nice talking with you.

Saweta smiled as Atticus said his thanks, "You're welcome, I hope you know where your room is now."
As he closed his door the young woman turned and walked away, determined to get some other suitor thus king to take Atticus's place.
The woman not knowing exactly why she didn't like the young man;

(OOC: Alright..thanks for telling me see ya asap!)

Atticus gave a huge sigh of relief, he was safe. The weary young man made his way to the bed and collapsed on it.

'What an interesting day' he thought to himself.

After Atticus had left, Lehana straightened up her chambers as she listened to the conversation outside. The queen smiled as Atticus made his recovery and the queen waited for the two to leave before slipping out of her room carrying the tray of empty dishes.
"My lady let me get that," a servant said as Lehana was half way to the kitchen, "You should've called for someone."
"I'm perfectly alright Lana," Lehana said to the maid however she let the girl take the tray from her.
"I'll be taking a walk," Lehana said as she turned and wandered through out the palace, she not feeling tired since she had taken a nap that afternoon.

'That was a close one' Atticus thought as he took off his shoes. He wiggled his toes, then got up and wandered over to his bag, where he put the ring. He couldn't leave his room anytime soon, it would add fuel to Saweta's suspicion. he knew she'd do anything to get rid of him.

From behind a bend, Saweta spotted Lehana as she walked around the palace, not seeing Atticus with her Saweta made to aproach the queen.
"Your majesty?"
The advisor called out, "May I walk with you? There's something I feel we need to speak about."
Lehana slunk her shoulders as Saweta came up to her, not feeling like dealing with whatever Saweta wanted to talk about.
"What is it?"
Lehana asked as she continued walking;
"Your majesty," Saweta began, "I think it's time for us to send out the message to all the nations that we are having a banquet for all your suitors to come to."
Lehana knew it couldn't be avoided so she replied, "Fine, you write up the message inviting all the suitors to come; Atticus will be attending as well."
Saweta gave a little sigh, "Of course, you just remember to give all men a chance..."
"Fine," Lehana stated, "They'll all get a chance, please leave Saweta and do as I order."
Saweta was a bit startled by her queen's tone however she replied, "Of course, right away your majesty."
She then turned and hurried quickly to her office, finding Margo and Olina along the way. The three women went to Saweta's office to write the message.

(OOC: To Be Continued with the message next.)

From: Her Majesty Queen Lehana of Tarayshia
To: All nations and peoples

We thank you for your time in reading our message. Her majesty, queen Lehana is having a banquet in order to seek a suitor. This banquet will be held with in the next week. Our majesty seeks someone tall, respectful towards all women, a man that likes children, a man that does not mind that our country is run by women, someone that shares our queen's interests, somewhat athletic, and has an open mind.
We welcome you to our country! If you have any questions, please contact us.

Here is some information on our queen:

Hair: Long ebony to her waist
Eyes: Blue
Height: 5 foot 7 inches
Weight: 135 LBS
Skin: Tan
Interests: Music, art, history, writing, reading, swimming, running, and many more interests.

Thank you for responding,
The Nation of Tarayshia

From: Her Majesty Queen Lehana of Tarayshia
To: All nations and peoples

Her majesty, queen Lehana is having a banquet in order to seek a suitor. This banquet will be held with in the next week. Our majesty seeks someone tall, respectful towards all women, a man that likes children, a man that does not mind that our country is run by women, someone that shares our queen's interests, somewhat athletic, and has an open mind.
We welcome you to our country! If you have any questions, please contact us.

Here is some information on our queen:

Hair: Long ebony to her waist
Eyes: Blue
Height: 5 foot 7 inches
Weight: 135 LBS
Skin: Tan
Interests: Music, art, history, writing, reading, swimming, running, and many more interests.

Thank you for responding,
The Nation of Tarayshia

The suitors who have already responded, can they come to the banquet? I mean suitors like mine or one of the others.

The suitors who have already responded, can they come to the banquet? I mean suitors like mine or one of the others.


(OOC: Yes, everyone.)

Atticus stretched his back, his spine cracked all the way up. He looked at a clock to see what time it was. He put his socks and shoes back on and went to open the door. His hand was on the knob 'I hope Saweta isn't about' he thought and he turned it, and left the room. After a few turns he was lost...again. So he wandered around.

The suitors who have already responded, can they come to the banquet? I mean suitors like mine or one of the others.


(OOC: Yes, everyone.)

When is the banquet to be held? Just so I can know when to send my suitor to meet the Queen.

(OOC: I don't know. Can you please make your posts fit the rp? Like, if you wanted to know when the banquet is, have someone write a letter to the queen.)

Clarence had just recently gotten the letter from Queen Lehana. Reading it a couple time he got paper for the typerwriter. Putting the paper in he started to type.

Dear Queen Lehana,

I have recieved your letter. Two days ago I sent you letter. I would like to know when I can come to your country.

From,
Clarence Potter

Lehana walked around, thinking of where to go. When she saw Atticus some ways off she called out to him, "Atticus, wait up!"

(OOC: I don't know. Can you please make your posts fit the rp? Like, if you wanted to know when the banquet is, have someone write a letter to the queen.)

OOC-Sorry for that. My system was acting up and that.

To: Queen Lehana of Tarayshia
From: Roman Greece

Greetings. We, Roman Greece would like to be notified of the date of the banquet that will be held by Her Majesty the Queen in Tarayshia. We would like to know so that we don't miss it or anything. Please notify us in your reply.

Sincerly,
Roman Greece

When Saweta returned back to her office, she smiled as she saw the message from the suitor. She sat down and began to type:

From: The Office of queen Lehana
To: Clarence Potter

Mr. Potter, our banquet will be held on Saturday. The day right now is a Monday. Could you please include some information on yourself? Such as looks interests..etc?
We do hope you can make it
We thank you for your reply,
The Office of queen Lehana

From: The office of Queen Lehana
To: Roman Greese

Hello,
We thank you for your reply. The banquet is this Saturday, it is a Monday now.
We hope you can make it,
Office of queen Lehana

To: Office of Queen Lehana
From: Clarence Potter

I will make it. Here is some information about me.

Hair: Short Blond hair
Eyes: Blue
Height: 5 feet 11 inches
Weight: 155 lbs.
Skin:
Interests: Hiking, Skiing, Archery, Art, Reading, Music, History, and much more.

I hope this is sufficient enought for you.

From,
Clarence Potter

From: Office of Queen Lehana
To: Clarence Potter

Dear Mr. Potter,
We sincerely thank you for your message. We look very much forward to your coming. Room and board will be provided.
The Office of Queen Lehana

After Saweta had sent the above letter, she rose from her chair and walked out to try and find the queen. As she past Margo, she quickly relayed to her what was happening before asking her to tell the others.
"I'll do that Saweta," Margo replied as Saweta hurried along.

From: Clarence Potter
To: Office of Queen Lehana


We may I leave to come?

From,
Clarence Potter

Atticus stopped and turned around to see Lehana. He smiled and said "Hey, what's up?"

From: The office of Queen Lehana
To: Roman Greese

Hello,
We thank you for your reply. The banquet is this Saturday, it is a Monday now.
We hope you can make it,
Office of queen Lehana

To: Office of Her Majesty Queen Lehana of Tarayshia

We will make it at that time. We are getting ready for it.

Thank you for the invite,
Roman Greece

OOC-Can I be notified of when the banquet has begun?

OOC-Can I be notified of when the banquet has begun?

OOC: Yes, I'll tell everyone when it has started.

"Hey Atticus," Lehana said as she walked towards him, "Did you slip away from Saweta alright? I'm glad my door isn't labeled; or else she may say that you were seeking me out."

OOC-Can I be notified of when the banquet has begun?

OOC: Yes, I'll tell everyone when it has started.

OOC-Thank you for that.

"Oh, I did just fine. I could be an actor." replied Atticus "In case she comes asking, just say you didn't know I was out in the halls. I told her I was lost. She probably has her doubts, but can't prove anything. Why does she hate me?" Asked Atticus.

Lehana gave a slight frown, "I actually don't know why; I just think perhaps she may think that you aren't, "material," to be king and such."
She made finger quotes around the word material;

"Well, who said royalty had to be the way royalty is today?" he asked. "I don't understand the whole system myself, but that's besides the point. Oh well, saweta's words don't hurt me. After all the stuff I've been through, she hardly affects me" replied the young man.

Lehana touched his shoulder, "I'm sure she doesn't, you seem to be a strong man Atticus."
Just then Lehana could hear footsteps behind her and she spun to see none other than Saweta heading straight towards them.
"Hello your majesty," Saweta smiled and stopped in front of the queen, bowing before speaking, "I have something wonderful to tell you."
"What is it Saweta?"
"Well," she stopped when she saw or rather noticed Atticus, "Did you rest well Atticus?"
"Anyways," she continued, "I have sent out the messages to all the nations in reguards to the banquet. I have scheduled it for this Saturday, and it is a Monday now of course; that means the banquet is in exactly 5 days."

"Why Saweta, I rested well, knowing that someone as capable as you was roaming the halls. Once more, I can't that you enough for rescuing me in my time of need." replied Atticus and he smirked.

"That's good," Saweta said as she cleared her throat and her eyes fell upon the queen, "What do you think of the banquet on Saturday?"
"That's fine," Lehana replied, "We'll be ready; Atticus will be there as well."
"Fine," Saweta replied as she turned and walked away.

OOC: Sorry I havn't replied sooner.
To: Lehana
From: Tesk
I thank you for the invitation my lady, I would be most happy to attend.

"It's always so nice to see saweta" comented Atticus.

Lehana smirked, "Yeah, it's a thrill. This banquet is exactly 5 days from now, I'm sure you'll do fine at everything. Please remember all that I have told you, if you have questions or need help with anything just ask."

"Oh boy, I can't wait to be rubbing elbows with the 'elite' of society in a few days. It sure will be a clash of cultures and ideals for me. I'll try not to get in any arguments or anything." replied Atticus.

Saweta returned back to her office, just in time to see the message from Tesk.
"Perfect," Saweta said to herself, "He's a prince, much more suited for our queen than Atticus is."
Saweta sat down and wrote Tesk a letter:

From: Office of Queen Lehana
To: Prince Tesk

Your highness Prince Tesk,

We can not wait for your arival to our Nation of Tarayshia. The banquet is this Saturday, it is a Monday now.
We can't wait to see you,
The Office of queen Lehana

"I'm sorry," Lehana said, "However if it makes you feel better now's your chance to prove everyone wrong."

Your Royal Highness,
Our Minister Of Civil Protection Is a Worthy fit to your beauty and is my cousin. His name is Garnard Finch

To: The office of Queen Lehana
From: Tesk of Taralkea
Thank you, I shall be there, I will come sooner if you want.

Atticus thought for a moment "What do you mean?" he asked.

Lehana mused a moment before saying, "I'm sure some of my advisors see you as kind of well..."
She stopped then said, "Sortive low class, not wirthy of someone like me. I do not know where they get it from; I'm not like that, nither was my sister. Well, maybe she is a bit however she's not bad."

Atticus clenched his fist. He hated the class systems that exist in some countries. The whole way the 'upper classses' treat the 'lower classes disgusted him. Just being there was going against everything he fought and believed in. But, he could not direct his frustration towards Lehana. It wasn't her fault.

"I wonder who decided who is the upper class and who is the lower class. Some of the poorest people are the richest. And some of the richest are the poorest. That's my opinion." he replied.

Saweta's main duty for now was sitting in her office, loving all the replies that she was getting concerning her queen.
'Someone has to be better.'
Saweta thought as another message came in. After reading it, the advisor replied:

From: The office of queen Lehana
To: Garnard Finch

You are more than welcome at our banquet on Saturday evening, however could you please include some information about yourself? Such as height, age, looks, interests..etc?
Thank you,
Office of queen Lehana

Lehana sighed, "I really don't know. I'm really sorry about this; Atticus, I know you're going against everything you believe in. Why are you?"

"I'm not doing this for land, nor title, nor prestige. I'm doing this because I love you" he replied.

Lehana sighed before speaking, "I know you're doing this for love, however think about it. Really truly think about it; with marrying me you will get a title, and with that title comes responsibilities."

Atticus thought, "I don't have to be king. I could become the ambassador to Tarayshia for Kulikovo. How does that sound?" he replied

Lehana sighed, "I'm not saying yes, however I am not saying no. I just don't know Atticus."

Atticus held her "I think it would work. I wouldn't really be betraying my beliefs. Yes, it could work. I would just be your husband, not king." he replied.

Lehana sighed as she leaned against him, "I don't know, we'll see."

"Yes, we'll see. But, I still think it would work. It would also keep your advisors happy, because I wouldn't be king." he replied, holding her.

The queen sighed as she raised her head and kissed his cheek, "Some of my advisors do not want me to marry you at all."

''I know that, but what can they do? Other than advise you not to marry me?" Atticus replied, kissing her back. "I still don't understand why they would care, if I chose not to be king. Even if they didn't want me to marry you, what could theyn do?"

"Atticus, I don't know," Lehana replied getting slightly upset as she pulled away, "I just don't know. Yes, they can advise me not to marry you."

Atticus held her hand "I'm sorry if this is upsetting you" he said.

OOC: Sorry to interupt, but when is Saweta going to answer Tesks letter?

Lehana turned away, "I'm just going for a walk around the palace."

''Okay Lehana" he replied. Not knowing what to do next, he stood there.

From: Office of queen Lehana
To: Prince Tesk
Hello your highness,
You may come on the day of the banquet, in the morning. The banquet will be held in the evening. You will meet our queen Lehana at the banquet, you can come in the morning to get settled in.

The office of queen Lehana

Lehana began to walk away, not liking the situation she was in. She liked Atticus, and cared for him however she didn't love him. She had never said that she did, and here he was giving up everything for her.

'In all my life I've been independent, stubborn, strong willed. But when I'm with her, I fall to my knees.' he thought 'What is it abut her that does this to me?' he thought. he continued standing there, looking to the ground.

As Lehana's footsteps echoed around the halls of the palace, her mind began to drift back. All her life, the queen had never questioned her beliefs nor her rule as queen. When Jamila had left she had accepted it and gone on with her life. Atticus had faced many hardships in his life, fighting for what he believed in. However he was giving it all up for her and Lehana couldn't really figure out truly why. She felt bad, because she did not love him and yet he was willing to give up everything in order to be her husband.
He did not want to be called a king, and Lehana knew this. She was a queen, she needed someone that would be willing to become the king; for her, people, and nation.

Atticus shoved his hands in his pockets and leaned against the wall. The back of his head hitting the wall, slightly.

''I'm so confused" he said aloud, and gave a sigh

'What am I doing? I don't stand a chance. She wants a king. Those suitors would have no qualms about becoming king. Can't she understand?' he thought.

"Your majesty," it was her advisor Olina that walked up to her this time, "I think we need to start prepearing for the banquet."
"I guess you're right," Lehana replied as she turned and walked back the other way. The queen and her advisor walked past Atticus, "Hey Atticus, why are you standing there? Would you like to come with us?"

Atticus snapped out of his daze and replied "Sure"

OCC: Sorry that's not alot, I don't know what else to say

Lehana smiled, "Great, we're going to plan the banquet, maybe you could help us? Or, you could give us ideas."

"I-I wouldn't know anything about planning a banquet. If you were planning an invasion I'd be of better use. Besides, this wouldn't be some graduation party." replied Atticus. He honestly wasn't good with that kind of stuff.

"I could stand around and act like I know what I'm doing" he joked.

Lehana chuckled, "There's no one to impress; it's just me and Olina."

"That still doesn't change the fact that I'm horrible at this kind of thing." replied Atticus. "I could be planning this for a brick, and I'd still mess it up some how"

OCC: Bump

(OOC: I haven't been around much;busy with stuff such as looking for a job.)

IC:

The three of them arrived at Olina's office, the advisor opening them shutting the door for Atticus and Lehana to go through.
"Now," Lehana said as they all were seated, "I think we should have the banquet start at 5 o clock on this Saturday. That way dinner can be served at 6."
Olina was getting a pad out and writing down everything that the queen was saying;
"Atticus," Lehana asked, "What do you think? You can say anything even if you think it's stupid."

''I like cheesecake" he replied with a smirk "You said I could say anything. Well, I honestly don't know, an evening sounds fine"

OCC: Bump

"What kind do you like?"
Lehana asked, "We can have it made."
"Yes," Olina replied, "Lehana is right. Whatever you like we will make sure it's provided."

OOC-This is my first RPG, really so I hope I do this correctly.

To: Tarayshia
From: Zoroastrian Persia

Greetings! Zoroastrian Persia congratulates Your Majesty, Queen Lehana in the news that she will be getting married. Since she is looking for a suitor, we have one that may be acceptable to her.

Name: Darius Pahlavi
Age: 24
Height: 6'2
Interests: Reading, History, Culture, many other things

Darius can also speak Persian and other languages. Darius is also a kind-hearted person, as Your Majesty wishes of a suitor.

If any more info is needed, we can get it for you.

Zoroastrian Persia

"Yes," Lehana said as she smiled at Atticus. The queen jumped as she heard a beeping coming from Olina's computer.
"That means we have a message," Olina said as she stood from her chair and walked to the other side of the room to retrieve the message, "Here it is, would you like to read it?"
Olina asked, holding out the paper for Lehana to take. The queen felt bad that Atticus had to witness this, nevertheless she began to read.

To: Tarayshia
From: Zoroastrian Persia

Greetings! Zoroastrian Persia congratulates Your Majesty, Queen Lehana in the news that she will be getting married. Since she is looking for a suitor, we have one that may be acceptable to her.

Name: Darius Pahlavi
Age: 24
Height: 6'2
Interests: Reading, History, Culture, many other things

Darius can also speak Persian and other languages. Darius is also a kind-hearted person, as Your Majesty wishes of a suitor.

If any more info is needed, we can get it for you.

Zoroastrian Persia

"They do seem like a good nation," Lehana commented as she placed the letter on her lap, "I'll write them back; I have some questions."
"Yes, your majesty," Olina said as she quickly fetched a piece of paper and began to write back to the nation.

To: Darius Pahlavi of Zoroastrian Persia

Hello, I thank you for your letter. My nation of Tarayshia is having a banquet this Saturday and we would really like to see Mr. Pahlavi attend. However, we would like more information such as hair and eye color, his duties if any in your government, if no job in your government then what does he do? Any other information would be helpful.
Thank you for your interest,
Queen Lehana of the nation of Tarayshia

After the letter was sent, the queen sighed and looked at Atticus, "I'm sorry about that, you know the duties of a queen."

To: Tarayshia

Greetings from the land of Persia! We have recieved your letter and we will give you the info you have requested.

Eyes: Green
Hair: Straight, Medium, Brown
Darius is a composer of music. He is interested in music and has made some of his own pieces of music. This is his job in the nation of Zoroastrian Persia.

If anymore info is needed, we can get if for you.

From: The nation of Tarayshia
To: Persia

Hello, we thank you for your information on Darius. He is more than welcome to attend our banquet on this Saturday, it is a Monday right now.
Please respond with a yes or no,
The Nation of Tarayshia

Atticus found himself in an awkward position. He honestly was no good at these things and he didn't believe he should have any say in it.
"yes, I've learned alot in the past few days" he replied

To- Tarayshia


Darius will come to your banquet. Thank you for allowing him the oppurtunity to come to your event.


Zoroastrian Persia

Lehana was about to reply when a beeping sound was heard from the computer again. Olina picked up the message and the queen wrote her reply.

From: Tarayshia
To: Zoroastrian Persia

Hello,
We look forward to meeting Darius at our banquet. Room and board will be provided.
Queen Lehana of the nation of Tarayshia

After the letter was sent, the queen leaned back in her chair.
"Yes," Lehana began as she grinned, "Atticus has learned a lot in the past few days. Now, we can continue planning this banquet; and we will have cheese cake."
Lehana said as she chuckled;

(OOC: Everyone, I say that we do a time skip instead of doing the rp for the rest of this week in the rp. Since it was Monday at the time of the last letter, let's say that it is now Saturday, the day of the banquet. This means that you can bring your suitor to the party, and this goes for everyone reguardless if you sent a letter to my char or not.
So, the party begins! I'll let some people post first, I will set the scene very very soon..in fact, the scene should be after this post.

To be CONTINUED)

IC:


It was Saturday, the day of the banquet. Lehana was in her chambers, allowing her maids to fix her ebony hair and do her make-up. Lehana wore a backless black gown, her hair twisted up on top of her head with a few pieces falling down her neck. On her neck sat a diamond neckless, diamond earings were on her ears and black silk and lace gloves were on her hands that went up to her elbows. The gown clung to her body, the skirts swirling around her legs and the neckless resting between her breasts. The gown was made from the finest silk in Tarayshia, the lace, beads, diamonds were placed on the gown by hand. Her shoes gave her an extra 2 inches of height to her frame, and on top of her head sat her crown made from gold, crystal and various jewls. The crown was simple, and that was how Lehana liked it. Another brush of blush, another swipe of lipstick and Lehana was on her way down the staircase to the large banquet hall. She didn't know where Atticus was, she hoped that he was alright with getting ready. Lehana wasn't supposed to just enter the hall, she was to sit upon her throne that had been moved to the room for this event. Lehana entered, her shoes echoing along the floor as she climbed the steps to her throne and sat down; waiting for her guests. All her advisors would be at the banquet, some also keeping an eye out for a husband although none of them would speak of the matter until the queen had her pick of the suitors and chose one. Lehana's sister, Jamila was also atending along with her husband Eric.
All was set, rows of tables were ready and food along with drinks were all in place. A band was to provide constant music, anything that the guests would like to hear.
'This is it.'
Lehana thought as she sighed and folded her hands in her lap;
All was ready and the queen waited for everyone, including Atticus to show up at the party.

OOC-Are we allowed to send our suitors now?

Clarenece was flying in a helicopter from a aircraft carrier to the banquet. On the carrier he had been doing some secert work with the men aboard. Right now he was wearing a black tuxedo with black trousers, black socks, and black leather shoes. The UH-60 Blackhawk was starting to get close to the airfield, so it started to desend slowly. Once landing Clarence walked out to find a car waiting for him. He entered and it drove off to where the banquet was taking place. Once getting their he entered threw the door and intot he banquet hall. Clarence sat down at a table. Looking around he took off his glasses and waited.

(OOC: Yes, all may come to the banquet now. Guests can start coming now)

From where she stood by the queen's thrown, advisor Margo Price was surprised that the young man that had just come in did not see the queen.
"Well," Lehana whispered, "It is a big hall so perhaps he didn't scan everything."
Margo nodded, bowed at Lehana and began walking over towards the young man that was seated at a table.
"Excuse me," Margo began, "I am advisor Margo Price of the nation of Tarayshia. Might I ask who you are and your nation?"
Margo inquired, giving a smile to the gentleman;

OOC-I will send mine then. Thanks. I hope this is an ok post for sending my suitor.


Darius was in a airplane from a airport in his nation of residence. He was thinking about the banquet. At this time, he was wearing a formal outfit, with some addons. The airplane he was on was starting to get close to the airport of the Tarayshian capital, so it started to land carefully, as they did not want a crash. Once landing Darius came out and looked around before seeing that there was a limo waiting for him. He greeted the driver and went in the limo, which drove off to the banquet. Once getting at his destination, he opened the door and came into the banquet hall where he saw one of the suitors was already there. Darius sat down at another table. Looking around at his surroundings, he took out his gift for the Queen and inspected it before putting it away and waiting for the banquet to begin.

Atticus emerged, all dress up for the banquet, he saw all the suitors in their fancy royal clothings and their clean cuts. He sighed and took a seat. He never liked dressing up, it was uncomfortable.

'I wish I was still in the military. That way I'd get to wear my old officers uniform' he thought. He remembered how dashing he looked in his uniform.

(OOC: If you don't remember what Lehana is looking like right now, go read the post where she is getting ready for the banquet and such.)


IC:


As the suitors began to arive to the party, so did more of the queen's advisors. There was Saweta, Olina, Margo, Jeery and many others dressed in there best clothing.
"I think it's time for you to come and meet them," Saweta whispered to Lehana as she carefully stood in her gown and made her way off the thrown. She stepped lightly onto the floor, seeing Atticus as he had arived to the banquet. She sent an acouraging smile his way before walking slowly towards the suitors that were present thus far.
"Hello all of you," Lehana began as she bowed to all of them, "I am queen Lehana of the nation of Tarayshia. I thank all of you for taking the time to come to my banquet; you are welcome here and I do hope that you will enjoy yourselves."

Darius looked at the Queen and her advisors when Lehana came down from her throne. Darius stood up and said ''Greetings to you, Queen Lehana.'' Darius said this in the Persian language. Darius then sat back down and waited to see if the Queen was to make any announcements or anything. He was hoping to give the Queen his gift soon.

Atticus gave her a smile in return. He planned to sit there and let lehana meet the suitors. She spent enough time with him already, it was only fair to give the suitors a chance.

(OOC: Zoroastrian Persia, can you please put quotation marks around the things that your suitor says? Thanks..)


IC:


Lehana smiled at Darius as he spoke to her, "I'm sorry, I do not understand what you have said."

OOC-Sorry for that. I will remember to. Thanks for telling me.

Darius looked at the Queen and replied ''I am sorry, Your Majesty. I forgot to translate my greetings to you, from the language of my people.'' Darius took out a box and gave it to the Queen. ''It is a gift from me to you.'' he said, opening it. Inside was a necklace with a Faravahar (http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/80/Faravahar.png for a picture). The necklace was well made and decorated neatly. ''The thing you see on it is a Faravahar, a emblem from my nation, as you may see on my nation's flag. I can explain its meaning if you would like me to. I hope you like the gift I brought to you.'' Darius said, bowing respectfully.

Lehana reached out and took the box, lifting the lid from it.
"Thank you Darius," Lehana said, "This is a beautiful neckless."
Lehana placed the neckless back in the box, as her advisors looked on.
"I welcome you to my nation," Lehana said as she smiled.

Lehana reached out and took the box, lifting the lid from it.
"Thank you Darius," Lehana said, "This is a beautiful neckless."
Lehana placed the neckless back in the box, as her advisors looked on.
"I welcome you to my nation," Lehana said as she smiled.

''Thank you, Your Majesty and thank you for complimenting my gift to you. Remember, I can explain the Farvahar's meaning to you if you want me to.'' Darius said, bowing respectfully before sitting back down. ''Shall the banquet begin?'' Darius asked.

From where she stood by the queen's thrown, advisor Margo Price was surprised that the young man that had just come in did not see the queen.
"Well," Lehana whispered, "It is a big hall so perhaps he didn't scan everything."
Margo nodded, bowed at Lehana and began walking over towards the young man that was seated at a table.
"Excuse me," Margo began, "I am advisor Margo Price of the nation of Tarayshia. Might I ask who you are and your nation?"
Margo inquired, giving a smile to the gentleman;

"Oh sorry" Clarence put on his glasses and looked at Margo. Getting up he paused for a moment and said "I'm Clarence Potter from Canadstein. It's a pleasure to meet you." He got on one knee and kissed her hand. Then got back up. He gave a nod to Margo and sat down. Clarence looked at Queen Lehana. She was beautiful, he wondered how she was personally. Turning away to not stare he went back to waiting.

"Yes," Lehana said as she straightened, "It's time for the banquet to begin. Let us all socialize with one another and we will welcome anyone that comes to this party. All the food is just about ready, there are drinks provided; anything that you can possibly think of."

Atticus sat there, watching the high-class artistocratic nobles. He didn't really enjoy sitting amoungst them. At every turn he wanted to start a debate or argument. But, he held his tounge. He tapped his fingers off the table.

It was suddenly that the band began to play, and the queen had smiled at all of them, "I see that the music has started, and that my servants have brought out the food. All of you, feel free to help yourselves."

The band startled Atticus. It was quite loud, but the music was good.
'I wonder how lehana's doing' he thought 'I onder if she's found her prince charming'

Lehana gazed at her surroundings, no one yet had asked her to dance.
'Oh well, I can ask someone.'
The queen scanned her eyes over the suitors, seeing Atticus sitting at the table; she walked over towards him, "Atticus, are you hungry? Or, would you like something to drink, perhaps would you like to dance?"

Atticus smiled "It would be an honor to dance with you" he replied 'I'm sorry if I didn't ask before, I was miles away. I hope you have steel plates on your feet, because I'm not a very good dancer."

"I'm sure you dance fine," Lehana said as she took his hand and lead him out to the dance floor, "So far, no one has asked me yet."

"That's a shame, someone like you without anyone to dance with. Your the center of this banquet and the most beautiful woman here. perhaps the suitors are too busy being in love with themselves." he replied as they went on to the dance floor.

Lehana sighed, "I don't know, one of them did give me a gift. I do realize that some of them have come from far away and may be getting some food and drink."

"Perhaps. That food does look tasty. I might end up cleaning the whole place out before the night it through. But, I'll gobble all that food up with proper etiquette. You're going to have to give me some pointers" Atticus replied.

Lehana laughed, "No problem, you can sit with me. Although I know they'll want to sit with me as well."

Atticus smiled "Well, I guess you can still make this into gladitorial games. The winner gets to sit next to you." he joked.

Lehana smiled, "I'll think on that, but I don't think so."

''Okay, just a suggestion" he replied as they reached the floor "I'm on the dance floor, now what?" he asked.

Darius was interested by the band of the Queen and their music. Darius took some of the food and quietly ate it. He saw that Atticus and the Queen were going to dance so he would wait till they were done so he could ask if Lehana would like to dance with him. He got up and began to wonder around, admiring the scenery and architecture of Lehana's palace.

Lehana danced with Atticus for a bit before she said, "You dance just fine, at least I think you do. However, I'm feeling hungry and would like to get something to eat; you?"

'I'm suprised I didn't crush your feet, there's hope for me yet. Food sounds good, want me to get you something?" Atticus asked. He enjoyed dancing with her.

(OOC: I'm not feeling well at the moment, so I'll be back tomorrow. I'm going to post, then whoever comes in and post you can interact with one another. It'll be interesting to read in the morning!)

IC:

Lehana smiled as her and Atticus walked towards a table, at which sat the suitor that had given her the gift.
"No thank you Atticus," Lehana said as she sat down, "I'll have one of my servants get it for me."
Lehana turned in her seat and called over one of her maids. After giving the order to her servant, Lehana turned towards the front. When the servant returned with Lehana's food, she began to eat at her meal.

OCC: Hope you feel better

IC:

Atticus got his food and sat at the table. The food was delicious and smelled good. He wanted to tear into it but he remembered that he had to act proper, not on;ly for lehana's sake. But he was a representative of Kulikovo and had to act accordingly. But the food was good.

OCC: Bump

OCC:Bump

OCC: Bump

(OOC: I'm feeling much better..thanks to Kulikovo for keeping this going and for still having an interest in it.)

IC:
The queen gazed around at the suitors, knowing that Atticus must have been feeling uncomfortable however she noticing that he was doing fine. Lehana finished her plate and signaled one of the servants over, watching as the maid cleared her plates.
"May I take anyone's dishes?"
The maid asked as she waited and Lehana sipped at her wine; the queen noting that there weren't as many suitors as she had originally thought.

(OOC: Just curious;I wonder where everyone is? lol..)

OOC- I am still here. Just waiting to get back to it.

IC-''Miss, you may take my plate.'' Darius said respectfully, giving the maid the plate. Darius then went to Lehana and greeted her. ''Your Majesty, may I have this time to converse with you? By converse, I mean talk. I would like to get to know you better as a person.'' He sat down at her table and waited for a reply from Lehana, hoping she would accept having a conversation with him.

Lehana looked at Atticus, "Atticus, would you excuse me for a moment?"
Her gaze turned back to Darius, her eyes sweeping over him as she replied, "Of course Darius, would you like to move somewhere more private?"
The queen meant somewhere not infront of her suitors, however not unaccessable to them.
"We could go sit over there," Lehana pointed to a nearbye table; not so crowded.

Atticus looked at her, then Darius "No, not at all" he said. he grinded his teeth as they walked away, luckily they didn't see him do it.

OCC: tarayshia, I got a Godfather thread going on, want in? It's a really good thread.

Darius turned to the Queen and said ''Thank you, Your Majesty for accepting to talk to me, not that I thought you would not.'' Darius and the Queen went to the nearby table and Darius began. ''What would you like to talk about? I would like to know what you have in mind.'' Darius said to Lehana, he was trying to be respectful to her. ''If you have any questions to ask, I don't mind. I understand fully, besides I am sure you may have some already.'' Darius told her. Then he turned to a maid and asked if two drinks could be served, one for Lehana and one for himself.

Lehana nodded at the maid as she brought the drinks towards Darius and herself. Lehana took a sip and placed the glass onto the table as she said, "So, what is your country like? I do realize that is a broad question."

Darius took a sip from his glass and said ''My country is a new one, it is a nice country to live in.'' He used this to begin his story on his country. ''Your Majesty, if I may ask, can you tell me about yourself? I would like to know the Queen better than I do now.'' Darius asked respectfully. ''Your Majesty, thank you for inviting me to this banquet. You have done a great job in hosting it.'' Darius said before taking another sip from his glass.

Lehana took a sip of her drink, "Well, I have one older sister named Jamila; she should be coming with her husband Eric. Both of my parents are dead, my father died when I was 16 and my mother when I was 18; that is when I enherted the throne. Only women may rule this nation; we need husbands to help us produce an heir and to help us rule as well. I have lived here all my life, I have done some traveling as well; I have been queen for 6 years now. Do you have any questions for me? I also want to thank you on your complaments."

''My condolences to the loss of your parents, Your Majesty. I thank you for telling me about yourself and your family, you have had a good life despite some issues.'' Darius said kindly. ''Your Majesty, if I may ask, perhaps you like to dance?'' Darius asked, going to help the Queen up from her chair.

Lehana felt bad for Atticus when Darius had asked her to dance; however she smiled at Darius as she extended her hand, "Yes Darius, thank you for asking."
She let him help her up and they walked out onto the dance floor, the band just happening to play a slow song and the queen blushed.

Darius looked at the Queen and then they danced, Darius leading in dances like the tango and others. ''Lehana, you are a skilled dancer. You must have learned from another skilled dancer.'' Darius said as they danced. ''Tarayshia is a well kept nation, be proud you are its sovereign Queen.'' Darius said to her. They danced for some time, dancing and enjoying the time together.

Lehana smiled as she danced, "I've been dancing as a child, I've always loved doing it."
The queen cared for Atticus; however she knew his stance on becoming king;or, in rather being called a king.
"Darius," Lehana began, "Let's sit down."
She began to walk towards the table that they had been sitting at before;

Atticus sat there, observing all the people in the hall. he saw Lehana and Darius dancing and he tapped his fingers off the table 'Stop it Atticus. Jealousy is a weakness' He ralized that his chances were sliming by the minute. These men, these noblemen wouldn't think twice about becoming a king. But, he couldn't bring himself to do it, he was too proud, too devoted to his beliefs.

''I have danced since my youth as well.'' Darius said, leading the Queen to the table and helping her sit down. ''Is there something you want to talk to me about?'' Darius asked her politely. Darius called for a light plate of food and drink for himself and Lehana and waited for Lehana's reply.

"Yes," Lehana began as she picked up a finger sandwitch and took a bite; then she replied after she swallowed, "Are you willing to become a king? You will not have as much power as I do, and I have already explained that the royal bloodline is past from mother to daughter and such, however are you willing to become a king, to be called a king as a form of title?"
As Lehana talked, 2 more people entered the hall; they were Lehana's older sister Jamila and her husband Eric. Jamila, oddly enough had looked nothing like Lehana, she having blond hair and blue eyes. She wore a blue dress that went to her knees, and her blond hair went to her back. Eric wore an army uniform, the couple walking with ease as they aproached the table where Atticus sat. Jamila pulled up a chair and sighed, motioning for Eric to do the same.

Atticus saw the two approach and sit down. He turned to them
"Greetings, I'm Atticus Konovski, you must be Jamilia, and you must be Eric. A pleasure to meet you. Lehana speaks fondly of you" he said.

"How do you know who we are?"
Jamila said, "When, we don't know you."

"I have been talking with Lehana. She's really something" Atticus replied.

"I realize that," Jamila said, "However, how did you know it was us?"
"That's a bit odd," Eric said.
Jamila looked at Atticus, "Are you psychic?"

"I wish I was psychic. It would make life so much easier. But yet, I am not. I saw a photo of you two." Atticus replied, perhaps he shouldn't have said anything. He felt like he made them uncomfortable. But Atticus didn't want to seem rude by not talking to them.

"Ahhh yes," Jamila replied, "It makes sence now."

"She tells me you turned down the throne. How does it feel not to have the pressures of politics on your shoulders?" he asked. "I myself am Vice-Minister of Kulikovo and I can't wait till my term expires next year. So that I may return to a normal life."

(OOC: I'm still researching your godfather thread..i haven't forgotten it. Just a lot of catching up to do it's a bit overwhelming to be honest.)

IC:

Jamila laughed, "I love it, I'm married to a great man who is a captain in his nation's army. I play with our four year old son who is at home with our nanny; and, I get to come see my sister. I guess you could say that I can have my cake and eat it to."

Atticus laughed "That's good. You live a blessed life. But, it seems the burden is falling quite heavily on your sister. All this pressure for her to get married and such." he said.

OCC: No problem. I'm quite suprised by how it's taking off.

Jamila sighed, "I know, however that's the kind of person she is. She could've said no however she didn't want to leave the throne to the person that would have gotten it if Lehana would've stepped down. So she stayed, to continue our family line and for the better of our nation."

(OOC; I'm trying to hurry my reading of it..it's taking me a couple days with real life and such. I hope I can find somewhere to fit in..)

"She certainly has quite a few suitors ro choose from. All of them, I'm sure would have no qualms with becoming king. I, on the other hand can't bring myself to think of it. It goes against all that I have fought for. I come from a socialist nation that fought a brutal revolution to overthrow a facist regime. I was a combatant in it. I fought hard to see that no man was greater than another, based solely on wether or not they had quote 'superior blood'. She, somehow can't seem to understand my predicament." Atticus said.

OCC: With not having a heavy work load at school and no job I find myself with a bit too much time.

(OOC: I'm not in school, however I'm looking for a job..which i'm getting nowhere but oh well.)

IC:
"Well Atticus," Jamila said, "Her advisors really want her to get married; if not the person that wants the throne could take it and that wouldn't be good for anyone. I believe you may have met this person; advisor Saweta."

"Oh, saweta. She's my best friend. I cherish the time we spend. She belittling me, I making a smart comment in return. I do enjoy how she looks down upon me as being 'unworthy'. Lehana seems to listen to her advisors, more than her heart." Atticus replied.

OCC: I had a job during the summer, but I didn't want to work while being in school. Too much stress, and not enough sleep is all that brings.

"I know," Jamila sighed, "But it's tradition hundreds of years of it; you can't expect someone to just give that up."

"You did, and look how happy you are, having listened to what your heart tells you. Instead of an advisor" Atticus replied in turn.

"I did do that," Jamila said, "Because I had the choice and a damn good sister; do you not see? There is no one left; the next person is Saweta and who wants that? Our nation would go to hell in a picnic basket. No one is left Atticus."

''I never said Lehana should leave her throne. I'm the one who was willing to give it all up. And I agree, Saweta would not be a good replacement. I'm sorry if I'm confusing you. It makes sense to me when I say it" Atticus replied.

"Hmmm," Jamila said, "I don't know what to say."

(OOC: I'm done for the night..I'll be back!)

OCC: Okay, sorry if my last post didn't make much sense. I got a little crossed. I don't really have the attention span to go back and read past posts.

Darius took a finger sandwich and joked ''If these are finger sandwiches, could we be eating human fingers?'' Then he took a bite. ''Your Majesty, I have no problems with being a King or being called one. I have no problems with Mother-Daughter sucession and all that.'' Darius explained. He had no problems at all of being a Tarayshian King. Darius took a sip of his glass and said ''Your Majesty, do you think I could meet your advisors? To get to know the leaders of Tarayshia a bit more.'' As he waited for Lehana to reply, he pondered what it would be like to be a King (he did not want to seize power or anything).

OOC-Sorry for late reply, some things had came up.

OCC: Bump

Lehana laughed, "No one has ever asked to meet my advisors. Yes Darius, they are here, if you mingle around I'm sure they'll want to talk with you. Some of there names are Olina, Saweta and Margo; they may introduce themselves to you so if you hear those names it's them."
Lehana didn't mention the other 7 in her queendom, since they weren't as likely to talk to her suitors.

''May you take me to them, that I may introduce myself to them, Your Majesty?'' Darius asked. ''Your Majesty, I have NO problems about being King, I have wondered on what it would be like to be one, all I request is that I be called by a Persian title- the title of Shah which I believe is a shorter form of Shâhanshâh.'' Darius told Lehana. ''Now, let's go and meet your advisors.'' Darius said, offering to help the Queen up from her seat.

What does the word Shâhanshâh mean?"
Lehana asked as she took his hand and stood up; her eyes scanning the room. When she saw her sister talking with Atticus she said, "I'd like for you to meet my sister and her husband."
Lehana said as she started towards them.

Atticus continued talking with Jamila and Eric when he saw Lehana and Darius walking towards them. He saw them holding hands, but he tried not to think anything of it.

''Shâhanshâh means King of Kings in Persian, I believe. In that case, I would be Shah or King of Tarayshia or the King of Kings of Tarayshia (Shâhanshâh Tarayshia).'' Darius explained. He then said ''I would be honored to meet the siblings of Your Majesty.'' He went to where Atticus was and greeted Eric and Jamila. ''Peace be with you.'' he said in one of his languages before translating. ''You must be the Queen's sister and her husband. Nice to meet you both.'' Darius said.

Lehana smiled as she aproached her sister, "Jamila, it's so great to see you! How are you Eric?"
"I'm good, you?"
"She's doing fine with all the men flocking to be around her," Jamila said as she laughed.
"Shut up," Lehana said as she to laughed at her sister's teasing.
"I see that you've met Atticus," Lehana began, "This another suitor, his name is Darius; however I believe that he has introduced himself."
"It is nice to meet you as well," Jamila said as she stuck out her hand, "Where are you from in order to speak your language? How many languages do you know?"

Darius looked at Jamila and said ''I know many languages. Listen.'' Darius coughed a little and then spoke. ''I will state some of the historical monarchs of Persia in another language, if I can remember.

Deioces- Daiaukku
Cyaxares I- Ukshatar
Achaemenes- Hakamanish
Teispes- Chishpish
Cyrus I
Ariaramenes
Phraortes- Kashtaritu-Khshathrita
Cyaxares II- Khuvakhshatra
Astyages
Cambyses I
Cyrus II The Great
Arsames
Cambyses II
Smerdis- Bardiya
Darius I- Daryavaush
Xerxes I
Artaxerxes I Longimanus
Sogdianus
Xerxes II
Darius II
Artaxerxes II Mnemon
Artaxerxes III Ochos
Arses
Darius III''

Darius then said ''I know many languages, from the dialects of the Persian tongue, to the language of the Greeks. I know many languages of many kinds.''

Then he sat down next to them and said ''Jamila, you should be proud for having such a respectable, caring, intelligent sister such as Your Majesty.'' Then he stopped and waited for a reply from one of them.

Atticus sat there as Darius wowed them with his languages and history of monarchs 'I can speak Russian' He thought. In his mind this gave him one up but in reality it didn't mean anything. Atticus felt dispare 'This guy is what Lehana needs and is looking for. I'm nothing like him. At least I'm not a suck-up' he continued to think.

Jamila cleared her throat, "Well, that certainly is very impressive."
"Yes," Lehana smiled as she nodded.
"How many languages do you speak Atticus?"
Jamila asked, a pleasant smile on her face. Lehana sat down, staring around at the other suitors.
'Well, I've goten to spend some time with Darius, I wonder where everyone else is that I can spend time with?'
Lehana mused as she sat in her chair.

Atticus broke out of thought. "Our national language is Russian but I also speak English" he said.

OCC: I don't actually know any Russian, don't make me say any.

Darius thanked Jamila for the complement and then went to Lehana. ''Your Majesty, if I may ask, perhaps you could show me around this palace of yours? Or you could introduce me to your advisors, perhaps?'' Darius asked the Queen.

(OOC: Yes, I demand you speak Russian..I'm the queen! Lol; no really, you speak Russian just like I speak Japanese..i know nothing don't worry about it)

IC:

"I see," Jamila said as Eric sipped at his drink.
"So Atticus, you say that you were in the army? I'm the captain of the Nocklong army, which is the nation that Jamila and I live in. Have you ever thought of returning to the military?"
As Eric spoke, Lehana turned towards Darius, "I'll go get some of my main advisors, will you excuse me?"
Lehana stood and said, "You all just keep talking, I'll be right back."
Then she turned and walked from the group of people.

''Your Majesty, I excuse you. Besides, I do want to know everyone better, I suppose.'' Darius told Lehana. Darius listened to the conversation that Jamila, Eric and Atticus were having as he waited for Lehana and the advisors.

"Well, unoffically at first. Our nation was once ruled by an iron-fisted facist regime. I found myself thrusted into the revolution. It lasted for two years. Towards the end I recieved a commission in the People's Army, after all that timw fighting. My rank was Master Lieutenant. I recieved the Worker's Medal for Bravery. And yes, I do wish I was back in the army. It's alot less complicated in my opinion than the political arena. Give me an army uniform over a suit and tie any day" Atticus said. memories from the war began to surface again.