NationStates Jolt Archive

TO: Nations of the World
FROM: Prince Jovan

Hello,

I, Jovan of the Secular Kingdom of Maraque am in search of a wife. I do not require very much in a wife, only that she is open minded, generous, and tolerant. Anyone that fits this very minimal criteria is welcome to the Kingdom to meet me.

Yours truly,
Prince Jovan, Secular Kingdom of Maraque

Greetings from Japan! Empress Theodora would like to know if Anna, her sister could meet Prince Jovan. She is open minded, generous, and tolerant as Jovan wishes of a possible bride.

TO: Empress Theodora
FROM: Prince Jovan

Empress,

I would be delighted to meet your sister, she sounds like a very nice woman, and arrangements to enter the Kingdom can be made immediately.

Yours truly,
Prince Jovan, Secular Kingdom of Maraque

To: Prince Jovan

I thank you for your reply. My sister would like to meet you in Maraque. Should she come to your nation now to meet you? Arrangements should be met so that we don't forget to do so. Thank you for complimenting my sisters. She says you are a nice man too.

Sincerly,
Empress Theodora

TO: Empress Theodora
FROM: Prince Jovan

Empress,

She may come as soon as she likes. There is no rush. Maraque International Airport is just a 15 minute drive from the Palace.

Upon arrival, a limousine will be there to bring her to the Palace.

Anna was the sister of Empress Theodora. She packed her things and said bye to her family and to the Empress and her family. She got on a plane marked with a Byzantine ensign and waited to be in Maraque. She was very excited, getting a chance to meet Jovan. She thanked Theodora that she recommended her and that.

When she landed, she saw the city, admiring things like its architecture. She saw the limo and the driver. ''Hello there. I'm Anna from Japan.'' Anna said politely.

"It's a pleasure to meet you," the driver said, as he made a slight bow and opened the door for her. "We'll be there in no time at all. Did you enjoy your flight?"

''I had an excellent flight, thank you.'' Anna said, going in the limo. ''I hope to get along well with Prince Jovan. He seems like a nice person.'' Anna said. She looked out the window, seeing the city and what it was like.

The limousine took off slowly from the airport, followed by a small convoy of security detail courtasy of the Kingdom.

The limousine made it's way through the busy streets of Maraque, a modern city with touches of 17th century English architecture.

The limousine made it to the Palace in no time. The gates opened and the limousine drove down a path lined with scores of bushes with purple flowers flowing off it's branches in the slight wind. The enormous Palace was finally in view, a breathtaking building that looks to be in the middle of nowhere, but happens to be right in the middle of a bustling city of over 100 million people.

''What a nice well kept city.'' Anna said, taking pictures. ''The palace is a huge one but it looks nice too.'' she said, stepping out of the limo. She had decided to greet Jovan in Greek and/or Japanese and then translate it. Anna could not wait to see him.

Jovan watched as the limousine approached. He was very anxious, yet nerveous, to meet Anna. As she exited the limousine, Jovan descended the stairway down towards her, butterflies in his stomach as he looked at the beautiful woman below.

"Hello. It is my utmost pleasure to meet you," Jovan said, as he bowed in respect.

''It is my pleasure to meet you too.'' Anna bowed in respect also but she greeted him in Byzantine Greek and translated it.

Anna was dressed in Byzantine clothing with a Three Bar Cross necklace around her neck.

''Jovan, what shall we do first in Maraque? Perhaps you could show me around? It would be nice to see your nation.'' Anna said.

"Perhaps we could sit inside the residence, and talk a little of our interests? Give you a little time to rest, if that's all right with you. Then I can take you on a tour around the city before dinner?" Said Jovan.

''That would be great. I would like a talk, perhaps to know each other better.'' Anna said, going inside. ''I come from Byzantine Japan. My nation was founded by a brother of the last Byzantine Emperor, I believe.'' Anna said.

"Maraque was founded in 1489. Little is known about who founded it, but it is believed my family is part of the same bloodline."

"What are your hobbies?"

''My nation was founded some time after the Fall of Constantinople on Tuesday May 29, 1453.'' Anna said.

''My hobbies include reading, learning, writing, art, architecture and other things.'' Anna said.

"I enjoy most of those things as well. I'm an avid reader, and I appreciate a good architectural design."

"Would you like to take a stroll downtown near the seaside villages? The scenery is beautiful."

''We have those things in common.'' Anna said. ''A walk through there would be good. I would like to see the beautiful scenery.'' Anna said to Jovan.

"Very well, this way then," Jovan said as he led the way.

After they left the Palace grounds, they walked half a block or so before turning the corner towards the beach. As they walk down the small sidewalk lined with old storefronts and cafe's, a few passerby noticed the Prince and his guest, but like normal they just greeted him and went on their way.

As they made their way down towards the beach, they paused at an intersection waiting to cross, enjoying the beautiful day. Jovan pointed to his left; "That large tower over there is one of the oldest structures in the Kingdom. It was once a lighthouse, but it partially fell from an earthquake and the remains have been preserved... it's rather beautiful for such a ruin."

They were able to cross, and eventually made it down to the beach. "Isn't the water beautiful?" Jovan said, as he gestured towards the water which was an odd shade of purple and blue.

Bump. Anyone else is welcome to respond.

Anna followed Jovan and enjoyed the walk with him. She listened to the story of the lighthouse and the earthquake.

When they got to the beach, Anna laid on the ground and said ''The water is beautiful indeed.''

''Jovan, why don't we watch the sunset?'' Anna suggested.

"That would be delightful." Jovan said, as he lay on the ground. "The weather is better today than it's been all year. This is very fortunate."

"What is the culture and such like in your nation? I'd love to hear about it."

''It would be nice to see the sun in its setting. It would be truly delightful.'' Anna said.

''There is much culture in my nation. For example, Orthodox Christianity (along with others) is a state religion, including some others. The Three Bar Cross on my necklace is of the Orthodox Tradition. I can explain it if you want. Also, the leader of my nation is a Caesar. I am the sister of his wife, Empress Theodora. The Caesars have reigned over an empire for years, Jovan.'' She then showed him her pocket book. ''This is the Alexiad by Anna Comnena. It is a book that looks into Byzantium.'' Anna said.

She spent some time telling Jovan of her people's culture.

"Your culture is one of the most interesting I've heard. The culture in Maraque is rather different than most, in the sense that the majority of our population doesn't have a formal religion, but respects highly of those that do. Approximately 1% of our population is Christian, while 10% is Muslim, and 3% are Jewish.

Everyone respects one anothers religion and it is not an uncommon sight to see churches, mosques, and temples side by side in the same city and neighborhood.

Sometimes our people get out of hand however, because in the past a man was severely beaten by random passerby for allegedly mocking a Jewish man. These random citizens were so offended by this man, that they took it upon themselves to make him feel ashamed for what he did."

The sun began to set as Jovan finished speaking of the diversity and history of the Kingdom. The sky was a beautiful turqoise, purple, blue and red as the sun disappeared beneath the sea.

"Perhaps we should get going back to the Palace. My parents would probably like to meet you, and dinner will be served soon, as well."

Anna listened to Jovan tell his story of his nation. ''If I could meet your parents, it would be an honor.'' Anna said to Jovan, getting up from the ground.

She walked with Jovan to the palace, while opening conversation with him.

''I hope to try some good Maraquean food.'' Anna remarked.

Jovan and Anna reached the Palace. They walked up the giant staircase to the grand hall of the Palace. Inside they were greeted by a circular marble staircase, with a large chandelier in the center, with double-doors below it. Directly as you enter, there are two archways in opposite directions. One leads to the living quarters while the other leads to the Presidential and Government facilities.

"This way." Jovan said, as he walked towards the door under the chandelier. "My parents are waiting in the Great Room."

The double-doors opened, and they entered a long hallway with portraits of former leaders of the nation. They walked down the hallway and entered another door, inside was Jovan's father waiting.

"Anna, this is my father, King Stephen."

The King bowed, saying "nice to meet you" in his native Maraquen, which Jovan translated for Anna.

Anna bowed respectfully to the King. ''Your Majesty, your son is a very nice person. You have raised him well.''

Then she looked at the paintings and said ''What shall we do? Perhaps a talk before dinner?''

"Thank you," the King said in broken English, as he left.

"Yes, of course." said Jovan as he gestured towards the plush couch beside them.

"What would you like to talk about?"

''I was going to ask you that.'' Anna said. ''Perhaps I could introduce myself more to your father?'' Anna suggested.

"Most certainly. I shall see if he is available."

-----------
After a brief absence, Jovan again entered with his father.

"I'm sorry for my short welcome. I had to attend to something, but that's taken care of." Jovan's father said through Jovan's translation.

''Your Majesty, I don't think I've introduced myself. I am Anna, from Byzantine Japan.'' Anna said, giving a respectful bow.

"It's a pleasure." The King said.

"Have you been enjoying your stay this far?"

''I am enjoying my stay here quite well.'' Anna said. ''Would you like to talk about something?'' she asked.

"What are your views on elective monarchies? Where the general public votes for one of the monarchs children to ascend the throne when the ruling monarch dies?"

Elective monarchies are ok for me. It is like a singular Democracy. Is that the system in Maraque?'' Anna said.

''My nation is an absolute monarchy. I am trying to remember who is the sucessor to the current Caesar.'' Anna stated.

"I'm not quite sure what our system of government is. You see, we have a democratically elected President but essentially has limits as everything has to be approved by me. His name is Darius A. Shulze, and he's in his last six-year term." the King said.

Jovan chimes in; "Many believe we're a constitutional monarchy, but the kingdom doesn't have a formal constitution drafted, just a general set of laws that the people have to abide by. It's worked out well for us. Perhaps you would like to know more about our Charter of Laws?"

-------

A man walks in; "dinner will be ready in five minutes," the man said. "Oh Anna, this is my personal assistant, Jaeger," said Jovan.

''Thanks for the info on your nation. It is interesting to hear.'' Anna said to Jovan and Stephen. ''I would like to learn more about your Charter of Laws.'' said Anna.

''Hello, Jaeger. I am Anna from Byzantine Japan.'' Anna said, greeting him.

"Here are a few sections of the Charter of Laws:"

Jovan takes the actual document out of a glass case within a locked cell behind one of the paintings, and reads it;

"Article II," Jovan begins; "Civil Rights."

"Section. I

Every citizen of Maraque, regardless of race, gender, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, class, physical ability, appearance, or mental capacity has the absolute right to marry anyone.

Section. II

Under no circumstances can anyone be denied a marriage license unless the spouses in question are unable to sign a marriage license. A spouse may however, grant someone else to sign for them, as long as a judge, or someone else of legal authority is witness."

Jovan skips a few, and continues;

"Section. IV

A religious organization has the absolute right to deny anyone use of their establishment for the purpose of conducting a marriage ceremony.

Section. V

All public establishments must, under the law, provide ways for the physically disabled to enter. All public establishments are required to have atleast two wheelchair accessible ramps, every establishment also must provide either automatic doors, or doors that swing open by the push of a botton. Also, all public establishments must have handicapped accessible bathrooms if there are bathrooms for the general public in said establishment.

In addition, all public establishments must have handicapped parking spaces available, atleast the first five spaces closest to the building must be handicapped-permitted only.

Section. VI

You can not be denied the right to vote based upon your race, nationality, gender, religion, sexual orientation, class, physical ability, appearance, or mental capacity."

These are just a few parts of the Charter. There are plenty more, but dinner is about to be served.

Anna listened to the Charter and said ''Those are good precepts, Jovan. I am sure they are well liked?''

When they went to dinner, Anna said ''Maraquean food looks good but I am sure it tastes great!''

"Just last month a poll suggested that 93% of the people approve of the Charter." Jovan said, as he pull a chair for Anna.

"My father will be with us shortly, for now, I'd like to introduce you to my siblings..."

Jovan introduces them one by one; "This is my brother Deric, my sister Siv, and my younger brother Krister."

They all bowed in respect and sat down at the table.

Anna greeted Jovan's siblings and said ''I am Anna from Byzantine Japan.'' She sat down and said ''Thank you, Jovan.''

''Do you have a mother, Jovan? Just curious.'' Anna said, thinking that either he did or that she may have passed away or something.

She was also anxious to know everyone better as well.

"I've never met my biological mother before. I was adopted. I'm originally from the United States." Jovan said.

(OOC: All his siblings were adopted from foreign countries as well.)

"Yes," Stephen said, "I've never been married, so I adopted children... I am in a relationship however."

Just then, servers started walking through the double doors that led to the kitchen with plates of traditional Maraquen food. [OOC: You can make up whatever is on the plate.]

''That is interesting, Jovan. My siblings and I came from parents.'' Anna said.

She grabbed the baklava, sachertorte, pizza and other foods and began eating.

''You are in a relationship? How is that going for you?'' Anna asked Stephen.

Jovan started eating, listening in on the coversation between Anna and his father.

"It couldn't be better." Stephen said. "We are celebrating our 51st anniversary together this year. Marriage has never been a huge thing with us."

''That's sweet. The Father bless your relationship.'' Anna said. ''Jovan, perhaps we will celebrate that one day.'' Anna said.

"Yes, perhaps we will."

"Anna." Prince Deric says; "if I may ask, what is your title? Or is Anna acceptable?"

"Father," says Princess Siv; "how is the situation with the Eonopolitans going?"

"Well Siv, I hear war has broke out between them and another nation. I haven't gotten the latest intelligence report."

"That's unfortunate!" exclaimed Prince Krister. "But I suppose you're just going to stay neutral in the situation, as we've always done. War never solves anything I say."

"Krister, you'd make a great King one day." Stephen said, with smirks of envy by his siblings, particularly Siv who hopes to become the first Queen.

"Anna, if I may ask, what are your plans? Will you be heading back home, or staying? The guest wing has been prepared just in case you are," said Jovan.

Anna looked at Deric and said ''I am the sister of the Empress of the Byzantines, but I don't remember if I have a title so just call me Anna.''

''Jovan, I am staying here in Maraque, if I am able to do so.'' Anna said to Jovan.

Anna looked at Krister and said ''You know, Mahatma Gandhi said ''An eye for an eye makes the whole world blind.'' Also, there is a story on Anabaptists I've read on. Would any of you like to hear it?''

"Very well then, Anna it is," said Deric.

"Of course you can stay. It'd be nice." Jovan said.

Krister then replies; "Gandhi, very smart man... yes I'd be absolutely delighted to hear more," Krister said, as he looked around the table at everyone who shook their heads in agreement.

Anna nodded and said ''There was an Anabaptist named Dirk Willems. Dirk Willems (?? – May 16, 1569) was a martyred Anabaptist who is most famous for his successful escape and subsequent reimprisonment after rescuing his pursuer, who had fallen through thin ice while chasing him. Willems was born in Asperen, Netherlands, and was rebaptized as a young man. This action, plus his continued devotion to his new faith and the rebaptism of several other people in his home, led to his condemnation by the church of Holland. After his harrowing escape and recapture, he was burned at the stake near his hometown on 16 May 1569. Today, he is one of the most celebrated anabaptist martyrs, and a historical drama, Dirk's Exodus, written by James C. Juhnke, is based on his life.'' ''The story is that he rescued the man chasing him and then was burned at the stake.'' Anna said.

"What a fascinating story!" The King exclaimed.

"Yes indeed father it was quite interesting." Krister said.

"Siv," says Deric "we must get going."

"Oh right," said Siv. "We're going to the grand opening of a new school in Hythoria (OOC: a province of Maraque), to encourage children to stay in school... and a little publicity for us wouldn't hurt either."

Krister and Jovan roll their eyes slightly.

"Perhaps I'll show you to your sleeping quarters, Anna?" Jovan said, as Krister, Stephen, Siv, and Deric left.

''It sure is an interesting story. It is amazing as well.'' Anna said.

When everyone left, Anna said ''That would be nice if you could show me my room.'' to Jovan. As they went, Anna showed Jovan her pocket book which was a copy of the Alexiad.

Jovan walked with Anna up the circular staircase and down a lavish carpeted hall towards an elevator. The elevetor was just as lavish as the Palace, with a carpet that Jovan explained was made by one of the former Kings wives of the Kingdom, and gold hand rails along the sides, with shimmering diamonds inside the top of the elevator.

The elevator opened into a foyer which was connected to the guest room. "This way," Jovan said, as he led her into the bedroom. The bedroom was painted a beautiful light tone of green, with many lighter tones to set it off nicely. The King sized bed in the center against the wall, with a desk and leather armchair on one side, and a small night stand on the other.

"The bathroom is in this door right here." Jovan pointed out; "it has both a bath and shower just in case you prefer one over the other."

"You also have a belcany that has the most beautiful view of the river."

Anna followed Jovan and was amazed at the sight of her guest room. ''This room looks expensive, Jovan.'' Anna said. After a while, Anna said ''I'm going to take a shower. Perhaps we can do something after I'm done.''

She went and has a shower, thinking of stuff to do with Jovan in her visit to Maraque.

"I do agree, this entire Palace is quite excessive, but do not be alarmed; my father used his own personal funds to construct this. The only form of tax in the Kingdom is sales tax, but none of it is used to pay for the Royal Family. It all goes back into the country, funding the universal healthcare system, the free education, etc. The President isn't even given a salary."

Jovan temporarily leaves to give Anna privacy. He returns once she allows him to, and he sits at the edge of the bed.

"Is there anything that is on your mind that you would like to ask?"

''That's benevolent of your father, using his own money like that.'' Anna said.

''Perhaps we can see your nation's nightlife?'' Anna said to Jovan as she had her shower. After her shower, she came out and said ''Let's go see the nightlife of Maraque, Jovan.''

Anna sat next to him, trying to open conversation.

"Excellent idea. There is a path on the property that leads into a forest with many unique and very beautiful wildlife... kind and gentle ones of course, if you'd like to see?"

''That would be great! Let's go see the forests of Maraque.'' Anna said. ''Mind if we hold hands?'' Anna asked, nervous at asking this.

"Oh certainly!"

Jovan led Anna back downstairs, and to the rear of the Palace. It was dark, but many lanterns lit the pathway towards the forest. The cobblestone pathway was lined with white roses that looked beautiful in the dim light.

They walked down the cobblestone path together holding hands, getting closer and closer to the forest. "The wildlife within these forests are wonderful little critters."

They came to the entrance of the forest, and Jovan took out two very small and compact flashlights. "Here you take one, " Jovan said as he handed it to her free hand.

They both walked slowly and peacefully into the forests and soon came upon a small squirrel-like animal near a tree. It had a mysterious shiny black coat, that shimmered a navy blue in the light. The tail was completely black, and he had bird feathers down his back. "Oh here we are!" Jovan said, pointing towards the animal. "This here is my bud. He's never been afraid of humans before, and he loves to climb on my shoulder." Jovan said.

He put his hands out towards the animal, and it climbed on his arm, making a small noise as if it was greeting the both of them. "Isn't he cute, Anna?"

''It is cute indeed, Jovan.'' Anna smiled, watching it go around Jovan. She enjoyed her time with Jovan and was fascinated by his bud which was on his shoulder.

''Mind if I hold him or her?'' Anna said, wanting to get to know more about the bud of Jovan.

When the creature made a greeting noise, Anna greeted it back.

"Yes, of course." Jovan said.

Jovan placed the animal in Anna's hands and watched as the animals eyes grew big with excitement.

"He likes you, it seems." Jovan said.

The animal climbed on Anna's shoulder and started to playfully touch her hair.

"It's a complete mystery as to why it has feathers on it's back, but I find it quite fascinating. There are hundreds of very fascinating things in this forest."

Anna nodded in agreement and played with the creature, giggling and laughing. ''He's nice, Jovan. He seems to like my hair.'' Anna said, having a fun time.

Jovan and Anna continued being entertained with the little animal as they walked through the forest. The animal seemed to be very much attached to Anna, as he just stayed on her shoulder playing with her hair and they walked along.

Jovan and Anna came upon a two way path and they stopped. Jovan pointed out the giant tree down the path to their right which was bigger than some commercial complexes. "This is said to be the oldest tree in the Kingdom, as you can tell from it's massive size. The leaves at the very top are sometimes five feet in length. When I was a little boy I used to climb this tree." Jovan said with a little laugh.

They continued down the left path, along with Jovan's buddy, and came upon another animal.

"Ah here's another great one." Jovan said as he walked towards the white horse-like animal with a golden maine. "The story behind this one is that supposedly a horse and a deer mated and eventually it became this. It's amazingly beautiful for such an odd pair."

Jovan gently touched the animal and it neighed softly with satisfaction.

Anna kept playing with the creature, enjoying her time with it. ''It does like me a lot, Jovan. It especially likes my hair.'' Anna said. ''I climbed trees when I was a child too, Jovan. It was fun, my childhood was greatly fun.'' Anna said.

Anna saw the horse and said ''I am a good horse rider, I've won awards for it. Mind if I ride him?''

"Oh yes, go ahead. He loves people."

Just then, Jovan helped Anna onto the horse, and watched as she ride him... along with the squirrel still on her shoulder.

Anna rode the horse, enjoying the ride. She turned her head to the creature and said ''Having a nice ride?'' She rode for some time, having fun riding.

Jovan eventually found another horse, and rode it along side Anna enjoying the wonderfully silent and warm night. The pair rode the horses all the way through the forests and to the palace, where they got off.

"Did you enjoy your first day in Maraque, Anna?" Jovan asked, as he helped her off the horse. Jovan gently took the squirrel off Anna's shoulder and placed it on the ground, where it wondered back into the woods, along with the horses.

Jovan walked with Anna back towards the guest wing, talking to her about various subjects.

"Good night Anna," Jovan said, as the day finally ended, and he treated to a nearby room to rest for the next day.

Anna had fun riding with Jovan. When she was in her room, she changed into her night wear and decided to read her book at the desk. Then she went to sleep, wondering what fruits the next day would bear.

As Jovan awoke the next morning, he took a shower and got dressed. He was thinking about what he would do next with Anna... he really felt something with her, but was afraid to admit it to her.

Jovan went to Anna's door and knocked, hoping he wasn't waking her.

Anna opened the door and rubbed her eyes. She yawned and said ''Hello, Jovan. I guess it's time to wake up now, right?'' She then got dressed and said ''What is planned for today?''

"Breakfast is waiting downstairs. Afterwards maybe we could take a boat ride down by Darkaan (a nearby province) and we could take a stroll in the park there?" Jovan asked.

Anna smiled and went downstairs for breakfast. ''That's sounds great. I can't wait for the boat ride and other things planned.'' Anna said.

Jovan walked with Anna downstairs towards the Breakfast Nook. His father, Siv, Deric, and Krister were already there. They all said hello to Anna. Jovan pulled a seat for Anna and they both sat down.

"Hello Anna," Stephen said "have a good sleep?"

Servers started walking in with plates of fruits and other delights just suitable for breakfast.

''I did have a good sleep. Thank you for asking.'' Anna said nicely. She smiled at Jovan and sat down, waiting for breakfast.

Breakfast began, and the King and Krister were in a big discussion about politics, like they always are.

Jovan couldn't stop thinking about how wonderful of a woman Anna was. He felt a little crazy for feeling in such a way so soon, but he couldn't help his feelings.

"What are you two going to do today, Jovan?" said Siv.

"We're going to take a boat to Darkaan, and go to the park there."

"Sounds like fun." Deric replied.

As soon as breakfast ended, Jovan and Anna left and Jovan led them to a garage with many expensive and exclusive automobiles. "You don't mind if I drive us to the harbor, do you?"

''Sure, why not. A drive would be nice.'' Anna said while checking out the cars.

"Excellent" Jovan exclaimed. "This way."

Jovan led Anna through the garage full of cars such as Ferrari, Maserati, Mercedes-Benz, and Aston Martin, just to name a few.

Jovan input a number on a keypad in the wall, and a small safe opened with a variety of car keys. He picked one and walked with Anna to the vehicle.

They walked towards the '06 Ferrari 599 GTB and Jovan opened the passenger side door for Anna. Jovan then got in himself and started the engine with the exhilarating sound of a Ferrari V12. "I love Italian cars," Jovan said half-saying it to himself.

They drove off the palace property and into the bustling street of the city. Scores of people noticed the Prince in his car and made friendly gestures. "Security has never been a concern, believe it or not... if anything was to happen, random passerby would come to our aide." Jovan said, as they drove about 35 minutes to the harbor.

Jovan helped Anna out of the car, as a valet took the car and parked it in a locked garage. Jovan and Anna walked towards the water, noticing it's beauty.

Jovan helped Anna into the two-person boat and started across the water... Darkaan in sight ahead.

bump.

''I can't wait to see Darkaan.'' Anna said while admiring the scenery from the boat. She held on to Jovan while looking around, waving to the nearby people. ''All the stuff we have done together, it has all been excellent.'' Anna said.

"I'm glad you've been having a good time so far." Jovan said.

Just then, a huge whale jumped out of the water in the near distance. "Oh yeah, there are whales in this water, by the way." Jovan said while laughing slightly.

Jovan enjoyed his time with Anna. He had never felt this way about any woman he's been with, and really felt she was the one... only he didn't know if Anna felt the same way.

Jovan held on to Anna gently while the boat sailed slowly towards Darkaan. The water shimmering in the early morning sunlight.

"Perhaps some day I could visit your nation, Anna?"

''What a great whale!'' Anna exclaimed. ''I'm sure one day you can visit my nation.'' Anna said. When they got to Darkaan, Anna said ''Here we are, let's have fun!''

Jovan helped Anna out of the boat and they started to walk into the park. There were children playing with each other, people having picnics, and many other interesting people just enjoying the day.

"I arranged to have a hot air balloon to take us around the park landscape. Would you like to do that?"

''A hot air balloon would be great! I was on them when I was a child.'' Anna said.

"Excellent. Right this way then. The view from up high is great, plus you'll be able to see all the ancient ruins."

Jovan led Anna towards the hot air balloon awaiting a few hundred feet down the park. They passed by people of all ages, including a gay couple who shook Jovans hand for his support in a bill that would require that all companies offer spousal benefits to same-sex couples.

"Sometimes it surprises me deeply that I'm such a well-known public figure, but can walk around as if I'm just no one. No monarch in the nations history has left palace grounds with security, it just was never needed."

They reached the balloon and both got in. The balloon started to slowly rise higher and higher into the sky.

''I am neutral on homosexuality, I don't really have that big of a stance.'' Anna said while greeting the same-sex couple. ''Your nation's leaders have been so supported, the security is no longer needed.'' Anna remarked. ''The view up here is great. I can see anything, including ancient ruins.'' Anna stated.

"We're going to go over the house the founding monarch was born in. Darkaan is one of the many places that has the most history in the Kingdom. The province of Curona was where it began however. It's to the far west of here."

The balloon flew over the small town and house the monarch lived in. It was very small and cozy, a house built in the early 1400's in the middle of modern-day architecture.

The balloon flew over many different parts of the town below, including the lake of Nemesis, Darkaan town hall, and the tallest building in the Kingdom the Imperial Tower.

''You know a lot of Maraquean history.'' Anna said. ''What a nice view, Jovan. Thanks so much for taking me up here.'' Anna said before embracing him.

"It's been my pleasure. Now... I want to tell you something... my sister Siv is gay. I hope telling you this won't hinder our relationship... because I also think you're one of, if not the, most amazing women I've ever met. I've done more with you than I've done with anyone else, and I just feel so comfortible with you. I know it might sound strange you only having been here a day and a few hours, but I needed to get all of this off my chest."

Just then, the balloon started to go back to the ground, right in the spot they took off.

''Siv is a lesbian? That is ok with me. I respect her nonetheless. Also, I understand what you said. I've become comfortable with you too. You are one of the most amazing men I've met. Thank you for opening yourself up.'' Anna said before giving him a small kiss.

"I'm glad you're understanding. I was hesitant to say anything as anyone would be, as the subject of homosexuality is a sensitive thing these days."

The balloon touched down and Jovan and Anna exited.

"It's almost noon. Would you like to go to lunch? There's a nice restaurant nearby."

Maraque is a champion of the rights of man.'' Anna said. ''The restaurant would be nice. Let's go there. I am hungry anyway.'' Anna stated.

OOC-I re edited my post, that was a mistake. Can we continue or not? Sorry if I offended you or anything.

OOC: You didn't offend me. :D

"All right, lets go."

Jovan and Anna continued through the park, enjoying the beautiful sights and weather. They reached the restaurant, and Jovan opened the door for Anna.

The hostess at the podium turned tomatoe red when she saw the Prince. "Oh my! Oh my god!" She exclaimed. "i-i-i-i-it's s-s-s-s-such a pleasure to m-m-m-m-meet you, your majesty!"

Jovan smiled and shook the womans hand as she seated them. "She must be new. I frequent this restaurant many times and I've never seen her before. It always brightens my day to see someone so excited to see me."

The waiter came and took their orders...

OOC-Thanks, it was a mistake, that post I made.

Anna nodded and went with Jovan. ''She seems very excited if I may say!'' Anna said in amazement. ''Many people are always excited when they see the Royal Princes, etc.'' Anna remarked. ''I will have some Maraquean food today. Also, do you have any non-alcoholic drinks? I don't really drink.'' Anna said to the waiter.

The waiter replied; "Under law we're only allowed to serve alcohol after 9pm. Other beverages we have are water with your choice of lemon, peach, orange, or raspberry, we also have sweetened/unsweetened ice tea, various hot teas, soft drinks... pretty much anything." The waiter said as he took down their meal order.

"I'll have mango tea if it's available," said Jovan.

''I will have grape soda.'' Anna said. ''With some Maraquean food of course.'' Anna stated.

"The food here is excellent. You'll love it," Jovan noted. This was by far his favorite place to eat, with it's wide variety of food and beverage.

"My siblings and my father are visiting Finland so they won't be back to the Palace until tomorrow evening, so we'll have the place to ourselves."

''I am sure it will be excellent. I am sure I will like it. Also, we have the place to ourselves? Let's get wild! I'm only kidding.'' Anna said.

Several minutes later, the food came.

"That was quick." Jovan thought. They began eating, and talking throughout the entire meal. Many people who noticed the Prince only waved and whispered, trying not to interrupt his and Anna's lunch. They went absolutely wild when a famous Maraquen actress came in though.

They finished their meals and Jovan left a $730SKD tip.

As they went outside, a black Maybach 62 limousine pulled up to the curb to take them back to the harbor. "We've been walking all day, so I had the hostess call for a limousine to pick us up."

bump.