NationStates Jolt Archive

Beausoleil International Airport, Northwest Mephras

"Why don't you take a few weeks off?"

Those words, spoken three days ago by her mother had led Lihua to today, as she sat in the first class section of the Mephrasian jumbo jet. She thumbed slowly through the drink menu as soft rock music flowed gently through the earphones covering her ears. In the seat next to her, a young man gabbed quickly into his cellphone, explaining to the person on the other line that Lihua would be out of the country for a while. Jon Bedora, Lihua’s assistant, had taken it upon himself to cancel all of her appointments for the next three weeks, which, for a lady of her stature, was no simple task. He had been her “minder’ since she left the family estate for university, and after these past few years, he was used to her various “crises” that needed resolution. It was a busy job, but fairly interesting, and it certainly paid well.

Suddenly a bing echoed through the cabin followed by a pleasant female voice. ”Welcome to MephrasAir Flight 581 from Beausoliel to Lamoni. We have been cleared for takeoff and shall be departing shortly. Once we are up in the sky, our attendants shall be around to take any orders and fulfill your requests. Once again, thank you for flying MephrasAir and enjoy the flight.” Lihua glanced out the window to take one last look at the airport as she pondered what Lamoni would be like. She had never been to Atlantian Oceania, however she had heard it was a very exciting place. As a Mian, and cousin to the Empress, she had decided to leave the country for her vacation to escape all of the Mephrasian press. They weren’t usually a problem at the estate, although occasional paparazzi had wandered onto their land in the past. At school, she generally wasn’t bothered as the campus was rather closed, and other students from prestigious families sent their children there.

As the plane began to taxi down the runway, Lihua folded the menu and placed it in the folder on the backseat. She tried her best to relax as she closed her eyes tightly. No matter how many times she traveled by plane, she always became slightly nervous as she heard the purring engines growing ever louder. Even with all the safety features that had been placed in the plane, she always knew there was a slight chance of error, which could result in disaster. As the jet rocketed towards the end of the runway, it rose into the sky as it began along its journey toward the distant land of Lamoni. With the plane safely in the air, Lihua let her mind drift towards the white sand beaches and clear blue waters of the resort where she would soon be relaxing.

With the end of her university year a week ago, she wasn't quite sure what would happen next. Yet now, all those thoughts faded away as images of the excitement of the unknown future danced in her head. She looked over to Jon, who was still occupied with the phone, and chuckled slightly to herself.

"Maybe I should give him a day off too."

------
Several Hours later, Lamonian Coast

Lihua stood in the open air atrium of the resort as Jon stood at the reception desk, speaking briskly with the hotel manager. He grasped three bags awkwardly in each hand as he waited for porters to take them over to her luxury bungalow. While some girls at her school had recommended the resort to her, she, always a skeptic, waited to judge until she was there. And she had to admit that the resort was quite pleasant and appeared well kept. Maids scurried to and fro, while porters, except for her own, seemed to be moving luggage all around the place.

Jon approached her from the desk with a somewhat annoyed look on his face. "Well, they finally got our reservation sorted out. Suddenly two porters approached and removed the mass of luggage from Jon's arms. "Finally," he sighed as the great weight was lifted from his shoulders. "Well, what would you like to do first? The bungalow will not be ready for another couple of hours."

Lihua pulled her sunglasses down from the top of her head and winked. "Well of course, we must check out the beach, and see if it is 'up to standard.'" As they both chuckled, a gentle breeze glided through the space of the lobby, beckoning them towards the ocean, where countless others had already begun to relax.

The Myakkan Revolution had really made Prince Gaspard into an emotionless and stern young man although there was still room for fun and adventure within him. He had decided to flee to Lamoni during the Revolution and set up a government in exile there since he was his father's heir and recognized by all Myakkan monarchists as Emperor Gaspard XX. From the Red Rose Manor, he directed the Government in Exile. On some occassions, however, he would take a break from politics and explore Lamoni. One day, he decided to visit a local beach with an assistant who usually helped him with the daily routine. Gaspard XX had often visited the beaches of Myakka when he was a wee little lad. His assistant, Esther, had served as the personal secretary to his beloved father and was dressed in a simple business suit while Gaspard XX changed into his swimsuit which left his entire upper body, a clear cut sixpack, fully open for viewing. Esther decided to change into her own swimsuit when Gaspard convinced her to join the fun. As she set up camp for herself and the titular Emperor, Gaspard XX was busy staring at a young woman he noticed in the distance. She looked very different from all the women he had seen before in Myakka since she had darker skin and she looked strikingly attractive to him. Just looking at her really made him intrigued and interested in talking to her. Gaspard calmly walked towards the young woman and greeted her with a smile. "Greetings, my lady. Are you a foreign tourist like myself? My name is Gaspard. A pleasure to meet you."

Gaspard bowed while Esther giggled a little before noticing Jon. She wondered if he'd be interested in her so as to create a sidestory in Gaspard's story of courting the mysterious woman. Esther never really had an interest in love but it did not mean she was opposed to finding someone. She simply adjusted herself on the towel, laid down, and began to relax. She really had an amazing figure and never ceased to maintain it through constant self control and the occassional exercises. As she relaxed, Gaspard talked to the mysterious woman.

"I must say that the beaches of Lamoni are quite well kept. It is a sign that the Lamonian people care about their environment."

As Lihua took in her first views of the Lamoni coast, she couldn't help but be swept up in the beauty of the landscape. Before her, a smooth sheet of pure white sand stretched towards the crystal clear waters of the ocean. The sun hit the sand in such a way that it sparkled like thousands of tiny gemstones. Large striped umbrellas stood guard over various vacationers taking in the waves and rays. She could not help but be somewhat taken away by the splendid sight.

However, seconds later she was startled out of her trance as a deep voice came from her left. Lihua jumped slightly as she remembered where she was. She turned quickly to see a smiling young man. She detected a slight accent in his voice, although she couldn't place the nation he was from. For a woman who tried to keep a reserved image, she couldn't help but giggle internally as she looked at this Gaspard. He was quite attractive, although she was not the type to simply fall for someone based on looks. Well, it is vacation. She smiled in return, and answered. "Why yes, I too am a foreign tourist. My name is Lihua. Might I ask from which country you come?" It seemed he had noticed her amazement at the sight of the Lamonian shore as well. "It is quite beautiful. I'm not extremely used to the ocean, as my home lies inland, and I must say, they do seem to care for their nation."

As this conversation continued, Jon stood back slightly. He had tensed up as he noticed the foreigner approach. While he always wanted the best for Lihua, he was extremely leery of men who seemed "interested" in her. It almost always led to trouble of some sort, annoyance in the least and heartbreak in the worst case. Furthermore, he had to explain all that occurred to the family, and needless to say, they were more protective of Lihua than he. No matter what she did, he would receive most of the blame. For now, he would give them some privacy and let them talk, but if things started to turn sour, he would not hesitate to pull the plug.

Gaspard had been studying Lihua and felt that she was ever so attractive but knew that she could be a girl who valued more than mere looks. He made it up in his mind to fervently court her as any good gentleman would. "I am Prince Gaspard of the Myakkan Empire, mi'lady, although I'm really here for my own safety since the Communists overthrew my father's regime. Yet, I still manage here."

Gaspard chuckled. "I hope, Lihua, that you won't mind if we talk a little amidst the beautiful Lamonian shore which pales in comparison to yourself. What are your interests? Where do you come from?"

While Gaspard courted the lovely Lihua, Esther was busy relaxing with the occassional glance at Jon to make sure he did not lay any malevolent hands upon her liege. She may have looked frail and innocent but she could easily defend the man she was sworn to serve. Eventually she walked into the cold water and began to swim around while contemplating her survival of the Fall of Marianopolis which still echoed in her mind. The artillery, the tanks, the gunfire....they were still fresh in her mind. Eventually, though, she shrugged them off and began looking at Jon and the others.

Gaspard looked at Lihua and smiled. "I must say that though I'm here in exile, I rather do enjoy being in Lamoni. When all is said and done back in Myakka, I'll come back here. And I see my lovely assistant is keeping an eye on me...."

Gaspard pointed to Esther and smiled. "That's Esther, my assistant and secretary to my beloved father. She served during the Myakkan Revolution alongside him and had to stay in the Emperor's Bunker until she was smuggled out of the ruined and destroyed city of Marianopolis which was our capital. Many of the people who work for me fled from the Revolution and only some served in the Fall of Marianopolis. I was here by then with my siblings.....but Esther, for example, stayed to serve my father until she was smuggled out."

Myakka...

She searched her mind for information on the country. She had heard of the nation recently on some of the major news programs, and she recalled the images of tanks moving through the land and scenes of hardship and devestation. She could not believe that this charming man was able to hold his composure after all of the hardship that no doubt tormented his mind. She could hardly imagine the pain that he felt. More surprising to her was his title. Prince? She had heard of the various factions that were jockeying for power in the state, yet wasn't sure of the current positions of the Monarchists. Somewhat embarrassed by her lack of knowledge, she decided to not press to deeply onto those wounds which no doubt plagued his heart.

"I am so sorry to hear of your nation's and no doubt your family's plight. Hopefully everything will turn out for the best." In this situation, those were the only words that she could put together, but she hoped he understood her sincerity. "You seem confident in an eventual return to peace, let us both hope for that."

As Esther was introduced, she could not help but admire the strength of the young woman, seemingly of her same age. While Mephras had dealt with it's share of problems, there was never something as serious as the complete fall of the capital, and she had never needed to be smuggled out of the country. She was no doubt a brave and invaluable servant of the royal family. She smiled brightly and replied. "I am extremely pleased to meet you both. I am Lihua Mian of the Empire of Mephras. I decided to come to Lamoni completely on a whim, to take a break from my studies back home. No doubt my story is less interesting than your own. My interests are varied, although I tend to be a fairly quiet person who enjoys reading, although I'm also up for adventure every once and a while. How about yourself, I mean, besides plotting your return to your homeland?"

"I am so sorry to hear of your nation's and no doubt your family's plight. Hopefully everything will turn out for the best." In this situation, those were the only words that she could put together, but she hoped he understood her sincerity. "You seem confident in an eventual return to peace, let us both hope for that."

"I am sure that peace will one day be restored. Currently I'm the titular Emperor de jure. My siblings are all here in Lamoni but my parents are trapped in Myakka and I fear that they may be injured or simply dead. I'm hopeful that things will get back on track. Perhaps, one day, I'll return to Myakka as its Emperor."

As Esther was introduced, she could not help but admire the strength of the young woman, seemingly of her same age. While Mephras had dealt with it's share of problems, there was never something as serious as the complete fall of the capital, and she had never needed to be smuggled out of the country. She was no doubt a brave and invaluable servant of the royal family. She smiled brightly and replied. [I]"I am extremely pleased to meet you both. I am Lihua Mian of the Empire of Mephras. I decided to come to Lamoni completely on a whim, to take a break from my studies back home. No doubt my story is less interesting than your own. My interests are varied, although I tend to be a fairly quiet person who enjoys reading, although I'm also up for adventure every once and a while. How about yourself, I mean, besides plotting your return to your homeland?"

Esther smiled. "A pleasure to meet you, Miss Mian. I am Esther Lunse. My royal friend was correct in telling you that I survived the Fall of Marianopolis, our beloved capital and that I once worked as his father's trustworthy secretary. I can still remember the Fall well and have plenty of stories which I could tell you if you are willing to listen. I've been through plenty of adventures myself, actually, although they were not really what I had felt like doing. They were just forced upon me."

Gaspard smiled. "When I am not thinking about returning to my homeland, I often read and go for walks around the Red Rose Manor which my host nation gave me to use as the headquarters of my Government in Exile. My father had an immense library filled with hundreds of books and we smuggled them ALL to Lamoni. If you'd like, Lihua, you could come and visit the Library sometime. I also have a variety of other interests such as geography, politics and simply living life to the fullest and in my own way. When I need reports and the like, I turn to Esther, who serves as my secretary. She is really a hard worker."

Esther then began to speak. "One of my interests happens to be nature. I really do like to listen to the birds chirping every morning. It's charmed me since I was a wee little girl. At times I go on walks with Gaspard here through the trail near our manor while the birds chirp away. I'm his personal assistant and secretary, as he said earlier, so I'm just doing for him what I did for his father before the Fall."

Esther then looked at Jon. "Sir, perhaps you have some interests you'd be willing to tell us about? I'm Esther Lunse, as you might have heard, what is your name?" She smiled at him, showing off her pearl white teeth, and then looked back at Lihua. "Myakka is a nice place, Miss Mian, although recently it's been made into a Hell on Earth. I really miss Myakka to be honest and hopefully I'll return one day."

She looked back at Jon and smiled. She wanted to talk to him and get to learn about the life of a fellow assistant. It would be nice, she felt, to just exchange knowledge and learn about how he operated. After all, assistants had to stick together.

Jon was taken slightly aback by the direct address from Esther, as he was used to simply being an observer in the relations of Lihua, yet it was certainly a welcome change from being invisible. "My name is Jon Bedora, personal assistant to Miss Mian. I've been with her for quite a few years. In my free time I enjoy playing guitar and writing." He was somewhat embarrassed as his resume was certainly not equal to hers but he certainly admired her courage and experience. After all, running after a schoolgirl and a possible emperor trying to regain his land were certainly different tasks. He was sad to see such a talented and he had to admit, attractive woman going through such a distress. "It must be somewhat hard to be in such a beautiful location yet having to cope with such inner sadness. Yet I'm sure one day you shall return to the Myakka you love."

Lihua was certainly not prepared for what she had just heard. I go away on vacation, and I walk into a prince who is trying to regain the throne of his nation. So much for a boring holiday. Nevertheless, she was quite interesting in this Gaspard, and his story. To be honest, sitting on the beach all day didn't really appeal to her. "So you have a palace near here. I'd love to visit, as I'm sure the accommodations are quite better than our own. Although I wouldn't want to impose to much, as I'm sure that you are quite busy with your work." Lihua was quite amazed at the skill shown by the Myakkans in extracting all of the books from the library, and inferred that these books must be of extreme cultural importance to both the family and the nation.

She paused slightly before she continued. "I'm very sorry to hear about the plight of your father. Are their efforts underway to rescue him? I'm sure the situation is extremely dangerous, but you seem to have had success in rescue operations before. Has Lamoni provided military support as well? I'm not sure of Mephras's current stance on the issue, although I'm sure they are concerned of such stability in a fellow monarchy." She knew that Mephras was a busy nation, although possibly she could have a conference with her cousin to "encourage" action. But for now, she would simply continue to listen, learn, and enjoy herself. "I would love to visit your house and library sometime. As of now, my schedule is quite free."

Jon was taken slightly aback by the direct address from Esther, as he was used to simply being an observer in the relations of Lihua, yet it was certainly a welcome change from being invisible. "My name is Jon Bedora, personal assistant to Miss Mian. I've been with her for quite a few years. In my free time I enjoy playing guitar and writing." He was somewhat embarrassed as his resume was certainly not equal to hers but he certainly admired her courage and experience. After all, running after a schoolgirl and a possible emperor trying to regain his land were certainly different tasks. He was sad to see such a talented and he had to admit, attractive woman going through such a distress. "It must be somewhat hard to be in such a beautiful location yet having to cope with such inner sadness. Yet I'm sure one day you shall return to the Myakka you love."

Esther smiled. "What kind of stuff do you write, Mr. Bedora? Do you write your own songs for the guitar or do you entertain people with your adaptations of other people's songs? I've been a secretary myself for several years now and I don't think I'll want a career change. When I'm not working, I often do whatever makes me feel good; whether it be writing, reading, or listening to the sounds of nature."

Lihua was certainly not prepared for what she had just heard. I go away on vacation, and I walk into a prince who is trying to regain the throne of his nation. So much for a boring holiday. Nevertheless, she was quite interesting in this Gaspard, and his story. To be honest, sitting on the beach all day didn't really appeal to her. "So you have a palace near here. I'd love to visit, as I'm sure the accommodations are quite better than our own. Although I wouldn't want to impose to much, as I'm sure that you are quite busy with your work." Lihua was quite amazed at the skill shown by the Myakkans in extracting all of the books from the library, and inferred that these books must be of extreme cultural importance to both the family and the nation.

"You could visit now if you want to, Lihua. The doors of the Red Rose Manor would be flung open for you and Mr. Bedora and you will be more than able to take a look at the books of the Imperial Library. My father was an avid book collector, a bibliophile, and I did not really want his massive collection to go to waste, that is, probably burned in some great fire at the hands of the Communists. So, if you want to come visit, just get changed and we'll take you there."

She paused slightly before she continued. "I'm very sorry to hear about the plight of your father. Are their efforts underway to rescue him? I'm sure the situation is extremely dangerous, but you seem to have had success in rescue operations before. Has Lamoni provided military support as well? I'm not sure of Mephras's current stance on the issue, although I'm sure they are concerned of such stability in a fellow monarchy." She knew that Mephras was a busy nation, although possibly she could have a conference with her cousin to "encourage" action. But for now, she would simply continue to listen, learn, and enjoy herself. "I would love to visit your house and library sometime. As of now, my schedule is quite free."[/QUOTE]

"Lamoni has provided us with plenty of military support as well as their nation for asylum for ourselves and many of the refugees. I believe that my father and mother may be lost to Death's cold hands but I do not know for sure. I think I can take you, yes, escort you to the Red Rose Manor. Come with me...."

OOC: Going to fast forward here a bit.

The Red Rose Manor looked like a modest enough place for the Myakkan Government in Exile to be based with all of its ministers and secretaries working to the bone within its walls. Stern Imperial Guards saluted Gaspard as he walked into the manor with the rest of his group and immediately he took Lihua straight to the Imperial Library where some workers were busy making sure all the books were in their proper places. "This, Lihua, is the Imperial Library!"

Gaspard smiled as he began to show Lihua around. "We have books of every kind from books of philosophy to classic erotica. My father collected all sorts of books during his reign as the Emperor of Myakka and he was quite proud of his achievements. He gave Esther here one of his books, a book of poetry, as a gift."

Esther smiled and pulled out the book that she recieved. "Here it is. It's a book of poems written by various Myakkan poets. I do read it from time to time even if it keeps reminding me about the Fall of Marianopolis and my final days in the Emperor's service before he sent me away for my own sake, my own safety."

As the group reached the section of books clearly marked as philosophical books, Gaspard could not help but keep looking at Lihua. She was the first non white woman he'd ever seen in person and he felt very attracted to her as time went on. It was surprising, yes, but he decided to just try and restrain it. Esther, on the other hand, did look at Jon once or twice but did not really feel attracted to him. Eventually the group got separated in the massive corridors of books and Gaspard was all alone with Lihua. Of course, he was not the kind of man to take advantage of this through the medium of force. "Lihua, tell me more about yourself. There must be more to you than what you told me. What is life like in Mephras for you? Do you know anyone famous there?"

Gaspard smiled. "I think my siblings are still out exploring the Lamonian nation. I only have two sisters and one brother and I take care of them here along with Governess Nadine whose tutelage I was once under. She really helped us all during the civil war with her network of message and people smuggling."

Esther smiled. "What kind of stuff do you write, Mr. Bedora? Do you write your own songs for the guitar or do you entertain people with your adaptations of other people's songs? I've been a secretary myself for several years now and I don't think I'll want a career change. When I'm not working, I often do whatever makes me feel good; whether it be writing, reading, or listening to the sounds of nature."

"I generally write short stories and poetry. I've attempted a song or two, although the results weren't exactly good." He chuckled slightly, remembering his first band and the resulting disaster. "For now I'm quite happy playing other people's songs, although maybe one day I'll write a hit. I must say I agree with your life philosophy. It is good to find a job which you enjoy, and then in one's free time. I must be interesting, working for someone in such a high position, no?"

"You could visit now if you want to, Lihua. The doors of the Red Rose Manor would be flung open for you and Mr. Bedora and you will be more than able to take a look at the books of the Imperial Library. My father was an avid book collector, a bibliophile, and I did not really want his massive collection to go to waste, that is, probably burned in some great fire at the hands of the Communists. So, if you want to come visit, just get changed and we'll take you there."

"Lamoni has provided us with plenty of military support as well as their nation for asylum for ourselves and many of the refugees. I believe that my father and mother may be lost to Death's cold hands but I do not know for sure. I think I can take you, yes, escort you to the Red Rose Manor. Come with me...."

As Gaspard continued to speak, Lihua became more and more interested in both him and his story. "So your nation has been taken by a group of Communists?" While Lihua had lead a mostly charmed life, the main threat to her position and her family were the communists. Mephras had languished under a communist system for several years, which had left her family and the nation near destruction. Her tone turned slightly darker as she clenched her fist. "Communists are in the best case foolish idealists and in the worst case violent autocrats who wish only to enslave or leech off the hardworking people of the nation, while at the same time, tricking them out of their labor. They and their ilk must be stopped at every turn, and their dangerous ideology stopped." She was embarrassed to have become so bothered, but communism often sent her over the edge. "I'm sorry for the outburst," she said as she smiled politely.

The Red Rose Manor looked like a modest enough place for the Myakkan Government in Exile to be based with all of its ministers and secretaries working to the bone within its walls. Stern Imperial Guards saluted Gaspard as he walked into the manor with the rest of his group and immediately he took Lihua straight to the Imperial Library where some workers were busy making sure all the books were in their proper places. "This, Lihua, is the Imperial Library!"

Gaspard smiled as he began to show Lihua around. "We have books of every kind from books of philosophy to classic erotica. My father collected all sorts of books during his reign as the Emperor of Myakka and he was quite proud of his achievements. He gave Esther here one of his books, a book of poetry, as a gift."

Esther smiled and pulled out the book that she recieved. "Here it is. It's a book of poems written by various Myakkan poets. I do read it from time to time even if it keeps reminding me about the Fall of Marianopolis and my final days in the Emperor's service before he sent me away for my own sake, my own safety."

As the group reached the section of books clearly marked as philosophical books, Gaspard could not help but keep looking at Lihua. She was the first non white woman he'd ever seen in person and he felt very attracted to her as time went on. It was surprising, yes, but he decided to just try and restrain it. Esther, on the other hand, did look at Jon once or twice but did not really feel attracted to him. Eventually the group got separated in the massive corridors of books and Gaspard was all alone with Lihua. Of course, he was not the kind of man to take advantage of this through the medium of force. "Lihua, tell me more about yourself. There must be more to you than what you told me. What is life like in Mephras for you? Do you know anyone famous there?"

Gaspard smiled. "I think my siblings are still out exploring the Lamonian nation. I only have two sisters and one brother and I take care of them here along with Governess Nadine whose tutelage I was once under. She really helped us all during the civil war with her network of message and people smuggling."

As the car pulled up to the Red Rose manor, she was taken in by the beauty of both the building and it's surroundings. While in size, it was only slightly larger than her own family's estate, the well manicured lands, along with the gently rolling fields and garden only accentuated the beauty of the building. She was surprised at the sheer number of people moving around the building, only to remember that people who intended to rule an entire nation had congregated here in an attempt to make their dreams a reality.

As she proceeding into foyer, she nodded politely to the various people coming and going. The manor was furnished in a much different way than her own, as desks and computers sat in many of the rooms, much more suited for business than a private life. She guessed that private quarters existed on the upper floors, but also realized that operating in such a crisis most likely meant that people were moving around at all hours.

She could definitely tell that Gaspard had natural leadership qualities as he led her through the house, stopping to show her every detail of importance, making sure she understood clearly. When they finally entered the library, she stepped back in shock. She had never seen a library of this scale, especially in a private house. Elegantly carved wooden bookshelves soared to the ceiling, sitting next to floor to ceiling windows, providing nice, natural light in which to read. As Gaspard took them further through this labyrinth of books, the conversation continued. As he asked whether she knew anyone famous in Mephras, she couldn't help but smile. "Well, I visit often with my cousin, who is the Empress, I guess you could say she's pretty well known in our country. As you could imagine, I live a quite comfortable life in Mephras. I currently am studying at the Imperial University in Euphova, although I also spend time at my family's estate in the east of the country. it is no doubt a nice life, but it can be stressful sometimes."

"I generally write short stories and poetry. I've attempted a song or two, although the results weren't exactly good."[/I] He chuckled slightly, remembering his first band and the resulting disaster. "For now I'm quite happy playing other people's songs, although maybe one day I'll write a hit. I must say I agree with your life philosophy. It is good to find a job which you enjoy, and then in one's free time. I must be interesting, working for someone in such a high position, no?"

Esther smiled. "You'd be more interesting if I weren't exactly like you in terms of our careers. I must say that I'd be interested in hearing you play your guitar sometime. I'm sure you are an adept player."

As Gaspard continued to speak, Lihua became more and more interested in both him and his story. [I]"So your nation has been taken by a group of Communists?" While Lihua had lead a mostly charmed life, the main threat to her position and her family were the communists. Mephras had languished under a communist system for several years, which had left her family and the nation near destruction. Her tone turned slightly darker as she clenched her fist. "Communists are in the best case foolish idealists and in the worst case violent autocrats who wish only to enslave or leech off the hardworking people of the nation, while at the same time, tricking them out of their labor. They and their ilk must be stopped at every turn, and their dangerous ideology stopped." She was embarrassed to have become so bothered, but communism often sent her over the edge. "I'm sorry for the outburst," she said as she smiled politely.

Gaspard smiled. "The Communists are at best deluded fools who resort to hypocrisy to retain their hold on power wherever they may arise. It's a well known fact that no nations have really successfully implemented true and pure Communism, the words of Marx, in their lands. They usually end up as degenerated workers states or whatever Trotsky quipped about. I must say that I'm fond of you, Lihua. Not only are you strikingly attractive but we share the same views about Communism. I don't mind your outburst...in fact I think it helps me learn more about you."

She could definitely tell that Gaspard had natural leadership qualities as he led her through the house, stopping to show her every detail of importance, making sure she understood clearly. When they finally entered the library, she stepped back in shock. She had never seen a library of this scale, especially in a private house. Elegantly carved wooden bookshelves soared to the ceiling, sitting next to floor to ceiling windows, providing nice, natural light in which to read. As Gaspard took them further through this labyrinth of books, the conversation continued. As he asked whether she knew anyone famous in Mephras, she couldn't help but smile. "Well, I visit often with my cousin, who is the Empress, I guess you could say she's pretty well known in our country. As you could imagine, I live a quite comfortable life in Mephras. I currently am studying at the Imperial University in Euphova, although I also spend time at my family's estate in the east of the country. it is no doubt a nice life, but it can be stressful sometimes."

"I am honored to be meeting the Empress of Mephras' beautiful cousin; it's a pleasure to lay my eyes upon you. I'm mostly finished my studies although the remainder has been consumed by my responsibilities as the titular Emperor of Myakka. I must say that I'm lucky to get a break or two from it all....and I must say that I'm sure you get a lot of men swarming you." Gaspard said with the last set of words being mixed with his suave charm. He was beginning to become enamoured with Lihua. He decided that he'd try his luck at courting the fair damsel. He briefly would lock his eyes into hers but make sure that he was not upsetting her.

"Lihua...you are quite an interesting and pretty lass."

Esther, meanwhile, noticed Jon again as she began to walk out of the library with one last smile for Jon up her sleeve. She did not find him to be a love interest but rather as a friend, that is, a colleague in the profession of secretaries. "Good day to you, Jon. Take care of Lihua."

Esther smiled. "You'd be more interesting if I weren't exactly like you in terms of our careers. I must say that I'd be interested in hearing you play your guitar sometime. I'm sure you are an adept player."

Jon smiled politely as he accepted the compliment. "Oh Miss Esther, you are too kind, I try my best, but I'm certainly no pro. I'd love to play for you sometime, though." He was glad to have met this charming and intelligent woman, yet his first duty was to Lihua. Business first, then pleasure.

Gaspard smiled. "The Communists are at best deluded fools who resort to hypocrisy to retain their hold on power wherever they may arise. It's a well known fact that no nations have really successfully implemented true and pure Communism, the words of Marx, in their lands. They usually end up as degenerated workers states or whatever Trotsky quipped about. I must say that I'm fond of you, Lihua. Not only are you strikingly attractive but we share the same views about Communism. I don't mind your outburst...in fact I think it helps me learn more about you."

Lihua was quite glad to hear of his opposition to Communist thought, although it was likely that a devoted monarchist like herself would share her views. "I am quite glad to hear that, although not too surprised. While my own nation is a constitutional monarchy where the people have a large voice, I still believe in the strength of a natural aristocracy. Not an aristocracy of tyrants, but an aristocracy which serves the greater good and sets an example for the common people. No doubt you believe the same?"

"I am honored to be meeting the Empress of Mephras' beautiful cousin; it's a pleasure to lay my eyes upon you. I'm mostly finished my studies although the remainder has been consumed by my responsibilities as the titular Emperor of Myakka. I must say that I'm lucky to get a break or two from it all....and I must say that I'm sure you get a lot of men swarming you." Gaspard said with the last set of words being mixed with his suave charm. He was beginning to become enamoured with Lihua. He decided that he'd try his luck at courting the fair damsel. He briefly would lock his eyes into hers but make sure that he was not upsetting her.

"Lihua...you are quite an interesting and pretty lass."

Lihua was prepared for the conversation to shift after she had revealed her relation to Mei. After all, she was both a great beauty and a woman of great power, making Mephras one of Nova's leading states, and most men she had met had at least a slight crush on the Empress. Yet Gaspard was different. He almost seemed to shrug off the news of the Empress and returned to the subject of herself. Every minute she spent with Gaspard, she felt herself being drawn ever closer to him. "I am too extremely pleased to meet such a kind and handsome gentleman, no future emperor." She winked as she continued. "Hopefully you will have some free time for us to get visit again soon, although I'm sure your first priority is your mission to your nation."

Esther, meanwhile, noticed Jon again as she began to walk out of the library with one last smile for Jon up her sleeve. She did not find him to be a love interest but rather as a friend, that is, a colleague in the profession of secretaries. "Good day to you, Jon. Take care of Lihua."

As Jon noticed Esther leave, he was somewhat saddened, but realized there was most likely a large amount of work to be done. "Good day to you, best of luck with your work." He returned a smile, and waved as she passed from the doorway.

Lihua took a slight queue from her actions, realizing that probably it was best for them to return to the hotel for the day, and make sure that everything was in order. After all, they still hadn't seen the room. "Well, your Highness, it lovely to see your beautiful home here, especially the library. You are a kind heart and possess a great courage and determination." She smiled coyly. "Not to mention, you're quite handsome." She dug a scrap of paper out of her pocket and wrote down some numbers. "This is my number while I'm here in Lamoni, please call soon." With that, she bowed politely, motioned to Jon, and began to head for the door.

Jon smiled politely as he accepted the compliment. "Oh Miss Esther, you are too kind, I try my best, but I'm certainly no pro. I'd love to play for you sometime, though." He was glad to have met this charming and intelligent woman, yet his first duty was to Lihua. Business first, then pleasure.

Esther gave Jon a slip of paper with her number on it. "Call me sometime and we'll arrange a session. I'd love to hear you play your guitar and I'd love to make you into a good friend."


Lihua was quite glad to hear of his opposition to Communist thought, although it was likely that a devoted monarchist like herself would share her views. "I am quite glad to hear that, although not too surprised. While my own nation is a constitutional monarchy where the people have a large voice, I still believe in the strength of a natural aristocracy. Not an aristocracy of tyrants, but an aristocracy which serves the greater good and sets an example for the common people. No doubt you believe the same?"

"Only those with merit and virtue should be depended upon when one rules a nation, Lihua. The aristocracy should work for the common good of the people and not for themselves. I would have no problems working against them if they are proven to be undesirable to the people. The people are as important to a leader as customers are to a business."

Gaspard smiled. "When I return to Myakka, I only hope that I will be able to help it grow into a prosperous and peaceful nation. Perhaps, on that day, you may come along and see the sights. There are plenty of good valleys with dedicated and hard working people residing in them. When I was younger, I would read stories about knights who traveled into the valleys. I've even visited one myself. It's a pleasure to see."

Lihua was prepared for the conversation to shift after she had revealed her relation to Mei. After all, she was both a great beauty and a woman of great power, making Mephras one of Nova's leading states, and most men she had met had at least a slight crush on the Empress. Yet Gaspard was different. He almost seemed to shrug off the news of the Empress and returned to the subject of herself. Every minute she spent with Gaspard, she felt herself being drawn ever closer to him. [I]"I am too extremely pleased to meet such a kind and handsome gentleman, no future emperor." She winked as she continued. "Hopefully you will have some free time for us to get visit again soon, although I'm sure your first priority is your mission to your nation."

"Although my priority is to restore Myakka to what it once was before the Revolution, I must say that I would not mind spending as much as is possible with the Mephrasian Empress' beautiful cousin. Lihua, I am extremely pleased to meet you. I'm sure you have plenty of men after you....and I fear I may become one of them."

Gaspard smiled. "I'm sure you'll find a good man, Lihua. Out of the garden, as they say, must come the perfect rose."


As Jon noticed Esther leave, he was somewhat saddened, but realized there was most likely a large amount of work to be done. [I]"Good day to you, best of luck with your work." He returned a smile, and waved as she passed from the doorway.

Esther waved back. "Good day to you as well, Jon! If you need me, I'll be in my office!"

Esther smiled as she walked away with her mind thinking only about Jon. "He's a handsome and nice man but is he good enough for me to go after? I'll think about it."

Lihua took a slight queue from her actions, realizing that probably it was best for them to return to the hotel for the day, and make sure that everything was in order. After all, they still hadn't seen the room. "Well, your Highness, it lovely to see your beautiful home here, especially the library. You are a kind heart and possess a great courage and determination." She smiled coyly. "Not to mention, you're quite handsome." She dug a scrap of paper out of her pocket and wrote down some numbers. "This is my number while I'm here in Lamoni, please call soon." With that, she bowed politely, motioned to Jon, and began to head for the door.

Gaspard placed the paper in his pocket and felt very happy to have recieved it. He was getting more and more attracted to Lihua and his thoughts began to lean into the romantic. Was he in love with her? He did not know but it felt a lot like he was. After all, what else could you call imagining you were holding hands and kissing some foreign princess? "I must say that it was a pleasure to have you, the gorgeous Lihua Mian, here in my humble abode. Perhaps you may visit again some time? I'd be more than happy to entertain you."

Gaspard opened the door for Lihua and smiled. "Expect a call very soon, Lihua. I'll be here for a long while so we'll be able to...know each other a lot more."

While Lihua left the library, Gaspard sighed and dug his hands into his pockets while walking towards one of the bookshelves. He kept thinking about Lihua and nothing else as he took hold of a book of romantic poetry and began to read. Amazingly, whenever he read poems addressed to some woman, he'd be saying the name of Lihua instead. He was suspecting that he was becoming madly in love with the Mephrasian woman. It made him feel blissful to even think about her name....but would his associates think of this? He could care less, actually, what they thought. If he wanted Lihua, he'd do everything he could to have her no matter what the others said. He was the Emperor and he would so love to make use of that Fuhrerprinzip he read about. He was their Fuhrer. He'd take whomever he wanted as his wife....but only if it got that far.

OOC: Fast forwarding here.

When the night came upon the city, Gaspard was reclining on his favorite chair by the fireplace that had been lit while reading a book with a glass of wine and with his thoughts still on Lihua to the point that he had at least one dream of himself making love to her. That really shocked him. His secretary, Esther, sat next to him with her own glass of wine. She was, perhaps, the person most closest to him and some even thought that the two were in love. Sure, Gaspard thought Esther was pretty, but he felt Lihua was very sexy and he began designing plans to know more about her in his crusade to win her hand. He was now in love with her. Love at first sight, he thought to himself. With a smile, Gaspard took his cellphone and dialed the number for Lihua while Esther watched her liege curiously. When the call got through, Gaspard began to speak.

"Lihua! It's me, Gaspard the Myakkan. I'm just calling to ask if you'd like to go out for a dinner tomorrow night. If you'd prefer, you could come to my manor for a hearty Myakkan feast."

Gaspard waited for his love interest's response. He really wanted her as the lady who held sway over his royal heart and he could only hope and pray that Lihua Mian would become his true love and perhaps, one day, his wife.

As Lihua and Jon sped away from the Myakkan's Manor, her mind whirled with thoughts of what had just transpired. She had just met a handsome, smart, and wealthy man, an emperor nonetheless, and he was interested in her. A look of contentment spread to her face as she turned to Jon. "So...what did you think of that?"

Jon, who had himself been processing what had occurred, especially remembering his interactions with Esther replied. "Well, it was interesting to say the least. I was quite impressed by the intelligence and courage of them both." He smirked slightly as he continued. "I think that Gaspard's quite a catch, and I'm quite sure that both of your parents would approve." He knew how irritated she was at the matchmaking ways of her parents.

Lihua scowled at the mention of her parents. "You know I don't care what they want. I will marry who I wish to marry. End of story. But...I daresay that I am quite attracted to him. His personality, his looks, his grace, they are quite amazing. But I suppose we shall just have to let things take their natural course." As she finished speaking, the car pulled up to the front of the hotel, and a person was ready to escort them to their room.

As the reached the 5th floor of the building, the bellhop opened the door onto a massive hotel suite. A marbled entryway led into a open drawing room with spectacular views of the now dark ocean. Lihua walked out onto the balcony, and gazed out onto the ocean and surrounding area. The gentle sound of the waves hit her ears as she turned to her left and began to look towards the villa of Gaspard. She wasn't sure she could make it out, but she saw a large group of blazing lights in the distance. To her, it didn't really matter as her mind was already focused on him, and she could still picture him perfectly. Satisfied, she returned to the room, and with Jon, began to prepare the suite for their stay.

--------

Lihua stood in front of the bathroom mirror, having just finished preparing for bed, brushing her long black hair. Suddenly, Jon entered the room holding her cellphone. "Lihua, it's Gaspard." He winked and smiled as he handed her the phone.

She brushed him aside as she grabbed the phone. She was happy to hear his voice again, but even more happy with the words that he spoke. "I'd love to. I'll be there around 7:30. Till then." She smiled widely as she put down the phone. She yelled for Jon. "Guess what? We're going back to the manor tomorrow." They were both excited, yet at the same time a bit nervous.

"I wonder how the food will be?"

Gaspard XX, as he would call himself, was dressed in a well made tuxedo while he waited at the Red Rose Manor to look upon the Mephrasian lady that had seized control of his heart in the hopes to know more about her and to court her into being his special lady since, after all, he'd be asked by his supporters to continue the House of Varan with getting an heir for the throne-in-exile. They'd be shocked, though, if he ended up with a girl like Lihua but he would never care at all what they thought. He was enamoured with the girl and would do anything to make her his own. Love can, after all, make people ruthless. Esther, meanwhile, was dressed in a fancy evening dress although Gaspard intended to be alone with Lihua during dinner. Esther, he'd say, would occupy Jon Bedora's attentions and he joked about Jon would swoon over Esther's tall slender frame and gorgeous looks. Esther replied by a good natured glare and a grin. "I'm sure I'll have his attention, my liege."

Esther thought that Lihua was certainly a nice woman for her liege and she hoped that everything would go well for them. She knew that Gaspard had the power to pick his own wife since his father was most likely deceased and his mother unable to even hear the slightest word about her children from her dungeon cell. Gaspard was anxiously awaiting Lihua Mian's arrival with passionate anxiety and visions of how she could be looking on this special night. He'd ask himself the question: "What will she be wearing?" numerous times as he waited for news of her arrival. He was usually a patient man but his patience was being overthrown by his sheer love for the woman. The food he had prepared for the dinner was all authentically Myakkan with traditional chefs making the food and serving it with Myakkan drinks. There was bread, meat, fish and vegetables all displayed in an elaborate display of hope, that is, the hope that Lihua would swoon over Gaspard. The Emperor of the Myakkans, albeit titular, was a slave of Love as are all people. All the other occupants of the Manor were dressed in fine attire albeit they'd never really be seen during the dinner. Gaspard smiled as he watched a butler adjust some roses and candles on the table before he heard the news.

"The Lady Lihua of the House of Mian has arrived, my lord."

Gaspard was overjoyed. "Excellent! Bring here in!" As the messenger went to bring Lihua and Jon into the Red Rose Manor, Gaspard waited patiently at the table with his heart pounding calmly. Eventually, he noticed the silhouettes of his guests. Hopefully, he thought, this would all go well.....

Jon sat in the foyer of the hotel suite, sending a last minute text message to Lihua's parents. "Going out. Good prospect. Will keep safe." As he pressed to confirm the message, he couldn't help but be excited about what would occur in a few hours. He had almost finished preparing, and wore a simple suit. He was hoping to get everything in order before they left, but knowing the nature of Lihua's business, that would be close to impossible. He looked quickly at his watch, and continued with his work.

Lihua, meanwhile was still searching through her luggage in search of the perfect dress. Don't want to be too flirty, but I want to make sure that he knows that I'm still interested. She threw own a dress, turned around in the mirror, only to cast it off in search for something just right. Eventually she decided on a simple blue cocktail dress, not too revealing, but quite sexy at the same time. She laughed when she looked in the mirror. Hope I don't look too desperate. As she finished her makeup, she continued to think about Gaspard, and how the meal would be. She hoped that after the first meeting, his charm and grace would be as the last time. Many men could put on a show, but she hoped to have some time to see the real him.

As she walked over depart in the car, Jon whistled in approval. "Looking good," he smiled jokingly. "I'm sure the Myakkan will fall head over heels for you." He nudged her slightly in jest.

She returned the nudge. "You know I'm not like that. I just wanted to look nice for the dinner." She attempted to play disinterested, but inside, she certainly did care how he viewed her, and she wanted him to be knocked out by her. As they walked out the front door, a silver limousine pulled up to the curb. Within minutes they were speeding down the highway towards the manor. Lihua looked out, waiting to catch a glimpse of the top of the manor, as she wondered how Gaspard would look tonight.

Jon was watching as the dreamy look spread on her face. He was quite surprised that things had moved so quickly. Sure, Lihua had flings with guys in the past, but never this serious and certainly none that had moved this quickly. He could tell that Gaspard was different, and even though it was early, he hoped that it would continue moving forward, and give happiness to Lihua.

Suddenly, the door to the limo opened, and the two stepped out to the beautifully lit front entrance to the mansion. As two servants opened the doors, they stepped into the foyer. Immediately Lihua saw Gaspard approaching. She smiled broadly and leaned inward,hoping for a small kiss. "Good evening, my lord. I hope we both see you in good spirits?"

Suddenly, the door to the limo opened, and the two stepped out to the beautifully lit front entrance to the mansion. As two servants opened the doors, they stepped into the foyer. Immediately Lihua saw Gaspard approaching. She smiled broadly and leaned inward,hoping for a small kiss. "Good evening, my lord. I hope we both see you in good spirits?"

Gaspard was silent when he first saw Lihua in that dress of hers; he felt like one of those men who drooled over sexy women but he made sure that no drool came out of his mouth because, after all, that'd be embarassing and unbecoming of royalty even if they were looking at a woman whose beauty was breathtaking. Gaspard gave her a small kiss, albeit a part of him wanted more, and he smiled at her as if she were his daughter. "I am in good spirits indeed and I must say that you are gorgeous tonight! Lihua, I'm surprised your assistant has not been lusting after you. Who could resist you now?"

Esther then stepped forward and welcomed Jon and Lihua again to the palace. She was like the white Myakkan version of Lihua in her own dress that looked stunning on her slender frame and which could have provoked Jon to start drooling. She'd never really been into relationships as of yet but knew she had the looks of a supermodel and the mind of a genius. "Good evening to you both. I'm pleased to see you again." Esther said with a smile.

As Gaspard walked with Lihua to the table, he felt himself staring a bit at her bottom and sizing her up as if he was hoping to make love to her that very night but he made sure to stop doing that. Sure, he was knocked out by her looks, but did he really want to be a pervert? No, he could not do something like pull a Thomas Seymour and tear apart her dress. That'd surely alienate her from him! Gaspard helped Lihua into her chair and then took his seat while he pointed out the roses and candles. A small orchestra was playing romantic music while thoughts of lust were swirling around in Gaspard`s mind. Damn, he thought. Why did she have to look so beautiful? ''Lihua, I must say that it is a pleasure to see you here again and I hope you are prepared to enjoy some authentic Myakkan cuisine.''

As the butlers brought out appetizers, Gaspard began to eat a bit solemnly but kept studying Lihua as if he were a scholar with some ancient parchments. She was dead on sexy for him and he wondered if she meant to look sexy for him and wondered if she was in love with him to the point that she wanted him to drown in lust. He knew though, that she didn't have the image of a promiscuous slut, but there was the slightest possibility that this was an attempt to charm him into her bed or something. A part of him really wanted that though and began telling him: ''Come on...you know you want her!''

Esther had been told long before the guests arrived to take Jon away from the dining room so Gaspard could be alone with Lihua so Esther took Jon on a tour of the Red Rose Manor before they ended up at the gardens. Esther really looked beautiful in the moonlight; she was smelling the flowers while occassionally looking at Jon. Did she like him? Sure. Did she love him? Who knows. Did he love her? Who knows that either? She walked close beside him as if she wanted the attention albeit unwittingly. ''Don't you just like a walk through the garden under the moonlight, Jon? I am so sure Gaspard will do this with Lihua. It's very romantic.''

bumped

As Lihua embraced Gaspard, she felt comfortable is his strong arms. When he spoke, she couldn't help but smile. "Thank you very much my lord." She continued to play slightly coy, at least for now. As he led her to the dining room, she couldn't help but notice that he seemed to appreciate the dress, and her "form." In most other circumstances, she would have slapped a man upside the head for doing something like that, but tonight was different and she would allow Gaspard to look, and quite possibly, if he played his cards right, to touch later on. She shot a glance to Jon, who too had noticed that he was examining her assets.

Jon rolled his eyes slightly, but he would let it slide as well, for even he had to admit she looked quite good tonight, and he felt that Gaspard was a trustworthy man. After all, he too had quite a temptation tonight. Esther looked extremely attractive tonight, nothing like most of the personal assistants he had seen before. Of course, he usually only met them while they were buried under piles of work and needing sleep, but he had to admit she was quite an exceptional beauty. He eyed her discretely, but attempted to keep some restraint, at least till the end of the dinner.

As they entered the dining room, they were again treated to an opulent interior. A gorgeous table had been set with the finest silver and china while an extravagant flower arrangement sat in the middle of the table. A gilded chandelier hung from the ceiling. Butlers lined the walls, as a slight noise could be heard coming from the kitchen, no doubt the first courses of the feast that would soon fill the table.

As the appetizers were brought out, both Jon and Lihua were astounded by the intricacy of the plating. Each bite was delicious, and despite their early fears of trying Myakkan food, it was quite good. Suddenly, Lihua noticed Jon leave the room with Esther, excusing himself for a while. She hoped that he would at least try to stay professional alone with the lovely secretary, but she didn't really care. Realizing she was alone with Gaspard, she hoped that now they would be able to learn more about each other. "This food is very delicious. I think that Myakkan food must be introduced to my country. I am sure it would be a great hit." She leaned in slightly, and looking at Gaspard, continued in a lower voice. "But of course, tonight, I daresay I'm interested in a bit more than the food." She then leaned back slightly in her chair, and hoped he had taken the less than subtle hint.

Meanwhile, Jon walked in the moonlit garden next to Esther. "It is quite beautiful, although it pales in comparison to your own beauty." He wasn't the most suave man on the planet, but he hoped that they would be able to have at least a little fun tonight.

After all, he too had quite a temptation tonight. Esther looked extremely attractive tonight, nothing like most of the personal assistants he had seen before. Of course, he usually only met them while they were buried under piles of work and needing sleep, but he had to admit she was quite an exceptional beauty. He eyed her discretely, but attempted to keep some restraint, at least till the end of the dinner.

Esther noticed that Jon was eying her and she only smiled at him to signify she knew what he was doing. She did not mind his attentions and decided that she would entertain him. If it got too far, she could easily pull out, that is, if she wanted to. She was a single woman and a part of her told her that it might have been time to just settle down. If she settled down with Jon, she'd probably have to talk to him about their careers but, then again, love was like that. It's blissful but arguments are always bound to occur.

As they entered the dining room, they were again treated to an opulent interior. A gorgeous table had been set with the finest silver and china while an extravagant flower arrangement sat in the middle of the table. A gilded chandelier hung from the ceiling. Butlers lined the walls, as a slight noise could be heard coming from the kitchen, no doubt the first courses of the feast that would soon fill the table.

Some shouts and curses could be heard from the kitchens but Gaspard did not seem to mind but rather he smiled about it before looking at Lihua with his eyes measuring her up again. The carnal urges within him kept building up and he tried to dam them all up whenever he could. He just ended up, for now, occassionally eyeing Lihua while eating his food. When the drinks came out, he smiled. "A toast to the restoration of peace in Myakka!"

As the appetizers were brought out, both Jon and Lihua were astounded by the intricacy of the plating. Each bite was delicious, and despite their early fears of trying Myakkan food, it was quite good. Suddenly, Lihua noticed Jon leave the room with Esther, excusing himself for a while. She hoped that he would at least try to stay professional alone with the lovely secretary, but she didn't really care. Realizing she was alone with Gaspard, she hoped that now they would be able to learn more about each other. "This food is very delicious. I think that Myakkan food must be introduced to my country. I am sure it would be a great hit." She leaned in slightly, and looking at Gaspard, continued in a lower voice. "But of course, tonight, I daresay I'm interested in a bit more than the food." She then leaned back slightly in her chair, and hoped he had taken the less than subtle hint.

"It would not be a problem for me to help you bring Myakkan food to the people of Mephras and I got to admit to you that I'm more interested in....other things as well." Gaspard took the less than subtle hint of Lihua's statement and he felt like this was all getting like a dream but he would work at courting her until she was his one and only lady. "I must say, Lihua, that you really look beautiful tonight and that your dress only emphazises your beauty. Alas, you must make men want to ravish you but don't worry about me. I'm just your humble admirer from afar."

Gaspard smiled. He really did have thoughts of ravishing Lihua but at times he'd wondered what response he would get for doing that. A slap? A demand for an encore? Charges? That would humilitate him if she accused him of rape and possibly bring down hell upon the Government in Exile and its hopes of returning to power in Myakka but he doubted that would ever happen. He would never dare dream of raping Lihua but rather using subtle courting to get into the bedchambers with her.

As the food was nearly done for both of them and with dessert coming out from the kitchens, Gaspard smiled at Lihua. "Lihua, once we are done here, how would you like to go for a walk around the manor? I did not show you all of it last time."

Gaspard grinned a little but covered it up immediately so it didn't look like he was basically asking her to come with him on a tour leading to the bedroom. He did not want to be made into a sex addict that cared only about sleeping with Lihua and not Lihua herself. Heaven forbid! "I can assure you that Jon and Esther will be fine without us. They need a break from being our assistants anyway and I do want to know you a lot more better, Lihua. I really would like to. There must be more to do that I don't even know but which I want to study like scholars with ancient parchments."

They began eating dessert soon enough and Gaspard smiled. "Do you have a boyfriend or anything like that, Lihua? It's a horrid crime for you NOT to have someone. Look at you! You are gorgeous, probably smart and quite charming! I don't have one myself but I'm...willing to get my hands on one."

Meanwhile, Jon walked in the moonlit garden next to Esther. "It is quite beautiful, although it pales in comparison to your own beauty." He wasn't the most suave man on the planet, but he hoped that they would be able to have at least a little fun tonight.

Esther smiled. "That was a nice compliment, Jon. I really like you but don't think I'm going to jump into your arms. You've got to earn that. Love mostly doesn't just happen. It requires people to cultivate it and earn good fruits from it."

bumped.

OOC: You can just PM me to bump, I've been a bit busy, but I shall reply

IC: Esther noticed that Jon was eying her and she only smiled at him to signify she knew what he was doing. She did not mind his attentions and decided that she would entertain him. If it got too far, she could easily pull out, that is, if she wanted to. She was a single woman and a part of her told her that it might have been time to just settle down. If she settled down with Jon, she'd probably have to talk to him about their careers but, then again, love was like that. It's blissful but arguments are always bound to occur.


Jon decided that after his last comment, that moving slowly at this time would probably be the best route. After all, it was likely that the focus of the evening was Lihua and Gaspard, but he decided that a bit of fun couldn't hurt. Maybe they could have something, but if it didn't work, it would also be fine. "I certainly understand, and didn't mean to be rude, being friends is quite fine. I've quite enjoyed our time together tonight, and I hope that you as well have enjoyed it. I know that you are quite busy, but hopefully you can still have some time to enjoy yourself."

As the food was nearly done for both of them and with dessert coming out from the kitchens, Gaspard smiled at Lihua. "Lihua, once we are done here, how would you like to go for a walk around the manor? I did not show you all of it last time."

Gaspard grinned a little but covered it up immediately so it didn't look like he was basically asking her to come with him on a tour leading to the bedroom. He did not want to be made into a sex addict that cared only about sleeping with Lihua and not Lihua herself. Heaven forbid! "I can assure you that Jon and Esther will be fine without us. They need a break from being our assistants anyway and I do want to know you a lot more better, Lihua. I really would like to. There must be more to do that I don't even know but which I want to study like scholars with ancient parchments."

They began eating dessert soon enough and Gaspard smiled. "Do you have a boyfriend or anything like that, Lihua? It's a horrid crime for you NOT to have someone. Look at you! You are gorgeous, probably smart and quite charming! I don't have one myself but I'm...willing to get my hands on one."

As Gaspard asked if she would like to see the rest of the manor, she realized that her invitation had been accepted. "Of course, I would love to see the rest of your manor. I'm sure your private apartments are quite stunning to behold." She hoped the line wasn't too corny, but she decided that there was nothing wrong with being a bit playful.

After the desert was finished, they both got up and began to proceed through the manor. As she had guessed, they reached different areas of the house, and especially places that were more for personal life. The rooms were smaller and more intimate, but still quite opulent. "You certainly have a very nice place here, although I'd guess that your house in Myakka is even nicer."

She was somewhat surprised at his sudden question about her secrets. It was true that she was a generally quiet and hidden person, but most people didn't ask. Normally, she would be offended, but she wanted to open up to Gaspard. "Many seem to want to know my secrets, but I'm often rather secretive." She stared into his eyes before she continued. "But for you, I will open myself up. I'm really not very complicated. I want what most people want, happiness, security, someone to love." With that she again winked. "Could you, Gaspard, love me?" She smiled coyly as she said those words, hoping that things could move from there. Now where's the bedroom...

OOC: You can just PM me to bump, I've been a bit busy, but I shall reply

OOC: I shall remember that.

IC:

Jon decided that after his last comment, that moving slowly at this time would probably be the best route. After all, it was likely that the focus of the evening was Lihua and Gaspard, but he decided that a bit of fun couldn't hurt. Maybe they could have something, but if it didn't work, it would also be fine. "I certainly understand, and didn't mean to be rude, being friends is quite fine. I've quite enjoyed our time together tonight, and I hope that you as well have enjoyed it. I know that you are quite busy, but hopefully you can still have some time to enjoy yourself."

"I've enjoyed my time with you indeed, Jon, and I must say that I may be busy but I do have time to enjoy myself whenever I really feel like it since my liege is not too strict on my work. He does let me have the liberty to live my life outside of the manor. I've been able to see much of the city thanks to that." Esther said with a smile.

"Jon, would you like to see my office? I'll show you where I work and all the stuff I use and rely on such as my notes."



As Gaspard asked if she would like to see the rest of the manor, she realized that her invitation had been accepted. [I]"Of course, I would love to see the rest of your manor. I'm sure your private apartments are quite stunning to behold." She hoped the line wasn't too corny, but she decided that there was nothing wrong with being a bit playful.

"This manor may not be like the palaces of Myakka that I am accustomed to but it still provides me with much comfort and that is all I really want. I must take you on a tour of the rest of the manor which you were unable to see on your last visit and I assure you that it shall be quite pleasurable." Gaspard said with a sly smirk.

After the desert was finished, they both got up and began to proceed through the manor. As she had guessed, they reached different areas of the house, and especially places that were more for personal life. The rooms were smaller and more intimate, but still quite opulent. "You certainly have a very nice place here, although I'd guess that your house in Myakka is even nicer."

"I was very lucky to have recieved this manor from the Government of Lamoni whom have given our cause much support and assistance and my house in Myakka is, indeed, even nicer but I fear that it is declining as we speak due to the Reds' dislike of symbols of the Crown's rule. If everything goes well, I'll take you to Myakka one day and show you around."

She was somewhat surprised at his sudden question about her secrets. It was true that she was a generally quiet and hidden person, but most people didn't ask. Normally, she would be offended, but she wanted to open up to Gaspard. "Many seem to want to know my secrets, but I'm often rather secretive." She stared into his eyes before she continued. "But for you, I will open myself up. I'm really not very complicated. I want what most people want, happiness, security, someone to love." With that she again winked. "Could you, Gaspard, love me?" She smiled coyly as she said those words, hoping that things could move from there. Now where's the bedroom...

Gaspard smiled as he listened to Lihua speak to him about herself and felt like she was really hoping to open up to him which was rather quite surprising since he never would have thought of her doing that. When she asked him to love her, Gaspard felt immensely happy as if he were a poor man who recieved a vast amount of money from some contest. Gaspard felt himself reach out to Lihua and he felt his hands take firm hold of her arms covered in smooth skin before he thrusted himself upon her and gave her a passionate kiss. He then took her hand and grinned. "If you wish, fair maiden of Mephras, we can find somewhere....private to entertain ourselves even further."

Gaspard knew that she would get the hint that he wanted to take her to his bedroom and he would not have minded at all making love to her but, he knew, that it was up to her to decide if she wanted it....but he really hoped that she would consent so that they could bask in the aura of intense and pleasurable passion until the morning.

OOC: Moving to the morning after

IC: tick.tick.tick.tick. A small white hand moved quickly around a simply yet elegant alarm clock which sat in a dimly lit room, touched only by the first rays of the sun rising over the peaceful Lamoni shore, peaking through the panes of the bedroom's windows. Suddenly, the small hand touched the top of the circle, queuing the quick movement of a small mallet which protruded from the top of the clock, tapping the two small bells on either side of the clock. RIIIIIIIIIINNNNNGGG!! The piercing noise suddenly filled the air of the once tranquil room.

Lihua jumped up, startled from the sudden noise. Sitting there in the dim light, thoughts began to rush into her brain as she remembered where she was and what had happened only hours before. The bliss of her remembrance of the joys of the evening were shattered by what might soon occur. After all, this was more than simply a house, it was practically an office building. What if he has an appointment? Will the maids barge in any moment? I hope I haven't offended some ancient Myakkan traditions. She looked over at the sleeping body of Gaspard, still unmoved by the irritating chime of the alarm. She guessed he would rise soon, and hopefully he would have a plan on where to go from there. I'm guessing a quiet breakfast is probably out of the question.

She rose from the bed, and began to find the clothing she had so quickly shed the night before. As she began to retrieve the pieces which were sprawled around the room, she remembered their intimate encounter, each article found serving almost as a puzzle piece in her memory, recalling all of the pleasures and emotions that had moved so freely in the darkness and freedom of the night. There was no doubt in her mind that Gaspard was something special, if not the one, for her. Never before had she felt so happy and so safe with another person. She hoped that this would not be the end, and that despite all of the complications that might arise from marrying a man of such high birth, they could find something great together.

All of her clothing collected, she moved to the nightstand upon which sat her cellphone. Suddenly, she remembered. JON! She was somewhat embarrassed that she had completely forgotten about his presence at dinner last night, although she guessed that he had either found his way home, or found his way somewhere more desirable. It didn't really matter though, as he could take care of himself. As she reached for the cellphone, she noticed Gaspard beginning to stir, and paused. She stood in anticipation of his awakening, hoping against odds that he, an emperor of an entire nation, would still have time for her today.

Many times had Gaspard been around the company of women since he was brought into the world through the painful but delightful birthing process and the daughters of the Myakkan noblemen who were able to meet and discuss things with the first son of the deceased Emperor and his missing wife. Gaspard had been inclined to admiring women but it was only Lihua who made him so in tune with his carnal side. The entire previous night he had spent making love to the woman he only met two times and yet he felt like they knew each other a lifetime. He was in love with her and craved more nights like the last and did not care if anyone had any problems with seeing them together in his chambers. Gaspard rose from the bed and noticed that Lihua was out of the bed. When he noticed her, he simply smiled. "Did you have a good sleep, Lihua?"

Gaspard got out of the bed and began changing into the clothes he always set aside for the coming days while a smile seemed permanently fixed on his face as if he were remembering vividly his night of pleasure with the girl from Mephras. "I had a wonderful time last night and I must praise your ability to keep me pleasured, Lihua. I do hope that we can do it again some time if possible, that is, if you'd accept."

Gaspard handed Lihua her clothes but got one last look at her in the nude which excited him and made him very glad that it was he who had slept with her and not someone else and that it was he who she loved. A maid knocked at the door and Gaspard opened it to let her bring in the morning meal. She noticed Lihua but just smiled and walked away; the meal oddly looked like Gaspard had ordered it to be made for two people. The maid had walked off with the idea that Gaspard and Lihua hit it off the previous night but she did not seem to mind. "You are more than welcome to stay and eat with me, Lihua. I don't really mind if you stay long today since I'm really happy to have you around me even if just for five minutes."

Gaspard served Lihua some food and smiled before taking his own share and eating but with his eyes fixed on Lihua at times which made it all look like he was a tourist looking upon a marvelous statue made by some legendary sculptor. "Lihua, don't feel ashamed of sleeping with me. You did nothing wrong. The people of the Manor here, my Court-in-Exile, will be made to respect you as if you were a fellow Myakkan. I have the power to make that happen and the support to keep it going. I'm also sure that you can meet my ministers and relatives including my three siblings but it depends if they are not all out in Nephi. All of my father's ministers, their families, my siblings and the family of my oldest sister along with a governess call the Red Rose Manor their home until the day comes when we may all return to Myakka and retake what was stolen from us."

Gaspard smiled at Lihua. "I really want to take you to Myakka someday, Lihua, and show you all that there is to see such as the Jhildan Valley where our nation's founder's wife hailed from and the village of Theran where Sabrina Theran, Myakka's most famous woman, was born and raised. I am a direct descendant of our nation's founder, Gaspard Varan, and was named after him. Sabrina and Gaspard had a bitter rivalry about uniting Myakka and Sabrina, the peasant girl who became royalty through bloodshed, lost her life ironically thanks to a peasant boy. I think I might have showed you the portraits of Sabrina that we have here but I think you may want to see the records we have of her life including some Medieval manuscripts. I would also like it if we could explore Nephi together or just spend time with each other. I love you, Lihua Mian, and I do hope that your love for me is truly sincere. If I do become the Emperor of Myakka one day, I really hope to see you at my coronation."

As Gaspard arose and began to speak to her once again, his soothing, deep, voice calmed all her fears and warmed her heart. His calm demeanor suggested that everything was fine, and that she could stay for at least a little longer. She chuckled slightly at his first question, "Well, what little bit I got was quite nice." Her heart leaped as he continued. He too, had felt the strong connection between them, and now she realized that it would be able to continue on, at least for now. "I would love to do this again sometime. Maybe I'll take you for 'dinner' the next time?"

As he continued to dress, she noticed a quick knock at the door, and before she knew it, a maid had barged into the room. She seemed rather unsurprised, and simply tended to the large silver tray which seemed to be carrying breakfast. She glanced only slightly at Lihua, with a courteous smile, bowed, and left to continue on with whatever other work she needed to finish. Lihua's shock turned to relief, as it seemed the servants were completely fine with what had taken place. Gaspard's assurance to this fact was a pleasant surprise. While Mephras was generally one of the more liberal states in Nova, Lihua had heard stories of places much less tolerant, especially when it came to the royal families. As Gaspard moved to serve the platter which had been placed on the table, the aroma of the food touched her nose. "It looks quite delicious, I would love to share this morning with you." In the back of her mind, she remembered what a busy man he was, and all the more appreciated this short breakfast time they could spend together.

As they sat together at a small table in the morning light, she listened to the history which Gaspard told. She tried to imagine the young Sabrina, a strong, and powerful woman who's bravery influenced so strongly the history of he country. She couldn't help but think of her own cousin, who although living in much easier times, still had changed Mephras in so many ways. "I would love to see those portraits and manuscripts. I can't help but think that the spirit of Sabrina lives on in ambitious women, such as my cousin the Empress. I'm sure Mei would love to hear of her story." She also attempted to imagine the beautiful scenery of the valleys and grasslands, no doubt teeming with wildlife. "I'd love to visit all of these places with you someday, Gaspard. We must do it sometime."

But suddenly, the conversation became a bit more serious. As he turned to ask her to be at his coronation, she couldn't help but wonder how that was meant. Could she become the empress, or would he have her as a friend, or would the arrangement be something else. She looked into his eyes, and realized that she could trust him, and that their relationship would, despite any official obstacles, be able to be strong together. She kept her reply equally ambiguous. "I would love to be at your coronation, which I'm sure shall come quite soon."

She glanced quickly at her watch, and realized that their quick five minutes had become nearly an hour. She rose quickly. "I'm sorry that I stayed so long, as I'm sure you have an eventfully day ahead of you." She moved toward him for one last kiss, a slight remembrance of the time they had shared and moved to leave. "Till later, my love."

As Gaspard arose and began to speak to her once again, his soothing, deep, voice calmed all her fears and warmed her heart. His calm demeanor suggested that everything was fine, and that she could stay for at least a little longer. She chuckled slightly at his first question, "Well, what little bit I got was quite nice." Her heart leaped as he continued. He too, had felt the strong connection between them, and now she realized that it would be able to continue on, at least for now. "I would love to do this again sometime. Maybe I'll take you for 'dinner' the next time?"

Gaspard smiled. "I would, of course, love to do this again sometime and I would not mind it if you took me to dinner then. Just make sure you call me about it so I can get prepared for it. That way, I won't look all sloppy and unbecoming of a man of my station. God forbid that those etiquette classes go to waste!"

Gaspard chuckled and took a bite of his food. Once he finished eating, he spoke again. "I must say that I must be blessed to have your love, Lihua, and it really makes me be able to think of something else other than the damned course of politics which is quite tedious though important."

As he continued to dress, she noticed a quick knock at the door, and before she knew it, a maid had barged into the room. She seemed rather unsurprised, and simply tended to the large silver tray which seemed to be carrying breakfast. She glanced only slightly at Lihua, with a courteous smile, bowed, and left to continue on with whatever other work she needed to finish. Lihua's shock turned to relief, as it seemed the servants were completely fine with what had taken place. Gaspard's assurance to this fact was a pleasant surprise. While Mephras was generally one of the more liberal states in Nova, Lihua had heard stories of places much less tolerant, especially when it came to the royal families. As Gaspard moved to serve the platter which had been placed on the table, the aroma of the food touched her nose. "It looks quite delicious, I would love to share this morning with you." In the back of her mind, she remembered what a busy man he was, and all the more appreciated this short breakfast time they could spend together.

"I don't have to get working right away because my ministers always are around to making sure that things are going smoothly whether or not I'm around which is a blessing since it lets me do other things such as be with you or look upon my father's books and parchments. You need not worry about me having to get to work....they are more than capable in handling it."

As they sat together at a small table in the morning light, she listened to the history which Gaspard told. She tried to imagine the young Sabrina, a strong, and powerful woman who's bravery influenced so strongly the history of he country. She couldn't help but think of her own cousin, who although living in much easier times, still had changed Mephras in so many ways. "I would love to see those portraits and manuscripts. I can't help but think that the spirit of Sabrina lives on in ambitious women, such as my cousin the Empress. I'm sure Mei would love to hear of her story." She also attempted to imagine the beautiful scenery of the valleys and grasslands, no doubt teeming with wildlife. "I'd love to visit all of these places with you someday, Gaspard. We must do it sometime."

Gaspard smiled. "When I was a wee little lad, I remember being taught about Sabrina and how she lived the life of an ordinary peasant girl even while she was recognized as a monarch whose rule covered much of my beloved nation. Sabrina was originally a peasant girl whose village was often raided by bandits and who felt the need to bring about the restoration of peace. She went out on a journey to gather support for her cause and soon enough became the leader of many and was well known for being strikingly attractive but very deadly to the point that some men feared courting her although one man, one of her very own prisoners of war at that, ended up marrying her and having several children. It was my long lost ancestor, Gaspard the First, who waged war against her despite the fact that both of them shared the same goal of uniting all Myakkans. When the two finally met in battle, Sabrina was slain ironically and unwittingly by a peasant boy who threw his javelin at her and did not even know, then, that it had hit her out of all the people. First her husband had died in battle since her army was once called a mom and pop style army and now it was her turn. When she died, Gaspard the First mourned the loss of his greatest rival so much that he paid for the funeral out of his own pocket as well as for the construction of her tomb since her nation was largely incapable due to its subsequent collapse to do anything. Since her demise, she has been invoked as a symbol of how women can change the world and how women can aspire to become great people. Sabrina was a woman who sought only the revival of peace and she ended up dying in front of the army of a man, my legendary ancestor, who would realize her dream."

Gaspard smiled. "Sorry for the long history lesson but yes, we can visit all the valleys and fields and have our fun there. I can even show you the valley where Gaspard the First found the love of his life....and I would love to one day visit Mephras to see the land where the world's most beautiful woman was born."

He winked at her and smiled. Gaspard was hooked on Lihua as if she was a badly needed drug used to satisfy one's addictions. Lihua was his opium, his alcohol, his one and only love.

But suddenly, the conversation became a bit more serious. As he turned to ask her to be at his coronation, she couldn't help but wonder how that was meant. Could she become the empress, or would he have her as a friend, or would the arrangement be something else. She looked into his eyes, and realized that she could trust him, and that their relationship would, despite any official obstacles, be able to be strong together. She kept her reply equally ambiguous. "I would love to be at your coronation, which I'm sure shall come quite soon."

"Fortune shall show me whether or not I am to ever be coronated, my love, and I would pray that you would be able to attend and perhaps there is a slight chance, my love, that you could be a very major character at the coronation...."

He felt like asking her here to marry him but he decided to wait on that. Sure, he assumed she'd probably jump for joy and say yes, but he did not want to rush into things no matter how good they were.

She glanced quickly at her watch, and realized that their quick five minutes had become nearly an hour. She rose quickly. "I'm sorry that I stayed so long, as I'm sure you have an eventfully day ahead of you." She moved toward him for one last kiss, a slight remembrance of the time they had shared and moved to leave. "Till later, my love."

Gaspard rose from his seat and gave Lihua a tender and passionate kiss with his hands reaching down to her bottom and it was possible to feel him giving her a bit of a squeeze down there which made him grin in delight. He bowed and smiled. "Good day, my lady love, and do feel free to call me later."

OOC: How shall we continue from here? I'm thinking that he will ask for marriage soon.

Things have gone so fast...

Lihua stood on the balcony of her suite in the Lamonian hotel. Just over a week ago, she had wondered if it was even worth reserving this room because she would probably return home quickly, but now, she knew many of the hotel staff on a first name basis. When they would come to clean the room, they would often joke about Lihua being a "resident" and ask if she planned to stay here forever. It was amazing how much had changed in such a short time, from being a shy person who didn't know where her future would lead to now possibly not even returning home if everything were to go right. All because of Gaspard. The name flowed gently through her mind as she conjured his image for what seemed like the millionth time. Gaspard, that once mysterious foreigner who now was the love of her life. She had found her knight in shining armour, the man who she wanted to be with forever.

Ever since their first meeting on the sunny Lamoni beach, and the exciting night that followed, they had only spent more and more time together. Early in the morning she would drive over to the manor, and wait near the gate, and sure enough, every morning, he would come out, and they would spend a little time together. It might only be a few minutes at the beach, or sometimes they would spend hours just watching the sun slowly rise, talking about various subjects, or sometimes nothing in particular. Just being together made her happy. In the evenings, if there was time, they would spend time together of a different sort. With every passing meeting, she grew closer and closer to him, this Emperor in Exile.

Tonight marked the week and a half anniversary of their first meeting, and she had agreed to meet him for dinner at a nice oceanside restaurant only a few minutes from the hotel. She had heard many good things about it, and Gaspard assured her that it would be a perfect place for them to celebrate this little "anniversary." She thought it was a bit silly, but she figured there was no need to complain about a nice dinner out. After all, everyday there seemed to be more and more to celebrate besides the continuing success of their relationship. Apparently, the situation in Myakka seemed to be slowly improving. It seemed as though the Monarchists position withing the country was getting better, and hopefully they would be able to push the Communists out of key positions in the nation. This nation she had only weeks before no clue about had now become one of the largest focuses of her everyday life. She felt strongly for the suffering of the Myakkan people, and hoped one day that she would be able to give something to them, be it peace or friendship, anything that would ease their pain.

She walked into the front hall and stood in front of the mirror. She slowly brushed back her long black hair as she grasped a small pearl earring. As she put them slowly into each of her ear lobes, she reflected on the small, lustrous pearls. They were a gift from her mother, something which had been handed down through their family for several generations. She hoped that these little pieces which had seen much more life than herself, would give her a bit of luck when she went out tonight. Things had been moving fast, and she really didn't know what would come next.

As she walked out of the hotel lobby, she held out her hand to hail a cab in the busy hotel front. As a simple, clean looking cab approached, she smiled at the driver, and gave him the order. "Take me to the restaurant on the seaside cliffs."

Every thing is coming together.....

Gaspard looked at the massive map of his homeland which was surrounded by miniature portraits of all of the monarchs who had ever reigned over Myakka from the Middle Ages all the way to his father whose reign ended just three years after the map was made. It made him smile to think that he would soon be on subsequent maps with his name written in gold colored calligraphy but this was not really the main thing on his mind. He had been thinking only about Lihua Mian. She was his entire world and equally important as was his crusade to restore the centuries old Monarchy in the Myakkan nation. It was as if he was Don Quixote and if he had actually found his Dulcinea who he never ceased to praise as the world's most beautiful woman. It was as if, he thought, he'd been blessed with the presence of an angel. As he walked around the manor in a calm and stoic manner, Gaspard kept thinking about her while he watched his ministers begin circulating his new decree which declared that all Communist soldiers would be spared from trials except for their superiors and the entirety of the Communist leadership who would be put on trial and dispatched for their crimes. The decree, known as the Red Rose Decree, would be sent to the Regency for them to circulate within Communist ranks. The Red Rose Decree was signed last night into effect by Gaspard himself who was busying himself with his plans not only to marry Lihua Mian but also travel to Myakka and become the Emperor of Myakka as his blood right demanded. His dream was to have himself and Lihua coronated and then for Myakka to be rebuilt into an economic power free of tyranny and chaos. He got hold of his tuxedo and slipped it on while dreaming of himself making love to Lihua and that really got him excited as such visions would do to any man or lesbian when they think about the woman they love. Combing his hair in front of the massive mirror that he had in his room, Gaspard was letting himself fall victim to his healthy obsession with Lihua Mian. It would be at the dinner he invited her to that he would propose to her and it would be then that he would have gained the first part of his dream. With Lihua at his side and Myakka under him, he would be at peace.

After getting all freshened up for this relatively special occassion, Gaspard got into his limosuine and ordered the chauffer to drive to the restaurant where he had booked a VIP room for himself and Lihua to use so they would be secluded from the public eye. The exquisite and regal ring he would give her was tucked away in a pocket while his eyes looked out the window to examine his surroundings. His mind was focused on a vision of his coronation with Lihua at his side as he hoped it would be. They would be in regal robes and be sitting on two thrones in front of the masses of nobles and commoners like his ancestors had done for centuries. He would become the second Gaspard Varan and bring peace to Myakka. He would make himself known as the Restorer while his illustrious ancestor was the Founder and he would have a heir with Lihua who would continue the Varan dynasty's hold on the Myakkan throne. He then projected that once all of that was finished, he could die a happy man. As the limosuine continued on its course towards the restaurant, Gaspard continued to think about his plans for the future. With a smile, he uttered: "Lihua, Myakka, Peace.....that's all I hope for."

Arriving in the restaurant and with his sights set upon the love of his life, he took Lihua's hand and gave it a light kiss before he rose his head up to gaze upon her face. "You look gorgeous tonight, my love, and Fortune has smiled upon me by gracing me with the presence of the most beautiful woman ever to be seen by my two eyes. I feel privileged to be in your presence, my love, it is a pleasurable honor to just look at you."

Gaspard took Lihua to the VIP room that he had booked for them and showed her that also had it decorated with all sorts of luxuries including roses and bottles of the finest wine while the walls were adorned with flags and banners along with exquisite drawings. He helped her into her chair after giving her bottom a quick squeeze (a grin grew on his face then; he felt a bit playful) and then began telling her about the food and what they could expect to have. After he placed his order, Gaspard began to talk about his plans for Myakka.

"My love, I am going to begin the final preparations for my return to Myakka this week. The first part of my plan is that I have written up the Red Rose Decree which pardons all Communist soldiers but not those with whom no pardon can be granted. The common soldier, Lihua, may not actually be devoted to the cause but rather be a Communist soldier only because he needs the money for his family and thus I cannot bear myself to kill such a man. I do hope that you will understand this, Lihua, since I do not wish to debate this with you. My next plan will be the creation of a constitutional monarchy once I return instead of resorting to the centuries old absolutism that my father fought to the end to defend. The House of Representatives will be directly elected by the people while the House of Peers is composed of all the noblemen and noblewomen of Myakka. There will be a constitution that gives me significant powers albeit I am not going to be able to claim that I am above everyone else. I shall also introduce a Charter of Rights that shall be equal for all men and women and which shall ensure that all children are treated with the care they deserve. It shall state that the Government supports the fundamental human rights that you must take for granted in Mephras. The hot issues of modern society (OOC: abortion, etc) shall also be addressed within the Charter and you are more than welcome to offer suggestions since it is still being drafted. The Empress Consort would be given no powers whatsoever in the new Myakka but sbe would be allowed to voice any opinions you have about certain issues since, my love, I could not bear to let you think of me as a chauvinist or of Myakka as ignorant of the rights of women."

Gaspard took a sip of his wine before continuing to talk. He did not want to drone on but he wanted to deal with all of this stuff early on so that he could focus on more intimate matters of importance. The food was arriving and as they ate, Gaspard kept staring at Lihua. "My love, I do hope that you will be able to spend the night with me tonight. Perhaps I could pay a visit to your hotel room?"

Gaspard winked a little before he felt the metaphorical twitching of the little box in his pocket that contained the ring he intended to place upon Lihua's dainty hand. He would kneel before her as if she were an idol of Aphrodite and that his marriage proposal was an honest supplication to Her in the hopes she would grace him with the realization of his dreams. He decided that he would propose to her after dessert. "Lihua, my love, I must say that you are more than welcome to speak your mind about the Myakkan crisis and I must say that I would like to visit Mephras one day with you as my tour guide and I do think that you would not need Jon to come along. He needs a break and we could use the privacy and alone time. How is Jon anyway? Has he had any luck with Esther?"

Gaspard laughed a little. "I would not mind it at all if Jon and Esther fell in love like we did since I know she is a responsible and trustworthy woman and I know that she would be able to handle her relationships with care. I also think that Jon would be a good man for her but then again it is her choice alone to make. I would not mind it if she ended up retiring from her post to live with Jon in Mephras because I am sure that we could keep in touch. She's a close friend of mine and was one of my father during that revolution led by those knaves and curs. She told me all about the Fall of Marianopolis when she came to me from the refugee ship and I hired her immediately as my own secretary and since then she has served me faithfully and I hope to retain her as my secretary until I end up in the Crypt although I'd understand if I would have to adjust to another woman."

Gaspard smiled and felt the metaphorical twitching again for a while. "Lihua, it is my hope that Myakka can one day be brought back to what it once was and that I will assume my rightful place as the Emperor although I don't consider that to be the most important thing in life. If I had you, at least, and was not Emperor then I'd have compensation for the inability to honor my blood right. Lihua, my love, if I am coronated.....I'd pray for you to be at my side."

OOC: I'm going to have him propose right here. Assume that time has passed. I'm hopeful to get this dealt with so we can finish up here and have them talk about getting to Myakka.

Once dessert had been finished, Gaspard took out the box from his pocket and walked towards Lihua with a smile upon his face. Standing in front of her, he bowed and then went on one knee with the box in his hand; flipping it open to reveal the ring that would only be worn by members of royal families. He began to speak in a refined tone of voice: "Lihua Mian, since the first day we met I have been interested in thee and since our first carnal engagement had I been obsessed with thy gorgeous image and I have been unable to get you out of my head. You are the most beautiful woman in the entire world and I cannot bear to be without you so I, a humble soul, must beg thee for the answer to this question: Will you marry me?"

Gaspard felt his soul shake in fear over what she would say to him although he felt that she would say yes but he was ready to accept the unbearable refusal that could come from her mouth although he would have been mentally injured if he heard that. If she said yes, then the first major part of his plan would be dealt with. The next, he knew, would be the return to Myakka.....

Every thing is coming together.....
Arriving in the restaurant and with his sights set upon the love of his life, he took Lihua's hand and gave it a light kiss before he rose his head up to gaze upon her face. "You look gorgeous tonight, my love, and Fortune has smiled upon me by gracing me with the presence of the most beautiful woman ever to be seen by my two eyes. I feel privileged to be in your presence, my love, it is a pleasurable honor to just look at you."

As Gaspard greeted her, she stared straight into his dark eyes. It was such a delight to see him once again, even if it had only been a few hours, it seemed as days. She met his kiss with another, and began to reply. "No, my love, it is truly my pleasure to be able to be with you once again. To have met you, to be with you, is my greatest joy."

"My love, I am going to begin the final preparations for my return to Myakka this week. The first part of my plan is that I have written up the Red Rose Decree which pardons all Communist soldiers but not those with whom no pardon can be granted. The common soldier, Lihua, may not actually be devoted to the cause but rather be a Communist soldier only because he needs the money for his family and thus I cannot bear myself to kill such a man. I do hope that you will understand this, Lihua, since I do not wish to debate this with you. My next plan will be the creation of a constitutional monarchy once I return instead of resorting to the centuries old absolutism that my father fought to the end to defend. The House of Representatives will be directly elected by the people while the House of Peers is composed of all the noblemen and noblewomen of Myakka. There will be a constitution that gives me significant powers albeit I am not going to be able to claim that I am above everyone else. I shall also introduce a Charter of Rights that shall be equal for all men and women and which shall ensure that all children are treated with the care they deserve. It shall state that the Government supports the fundamental human rights that you must take for granted in Mephras. The hot issues of modern society (OOC: abortion, etc) shall also be addressed within the Charter and you are more than welcome to offer suggestions since it is still being drafted. The Empress Consort would be given no powers whatsoever in the new Myakka but sbe would be allowed to voice any opinions you have about certain issues since, my love, I could not bear to let you think of me as a chauvinist or of Myakka as ignorant of the rights of women."

Lihua was stunned at the beauty of the private room. It was not simply the opulence of the decor that amazed her, but rather the small, intimate touches that Gaspard himself had undertaken. The roses, drawings, and wine, were all things that brought back slight memories of their most cherished moments together over the past days. She began to tear up slightly as she thought of the man Gaspard was. Someone so strong as to lead an entire nation, yet also someone so sweet and gentle so to remember the smallest details of the pleasures they had shared. "Gaspard....it's simply amazing."

As they began to get further into the meal, Gaspard slowly turned towards the more serious matters affecting their future together, namely the ongoing crisis in Myakka. She noticed the slight change in his tone, and the tensing of his body. She realized that something extremely important was coming. He began to speak of his ultimate goal, what would occur once he retook the throne. His first spoke of what was needed in his country, a pardoning of the troops. "Gaspard, I think the plan to pardon the soldiers is an excellent idea. You have great insight into the plight of the common people, as it is most likely true that they are not bound to the ideology. You know what your nation needs at this time, healing."

With his next point, she was even more surprised. He wished to do away with the absolute monarchy. "But, doesn't that power represent all that you believe in, the wishes of your father, and strength that you have? I know you have the will to rule your nation as a benevolent and wise ruler." She wasn't sure how to deal with this announcement, but she also realized that constitutions had done wonders for other nations, and despite her doubts, she knew that she could trust his judgment. "I'm sorry for that outburst, you are probably right, it is best to at least hear the will of your people." She was more pleased as she heard the limits their would be on "democratic excess."

He then turned to another item, human rights. He was quite vague, and spoke in wide terms about ensuring certain rights. She was pleased he mentioned children's rights and women's rights. "I'm quite glad[you are interested in human's rights, and I'd be quite glad to add a woman's touch to that charter, although I wouldn't want to overstep any boundaries."

Gaspard laughed a little. "I would not mind it at all if Jon and Esther fell in love like we did since I know she is a responsible and trustworthy woman and I know that she would be able to handle her relationships with care. I also think that Jon would be a good man for her but then again it is her choice alone to make. I would not mind it if she ended up retiring from her post to live with Jon in Mephras because I am sure that we could keep in touch. She's a close friend of mine and was one of my father during that revolution led by those knaves and curs. She told me all about the Fall of Marianopolis when she came to me from the refugee ship and I hired her immediately as my own secretary and since then she has served me faithfully and I hope to retain her as my secretary until I end up in the Crypt although I'd understand if I would have to adjust to another woman."

She laughed slightly at the mention of Jon and Esther. After she had spent her first night with Gaspard, he had told her how his night had went, and about how he and Esther had decided for the time being to just be friends. She remembered how she was very businesslike, even when he tried to "put the moves" on her. "I would certainly not mind if the two became closer, although from what I hear, their relationship seems to be more one of mutual respect and friendship than anything else." At the mention of her being by his side, along with Lihua herself, she became ever more intrigued. "I certainly understand that having such a wise councilor by your side would be invaluable, and I hope that god willing, I too would be able to give you counsel of equal worth. But he hadn't really proposed yet, so what did he mean about her being by his side. Was it coming? She hoped in her heart, but did not want to jump to quickly.

Gaspard smiled and felt the metaphorical twitching again for a while. "Lihua, it is my hope that Myakka can one day be brought back to what it once was and that I will assume my rightful place as the Emperor although I don't consider that to be the most important thing in life. If I had you, at least, and was not Emperor then I'd have compensation for the inability to honor my blood right. Lihua, my love, if I am coronated.....I'd pray for you to be at my side."

Again she was somewhat confused by what he was saying. It was if with every word he was leading her toward a proposal of marriage, yet at the same time the words seem to not want to flow from his mouth. She was on the verge of such great happiness, but at the same time becoming more concerned. Is there a problem, is he too afraid of the danger that might meet us in Myakka. She realized that she had to speak. "My love, I would give anything to be by your side at the coronation. I fear nothing of the future, whatever dangers may lie in Myakka, I do not care, for with you by my side, I can do anything."

Once dessert had been finished, Gaspard took out the box from his pocket and walked towards Lihua with a smile upon his face. Standing in front of her, he bowed and then went on one knee with the box in his hand; flipping it open to reveal the ring that would only be worn by members of royal families. He began to speak in a refined tone of voice: "Lihua Mian, since the first day we met I have been interested in thee and since our first carnal engagement had I been obsessed with thy gorgeous image and I have been unable to get you out of my head. You are the most beautiful woman in the entire world and I cannot bear to be without you so I, a humble soul, must beg thee for the answer to this question: Will you marry me?"

Despite the fears of the past few minutes, her greatest dream had come true, as a gorgeous and glittering ring was unveiled before her. "Oh Gaspard, it is gorgeous, of course I want to marry you. I have been dreaming about this moment ever since we first met. I have never been as happy as I am with you. You have really changed my life, and I want to be with you for the rest of my life." She jumped from her seat to embrace Gaspard, kissing him passionately. Everything had gone as she had wished up to this point. She had finally found someone who she loved. Yet she knew that this was really only the beginning of a bright, yet possibly scary future. Yet she would stand by his side, through any battle or crisis that might occur. In her heart, she knew that the bond of their love would survive anything.

As Gaspard greeted her, she stared straight into his dark eyes. It was such a delight to see him once again, even if it had only been a few hours, it seemed as days. She met his kiss with another, and began to reply. "No, my love, it is truly my pleasure to be able to be with you once again. To have met you, to be with you, is my greatest joy."

Gaspard smiled. "It is simply a pleasure to think about you, Lihua, and I must say that you look absolutely stunning tonight but, then again, you look gorgeous every day and night. You really look amazing, Lihua, and I must say that I would not be surprised if other men had dreamt of you long before we met....but I'm lucky in that you have chosen me other them and I'm sure they'd be jealous. After all, you are the most beautiful woman I have ever seen."

Lihua was stunned at the beauty of the private room. It was not simply the opulence of the decor that amazed her, but rather the small, intimate touches that Gaspard himself had undertaken. The roses, drawings, and wine, were all things that brought back slight memories of their most cherished moments together over the past days. She began to tear up slightly as she thought of the man Gaspard was. Someone so strong as to lead an entire nation, yet also someone so sweet and gentle so to remember the smallest details of the pleasures they had shared. "Gaspard....it's simply amazing."

"I am glad that you like the room I secured for us here tonight; I put all sorts of personal touches to make it look aesthetically presentable and to give it a simple aura of romance for our special night. After all, all dinners like this must have that aura for the essence of romantic dinners is the aura of romance."

As they began to get further into the meal, Gaspard slowly turned towards the more serious matters affecting their future together, namely the ongoing crisis in Myakka. She noticed the slight change in his tone, and the tensing of his body. She realized that something extremely important was coming. He began to speak of his ultimate goal, what would occur once he retook the throne. His first spoke of what was needed in his country, a pardoning of the troops. "Gaspard, I think the plan to pardon the soldiers is an excellent idea. You have great insight into the plight of the common people, as it is most likely true that they are not bound to the ideology. You know what your nation needs at this time, healing."

Gaspard smiled. "I shall not, though, pardon the soldiers who truly believe in the tenets of Communism nor shall I allow them to continue fighting when peace has been restored to the masses of my beloved homeland. Anyone who fights us must be ruthlessly crushed. Healing shall begin once everything has fallen into place. The Government-in-Exile which I lead shall work for the common good of all Myakkans."

With his next point, she was even more surprised. He wished to do away with the absolute monarchy. "But, doesn't that power represent all that you believe in, the wishes of your father, and strength that you have? I know you have the will to rule your nation as a benevolent and wise ruler." She wasn't sure how to deal with this announcement, but she also realized that constitutions had done wonders for other nations, and despite her doubts, she knew that she could trust his judgment. "I'm sorry for that outburst, you are probably right, it is best to at least hear the will of your people." She was more pleased as she heard the limits their would be on "democratic excess."

Gaspard chuckled. "I don't mind your little outburst, Lihua. The reason that I wish to do away with absolutism is because it is essential, to me, that the new Myakka involve the people more than the old Myakka which was destroyed so that they will feel secure and not contemplate treason and the like. My father strove not to maintain absolutism but rather a strong government which could support peace but he was, in all ways, a true absolutist. I feel that we can function just as well as we did before as a constitutional monarchy all the same...and I'll still have significant powers. There shall be a balance of power to make sure everyone is content.

He then turned to another item, human rights. He was quite vague, and spoke in wide terms about ensuring certain rights. She was pleased he mentioned children's rights and women's rights. "I'm quite glad[you are interested in human's rights, and I'd be quite glad to add a woman's touch to that charter, although I wouldn't want to overstep any boundaries."

Gaspard smirked. "I welcome you to add a woman's touch to the Charter and I also welcome you to tell me of any ideas, etc you may have as we eat our food here. Lihua, I want you to speak your mind. I want you to voice your opinions as all women should. If you feel that you don't like a idea or policy of mine then please do tell me about it. I would not mind a debate with the woman I love...and the boundaries would be visible so you would not overstep them."

She laughed slightly at the mention of Jon and Esther. After she had spent her first night with Gaspard, he had told her how his night had went, and about how he and Esther had decided for the time being to just be friends. She remembered how she was very businesslike, even when he tried to "put the moves" on her. [I]"I would certainly not mind if the two became closer, although from what I hear, their relationship seems to be more one of mutual respect and friendship than anything else." At the mention of her being by his side, along with Lihua herself, she became ever more intrigued. "I certainly understand that having such a wise councilor by your side would be invaluable, and I hope that god willing, I too would be able to give you counsel of equal worth. But he hadn't really proposed yet, so what did he mean about her being by his side. Was it coming? She hoped in her heart, but did not want to jump to quickly.

Gaspard smiled. "Esther is the best secretary any politician, monarch or businessman could ask for when he or she is working and I must say that I am glad to hear that she has made a new friend in Jon Bedora whom I find to be quite amiable. As for you being a councillor of mine, nothing would be more sweeter to me. Feel free, as I said, to tell me of your opinions whenever you find the need to do so. Sometimes it's best to listen to others because they may have the answers to questions and solutions to problems that you would have thought to have been unable to deal with."

Again she was somewhat confused by what he was saying. It was if with every word he was leading her toward a proposal of marriage, yet at the same time the words seem to not want to flow from his mouth. She was on the verge of such great happiness, but at the same time becoming more concerned. Is there a problem, is he too afraid of the danger that might meet us in Myakka. She realized that she had to speak. "My love, I would give anything to be by your side at the coronation. I fear nothing of the future, whatever dangers may lie in Myakka, I do not care, for with you by my side, I can do anything."

"Lihua, I must say that it would be a great honor to have you by my side when I should return to Myakka and take the throne as my blood right guarantees to me. With you, my love, I feel content with my life. With you, Lihua, I can do anything as well. Just being with you, just seeing you, even just thinking about you makes me feel like I am the king of the world. Lihua, my true and only love, I must say that you will be at my coronation as an honored guest and I know of many...ways, shall we say, of celebrating my coronation."

Gaspard winked at Lihua with a wicked grin upon his face; wondering if she knew what he meant by his statement about the post-coronation celebrations. Making love to her after the coronation would be a very pleasurable way to start off his reign.

Despite the fears of the past few minutes, her greatest dream had come true, as a gorgeous and glittering ring was unveiled before her. [I]"Oh Gaspard, it is gorgeous, of course I want to marry you. I have been dreaming about this moment ever since we first met. I have never been as happy as I am with you. You have really changed my life, and I want to be with you for the rest of my life." She jumped from her seat to embrace Gaspard, kissing him passionately. Everything had gone as she had wished up to this point. She had finally found someone who she loved. Yet she knew that this was really only the beginning of a bright, yet possibly scary future. Yet she would stand by his side, through any battle or crisis that might occur. In her heart, she knew that the bond of their love would survive anything.

For a moment it felt like Gaspard's heart would literally burst from his chest in celebration of Lihua's acceptance of his proposal of marriage with which he checked off a major part of his mental checklist. He gripped onto the lady hard and embraced her tightly but not so it would hurt. Listening to her words about him really made him smile and invoked similar feelings that he had for her within the depths of his belated soul. Luckily there was no one else in the room so with a wicked grin, he thrusted himself upon her albeit briefly and rose her leg a little to his waist as he kissed her passionately but he stopped after a while and closed with a small squeeze of her bottom and with the wicked grin still upon his face. "You have made me the happiest man alive in the world, Lihua Mian, and since we first met you have made me think about you. I desire nothing more than to be with you for the rest of my life. Ever since we first met, I've thought about you. When we first made love, I was really hooked on you. Thinking about you is like a drug, Lihua, and I'm addicted to it but I never want to go into a rehab clinic. I'm hooked on Lihuahol and I'm proud to be a Lihuaholic!"

Gaspard would have tried to kiss her again but then he felt like such things should be saved for the confines of the manor since he did not want himself and his fiancee to cause a scandal by making out or more in the restaurant's VIP room. "Let us finish up here and then depart for the manor so we can celebrate and plan out our wedding. I've already paid in advance so we can just head off home to finish our night with wedding planning and tender kisses."

Taking her hand, Gaspard led Lihua to his limosuine and helped her inside before he entered to sit quite close beside her as he ordered the chauffer to drive back to the Red Rose Manor. If Lihua noticed, she could probably see his hand on her leg and that it was rubbing it gently and that a wicked grin was still on his face. He then rose the same hand up and put it around her and held her close. "This is one of the greatest days of my life, my love, and we shall remember it until we both die. I promise that you shall never be a sex object to me. People who do that to women are disgusting."

Bumped!

OOC: Sorry, I was on a three day weekend trip

IC: Wife....

The word cycled over and over in Lihua's head. The joy that had overcome her at the proposal by Gaspard flooded over her as she began to truly comprehend what had just happened. She loved Gaspard more than anyone she had ever known, and knew that he would stand by her side for the rest of her life. But with the title of wife would bring something else with it...Empress. Little old me, an empress. It was one thing to win the love of a supportive man, but it was quite a different thing to win the hearts of billion citizens, especially those of a nation she had never visited. She knew Gaspard would always be there for her, and that he would protect her from anyone who didn't like her, but she didn't want to settle for being at best a tolerated or at worst despised empress. After the rush of emotions had finally subsided, this somewhat scary reality set in.

As the limo sped toward the Rose Manor, she suddenly felt herself somewhat selfishly wishing that Gaspard and she could both could stay in Lamoni forever. She would just move into the Red Rose Manor, and they could forget about all of the hardships that were surrounding them. If only life could be that simple. But Gaspard was worth all of that. Nevertheless, she had to face the reality that her life would soon be changed forever. She turned towards the still beaming Gaspard, and began to speak. "Umm, Gaspard, are there many people like me in Myakka? I mean, I trust you to protect and love me, but, will I be accepted by the people there? I mean, I know hardly anything of your country..." She paused, somewhat upset that she had changed the mood in the car, but she had to know.

Despite this small hiccup, she was still extremely excited, and she couldn't wait to get to the Rose Manor to be with Gaspard. It had become like their sanctuary, and every moment she spent their was like a dream. She knew that tomorrow, she would have to begin to pack up her former life and prepare to move on to somewhere else, hopefully Marianopolis. She would have to call Jon, and her family, to explain all that had just happened. They would be surprised, but her father especially would be thrilled with the news that she had "married up in life." She cringed at what her mother would say, all the somewhat unwanted advice she would have lined up, and no doubt the criticism she would have. She would have to say her goodbyes to all the friends at University, and give promises to see them again. It would not be easy, but for tonight, she could forget it all and spend one last peaceful night with the love of her life.

She curled up next to Gaspard in the limo, and turned toward him. "Gaspard, I love you."

OOC: Sorry, I was on a three day weekend trip

OOC: No problem.

As the limo sped toward the Rose Manor, she suddenly felt herself somewhat selfishly wishing that Gaspard and she could both could stay in Lamoni forever. She would just move into the Red Rose Manor, and they could forget about all of the hardships that were surrounding them. If only life could be that simple. But Gaspard was worth all of that. Nevertheless, she had to face the reality that her life would soon be changed forever. She turned towards the still beaming Gaspard, and began to speak. "Umm, Gaspard, are there many people like me in Myakka? I mean, I trust you to protect and love me, but, will I be accepted by the people there? I mean, I know hardly anything of your country..." She paused, somewhat upset that she had changed the mood in the car, but she had to know.

Gaspard put his hand onto Lihua's cheek and smiled reassuringly at her with his eyes looking into her own. "Fiancee, I must say that you will be the only Asian in Myakka and the first Asian ever to set foot in Myakka but know that people will be there for you. I do not care about you being Asian, my love, because I love you for who you are and if people do not like you then we can simply bid them good tidings from our marriage bed. I shall not let anyone take you away from me nor shall I allow myself to take my leave of you...."

Gaspard leaned into Lihua and gave her a tender kiss which could have grown into them making out or even more in the limosuine but Gaspard simply restrained himself by ending the session with a squeeze of her bottom but under her dress. He only meant to be playful. "The Myakkan Empire, my love, is a Calvinist-majority nation with a rich culture and heritage. The only minorities we have are Catholics, Jews and those not devoted to religion. The white race is the only one found in Myakka and be assured that I shall see to it that you are accepted by the masses. Our wedding shall take place in Lamoni and our coronation will take place in St. Mary's Cathedral according to the rites of the Reformed Church of Myakka and we shall proceed to work together for the common good of the Myakkan nation. It will be up to you to bear a child to succeed me when I pass into the afterlife, if one should exist, and I shall make sure that we have an excellent married life and a.....legendary sex life. I would never wish to deprive you of carnal satisfaction. We shall do whatever we can to have good lives."

Despite this small hiccup, she was still extremely excited, and she couldn't wait to get to the Rose Manor to be with Gaspard. It had become like their sanctuary, and every moment she spent their was like a dream. She knew that tomorrow, she would have to begin to pack up her former life and prepare to move on to somewhere else, hopefully Marianopolis. She would have to call Jon, and her family, to explain all that had just happened. They would be surprised, but her father especially would be thrilled with the news that she had "married up in life." She cringed at what her mother would say, all the somewhat unwanted advice she would have lined up, and no doubt the criticism she would have. She would have to say her goodbyes to all the friends at University, and give promises to see them again. It would not be easy, but for tonight, she could forget it all and spend one last peaceful night with the love of her life.

She curled up next to Gaspard in the limo, and turned toward him. "Gaspard, I love you."

"I love you too, Lihua."

Gaspard held Lihua close to him with one hand twirling her hair while another was going under her dress to feel her breasts although that stopped after a while when he noticed they were at the manor. Once they had arrived, Gaspard helped Lihua out of the limosuine and led her into the Red Rose Manor and, when they had entered, he picked her up off the ground and carried her straight to the bedroom. Gaspard felt very happy to be doing this for the lady of his heart. He kicked open the door and gently put the future Empress of Myakka upon the bed before he jumped on her with his hands caressing her feet as he undid her shoes.....tonight would certainly be a pleasurable night.

OOC: Mephras, Lamoni and I both agreed that Gaspard and Lihua can marry in the National Cathedral which I believe is in Nephi. Sound good?

Lihua felt the warm comfort of Gaspard's words as he assured her of the commitment to her happiness, and to her safety in their somewhat tumultous future. "I'm glad, that you're here with me, and I know that together we can make it through anything." However, she was quite surprised to hear about the "diversity" of the Myakkan people. The only Asian person in the country? It was hard for here to believe, coming from a place like Mephras. "In my country, there are so many different shades of people and so many different beliefs, its a bit hard for me to imagine a country without Asians." She paused, realizing that here words might have been improper. "I mean no disrespect to the Myakkan people, but hopefully I can show them, that 'variety is the spice of life,' as they say. But I guess you already know that." She winked coyly.

As the limousine pulled up to the Red Rose Manor, Lihua again kissed Gaspard passionately, as they slowly moved out into the house. As they pushed into the front entryway, still locked in embrace, they bumped into the table in the foyer. Lihua reached blindly for the light switch in the hallway trying to find anything more than the moon to guide them to the bedroom. She continued to grasp Gaspard firmly as she failed to find the switch. Damn it all. She sunk once again into his arms as he lead her to the bedroom. After laying her gently on the bed, they once again embraced.

As his hands moved through her long black hair, she began once again to speak. "So, my dear, how shall the wedding be?" Until now, she hadn't really thought about the specifics involved. She remembered how some of her friends had daydreamed about the specifics of their weddings since they were four, but Lihua had always found such daydreaming to be silly and worthless. Why not think about something more worthwhile, or interesting? But suddenly, those silly things had crept into even her mind. She imagined all the eyes on her as she walked into a beautiful church, wearing hopefully a gorgeous gown. "Everything will be lovely, I hope. Would the marriage take place in a royal chapel, or would it be another private church?" She secretly hoped that the service would be private, at least until the people had learned to love her. Well I guess at least half of the faces in the church will be friendly.

She sighed gently as Gaspard moved to massage her back. After all of the worries she had just shared, the tension in her body fell away. At the same time, her mind began to calm, thinking of his strong arms around her. "My love, I don't carry if we get married on a warship, as long as you are with me." She turned around, and once again embraced Gaspard. They moved together as they were enveloped by their shared passion. The two lovers soon disappeared under the delicate silk sheets of the massive bed, submerged in a shared sea of erotic pleasure.

"I am sure that we can make sure that your life in Myakka satisfactory; there will be some people who loathe your presence and especially your marriage to me but I will not heed them. We shall smite them with kisses and we shall not let them separate us on account of their intolerance. To be honest, I never expected to marry a girl like you but I have no regrets of asking you."

Gaspard felt himself drowning in Lihua's kisses as they went to the bedroom while under the spell of passionate love. It did not take the lovebirds long to reach the chambers with them both cuddling on the comfortable mattress while they caressed and made out. The Emperor did hear Lihua's questions and happened to be on top of her as he answered with his hands holding her down. "We shall marry here in Lamoni's National Cathedral and then be coronated in St. Mary's Cathedral once we arrive in Myakka. We shall both wear the best wedding attire available to us and you shall soon be the first Asian citizen of Myakka. I love you, Lihua Mian....or should I say....Lihua Varan-Mian!"

Gaspard attempted to tear apart her dress playfully while letting her do her work on him and they soon fell into the sea of erotic pleasure and drowned only to find themselves in carnal bliss. Eventually, when all was said and done, Gaspard tightly embraced his love, kissed her one last time, and said softly: "Thank you, Lihua....for coming into my life."

Several weeks later, Lamoni

Lihua stood once again at the airport terminal looking out over the Lamoni shore. As countless tourists and businesspeople moved about, caught up in the flow of the everyday, she moved slowly through, on her own blissful path. Ever since Gaspard's proposal only a few weeks before, her life had been a complete whirlwind. Within hours of their night together after the proposal, she was packing her bags and on a plane back to Mephras. Her phone had been ringing off the hook ever since she had told her mother and best friends. As she had expected, news had traveled fast, and every few minutes, she seemed to get a new call, congratulating her on the engagement, while a few seemed to push for invitations to the wedding itself. They often received a polite refusal, however a certain few were invited to come along.

Among the well wishers was her cousin, the Empress Mei. While she had expected a call, she hadn't expected her request to come to the wedding. After all, didn't she have important things to do as Head of State? Mei brushed off Lihua's objections, asserting that, "Mian's aren't made empresses everyday." Lihua was glad to hear of her interest, and especially glad to hear her blessing and attendance at the wedding. She looked up to Mei, and especially enjoyed her special brand of humor. She had been waiting to tell Gaspard of her attendance, and hoped that he would be okay. Mei could be domineering, but Lihua would assure that this day would be all about her and Gaspard. After all Gaspard was an emperor himself, and he would have to learn diplomacy one way or another.

As she grabbed her bags from the baggage claim, she walked out to attempt to find the car that Gaspard had arranged for her. Unlike last time, Jon had not accompanied her. He was still in Mephras tying up loose ends, one of the hardest of which figuring out how to transport her family to the wedding. Father loves to travel, but mother.... She laughed somewhat cruelly at his misfortune. Poor Jon. While he was not at her side today, he would of course soon be there, and would eventually accompany her to Myakka. They had talked for a good six hours a few days after the proposal, trying to figure out where he fit in to her new life. They had decided he would stay by her side, something that had made her quite happy.

As the sliding glass doors of the terminal moved silently open, Lihua stepped out into the warm Lamoni sun. The feel of it's gentle heat reminded her instantly of Gaspard. She reached into her purse to grab her sunglasses, and as she placed them on her eyes, she began to search for her ride.

Gaspard XX stood at the gate of the Red Rose Manor while his sister talked about how she never expected him to find himself a Chinese woman to be his wife and how it was similar to her marrying a Dutch man. Princess Deborah was a sweet girl, Gaspard thought, and she didn't seem like the kind of girl who would have opposed him bringing non white blood into the family; rather she simply would comment on how it was all great but unexpected. She was quite the lovely woman with exquisite facial and bodily features and could have been considered a rival to Lihua but Gaspard would never cheat on his fiancee with his own sister because that was something no royalty ever did. The Lady Deborah embraced her older brother and smiled at him. "Make sure you treat her well." It was well known that before the younger sister and brother came into existence, the Imperial Palace was commandered by Gaspard and Deborah who, in Palace slang, were referred to as Gasp and Deb by their affectionate parents. Gaspard sent a limosuine straight to the airport to fetch Lihua while he waited at the Manor with his sister who had wanted to meet Lihua and get to know more the woman who would marry her older brother. His other siblings, Prince Lucian and Princess Adra, were dressed in their finest clothes since Gaspard wanted everyone to meet Lihua today and get to know the future Empress Consort. Adra, in particular, had woven up a bouquet for Gaspard to give to his fiancee while Lucian simply watched in awe and silent support.

The ministers of the Government-in-Exile also were supportive of the marriage since it had solved any possible future problems of Gaspard not finding a woman to impregnate for the sake of the Imperial Family's future. They did not know that it was unlikely Lihua was pregnant at the time because not only did they not know she went all the way more than one with their liege but that they also resorted to certain measures to prevent untimed conceptions. After all, even royalty needed to learn these things. Every minister as well as Esther were dressed in their finest clothes; and some people were trying to ask Esther about Lihua although she simply told them to just wait and see. The chauffer, as well, knew about Lihua from his own conversation with Gaspard and knew that he must have loved her very much to the point of obsession. The chauffer did not spend much time finding Lihua because she was not hard to miss. He rushed out of the limosuine, bowed respectfully, and smiled. "Your Highness, I am here on His Majesty's order to take you to the Red Rose Manor; he wishes for you not only to talk to him but to meet members of his family and his ministers."

The chauffer let Lihua into the limosuine and then began to talk to her as they drove. "Gaspard told me just before I left that he is literally addicted and indeed obsessed with you. He's told me that you are a woman beyond reproach and that you may be a fallen angel....of virtue, of course. He's simply so happy that you chose him out of all others and prays for a lifelong marriage built on strong foundations. We'll be at the palace soon so until then just relax."

das bump!

As Lihua turned to greet the chauffeur, she couldn't help but chuckle as he began to speak. Even the chauffeur. She knew that Gaspard loved her, but at some times, she thought even his love was a bit extreme, if not overbearing, but it was his dogged determination and devotion which had first won her heart, and she knew that it was all out of love. She smiled politely at the driver, and spoke. "Thank you for the information, now please drive me to the manor, I can't wait to see him again." It was true, she was extremely excited to see Gaspard again, and as the car pulled closer, she looked for the gabled roof of the manor, knowing that Gaspard would soon in her sight.

As the car pulled up to the door, her heart lept as she saw Gaspard. She wanted to open the car door and run up to him as soon as she saw his face, yet seconds later her feeling was crushed as she saw another figure next to him. Even more, it was a woman, and a beautiful one at that. She had lovely European features, and was quite striking. However, Lihua seconds later realized that this woman was nothing to fear, as closer inspection revealed certain features she had in common with her own fiancee. She was most likely a relative of some sort. "Damn, I guess I should be on my best behavior." She decided that she should attempt to look "imperial," at least for this mystery lady.

As the car stopped and the chauffeur opened the door, Lihua stepped slowly out of the car. She walked towards the two standing next to the door. She bowed chastely to Gaspard, and began to speak. "My lord, it is my greatest joy to be in your presence once again." She couldn't belief the sappy artifice dripping from her mouth, and shot Gaspard a wink as she finished. She then turned to the woman, bowed again, and spoke. "I don't believe I have had the pleasure of meeting you before, my lady, I am Lihua Mian, of Mephras. Might I ask your name?"

Gaspard smiled when he finally laid his eyes upon the coming limosuine while Deborah stood stoically beside her beloved brother in anticipation since she had been quite interested in seeing this woman who Gaspard talked to her about recently with all the praises and compliments recited in a proud tone. Deborah could tell that he was madly in love and knew it was just like her own marriage to that Dutch aristocrat's son who she was always thinking about whenever he was off on some venture. When Lihua had gotten out of the limosuine with the chauffer at her side, Deborah began to study her in amazement. She knew that Lihua was not European like she was but it was still shocking to see this Chinese woman who would soon be married to her brother; she was not a racist but was just shocked like many people were. Gaspard gave Lihua a tender kiss and a quick embrace with a smile upon his face. "It is always a pleasure to see you, Lihua, and even to think about you is a pleasurable act I do enjoy much."

Deborah smiled at Lihua with a look that suggested immediate acceptance mixed with amazement. "My name is Deborah Varan-Van Holdt and I am one of Gaspard's three siblings. He has told me much about you and it's quite nice to finally be able to meet you; I've heard that you will be marrying my brother soon. I'm hopeful you two at least get along well. I myself am married to the son of a Dutchman and I have wonderful children along with an excellent husband."

The three walked through the gates of the Red Rose Manor where snacks and light beverages were waiting to be consumed by them over discussions about love and marriage. Deborah seemed quite happy in Lihua's presence and did not seem to raise any concerns about any plans for her brother to marry the Chinese woman. When they entered the Red Rose Manor amidst a small crowd of people who immediately bowed to the royal trinity before dispersing, they found their way to what looked like a patio which conviently was where a maid happened to be standing as if she knew they would be coming and when they had all taken their seats, the maid smiled and simply asked. "Would any of you like some snacks? Beverages?"

Lihua couldn't resist but kiss Gaspard as she stood next to him. "My love, it has really been to long. Hopefully this shall be the last time that we are apart for such a long time."

Lihua noticed the slight look of amazement in Deborah's eyes as she emerged from the car and greeted her. At first, she felt somewhat offended, but then remembered what Gaspard had said about the homogeneity of the populace of Myakka. This concern turned immediately to joy as she was warmly greeted by Deborah. "Thank you for your kind words. It is extremely nice to know that Gaspard has such kind siblings as yourself. I hope that in the future we shall view each other as sisters." She smiled warmly as she continued. "So you, like your brother married into a foreign family. I assure you, that despite any fears you might have, I am completely devoted to both your brother, and to supporting the constitutional monarchy of Myakka." Deborah seemed to be a woman with a kind heart, just like Gaspard, and she felt an instant bond with his sister.

After the pleasantries were exchanged, the trio moved into the house. As Gaspard opened the door, once again her mind whirled as memories flew into her head. The distinct and pleasant smell of the manor, along with its decor and architecture, all brought back memories of their encounters. A small table near the window of the drawing room transported her back to one rainy morning when they shared a late breakfast. As usual, it was full of laughs, and she couldn't help but chuckle in the present.

They moved onto a small patio, which gave them a lovely view of the Lamoni coast, which had served as the beautiful backdrop to pretty much their entire courtship. "It is great to be once again in this beautiful country, but I must say, I cannot wait until I can visit your Myakka, Gaspard has told me stories, but I'm sure that even the best words cannot truly do the landscapes justice." She noticed all of the gorgeous foods that were laid out for the three of them, and continued to speak. "This is lovely, my dear, just as I'm sure our wedding shall be. Speaking of the wedding, my family is getting on a plane in a few hours and shall soon be in Lamoni. How go the preparations for our big day?"

Lihua couldn't resist but kiss Gaspard as she stood next to him. "My love, it has really been to long. Hopefully this shall be the last time that we are apart for such a long time."

Gaspard smiled. "I am sure we shall be closer together in the next sets of days that come towards us; even if I must spend much of my time focused on the work that lies ahead concerning Myakka. What time I have left is for the wedding and for the contemplation of my love for you, Lihua."

Lihua noticed the slight look of amazement in Deborah's eyes as she emerged from the car and greeted her. At first, she felt somewhat offended, but then remembered what Gaspard had said about the homogeneity of the populace of Myakka. This concern turned immediately to joy as she was warmly greeted by Deborah. "Thank you for your kind words. It is extremely nice to know that Gaspard has such kind siblings as yourself. I hope that in the future we shall view each other as sisters." She smiled warmly as she continued. "So you, like your brother married into a foreign family. I assure you, that despite any fears you might have, I am completely devoted to both your brother, and to supporting the constitutional monarchy of Myakka." Deborah seemed to be a woman with a kind heart, just like Gaspard, and she felt an instant bond with his sister.

Deborah smiled. "I must say that I thank you for the kind compliment and hopefully we shall be good friends. I wouldn't say my husband is a foreign man save for the fact that he is a full blooded Dutchman but I love him regardless of that. He's always been there for me and the kids and he's very charming too. One should always be thankful for people like him. If you are not, you may find that they have simply....vanished."

They moved onto a small patio, which gave them a lovely view of the Lamoni coast, which had served as the beautiful backdrop to pretty much their entire courtship. "It is great to be once again in this beautiful country, but I must say, I cannot wait until I can visit your Myakka, Gaspard has told me stories, but I'm sure that even the best words cannot truly do the landscapes justice." She noticed all of the gorgeous foods that were laid out for the three of them, and continued to speak. "This is lovely, my dear, just as I'm sure our wedding shall be. Speaking of the wedding, my family is getting on a plane in a few hours and shall soon be in Lamoni. How go the preparations for our big day?"

"Gaspard must have already told you about what to expect so I won't repeat any of that to you through my own words. I must say that I do hope you'll have a good time in Myakka and hopefully you'll find enough information to keep yourself stable. Foreign consorts should learn as much about the land they will be living in as is humanely possible. I didn't have that trouble with my husband because he was living in Myakka ever since he was born. He was the descendant of one of many Dutch settlers who came to Myakka centuries ago but his family became aristocrats unlike others; aristocrats through wealth and service rather than by blood. I can still remember when I first laid my eyes upon him. That day was one of the best days in my life."

Deborah smiled before Gaspard began to speak. "It would be a pleasurable honor to meet the parents who were blessed to have you as their child, Lihua, and to host them here at the Red Rose Manor which the Lamonian Government was so generous to give us. Everything concerning the wedding is set and all we need do is wait for the day; I've already got everything dealt with but you will need to go for some dress fittings and what not. You should really think about what kind of dress you'd like to wear during the wedding. I still remember when I attended Deb's wedding; she wore a dress that was typical of royal weddings but yet still was amazing to behold. Her husband thought that as well....."

Deborah grinned as she remembered the comments that her husband would make concerning her appearance in and out of the wedding dress; he was one of those outgoing types who never ceased to praise and to love. He was a dream man, that is, a man many women dreamed about. He was always a sight to behold. "My husband is currently in Lamoni with my children, Lihua, and I think he may be interested in seeing you. I can arrange a meeting with him tonight for you since my family and I will be having dinner here tonight with Gaspard. The Red Rose Manor is usually where we stay since it's spacious enough to accomodate many people including children. I do not know, though, if we will still own it after a successful Restoration in Myakka...but I don't know if it will be successful. Gaspard tells me Lucian Paras is a capable man but I don't know, sometimes, if it will all work out...."

Gaspard smiled and spoke some words softly to Deborah in the Myakkan language that reminded her of how loving a brother he had been to her for so many years. Although at first Gaspard was a tad hesitant to be close to little Debbie as the parents would call her, he soon found himself at her side with medicine and toys. They eventually became a close couple and acted like tutors and the cool kids when it came to helping out their two younger siblings who, themselves, lived in the Red Rose Manor as well. Deborah simply replied in a soft tone of voice, in the Myakkan language, that Gaspard was still the loving brother she had always known him to be. Gaspard was that kind of man. Loving, caring, ruthless and at times satirical. Deborah looked at Lihua and smiled. "Lihua....do you have any plans for the future?"

Lihua was quite glad to hear the kind words of Deborah, however, as she spoke about cherishing those who are most important, she remembered immediately the hardship that she and her husband must have faced in the ongoing crisis in Myakka. "Gaspard has told me about some of the hardship that your family and your people have suffered under the 'revolutionaries' in your nation. I hope you know that I despise them as much as you do, and hope that the sorrow that has befallen your country shall find a quick end. I admire your courage in such a horrible situation."

As she munched on a cucumber sandwich, she listened closely to her advice on being a foreign consort. She was glad that her first concern was to enjoy her life, something that she had initially feared in becoming such a figurehead. "I know that I'm quite green when it comes to Myakka, but I pledge to do all in my power to be a good empress. I will pour all of my energy into learning anything I can about Myakka. Mephras, my homeland, is a place where many cultures meet, so I know I can embrace Myakka, and hopefully bring something new to the table."

As they moved on to the subject of the wedding. Lihua was overjoyed to hear that all of the preparations were going. As Gaspard spoke about fittings for a dress, her eyes lit up. "I'm really excited to find the perfect dress. I've heard that Lamoni has many good designers who no doubt will be able to fit a great dress for me. I would love it if you, Deborah, could accompany me tomorrow as I go shopping. I've found that many opinions are better than one." Lihua hoped that apart from finding the perfect dress, tomorrow would allow the two to bond a bit more. Lihua had always enjoyed shopping, and hoped Deborah would too.

After Lihua spoke about the coming arrival of her family, she was pleased to hear that Deborah too had a family. " I would love to meet your entire family soon. The Red Rose Manor is quite an exceptional building, it is both beautiful and spacious, I am glad that you too have a love of this place. Of course, I'm sure it isn't quite as beautiful as your home in Myakka, but hopefully you will so be there once again." She turned to Gaspard, and continued. "My mother and father shall be here soon, but I'm excited that my cousin, the Empress Mei, shall also soon be here for the wedding. I can't wait till you both can meet her, she is quite charismatic and well liked by the people. She is anxious for the wedding."

As the brother and sister began to speak, in what she could only guess was Myakkan, worries again arose over learning the native tongue. It was a lovely language with a good flow, but she figured she would have some difficulty in learning it. As Deborah asked about her goals, she gave only a quick reply. "I have goals, like any other person, however finding your brother has seriously altered many of my plans. I have never been happier in my life, and my focus right now is loving my fiancee and learning to be a good consort and steward for the Myakkan people. I have always loved reading though, and hope that I can bring some of that love to Myakka as well. How about yourself?"

Lihua was quite glad to hear the kind words of Deborah, however, as she spoke about cherishing those who are most important, she remembered immediately the hardship that she and her husband must have faced in the ongoing crisis in Myakka. "Gaspard has told me about some of the hardship that your family and your people have suffered under the 'revolutionaries' in your nation. I hope you know that I despise them as much as you do, and hope that the sorrow that has befallen your country shall find a quick end. I admire your courage in such a horrible situation."

Deborah sighed. "We faced many hardships back in Myakka before we were able to escape them via the secret networks established by Monarchist spies and proud supporters. I was never expecting to wake up one morning to hear that there was a revolution nor those student riots. None of that ever came to mind, Lihua, none of it came to anyone's minds for we were all under the assumption that nothing of such horrid magnitude would occur in Myakka. I've always prayed for the restoration of peace in Myakka and at times I would stay up late at night, look out at the moon and the stars, and just think about it all. The suffering, the bloodshed, the cries, the end."

Deborah looked down at her sandwich as in both in deep thought mixed with a horrible sadness one feels when a loved one has vanished into the next world. She felt as if she was reliving the time when she had to leave her home with her family only to hear that it was ransacked by the Communists and turned into a military headquarters. She remembered hearing the cries of her children and the gentle words of support from her husband who was always there to help whenever she requested. The visions of her nights in old run down houses and barracks of loyal soldiers haunted her mind then, but only briefly, before she came back into reality and gazed upon Lihua. "....Soon it will all end...and soon we can all return to our homes."

Gaspard sensed his sister's discomfort and whispered some words in her ear in the Myakkan language which made her smile a little. He then whispered to Lihua: "Sometimes...Deborah gets depressed when she thinks about the chaos back home."

As she munched on a cucumber sandwich, she listened closely to her advice on being a foreign consort. She was glad that her first concern was to enjoy her life, something that she had initially feared in becoming such a figurehead. "I know that I'm quite green when it comes to Myakka, but I pledge to do all in my power to be a good empress. I will pour all of my energy into learning anything I can about Myakka. Mephras, my homeland, is a place where many cultures meet, so I know I can embrace Myakka, and hopefully bring something new to the table."

Gaspard smiled. "As long as you are a good empress and a loyal wife, my love, I have no reason to groom you into someone you wouldn't be without my involvement. I am sure, though, you will be both of those. The Myakkan nation shall be restored to peace, we shall reign over it, and everyone will be pleased. That is all I would want. That is all I desire Fortune to bestow upon me. That is all...there's nothing else I want but you, Lihua....and Myakka."

As they moved on to the subject of the wedding. Lihua was overjoyed to hear that all of the preparations were going. As Gaspard spoke about fittings for a dress, her eyes lit up. "I'm really excited to find the perfect dress. I've heard that Lamoni has many good designers who no doubt will be able to fit a great dress for me. I would love it if you, Deborah, could accompany me tomorrow as I go shopping. I've found that many opinions are better than one." Lihua hoped that apart from finding the perfect dress, tomorrow would allow the two to bond a bit more. Lihua had always enjoyed shopping, and hoped Deborah would too.

Whenever Deborah would be involved in conversations relating to marriage and how to plan and execute the best wedding one could have on a solid budget, she would remember not only her own marriage but the advice her mother gave her when she was around the age of fourteen, that is, back when Myakka was the obscure and peaceful island not many people could talk about without having to go through some studying about it. Deborah found herself, while Gaspard and Lihua talked, in one of her many childhood memories in which she could see herself in the frame of her fourteen year old self looking upon a younger version of her beloved mother who was dressed in one of her many formal dresses. It was the night of her wedding anniversary and she was going to go out with Gaspard's father, also named Gaspard in accordance with national tradition, to celebrate and have some alone time at one of the royal resorts. Deborah stood there in her night clothes which was really just a very expensive nightgown that covered up to her ankles while her hair was let down and it was possible to see her little crescent moon necklace that she often wore back then. She came somewhat late, though, into the memory and it started, for her, when she heard her mother say: "You should strive to find the best man possible, Deborah."

Since they were in the private chambers of the Empress, her mother, Deborah began to look at the old pictures her mother had of herself with Gaspard at various places including charity galas and resorts with friends. There was a picture of her with him when they were students and there was a letter of love Gaspard wrote to her in years long gone which said: "There's nothing more pleasing then to think about you....even spelling your name fills me with an unexplainable happiness."

She looked at her mother who was busy trying to hook her earrings to her ears and she smiled as she reread those words from the letter in her mind which filled her with the desire to find a man who was like the young Gaspard, the younger form of her father, who at this time was busy pacing around near the entrance to the palace with his mind set on how he would show the love of his life a good night. "How do I find the best man, mother?"

The Empress looked at Deborah and patted her head affectionately before speaking. "You can find the best man merely by looking hard enough. Just look and you'll see him in the horizon. You'll find him in the place where you least expect."

Deborah's face brightened up with daughterly affection before she heard the voice of her father who had his hands dug in the pockets of his tuxedo and who looked both rather stoic and carefree. "Lovely ladies, I'm sorry to bust into your conversation but I require one of you...."

The Empress gave Gaspard a quick kiss and he looked at Deborah while taking his wife's hand firmly into his own. "Behave, Deborah....and make sure the others do as well. I'll have your governess around to help you out with that and I expect a good report."

"Yes, Father....have fun!"

Deborah suddenly felt a sharp nudge which thrusted her into reality and only to see that Gaspard was trying to get her attention since Lihua was trying to talk to her; she felt embarrased that she drifted off into her memories but she wasn't ashamed of it. "I can go shopping with you, Lihua, I believe I have enough free time for that. Just tell me when you'd like to go and we'll be on our way to the nearest and best shop in town."

After Lihua spoke about the coming arrival of her family, she was pleased to hear that Deborah too had a family. " I would love to meet your entire family soon. The Red Rose Manor is quite an exceptional building, it is both beautiful and spacious, I am glad that you too have a love of this place. Of course, I'm sure it isn't quite as beautiful as your home in Myakka, but hopefully you will so be there once again." She turned to Gaspard, and continued. "My mother and father shall be here soon, but I'm excited that my cousin, the Empress Mei, shall also soon be here for the wedding. I can't wait till you both can meet her, she is quite charismatic and well liked by the people. She is anxious for the wedding."

Gaspard smiled. "To meet Empress Mei would be quite the honor but it really wouldn'r make me feel all limp legged because we are both in the same station but it does make me feel anxious to see her and to discuss whatever comes to my mind with the cousin of the world's most beautiful woman. As for your parents, blessed art they on account of your birth, I would enjoy talking to them. Deborah's family will be attending the wedding so you'll be able to see her husband, Martin Van Holdt. He's a rather amiable fellow who you'll be good friends with in only a short while."

Before Deborah could respond to this comment, he could hear the voice of a familiar friend from behind him which had a bit of a Dutch accent upon it but not too much. Standing behind the three at the patio was a man in nothing more than simple but modest clothes with Deborah's face brightening up with passion as she gazed upon him. She rushed to him and hugged him as he greeted her in the Dutch language but she noticed his eyes were fixed on Lihua. Martin Van Holdt was amazed by Lihua. She wasn't white like him, she wasn't certainly a Myakkan, and she wasn't a person he knew; rather she was like a stranger, an outsider, simply someone unknown. He simply smiled and shook Gaspard's hand as he spoke. "It's great to see you, Gaspard. I see you are entertaining my wife and your....fiancee."

Martin looked at Lihua again and smiled with a look that suggested acceptance mixed with the amazement he first had when he was told of Gaspard's proposal of marriage to that non white woman from Mephras. "My name is Martin Van Holdt, Lihua, and I am quite happy to finally be meeting you. I must say I'm still amazed at the prospect of Gaspard marrying you but don't think I'm a racist. Far from it, I can see why he chose you."

Martin winked and then wrapped his arm around Deborah as if she were a trophy he just won and then, in a proud and heroic pose, he began to shout at the top of his lungs. "Thou may be pretty but Lady Deborah is the world's most beautiful woman! I have beaten you, Gaspard!"

He then calmed down and took his seat with his one arm resting on the table while the other fondled a glass of some clear liquid. His eyes of blue were like miniature oceans in a white case while he was certainly a handsome man; nearly a rival to Gaspard and a possible temptation for Lihua although, if she did pursue anything with him, Deborah would have assumed the position of a berserk Norse warrior with the intent of hacking someone to bits with a battle axe. Martin looked more like a simple man who was royalty by marriage but didn't seem to have taken up a new lifestyle, that is, the life of a snobbish and uptight royal or a royal who looked down upon those of lesser status. Martin turned his attention to Lihua again and smiled. "You are quite the looker, Lihua, and quite exotic but I never expected my good friend to have chosen a woman of your...race to be his consort. All previous consorts were white Myakkans and none of us would have ever dreamed of changing that but here we are! Don't think I dislike you on account of skin color, Lihua....I like you regardless but if you give me a reason to dislike you....I'll pursue it ruthlessly."

Martin chuckled with some words uttered in Dutch before looking back at Lihua. "How has your time with Gaspard been so far, Lihua? Surely you two have had pleasurable encounters? I can still remember what it was like and Deborah....the times we had!"

As the brother and sister began to speak, in what she could only guess was Myakkan, worries again arose over learning the native tongue. It was a lovely language with a good flow, but she figured she would have some difficulty in learning it. As Deborah asked about her goals, she gave only a quick reply. "I have goals, like any other person, however finding your brother has seriously altered many of my plans. I have never been happier in my life, and my focus right now is loving my fiancee and learning to be a good consort and steward for the Myakkan people. I have always loved reading though, and hope that I can bring some of that love to Myakka as well. How about yourself?"

Gaspard was intrigued as Lihua was talking about her goals. "What were your plans before we met, Lihua....what did you have in mind for doing before you met me?"

Deborah simply smiled. "I have many goals and interests but they rise to great heights and fall into deep obscurity from time to time. One of my interests would be spending time with my family and friends while another is learning; for the cultivation of knowledge is something we should be doing. Knowledge is as beneficial to society as is virtue."

Gaspard sensed his sister's discomfort and whispered some words in her ear in the Myakkan language which made her smile a little. He then whispered to Lihua: "Sometimes...Deborah gets depressed when she thinks about the chaos back home."

Lihua was somewhat embarrassed after she too had noticed the pain that crossed her face. "I'm sorry that I brought that up, I was foolish to talk so freely of such sorrows." She hoped that all would be soon forgotten, and they could return to their pleasantries. In her heart, she hoped that they could all finally move on, Deborah, Gaspard, and Myakka....move onto a new age of happiness and prosperity,and she only hoped that she could be a part of this new age. For the near future, she would monitor her words more closely, although she hoped that they could still become close friends.

Gaspard smiled. "As long as you are a good empress and a loyal wife, my love, I have no reason to groom you into someone you wouldn't be without my involvement. I am sure, though, you will be both of those. The Myakkan nation shall be restored to peace, we shall reign over it, and everyone will be pleased. That is all I would want. That is all I desire Fortune to bestow upon me. That is all...there's nothing else I want but you, Lihua....and Myakka."

She was glad to hear the words of her fiancee. The confidence in his voice had always calmed her when she was afraid, and this time was no exception. "I have no fears about our future, and I know that soon there shall be peace in Myakka for all of us. I only hope that I can have a part in this future." As she took a sip of the tea before her, visions appeared in her head of this future, happy people everywhere, hoping for a bright future, with a brave emperor to guide them. A warm smile appeared on her face as they continued to speak.

Deborah suddenly felt a sharp nudge which thrusted her into reality and only to see that Gaspard was trying to get her attention since Lihua was trying to talk to her; she felt embarrased that she drifted off into her memories but she wasn't ashamed of it. "I can go shopping with you, Lihua, I believe I have enough free time for that. Just tell me when you'd like to go and we'll be on our way to the nearest and best shop in town."

Lihua had noticed the blank stare on her face as she spoke about the dress, but was pleased that she had agreed to help her find a dress. "I am extremely glad to hear that, I must confess that I'm not really stylish, so I hope you can really help me find something great." It was true. All of her friends called her a jeans and t-shirt person, and sure enough, most days she just dressed in jeans and a t-shirt. These past few days had been a test of her will, as dressing nicely to meet Gaspard's family had seriously stretched her taste, and her closet.

Gaspard smiled. "To meet Empress Mei would be quite the honor but it really wouldn'r make me feel all limp legged because we are both in the same station but it does make me feel anxious to see her and to discuss whatever comes to my mind with the cousin of the world's most beautiful woman. As for your parents, blessed art they on account of your birth, I would enjoy talking to them. Deborah's family will be attending the wedding so you'll be able to see her husband, Martin Van Holdt. He's a rather amiable fellow who you'll be good friends with in only a short while."

She was glad that he didn't seem worried about meeting the Empress, but Lihua was still somewhat afraid of how Mei would react to a fellow ruler, especially one with as much confidence as she herself had. "Mei is a great woman, she took Mephras from being somewhat of a backwater and has transformed it into an influential power in Nova. The economy has taken off, and people enjoy more freedom than they ever have before. I'm sure you will have much to talk about. As for my parents, they are kind people, if not a bit stubborn at times. If they give you a hard time, don't worry too much about it." She turned to Deborah, and continued. "I am excited to meet your husband, I'm sure that he and I will have plenty to discuss as well.

He then calmed down and took his seat with his one arm resting on the table while the other fondled a glass of some clear liquid. His eyes of blue were like miniature oceans in a white case while he was certainly a handsome man; nearly a rival to Gaspard and a possible temptation for Lihua although, if she did pursue anything with him, Deborah would have assumed the position of a berserk Norse warrior with the intent of hacking someone to bits with a battle axe. Martin looked more like a simple man who was royalty by marriage but didn't seem to have taken up a new lifestyle, that is, the life of a snobbish and uptight royal or a royal who looked down upon those of lesser status. Martin turned his attention to Lihua again and smiled. "You are quite the looker, Lihua, and quite exotic but I never expected my good friend to have chosen a woman of your...race to be his consort. All previous consorts were white Myakkans and none of us would have ever dreamed of changing that but here we are! Don't think I dislike you on account of skin color, Lihua....I like you regardless but if you give me a reason to dislike you....I'll pursue it ruthlessly."

As Martin walked into the room, Lihua was immediately surprised by him. While both Gaspard and Deborah were extremely kind people, they were also extremely careful and conscientious people. They were gentle when they spoke with her. Martin was different, he was loud, and not afraid to make a joke. He still gave off a very warm vibe, but he seemed more willing to fight, more willing to ask questions. His last words sent a slight chill up her back. Up till now, everyone else had seemed to accept her without conditions, but he was different. "Well, I am extremely pleased to meet you. Hopefully there shall never be a time when we shall butt heads. However, I too, am a woman of my convictions, and shall not back down if I believe something is right." She hoped that her words wouldn't be taken the wrong way, but truly wasn't afraid to speak her mind.

Martin chuckled with some words uttered in Dutch before looking back at Lihua. "How has your time with Gaspard been so far, Lihua? Surely you two have had pleasurable encounters? I can still remember what it was like and Deborah....the times we had!"

Lihua was slightly put off by this question. While it was true she had enjoyed her "time" with Gaspard, she had never spoken about it with anyone else, much less with members of his family. She was always very personal about this stuff, but she figured that it was just a little taste of what was to come, being a public figure, much less an empress.

Gaspard was intrigued as Lihua was talking about her goals. "What were your plans before we met, Lihua....what did you have in mind for doing before you met me?"

It was honestly hard for Lihua to remember her life before she had met Gaspard, as it all seemed like a dull, listless blob of time before she laid eyes on Gaspard. "I suppose that I would have simply continued with my university studies. I was planning on pursuing a doctorate degree in History, and I might possibly still try to pursue that here, if it is a possibility. I would love to look deeper into Myakkan history, and also Lamoni history, although most of my studies were focused on Mephrasian and Chinese history. I would love for you to all visit my homeland someday. There are so many things we could see and do."

[Lihua was somewhat embarrassed after she too had noticed the pain that crossed her face. "I'm sorry that I brought that up, I was foolish to talk so freely of such sorrows." She hoped that all would be soon forgotten, and they could return to their pleasantries. In her heart, she hoped that they could all finally move on, Deborah, Gaspard, and Myakka....move onto a new age of happiness and prosperity,and she only hoped that she could be a part of this new age. For the near future, she would monitor her words more closely, although she hoped that they could still become close friends.

Deborah smiled. ".....Your apology is accepted, Lihua. I've tried to move on from it all but sometimes the memories are like stubborn weeds in a garden which take a lot of time to get out of the soil. I'm sure, though, that I will be able to break free of them all soon."

She was glad to hear the words of her fiancee. The confidence in his voice had always calmed her when she was afraid, and this time was no exception. "I have no fears about our future, and I know that soon there shall be peace in Myakka for all of us. I only hope that I can have a part in this future." As she took a sip of the tea before her, visions appeared in her head of this future, happy people everywhere, hoping for a bright future, with a brave emperor to guide them. A warm smile appeared on her face as they continued to speak.

"....You will have a major part in the future of Myakka as my wife, Lihua, so you need not worry about what will take place involving you once the dust settles over a reborn Myakka. The Restoration shall succeed and we shall see the revival of the people take place. Happiness will replace sorrow and life shall smother death."

Lihua had noticed the blank stare on her face as she spoke about the dress, but was pleased that she had agreed to help her find a dress. "I am extremely glad to hear that, I must confess that I'm not really stylish, so I hope you can really help me find something great." It was true. All of her friends called her a jeans and t-shirt person, and sure enough, most days she just dressed in jeans and a t-shirt. These past few days had been a test of her will, as dressing nicely to meet Gaspard's family had seriously stretched her taste, and her closet.

"We'll find a good dress for you, Lihua, and you are more than welcome to tell us what kind of dress you would like to wear for the wedding since the bride's opinions are very important. We can go now, if you want, to get you a dress." Deborah spoke softly as if she were Lihua's sister. "...If you want to get the dress now and not later, that is, then we can go now."

She was glad that he didn't seem worried about meeting the Empress, but Lihua was still somewhat afraid of how Mei would react to a fellow ruler, especially one with as much confidence as she herself had. "Mei is a great woman, she took Mephras from being somewhat of a backwater and has transformed it into an influential power in Nova. The economy has taken off, and people enjoy more freedom than they ever have before. I'm sure you will have much to talk about. As for my parents, they are kind people, if not a bit stubborn at times. If they give you a hard time, don't worry too much about it." She turned to Deborah, and continued. "I am excited to meet your husband, I'm sure that he and I will have plenty to discuss as well.

"....I believe that I will have a good time meeting Mei and your parents; both of whom I am sure are modest and morally upright people who will have no problem accepting our little marriage. You must meet my mother sometime, Lihua....I'm sure she'd probably throw in her support. As for my father....I know not of his continued existence, that is, I know not if he is still alive. The last time I heard from him was when the capital was falling...."

As Martin walked into the room, Lihua was immediately surprised by him. While both Gaspard and Deborah were extremely kind people, they were also extremely careful and conscientious people. They were gentle when they spoke with her. Martin was different, he was loud, and not afraid to make a joke. He still gave off a very warm vibe, but he seemed more willing to fight, more willing to ask questions. His last words sent a slight chill up her back. Up till now, everyone else had seemed to accept her without conditions, but he was different. "Well, I am extremely pleased to meet you. Hopefully there shall never be a time when we shall butt heads. However, I too, am a woman of my convictions, and shall not back down if I believe something is right." She hoped that her words wouldn't be taken the wrong way, but truly wasn't afraid to speak her mind.

Martin smiled. "....I'm sure you are a good and modest woman, Lihua, and I'm sure you will be a good wife for my brother in law; I was only merely shocked that he was marrying a non white is all but I don't really care too much to be honest. Just make sure you keep your vows....we wouldn't want a depressed monarch wandering around in solemn lamentation about how his beloved wife has turned him into a cuckold."

Martin smirked. "...I accept you for who you are, Lihua, and I can only hope that everything goes well for you in your marriage. I'm still thankful that I've got Deb here as my wife, that I've got healthy children, and that my life is so blissful. If you become like me in that aspect, Lihua...always be thankful."



Lihua was slightly put off by this question. While it was true she had enjoyed her "time" with Gaspard, she had never spoken about it with anyone else, much less with members of his family. She was always very personal about this stuff, but she figured that it was just a little taste of what was to come, being a public figure, much less an empress.

Martin sensed a bit of tension and smiled. "...You need not talk about it if you don't want to, Lihua....sometimes it's best to keep certain things in certain places."

It was honestly hard for Lihua to remember her life before she had met Gaspard, as it all seemed like a dull, listless blob of time before she laid eyes on Gaspard. "I suppose that I would have simply continued with my university studies. I was planning on pursuing a doctorate degree in History, and I might possibly still try to pursue that here, if it is a possibility. I would love to look deeper into Myakkan history, and also Lamoni history, although most of my studies were focused on Mephrasian and Chinese history. I would love for you to all visit my homeland someday. There are so many things we could see and do."

Gaspard smiled. "....I do not believe it would be a problem for you to continue your university studies despite our marriage and I am sure you will be able to learn all there is to know about Myakkan history and what not. I will ensure that you have all the education you want, Lihua, because I only want to see you happy and joyful. To see you sad would make me uneasy; to see you not satisfied would make me try everything to make you very satisfied. There are indeed many things that we could do and that I am sure we will do in the days and years to come."

Martin smiled. "Lihua...why don't you tell me and Deb about yourself and some things about Chinese history? There must be more to you that we do not know and I'm sure even Gaspard doesn't know some things. Do you have any religious beliefs? Political? Are you an environmentalist? Tell us, Lihua!"

Bumped.

OOC: Sorry dude, power outage.

IC: Imperial Airfield, Central Mephras

Mei Mian talked quickly with her financial minister, Wesley Saiid as the imperial jet moved slowly out of the hangar. She took a quick gulp from lukewarm cappuccino in her left hand. Both Saiid and she had been up for nearly 48 hours, ever since she had received the call from her cousin Lihua. Soon she would be the Empress of Myakka, a nation in Nova Minor, an area that Mephras saw as a prime target to expand her influence. They had been pouring over every scrap of information they had about the nation, one which they knew was still reeling from the disastrous aftermath of a civil war.

After the picture of the country had begun to take shape, they then began to craft an image of it's future, a nation that they hoped would be bonded to Mephras, strengthened as if a younger brother. Saiid saw millions of people, ready to buy Mephrasian goods, to work in Mephrasian factories, and thousands of Mephrasian companies, ready for a new market, ready to expand and growth the economy at an ever faster rate. It would start slowly, with a gift of loans and grants from Mephras, dependent on access to the market. Reconstruction companies would pour into the country, aiding the impoverished populace while making a profit. Soon after, Myakka would be an economic fiefdom for Mephras, a prosperous one, but a fiefdom nonetheless. They had argued whether or not to push for military bases, but Saiid thought that would go too far. Economics were enough to control the nation.

As the two stepped onto the plane, they continued to plot their plan, and their "wedding gift" to the new couple. They only hoped that Gaspard would accept. Lihua was a sweet girl, but she hoped that she could be relied on to be a good Mephrasian, and royal to the crown. She had her doubts, but was optimistic. The plane began to taxi, and soon the two were on their way to Lamoni.

-----
Red Rose Manor, Lamoni

Lihua continued to speak as Gaspard's sister and husband hung to her every word. They were the first people she had met who were so interested in her background, well besides Gaspard. She could tell that curiosity was a trait that they all shared. "Well, Chinese history is an extremely complex matter, as China is one of the most ancient cultures on the planet, and for me, it is one of the richest. When you compare it to a nation like Mephras, which is only a few centuries old, it seems as if a blink of an eye to the Chinese. Various dynasties have risen and fallen, producing both great art and ideas. it is vastly interesting, however impossible to tackle in one conversation. Myakka, I've heard, is highly Calvinist, what are the main ethnic groups? How old is Myakka?"

As she continued to speak, they pressed even further into her life. She had certainly rarely spoken about her political and personal beliefs among people she had recently met, but she had quickly come to regard them as friends. "Well, I, as a member of the nobility, am discouraged from entering Mephrasian politics, but I consider myself a socially liberal person. I support abortion rights, gay marriage, and freedom of expression. However economically, I am quite conservative. I believe in the strength of the free market as the quickest way to prosperity in this world. The free market, I also see as the quickest way to personal freedom as well. Religiously, I consider myself agnostic, although I was raised with a blend of Buddhist and Catholic beliefs. Mephras, having large Chinese and French communities, has large numbers of Catholics and Buddhists. I know that Gaspard is a Calvinist, but are you, Deborah and Martin, both Calvinists? I have great respect for the faithful, but myself have never been too devoted to religion."

As the conversation turned toward the environment, Lihua continued to speak. "Ever since I was a young child, I have loved nature. My parents took me camping quite often, and I rode horses as a child. I believe that responsible steward of the environment is key to having a great future. Are you two environmentalists? hopefully after the war subsides, the environment too can breathe a sigh of relief.

OOC: Sorry dude, power outage.

OOC: No problem.

-----

Lihua continued to speak as Gaspard's sister and husband hung to her every word. They were the first people she had met who were so interested in her background, well besides Gaspard. She could tell that curiosity was a trait that they all shared. "Well, Chinese history is an extremely complex matter, as China is one of the most ancient cultures on the planet, and for me, it is one of the richest. When you compare it to a nation like Mephras, which is only a few centuries old, it seems as if a blink of an eye to the Chinese. Various dynasties have risen and fallen, producing both great art and ideas. it is vastly interesting, however impossible to tackle in one conversation. Myakka, I've heard, is highly Calvinist, what are the main ethnic groups? How old is Myakka?"

Gaspard smiled. "Myakka has existed for centuries and the only ethnic groups that populate it are the Myakkans and the Dutch who gave us our Calvinist roots among plenty of other things which you may discover in the study of Myakkan history at some point in the future. There are so many things about Myakkan history that it would take a very long time to recount all of them but I recommend Thomas Hozek's Encyclopedia of History which, though only goes up to 1916, is a well made book that can tell you anything about my nation's history and people. Hozek wrote the book from a simple view with no recourse to ideology or prejudice. He wrote it all down as it happened."

As she continued to speak, they pressed even further into her life. She had certainly rarely spoken about her political and personal beliefs among people she had recently met, but she had quickly come to regard them as friends. "Well, I, as a member of the nobility, am discouraged from entering Mephrasian politics, but I consider myself a socially liberal person. I support abortion rights, gay marriage, and freedom of expression. However economically, I am quite conservative. I believe in the strength of the free market as the quickest way to prosperity in this world. The free market, I also see as the quickest way to personal freedom as well. Religiously, I consider myself agnostic, although I was raised with a blend of Buddhist and Catholic beliefs. Mephras, having large Chinese and French communities, has large numbers of Catholics and Buddhists. I know that Gaspard is a Calvinist, but are you, Deborah and Martin, both Calvinists? I have great respect for the faithful, but myself have never been too devoted to religion."

Martin smiled. "....The Myakkan nobility were more than welcome to entering politics in only certain ways but power usually was completely given to whoever sat on the throne. Your views do sound interesting but I do not know if any of them will gain ground in the new Myakka Gaspard keeps telling me about. As for religion, I guess you could call me a Calvinist although, truth be told, I'm a bit more inclined to agnosticism. As for Deborah, she's nominally Calvinist but I don't know what she truly is. What do you mean by a blend of Buddhist and Catholic beliefs?"

Gaspard nodded his head. "...I still have to search myself for my true beliefs concerning hot issues like abortion and what not although I believe that we will leave it to the first men and women of the soon to be constitutional monarchy to deal with it all more but, then again, I'm sure I'll be consulted for my opinions....and as for my religion, I firmly believe in the existence of God although I do not know if I can believe in those doctrines of the Reformed Church. We have no Buddhists or Chinese people in Myakka and never have but, with you, you will be our first. Are you a Buddhist, Lihua? Lastly, it is my belief that the market, if we were to have one, would be based on the idea of protecting the environment, the workers and the consumers more so than wallets."

As the conversation turned toward the environment, Lihua continued to speak. "Ever since I was a young child, I have loved nature. My parents took me camping quite often, and I rode horses as a child. I believe that responsible steward of the environment is key to having a great future. Are you two environmentalists? hopefully after the war subsides, the environment too can breathe a sigh of relief.

Martin pondered for a moment. "...I don't really believe in environmentalism but it doesn't mean that I am a believer in the idea of crushing Nature under our feet. There should be a balance between the two so that both the economy and nature are well maintained. One should not be held higher than the other in my opinion."

Deborah smiled. "...I guess you can say I concur with what my husband says but I don't really get much into politics so I just watch it all from the sidelines for the most part."

Gaspard then rose from his seat when he noticed a man coming towards him. He excused himself from the group and went to talk to the man for a while; Lihua didn't know that Gaspard was talking about his mother whose safety he was deeply concerned about. Next to Lihua, she was the only other woman he loved with much passion but not in the same way as he did with his fiancee. To pass the time, Martin began to speak. "...Lihua, why don't you tell us the basics of Chinese history until Gaspard returns?"

Lihua listened closely as Gaspard and Martin spoke about their histories and personal views. As Martin noted the opposition she might face as she spoke of her views, she replied. "Yes, I am quite aware that the Myakkan people are their own, and that they cherish their own distinct culture. It is these differences that make the world such an interesting place." She was impressed by the long history of Myakka, not realizing that the Dutch had arrived at a much later date. "I would love to one day read many books about your nation. It seems quite fascinating."

As they continued to talk freely in the afternoon air, Lihua listened to their thoughts on various social and religious issues. She had always found such views to be extremely personal and important to people, and she hoped that they would be open to discourse. Suddenly, they questioned her bizarre religious mixture. "Well, my mother was a Catholic, and my father a Buddhist. While neither of them were highly religious, I was taken to various ceremonies of each faith, and exposed to many of their doctrines. It was interesting as a child to receive such a blending of faiths, but it was through that I learned a great degree of tolerance, and of the strength of cultural exchange."

She was again faced with her uniqueness of the situation, with Gaspard's reminder of her race. "Yes, it shall be quite interesting to be the first of my kind in Myakka. I only hope that they shall embrace me, and look beyond my features and race to judge me as any other person. Not that I am not proud of my heritage." She continued, "I, being of woman of means, would love to spend some of my income bringing both Mephras and China to the Myakkan people. I would love to establish a library and research center in the capital, and possibly set up an student exchange fund."

She was glad to hear the words of Deborah, as she often shared her wish to not pay attention to politics. However the reality was that soon she would have to follow politics quite closely. "I admire you Deborah, it is nice to be able to focus on the things you enjoy most." As Gaspard excused himself, she couldn't help but tense slightly. He had always been by her side, and now she would be alone with the two new acquaintances.

She felt slightly relieved when they asked to discuss history. "China is an ancient land, that first saw civilization thousands of years ago, starting in its river valleys. Since then, China has seen long periods of unity under powerful dynasties such as the Han and the Ming, and periods of division such as the Three Kingdoms Era and the more recent Warlord Era. It has given humanity some of it's most important inventions such as gunpowder and the smallpox vaccine." She looked up, and blushed slightly. "I hope I'm not boring, maybe you would like to discuss something more recent. I would love to hear about your other brothers and sisters, Deborah."

Lihua listened closely as Gaspard and Martin spoke about their histories and personal views. As Martin noted the opposition she might face as she spoke of her views, she replied. "Yes, I am quite aware that the Myakkan people are their own, and that they cherish their own distinct culture. It is these differences that make the world such an interesting place." She was impressed by the long history of Myakka, not realizing that the Dutch had arrived at a much later date. "I would love to one day read many books about your nation. It seems quite fascinating."

Gaspard smiled. "....My father's massive and extensive library is all open for you to study and examine since we brought every single book from it to the Red Rose Manor and I remember distinctly that I did show you when we first had you visit this humble abode of mine. In fact, I often frequent there to study the works of many people and to simply enjoy a good book whenever I am not dealing with my political ventures."

As they continued to talk freely in the afternoon air, Lihua listened to their thoughts on various social and religious issues. She had always found such views to be extremely personal and important to people, and she hoped that they would be open to discourse. Suddenly, they questioned her bizarre religious mixture. "Well, my mother was a Catholic, and my father a Buddhist. While neither of them were highly religious, I was taken to various ceremonies of each faith, and exposed to many of their doctrines. It was interesting as a child to receive such a blending of faiths, but it was through that I learned a great degree of tolerance, and of the strength of cultural exchange."

Gaspard smiled. "....The House of Varan has usually been a Calvinist family with traces of the once solely known Catholicism still found within its ranks but those are mostly found in minor branches. The level of devotion to the Calvinist or Catholic ideals varies from person to person and tolerance is usually the norm although not all, I am sure, accept tolerance. Martin, my brother-in-law, is a member of the foremost branch of the House of Varan via marriage and you too, Lihua, shall be. The branch I am a part of is that which directly descends from Myakka's founder, the first Gaspard. All monarchs of Myakka have been named Gaspard save for the only Empress Regnant, Mary the First, who reigned in the 1800s. We call that period in our history the Marian Era. It was when Thomas Charka wrote the Encyclopedia of History, a multivolume work that spanned our nation's history from a non-biased viewpoint, that is, from the idea Charka developed that history must be studied as it happened rather than what we think happened. He, therefore, rejected ideological and, though not mentioned, racially motivated interpretations of history in favor of reporting it as it happened and thus his work would come into conflict with historians of varied styles such as Marxist historians. One of my educational lessons of old was to study his work and, though it only goes up to when he lived, has often been very influential and well recieved by many modern historians. Charka was also the tutor of Mary the First and his death provoked a great wave of mourning from his colleagues. All the volumes of his Encyclopedia of History can be found here in the Red Rose Manor for you to read, Lihua. They also have illustrations designed by a colleague of Charka during his lifetime and I believe the Charka family still has plenty of living members."

She was again faced with her uniqueness of the situation, with Gaspard's reminder of her race. "Yes, it shall be quite interesting to be the first of my kind in Myakka. I only hope that they shall embrace me, and look beyond my features and race to judge me as any other person. Not that I am not proud of my heritage." She continued, "I, being of woman of means, would love to spend some of my income bringing both Mephras and China to the Myakkan people. I would love to establish a library and research center in the capital, and possibly set up an student exchange fund."

Martin smiled. "...The Myakkan people accept the Dutch merely as an testament to the fact that we have contributed plenty to the nation such as the doctrines of Calvinism and important cultural achievements but since they have never at all been accustomed to a non white living in their midst, I would assume that you will have a hard time making them convinced of your merits. There ought to be, after all, blood purists who would make you look like a leech upon the ever so great Imperial Family and that your children would be half blood bastards who would plague our beloved nation. Frankly, I myself really don't care. If Gaspard loves you, Lihua, then he loves you. It's his choice whether or not to mix races. I'm the first Dutch man in the House of Varan and my entire family is solely of Dutch blood but we've always been amiable with our Myakkan brethren."

Gaspard smirked. ".....The only way Lihua can ever provoke me to ditch her in the realm of past loves is if she cheated on me. If she did do that, I would certainly have the marriage ended if it could not be worked out but let us pray that never has to be thought about for real. God forbid that I shall lose my lady love to another!"

She was glad to hear the words of Deborah, as she often shared her wish to not pay attention to politics. However the reality was that soon she would have to follow politics quite closely. "I admire you Deborah, it is nice to be able to focus on the things you enjoy most." As Gaspard excused himself, she couldn't help but tense slightly. He had always been by her side, and now she would be alone with the two new acquaintances.

Deborah smiled. "...Politics isn't really my forte, so to speak, but I do have some political beliefs of my own which are quite different from those of the standard. Many Myakkans have all sorts of beliefs which are often debated and given discourses about in colleges and so forth; and we all know that debates between Communists and Monarchists escalated into the riots which provoked the Revolution....."

Deborah sighed. "It is essential, however, that the Myakkan people be allowed to debate any belief which they may find themselves inclined towards in the interests of human rights which all men are born with. Lihua, we may have been an absolute monarchy but we had free speech and freedom of association. We had full human rights and economic freedoms then. Many people loved the absolute monarchy and many people always came to show their support. Nowadays, doing so will end up in your death so I have heard."

She felt slightly relieved when they asked to discuss history. "China is an ancient land, that first saw civilization thousands of years ago, starting in its river valleys. Since then, China has seen long periods of unity under powerful dynasties such as the Han and the Ming, and periods of division such as the Three Kingdoms Era and the more recent Warlord Era. It has given humanity some of it's most important inventions such as gunpowder and the smallpox vaccine." She looked up, and blushed slightly. "I hope I'm not boring, maybe you would like to discuss something more recent. I would love to hear about your other brothers and sisters, Deborah."

Deborah smiled. "...Gaspard and I only have another brother and another sister thus bringing the ranks of the Varan siblings up to four members since my parents never seemed to have any more children after the birth of Princess Adra who lives here in the Red Rose Manor along with Prince John who is the youngest son. John and Adra were smuggled out of Myakka by our ever beloved Governess Simone who lives here as well and who operates a vast underground network of espionage and letter carrying. It was Simone who relayed messages from all of us to my father who stayed in Myakka until his capture in Marianopolis. I still have his letters in my personal chambers as does Gaspard."

Martin smiled. "....I even recieved some letters myself from the late Emperor who generally considered me to be like his third son and who thought I was the ideal husband for Deborah. My family has lived in Myakka for centuries and we were soon ennobled by the Imperial Court. The Imperial Court can turn any family into nobility, Lihua, and they did so with my family centuries ago; my family has retained our Dutch culture very well alongside our loyalty to the Myakkan Crown. All Dutch Myakkans have been able to keep their cultural roots alive despite being Myakkan citizens and many Myakkan decrees were translated into Dutch for their benefit. Cities also had Dutch districts where Dutch people lived and gathered and there were also churches that catered to Dutch speakers as well. The Dutch people in Myakka have lived well and I am one of the many descendants of the original settlers. I'm considered to be an aristocrat by many and I'm merely royal on account of my marriage. I recall that I never expected to marry Deborah but, like death, love can sneak up on you."

While Martin and Deborah were busy talking to Lihua about various things ranging from marriage to the Dutch people of Myakka, Gaspard was busy deliberating on how to deal with a person that he was very filial towards during his life. "...You say that my mother will be arriving in Lamoni, soon?" Gaspard was always a faithful son who loved his parents as anyone would and his affection for the woman who raised him so zealously and devotedly was as important to him as his love for Lihua Mian. He knew that his mother had suffered in a Communist prison and he felt saddened by the news, at first, because he wondered if she would end up a corpse. If that had been the case, Gaspard would have suffered from a period of major heartbreak. There were only a few people he could really trust and his mother was one of them. In fact, he trusted her even more than Lihua. Lihua was very trustable, yes, but even she could decieve him.

The man Gaspard was with happened to be one of the many agents of the Imperial Court-in-Exile that often relayed information to Gaspard with the use of the Governess' Network that was nearly impossible for the Communists to comprehend yet alone infiltrate. The agent simply told Gaspard that his mother would come sometime in the week from her secure location in Lynion and that the news of it came to him via the Network. Gaspard made a mental note to smother Simone with more rewards. The Governess, a sultry and sophisticated woman of middle age, was one of Gaspard's closest confidantes and she knew him since he was a little toddler running around in the Imperial Court's many halls. She was even considered a rival to Lihua but it was highly unlikely he would have any love for her other than platonic. Besides, the Governess had more than her share of suitors anyway ranging from her own agents to major aristocrats and noblemen but she would never accept any of them. "...I'm very glad that I will be able to see the woman I called my mother for so many years again. I pray she has a safe flight or sailing; whichever method she decides to take."

"....I'm sure she will be safe, Gaspard. Have faith in the principle of positive thinking."

The Governess emerged with a smile upon her face while she adjusted the sleeves of her cardigan sweater which she wore along with a vibrantly colored medium length skirt and little plaid shoes. She was a very lovely woman and the agent looked away just a little while Gaspard embraced her with a loving affection. The Governess was likened to a second mother who spent her days instilling morals within him while educating him about the world around him when his parents were unable to do so. It was the Governess who filled the role of his mother for a while and it was her who arranged much of the messages sent back and forth to be sent back and forth among many other things which made her all the more heroic. God knows what the Communists would have done and God knows she'd be a major target for assassination.

The Governess smiled. "....You should never cease to think positively, Gaspard." Gaspard returned to the patio where the others were but Lihua didn't know that the Governess was trailing behind him with a smile upon her face as Deborah enthusiastically greeted her before her eyes were focused on Lihua's face. "...This must be your fiancee, Gaspard. It's nice to see you've found love."

The Governess took Lihua by the hand and smiled. "....I am Simone Kevlarka who is better known around Monarchist circles as the Good Governess for my role in helping the Monarchist cause in various ways and who is known for being the governess of Gaspard XX and his siblings. You should know that I am very pleased to meet you and that I harbor no ill feelings towards you on account of your features. The only way I would is if you mistreated Gaspard and, if that were to happen, you would turn me into an enemy but I feel I won't need to be one!"

The Governess took her seat at the patio and smiled. Lihua could see that Gaspard not only regarded her with much affection but that she could be considered a rival for the love he held for her which was consumated numerous times. Thankfully, and without Lihua knowing, Gaspard never thought of doing anything carnal with the Governess despite his belief that she was a very good looking woman. The Governess was, to him, a woman he couldn't touch like that. Gaspard seemed to be very happy around Simone, though. She smiled at Lihua and spoke in a refined tone. "...Long before I became the Governess of the Imperial Court, I was a lady-in-waiting to the Empress who took favor with me so much that I was propelled to the role of Governess for her first child, Gaspard, whose birth was celebrated nationwide with massive festivals and the like. It is always a commonplace custom that the birth of the first royal child is celebrated in that fashion. Gaspard's siblings were then placed under my tutelage and thankfully I was able to be there for all of them equally and as best as was possible. I am sure that I have been mentioned in conversations you've had with him and I'm sure he's told you the usual about me. I was also surprised to see that he had been planning to marry you but I'm glad he's found someone. I've never been married at all though many men would leap at the opportunity to call me their wife but, to be honest, I've found no men who I take that sort of interest in but perhaps I shall find someone who will catch my eye someday in that fashion. The ideal man for me is simply someone who is loyal, good looking and great in terms of character; perhaps, as well, I will have children of my own as well and, if I am not cursed with a barren womb, then I shall raise them with the zeal I relied upon when dealing with Gaspard and his siblings and, Heaven willing, they shall all be healthy and good of heart. I pray that's the same for Gaspard."

Simone smiled. "...I never expected to become the Governess nor did I expect to become a lady in waiting but all of the opportunities came at me and I took them all in stride. My parents were landowners who had a thriving country estate and whose ancestors were well known for their prowess and talents. I was the only daughter out of two sons as well so my mother gave me a really special place in her heart. I recall that my two brothers are also here in Lamoni along with our aging father who became a widow when our mother died from an illness. He's quite saddened to this day by the loss of his wife and I do miss my mother; mourning her loss whenever I can. I am sure you can meet them all sometime, Lihua. Gaspard did and he's found them to be quite amiable. My father is a person you would refer to as being the rugged intellectual with a fondness for witty maxims and individualism. He doesn't really conform to anyone else's ideals and often makes observations about different things. He's always been a good father and I love him very much."

bumped.

Get on MSN, Mephras. :)

OOC:Umm, when are you free? I can get on sometime later or this weekend. I have to go to work in a few hours. Also I'm moving on to the next day in this RP.

IC: Lihua had risen early to prepare for her day out with Deborah. She had decided that she needed to look her best, and be on her best behavior when she was with Gaspard's sister, as no doubt they would soon be spending quite a bit of time together in Myakka. She pulled back the curtains on her window as the sun streamed into the room. The warm Lamoni sun told her that this would be a wonderful day for window shopping, and she hoped, a wonderful day for conversation. As she dug through her luggage, attempting to find the perfect dress, she rehearsed a few phrases of politeness, something she hadn't done since finishing school.

A few minutes later, a servant knocked on the door to inform her that her car was ready and waiting outside. She grabbed her hairbrush as she scurried down the first flight of stairs. She quickly grabbed her purse and her sunglasses, and flew out the door. She waved warmly to the driver, and spoke. "To the Red Rose Manor, my good man." Soon she was speeding down the same freeway she had ridden hundreds of times, towards the house she had come to regard as her second home. As she pulled into the driveway, the same feeling of joy rushed over her body as she saw the front door. Of course, this day would be somewhat different, but she hoped that soon it would all feel the same to her, just like a giant family.

She bowed politely to the chauffeur as his white gloved hand opened the door, once again allowing her to taste the crisp Lamoni air. She walked slowly towards the door, as her mind raced, contemplating various topics that she could discuss to keep the day moving. She reached out her hand, and knocked loudly on the door, while putting on a large smile. Soon Deborah would emerge, and they would have their first big day out.