Coronation Celebration

[Seylos 735]

KINGDOM OF SEYLOS

MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

ADDRESSED TO ALL NATIONS

 

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the Kingdom of Seylos would hereby like to extend and invitation to all nations that are in diplomatic contact. Soon, the Crown Prince Aidan Redmond will be given the official crown as King of Seylos at his coronation. While the media and government refers to him as King, since he is the next in succession and the previous King has passed, traditionally the title does not officially pass until coronation though it is used before hand if the coronation is guaranteed. It is here at this event all diplomatic staff, royalty, nobility, elected leaders, or other government officials are all invited to attend the proceedings beginning in the morning and lasting throughout the day.

However His Majesty has decreed a second celebration, a celebration for the people of Seylos be held. A commemoration of a new era for the Kingdom in world, a hope that we can find new nations to draw close to and to help further the prosperity of the international community in which we all reside. This celebration will be held throughout the whole of Seylos with any person within our borders invite to join in the festivities. The Royal Palace will also be hosting this even directly after the conclusion of the coronation ceremonies which include pre approved members of the public and be expanded onto the palace grounds to accommodate. In addition a massive fireworks display will be held from the HMS Defiant which is temporarily in port for the festivities.

It shall be noted that for any other royal families that may attend that His Majesty King Aidan Redmond is currently in relations with Corporal Dustin Gareth of the Kingdom of Seylos Royal Marine Corps and will not be accepting courtship requests from any other royal houses.

We look forward to all of your replies.

 

 

OOC: This is the beginning of the most grandiose of partys on this fair Eurth. Everyone jump in it's time to mingle.

[Fulgistan 706]

Your Majesty,

Although traditionally a communique such as this would be filtered through a gauntlet of Secretaries and their respective Bureaus, I thought it would be best on this occasion to personally congratulate you on your ascension;  Seylos is a lucky nation to call you its King. It is my great pleasure to report that myself, my family, Deputy Secretary Bagabandi, Secretary for Culture Bayanchur Tekin, and representatives from the Free Social Republic of Bahinar will be in attendance at your coronation. Should you need or desire anything that the Worker's Republic can provide in order to better the festivities, merely send word through the appropriate channels and we shall do our utmost to accommodate you. These are exciting times, for you and your people both. Enjoy them, Your Majesty, and congratulations once again.

With regards,

Tomur Almas, General Secretary of the Worker's Republic of Fulgistan

[Gallambria 795]

 

[Prymont 1,067]

To: Prince Aidan Redmond of @Seylos
From: Foolish Bandit, voted Best Party-Goer of the Year 2009-2017

 

Aight Posh Boy,

My man Georgie D (George Duval, President of the United States) linked me up with your invite after he couldn't attend. Said he was too busy babysitting his neighbour's cat or something, so he's sending Prymont's next best thing, which is your boy. Officially I don't have any of these fancy titles, although it's a bit shocking that I haven't been given one yet. Doesn't matter though, as everyone knows me as the Prince of Prymont, and any successful party needs me.

Congrats on being the first kid your mum plopped out. I'm told that being a king isn't too hard - all you need to do is sit in your big chair and go smile at people now and then. No big deal. You say you're already with a lass, but I'd keep an eye out for those mad ones up your north. They're a bit wild, and not in the good way. I wouldn't be surprised to see them kidnap your girl and send their own in her place, but if that happens, don't worry. I know a guy who knows a guy who knows a guy in Asgeirria that does some back alley genetic modification, and they'll have any imposter looking like your girl in no time. Mates rates too, innit? Get my man a good deal.

I'm down to nip over to Seylos when you have your big do and hang out for a bit. Bandit's got you covered too, big presents on the way. Would've liked more notice so I have more time to buy and ship them over, but I'll do my best. Got in touch with the unpaid workers from Fulgistan and made some deals to get the sh*t moved. If it comes early, and you'll know when it does, just throw some meat out for it and clean up any sh*t. It gets mad if it's dirty.

Anyway, I'll see you in a bizzle.

 

This was at some other royal party last year. Don't remember who it was to be honest, or anything from that night, but that's when you can tell it was a good night.

Edited July 9, 2018 by Prymont

[Seylos 735]

KINGDOM OF SEYLOS

KING AIDAN REDMOND

ADDRESSED TO: "Foolish Bandit" of the United States of @Prymont.

My lass is a lad mate.

Welcome to the Kingdom of Seylos.

 

 

Edited July 9, 2018 by Seylos

[Sunset Sea Islands 1,385]

To: Prince Aidan Redmond of @Seylos

Let me begin by expressing my sincere congratulations to your impending ascension. May your reign be one of peace, prosperity and stability for your nation.

Naturally, I, Prime Minister Theresa Tumbleweed of the Radiant Republic of the Sunset Sea Islands, accept your kind invitation to Selbourne. All necessary preparation for the state visit shall be initiated presently. The Foreign Office will provide the required information regarding my attendance.

Hopefully, this event will mark the beginning of fruitful relations between our nations. May peace be the shining star illuminating your path down history.

With regards,

[Sunset Sea Islands 1,385]

To: Prince Aidan Redmond of @Seylos
From: Selena and Adrian of House Yūyake of the Sunset Sea Islands

May peace be with you, Aidan

My name is Selena, once heir to the Throne of the former Kingdom of the Sunset Sea Islands. My husband and I are most grateful for inviting us, even though we have abdicated from our royal titles. We congratulate you on your coronation and want to thankfully accept your invitation. Since Adrian and I sought refuge in the Beautiful Empire of @Orioni, we have not interacted much with royal families besides the Orionii. We look forward to meeting you in person for the first time, establish new connections and to meet old friends from all over the world in your beautiful nation.

Live long and prosper,

Selena of Yūyake

[Variota 916]

To: King Aidan Redmond of @Seylos
From: F.F.f.F.f.F. Dina Diva
Regarding: Your party, boi

So, I was just told that only letters written on official letterhead paper count as official letters. Like, who cares? Anyway, I see you totally followed my advice and got yourself a party. Smart thinking! Dina Diva is never wrong, baby. But it wouldn't be a real party without me. Who are you going to party with otherwise? Don't answer that, it was hypocritical... hypnotical? Hypothetical! I'll be there and I'll bring some top notch party-goers. You know the Diva don't mess around, boo.

My boi Henk will be there, the bastard actually won Eurthvision. We'll do some body shots off of him, it's like a rite of passage. I remember one kid, I think like 19 or something, at a manor. Big party by... I want to say a Kommune owner or shareholder? Anyway, he went to do some shots off of Henk and first five, nothing wrong. So we take a little break, like ten minutes. And I see him leaning a bit and I think like, he's had too much. And he keels over, hahaha. Like, full on passed out asleep. Snoring his ass off. So me and Henk are like, what the f*ck. Turns out, the kid's dad operated a couple of narcotic stores in the area and had bought some shady GHB in bulk. The kid had done five shots of GHB, hahahaha. Don't worry though, he was fine. I saw him a week later in Henk's penthouse, wearing a sailor's outfit while waiting for breakfast. Not really my cup of tea but hey, it's not like I'm the one playing the harbor master, am I right?

I'll bring a bottle of the good stuff, not GHB haha, and the body to do them off, you just make sure your liver is working on full speed!

X-O-X-O
Dina Diva

 

[Limonaia 274]

To: Prince Aidan Redmond of @Seylos

From: H.R.H Grand Duke Vittorio Emanuele VI of Limonaia

 

I and the remainder of the Ducal family graciously accepts the most welcome invitation to the coronation of Prince Aidan Redmond of Seylos and informs that I, the Grand Duke will personally attend, as well as my wife, son and daughter in law.

We ask that if there's anything the Ducal family can do to assist the Prince,  we are notified immediately and look forward to attending his coronation.

Best regards

Vittorio Emanuele VI di Cabrena

[Fleur de Lys 283]

From: Ministre des Affaires Diplomatiques et Commerciales de Fleur de Lys François Richard

To: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Seylos

 

Sincere Salutations,

In the name of the République de Fleur de Lys, its people and its representatives, allow me first to send our warmest congratulations to Crown Prince Redmond along our best wishes to the Seylosian people for the beginning of a new area in your Kingdom.

The possibility of a new King offers vast horizons which generally, a new generation bring, as a value to the nation. We may only support this new vision that Crown Prince Redmond may bring to the Kingdom of Seylos, as an achievement towards unconditional peace and prosperity, and shall be more then glad to participate fascinate the future of our World with His Majesty, as know that, the Republic remains more then open to any form of cooperation, if that is naturally a will of your own too.

I shall therefore, be thankful for the most generous invitation sent by your Ministry, and reply to it positively in the name of the Assemblée Nationale which have commissioned me to attend the Coronation Ceremony along the Second Celebration.

 

Looking forward to meet His Majesty,

Regards,

- M.A.D.C. Richard

[Adaptus 318]

TO: Prince Aidan Redmond of @Seylos

FROM: Caesar Augustus III of the Alexandrian Realm, Anax of the Adapton People, Imperator-Elect of the Foederati Imperium, Archon-Principal of the College of Principals, Theos-Ethereal of the High City. 

I would like to extend both my condolences on the passing of your previous King. As well as my congratulations on your ascension to the throne. 

I am grateful for your invitation to the coronation ceremony. I believe it a great standing for such close nations, geographically, to be expand on our relationship, and I believe this is a perfect opportunity to do so. As such, I myself will personally attend this coronation, with a contingent of my staff to accompany. 

This afford you a great opportunity for your nations future, both internally and internationally, s the beginning of a new epoch. Thus I would like to extend my hope of a brighter future for your nation under your leadership and guidance. 

I look forward to our first encounter. 

Kindest regards, 

Caesar Augustus III. 

 

[Faramount 387]

Ministry of State of the

Democratic Republic of Faramount

Minister of Foreign Affairs
Kingdom of Seylos

Your Excellency,

On behalf of President Matthieu Teroux, I offer congratulations to His Majesty, the King of Seylos, and best wishes for his future formal reign. President Teroux was honored and pleased by the invitation to attend the King's coronation. The president will sadly be otherwise disposed with a prior engagement on that date, but with His Majesty's forgiveness, I will attend in the president's place. I look forward to offering my nation's support and well-wishes to the new monarch of Seylos.

My staff will reach out forthwith to organize the logistics of the visit.

Sincerely,

/s/

Arthur Durand
Minister of State
Democratic Republic of Faramount

[Pallamara 39]

 

To:  Prince Aidan Redmond of Seylos

From: Grand Duke Valentinian III of Pallamara

Greetings, Prince Aidan.  Allow me congratulate you on what should be a joyous occasion for your entire nation, and welcome warmly into the circle of reigning monarchs.  We are are pleased to accept the invitation to the coronation, and shall make all due preparations to attend, an occasion I will dearly look forward to. 

Highest Regards,

Valentijn

[Tagmatium Rules 1,707]

To: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Seylos

From: the Agios Basilikon Kounsistorion of the Megas Agios Basileia ton Arhomaion

The circumstances that surrounded the terrible, if brief, coup attempt shocked Ahromaneia to the core. It was a most dishonourable and heinous crime that was undertaken, especially surprising given the perpetrators. These actions have made those individuals amongst the most wanted people on Eurth. They cannot escape God's judgement forever and we pray that justice comes swiftly.

However, as awful as the coup attempt was, it did show that Crown Prince Aidan has great strength of character and willpower, especially as he put himself within harm's way to bring peace back to your kingdom. This nobility of spirit shines in these dark times, and with which the Agios Basilikon Kounsistorion does not doubt will mean that the Kingdom of Seylos will become stronger with him at the helm.

Although your nation has only begun to emerge more properly onto the world stage so recently, your kingdom and people have shown themselves to be a resolute and noble people. Undoubtedly Crown Prince Aidan will show the same strength of character once more formally on the throne and lead his people into God's light. To be able to see the formal, if not actual, start of his majesty's reign would certainly be a momentous honour.

And because of this, Megas Agios Basileia ton Arhomaion will accept the offer of attending the coronation of Crown Prince Aidan, when he formally ascends the throne of the Kingdom of Seylos. No doubt this will be the start of a glorious epoch for your honoured nation. May God grant his majesty a long, and peaceful reign, one that allows the people of his nation and the rest of the world a chance to prosper.

To pay the invitation the honour that it gives itself, the Agios Basilikon Kounsistorion will dispatch Fillipos Kommenos, the Kouropalates of the Megas Agios Basileia ton Arhomaion. He will be attending alongside his wife, Frankeska. Accompanying them will be a small staff, who will help to enlighten all those present of the culture of Ahromaneia and spread ties of friendship between our two great and noble nations.

I pray to Christ that the most notorious moment of the future King of Seylos' reign has past and that he will meet any and all new challenges with the ability that he has so far shown.

Eugenios Goulielmos,

Megas Logothetes

of the

Logothesion of Foreign Affairs

of the

Megas Agios Basileia ton Arhomaion

[Cristina 306]

REGNO DI CRISTINA

Reĝlando de Cristina

Kingdom of Cristina

 

Your Highness,

　With greatest respect and honor, we would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Your Highness on this most glorious day. The occasion of your impending ascension.

　Your House’s love for the Seylosian people, endless service and wise leadership has brought great political, economical and social success to Your Highness' country, making it prosperous and peaceful. As a result, Your Highness' people are happy and may revere their future King with love, respect and praise. Hence, the world holds Your Royal Highness's future formal reign with high regard.

   On behalf of the good people of the Kingdom of Cristina I and the remainder of the Royal House of Korvini, Her Highness Princess Carolina, my daughter, together with Cristinese Chief of Government, Minister of State signora Adriana Monadic, thankfully accept your invitation to attend the coronation ceremony.

　In glory and majesty, we extend our congratulations to the people of Kingdom of Seylos on this grand occasion. May Our Lord Jesus Christ continue to bestow His precious blessings upon Your Highness and all the Seylosian people.

Highest Regards,

Nova Maxima Korvini

Casata Reale di Korvini

Edited July 29, 2018 by Cristina

[Astriedan 72]

To: Prince Aidan Redmond of Seylos

From: Emperor Syra Aïl III of the United Houses of Astriedan

 

Your Highness,

 

I am delighted to have received an invitation for an event of such importance and I offer you my sincere congratulations.

Sadly, I will not be able to attend the ceremony by myself as my numerous duties are forcing me to stay in Astriedan, however, I will send my beloved daughter, Princess Verania Aïl, accompanied by an imperial speaker. They will bring some of the finest gifts we can offer.

I hope this will allow closer relations between neighbours.

 

May your reign be long and fruitful,

Emperor Syra Aïl III of the United Houses of Astriedan

[Seylos 735]

OOC: Alright everyone, this is where it begins This might be a tad bit long but it's just so everyone has a solid standing of who is in attendance. Also I tried to keep the actual coronation brief so it's not super wild and amazing aha

Inside the Royal Palace held a sprawling throne room, used mainly only for official functions and rarely for practicality. But today it would be the most important place in Seylos, with many eyes around the world looking upon it. Inside were already hundreds of attendees waiting for the main event to being. Lining the center aisle of the throne room were representatives of various members of the Seylosian military, standing as a form of honor guard. By the throne stood several upper members of the nobility, military flag officers, and the Lord High Steward who himself would be responsible for the crowning. At the entrance stood an older man, dressed in his formal regalia next to a small podium and microphone whose duty it was to announce those of importance who entered the hall.

A deep bell tolled throughout the hall, sending the crowd into silence. The man at the microphone spoke up his voice filling the space, "It is now my honor to introduce our most esteemed guests from every corner of this fair Eurth."

Quickly the members of the military flaking the central aisle snapped to attention facing inwards.

"General Secretary Tomur Almas of the Worker's Republic of @Fulgistan, accompanied by his family, Deputy Secretary Bagabandi, and Secretary for Culture Bayanchur Tekin."

"His Royal Highness King Albert II of the Kingdom of @Gallambria accompanied by his wife and Queen of Gallambria."

"Noah Marshall, representative of the United States of @Prymont."

"Prime Minister Theresa Tumbleweed of the Radiant Republic of the @Sunset Sea Islands."

"Foorste Frauwe fan'es Ferantwortleik fane's Folk Dina Diva of the Unified @Variotan State."

"His Royal Highness Grand Duke Vittorio Emanuele VI of the Grand Duchy of @Limonaia accompanied by the Ducal family."

"Ministre des Affaires Diplomatiques et Commerciales François Richard of the Republic of @Fleur de Lys."

"Caesar Augustus III of the Alexedrain Realm, Anax of the Adapton People, Imperator-Elect of the Foederati Imperium, Archon-Principal of the College of Principals, Theos-Ethereal of the High City, of the Grand Federal Imperium of @Adaptus."

"Praetor Mathon Terix of the @Rihan Republic"

"Minister of State Arthur Durand of the Democratic Republic of @Faramount."

"Grand Duke Valentinian III of the Grand Duchy of @Pallamara."

"Kouropalates Filipos Kommenos of the Megas Agios Basileia Arhomanion ( @Tagmatium Rules)."

"Queen Nova Maxima Korvini of the Kingdom of @Cristina accompanied by the Royal House of Korvini and members of government."

"And Princess Verania Aïl of the United Houses of @Astriedan."

By the end of the introductions the more important guest had taken their seats in the front of the hall.

Behind the now closed doors Aidan paced nervously waiting for his part to finally being. The small Royal procession taking a breather before the beginning of official ceremony. Dustin walked up to him and smiled, "Try not to be too nervous out there, if it makes you feel any better I'm not a famous entertainer or a person with a fancy title. I'm sure there will be more eyes on me the potential walking scandal."

Aidan gave him a playful push, "Don't be ridiculous. Plus I also made you a Baron yesterday so you get to have at least the fancy title."

Dustin was shocked, "You made me a Baron? A baron of where exactly?"

"Well Im pretty sure it was Dunblane." Aidan replied pausing for a moment to think, "Yeah definitely Dunblane."

Dustin barely held back his gasp, considering he was just made the lord of his hometown. He realized that Aidan most likely didn't understand how big of a deal this was to him, even if he was dating the soon to be king. Aidan took notice, "Are you alright?"

Dustin just shrugged, "I uh, dinnae ken really. It's just a big deal."

Aidan was about to respond when his mother, the Queen Mother Eleanora approached them both, "Come now Aidan, it's about to begin."

Another bell tolled. It was time.

Inside the throne room the man's voice again filled the space, "All rise for His Royal Highness Prince Aidan of House Redmond in attendance of his coronation to be made King of this bountiful Kingdom. The Prince will be accompanied by the Queen Mother Eleanora, Her Royal Highness Princess Margaret, and Lord Dustin Gareth of Dunblane.  "

The crowd inside stood up, most of the guests arching their heads trying to get a glimpse of the procession. Aidan had eschewed many of the over the top expenses of coronations past, such as his father's. But even in doing that he still couldn't help but take in the grandiose appearance of the throne room. He began to walk slowly through the door, dressed in his naval dress uniform, and down the central aisle. On his left his sister, his right his mother, and behind them Dustin walked with two members of the Royal Guard. After what seemed like hours he reached the edge of the steps to the throne, which had the Lord High Steward and the Archbishop of Selbourne on each side. There next to the Archbishop lay the crown, an impressive work of art lined is velvet and gold. Approached the front of the chair and stood waiting for the Lord High Steward to begin.

The Lord High Steward spoke up, "May the prince kneel before the Throne of Seylos."

Aidan got down on one knee and bowed his head slightly in front of the throne.

The Archbishop held the throne in his hands gently and passed it to the Lord High Steward, who grasped either side picking it. The Steward walked over to Aidan, also carrying the Sword of State which had already been with him. "Aidan Redmond, do you proclaim the Royal Oath of Loyalty to this grand Kingdom for which you are to rule?"

Aidan looked up and recited the oath that he had been memorizing for the past few days. After a few minutes he finally finished hoping he had gotten the whole thing correct.

"By the powers given unto me by great nobility of Seylos, the people of Seylos, and by god himself, I proclaim you King Aidan Redmond." The Lord High Steward placed the crown on his head and turned to the assembled nobility standing nearby, "Sirs, I here present unto you King Aidan, your undoubted King! He has come to pledge in eternal service to this Kingdom, are you willing to do the same?"

The crowd replied loudly, "God save King Aidan!"

The Lord High Steward stood back towards Aidan, "Then rise Aidan Redmond, King of Seylos."

Aidan turned and faced the assembled crowd, which burst into cheers, with much of the Seylosians present chanting 'God save the King' over and over. Aidan smiled and began to walk back down the aisle again. The procession beginning it's traditional ceremonial movements which he joined. By the end he was back out in the large courtyard which itself had a well maintained beach on it. He couldn't help but smile as he saw several ships from the Royal Navy standing by just off the coast most importantly the HMS Defiant which had just come back from Fulgistan. Behind him he could see the royal guests begin to file out of the palace into the courtyard for the beginning of what he was hoping to be a legendary afterparty.

 

 

 

[Faramount 387]

Artur Domiani was amongst the first to file out of the hall, having been amongst the last to enter. Being the representative of a minor power had drawbacks, and one of them, for sure, was always being seated in the back of any event. But being the representative of a minor power also had advantages -- like always being able to leave quickly because of being seated at the back of every event.

Minister of State Domiani was not leaving early today, however. The chief diplomat of the Democratic Republic of Faramount had a task list to complete. He'd need to congratulate the new Seylosian monarch, of course. But there were more important tasks -- like using the event to kiss up to the Limonaians and Variotans. The Terrone regime wouldn't be nearly as well-off were it not for the support of the two nations.

First things first, though, Domiani had an even more important task to complete: getting a drink. By the time the first of the more powerful diplomats began to exit the hall, DOmiani had already found his way to the bar, and began carefully inspecting the cocktail menu. What was the point of visiting a foreign nation, after all, if one did not partake in its local drinking customs?

Edited August 16, 2018 by Faramount

[Tagmatium Rules 1,707]

In another time, the representative from the Greater Holy Empire might even have taken offence at not being the name to be read out first. Whilst Tagmatium might feel that it warranted such favourable treatment – especially from a mere kingdom – it was not really, truly the image that the Kouropalates was here to spread. It was becoming increasingly clear to the Agios Basilikon Kounsistorion that, perhaps, Tagmatium was doing quite a good job of isolating itself. Beside the occasional foray into sanctioning other nations for the deplorable practice of slavery, Tagmatium had done little else. No new trade agreements had been signed and the country preferred to keep itself above the alliances and blocs that were forming, since the last time that it happened in the region had occasionally been calamitous.

For this reason, Tagmatium had sent the man who was effectively the chief diplomat for the country to attend the coronation of Aidan as the King of Seylos. That decision had been made as soon as the message had reached the Tagmatine government, as it was felt that the new Seylosian monarch deserved the honour of a visit from Aroma. It was almost surprising to see that it had drawn the attention of quite a few of the more powerful nations of the world. There were representatives here from countries that the Megas Agios Basileia ton Arhomaion had yet to formally meet. Including the monarch of Adaptus, now given imperial ranking. That would have to change – when the Tagmatine government had learned of the numbers and importance of the foreign dignitaries arriving, Kommenos had also been charged with putting feelers out towards them.

Having carefully read the dossiers written on all of the attendees, as and when discrete intelligence activity permitted, Fillipos Kommenos knew that he could recognise all of the other representatives of foreign nations at the coronation. The domestic ones, however, he was less sure of, although that was mainly because the intelligence agencies had a lot less information on them. That was going to be quite annoying. He didn't want to even potentially insult someone by getting anything incorrect.

The aeroplane, in the blue/grey livery of the the Tagmatine airforce, the Basilikoaeroporia, had taxied to its designated position on the run way and the occupants disembarked. A red, black-bordered band a long the length of its fuselage meant that it was in the direct service of the imperial government. First out of the aircraft was a group of bodyguards, three from each of the six different regiments. As Kommenos and his wife left the plane, the guards struck a contrast to the clothes – the dark suit that they both wore, almost the uniform of the political elite across the world. Otherwise, it would have been the opulent court dress, but that was now only really worn during state ceremonies in Tagmatium. Fillipos himself was of average height, his dark hair and bread without grey but starting to thin. Beside him, Frankeska was only slightly shorter than her husband but was slightly chubbier than what was considered beautiful. Her dark brown hair worn loose about her shoulders and came down to her back. They were both from the military aristocracy of Tagmatium and had even met whilst serving in the Palationoi, the elite branch of the Tagmatine armed forces.

Another group of soldiers followed the Kouropalates and Kouropalatissa mirrored the number and make up of the first. Together, they were a sight of true Aroman splendour – armour polished so that the light caught it and dressed in rich robes as they escorted the Tagmatine official and his wife down the steps from the aircraft. Walking perfectly in step as they descended the steps from the plane, the guards' magnificent uniforms showcased the glory of Tagmatium. The guards invoked the superiority of Aroma, the centre of the civilised world as it was. That such a high official deigned to honour a barbarian king by attending his coronation...

A gaggle of priests on board the aircraft but visible from the outside simultaneously drew the sign of the cross, as the pair descended from the aircraft and said prayers asking for a safe and productive visit to Seylos. Fillipos winced slightly as he passed them. Considering the judgement of Ahromaneia by the Munder Liber questionnaire, which he himself didn't think an unfair summation, he imagined that there were a lot of parties reading a lot into the Tagmatine visit. There always were personal priests, as well as ones sent by the Churches themselves, present with any sort of diplomatic representation from the Greater Holy Empire. This time, it could be perceived as reinforcement of religious hostility, with the hint of it being state-supported. At was a topic that he really didn't want to have to discuss with anyone. He felt a nudge in his side as Frankeska poked him with her elbow, gently, as they followed their bodyguards. He guessed that his mood might have shown on his face.

As soon as the Tagmatine couple arrived at the throne room, the guards departed. Each small detachment was led by an officer of senior rank, as was due to such an exalted member of the Agios Basilikon Kounsistorion. They all gave the tradition half-bow to the two, who returned it, as the honour of senior officers of the Tagmatine military and members of the élite Tagmata meant that they were entitled to it. The guards then went back to the transport from the airport and await their return from the coronation. It also seemed to be just crass to have bodyguards at an event so key to the reign of Aidan, and an insult towards the soldiery of Seylos that had been honoured with guarding their soon-to-be king and those invited to the coronation.

As the pair filed into the throne room, Fillipos listen to the other names and countries being announced. His ears pricked up at the mention of the Rihan Republic. They had been isolationist until very recently and were considered to be something of a historical oddity by Tagmatium – a strange group of exiles that had willingly fled the heart of civilisation and the light of Christ. If he got a chance, Fillipos would take the opportunity to try to speak to the Praetor. The party after the coronation would be a good place to try to start better relations between them and sweep away the events that caused the Rihannsu to flee Tagmatine shores.

Fillipos smiled slightly at the list of titles that followed the Adapton monarch's name. It looked like Augustus would be here to stay, unlike the previous monarchs. The last twelve or so years had seen four different people sit on the throne of Adaptus and there were still those in the Agios Basilikon Kounsistorion who thought that Augustus might last only as long as the rest. The Kouropalates had met and liked Carollus and from all appearances, Augustus was a very different person. Certainly a lot more theatrical but also undeniably a leader with vision.

The shortness of the coronation was a marked difference to ones of Kommodos and, before him, Theodosios, that the Kouropalates had attended. They had gone on for hours and included the Agios Basileos being raised upon a shield held by a member of each of the armed forces of Tagmatium, ceremonially displaying the new monarch had their backing, despite it being a democratic election. They had raised and toppled rulers of Tagmatium before. The new monarch also had to refuse the title three times before accepting, suggesting humbleness and reluctance to take over the reins of the greatest nation on Eurth.

“God save the King!”

The new king looked pleased with himself and Fillipos thought that he had every right to be. It was a mercy that Prince Henry's coup attempt had been brief – it could have gone so much worse than it did. Instead, although there were casualties in the regrettable affair, Seylos now had a king who seemed to have the ability and the drive to lead them into a new age and this was recognised by some of the most powerful nations in the world. That the ceremony was brief and not as ostentatious as those of many other nations showed that King Aidan was going to bring a new energy to the throne, one not so tied by the traditions of the past.

Following the king and the rest of the guests out, the Kouropalates walked arm in arm with Frankeska into the courtyard. He hesitated briefly. Many years ago now, he had been held hostage for a short time during a peace talk, of all things. It had left him nervous, for a time, of large crowds of strangers. Not exactly ideal for the lead diplomat. Frankeska noticed the hesitation and gave his hand a slight squeeze and Fillipos returned a sad smile. The flicker of nerves embarrassed him – he was a member of a aristocratic family of great history, including a brief dynasty that sat on the Leopard Throne. He should be better than that.

Frankeska whispered to him. “If anything happens, there are lots of other important people here to push in front of you.”

He laughed at the diplomatically-unwise joke and smiled at her. The King of Seylos would be the first person that Fillipos tried to talk to. It would seem to much of a snub to start talking to another head of state or representative at his own coronation. There were guests already heading towards the bar, though. They may have been guests who didn't expect to be able to talk to the king but the Kouropalates did see the Minister for State of Farramount already getting a drink. He wondered if King Aidan would have seen Minister Durand precisely because he was from a more minor power. The new Seylosian monarch might be that keen to make a break from tradition. Most of the people here wouldn't be so hidebound as to take offence to it.

[Astriedan 72]

"- We are starting our final approach your highness.

- Thanks, officer, you may dispose."

 

The IAF officer went back to assist the pilot. As Verania went back from the bar to her seat she took a final look at everyone.

The imperial speaker was, as usual, silent and perfectly calm. Her lady in waiting and her master of arms were busy giving last minute instructions to the various servants, footmen and security guards of her personnal court. Finally, the wolf tamer was sleeping.

As Verania was putting her safety belt on, she turned to her lady in waiting who was sitting down next to her.

 

"- Have you spoke with the tamer?

- Yes your highness, he will leave us at the airport to prepare the gift.

- Very good."

 

The plane landed without incident and Verania and her court were transported from the airport to the palace. Less than an hour after, they proceeded in the throne room. Verania was getting a bit nervous, this was her first political event. After all, she was only 17, she wasn't even an adult according to the law of her country! But she had to get used to meetings, ceremonies and such. Plus, she had a diplomacy specialized imperial speaker with her.

After an unexpectedly quick ceremony, they all went to the palace courtyard. Verania dismissed most of her servants before trying to spot the people that were announced earlier.

The first one she spotted was the representative from Tagmatium. He was, like many others, approaching the newly crowned king.

 

"- We should follow his example. said Verania to the imperial speaker

- Good idea, princess, I will order our gifts to come with us."

 

He made a few signs to some servants. While some ran away to carry the instructions, a servant approached them with a long gift wrapped in richly decorated tissue. While they waited for the second gift to arrive, Verania spotted the representative from Faramount getting drinks at the bar. She turned to the imperial speaker, visibly confused.

 

"- Are those alcoholic drinks at the bar?

-Yes, princess. In most foreign countries, it is usual for high ranking people to drink.

- How strange!"

 

Verania used the political language in he last sentence, which allowed her to say the word "strange" but with an intonation that meant "interesting".

Suddenly a surprised exclamation near Verania caught her attention. One of the local guests was making a few steps back, revealing a great black wolf of Astriedan calmly walking trough the crowd, his tamer behind him telling guests to not worry, that the wolf had been fed an hour ago and that he was very docile, a remark that made Verania smile because it was only partly true. He was docile because he wasn't hungry, but let one of those get hungry and he will, without hesitation, rip you apart and leave only your bones on the ground. The animal was about half the size of a human and could be an extremly loyal, obedient and strong pet when well fed and educated. Which he was.

 

"- Alright then, let's go meet the new monarch said the princess"

 

And on these words they went to see the new king of Seylos.

[Fulgistan 706]

"Darling, should I wear the red tie, or the red tie?"

General Secretary Almas called out to his wife as he compared neckwear in the full-length mirror of his bedroom. He was not going to be underdressed at his first coronation, no sir.

"Tomur, for Bozaan's sake, we have to leave. If you hadn't been wasting so much time on that stupid State of Nations stuff, we'd already be at the airport!"

"Haiying, I had to wrap up my perestroika post! President Reagan's been waiting on it for weeks! Besides, we'll be there on time."

"Daaaad, the Deputy Secretary's here!"

That was Shujie, his younger daughter. She was only 17, and had the attitude to match. Still, like her sister Alyona, she was a good kid most of the time.

"sh*t. Okay, never mind, we really do have to go now. Shujie, grab your sister and get in the car, love."

Shujie rolled her eyes and dashed off. Meanwhile, Almas hurriedly tied his tie and grabbed his travel case while his wife stared daggers at him.

"Now we'll have to deal with Kebek. You know how he is about punctuality."

"Listen, my beautiful lotus flower, the last thing I'm concerned with today is Kebek Bagabandi; there are far more important things on this Eurth than some bureaucrat with a thing about timing."

The Almas family made their way down the broad stairway at the entrance to the House of the Revolution, sweeping up Deputy Secretary Bagabandi along the way. He tapped his watch and said some words, but Almas had learned over his five years in office to selectively filter out whatever Kebek said. It was one of his many talents, really. Waiting for them at Bogd Gioro airport was Secretary for Culture Tekin, who'd been putting together all the details of Fulgistan's contributions to the festivities. As soon as they'd boarded the plane, Almas started on him.

"Talk to me, Bayanchur. What's the verdict on those things we discussed?"

"We had to scrap the tiger idea, unfortunately. Too much of a white elephant in terms of expectations of care."

"What about the actual white elephant, then?"

"The same issues, only moreso."

"Ugh. So we're down to just the horse, then?"

"I'm afraid so, Comrade General Secretary. I'm just as let down as you are."

"It's just...you know, everyone expects us to give him a horse! It's such a cliche! I still think we should have opted for the tiger. Maybe for his birthday."

"I'll make a note of that, Comrade General Secretary."

"What about the dancers, are they still coming? And the whole oxen?"

"Yes, that's still on; the dancers are with the Bahinese and we've got the oxen...oxes? Oxens? Cooling down in the cargo hold. Oh, and the Faramanians should be here any second as well, thankfully."

Almost as soon as Tekin had finished, the representatives of the People's Republic of @Faramount at last entered the cabin, alongside the South Bahinese. Sensing a shift in the group makeup, Bagabandi attempted to fish for support among the newcomers as the jet took off.

"Comrades, what is this? In the Worker's Republic we shoot monarchs! We don't give them lavish gifts! Why is this Seylosian princeling worthy of special treatment?"

If the foreign representatives agreed with him, they didn't say much to that effect. They knew where the balance of power lay, and on this plane, it was in Almas' corner; no hardliner cronies to help Bagabandi now. 

"The world is a rapidly changing place, Comrade Bagabandi. Seylos is a valuable friend to our government and our people, and Prince Aidan deserves to be commended for seeing off his brother's coup. Besides, it's not like we can chuck the gifts out the back of the plane."

Bagabandi managed a quite impressive harrumph and sulked for most of the remaining journey. After an hour or two, Alyona gasped excitedly at something on her KeyPhone.

"Shu! Shu! Ohhh my god, Foolish Bandit's gonna be there, lah!"

Immediately, her sister popped out of her seat.

"No f*cking way! I literally just saw that on Wittier but, like, no way is Bandit gonna be at the same party as us!"

Seeing a rare opportunity to connect with his children's interests, Almas smiled and crossed his arms smugly.

"See? Now you know why it's good to go to official functions. You'd never have been able to see this Bandit guy if ol' dad hadn't dragged you along to this."

"...Dad, if you embarrass us in front of him, I will actually die and come back to haunt you forever, lah."

Almas sighed. At the end of the day, maybe he just wasn't hip with the kids. Thankfully, their flight was soon over, and the few dozen people of the entourage climbed out of the cabin on stiff legs, happy to be finally in Seylos.

At the ceremony, Almas was proud to note that Fulgistan and himself topped the list of attendees. Following the coronation, the Almas family and their hangers-on quickly shot off in different directions; Shujie and Alyona made a dash for the bar, with their mother power-walking after them in some attempt at chaperoning, Bagabandi chose to hang around in one corner with the Bahinese, and Secretary Tekin did his best to stop the Fulgistani Faramanians from getting into a fistfight with their dictatorial counterparts. Bayanchur, while doing this, gave the General Secretary a wink and a nod, directing his attention to a waiting attendant at the entrance to the courtyard. Almas, catching on, speedily made his way over and took in hand the reins of the stunning white charger that Fulgistan had prepared for the new King of Seylos. Bedecked in finery, it was among the most beautiful and robust examples of the Fulgistani horse breed. Pushing his short legs to their absolute limit, Almas speed walked through the parting crowd, reins in hand, and took a wide berth around the @Astriedan party to reach the newly crowned king.

"Your Majesty, it is my honor, on behalf of the Worker's Republic of Fulgistan, to present to you this fine horse, emblematic of our people and our way of life, as our first gift to you as King. If you would permit, we also have brought with us a dancing troupe from Bahinar, as well as the finest chefs in our nation, to entertain and excite your guests. Would you permit them to perform, and to set up a cook-stall on the far side of the courtyard?"

Edited July 27, 2018 by Fulgistan

[Adaptus 318]

Augustus' arrival had been mute. No such commotion was made of his first trip abroad as head of state, let alone as Caesar. He had arrived the night before, quietly, and humbly. He took none of his Principals with him. Just 4 of his angelic assistants. Two male, two female. All unnaturally attractive, and always silent. Never a word was spoke. Along with his aides, came his bodyguard. 4 Hypaspists. As always, clad in their golden cloaks, and armour. And as the aides, physically impeccable, and silent. Always silent. Augustus himself, head arrived in relatively subtle attire. Although his borderline narcissism would't be subdued for long. 

The day of the ceremony, he arrived concealed. A once again muted endeavour. Dressed no different to his aides in traditional white togas. His guards flanking in their usual gold. Before the ceremony began however, he found himself a private spot, and quickly changed. Despite his confidence, he wasn't ready to draw too much attention to himself yet. 

While alone, and getting ready he pondered the other arrivals. He had noted the Tagmatine diplomat, Fillipos. He noted seeing his name in the records. He was the last official from @Tagmatium Rules to see an Adapton head of state. And that was some time ago. Augustus made a note in his mind to make sure he and Fillipos would spend some time together before they left. 

Queen Nova of  @Cristina was also of note. He remembered fondly conversations with her regarding the treaty the two of them had worked on. He would make a point of introducing himself properly to her later. He noted the delegate from @Prymont, and sighed to himself. He'd have rather met a proper dignitary than this artist. Sure his music was of the time. But to Augustus, he was interested in formal relations with the United States, but that wouldn't be with this Foolish Bandit. He also noted the arrival of Dina Diva, of @Variota. He smiled to himself, whilst shaking his head. With another sign he finished tying on his cloak, then raised his golden laurel, and sitting it just under his ruffled hair. . 

Like the Hypaspists, Augustus' clothing was also golden. Although, he wore much, much less. However somehow, as if by some ethereal aura, his cloak, and clothing seemed to outshine that of even his guards. It seemed as is he was outlined by a golden shine. 

Eventually, still staying out of site, he heard his name being called into the ceremony. Quickly, he came out of sight, almost immediately flanked by two of his aides, one male and one female. Both of whom linked either of him arms. He wasn't married, nor had a partner, so he needed something to enter the room. The three of them glided through the doors, as the speaker finished calling his titles. Barely giving a smile as he made his way in.  

Eventually they settled, and the officiating ended. Augustus relaxed. But at the arrival of both a horse and a wolf Augustus couldn't help but feel disappointed. 

"Savages." he thought. "I thought higher of these people." 

And with that, he, flanked by his retinue, made their way to fine the Tagmatine diplomat. 

[Fleur de Lys 283]

A mission alongside the marvellous Ambassador Delphine Leclaire, may only be a leisure party, that’s at least what our good M.A.D.C., or Foreign Minister to make it short, though. After all, she had served many years as Ambassador locally, and was of the same promotion then Richard himself. Naturally she would had evolved, both in her character and behaviour, potentially having a slight accent in fact given her long time in @Seylos, but well, that might be a political advantage if, when she decides to come back to the Metropol, she is willing to seek a politic office.

As always, when a Lysian official travels, the Garde follows. The Faucon 7 used for this smooth travel out of our old Europa continent, would make Richard enjoy a fresh air after having to deal with the failed negotiations with the Sister Republics, which had took him serious time with his counterparts, as they had to figure out a common diplomatic line. Honestly, the obstacles were too many for this to ever work, and fortunately for Richard’s mental health, otherwise he would just have lose his mind and little brain in this affair. For coming back to our dearest Faucon 7, the modern plane of Lysian diplomacy, which were in numbers and travelling throughout Eurth, he shall be welcomed as the protocols calls by the Ambassador Leclaire herself, along with the Ambassador’s escort and the Garde.

Timing had been planned, for allowing the cortege to directly move to the coronation ceremony, allowing the time in the car for the Ambassador and the M.A.D.C. to synchronise fortunately. Personal affairs were to be kept aside, focusing on the current political climate Richard had to impregnate himself in, along the various local protocols and traditions, particularly in such conditions given that a new King shall arise from this ceremony.

Richard had changed suit in the plane, while Leclaire was perfect, this is a quality you may certainly give to those highly qualified Lysians sent to represent the Republic at each corner of the Glob, to inspire and breath Lysian, at least when asked or recommended.

Once inside the very crowned Hall, and the long-calling being done, Richard would just have to turn his head around a bit to see various leaders, certain clients, other strangely luxurious communists, and naturally more then adjectives may qualify. Richard and Leclaire naturally sat next to one another, with the two standing up as it seems to be the tradition, as His Royal Highness passed and entered in the Throne Room. Few exercices, what seems to be rituals were done, and would end up in an anthem to the King being sung in the large space, creating a great sound, all for our two guests’ ears leisure.

« That’s already done? » asked surprised Richard, looking towards Leclaire, as most would move on from the hall. Him, which have been expecting the ceremony to go for hours, just like what he would have read in History Books about great coronations ceremonies, singing and praising the new Monarch during hours, with fireworks during days, along dance and musics being played throughout the country for weeks… « I fear… Yes? » replied with an amused tone Leclaire, as she saw Richard’s disappointment a bit, « But be sure, parties and celebrations are to pursue… For long » she addressed to him, with a wink, before trying to move in front of him, « Now excuse me, but I got a drink to take » she said, as she had remarked the Ministre d’État Durand from Faramount being a bit pressed, taking a drink maybe she thought? After all, he had his reputation. « Wait » stopped Richard, « We have to present our best wishes to the New Monarch, and you, as Ambassador, show your duties » he clarified, as Leclaire halted, « Well, feel free » she said, as she pointed out the number of diplomats making the file just to have a single word exchanged with newly King Aidan Redmond. « Believe me, tchi-tchat, and after we’ll talk to our wonderful host » she addressed him with a wink again, « And be sure, I got all prepared, just have to make a call » she finished, as she pointed out to her phone.

Always as slow after those years, thought Leclaire about Richard, as she would try to reach Durand from @Faramount she had lose a bit in the crowd. After dozens of seconds looking, finally reaching the bar, she would finally rediscover him. « Is Monsieur le Ministre offering me a drink? » she questioned, as she knew he would have tough times forgetting his proper education, particularly following such traditional ceremony. « How is Son Excellence, Monsieur le Président going? » she interestingly asked to the Ministre.

On his side, knowing it would take time before having the chance to address a word to His Majesty, thanks to Leclaire. On his way, he couldn’t stop, but from noticing His Majesty, Augustus III, which certainly had an escort. As Richard approached, he would naturally notice… Let’s say, the muscles of His Majesty, which would make him take a note in his brain to maybe make more physical exercices… Even if he was glad that in Lysian culture, the suit was mandatory, as he would certainly don’t have the same epicness in such dressing then Augustus III. He felt a bit uncomfortable, but would overpass this, as he would try to engage with His Majesty, having made the travel from @Adaptus. « Salutations to your Majesty. It is a pleasure » he first engaged to the Cæsar as he slightly bowed as a sign of respect, knowing that shacking hands would be an offense to His Majesty, as in addition he had an escort, it would be most untimely. Richard certainly would enjoy of the situation, if it was to last, to talk about potentially establishing embassies in both nations, knowing Adaptus very special and rigorous protocols around this matter.

Edited July 26, 2018 by Fleur de Lys

[Prymont 1,067]

Many would ask why Foolish Bandit was sent to represent the United States at the coronation of King Redmond. His go-to answer would be because no party is a proper party without him, but the real truth lay in President George Duval's offices in New Halsham. Upon hearing of the coronation celebration, Duval emailed his secretary, a fresh-faced 20 year old lady, to find a suitable attendee. Of course, Duval was busy. Relations with Seylos were good enough for him not to attend, and so the honour could be delegated to someone else. He'd recommend the Foreign Minister, or perhaps the Culture Minister, to his secretary. Someone within the cabinet for sure, someone with a bit of prestige, but nobody he'd miss too much for one night.

The secretary's attention, however, was elsewhere. After recently discovering Foolish Bandit's real email address through a hacked leak, she was busy typing up a fangirl letter instead of doing what she was paid to do. Upon receiving the email from her boss she panicked, having been suddenly brought back into the real world of working. Quickly she erased her fan mail and began typing for the attention of the Culture Minister, whoever that was - how was she supposed to know? Within minutes she was done, and pressed send. Immediately the realisation made her almost sh*t her pants. She'd forgotten to change who the email was to, and had accidentally requested that Foolish Bandit attend the coronation for the United States.

At first, she was too terrified to tell Duval. He'd kill her! He'd given her one simply task, and she'd f*cked it up. She hadn't even bothered to check who the Culture Minister was! After hiding in the toilets for most of the day pondering what to do, she summoned some courage from thin air and approached the President. His initial reaction was to laugh. Then it dawned on him too. Not to worry though, the entertainer had better things to do and wouldn't bother reading his own emails, right? They'd send a request to the right minister and all would be well. Unfortunately, that's not quite how it panned out. Before the end of the day, Foolish Bandit was on the phone with President Duval, thanking him for this opportunity and promising not to let him down. Surely he wouldn't be too bad. The man was incredibly talented in so many areas, so it was likely he'd have the knack for diplomacy too. Plus he was so excited to go! It'd be a nice night out for him and his partner. As long as he didn't get too drunk and make a fool of himself, Duval would allow it.

 

 

"Don't you feel a bit... out of place?" Natalie whispered to her boyfriend as they endured the crowning of the king. The two celebrities were sat in a sea of heads of states and high-end diplomatic figures, donning a variety of outlandishly styled clothes. Here, people built and destroyed countries through words, while these two, dressed in designer suits and dresses, entertained a few million people for a living.

"Yeah, totally. I mean, who else here earns as much money as us? I bet nobody else has a KAP Umber in their garage."

"Babe, they only made one of those."

"Exactly! Nobody here is like, on our level." Before she could ask him how they'd ended up here in a place where they stuck out like a sore thumb, the ceremony was over and a thunderous round of applause consumed the room. The two found themselves awkwardly clapping along, wondering what'd happened to make so many people start whooping and cheering. When the applause finally died down, everyone began filtering out into the king-size courtyard. The couple sought out the bar, seeking the real reason as to why everyone was here - free, luxurious drinks. Plenty of good alcohol always led to a good time.

"We need to get ourselves a house like this one day. This dude has a f*cking beach for a back garden! And this isn't even his back garden, he probably has another beach in his back garden."

"Where are we going to find a beach in Prymont?"

"I don't know, we'll make one or something. Oh my God, are the f*cking Lysians here? Babe, I know you like your wine, but don't go talk to them about it. You'll end up with your panties around your ankles for some guy who can tell the difference between seven hundred wines by smell. I'll be the first to go to The Peak with the pics, you know that?"

"You think I'd go to bed with one of them? I dated a guy when I studied in Fleur de Lys a few years back. He stunk of onions, acted like he had a stick up his ass the whole time, and cried whenever we went to bed. I wouldn't go near another one of them again, even if you paid me."

"Good. I toured there once. Girls were weird creepy. Kept throwing snails on the stage and wouldn't stop talking gibberish. You know how hard it is to hook up with a fan when they can't talk your language properly? It's such a turn off."

Fearing that her boyfriend would end up crying himself as he continued to recall memories of late nights with Lysian women, Natalie scoured the area for a friendly face. It wasn't hard to find one, as she quickly spotted @Variota's Dina Diva, sporting a ridiculous outfit. "Babe, look, go talk to Dina. I'll wait here."

 

Edited July 26, 2018 by Prymont

[Pallamara 39]

Grand Duke Valentinian III had chosen to arrive with a naval escort aboard the Royal Yacht, Eos, accompanied by the training cruiser PSS Pallamara, accompanied by the frigates PSS Athene and Rhiannon.  (It was considered dreadfully unlucky in Pallamara to name any seagoing vessel after a male figure, and generally warships were named for goddesses from various mythologies.  Even the Pallamara was named for the feminine embodiment of the nation, rather than the country itself) Athene was an air defense vessel, while the Rhiannon was more of a general purpose frigate.  The three vessels had accompanied the Eos not only as a matter of pride, but also in case the Coronation was to include a naval review, which was an event Pallamara wanted to be aptly represented in. Of course, what was discovered was that docking space was to be rather limited, what with all the extra maritime traffic there for the great event, so it was decided only the Eos itself would dock, while the other three vessels remained offshore, far enough to be out of the way, but close enough to arrive in short order if the occasion required it.  

In the meantime, Admiraal van der Vaat, was tasked with keeping everyone busy, since they would be missing the festivities of the coronation going on ashore, so instead it was decided to take advantage of the higher than normal amount of air and naval traffic to test out the surveillance capabilities of the fleet by carefully noting and cataloguing any and all surface, air, or underwater contacts, and using the occasion to run a very high intensity drill, which would involve all vessels being at action stations for days, though he did promise extra shore leave at other ports--if the crews performed to satisfaction, that was.  There was also the chance they might even be able to gather some useful ELINT from other vessels operating in the area, probably also drawn to the area by the same event.

 
The exception to all of this were the Pallamara's cadet corps, who would be transferred via boat and helo to the Eos.  They would take the opportunity to enjoy the celebrations in the city, meet with naval personnel from other nations who might be visiting, and in general have a good time, while absorbing a bit of foreign culture, though they'd be reminded that on this occasion they were representing both their nation and the branch itself, and anyone who screwed this up could expect to spend their naval careers scrubbing out bilges with the most inappropriate tool imaginable.

 

With the transfer completed, the escort would peel off, leaving the Eos to make its way to port.  Notably, Hannah, the Grand Duke's youngest child, stayed aboard the Pallamara, to continue her duties there, where she was a surface-to-Air Weapons Instructor.  All royals were expected to serve in either the armed forces, or the merchant marine, and Hannah had chosen to make a career in the Rijkszeemacht, rather than just serving for long enough to be considered as a candidate for inheriting the throne, as her brother, Karl, the Crown Prince had done in the Laandsweer.  Royals, however, received no special treatment, and in fact, by tradition, tended to be exposed to harsher standards and demands than their peers, meaning she'd had to work twice as hard to attain her present rank, and position, and much to the disappointment of many watching in Pallamara, wouldn't be with her father for the widely covered event, which suited her just fine.  The Instructors on the Pallamara were the very best at their jobs in the fleet, and the upcoming exercise was going to be a challenging one, that would test everyone's skill and endurance, and without the need to mentor the cadets and trainees aboard, would give her chance to put her hard earned proficiency to work in something like a realistic environment.

*************************************************************************************************************************************

  As for the Grand Duke, he arrived in style on the Royal Yacht, but calling it that was a bit of a misnomer, as it was practically a small liner instead, and spacious enough to not only transport the monarch in style, but to hold a variety of museums, concert halls, and other displays of Pallamaran culture, as well as perhaps one of the largest Tiffany Glass collections in the world. Going along with that, she was also noted for her incredibly lush Art Noveux decor, which first time visitors often found disorienting, or even overwhelming.  

In stark contrast to the copious luxury the man surrounded himself with, he was rather plain of dress, and ascetic of temperament, wearing a finely made dark forest green military tunic with matching trousers and a pair of high, riding boots.  The stiff, mandarin style collar and cuffs were bottle green, with only the epaulets, bare of any rank emblems or shoulder-boards, sporting a red-orange color.  Otherwise, there were no medals, emblems of rank, or other decorations, save for the simple order of merit, that of The Blue Rose, which was awarded for charitable and humanitarian work.  Generally speaking, Valentianian eschewed fancy dress feeling that such finery was a form of overcompensation generally exercised by those of lesser accomplishment; he didn't wear such things because he simply didn't *need* to.  He was a powerful, well regarded monarch of a wealthy, prosperous nation; what more did he need?  Still, in deference to the occasion, he did wear a Black "Sam Browne" belt, and the Pallamaran sword of state, which happened to be in the form of a very plain (and it should be said, brutally functional) Pattern 1845 cutlass.  Unlike most such weapons of state, which were little more than jeweled and gilded ceremonial representations of a monarch's power, this specimen's value mostly lie in the workmanship and quality of steel that had gone into it.  The large bowl guard had been styled in such a way to represent the front of the ship, with the blade forming the bowsprit.  Its purpose had been to remind all of the nation's connection to the sea, which was why the form of a cutlass had been chosen, and its lack of gilding or decoration, a reminder to the monarch who wielded it, that ultimately, their power rested not upon gold, but steel.  He himself had added to it in some small way, ordering that a few lines from a poem be discretely engraved upon the blade, which read:

Gold is for the Mistress--Silver for Maid
Copper for the Craftsman, Cunning at his Trade.
"Good!" Spake the Duke, sitting in his Hall,
"But Steel, Cold Steel, is the Master of them All!"

The words had personal meaning to the Grand Duke.  His power rested on many things, the proud tradition of his house, the wealth of the nation, the love of his people, and the wisdom of his reign, but beyond all of that, there was the steel of resolve, and, if it came to that, the steel of arms. The latter, he'd seldom had to exercise, but should the need call for it, that power was at his fingertips--and he'd used it before.  Not in any large, overt way, of course--the monarchy were the defenders of the Constitution, after all, but there had been subtle, select applications here and there, mainly exercised to send a message towards certain special interest groups within the nation, with regard to what would, and would not be tolerated, when said interests pushed their agendas too far.

 
A prearranged chartered limousine had ferried the Grand Duke to the Palace with a small party of aides, which he entered with little fanfare, after having the status of his party confirmed by whatever elements were in place to do that.  In truth, he was really only here to represent Pallamara, at an important event, which was the coronation of King Aidan, not to socialize.  This was Aidan's moment in the sun, not his own, after all, though it might be useful someday in further dealings with the new monarch, to have been known to have taken the time to personally attend the crowning.  

Finding somewhere prominent enough to be visible to the many cameras, but preferring to avoid the company of most of the other foreign dignitaries, particularly so many of them at once, Valentinian and his group would take their places and wait for the affair to commence.