Water Music on the Thames

[Evangeline Anovilis]

"Thank god, I was right." Josephine laughed lightly. "Mistaking someone for you would be quite embarrassing, your Majesty." Then she looked around a bit and answered his question. "Well, it certainly is a nice evening. The food is good, the music fine, only the climate may be a bit overshadowing it. Hopefully no rain or, God prevent, storm will overshadow this ball. It would be quiet terrible for all of us. Don't you agree? From Scotland to Lorraine, a single cloud it'd be." For a moment, Josephine looked at the sky, then at the Queen that was the host of the evening.

[Kevin Kingswell]

Malcolm laughed joyfully as he listened to Josephine before shaking his head to show he wasn't worried. "My dear very few people have met me in person so I wouldn't be offended if people were confused who I was or what I looked like. As to the weather a little rain never hurt anyone in my homeland the rain can get quite bad but it never truly bothers us. Maybe we are just use to it" he said before looking back at the Queen who gave them a little wave and he inclined his head in acknowledgement. "So tell me Josephine how fairs France these days?" he asked.

[Evangeline Anovilis]

Josephine's expression became a bit worried. "Well, France has its troubles. Expenses rise, income falls, a depression one could say. The Valentinists and the lost War of Reclamation haven't done us any good." She shook her head sighingly. "And now, we have to watch out for this climate may doom my grand-fathers rule. Who knows how long his Majesty can hold himself, at his age and with the limited support France enjoys. After all, a storm alone could easily prevent all shipping from and to France..."

[Kevin Kingswell]

Malcolm's smile and laugh quickly sobered as he took notice and he laid a reassuring hand on Josephine's shoulder as he spoke. "I am sorry to hear that my dear I didn't know things had gotten so bad in France. Please let me know if Scotland or even just myself can help in anyway possible." Seeing as how France would be a great ally for Scotland against England and so he was willing to go to some great lengths to help out.

[Evangeline Anovilis]

"Well, I will keep it in mind. Sadly though, you may remember the last letter we sent to you on how things went with our host here. It seems that there will be quite some trouble. I think Scotland will need all ressources it has, for an English flood can barely be countered. And with the Child Queens intrigues, our people are held up at home, forced to watch a border of hundreds of kilometers, to keep our country free of pagan krauts. Compared to us, I think it looks more grim for you still." Josephine looked a bit worried. It was a hard time for France and one day, she would most likely inherit it. The thought made her nervous and so she began to wind her light brown hair around her index finger. But then she moved down her hand quickly and said. "Pardon me, a bad habit of mine. I'm just concerned. The only thing we lack for our misfortune to be complete is, and may God prevent it, the death of my grand-father, for the English are set up to fight a war and the Queen shies not away from the thought of it. We may hold our ground, but I am not confident that France can beat the English in their homeland. In the end, it would be concessions and Scotland would be on their own. It truly is a miserable situation."

[Centurius]

[quote name='Sarah Tintagyl' timestamp='1334507979' post='2953772']
"Well I have to admit, Majesty, that I only hope that England's successes can continue. Our aim is of course unification of the isles, but with the signing of the Northern Alliance with Germany, I'd also like to have some voice on the continent." She spied the French delegation wandering through the party and smiled. "All to maintain closeness with our friends from France."
[/quote]

"Of course, after all you are a part of Europe. It is only proper that you should have a say on the continent at large. Though I must say I kind of object to Europe as the main entity and prefer the point of view of the Eurasian continent yet that is a discussion for another time." Ariadne said. "As for external threats, I fully plan to enforce the promise Mendoza made. Should an external source find its way on the Isles we will not sit back. Though I myself would prefer an individual arrangement between our states in the near future."

[Kevin Kingswell]

"Aye it is true that France could face a harsh time ahead but do not fear my lady, if England was to ever move against France know that you would only have to ask and I would gladly sally our forces to bring their attention back home. As to our future I think the English Queen knows that if she ever tried to invade and occupy the Scottish homeland then the war would be long and bloody though I must ask if it should go against my people do you think my children would be able to seek shelter in your nation my dear?" replied Malcolm as the first trace of concern crept into his voice.

[Evangeline Anovilis]

A light smile came back to Josephines face and she nodded. "Should Scotland ever be in trouble, this is the least France could do. We may be in trouble, but the French shall defend every centimeter of our soil. And if it means to drench the soil in the blood of English and French. And maybe even German. A gruesome statement, especially out of the mouth of a noble Madame, you may think, but such mindset seems necessary in these circles. And in these lands." Josephine looked with a rather distrustful, if nt even hateful glare to the Child Queen. "May I offer the services of some of our technical experts? Scotland is quite a defensible country and the Scots surely know best how to make it a death trap for every Anglian fool, however, maybe French expertise could help a bit. It may not prevent a fall, but it will make sure that the Child Queen pays for it."

[Sarah Tintagyl]

[quote]
"Of course, after all you are a part of Europe. It is only proper that you should have a say on the continent at large. Though I must say I kind of object to Europe as the main entity and prefer the point of view of the Eurasian continent yet that is a discussion for another time." Ariadne said. "As for external threats, I fully plan to enforce the promise Mendoza made. Should an external source find its way on the Isles we will not sit back. Though I myself would prefer an individual arrangement between our states in the near future."
[/quote]

"With the Northern Alliance between ourselves and the German Empire, England is most definitely part of Europe and part of the Continent and I appreciate your help in defending the Isles from aggression, Majesty. Though if you will excuse me, I must pay a visit to my neighboring delegations." Jane said and bowed before walking towards where France and Scotland had their words.

Smiling she looked at Josephine and Malcolm and nodded her head. "Excellencies, how are we this evening. You know I was thinking to myself, Frenchwomen and Scotsmen speaking to each other in hushed voices. Throwing rather spiteful looks my way while I entertain the Empress of Athens." She smirked at Josephine. "Tell me, are you both enjoying yourself?"

[Kevin Kingswell]

[quote name='Sarah Tintagyl' timestamp='1334528982' post='2953909']
"With the Northern Alliance between ourselves and the German Empire, England is most definitely part of Europe and part of the Continent and I appreciate your help in defending the Isles from aggression, Majesty. Though if you will excuse me, I must pay a visit to my neighboring delegations." Jane said and bowed before walking towards where France and Scotland had their words.

Smiling she looked at Josephine and Malcolm and nodded her head. "Excellencies, how are we this evening. You know I was thinking to myself, Frenchwomen and Scotsmen speaking to each other in hushed voices. Throwing rather spiteful looks my way while I entertain the Empress of Athens." She smirked at Josephine. "Tell me, are you both enjoying yourself?"
[/quote]


"Ah the young Queen Jane of East Anglia I am honoured that you would grace us with your presence. As to our conversation I am quite afraid it is of private concern of which does not need to be discussed I am sure you understand. I must say this ball is really quite amazing and may I offer you my personal and Scotland's congratulations on defeating that rebel Duke of Essex. I heard that you yourself dealt the miserable cur the killing blow" replied Malcolm giving the young Queen a deep and respectful bow.

Edited April 15, 2012 by Kevin Kingswell

[Centurius]

Ariadne would turn around to look at the event developing between English, Scots and French. "Is this where they start to fight?"Orpheus asked interested.

Edited April 15, 2012 by Centurius

[Evangeline Anovilis]

"Most certainly, your Majesty. I must say, you have quite some keen eyes to discern me as Frenchwoman. Madame Josephine, my name." Josephine set up a smile. "We were only talking about the weather. After all, isn't England notorious for its rains? But who am I not to congratulate you on bringing your own people into the fold again. I guess England can finally work on external matters now, right? What will be next, if I may ask?" Kindly, Josephine smiled at the Queen she just moments ago glared at. If glares could kill...

[Sarah Tintagyl]

"Private concern between France and Scotland?" she smiled, "Pity that there isn't a German delegation here, I could find a great deal to talk about with Lord Stahl. But yes, Essex is dead and I guess symbolically I did give the !@#$%^& the final blow. However, I'm quite happy you both are enjoying yourself." Jane took a deep breath and looked at Josephine with sparkling eyes. "It's good though that we had this ball now. Such clear weather, don't you think Madam? Though," she sniffed and nodded, "It smells like rain. Possibly a storm, but I love rain. I like sitting out on my balcony and listening to the drops of water hit the ground. I like how the sound of thunder rolls through the clouds. I like it when lightning cracks through the dark sky in the distance. There's just something fascinating about rain."

Then she took another deep breath and looked out from the barge. "Next? That's for private discussion, Madam."

Edited April 15, 2012 by Sarah Tintagyl

[Kevin Kingswell]

[quote name='Sarah Tintagyl' timestamp='1334530268' post='2953920']
"Private concern between France and Scotland?" she smiled, "Pity that there isn't a German delegation here, I could find a great deal to talk about with Lord Stahl. But yes, Essex is dead and I guess symbolically I did give the !@#$%^& the final blow. However, I'm quite happy you both are enjoying yourself." Jane took a deep breath and looked at Josephine with sparkling eyes. "It's good though that we had this ball now. Such clear weather, don't you think Madam? Though," she sniffed and nodded, "It smells like rain. Possibly a storm, but I love rain. I like sitting out on my balcony and listening to the drops of water hit the ground. I like how the sound of thunder rolls through the clouds. I like it when lightning cracks through the dark sky in the distance. There's just something fascinating about rain."

Then she took another deep breath and looked out from the barge. "Next? That's for private discussion, Madam."
[/quote]

"Indeed it is a pity as I have not yet had the pleasure of meeting anyone from Germany though I see a few people here I have not met either" replied Malcolm looking over to the Athenian delegate before turning back to Jane. "However, whilst I have your current attention your majesty I think it is time we had a talk about the future of these British Isles. Don't you agree?" he asked any hint of warmth or friendliness having left his tone of voice.

Edited April 15, 2012 by Kevin Kingswell

[Evangeline Anovilis]

"Well, I hope you will come to a solution to the benefit of both of your countries. If the triste weather hasn't already darkened the mind of the people that have experienced way too much of it." Josephine looked over to the Queen. It was a pity that only her view went overboard... But who was she to voice that disappointment...

[Triyun]

"How come every alternating French regime seems to be stuck in self righteous !@#$%*ing?" Ding said as he leaned back next to Ariadne. "Remember the world class freak out the Angevins had?" he mused with a smirk on his face. "I must say I am jealous, you look to be having all the fun in Europe. I hear there is some fun to be had in the North as well. Any chance a Athenian Army Group has a stomach ache and wants us to go take care of one of the fronts?"

Meanwhile Ryu and Leopold watched the dispute unfolding between the two groups. "Take note." Ryu said. "Do not be stupid in speaking in front of your enemies if you have no practical reason to do so..." he whispered to Leopold out of ear shot.

[Centurius]

[quote name='Triyun' timestamp='1334532075' post='2953939']
"How come every alternating French regime seems to be stuck in self righteous !@#$%*ing?" Ding said as he leaned back next to Ariadne. "Remember the world class freak out the Angevins had?" he mused with a smirk on his face. "I must say I am jealous, you look to be having all the fun in Europe. I hear there is some fun to be had in the North as well. Any chance a Athenian Army Group has a stomach ache and wants us to go take care of one of the fronts?"

Meanwhile Ryu and Leopold watched the dispute unfolding between the two groups. "Take note." Ryu said. "Do not be stupid in speaking in front of your enemies if you have no practical reason to do so..." he whispered to Leopold out of ear shot.
[/quote]

"Probably something in the water." Ariadne said back to Ding as she looked at him. "Well my reports say you should be having some fun in Oceania too, but I am confident there are people in the Third Army that want to go to their families, feel free to take their place so we can go nazi hunting together" A grin would appear on Ariadne's face remembering fond times of hunting down national socialists.

Meanwhile Orpheus turned to Ryu and Leopold. "Also never get involved with two women fighting, very deadly."

Edited April 15, 2012 by Centurius

[Subtleknifewielder]

[quote name='Kevin Kingswell' timestamp='1334484511' post='2953690']
Eimhir did indeed allow Anthony to take her hand and place upon it a kiss which as he did would notice that her hands were not smooth and delicate as one would expect of a princess but were slightly rough and worn as if they had spent many a year holding reigns rather than needlework. As he straightened Eimhir would flash Anthony a coy smile and take a step closer so that by the time he was standing tall she was but a few inches from him though he towered above her slightly and she still hand a firm hold of his hand not having released it. "Why my dear father told me that all english men were nothing but womanising pigs, so it is truly delightful to have him proved wrong" she replied taking his hat from his other hand and placing it upon his brow. "I would be honoured to dance with you my dear" she said leading Anthony over to where the other dancers were.

"As to my name I am Eimhir, princess of Scotland and may I ask of your name handsome" Eimhir asked with a subtle flash of her eyelashes.

Malcolm smiled to inwardly to himself as he watched Eimhir sink her claws into the Earl of Kent and would make sure to ask her about her little dance after the night was done. Still it was time to move onto business and leaving his son to sample the many foods and drinks he carefully and calmly strode over to where Queen Jane sat upon her thrones talking to her guests. Noticing she was still talking with the Athenian delegation he stood where he could both be seen and yet still be a respectful distance away from any conversation they were having. He would stand there until a time that the young Queen was avaliable to talk to.
[/quote]
If Anthony was bothered by the work worn hands of the princess, he certainly didn't let it show. His smile grew all the wider as she answered so favorably. His eyebrows raised a notch at her stepping so close, but he was hardly going to complain, and he chuckled as she put his hat back on his head. Most people thought the thing ridiculous, he knew, but he was rather fond of it. That there was someone else who did not mind (or at least pretended not to), someone pleasing to the eye, to boot, was a bonus. "It is I who would be honoured by a dance...oh, please do forgive me, I should have introduced myself upon addressing you. I am Anthony Grey, the lowly Earl of Kent."

He patted the back of her hand with his free one, then placed it on her waist. But even as he readied for the dance, he was watching for any sign of a reaction that indicated recognition...if perhaps she would make the connection of his having the same family name as the Queen.

[Kevin Kingswell]

[quote name='Subtleknifewielder' timestamp='1334534919' post='2953971']
If Anthony was bothered by the work worn hands of the princess, he certainly didn't let it show. His smile grew all the wider as she answered so favorably. His eyebrows raised a notch at her stepping so close, but he was hardly going to complain, and he chuckled as she put his hat back on his head. Most people thought the thing ridiculous, he knew, but he was rather fond of it. That there was someone else who did not mind (or at least pretended not to), someone pleasing to the eye, to boot, was a bonus. "It is I who would be honoured by a dance...oh, please do forgive me, I should have introduced myself upon addressing you. I am Anthony Grey, the lowly Earl of Kent."

He patted the back of her hand with his free one, then placed it on her waist. But even as he readied for the dance, he was watching for any sign of a reaction that indicated recognition...if perhaps she would make the connection of his having the same family name as the Queen.
[/quote]

The princess continued to smile at the Earl putting her charms to use to keep his attention focused on her and when Anthony did mention his name the only sign of recognition was a brief fleeting blink of her eyelashes as she put the name to memory though she outworldly showed no sign and made no word of his name. "My handsome Earl do not put yourself down I am sure Kent is a lovely place and they are lucky to have you as their Earl. Now let us dance." Taking Anthony's hands she led him out onto the dance area and began a simple and gentle dance to the accompanying music and she would constantly allow her shoulders, hands or waist to brush against the young man to ensure his attention remained on her.

After a short time dancing together Eimhir would place both hands on Anthony's shoulders so that he had no choice but to stare into her face and she flashed him a tempting smile as she spoke. "My dear Earl of Kent I must confess I know little about East Anglia and I was wondering whilst we danced the night away you could tell me more about this wonderful land."

[Kankou]

As the Grand Papuan representative, the Zeonist Military Adviser Afranche Zarn Deikun would arrive at the ball quietly. Aside from sipping his drink, he would remain rather quiet, listening to the various conversations. His specific focus would be on Ding, someone he was quite familiar with. As expected, the hegemonists were plotting someone, something which would never succeed, no doubt.

Afranche continued his quiet enjoyment of the ball, his old-fashioned red uniform and long blond hair not out of place.

[Sarah Tintagyl]

[quote name='Kevin Kingswell' timestamp='1334530564' post='2953924']
"Indeed it is a pity as I have not yet had the pleasure of meeting anyone from Germany though I see a few people here I have not met either" replied Malcolm looking over to the Athenian delegate before turning back to Jane. "However, whilst I have your current attention your majesty I think it is time we had a talk about the future of these British Isles. Don't you agree?" he asked any hint of warmth or friendliness having left his tone of voice.
[/quote]

"I thought the same thing, perhaps a few days after the ball, when things return to normal we could schedule such a meeting. I'd like to meet with you and the rulers of Wales, Northumbria, and Cornwall. We cannot have fighting in Britain, there has been far too much bloodshed already. I have every bit of confidence that we will come to an agreement on our future." She smiled and bowed her head. "King Malcolm, Madam Josephine, good day to you both." Jane said and started walking away from them to see others who were gathered at the ball.

[Evangeline Anovilis]

As the Queen left, Josephine exhaled deeply. "Mon Dieu, well, my offer from before still stands. And I hope your negotiations with the English go well. It'd be rather bad if not." Josephine then said, looking to Malcolm again.

[Captain Enema]

Sir Hawkwood notes the conversation between Queen Jane and the Scots. As the French do not exist as a serious consideration to Sir Hawkwood beyond a mere parody routine in the lower class theaters of London; he deems it wise to refrain from even noticing their existence. This has the immediate effect of mightily brightening his mood.

Now that the Scot's have once again been found to be a nuisance to all of England, Sir Hawkwood reminds himself that diplomacy works best when one doesn't draw a blunderbuss, and open fire on the offending party. No matter how delicious the fantasy may well be, it just doesn't pay to blast away at the Scots over the long run as their smell will still linger in the carpets no matter how much you scrub them. He turns away and returns to his wife's side and takes up their conversation as it was before.

Edited April 16, 2012 by Tidy Bowl Man

[Subtleknifewielder]

[quote name='Kevin Kingswell' timestamp='1334535452' post='2953974']
The princess continued to smile at the Earl putting her charms to use to keep his attention focused on her and when Anthony did mention his name the only sign of recognition was a brief fleeting blink of her eyelashes as she put the name to memory though she outworldly showed no sign and made no word of his name. "My handsome Earl do not put yourself down I am sure Kent is a lovely place and they are lucky to have you as their Earl. Now let us dance." Taking Anthony's hands she led him out onto the dance area and began a simple and gentle dance to the accompanying music and she would constantly allow her shoulders, hands or waist to brush against the young man to ensure his attention remained on her.

After a short time dancing together Eimhir would place both hands on Anthony's shoulders so that he had no choice but to stare into her face and she flashed him a tempting smile as she spoke. "My dear Earl of Kent I must confess I know little about East Anglia and I was wondering whilst we danced the night away you could tell me more about this wonderful land."
[/quote]
Oh, this one was definitely worth watching, in more ways than one. Being a young man, he of course reacted to Eimhir the way she wished him to--his attention was entirely on her, on the dance with her. Of course, he might have remained focused on her regardless of her efforts; he hadn't been lying in calling her a 'lovely vision.' Added to that, she was graceful for someone who had spent years riding in the saddle, instead of with more 'womanly' arts. So, he enjoyed the dance with her.

During the dance, his broad smile lessened, though not not precisely diminished, to something a little gentler, more relaxed. When that dance ended, he almost looked disappointed, but his one visible eye blinked as she practically forced him to look at her. He raised his eyebrows again as she spoke, asking about the nation. He shrugged, his expression displaying just the faintest hint of sheepishness. "To be honest, my fair lady, I do not know of much beyond my own Earldom. Unfortunately I must spend a great deal of time with the responsibility of administering my holdings." He sighed regretfully. "Much to my regret. To be honest, I do not envy the Queen her crown."

[Kevin Kingswell]

[quote name='Evangeline Anovilis' timestamp='1334539164' post='2953991']
As the Queen left, Josephine exhaled deeply. "Mon Dieu, well, my offer from before still stands. And I hope your negotiations with the English go well. It'd be rather bad if not." Josephine then said, looking to Malcolm again.
[/quote]

"Hmmph we shall see about that my dear, I fear that conflict lies ahead for Scotland and East Anglia though we shall have to see how these negotiations go first. However, for now we should enjoy this ball could I offer you a drink my lady?" replied Malcolm offering her a hand and pointing with the other to a nearby table ladden with refreshments and food.


[quote name='Subtleknifewielder' timestamp='1334567095' post='2954196']
Oh, this one was definitely worth watching, in more ways than one. Being a young man, he of course reacted to Eimhir the way she wished him to--his attention was entirely on her, on the dance with her. Of course, he might have remained focused on her regardless of her efforts; he hadn't been lying in calling her a 'lovely vision.' Added to that, she was graceful for someone who had spent years riding in the saddle, instead of with more 'womanly' arts. So, he enjoyed the dance with her.

During the dance, his broad smile lessened, though not not precisely diminished, to something a little gentler, more relaxed. When that dance ended, he almost looked disappointed, but his one visible eye blinked as she practically forced him to look at her. He raised his eyebrows again as she spoke, asking about the nation. He shrugged, his expression displaying just the faintest hint of sheepishness. "To be honest, my fair lady, I do not know of much beyond my own Earldom. Unfortunately I must spend a great deal of time with the responsibility of administering my holdings." He sighed regretfully. "Much to my regret. To be honest, I do not envy the Queen her crown."
[/quote]

"I see it is of no matter and I find it charming that you dedicate so much time to your people they must love and appreciate you very much. Tell me is their a lady of Kent in your life my dear Earl?" replied Eimhir slyly before leading the Earl into a slow and gentle dance as she did she pulled him off to one side of the barge away from most of the other guests. This way she could talk to Anthony in private without anyone else being able to interfere or to overhear, rasiing one eyebrow she inclined her head as Anthony mentioned the crown. "Why do you say that Anthony? Is the Queen in some sort of difficulty?"