«DRESS ME UP AND WATCH ME DIE»

[Sonderous Jay]

The city's streets were bustling, filled to the brim with passer-bys, merchants shouting, advertising their wares ranging from fruits to textiles and of course the cheers of crowds gathered at the corners of streets to watch the performers. The market had its' own distinct smell. The combination of spices, fabrics and of course the salt of the sea. The princess, face covered in a plain silk veil, enough to hide the bottom half of her face, simply appearing as though she's ready for the desert's next dust storm. Holding onto her guide through the dense crowds, only pulling the man back to stop and watch a series of monkeys performing tricks, directed by their owner, listening to the 'oohs' and 'aahs' of the audience of children. Her guide though, was not as keen for them to sit and watch, he tugged her along, eventually reaching the outer walls of the palace, specifically the guard's entrance for her to enter from, and after a brief goodbye, she was off into the guards halls pulling the silk veil off her face and removing the scarf over the top of her head to let her hair loose, letting the natural waves fall loose as she made her way to her room, sneaking through the halls, walking into her room to the familiar voice of her handmaiden calling after her in the complex tongues of Anacreon's native language. "Where have you been, girl? You were to be ready an hour ago and presentable to your father before he leaves for the North castle in twenty minutes." As she approached Aashi, she took a finger tilt the girl's chin up and look at her face. "Insa'an, you look like you've been in the dust, you'll have to have a bath now."

Freshly bathed and made up to have her appearance up to her reputation Aashi fastened the back of her earrings, watching the maids run back and forth in the hallway from the reflection in the mirror, a small smile on her lightly glossed lips. Her guests were to arrive today, and though she wasn't going to the pier to collect them, she wanted to welcome them upon their arrival to the house. Her dress highlighted a golden top, revealing her stomach and a long red skirt, covered in a pattern of intricate gold beading reaching her toes even with the heels of her shoes. She picked up her long sheer gold scarf, placing it over her one shoulder and draping it across her body. Though the fabrics were slightly heavy with their embellishments, the fabric itself was light and allowed for the desert's winds to cool her down in all of its heat. Thankfully the majority of her guests would be arriving this evening, allowing for the cool evenings to let them adjust and enter the city comfortably rather than the scorching heat of the day. In addition to that, she only had to see off her father and mother now, rather than addressing the strangers yet. She only knew their names at this point, as expected of a good host, though made sure to check each room on her own to ensure arrangements were made. They were each left a series of scarves to use if they ventured outside in the time of a dust storm along with light clothes and of course, servants ensured there would be a ready pitcher of cold water in their rooms along with cups as with the heat, it's crucial to ensure that they drink enough water when they visit.

She left them each with a brief bow, a hug and a kiss on the cheek, ensuring she'd keep the palace in proper shape and treat their guests with care. And after seeing off her parents came the worst part, waiting in the courtyard for her guests to arrive. The second courtyard backed the water and it was easy to see the ships coming in to the docks especially the ones flying flags that were not from Anacreon. Those were fascinating to watch, each ship in its own style from that country, and given the nautical aspects that existed in Anacreon, she was able to occupy herself for most of her childhood watching the horizon over the clear blue waters as boats came in and left on adventures she couldn't join them on, but liked to daydream of them anyway. What were her guests like? What stories and adventures did they have to share?

 

[fish-writer]

in all chaos there is calculation

The heat was stifling, the oppressive air mitigated by neither the wind off the ocean nor the setting sun. Cassander had shed his silk shirt and hose on the ship in a frustrated, uncomfortable fit of overheating, retaining only his pearl-beaded shawl and gilded, shimmering skirt. His caramel blonde hair was pulled up into an artfully messy twist secured by two long ivory pins, loose strands falling down to brush the tops of his shoulders, and he had been forced to wash the gold makeup from his face after his perspiration had drawn gleaming lines from his cheek to his jaw, but he retained the kohl rimming his sky blue eyes and the lily pink flush on his lips. He did, after all, still want to make as much of an impression as he could. The Szydonian ship, flying its gold and navy flag, was quite small, particularly compared to the ships of the other visiting nations, but there was no need to use a massive ship for a delegation that consisted only of himself, his father, and a miniscule number of his trusted guards. His mother remained at home, ensuring that no trouble arose in their absence. She had a mind made for schemes and betrayal, while his father preferred things straight-forward, making her objectively the best choice to stay behind in a country stewed in cutthroat ambition.

The sea voyage had left him woefully rattled, his first long journey over open ocean, and Cassander's ever-present smile had been slightly pained when he had stepped onto the pier and fought down a swell of nausea as the world seemed to rock beneath him. Ambient sounds of chatter in an unfamiliar language rose and fell around him, and though he tried to focus in on common words or phrases, it was too new and too complex for him to begin making any sense of it. Instead, he began to examine the people themselves, the groups that were to escort them to their respective palaces: the way they held themselves, how they interacted with their guests and each other, their colouring and fashion.

In quiet Szydonian, Cassander bade his father farewell, his posture relaxed but regal, straight-backed and broad-shouldered, head tilting downward in an approximation of a bow. Tzar Anatoliy Nikandros fixed him with an intense stare, as if trying to drill down past his son's cheerful countenance, but it was an exercise in frustration, and he simply clapped him fondly on the shoulder before departing, leaving Cass with his own destination ahead of him. He turned to follow his own escort to the palace where he would be staying while his father talked politics with the other kings and queens of the world. Though it pained him not to be a part of the discussions, he knew there were other, perhaps better, ways to achieve his goals.

The later the evening grew, the more tolerable the temperature, and he found his smile significantly less strained, the salt-scented breeze kissing his skin with cool relief. Cassander had always liked Anacreon, in theory. Their textiles were highly sought after in Szydonia by all the best designers, the quality unquestionable. The chiffon of his skirt was of Anacreon, which was one of the reasons he had chosen it. Indeed, it managed the heat far better than cheaper Szydonian silk. Still, he wished vaguely that this conference had been held at a location a little less tropical, the temperature still hotter than he'd ever experienced at home. It clung to his skin, laid heavy in his lungs. His features remained peaceful, posture still confident, but he was looking forward to gracelessly chugging water and submerging himself into a cold bath as soon as he was able.

Cassander was led to a sprawling courtyard, where his gaze was abruptly arrested by the sight of a woman with intense dark eyes and an unmistakably regal bearing. His smile widened, warmth spreading over his face before he dropped into a shallow bow at the waist. "Your royal highness," he greeted, then straightened to meet her stare. "It is an honour to finally meet you. I am Cassander Nikandros of Szydonia, and I deeply appreciate your hospitality in allowing me to stay here during the conference." He was far enough away that he could see and appreciate the complex beading on her skirt without scandalously lowering his gaze, noting the sophistication of her clothes. Consciously assessing her, his eyes lingering intently on her face, he thought he could see light in her eyes, a warmth to her. Perhaps she would be an easy friend.

interactions | the anacreon princess @Sonderous Jay ​

his serenity cassander nikandros, smiling prince of szydonia

 

[DANAsaur]

Crown Princess of Eberlin

The sailing ship of Eberlin blossomed at the ocean of Anacreon, with sails as pretty as any petals, bluish in compliment to the sky and waves. The rest was all as trustworthy as any oak of the land, warm browns that could remind anyone of home and hearth, of those quiet family evenings when jokes rise and swirl as eddies in the water. The Eberlin flag made of blues and golds fluttered proudly against the wind, signaling the arrival of the Fille royals.

Seated in her own cabin as everyone starts to descend, the crown princess of Eberlin named Astrid looked out of the window and sighed. The ocean had always conjured comforting ideas into her head. Whenever she was frazzled in the head, she would close her eyes and imagine diving right in feeling the cool caress of the brine. But on the fateful day of meeting the other royals for the conference, she was not at ease.

Her heart twisted and sunk with nerves as she tried to gain control, but nothing was working. Every time she remembered the argument she had with her mother, the Empress, her heart was filled with worry. She needed the meeting with the young royals to go as smoothly as possible. After all, the future of Eberlin is in her hands. Her country is known for trading extensively via merchants from all over the world and for their craftsmanship of windowpane oyster lamps, pearls, and textiles weaved with gold. If Astrid establishes a good relationship during her stay, then the future of her country will be safe.

"I have to be friends with them." Astrid whispered under her breath while clasping her hands together "I cannot disappoint my parents nor my country."

Astrid was pulled out of her thoughts when the sound of her cabin door opening filled the air, followed by heavy footsteps against the hard wooden floor. A guard entered the room and immediately, Astrid composed herself before standing straight. It was time for her to present herself to the people waiting for their arrival. Thus, she needed to be perfect.

When the crown princess of Eberlin came out of her cabin and walked out of the ship, she immediately felt the heat. It was midday, the worst time to arrive at Anacreon. She was already sweating even before she had reached the last step of the docks, and its starting to make her feel irritable. Her long ebony black hair that was pinned into a simple yet elegant bun loosened a little because of the salty wind, loose strands already sticking at the side of her face. The tiara made of pearls sitting atop of her head suddenly felt heavy while her dark orchid sash embroidered with gold made her feel very hot under the harsh rays of the sun. Already, she wanted to go home. But one glance at the Empress immediately dismissed her thoughts. The Empress was smiling so sweetly at the people of Anacreon while waving her hand so elegantly, not a hint of annoyance or irritation visible at her mother's face. This only proved how true her mother's thoughts about her: that she'll be nothing but a disappointment if she keeps this up. Thus, Astrid mustered up all her energy and put on the sweetest smile she can.

Not a moment too soon her mother bid her adieu with a smile, leaving Astrid alone with shivers running down her spine. To the people of Anacreon, the Empress' smile looked real, full of warmth and sweetness. But to the Fille royalty, it has a quite distinct meaning.

The royal guards they brought stood tall behind her but Astrid tried to ignore their presence by requesting to her escort to tour her around Anacreon first before bringing her to the palace. The guide was more than pleased to accomplish her request and took the long walk to their destination.

Her guide brought her to the market place.

A lost child wailed for his mother, a man frantically searched for his missing dog, shopkeepers screamed out offers on the top of their voices to attract customers and customers desperately tried to bargain for the best possible prices. The guide explained to Astrid that this was Anacreon's market, a place which was always drowning in the sea of people. Not a single empty place could be spotted between the stalls. Some held a hand against their forehead to shield themselves from the sun, others made fans out of newspapers or magazines. Astrid let out a genuine smile as she followed the guide around, the sweltering heat already was forgotten. Although the sun mercilessly shone down upon the market and beads of sweat glistened on everyone's forehead that made many faces turned red, Astrid quite enjoyed it. The marketplace was very different from the market of Eberlin and this made her want to explore even more. The salty odor of sweat mingled with the nose-tingling aroma of spices and the sweet smell of flowers coming from the florist's shop. All of these smells mixed together gave the market a rather unique scent. A scent she can never find in Eberlin.

Soon, her little side trip came to an end when her palace guards almost threatened the guide to finally lead her to the courtyard of the palace. Astrid had no choice but to pick up her heavy dark orchid skirt and walked around a bit faster, now realizing that she might have wasted time and might give the wrong impression if she arrived late.

Thankfully when she arrived at the courtyard, there were only two royalties there. One was the unmistakable princess of Anacreon and the other was the prince of Szydonia. For a moment she was thankful to her mother for forcing her to study the portraits of the other royals she's about to meet and be friends with.

Straightening her skirt and making sure she looks immaculate, she made her way gracefully towards the two and curtsied.

"Your Majesties" she greeted with a smile before standing up to meet their gaze "I am Astrid Fille, the crown princess and future empress of Eberlin."

She then signaled for one of her royal guards to come forward and to present a box made of windowpane oyster wrapped in the finest gold Eberlin silk. "I brought a gift in exchange for your hospitality. I do hope you'll like it"

If the princess of Anacreon decides to take the box and open it, she will see a necklace made out of the finest black pearls of Eberlin.

---

Interactions:
Princess of Anacreon | Sonderous Jay
Prince of Szydonia | fish-writer​

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☼

 

[ʜᴇʀᴍɪɪᴛ]

Hidden by the darkness that was his umbrella, the Governor continually recoil at the rays of sunlight that penetrated his sunglasses. His body was not used to the new rays of light and heat that were burning every patch of skin he unintentionally showed off. Prince Aeron had already slept a total of 19 hours aboard the hull of his countries ship, the approaching dread of communicating with his fathers associates hanging in the air. Whenever Aeron wanted to avoid his duties, he would fall asleep and avoid all contact for as long as possible. However, these plans were often thwarted by his countless guards that insisted he follow orders. Despite the hours of sleep, Aeron still sported a lovely pair of heavy eye bags, each one making his eyes stand out against his rather vampiric pale skin.

With the hot sands that were minutes way from, Aeron could feel the hot leather that encased his legs become slick with moisture. The smart decision would be to go back down to his quarters and change to accommodate for this new terrain, but he was a man who wanted to keep up his appearance. He didn't want to look uncomfortable in what he wore, but rather confident and at home. This was all very contradictory, but the man didn't care. Already he received certain looks from his 'body guard', however that certain gaze would not be tolerated. Pretty soon all contact was cut short by the dangerous glint that danced across Aeron's eyes. Red gloves tightened around the handle of his umbrella once the ship began to make its descent toward the docks surrounding the country of Anacreon. Logically, Aeron would take in his surroundings before diving onto the land before him, but since he was desperate to get out of this scorching sun, he took his chances.

His golden curls seemed to glow whenever the sunlight would touch them, giving him a welcoming look. But this was cancelled out by the darkness that just seemed to flow off him. Quickly, Aeron's eyes snapped to the compulsory welcoming party that were mere steps away from the docks. To his surprise, they all looked very different to the way his own countries inhabitants dressed. There were smiles all around and bright hues… he wasn't home. All he had to remember where he'd come from was the dark clothes he wore, the dark metal that held his ship together and the sunken faces of his guards, now that was a comforting sight to him. Despite all this home sickness he felt, Aeron turned his head to address his closest Guard. "Bloody Oath it's hot here… reminds me why we left Brisbane in the first place" he murmured, his eyes still suspiciously glaring at anybody who were looking curiously in his direction. Aeron didn't like it here, yet.

Aeron flexed his hands and allowed for the leather to stretch against his joints, if he was going to make an entrance, he best do it now. With a quick grunt, Aeron gestured for his men to follow close behind him. He didn't want to show off that he was uncomfortable here, so he took everything in a comfortable stride. He remembered what his father had said to him, to try and exploit others kindness when you could, but with the tiny crowd that was forming already, Aeron imagined that he wouldn't need to implement any of this just yet. Aeron only hoped that he could find some familiar faces to make this day run by smoothly.

He supposed that it would be worth his while to wander over to the princess who had helped plan this meet up of royalty. This was out of character for him, yet he knew deep down that the sooner this was completed, the sooner he could retire to his quarters and recover from this immense heat. Aeron had to be realistic though, there was no escaping the heat.

At the end of his train of thought, Aeron decided to stay back, allowing for others to approach the princess before himself. Despite having his own royal title, he knew when he was out of place. He owned a prison for heavens sake, it wasn't much of a kingdom. All he had back on Cold Water was his high maximum security prison, his subjects a variety of criminals that ether deserved to be there or were wrongly accused. It was a tough business but nothing like a kingdom. Aeron always brushed this off though, proud of the little world he had created on his small state.

lieutenant colonel aeron malvolia

love cal

 

[persephone.]

GIVE ME ARMS TO PRAY WITH

INSTEAD OF ONES THAT HOLD TOO TIGHTLY

ASRA MORENO

24 YEARS OLD

SHE / HER / HERS

KHATUN OF AYNOR

CLICK FOR PLAYLIST

LOYAL / VAGUE / STOIC

Asra had always loved the water. Sure, there were moments when she feared being lost forever in the endless depths of the sea. But what was life without a little risk? Not that going sailing was really a risk, at least not anymore. If this ship wasn't safe, she and her father would have never boarded it. Gods, where was she going with this? She could have sworn she had a point. Not that it really mattered, no one could read minds. Or could they? Earth to Asra, get a grip. She rubbed her eyes and braced her forearms on the railing.

There was a lot riding this for her, for her country. It wasn't a surprise to anyone that their coffers were nearly empty. They were a simple people, yes, but a bankrupt government would only lead to more problems for her people. She'd sell every stitch of clothing she had if it would help her people. But it wouldn't, not really. She worried her bottom lip between her teeth, she'd been tossing around this problem for ages. There were those in the court, and among the population, who believed that the lack of money was a sign that the Gods were upset with them for turning away from their traditional ways. Asra thought it was a load of bullshit. It was a problem her father had inherited from his grandfather, a problem she would inherit one day, and one day soon at that. Despite all the effort they have been putting into trying to resolve the poor state of their country's finances, they have barely been able to keep their heads above the water. Despite the financial ruin that loomed in the horizon, they benefited from settled civilization, for the most part at least. Sure, they was a growing disconnect between modern Aynor and the traditional values, but having cities that don't move around over night was a benefit. It allowed for specialization in occupations, the ability to build something to leave behind for their children. This was elementary stuff, it was hard to understand how people couldn't grasp it.

A hand closed around her bare upper arm, causing Asra to jump. Her father smiled at her, the wrinkles by his eyes becoming more pronounced with the action. "Did I scare you, my heart?" She returned his smile and looped her arm through his. The sunlight illuminated his dark hair, the grey streaks in his hair shone like spun silver. Asra could remember a time when the highlights in his ebony hair shone like gold. Every passing moment seemed to age him a year.
"Just lost in thought. Is everything alright?" He squeezed her hand and led her to the bow of the ship. The crew bustled around them, moving like a well-oiled machine. There was something soothing about it. Being surrounded by people who knew what they were doing and weren't plotting a political assassination at any given moment. She was grateful for the life being a Khatun gave her, but she'd give anything to be a normal person. To have the ability to get on a ship and sail away if she chose, and go somewhere where no one knew her.
"Your head has been so far in the clouds you didn't hear the men yelling?" The horizon peaked over the bow. Instead of the deep blue of the ocean vanishing out of sight, land stretched beyond what the eye could see. "We're here."


Emotions warred within her as she stepped off the ship and into Anacreon. She'd never seen anything like it. It was... beautiful, lively, like something from a movie. It filled her with excitement and dread and several other things she couldn't name. If her father wasn't holding onto her arm, she probably would have dashed off. Where to, she wasn't sure. She also didn't really care. She only grew more restless as they entered the palace. Her father placed a kiss to her temple and left her. All alone, she felt her heart climb her throat. Her mind fell down an endless spiral of what ifs. What if she wasn't dressed well enough? This was her finest dress that was appropriate for the climate. It was simple, just a sheath dyed a deep blue and embroidered in silver thread around the edges. What if the others didn't like the gifts she had brought? Should she have brought gifts at all? It was a fruitless show of wealth, if they were truly smart they would have sold the merchandise instead. But that would be rude, to show up empty handed, right? Oh, Gods, what if they took it as an insult? She clasped her hands in front of her before anyone noticed they had begun to shake. Breathe, just breathe. She kept a distance from the others, grateful for the time to compose herself. Even if it was just a moment.

.

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[Iceydaze]

Donovan .E. Reed

Donovan awoke with a start. His heart races as if in an attempt to escape the nightmare he had just woken from. His thoughts lag, still stuck in dreamland while his eyes struggle to take in the sight before him. It takes the gentle crashing of the waves to remind him that he is not back home. Clammy hands lined with a coat of cold sweat gradually loosen their deathhold on the sheets as relief washes over him. At ease, his heart rate slows and he releases a soft sigh. "I guess that's what I get for sleeping in."

Uncomfortable with the notion of getting any more sleep than he already had, he quickly crawls out of bed. Warm brown eyes scan the cabin for a set of clean clothes to change into after a quick bath. As if on cue, someone knocks on the door, making him wonder how long they had been standing out there waiting for him to wake up.

Donovan opens the door to reveal none other than one of his mother's close maids. She silently hands him a satchel and leaves with a polite bow. Opening up the bag, Donovan finds a fresh set of clothes and an envelope sealed with the queen's wax seal, her flowery insignia glaring at him like a stain on the smooth off-white envelope it rested on. Retreating into the safety of his cabin, Donovan grabs the note and tosses the satchel on his bed. Reading it over, he remains indifferent to its contents.

To my Sweet Donovan,

I didn't have the heart to wake you and your father was in such a rush to head out. Forgive us for leaving without you. I did, however, manage to pick out an outfit for you, darling. I just know you'll love it.

We do hope you won't be asleep long. If you could arrive before the others, that would be for the best. I'll miss you dearly.

Love,
Cordelia

He carefully reread it to make sure he didn't miss a thing. It seemed his mother was in a rush to head out. Donovan stuffed the letter back into the envelope and opened the window, tossing it out for the sea to do with it as it wished. With that out of the way, he grabbed the bag and left to take a nice long bath.

~

An hour later and he departs from the ship dressed in a dark blue silk dress shirt with crystallized trim and a pair of tight leather pants. A choker with his mother's insignia remains on display around his neck and he wears several rings on his fingers which pickpockets eye almost hungrily from their dirty little corners. Donovan double checks his pockets to make sure he didn't forget anything important before looking back at the Lucalian ship once more. It was a massive and complete waste of funds. He would never understand those who foolishly flaunted these kinds of things. The prince could only wonder what they were overcompensating for.

His escort approaches him in the meantime with a warm welcome. A polite nod and the simplest of greetings later, he followed them without so much as another word. Off they went onto the streets where a vast array of colors and lively civilians grabbed at his interest. If you could judge a dog's owner by looking at the dog itself, the same could be said with rulers and their people. The atmosphere was obnoxiously bright yet a beautiful sight to behold. Aside from a few hagglers here or there trying to snag a bargain, all was at peace.

Not even five minutes in and his forehead is already coated in a thin layer of sweat. The heat is smoldering, almost suffocating. If this is how it was in the evenings, Donovan couldn't imagine how much worse the day would be. In Lucalia the summers were hot but short to the point where his body had never adjusted to this kind of heat. By the time they reached the palace, he was parched. He wanted nothing more than a glass of cold water and another bath as he was now drenched in sweat to the point where his silk shirt clung onto him uncomfortably and his legs started to tingle with a mild burning sensation. His red hair, which was styled just moments ago, was now in disarray from his attempt to cool off by running a hand through it repeatedly. It was all to no avail and he looked a complete mess from the short trip alone.

Although he looked and felt miserable, his curious brown eyes continued to wander, amazed at the differences between his own country and Anacreon. Looking nothing more than a lost child, he was finally lead into the courtyard where a few others were already present. 'Well, there goes mother and father's hopes.' He thought to himself, somewhat amused at this. Not one to draw too much attention to himself, he silently joined the rest and lightly bowed to them in greeting before turning to their host, the princess of Anacreon. "It is a pleasure, Princess. I am Donovan of Lucalia. Thank you for having us. I look forward to the coming days." Donovan bowed respectfully. His gentle smile was like sunshine yet his gaze was composed and distant. Judging by the state he was in, it was clear, he wanted to be anywhere but there. Looking over the others, Donovan couldn't help but marvel at their ability to stay cool.

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Location:
Role:
Interactions:

Ship>Courtyard
Prince of Lucalia. Donovan Ellis Reed
Aashi @Sonderous Jay

 

[altai]

anacreon was a country rome was quite familiar with. having done frequent business with the country, the soldier prince came to knew it well. he also became intimate with the climate of the country, particularly in the time rome and his sister vera had been invited to visit. he had called for his lighter uniform to be set out for the journey to anacreon, well aware that even with the lightweight and breathable material, he would be sweating as if he had been sent to hell.

which, to rome, it was as if he had.

kheria was a close enough country that the need not exist for traveling by sea. instead, rome traveled by land with his sister in a car, a life of luxury with padded seating and air conditioning. however it didn't last the entire trip, as the form of transportation morphed from the comfortable innards of a automobile to the jarring movements of a weather-inclined horse. by this point rome could see the wavering shape of anacreon's capital in the far distance, the heat waves blurring the colorful buildings of the city.

readjusting the light-colored scarf wrapped around his head, rome cast a quick look across the path at his twin sister riding beside him. kheria was the only country rome knew of to have twin successors to the throne. it was well-talked-about in their own country and something the prince hated. there was never a moment that competition and superiority didn't rule his life, everything from manners and diplomats to fight styles and brutality measured in terms of whether rome or vera had done it better.

riding into the bright, bustling capital of anacreon, rome's eyes roamed slowly, a calculative glint in the coffee-brown hues as he took the lively lifestyle of the anacreons in. although it hadn't been rome's first time within the country itself, he hadn't ever had the chance to explore anacreon's capital city as he did now. shifting in his seat to look over at his sister, rome slowed his horse to match her stride, his eyes shifting back to the path ahead of them as they neared the port, where their escort was said to be waiting.

"let's not pass up this opportunity to view anacreon as a whole so freely, yes?" rome murmured in kherianese, spotting the flags of szydonia, eberlin, ordus, aynor, and lucalia flapping in the hot, salty ocean breeze.

love cal

 

[taeya]

braid stars within your hair as the moon kisses you goodnight ☆

Indra Rinne Vala'thalin
Heir to the throne of Florentia

Morning sun was always something the young heiress loved waking too. As soft, golden light trickled it's way into the wooden room. Drawn curtains, sheer white, couldn't shut out the warmth, no matter how much Indra wished they would. She was never one to dislike the heat, just sometimes waking up in her own sweat was a turn off. Other than that, the heiress enjoyed looking out at the rising sun. Watching the sky burst to life in exotic colors, washing away the night.

Indra shook off the sheer blanket she had been using to sleep with, pj's shifting as she crawled out of her bed. She crossed the threshold that was her room, pulling the heavy ship door open with a creak. She took in a deep breath of fresh, morning air. Her lungs expanded with the breath, blood pumping to reach every end possible with the warm oxygen. Even the overwhelming smell of salt from the sea didn't faze the heiress. It just made Indra appreciate the cold of the breeze that followed. She could put up with the taste of salt sticking to her tongue as long as that cool air caressed her. Coffee brown eyes glanced upwards, focusing on the sun but not to the point of blinding herself. Maybe being out at sea brought her closer to those expanding colors up above, and she reached with a fawn-beige hand towards the expansive sky. "Still too far away," Indra mumbled to herself, letting out a disappointing sigh. It wasn't like she fully believed she could ever touch the sky or grasp the morning colors, but that wouldn't stop her from trying.

She lowered her hand then, suddenly remembering the sweat sticking to her skin. She made a face as she turned from the sun and entered back into her bedroom. Once back inside, a soft voice called to her, beckoning to her a room opposite to the door that led outside. Blindly following the voice, only because she recognized it, into the separate room. A drawn bath awaited Indra, along with two female servants on either side of the white and gold tub. "Ah, g'morning Nyx, Nova." Indra addressed the twin maids waiting for her, watching as they dipped low into a greeting. Her slept in clothes were taken off with ease by the maids, allowing her to slide gleefully into the lukewarm awaiting water. It wasn't too hot, thankfully, but not cold either. Just perfect for the stifling heat that was Anacreon.

Now smelling of lavender and honey, Indra exited the bathroom in a simple white robe, heading straight for the large oak wardrobe in her bedroom upon the ship. Feeling refreshed from her bath, the heiress picked apart the several outfits hanging inside the closet. Today was the day she would meet several other heirs and royals, while her parents went off to a very important meeting with the other countries leaders. She never asked what the meeting would be about, since she didn't really have the right to question her parents, so she had stayed quiet, looking forward to meeting all the new people instead. Of course she had memorized all of their names and their respected countries, and what their countries were about, but she'd prefer to know everyone personally as well. Not for any sort of personal gain, just cause she loved meeting new people and making friends. She had no trouble making friends, but choosing an outfit for a first meeting with so many others? Now that was a problem for the young heiress. Indra sighed as her soft hands rummaged the closet, pulling outfits out only to shake her head and shove it back into its place. "If I may, why not wear something light and eye-catching while facing the harsh humidity, Lady Indra?" Her maid, Nova, spoke as she pulled free a short, yellow dress, embroidered with light blue feathers. Indra stared at the bright colorful dress. It was certainly a quick way to catch the other's eyes, but it seemed just a little too flashy. Even for the over-dramatic Indra.

Curly hair bounced as the heiress shook her head no, brown eyes glancing over to Nyx, standing just within reach. Indra heard the other woman hum as she thought, before watching as she too reached into her wardrobe. "While it's important to be eye-catching, I believe Lady Indra should also be elegant and breathtaking." Nyx responded, making her point as she instead pulled out a long, sheer, seemingly off shoulder, white dress. Wisteria flowers were embroidered across the midsection, almost looking like a belt, a few along the sleeves, and at the very hem at the bottom of the dress. Indra lit up at the sight of it, touching the sheer fabric on the outside. She really had no memory of the dress being in the wardrobe before, so it must have been a present from her papa. A "do your best" present, most likely. The sun could've probably cried at the sight of the beautiful dress but the tears were held back. She didn't speak, only answering by shedding the robe and awaiting for her maids to dress her.

Finally dressed, Indra allowed her hair to be quickly styled. Bangs pulled back into a gentle braid, letting the rest of the curly mop do it's own thing. Since only her bangs would cooperate. A soft, pastel purple eye-shadow, light mascara(water proof), soft blush, sharp eyeliner, and a light coat of nude lipstick was applied to her features. And to finish her perfect outfit off, Nyx tied a silver chain necklace around Indra's throat. A medium sized alexandrite stone hung off the chain, letting it rest just between her collarbones. Now that she was all set, Indra exited her room and onto the deck once more, her maids following quickly behind. It wasn't long until after stepping into the shining light of the sun, did a certain little pier come into view. Ah, it had been ages since she last visited the capital of Anacreon, and even longer since she had seen her good friend Aashi. A large smile crept it's way onto Indra's painted lips as the ship pulled into the reserved dock. "Now, you will behave, right, Lady Indra?" Nova warned, catching a glimpse of Indra's not-so-innocent smile. The heiress laughed then, waving her hand as if to wave off any suspicion. "Yes, yes. Now please be a dear and fetch an umbrella from my cabin, it's hotter than I remember." Indra stated in her native tongue, watching as Nova bowed before heading off towards Indra's quarters.

She knew, even in heels, that she could outrun Nyx, it was Nova who was tricky. But now she stood alone with just her darling little Nyx, who had no doubt that Indra was probably gonna run off the moment the boat was officially docked. And that's exactly what the heiress did. Indra leaped from the ships steps, with great accuracy, onto the busy dock. Not faltering, Indra gathered her skirts and headed straight for the rushing traffic of the pier. Only briefly did she turn around, ignoring both maids calling out her name, only to shout; "I'll see you at the estate!", before being swallowed into the crowd and disappearing. Indra hummed happily as she followed the flow of people. She had been in the capital a few times, adventuring around several times before, so she figured she could see the square on another day. Moving right along, the heiress really did just go to the large estate of the capital. Easily she walked past the gate, even without her escort, guessing Aashi would be greeting everyone in the courtyard. For a brief moment, Indra considered sneaking off into the large home, just for fun, but decided against it. Since she had to greet her host first and foremost. Humming all the way to the courtyard, where already several other royal heads were gathered, Indra stopped to stand beside a man. Curly blonde hair, guards, umbrella, leather and all, standing quietly off to the side. Dots connected in an instant and she guessed that the man was probably the Prince of Ordus, or rather Prince Aeron. A shady spot meant a perfect spot for her. With no hesitation, Indra walked over to the man, silently hiding beneath his umbrella.

Chocolate eyes glanced at the black leather sticking to the other's body, a curious smirk turned her lips then. "I dig the whole leather thing but uh, aren't you a little hot under it all? Especially with this heat, hmm." Indra hummed, a soft chuckle followed her questioning, keeping quiet enough just for the two alone to hear.

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