Fantasy The Twelve Ball

[Invisible monster]

@DecpetaBOSS


@sgbd


@Xixo


@bourgeoisiemustache


@JasmineBlooms


The courtyard stretched out before the castle, paved with stone, dotted with gardens of small, dense, dark bushes and light creamy flowers. One huge area was devoted entirely to parked carriages and other vehicles. The castle towered above, vast and intimidating, and about the back, various servants and helpers milled about unpacking food that had been delivered for the next twelve days. A huge plaque hung in front of the door, with the inscription,

The White Raven.

​

 

[sgbd]

The carriage glided through the air, pulled forth by a team of a half-dozen gleaming white winged horses. The carriage itself was was the same bright white as the horses, and it was gilded in intricate, swirling patterns and studded with enormous precious stones that glittered in the bright sunlight. It landed ever-so-gracefully on the stones of the carriage area, and the horses halted, their nervous snorting and stamping quickly hushed with a flick of the reins from the driver. Two footmen, dressed in the Marinean royal livery of fine red velvet trimmed with gold soutache braid, stepped down from the back of the carriage and opened the door. A shimmering shoe was the first thing to exit, bejewled in much the same manner as the carriage, followed by the vastly voluminous crimson skirt of an ostentatiously grand gown made of silk taffeta and an ermine stole, which was in turn followed by the slender, elegant figure of the young woman for whom all this grand ceremony was for.


Adelaide Charlotte Victoria Astor, Crown Princess and heir apparent to the royal throne of Marinea, stepped out of her glorious vehicle and surveyed her new surroundings with mild intrigue, the faintest hint of a smile playing upon her lips. She knew heads had turned at the pomp and circumstance of her arrival at the White Raven, and this pleased her greatly. After all, though she was here at the castle for diplomacy, she was also here to display the great power and wealth of her country. So far, this had most certainly been a success.


A servant hurried up to her, bending into a deep curtsy, and gestured to lead her inside the castle.

 

[Ashaficent]

A magnificent carriage with intricate designs done in gray and purple pulled up to the parking lot, pulled by two black horses. The elegant symbol of Esyna Dorei graced the two doors of the carriage.


The carriage stopped, and a servant opened the door while another respectfully held out a hand for the Elven woman within the carriage. A black gloved hand took his white clad one, and Lady Faelin Soul Branneth stopped out of the carriage.


She was dressed in black, grey and purple silk, with black flats which were not the best looking, but comfortable.


She smiled at the servant and nodded at him, as a sign of thanks. He nodded back at her, and started to lead her to the White Raven. Her people's representatives always kept the peace - they were peacemakers. And she planned on continuing that tradition.


Two servants opened the two magnificent doors, and she walked in.

 

[Xixo]

The Old Kingdom: Mictlán... How Oqiyya missed it. Every moment spent away from the sweltering jungle sapped her magical energies, it seemed. There was no occult theory or law in place to support such a statement... and yet it seemed true. Maybe she was just... Tired. The carriage rolled forward on the dirt road, its wheels, axes and tarps all rubbed with oils perfected in the alchemical laboratories... The turns of the wheels were buttery smooth and the tarps repelled all dust and rain. Oqiyya sat cross-legged in her wagon and gripped her face with her bony hands. Could she be... homesick? Even with her hand-servants and elaborately appointed carriage... she still felt so isolated. Even though she was a member of the Court and a highly respected practitioner of the the Occult Arts, she knew that she would be an oddity in this world. Even the mermaids, vampires and elves would sneer at the color of her skin, the timbre of her voice and her 'more magical than though attitude.' She knew from studying texts about the other kingdoms that her kind was rarely acknowledged and certainly not welcome unless there was something to be gained. Magical education was usually the object... although sometimes it might be something more sinister.


"Madam," the driver muttered, "We're here." His skin was purplish like hers, but he seemed lily-pink with fear. The whole situation was unnerving for anyone venturing out of Mictlán, she supposed.


Who would want to leave such a place? All of the witchery she'd learned there... would it it be enough to keep her and her people safe? As they pulled into the castle gates (the White Raven was even more imposing than Oqiyya had imagined), she drew away the tarp and stepped down out of the tarp, balancing her awkwardly tall and rigid body by grasping the side of the wagon. Her brilliantly gold dress shimmered in the daylight. She looked around and noticed that two delegates were already making their way into the castle. She looked around for a servant to guide her... They seemed a bit reluctant due to her appearance- or was that just her own insecurity? Either way, one of them sprang forward and motioned towards the massive front doors.





 
All six on foot. Jummkaltanbakur, his Holy Man Kirghulombakur, and four Elders (Khomnyosutakka, Chibozunekha, Inzupdakhbakur, Chamchamizinya) had marched from the ancient forests and through the great planes to the mountains where the great White Raven stood. It wasn't so bad. They were used to rough earth and little rest. As leaders of the Great Tribe, they were responsible for a lot of exploration and gathering. Sure, it was farther than any of them had traveled, but running full-speed on the mild plains was child's play compared to the uneven eart of the forest floor. Their taloned feet clicked merrily along past windmills and rivulets until the base of the mountain. The mounds of gifts they bore upon their backs in greatly organized and compartmentalized sacks cast long shadows in front of them as they made their way up the pathway. Carriage after carriage simply rolled by them. Did they think them to be naught but commoners? The thought tickled Jummkalt's sense of amusement. The Ulgan delegation was usually the last to arrive as they usually traveled on foot. What difference would a few hours make? One of the women spotted a bush bursting with fat reddish berries. They took a few moments and passed the red fruits among each other to replenish their energy. Feeling renewed, they sped forward together and quickly came to the castle tucked neatly into the mountains.


They moved in tandem towards the front gates and formed a line with the other other delegations (most in carriages) waiting their turn to be let into the secured grounds. Soon it came to be their turn as well. The servants in charge of letting them in didn't even blink with surprise. They offered the traveling party some ale and handfuls of fresh herbal wreaths. Refreshments... The Ulgans took the meal and made their way in, standing awkwardly in the gardens and looking up at the great front doors of the castle known as the White Raven.

 

[Ashaficent]

Faelin took a moment to call a servant over. "There are some more people coming over soon. They are from Esyna Dorei. Please take them to a room easily accessible from my quarters." She said.


The servant courtesied, saying, "As you wish, Lady Branneth." She scurried off, to spread the message.


Faelin walked to the gardens, nodding at the occasional servant that would pass by her. She was given a bow in return. She really loved the gardens, they reminded her of the forest back at home - just more well-kept.


So far, she had only nodded respectfully at the new representative of Marinea. It was the first time Faelin had ever seen her. But she wanted a bit of rest at the gardens then, so that's where she decided to go to.


Upon arriving at the gardens, Faelin spotted the Ulgans. Their love for nature was always appreciated by her, so she decided to talk to them. She approached them with a smile gracing her face. "It's a fine day, is it not?" She asked, bowing with respect. Her voice sounded like she was going to sing any moment, which you could expect from an elf of Esyna Dorei.

 

[JasmineBlooms]

Four tamed mountain-beasts pulled what Ishikorr supposed was a carriage up to the White Raven. Beside him the human, Brandon, quivered with excitement, and the gnome, Pyuishpe, seemed almost nauseous. It wasn't much farther to get to their destination, but Ishikorr was not feeling any sort of excitement.


Negotiations like these were dangerous things, and it would behoove them to keep Juoshire as neutral as possible. They weren't a huge target, being small and relatively inaccessible, but safety for their homeland was the greatest priority. The carriage stopped; they were here. Ishikorr breathed in deeply. It was time.

 

[Viper]

The sun was high in the sky when a pure white, open carriage pulled out from the forest. At first glance it appeared to be just a normal carriage, yet upon closer inspection there were pearls decorating the sides in a wave like pattern. The door handles and reigns were adorned with sea shells, shining in the sunlight as if they were still coated with water. Clashing with the blinding brilliance of the carriage were two powerful and at first glance beautiful, midnight black horses. There was something off about both however, their hooves where backwards and in their mains and tails were woven with seaweed. For those few which took the time to study shallow water creatures, they would know that these were two prime examples of Kelpie. They looked around with intelligence and caution as they stopped in front of the White Raven and after sharing a glance, one of the kelpie started stretching and moving until the horse was replaced by a shaggy yet muscular man with long dark hair, still woven with seaweed, who was wearing nothing but tattered grey trousers and a black necklace in the shape of a hoof. This shape shifting man opened the door to the carriage and held out a hand to the one liaison they were here to protect.


A woman with raven hair that flowed down to her waist took the hand of her guardian and although she looked at to be a woman of marvelous grace, as she climbed down from the carriage her legs gave out underneath her and she fell into the arms of the kelpie, "Thank you Kiel, I can stand on my own now." The woman said with an unknown accent, waving off Kiel as well as the other attendants who came running when they saw her slip. She stood tall once again and smiled openly when she saw the attendants gasp lightly at the sight of her seemingly pupil less eyes and rare appearances of scales. As she straightened her deep blue, floor length, silk robe she questioned the humans before her "Are you going to continue to stare or are you going to show Tidus where to park the carriage?" They quickly nodded and scampered off, leading the second kelpie named Tidus to where the other carriages were being stored. Odessa sighed and carefully began walking towards The White Raven, barefoot and resigned.


It wasn't necessary, Ambrose and his company could have found many magical ways to get to the White Raven, yet the leader of the caravan insisted on taking the several week long trip over and through several countries. The two carriages had arrived at their destination just as the sun just began to descend from the sky. Were you to be found inside of the carriages you would be unaware of this fact however, for there were no windows on the carriages besides a single one in rear, replacing the moon of their symbol with tinted glass. The pair of carriages rolled up to The White Raven, pulled by an unseen force. Seemingly in sync, two forms jumped out from their own vehicles. One was Captain Ambrose, a tall and darkly attractive man who could always be found with a closed smile on his face. The second was a child, looking as if he was 12 or 13, with almost white hair and a blank disposition. The pair shared many similar traits, white skin, black and red dress robes,and each were holding umbrellas above their heads. The pair shared a red eyed glance before Ambrose turned around and assisted two women out from the carriage. They looked dazed but pleased, wearing floor length gowns and jeweled necklaces which covered their entire necklaces.


"Cheery looking place isn't it, Emrick?" Ambrose asked his fellow vampire, poletly commenting on the disgustingly white decor. The adult vampire took the two women by the arms and lead them up the marble steps as the attendants handled unpacking the carriages. This was not Ambrose's first year at the Ball but it was Emricks, who was only attending the ball in the first place because the elders of Cainian insisted. Ambrose had informed Emrick about the vampire abilities which were acceptable to use in public and which were not. Heightened eye sight and strength were something that could not be controlled, yet the speed which they moved and the powers they faulted could. In Cainian it wasn't uncommon for a vampire to do even the most simple of movements in speeds greater than humans could follow yet while at the White Raven, they tried to keep themselves at slower speeds. In the years Ambrose had attended the ball he has not shown many of his abilities or strengths. He had used his ability to blend into the shadows secretly a few times and often used a low level of compulsion to smooth over conflicts but that was all he had let the others know about. As for strengths, the very fact that he does not burst into flames while in the sun is impressive. Only powerful vampires can keep themselves from dying or burning when touched by the sunlight, however it did keep them weakened and uncomfortable no matter their age and power. "We should find out where our quarters are, these lovely ladies look tired from all this traveling." Without any shame Ambrose kissed one of the women on the neck as he waited for the grand doors to be dragged open.

 

[Invisible monster]

Lady Aria Roseland sat up in her carriage seat, staring out the window. The familiar face of the White Raven was as stunning as always, its gardens still pristine, yet somehow wild. Where the carriages were parked, a few people were milling about already. Her eyes wandered to the empty seat beside her- for every twelve ball she had attended, there had been at least one other representative for Varulvia, and even after coming every year for five years, the experience always seemed intimidating, even with someone else there to help. But this year, it was vital that she come alone.


The carriage shuddered to a halt, and Aria stepped carefully out onto the neatly swept cobbles and looked around. Specifically, she scanned the area for any representative who was not human. As long as she was careful and tactful, any kingdom that was functional and run by non-humans would be perfect for what she was trying to do with Varulvia. It could show them, the other members of the council, that they didn't need to persecute the forest creatures in order to ensure their safety. It would teach them how to integrate those creatures back into society, without all the bloodshed. At least, that was the plan. As she looked around, her eyes came to rest on the seal of Cainan, on the back of a carriage, and the man who was walking away from it. Cainan. Perfect. She adjusted her shawl, and slowly approached the vampire.


@Viper

 

[sgbd]

Adelaide was led by the servant to her chambers. Along the way, she marveled at the magnificence of the White Raven. She had never before been outside of Marinea or even its capital city, where she lived; indeed, she barely even left her palace. Yet her composure was too regal and collected to betray even a hint of what she was feeling. It would be most unseemly to be seen gawking, massive and impressive though the castle might be. At last, the servant unlocked a large door and opened it, revealing a large suite of chambers, every surface fitted out to the utmost level of luxury, as the princess had expected, of course. Every wooden surface was made of some finely polished exotic wood, the floor was covered in masterfully created rugs, and the walls were decorated with hung tapestries and many gold-edged mirrors in which she could inspect her reflection.


Striding up to one of these mirrors, Adelaide did just so. Her face was oval-shaped and clean and clear of complexion, and her vibrantly sapphire blue eyes glittered with a spark of cleverness and intelligence. Her auburn hair fell in soft waves around her shoulders and down to her mid-back typically, but at the moment it was styled in an updo with jeweled hairpins. Her figure was statuesque, slender but not without curves. She was elegant in body and in the way she carried herself, and she knew it. She smirked at the image of herself, and it smirked back at her knowingly.


After the legion of porters arrived with her many things and she ensured that they were all placed just so, she made her way to a sitting room of sorts where all the representatives could sit and meet each other.

 

[JasmineBlooms]

It didn't take long for Ishikorr to be directed inside the White Raven, not having gotten caught up in the conversations that were happening outside. That suited him well enough. Brandon and Pyuishpe followed him, both making noises at the luxury of the interior. To be honest, it just made Ishikorr more uncomfortable. He had no wish to be here, and wanted to get the meeting over with as quickly as possible so that he could get back home to his children. After a mine collapse a few years ago, several members of his community banded together to take in the orphaned children. Although he was relatively young, he ended up adopting three siblings, ages 7, 4, and 2. In a couple years his eldest would be old enough to learn his trade, and he was looking forward to that day. The separation was taxing to him.


Soon enough he was led to his quarters. After seeing that their luggage was already there, he decided to leave Brandon and Pyuishpe behind to unpack their luggage while he went on to greet the other representatives. He was the lead representative here, and so he took it as his responsibility. Even if he thought it was tedious.

 

[Viper]

Ambrose smelt her before he heard her, the sent of a familiar, yet untasted, blood reached his nose and he turned to see a fellow representative slowly walking towards him. "Take them up to our quarters, make sure they care comfortable and fed. Should you have need of me I shall be in the meeting room." The captain whispered, closing the black umbrella and handing it to his fellow vampire. Emrick nodded and took the ladies by the hand, leading them inside and out of view of the others. Ambrose walked slowly towards the woman and once within arms reach he bowed low and kissed her hand gently, "It is good to see you again Lady Roseland. You look beautiful as always" These two have attended the Twelve Ball a number of years, so they were familiar with each others faces and countries. Ambrose was careful not to open his mouth much when he spoke or smiled, he found that humans were easier to deal with the more he acted like one of them and less like a creature of darkness. "I didn't see anyone else step out of the carriage with you, which is strange, I do hope their are no problems in Varulvia that would keep the other representatives away." He said with slight concern, although it was mostly just him being polite "It seems we have switched roles this year, you are alone while I have come with company for once. A grumpy white haired child in fact..." He chuckled and shook his head, "I can already tell this ball will be one that I will remember for centuries. Now tell me, to what do I owe the pleasure of your company?" @Invisible monster


The mermaid walked into the White Raven and grimaced, it was her first year serving as the liaison for the Kingdom of Nepton and her first time on land as well. Before her was another mermaid, as graceful on land as she was in the sea, who used her unearthly looks and voice to seduce her way to her goals. Her name was Antia and Odessa already knew she would not be able to perform her job as Antia did. Although Odessa's voice was as beautiful and as hypnotic as all merpeoples were, she could not do anything more than walk with her legs let alone dance or appear graceful. Not feeling the need to be social before the actual business started Odessa allowed a servant to lead her and Kiel to the room where the meeting would take place. The room was large, with murals that told of devastating wars on three sides, a reminder of why they were there in the first place, yet on the final wall was a map of the world, each Kingdoms borders clearly lined and labeled, with a few of the defining traits of the kingdoms illustrated. Odessa smiled when she stared at the map, seeing blue covering much of the wall, yet it was also humorous to see that the chosen illustrations for her kingdom was a shipwreck and the image of a mermaid in the center of The Singing Sea. Her kingdom and species was a mystery since it could not be found unless you could breath underwater and handle the seas intense pressures, which no land species could handle for long. Odessa found her seat and gratefully got off of her feet, glad that no one else would see her embarrassing excuse for walking. Kiel walked to the wall found behind the Nepton seat and crossed his arms, watching every corner of the room for dangers.

 

[Xixo]

Faelin took a moment to call a servant over. "There are some more people coming over soon. They are from Esyna Dorei. Please take them to a room easily accessible from my quarters." She said.
The servant courtesied, saying, "As you wish, Lady Branneth." She scurried off, to spread the message.


Faelin walked to the gardens, nodding at the occasional servant that would pass by her. She was given a bow in return. She really loved the gardens, they reminded her of the forest back at home - just more well-kept.


So far, she had only nodded respectfully at the new representative of Marinea. It was the first time Faelin had ever seen her. But she wanted a bit of rest at the gardens then, so that's where she decided to go to.


Upon arriving at the gardens, Faelin spotted the Ulgans. Their love for nature was always appreciated by her, so she decided to talk to them. She approached them with a smile gracing her face. "It's a fine day, is it not?" She asked, bowing with respect. Her voice sounded like she was going to sing any moment, which you could expect from an elf of Esyna Dorei.

The four Elders and the Holy Man were instructed to move away towards their quarters. Jummkaltanbakur stayed behind in the gardens to greet other delegates as they made their way through the gardens and towards the castle. Such was the Ulgani custom- at any gathering, the most honored member of the tribe must always greet guests at the entrances (even if the tribe isn't hosting the event). He knew the significance of this would be lost on many of those present, but he had his own honor to maintain.


He nodded politely to those making their way in, shook hands whenever proximity required it, and bowed ceremoniously to the most honored of guests. He peered curiously as the representative from Esyna Dorei approached and greeted the group. The party (save for Jummkaltanbakur), bowed and they excused themselves. The Elves had been allies of the forest for many generations and Jummkaltanbakur had great respect for them. Lady Faelin Branneth seemed like a cheerful and honorable woman to the Chief, and so he felt their relationship to be pleasant and positive, if a bit cordial.


"Greetings, Lady Branneth," he uttered to her in a reverential tone. "It is indeed a beautiful day. The Sun-God has graced us with good weather this day." His accent in the Common language wasn't poor, but his words were choppy and staccato.


"I hope the Kingdom of Esyna Dorei is enjoying prosperity, my Lady," the chief added, with an additional bow.