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 Posted: Mon Nov 06, 2017 9:20 pm
Baroness Youkimi Kai
Scandals indeed... though some were founded in substantiated rumor, and others had reasonable proof enough to make it possible for them to be true, the most dangerous were the ones that were heartily believed, whether or not they were based in reality. Now that it had been brought up, she could believe where this happenstance might be entirely misconstrued.
Clearly her cousin took delight in it, somehow. The reason for it cropped up a few moments later, with a strange gleam in Chusi's eye as she prodded further. Only a relative could get away with such things, one might later offer as explanation.
As for Youkimi, the suggestion caught her off guard just enough to bring color to her face. She managed to keep her expression in check, save for surprise that lifted her eyebrows.
"There is no stock." She answered, through a voice that was relatively cool, though the barest hint of a tremor was on it. Fortunately, as she found herself closer to reality and remembered where she was, the tremor faded and she regained complete control over her voice. "We have no understanding, he and I."
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Posted: Tue Nov 07, 2017 4:12 pm
 Chusi ChhatrapatiDuchess of Solidon"Warlord Deva Incarnate"-Proclaimed by her peopleCompany: Two guards and Regent Wearing: ArmorChusi chuckled slightly when she saw her dear cousins face catch a little blush but she didn't say anything as she let her get herself under control, she had always wondered why Youkimi seemed to always keep her emotion in check, it was almost the exact opposite of her family where emotions ran wild, tempers went unchecked, any lovers her brothers had brought home got teased, people got shot at and things thrown at them. Scandal didn't exist for the Chhatrapati family mainly because anything that could and would be made up was believable to the point of it just being shrugged off because life for them had been just so loud and public. Chusi's father taking a mistress was shrugged off because anyone could go to Solidon Greater and ask around and get laughed at for doing so, Chusi having her first lover when she was fifteen was shrugged off because it wasn't something scandalous and was just something assumed the young girl would do, her brothers fighting over the same woman was shrugged off... not to mention so much more like treasure troves, kidnappings, secret raids and right of first night still secretly being taken. The northern Chhatrapati didn't bother to right rumor, compared to their southern cousins in Kaishin whom seemed to never have to bother since any that did exist well...Chusi had never heard many. The only two she had were that The Baroness was more then just friends with the Count and that the Late Baron Kai had met an untimely end in the eruption. The latter of those two rumors she didn't have the heart to ask about because she didn't know how she would respond if it had been. Instead Chusi kept the smile on her face "so you two are just friends then? she asked, just to make sure "You wouldn't mind if I... made my intentions known?" Chusi bit the inside of her cheek as she looked at her Cousin "After the war of course"
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Posted: Tue Nov 07, 2017 6:15 pm
Baroness Youkimi Kai
The Kai were notoriously upright. They also preferred to be out of public eye. So, by being the studious warriors and knights that they were, they did very little to attract attention. They fulfilled their duty to the crown and to their people. However, since the volcano, and the fluff and greenery was burnt and cast aside, the solid stone that the Kai family was forcefully revealed.
Where did she stand as far as Dixon was concerned? Youkimi needed a moment to think. She remembered their conversations. She remembered times that were much simpler, when those of Kaishin were dependable and out of the public eye. She remembered learning to be patient with a boisterous and energetic son of the Titus family. She remembered much. How he grew into a strong man, one who rose to the challenge to rebuild their nation, who toiled like the citizens in his care.
But she also knew so much about him. She was at his side when the fires of Ethe went out. She managed the affairs of the kingdom and tried to help the queen recover. At the queen's death, she became regent, which was far outside the expectation for her class and rank. Far outside any expectation for a daughter of the Kai family. Yet, in the vision the snow brought forth, her father expressed pride in her. Pride, despite her single position, and her current arrangement that placed so much responsibility on her shoulders.
When last she conversed with Dixon, they were friends. They were still allies under Ethe's banner. Yet, he seemed so distant. She struggled to understand her feelings on the matter, knowing what she did, and being keenly aware of how it conflicted with her care.
Youkimi's eyes fell and she rubbed her fingers. The blush faded and a melancholy drifted into her expression. She wished she knew what her father would say on this matter. She wished that there was anyone close enough for her to speak to about this who could help her sort through the mess that this suddenly was revealed to be. A side effect, perhaps, of trying not to think about these things in the wake of her many responsibilities.
After the war.... Chusi wanted to express her feelings to Dixon. That was what Youkimi heard. It wasn't a surprise to her, as Dixon was an attractive and charismatic individual. Surely there were many who tried to earn his attention. Chusi was similarly bold and her family had a tendency to follow their impulses without regret, particularly in matters of love. Dixon would speak his mind if he was asked a question.
"It is interesting that you ask me..." Youkimi quietly spoke. "Why are you asking me?"
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Posted: Tue Nov 07, 2017 6:32 pm
Chusi ChhatrapatiDuchess of Solidon"Warlord Deva Incarnate"-Proclaimed by her peopleCompany: Two guards and Regent Wearing: Armor Chusi's cheeks darkened as blood rushed to them, despite this she looked at her cousin unabashed even though a surge of humiliation ran though her "No reason" she said and then simply followed it up with "You two are close. You grew up together as far as I know and you work together now and before" she said, no longer able to hold eye contact "I...was wondering if you think he would be okay with it" she whispered and looked down, wiggling her toes within her armored shoes. Despite all of the war talks and the training she had been given she had never been given other such talks, her mother hadn't been one to arrange marriages or tell her what flirting was or teach her other things that other ladies of noble bearing knew, Chusi didnt know what she was supposed to do or how to show him that she was interested, and heavens help her she prayed Youkimi knew something.
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Posted: Tue Nov 07, 2017 6:46 pm
Baroness Youkimi Kai
No reason, Chusi said, bashfully excusing herself. Youkimi knew otherwise, but mentioning it would solve little. The curious nervousness Chusi now displayed, uncharacteristic of her in public, immediately spoke more than her words would betray. Chusi was aware of Youkimi's history with Dixon. As a course of being polite and to avoid friction with her, she asked her permission.
It was as simple as that. Emotionally, however, Chusi did fancy Dixon. This, again, did not strike Youkimi as something to be surprised about. However.... that did not make where Youkimi stood any easier. She was no closer to a family of her own... She was raising children, one whose mother might yet return, and two others who were raised under the shadow and protection of her wings. They were hers. Yet... was this sufficient to fulfill her father's hope that she settle down? Would that be possible in this current political environment?
"I cannot speak for Count Titus." Youkimi closed her eyes and fought against the unbid tingling in her nose. "I know not where his heart is."
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Posted: Tue Nov 07, 2017 9:40 pm
Chusi ChhatrapatiDuchess of Solidon"Warlord Deva Incarnate"-Proclaimed by her peopleCompany: Two guards and Regent Wearing: Armor Disappointed by the lack of information Chusi nodded her head "ah....that's a bit disheartening" she said as she slowly stood up, she doubted giving him the cold shoulder or yelling would get anything through to him, she didn't want him to think that she just wanted to remain where she stood now. Her hand went up to her mouth as she bit on her thumb nail for a moment before she shook her head and looked over at Youkimi "I guess we never really know anyone elses heart" she then looked toward the door as she let out a heavy sigh "I should get going." she said, the disappointment quickly forgotten as a grin spread across her face "I have some pyrotechnics to see to before going back to the front"Chusi turned around and was about to leave before she stopped "oh, one more thing" she said and turned around "How much trouble are you in because the Emperors daughter was Assassinated at Blackstone?" she asked.
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Posted: Tue Nov 07, 2017 10:01 pm
Baroness Youkimi Kai
Youkimi wasn't sure how much she could say on the matter. Dixon was currently unwed, and so he was likely still searching for someone who was fit to be his wife. Those who were bold enough to say something on the matter likely would.... Youkimi had helped to teach him about noble life, yes, but at the end of the day, the count was his own man and decisions of such importance were not hers to make, despite her reservations on the matter. Despite how she felt. Why was this matter so confusing to her now? At this vital junction when she could have thrown caution to the fire and boldly stated a claim?
Because, she reminded herself simply, it was not her place to. Though she was currently regent of Ethe, she was still a baroness by birth, and therefore, to speak out of place would be improper.
The last question moved her attention back to the present. She opened her eyes again. How much trouble was she in.... The daughter of Kaishin's lips flicked into a dry smile. This was quite a distraction, wasn't it? From one's spinster lifestyle directly into recent events.
"The emperor has recently demanded that Ethe bolster the empire's war efforts with troops and supply." Youkimi spoke clearly, but dryly, expecting little else from the emperor. "I expect that he intends to mark this nation as enemies of the high crown if we do not comply, but I find within myself no reason to risk Ethe further by obeying. Officially, Ethe has given no reply."
Besides, Ethe had its borders to defend, from whatever force might choose to come and regardless of the banner they flew under.
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Posted: Tue Nov 07, 2017 10:11 pm
Chusi ChhatrapatiDuchess of Solidon"Warlord Deva Incarnate"-Proclaimed by her peopleCompany: Two guards and Regent Wearing: Armor Looking up for a moment Chusi thought about it for a moment, she wasn't going to outright admit to what she had done, if the Empire won and Chusi was even offered the privilege of a trial she didn't need assassination added to the charges that would already get her beheaded, treason and insubordination would give her a fairly painless death but assassination of royalty, especially the loyalty of that emperors loins would most likely get her tortured. From what she heard happened to traitors she didn't need that to happen. So instead Chusi looked at Youkimi "Perhaps raise troops to protect Ethe, say the reason be higher security since the death of one so 'high and noble' has shaken the kingdom" Chusi brought her fingers up in air quotes "So that when or if Ethe is attacked you will have enough troops to stave off the battle weary that march this way." she then lowered her head slightly "At my expense. How much would such security cost?" she asked her, hoping she would get the hint without her having to say the obvious.
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Posted: Tue Nov 07, 2017 10:27 pm
Baroness Youkimi Kai
Then it sounded as though they were already of a similar understanding in this regard. The collective distrust of an emperor prone to warring with the people under his care provided enough evidence for them to protect themselves this time. Not all served the empire, but in this situation, Ethe's first regent would prioritize the regrowing nation's safety. They were stable now, at long last, and they had no desire to lose it by force.
"A draft has been arranged, calling able men to service and to training so they might be ready to defend our borders at a moment's notice." Youkimi inclined her head. "Many are willing to protect their nation, though many are unwilling to leave our borders to war in foreign lands, for either side quite yet..."
Youkimi shook her head slightly. She would not name a price. Chusi knew better than most that there was always the cost of swords, basic armor, provisions that could be a benefit, but for one who was busy waging war, such funds would undoubtedly be useful to this effort. "The defense of this nation belongs to more than us as nobility, dear cousin. Ethe will bear its burden together."
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Posted: Tue Nov 07, 2017 10:44 pm
Chusi ChhatrapatiDuchess of Solidon"Warlord Deva Incarnate"-Proclaimed by her peopleCompany: Two guards and Regent Wearing: Armor "Yes, but as nobility we must shoulder more of it then any other" she responded far quicker then she had intended, seeming to be back to her rash self "Most of Solidons trained soldiers are with me but I did leave the rest back in Solidon to protect it. We can still send those required for the draft, double if you allow both men and women." a click of the tongue behind a slightly open mouth "of all the things that have happened this last year the draft caught my attention even from the front" Chusi had learned about most of the changes that Youkimi had wanted to change as well as the new creature that they had brought forward, steam power. The concept interested her but not enough to make her pull her forces and become an intellectual "Is anything else about that we must speak about before I leave?" she asked
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Posted: Thu Nov 09, 2017 12:01 pm
Baroness Youkimi Kai
Nobility shouldered the responsibility, on this Chusi was certainly correct. Youkimi would not comment on this, but took note of the things that were being shared with her. Most of the soldiers were off and fighting, but to have a collection was in Solidon would help if things turned for the worse. "The draft was not my initial plan. However, we cannot deny that in these times, even we have need of armies ready to defend ourselves."
Warriors of heritage and heart prepared for the eventuality of war even while they tended their gardens. Ethe had much happen to it in the recent years. Its people were stronger and no stranger to tragedy, to sorrow, to trial, and to hope. They had survived a volcano, the wrath of their neighbor mountain. Dragons and phoenix could not compare to nature's destruction.
"I can think of nothing more. Thank you for coming to speak with me today, Chusi."
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Posted: Thu Nov 09, 2017 8:31 pm
Chusi ChhatrapatiDuchess of Solidon"Warlord Deva Incarnate"-Proclaimed by her peopleCompany: Two guards and Regent Wearing: Armor Chusi once again stood up and nodded her head "Well then, I will see you soon regent" she said as she turned on her heel and walked toward the door "If you need anything, don't hesitate to write" she called to her just as she had opened the door and left. Once she had been escorted outside to the two waiting guards Chusi started to put her weapons back on before she transformed into the beautiful golden Phoenix that she was and she took off, and within an hour a loud Boom could be heard as the dam was forcefully broken down and the water began to flow again. [exit]
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Posted: Thu Nov 09, 2017 9:00 pm
Baroness Youkimi Kai
From where she was seated, Youkimi bowed to her cousin, who soon left her presence, after offering her services, should they be needed again. Fortunately, with good messengers, one could have news reach anywhere. She was grateful to have Chusi as an ally, though she worried about her role in the fearsome war that disrupted the empire. Yet, this was outside of her control to so large a degree that all she could hope for was the eventual peace that sometimes followed devastation. In the meantime, she could prepare and defend the people to the best of her ability.
She turned her attention to the writing desk and considered what there was next to do. There were letters to write, others to contact....
To her mind, briefly, came thoughts of Dixon... Chusi wished to make her feelings known to him. Youkimi marveled at this, and how this thought troubled her, but to no logical reason. She had not denied Chusi permission to do so... But of herself... Did the daughter of a baroness have any right to acknowledge her feelings to one above her station? For that matter, what were her feelings?
She swallowed and shook her head. She lowered the quill to page again and began to write a different letter. Business. Right now, she could focus on that, for the security of Ethe. ... Perhaps there was time left to sort out this strange net that entangled her heart and nerves.
The tutor and the young Nero was allowed to enter the room again, though it seemed that for the duration of Chusi's visit, they had simply gone walking around the grounds. That would do.
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Posted: Sat Dec 02, 2017 2:26 pm
✺Forgotten SonEC: 100 Back from the swamp of battle, the count made his entrance as a passing star turned homicidally curious about the land that received its blessing trail of mystical light. Something in the way only he could fly. It made him unmistakable, even though the flames which curled off his body were seldom the same color twice. Similarly,
there was no place, at least for the count,
more relaxing than in the cooling aura of his one time mentor and all-time friend Youkimi.
As he approached, a large group of shadows rolled off the mass that was his aerial caravan and sunk into the horizon. They were headed in the direction of Etelan, by the looks of it. Soon three figures, one of them being the green comet known as Dixon Titanus, landed near the foregrounds of the estate.
════════════════════════════════════════════════════════Quotes
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Posted: Sat Dec 02, 2017 3:32 pm
Baroness Youkimi Kai
On this day, aware only that there was battle going on elsewhere, had been wandering the grounds of her home. Nero was playing with the other children that were about the humble estate, and the twins were in the care of the nurses. Having finished the letters that she needed to send off for the day, she decided to distance herself by walking her gardens. She was among the few nobles, from what she could tell, that kept her gardens looking almost as pristine as a dream, and with flora whose life could only be attributed to life after the volcano. She had been considering the contour and shape of delicately budding flowers when a guard drew her attention to the unusual light in the sky. Only a few moments of watching was all she needed to identify this anomaly, for it was one she knew well. However, she could not account for his arrival this time.
She moved with the guards to the outside, though until she reassured them that she knew this stranger, they were tense and at the ready. Fortunately, on seeing the figure outside of the fireball, they did relax further. It was merely the way he flew.
One of the guards stepped forward, ready to assist the man, should he need it. His face might have been more familiar, his red tresses behind the helm might have given him away as someone the late princess Ursula decided to renounce.
"Welcome to Kaishin, sire."
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