Solidon Province Home of House Chhatrapati The culturally rich province of Solidon has for two hundred years been held by the Chhatrapati family ever since the first King of Ethe, Geralt Eta Mara'e awarded the land and the title of Duke to the head of Chhatrapati at the time, Vidyasagara, for his loyal services that he had performed while protecting and fighting for Ethe against invaders. Vidyasagara would marry another Chhatrapati clan woman and the first Chhatrapati duke born to the title would be Kirti Chhatrapati. The Ethen province of Solidon shares a border with Lionis to its north and Phobos to its west, Solidon is bordered by the provinces of Palude and Antigone to the east while the royal lands touch upon the south eastern end of Solidon, most of the lands western border is open sky with the closet land being the main island of the Maude. Off record the Chhatrapati have made claimancy to a small Maudian island just off the main Island of The Maude, however because the land is officially part of the Maude and not part of Ethe they have not pursued the claimancy, however so far so long as the Chhatrapati do not pursue it they are aloud to have a small vacation like home upon the small island. The Land and Villages
The Land of Solidon is for the majority, rather flat, not including some inclines and hills that seem to run together and in the big picture are rather unnoticeable. Most of the Population resides in the temperate grasslands that make up most of the North and North Eastern parts of the province, while some more hardy live in the Steppes, few people live in the Desert region and those that do are normally let alone. Out of one hundred and fifty registered villages and towns only nine are prominent and are worth mentioning: Solidon Greater which is located around the river and is a known as a foreign trade stop due to its prime location. Solidon Lesser which is located near the Palude-Antigone border and is also known for its domestic trade. Lakshmi, Maharaj, Phra, Ba'ar are all located along the western side of Solidon. They are nicknamed the four sisters of Solidon as only one is wealthy per season. They trade wood, meat, oil, and furs between each other and as the demand grows and falls in each season the wealth goes with the Demand. Solidon Minor lays just before the Steppes and is the majority producer of lumber in Solidon. Mara is a village located just within the Steppes near the border with Antigone and the Royal lands, out of all the villages in Solidon Mara was the most affected by the eruption in 200, though they are still recovering people have began to return to the village. Aella is the last well known village and it isn't that big, the main reason it is known is because the village stands just before the mountains and make a living from hunting in them.
The People
Those born to Solidonian parents tend to have honey toned or olive skin with brown, black and very pale hair with the latter being less common and seen more within the Yue. A majority of the people in Soildon are Ethen Phoenix, those within the villages tend to pay homage to the Fire Goddess Agni while out in the Steeps the gods of the Empire are not recognized, and the people of Yue keep their own god. Beginning with The Chhatrapati. The Chhatrapati family does not originally hail from Solidon, they could have come from what is now Frostveil and inhabited the region somewhere between the mountains and the edge of the world, When they first settled in Solidon around year 0 the Chhatrapati tribe consisted of roughly 200 member When the Chhatrapati family became dukes the rest of the Chhatrapati tribe chose different names, the most prominent families that remain are the Maharani, the Sultana, and the Temur, and though the families themselves do not hold noble rank they are given more freedoms and are considered kin. Most of the Chhatrapati tribe carried genetics for a dark complexion accompanied by brown or black hair and eye color ranging from pale creamy yellow to a dark lustrous orange while the main line of Chhatrapati are known for their nearly metallic looking golden eyes. Secondly the Yue, known for having moon white hair, Silver eyes and worshiping the goddess Yue- a goddess of the Moon which they believe is a large ball of white fire that both graces them with the gift of life and will take all that it has given away when the white fire [the moon] does not return. The first house that ruled Solidon before Ethe became a Kingdom believed in Yue and was known as House Pandia. The Yue are known for travelling all around Epsilon but are most prominent in Solidon. Lastly we have the Horse tribes of the Steppes, contact is not regularly made with them as they tend to prove more trouble than they're worth. They travel the Steeps and the Desert while occasionally travelling through the Grasslands in order to partake in Solidon's great hunt. They do not bow to the Chhatrapati unless the current Chhatrapati in charge kills their leader and thusly is proclaimed Shadow Dancer, which is the Horse tribes title for a leader that comes from outside the tribe. When the Chhatrapati that has earned this title dies they go back to governing themselves. There are nineteen Horse Tribes within Solidon.
Culture
The overall culture of Solidon is a more militaristic culture then most, kneeling is considered a sign of weakness instead of a greeting, Children are taught to ride before walking, Where if you say you can't hold your liquor you'll be handed three more pints, and if you can't handle spice you'd find yourself shown to the door. The people of Solidon love music in times of peace as well as dance, dancing is a free spirited thing in Solidon and though you may be laughed at for falling on your butt it will all be in good fun, structured dance is normally only found amongst the high class and at ceremony. Solidon adheres to the patron goddess of Ethe, Agni, and several festivals are held in her honor by those that can't travel to the Ethernal fire or into the Maude. The most well known festivals are the Horse festival where young boys would go attempt to ride a wild horse from the grasslands (those who succeed find themselves with good fortune for the rest of the year), The Fire Festival in Agnis honor where a large bonfire is set up in the middle of town and people play music and dance with the flames, The Great Hunt which goes on for fourteen days and people must bring back the largest animal they can kill from each of the regions, and the Phoenix Festival in which they celebrate the life of the Phoenix. Those with longer held ties to the land of Solidon, particularly the Yue people, follow a goddess called Yue, According to what people have managed to find out the Yue do not eat bird or rabbit and they do not use "red fire" instead having learned a way to turn it white. Each month on the day of new moon the Yue people hold a large festival in which they dance and sing to the heavens to return the moon, which they believe is a ball of white fire that both gives and takes away life. The Steeps horse tribes also have a sense of mystery around them however the right of passage [attempting to ride a wild horse] is a watered down version of theirs where their young must tame one in order to be considered an adult. They also tend to enjoy taking part in The Great Hunt. The Chhatrapati do not hold sway over the horse tribes unless they go though and defeat the nineteen tribe leaders and have bestowed upon them the title of Shadow Dancer, the tribes title for a leader born outside the tribe. Everything else is unknown. Tradition amongst the Chhatrapati themselves are as follows: intimate relations with dragons is punishable by death White is a color of mourning When the Chhatrapati die they are burned and the ashes are mixed with the rest of the families in a large urn, according to their nameless god doing so will allow them to meet again after death. According to Chhatrapati legend a nameless god created a piece of paradise off the side of the world where all the dead shall go.
Solidon is a mixture of Indian, Mongolian, and Chinese cultures with European influences via the Empire.
Weather, Flora and Fauna
Depending on where you live or go within Solidon you will be met with different plants and animals, so we will go by region The Forests of Solidon are very few, they use to be larger but quite a bit have been cut down. The small Solidon forests are made up of Oak, Cottonwood, and Elm trees. The Animals consist of the small things such as rabbits, squirrels, skunks and birds, as well as the larger things like deers, foxes, bobcat, leopards and an occasional black bear. The Grassland region of Solidon is without a doubt the most populated of the regions, the grasslands see many hot days with many being accompanied by humidity. The grassland never goes above a hundred twenty with the worst winter on record being in the negative thirties. The Grassland is full of grass, oaks, cottonwoods, as well as many flowers such as indigo, goldenrod and sunflowers. The animals that come out are gazelles, rabbits, deer, Coyotes, foxes and wild horses. The Steppes are almost exactly like the desert except more grass, so basically it's a combo of the grassland and the desert regions, an intermediate section that occasionally has a small dust storm. Plants growing in The Steppes are usually taller than a foot with a majority being cacti, sage, speargrass and wheat, along with many strange white flowers. Animals include hawks, badgers, snakes, cows and bulls which have been introduced, as well as Elephants, Hippos, Rhinos, and Tigers. The Steppes have also had a beastmen problem since the mid 150's and have been home to two teen Giwa as of 199. The Desert region of Solidon has very little sand as most of it is hard rock and dry soil. It is a small region that has had dry summers and cold winters that average a temp of 50 to 60f and never manages over 100f When it comes to plants they are plentiful in sage, cacti and jujube. The small desert has a constant supply of rats, skunks, rabbits, foxes, lizards, snakes, Scorpions, tarantulas and various birds of which the most common is the Hawk. Larger animals include the Jebeer deer, Blackbuck, and Caracal...contrary to popular belief they DO NOT have Camels. Alpine Tundra is the smallest region in Solidon and uninhabited by people, one village called the Aella hunt in the mountains. It is normally below freezing all year around and bare of most plants, the only ones that it has tend to be small grasses, small trees and small shrubbery. It is home however to any animals that manage to survive such as mountain lions, Snow Leopards, mountain goats, sheep, ram and elk. The Wetlands are a several marshes detested by most of Solidon due to the large stagnant bodies of water never moving and full of mosquitoes and multiple batches of nesters. However the wetlands are still regularly gone to by locals in order to catch fish, uproot reeds and run the nesters out for a small amount of time. The Wetlands (Marshes) are home to many animals such as fish (Bass, catfish and pike), frogs, salamanders, snakes, and Mugger Crocodiles, along with large birds such as crane, stork, and black swans. Color Code: Dark Green- Temperate Forest Lime- Temperate Grasslands Dark Lemon- Steppes Orange- Semi Arid Desert Brownish Red- Alpine Tundra Light Blue- Wetlands
Owned By Chusi Chhatrapati
Taxes [paid for 203] Exotic food bundle [bought for 203] Small one person carriage [bought in 203] Inox bladed Kusarigama [bought in 203] Ten common bred horses [bought in 203] 2 red Morgans [male and female, 3 Paint Horses [all male], 2 quarter horses [male and female], 1 Appaloosa [female], 1 Shire [female], 1 Shire-Friesian [male] Four purebred horses [bought in 203] consists of 2 thoroughbred Friesians [one male one female], 1 Akhal-Teke [male], 1 Andalusian [male] Other horses Epona [female,203], Moon Rugen [male, 203], Night Rugen [male 203], Two Titos [one male one female, 203], Agasaya [female 203] Three extra large castles [203] Desert Fortress of Nasr began construction by the Pandia in -100 and wasn't officially finished until the year 105au between those years it saw its fair share of battles. Its last full time resident was in 110au who deemed the fortress to large to be lived in properly and instead redubbed it a fall back fortress if war ever broke out in Solidon. Amaranth Castle was built in the style of a Palace with smoothed out stone. Construction began in 25au but it was halted for 25 years before being finished in 75au. Because the castle was built on Maude lands it was going to become a place to house servants of the gods, but threats of war from the Chhatrapati had them come to an agreement where the Chhatrapati could reside in the castle in the spring-summer and the Maude would use it in the fall and winter. Solidon Castle began construction at 25au and was finished in 50au. It is located in the wetlands near the river. At first the castle wasn't meant to become the main residence of the Chhatrapati but after they were kicked out of the Maude they made this castle their centerpiece. They have had problems with it however between the crocodiles and threat of sinkage....they weren't thinking about the drawbacks of building near a marsh. One large castle [203] The Ourea is one of the newest castles built by the Chhatrapati. Built by Chusi Chhatrapati's grandfather, Jalal, the castle was meant as a mountain retreat for hunting and social gatherings as a small hot spring is nearby. Two medium castles [203] The Sun Drop Cupola was a quick build by Naguun Chhatrapati, Chusi Chhatrapati's father, It was built in the honor of his mistress whom he believed he loved. He set his mistress up in the Sun Drop with her own court and servants, After the mistresses death the Sun Drop has been boarded up and abandoned. Castle Silenus was built between 75au and 100au, it was meant to be the more fun addition to Solidon Castle. Castle Silenus was built near Solidon Lesser and normally it is opened to the public for large events. Four small castles [203] Castle Furor was built by a not to long dead ancestor, a second son that wanted a castle of his own. Well he had plans drawn up and began construction only to drink away half the coin his father had given him and had to spend another fourth on water just so people could build and not die of Exhaustion. The center section of the castle was constructed before the second son abandoned the project and the small castle was left open for travelers that needed a safe spot to rest away from the animals and blazing sun. Castle Lyssa was built for a lover. A Chhatrapati woman didn't want to marry and challenged her father to combat, she did not win and would have been stuck in a loveless marriage if not for her lover who had a small castle built. They ran away to the small castle and were never seen from again. The Chhatrapati woman and her lover, Lyssa, lived in for the rest of their days, the castle was only recently found back in 200. The Keep of Pandia was built an unknown amount of time ago, long before the Chhatrapati were in charge, by the family that once ruled over Solidon. It had once served as keep and castle until the Chhatrapati took it. Since then it has become a barracks. The Keep of Ira is located near Solidon castle, it was built during the phoenix-dragon wars. Since then it has become a barracks and a place for healing.
Approved by River Rocker 3.4.17 Prior to Set up on 3.5.17
Posted: Sun Mar 05, 2017 12:29 pm
Baroness Youkimi Kai
Living today without a way To understand the weight of the world
The need to visit her homeland called to her again. Again with guard at her side, she personally flew over the land that seemed to be devastated still by the effects of the volcano. However, there were hints of buds beginning to break through the ash, in their very presence defying the destruction that had fallen. Ethe would not be dark forever, nor would its kingdom remain crippled. Though, even these observations that eyes could tell seemed ominously overshadowed by the ethereal crying... the child's voice that caused even the stoutest and most skeptical Ethian to shirk and to become anxious. Was it the land that cried? Was it another voice that called their attention?
Yet she had seen the activity continue normally in Bellris. None of them heard the crying, the voice. It was only those native to Ethe that did. It was Youkimi's luck that a child had confirmed this when he asked his friend about the crying, and his friend was confused.
But now, here she was, again drawn back to her homeland... but she came with a purpose beyond simply the pull that was the tearful voice. She turned to Solidon, castle of House Chhatrapati. As she understood it, they were of distant relation on her mother's side, sharing similar ancestry. She visited now and again as a youth and here she was coached to her best behavior.
She landed just at the front gates, a respectful distance away, and she and her guard resumed the functional human appearance. She was dressed in functional attire, feeling no need to present herself in finery or to attempt to intimidate anyone. No, this was her homeland, and her efforts were to repair this land. What was done here was another effort to see to the same result.
Her guard preceeded her and greeted the man who stood outside the front gate, holding his vigil.
"My lady, Baroness Youkimi of House Kai, calls upon the noble House Chhatrapati. Will your master accept this visit?"
Looking into her closet Chusi would stare a the luggage that she would be taking to the capital in a few days time, just a few simple cases holding clothing made in the western fashion. She had been ordered to go unarmed but that was not an order she could comply with, she had to bring her Kusarigama, it was a part of her just as a quill was apart of a writer or scissors part of a tailor. Her eyes lingered on the case where she had stowed the blades wrapped in a golden cloth before she closed the closet door in order to hide it from her sight.
A servant knocked on her bedroom door before entering, bowing low "My lady, a Baroness Kai has called upon the house" the servant said and Chusi nodded her head "Escort the Baroness into the courtyard and provide anything she requests, within reason" Chusi said to the servant whom would relay the orders to the guards, whom in turn would bow to Baroness Kai and opened the front gates. The guard, wearing the Chhatrapati colors of Dark green and gold would escort the Baroness inside to the courtyard before bowing "Please make yourself comfortable, our liege will be with you as soon as time allows" the guard stated as a chair was brought out for the Baroness and a servant came over to assist her with anything she may need.
Chusi swiftly walked toward her fathers chambers, knocking before she opened the door only to find the sleeping man. Chusi looked at the servant that was tasked to help her sleeping father at all times "Where is the Duchess?" she asked the servant and the Servant bowed "Mistress Katrina and her sons left to Solidon Lesser to make an iquiry on the growing overcrowding troubles ma'am" she servant said and Chusi nodded her head before closing the door and heading toward the stairs.
It would be about fifteen minutes but Chusi would soon make her way to the courtyard. She would take a few seconds to stand on the steps leading into the castle, her eyes adjusting to the bright light before she took the few steps down. Chusi walked toward The Baroness and she would stop a good five plus feet from The Baroness. Chusi remembered Youkimi just barely, They where nearly a full ten years apart and so Chusi had distant memories of Youkimi when she was younger, and more scattered memories as The Baroness grew up, but any recent ones where escaping her. Chusi knew of the relation they had, it was a distant one, distant enough that it seemed they didn't hold much similarities when it came to features, with the exception that they both seemed to have a slightly blue tint to their hair- but even then Chusi held a lighter shade.
Chusi would look at The Baroness, and a small smile would grace her lips before she bowed, lowering her body a few inches and bowing her head before standing up straight again "Lady Chusi Chhatrapati at your service." Chusi would look back up at the Baroness "Forgive us, but The Duke is predisposed, and the Duchess is out for the day. However it is a pleasure to greet you none the less." Chusi said, folding her hands together in front of her. "Would you like something to drink, Tea or Wine perhaps?"
Posted: Sun Mar 05, 2017 6:21 pm
Baroness Youkimi Kai
Living today without a way To understand the weight of the world
Thus welcomed into the estate, Youkimi and her guard were led to the courtyard. Welcomed amicably by the guards helped to set the baroness at ease. She found an open space in the courtyard, a stone bench that was clear of debris, proof that it was well tended to by the staff. Her guard took up a comfortable perch, overlooking the area with a calm gaze that was still as alert as ever. She was very grateful for Kauko's dedication and loyalty.
After a while, she was greeted by her relative. As was proper, she stood to greet the woman whose rank was higher than her own. There had always been that distance between them because of their ages. She was taking classes when she was still a toddler, and she grew out of her energetic younger years sooner than Chusi had. Nevertheless, they knew each other. Nevertheless, Youkimi was still pleasantly surprised to be greeted with introduction. She bowed in return.
"Baroness Youkimi Kai. It's a pleasure to be here on this fine day." Yes, for the weather today was beautiful, and it was a joy to fly through it. It was unfortunate to hear that the duke was ill. She could readily excuse them both, as life continued regardless of the choices she would make. She certainly wouldn't presume to have all of them here on her account.
"Some tea would suit me very well, thank you." An appreciative smile came to Youkimi's graceful features. Unlike this relative before her, Youkimi's build suggested that she was not built for strength or for strenuous fighting. Nay, she seemed too slight to handle what her younger distant cousin would have been able to handle with ease. But then, their families had branched slightly different in specialization over the generations. Honorable were both in service to their lands and people. "I'm sorry to hear that the duke is indisposed. I pray that he returns to the best of health. How do you fare, Lady Chhatrapati?"
Chusi looked over at a servant and smiled "Tea for Baroness Kai" she said before she moved over and took a seat across from Youkimi, moving her hands across the bottom of her legs in order to sweep the cloth smooth before she sat "I pray he recovers quickly, however the Chhatrapati family has a history of such illness... and we are well aware that he will most likely never recover. None the less, until such a time comes to pass, my mother and elder brother help to maintain the families well being." Chusi said to her, turning her head when she saw the servant coming back on hurried feet with a platter. It gave Chusi enough time to look toward the mountains looming far in the distance, toward Mt. Paytah, Adara, and Shaelia, she wished she could go find where the crying was coming from- but she could not leave the grounds, part of her punishment.
Chusi turned her head back, giving her guest a small smile as the servant set the platter down, it had two tea cups decorated with delicate flowers- very out of place for such a military based family, the delicacy of the cups seems to be amplified in such a place. The servant opened up a small container, letting out a slightly smoky aroma, the servant would spoon a small amount of the loose leaf tea into pieces of cloth before pulling on a string and tieing them closed, placing the tea into the cups just as Chusi coughed slightly "Thank you, I will serve Baroness Kai, you are dismissed" she said and the servant bowed her head, turning and placing a smaller silver platter down and removing the lid to show a small assortment of open faced sandwiches cut into small circles no bigger than two quarters put together. They where all of the savory and salty variety- most likely to compliment the smoky scent of the tea.
Chusi reached forward and took the handle of the tea pot and firstly poured some steaming water gently into Youkimi's cup, the leaves darkening the water and letting the smoky scent waft up into the air as Chusi poured herself some tea as well "The tea is of a Souchong variety, harvested and smoked right here in Ethe." Chusi said as she put the tea pot down, the only sound being a gentle tap as the pot touched the platter "It has a more unique flavor however what it lacks in regularity the smoking of the leaves is what gives the tea more zeal then most" Chusi said to her as she picked up the tea cup, however seeming to forget to pick it up by the handle, revealing her scarred hands as she brought the cup to her lips, breathing in the scent before taking a quite sip "I am doing quite well actually. However if I may speak candidly?" Chusi asked, looking over at the Baroness as she held the teacup, letting it warm up her hand "Rumor has been flittering around that Emperor Azazel has remarried to an Ethian woman not to long ago." Chusi started off as she looked down at her tea, placing it back down on the table "I went against my families orders and I am to be sent to the Capital to be a Lady in Waiting to this supposed new Empress... as punishment." Chusi sighed, bringing the opposite hand to her temple "It is irritating to even think about having to serve in the capital instead of maintaining my place here" Chusi said, obviously cross at having to leave Ethe.
Posted: Mon Mar 06, 2017 12:07 am
Baroness Youkimi Kai
Living today without a way To understand the weight of the world
Youkimi took a nearby seat and bowed her head in thanks while the appetizers and the tea was brought. The servant, excused with gratitude, was soon out of sight. Her attention turned to the interesting variant on a tea she had grown up learning etiquette. The smoke of the flavor was interesting, and Chusi was correct, there was a unique zest to it. Fortunately also, the selected snacks that were brought beautifully complimented the flavor. There was a finery to this that reminded her of much better days... It was a finery she rarely tasted these days.
"Thank you very much." Youkimi voiced as she lowered her cup of tea carefully. The taste still lingered on her tongue, not unlike how ash clung to the ground as farmers tilled it. It was very fitting.
At the request to speak candidly, Youkimi's attention returned to Chusi and she nodded. Patiently listening, she took in the information as it came. It was... at the same time interesting and worrisome. A woman from Ethe was married to the Emperor? ... The same emperor whose mannerisms and behavior made him a danger to himself and to those he associated with? ... There were also other rumors, but she couldn't dare think of them here.
"I'm sorry to hear this is the case. Ethe will lose a powerful and respected woman. However.... I can't think of many who I would trust to remain at the side of our Ethian who is so close to our.... esteemed emperor."
She wanted to be as polite as possible and afford all due respect to the high title. However, she had absolutely no trust or respect for the man... especially not if what she deduced and learned was really the truth. She didn't want to think about it. "Perhaps this is an opportunity?"
Chusi sighed "I can see how it can be an opportunity" Chusi said as she picked up the tea cup again "it isn't the fact that I will be serving that has me in a less then grateful mood, it is the rumors I hear about the Emperor that has be defensive about even stepping foot into Lionis" Chusi brought the tea cup to her lips and tilted it slightly, letting the hot water rest against her lip as she just took in the scent. She then brought it away and sighed "That he has a.... more then healthy... liking to bedroom activities" her sentence was broken up as if she was struggling to find polite words to used instead of outright saying that the Emperor was a murdering philanderer "I am less worried about how to serve the new Empress and more so about how to keep his eyes were they belong, on his wife."
Chusi let a hard breath out though her nose as she looked at the ground, attempting to think before shaking her head "I apologize for the unfavorable topic, I know one should not put so much stock in rumors, but with how many crude ones are floating about, it is quite difficult to ignore when one is going into such a situation that they are supposedly depicting" Chusi said "As for the Emperors greatness, If you do not support his 'esteemed highness' you are welcome to speak freely. When he rose against Empress Catherine House Chhatrapati did not support his claim and refused to lend aid. Though we are not vocal on his reign we continue to refuse his order, and unless it comes from the lips of our queen House Chhatrapati does not acknowledge his rule." Chusi took a deep breath "Of course we will not rebel against the crown... Just, know that House Chhatrapati first and foremost will always stand for Ethe, and not those that would see its people entombed in ashes and its land drained dry for personal gain" Chusi's voice rose slightly and she had to bring the tea back to her lips and take a long drink, closing her eyes before putting the cup back down "My apologies, I did not mean to speak as such, It is not my place to divulge my families standing in all of this" she said as she poured herself some more water, the tea leaves once again darkening the water.
Chusi would sit back and let the tea leaves seep "However, I would like to hear your opinion. Your words could quite possibly lighten my thoughts of going into Lionis. How might this be an Opportunity?" she asked
OOC: Sorry for not quoting, I've forgotten ^^''
Rihenian
Posted: Tue Mar 07, 2017 2:05 am
Baroness Youkimi Kai
Living today without a way To understand the weight of the world
That was something Youkimi felt similarly about.... If the emperor in any way represented Lionis... it did not paint a pretty picture of the country. It didn't have a strong claim concerning the power of their discipline if the emperor vaunted himself so much as to be so.... It was cruel and demeaning to be in any way affiliated with such a man who would presume to put himself upon others. ... If the rumors were to be believed, he was no man of worth.
Youkimi nodded slightly, unable to bring herself to say much. However, the permission to freely speak was indeed comforting. Yes, unfortunately there was much to worry about with the current emperor. He was not a man to be trusted, not with how he treated others and behaved. This was why they were particularly defensive of the new empress. This woman was one of their own.
"Who can say if rumors are without base?" Youkimi softly suggested, giving weight to the idea that rumors themselves had their place. If there was no base for the rumors, no reason for them possibly happening, then the rumors wouldn't exist. If nothing else, rumors were most effective at painting someone in the worst possible light, and betrayed the essence of a person at their worst. They could not all be believed, of course, but there was also something remarkably telling in how a person responded to the rumors about themselves. It begged the question... did the Emperor know about these rumors? And if so... how did he feel about them?
Ah... but these were mere random questions. Youkimi found her heart siding with Chusi again in regards to their lack of loyalty to the emperor. He had not earned Ethe's loyalty, though Youkimi could not deny that there had been help given to the people... however it was measured. The queen mentioned this herself, and she could not deny its weight to the queen. But even so... to see the queen in such a way, distant, almost as though her spirit and energy had been severely wounded... While there had been help provided by the Emperor.... there must have been a catch. Bellris as a nation wanted something. What had the emperor wanted? And why did she dread knowing?
She attention in the conversation was sound. She was actually very relieved that Chusi felt so comfortable around her as to speak so openly and candidly about her feelings, not only about the situation, but with everything that was going on. It was nice to have an account that wasn't drenched in politics and the heaviness of saying the wrong thing. It felt true.
"All is forgiven. It is good to hear true feelings." How might this be an opportunity? Youkimi smiled and again lowered the cup of tea, letting the flavor of the wonderful brew rest a moment on her tongue before she swallowed. Dark blue eyes focused on brilliant gold ones as she answered.
"It is good to have someone close to the young empress. Though her newly wedded husband is questionable, there is power in being so close and to have a first hand account of who the man really is. There, you may discern for yourself reality from rumor much better than any on the outside might be able to attain. It is also a better vantage point to see how this might affect the people he is supposed to serve and protect as a whole. For instance, if one were to question his authority, would he side for peace or would he encourage war among the nations? Merely because one in power marries someone from a certain nation does not guarantee that nation will be somehow valued above others or protected merely by association."
Youkimi felt very curious about this. She wasn't sure who the man really was. She had suspicions, but at present, they were only that. Was he one who favored the illusion of glory in war? Was he a coward? Would he side for peace? Was he strong enough to actually lead? And even then, was he strong enough to truly master himself? She did worry that he would use his clout against an already weak and desperate nation. She worried he had already imposed himself upon them. His new wife was from Ethe. He might use Ethe's condition for his own gain...
Chusi listened to the Baroness and nodded her head, though Youkimi made quite a few points Chusi couldn't help but feel a little anxious, this was the Emperor after all, and she knew nothing of the Empress, however surely this Empress being from Ethe would carry the traits of someone from Ethe and hopefully would understand the situation. Chusi would look over at the Baroness and smile "Your words lighten my spirit Baroness Youkimi. Though I am still less than pleased to have to go, you have given me less to worry about" she said as she picked her tea cup back up and turned her head toward the mountains, the direction of the crying.
Chusi would then once again look back down at her tea "Everyone seems uncomfortable today, the crying from the mountain has everyone on edge" Chusi said as she brought the tea up to her lips and took a sip, it was less smoky now and more watered down since she used the same tealeaves. Chusi put the tea down "From what I gather everyone from Solidon greater to Solidon lesser are hearing the crying" Chusi reached forward and took a small biscuit that had a small amount of mayonnaise, cheese curd and green olives, in between her fingers "One of my servants was raving about the gods being angry that Ethe is suffering... have you heard anything?" she asked her as she took a bite of the biscuit.
Rihenian
Posted: Tue Mar 07, 2017 7:01 pm
Baroness Youkimi Kai
Living today without a way To understand the weight of the world
Fortunately, there was time for the Ethian women to become acquainted, especially from the sound of the arrangement. Yes, it was always unfortunate to leave Ethe, but there was fortune in remembering that the nation was recovering. Now, perhaps, Chusi could go forth with confidence in a goal alongside protecting the new wife of the emperor.
Then the conversation turned to the mutual discomfort all from Ethe felt and heard. Youkimi set aside the empty teacup and decided against filling it again. She picked up one of the small sandwiches and cradled it gracefully on her fingers as she reflected over that day and those she had spoken with.
"The refugees in Bellris hear it too. However, those of other countries do not hear the crying or the tears..." Youkimi shook her head. "It is the land... But whether it cries for pain, longing, loss, or yearning escapes us all. We belong here. But.... I worry that the land mourns because our people mourn. The fiery mountain is as much a part of our home as the fertile fields. And our people and land have been taken advantage of..."
Youkimi looked absently at the tasty morsel in her hand. She lifted it carefully to her face and bit into it. As she tasted it, she allowed her mind to calm again. She swallowed the small bite.
"We all mourn... But as for why this phenomena exists, I cannot rightly or easily explain myself." Though, she wished she knew the answer.
Chusi nodded and then lowered her head "I see...." Chusi said as she looked over to a servant "Sybilla, If you would be so kind as to do me a favour." Chusi asked her servant and the woman nodded "please fly to the Mountains and locate where the crying is coming from, it should be where it is the loudest and most painful to hear. When you return you will be rewarded for your effort" she said and Sybilla nodded her head before taking a few steps away and transforming into a beautiful golden and red Phoenix in order to fly off toward the mountains. The wind caused by Sybilla's wings causing Chusi's hair to fly around, and when the woman was gone she ran her fingers though and smoothed it back down "The only way to find the cause is to go looking for it Baroness Youkimi, and since I can not leave the grounds... well, I will wait for Sybilla"
Chusi smiled at Youkimi before finishing off her small biscuit "Ever since the eruption I have been reading. Something like this should be something we are use to, after all we live near three such giants." Chusi said to her "and after several stories I seem to have found some things that may be of use to you." Chusi turned to look at the Baroness, giving her full attention "Solidon has some farming land so we will be testing it first before releasing the knowledge to the other houses, but according to what me and my youngest brother found, despite all the suffering this tragedy as caused, this may be exactly what Ethe needs." Chusi leaned back in her chair, however she retained her posture "Bellris has monopolized food production, its something even the smallest child knows. All kingdoms must buy from Bellris, even the Emperor must bow to them in order to feed his people."
Chusi took a deep breath "Back when house Quatrez first began its rule under King Polonius one of my family members headed the treasury for short time after Mt. Adara erupted in 131, my house has records of several years when we could feed our own people with minimal assistance from Bellris...And according to the records it was just about a year after Mt.Adara's eruption in 131. Our capital became the first city to grow to have one million people... of course now we struggle to even manage the few thousand we have left... if that" Chusi said as she closed her eyes, pressing her lips together as she let out an irritated unladylike breath of annoyance to leave her nose before she looked up at Lady Kai "In a short version, I have managed to persuade my brother to give an order to the people of Lesser and Greater Solidon to mix the soil found around the volcano with the soil here in Solidon. If what I expect will happen will, then all that has gone wrong within the last year could possibly be used to our gain." Chusi said to Lady Kai
Rihenian
Posted: Sat Mar 11, 2017 6:08 pm
Baroness Youkimi Kai
Living today without a way To understand the weight of the world
Youkimi found herself curious about whether or not this loyal servant would find anything at the mountain. If it was a voice that sung to the minds of Ethians, did it have an origin that eyes would be able to detect? And if it was found, what could be done about it? Could this origin be consoled? Could it even be communicated with...?
But then, there was the distinct chance that Youkimi might have been overthinking the idea. There was so much she didn't know, and her naturally inquisitive nature led her to desire an answer... but sometimes, there wasn't an answer to satisfy. If there was an answer, she would be quite willing to hear it. However, she found herself hoping that Sybilla would remain safe and return safe to this castle she served.
"She appears a very capable individual," Youkimi said as she watched Sybilla depart. No sooner had this been set in motion than Chusi began to explain what was on her mind and what her family had done thus far. Research found what Dixon and herself managed to gain hints of in time past. Though in Bellris the accounts were different, what she was able to hear from Chusi was that Ethe's account of the last eruption had given way to more profitable agriculture, enough to wean themselves from Bellris' stocks. This, indeed, was excellent news. And if this work took place not only in Titanus' lands, but here in the lands that the Chhatrapati family governed, perhaps they could again rebuild their nation.
Intrigued, Youkimi's smile betrayed how well she received the good news. "This is very hopeful news. Have your people heard of this possibility or do you wish to let the crop show the result of this experiment?"
Year 202 Epsilon Empire of Drosselmeyer Second Year into the Reign of Emperor Azazel
Posted: Mon Jul 31, 2017 10:29 am
Duke Chai Chhatrapati and Lady Chusi Chhatrapati 350EC clothing: Blue
Chusi slammed into the front step of Solidon castle, it was ******** freezing and she had greatly overestimated her ability to make it though the flight as she changed back into her human form stood up. Her entire body no longer stood from the cold, but she could feel with great certainty that this was going to cost her. She pushed open the door and two servants on the inside quickly started to shut it. She walked up to her room and ordered the servants to start a fire as she stripped of her clothing, walking over to her wardrobe to put on a blue one that made her feel less cold with its extra layers, this one was meant for winter. She could probably last a good twenty minutes outside in this.
Once the fire was lit she went over and sat on the ground next to it, placing her hands as close as she could to the fire, they where pulsing red and seemed to have been turning purple. The door opened and her brother walked into the room, silently closing it behind him. He would take a seat on the chair behind her. Though he had brown hair that he seemed to have taken from their shared mother, they both had the same Chhatrapati smile, thin eyebrows, and golden eyes. He would say nothing and wait as Chusi sighed Hows Hye Kyo?" Chusi asked without looking back at her brother, and Chai would sigh "Not well thanks to the cold, She was already frail without the child, but now..." Chusi nodded her head, some words didn't need to be spoken.
They would remain in silence for a long while before Chusi finally stood and went to the chair opposite him "Do you think you love her enough?" she asked him but he would instantly start shaking his head "I love her as much as father loved mother, but that wasn't enough for them" he said and Chusi nodded her head before looking back at the fire and slouching down and trying to get her toes closer to the fire "We'll find out next month weather it was enough... How went the party at the Count of Titanias estate?" he asked and Chusi pressed her lips together and shrugged. "...Chusi you hotheaded fool, what did you do?" he asked, his voice suddenly became stern and the creek of the chair could be heard as he sat up. But she said nothing again "Chusi....." he said and she then rolled her eyes as she to sat up and looked at her brother, he followed her with those golden eyes they shared and she stood up, turning to him "That ******** count walks all over us! He uses us for only what he needs and then doesn't tell us anything else! he's seducing our people over to his lands trying to strengthen the east of ethe without giving a damn about the western border, giving everyone credit except for Solidon. Refusing to keep us up to date on things while taking credit for everything! Why should we help him!-"
"WHAT DID YOU DO!" Chai yelled at her with a booming voice that shook the room and sent a chandelier crashing down in the living room if the crashes and the screams where anything to go by. Blood could be seen escaping from around his teeth and Chusi stood up straight and looked at him "I told him that Solidon protects its own." she said as she stilled her face, expecting a slap to follow but instead she saw her brothers Golden eyes turn cold "Ethe is our own!" he yelled at her and then turned around, going into a slurr of Ethen words that had Chusi looking at the ground "I have to fix this" he said as he turned back to look at her, wagging his finger "I have to fix this!" he repeated as he started to leave "WHY!" Chusi yelled back at him "We are treated like nothing! We have asked for nothing despite our sacrifices! We are living corpses because of other families! This Titanus is just another Manasa!" she yelled at him.
Chai stopped in the doorway If he is, then that's more reason to stay close to him. I will write an apology on your behalf. You will retract your statements. and you will continue to help Ethe! DO YOU UNDERSTAND!" he yelled the last bit at Chusi and she nodded her head before sitting down "you are confined to your room without visitors. Do not disobey me" he said before he slammed the door behind him. Chusi knew he was going to do this, but she couldn't help but feel betrayed and foolish. He was her family and he was going to contradict everything she had just told the Count, she couldn't help but feel hurt.
Prince Argos Chhatrapati and Lady Chusi Chhatrapati 350EC clothing: Blue
Chusi stood next to her older brothers wife, Hye Kyo, as she sobbed. Chusi placed a hand on the pregnant woman's back to comfort her. The woman was devastated to know that they had not been meant for each other, She had loved Chai with all her heart but it seemed that that still hadn't been enough. Chusi whispered gently to her trying to get her to take more breaths between her crys so that the child wouldn't hurt, but she was distracted as her second brother walked into the room dressed to the nines with a long fur cape. Argos bent on one knee as if to mourn his older brother but instead he lifted his hand and took the family seal from his finger and placed it on his own. "What are you doing?" Chusi asked and Argos shrugged "Taking my rightful place in the world, this is now mine" he said and Chusi moved away, her mouth opening slightly but then closing as three guards marched in, one grabbing Hye Kyo by her delicate arm while the other two held Chusi.
Argos would move away from his brothers comatose body "Solidon has been at the heels of royalty for far to long, We have served for generations for nothing to be returned, we had done nothing wrong and we are set aside for peasants playing dress up" he said as he paced back "The Chhatrapati family ever since Queen Alexis had held the military power in Ethe and its about time we remind everyone that we are still just as strongas we once were" he said and Chusi nodded her head in agreement, she had long believed such words and she found it was like Argos was echoing her, which she wasn't particularly fond about. Argos then stopped pacing and stood in front of Chusi "We pledged ourselves to the Eta Mara'e line and then again when the Quatrez family began ruling, but now we hear nothing from our queen and a the common people have the gall to order us around, wanting our people to relocate and leave Solidon." he said and raised his head "I have chosen my first act as Duke will be to no longer use such a mundane title. I am as of now the Prince of Solidon State, and Ethe is no longer our motherland" he said.
This caused Chusi to look at him for a second in a quizzical fashion, was he serious? She had to press her lips together as a snort of laughter came from her nose and Argos tilted his head back down "you think I'm joking?" he asked and Chusi tried to shake her head, but she ultimately failed and started nodding, her mouth pulling and showing her teeth pressed hard together as she ended up hissing in laughter. She looked up at her brother once she had gained enough composure "It...it sounds so s-s--stupid, Prince Argos" she pressed her lips back together and tried to hold back another bout of laughter and she looked down as her ribs heaved with each swallow of breath.
Argos looked at her and nodded a head to the guard, and the guard bowed before promptly smacking her with a armored hand, causing Chusi's laughter to instantly die as she felt her skin split around her lips and blut rush to her cheeks as she already felt her skin start to bruise "you and Chai never respected me, always thought my ideas where beneath you and ill planned." he said "but now look whos wrong. I am a prince! Solidon is independent and we will solidify that independence!" he said as he folded his hands behind his back "We will attack Antigone and then expand into Phobos once we have won" he said and Chusi said nothing, Argos turned around and looked at her, moving down on to his knees and looking up at her "Don't you approve?" he asked her with a strange sparkle in his eyes, but Chusi shook her head and the sparkle vanished as Argos stood up and gut punched her, causing Chusi to retch and cough hard "You and Chai never approved of my plans, father never approved either." Argos said as he moved back and moved his cape away from his sides to reveal the Chhatrapati family sword and he slowly drew it "You two never respected me and always dismissed my ideas." he said as he pulled out the sword and let the blade crack against the ground "I'm smart right?" he said as he looked at his guards who said nothing.
Argos looked back at Chusi "I can make the Chhatrapati house rise to power again, something Chai couldn't do...something dad couldn't do! he said as he raised the sword "Why wont you help me!" he yelled as he raised the sword and ran it across Chusi's front, causing the woman eyes to go wide as blood came from her mouth, her kimono split. Argos looked at her with tears brimming in his eyes "I was never enough for you guys!" he said as he stabbed her in the arm "I just want to be included!" he said and ripped the sword out and aimed for her throat next, but Chusi moved, using her uninjured arm to rip free, the blade catching her eye and causing her to scream as dropped to the ground, but she wouldn't let this stop her as she rolled toward the window and looked up at her brother with her good eye "Are you ******** Crazy!" she yelled at him and Argos stopped for a second as if contemplating what she asked, at it was all she needed as she slammed her shoulder into the window and broke though, free falling toward the ground before transforming into a golden Phoenix and flying East.
Argos looked at the broken window for a moment before dropping the sword and yelling at his guards "Get her back!!!" he screamed, his voice going high as he threw a vase full of flowers, causing Hye Kyo to cover her head on instinct. The guards quickly followed orders and flew out the window after Chusi. Argos slammed his foot into the ground and yelled out the window "I wasn't done! I wasn't f**king done!!" he screamed after her.
The Land of Solidon is for the majority, rather flat, not including some inclines and hills that seem to run together and in the big picture are rather unnoticeable. Most of the Population resides in the temperate grasslands that make up most of the North and North Eastern parts of the province, while some more hardy live in the Steppes, few people live in the Desert region and those that do are normally let alone.
