Maya Rousseau Stood At The Dockside Of The Boat Race, The Midday Sun Casting Shimmering Reflections On

Maya Rousseau stood at the dockside of the boat race, the midday sun casting shimmering reflections on the water. The event, meticulously organized by the Ortiz, was a grand spectacle, yet there was an underlying tension, a sense of something more calculated beneath the surface. As she observed the boats and the lavish spread of food, she couldn't help but be drawn into her thoughts. The assassination of the Queen of Spain and the political unrest had left her wary of grand displays and public events. Every detail, every gesture, seemed to carry potential implications and yet she tried to keep calm for her sons sake..

Her attention was drawn to a woman standing under one of the canopies, fanning herself and gazing out towards the boats. Maya recognized her immediately—Rose, the Minister of Art from Germany. Though they had never spoken until now, Maya knew of her reputation and her sharp intellect. The Deputy Prime Minister turned slightly towards Rose, her expression sharp and focused. "Convenient indeed," she replied, her voice tinged with suspicion. "It's hard not to see this as more than just an innocent event, especially given the current climate."

She took a moment to assess Rose, appreciating her candidness and recognizing a kindred spirit in the political games they both navigated. "These grand displays often have layers of intent," Maya continued, her tone more guarded. "Bringing people together can be as much about control and influence as it is about celebration."

° • — OPEN starter ( 0 / 3 ) ° • — dockside of the boat race, midday

" a boat race, " the minister remarked as she fanned herself, standing under one of the canopies set up on the dockside. her gaze aimed outwards, towards the boats. she would admit, the ortiz had set up a wonderful event — or it would be, if it didn't feel tactless. the spread of food was grand and the prize for winning even grander. rose could give benefit of the doubt, events took meticulous planning and they were even gracious enough to let bonapartes and affiliates alike attend; yet the minister could also see how it could all be one large play. rose was not royalty, but she played the games royals played and had for years at maceon's side. she was not blind, nor was she fooled.

" seems rather . . . convenient, wouldn't you say? " the beauty mused to the one standing next to her. she would not hide her suspicions of the ortiz, for she was not of either spanish courts nor did she fear any retribution.

Lady Célestine couldn't help but let out a melodic laugh as Maceon approached, his charm and confidence a stark contrast to the more reserved demeanor of the kitchen maid. "Ah, Maceon, always the knight in shining armor," she teased, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "I suppose I could use a lesson in the proper way to request a drink."

She watched as the kitchen aide, Abebe, moved to fulfill Maceon's request, her own glass now brimming with a far superior drink. "Merci, Abebe," she said with a gracious nod before turning her attention back to Maceon, her expression warm and inviting. As Abebe moved to fulfill the request, Célestine turned her attention back to Maceon, her smile warm and welcoming. "Mon cher, I could never turn down such delightful company," she said, her tone playful. "I wasn't planning on drinking alone, but it seems fate has provided me with a much better alternative."

The Redhead raised her newly filled glass, her eyes meeting Maceon's with a hint of challenge. "The occasion is simply the pursuit of good conversation and better company. So, tell me, Maceon, what brings you to the kitchens this fine evening? And are you prepared to keep up with me?"

Swallowing down a laugh with a splash of drink, Maceon shook his head quietly as a grin licked upon his wolfish lips, eyes peering discreetly at the interaction between the French woman && the kitchen aide. " Lady Célestine, you go about your request all wrong! " Maceon finally spoke, chuckling as he approached the scene, and raised an eyebrow at the maid. " She is a friend of mine. Fill her glass, please, and show her how Ethiopia treats their honored guests. The good stuff, Abebe, please && my sincerest gratitude. "

Eyes returned to hers, glimmering like oceanwater gemstones. " This is how you get things done, mon cher. " He cast a sweeping glance about the kitchens, and tilted his head with another chuckle. " Tell me not you have come to drink alone? What is the occasion, and I insist, you allow me to join in the fun. "

Lorena was slightly startled, looked up as King Alexander of Scotland addressed her. The early morning light streaming through the library’s paned windows illuminated the area. She had been lost in her own thoughts, reflecting on the weight of her recent experiences...

"Your Majesty," Lorena began, her voice carrying a melodic Spanish lilt. She offered a graceful curtsy, her composed demeanor returning swiftly. "I was hoping to find a copy of Cervantes' Don Quixote. Its tales of chivalry and adventure have always provided me a certain escape and inspiration. And you, Your Majesty? 

/ Open /

Alexander had just returned from a ride, it was early in the morning and the only light from the library came from the flooding morning rays through the paned window sill. He couldn't stop thinking about her, but he had important letters to return and he'd been wondering where his siblings had run off to or where they were spending their time. Interrupted from his thoughts briefly, he noticed someone walking into what he thought would be his place of solace for at least a few more hours. "It would seem we had the same idea for a morning hide out. Or have you come in actual search of a book?"

As she rode, her thoughts still lingering on the implications of recent events, Maya found herself drawn towards a familiar spot—a secluded outdoor water spring tucked away amidst the vibrant greenery of Brazil. The tension from the recent events on the Nagler lingered in the air, but here, surrounded by the natural beauty of the springs, she felt a momentary peace. Dismounting gracefully, Maya approached the bubbling pools, the sound of water providing a soothing backdrop to her troubled thoughts. Her mind began to settle as she immersed herself in the tranquil atmosphere, the warmth of the springs offering a comforting embrace. Maya, surprised yet composed, turned towards the man with a nod of acknowledgment. "Indeed, it's a rare luxury to find such peace in times like these," she replied, her voice carrying a hint understanding.

OPEN STARTER -- Outdoor Water Springs

The tension was tangible in the air after everything that had happened on the Nagler, everyone clearly on edge and anxious as their stay in Brazil commenced, but one thing about this place was how beautiful and green it all was, totally different from the vast hills of Scotland, but beautiful in its own right. He'd met up with Aurora at the Springs the night before but he found himself there again after a long ride on the beach. Rinsing off the day and enjoying the hot pulses of water on his aching muscles, he hadn't noticed that someone had joined him. "I don't think that I've ever felt water quite so relaxing," he said, sinking back for propriety's sake as he leant back on the edge of the pools.

"Lady Cordelia Mackenzie, it is a pleasure to meet you," Lorena said, returning the warm smile with one of her own. "I am Princess Lorena Catalina Ortiz. Your kind words are much appreciated." She paused for a moment, considering the unexpected but welcome interruption. "Music has a way of bringing people together, does it not? I find it to be a language that transcends titles, nations and ideologies ."

As she spoke, Lorena gestured for Cordelia to take a more comfortable seat. "Please, stay and enjoy the music. Perhaps we can share more than just melodies; If I am not mistaken you are part of the Scottish envoy? I would love to hear about Scotland and your experiences there. I have heard that it's a beautiful country." Lorena resumed playing, a softer, more inviting tune this time, hoping to create an atmosphere of warmth. "Tell me, Lady Cordelia, do you play an instrument as well? 

❝ that it  is,  ❞   she  agreed.  since  she wasn't asked to leave, cora took a seat nearby, whether she'd only enjoy the music or garner new information through conversation it'd be an enjoyable way to pass the time.   ❝ you're too kind. it's i who is getting the gift of listening to such lovely music. ❞   a warm smile was offered.  ❝ oh, how rude of me to not introduce myself. i'm lady cordelia mackenzie. ❞

Célestine turned at the sound of Midori's voice, her own smile widening into a genuine grin. "Ah, madam, you have impeccable timing," she quipped, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Indeed, the good stuff seems to be in short supply, but it appears you have come to the rescue." Her gaze fell on the bottle of Japanese whiskey with an appreciative nod. "Your resourcefulness never ceases to amaze me. And I must say, you carry off that skirt with quite the flair, hidden bottles and all."

The Redhead shifted slightly, making room for Midori beside her. "It’s true what they say—adversity breeds the best of friendships," she mused, reaching out to take the bottle. "I would be honored to share a drink with you." She deftly uncorked the whiskey and poured two generous measures into the waiting glasses, handing one to Midori. "To resourcefulness, friendship, and finding the best spirits in the most unexpected places," she toasted, her tone both lighthearted and sincere. As they clinked their glasses, Célestine settled back, her earlier frustrations melting away. "Tell me, how have you been navigating these grand halls? Any new adventures to share?" she asked, eager to hear more

She's come a long way from her brass knuckles and rebellious streak. In fact, she's come a long way. Almost lady like in her approach into the kitchens, for a private nip. But the familiar figure of Celestine gives her pause, and a subsequent laugh. Perhaps there is a discernable, middle ground where Midori may simply exist. "Have they been skimping on the good stuff?" She questions with a cheeky grin, lifting the hand behind her to reveal a bottle of Japanese whiskey. "I've learned to keep my own. One of the few benefits of this massive skirt." She says with a roll of her eyes, settling beside the Lady. It's taken longer to endear herself to Max's niece. Over-protective and equally headstrong, as she was. But over drinks, the divide shorten until all she can see is a discernible friend. "Will you drink with me?"