"That Sounds Fascinating," Lorena Replied With Genuine Interest, Her Voice Carrying A Hint Of Curiosity.

"That sounds fascinating," Lorena replied with genuine interest, her voice carrying a hint of curiosity. "I've never been to Cardiff, but your description paints a vivid picture. Rugged coastlines and rolling green hills— it sounds like a place that embraces the raw beauty of nature." She imagined the contrast between Cardiff's landscape and the vibrant warmth of Copacabana Beach, yet she wanted to speak of her homeland. "In Spain, where I come from, we have diverse landscapes too," Lorena continued, her tone reflective. "The south of Spain holds a special place in my heart," the Spaniard began, her voice carrying a soft, nostalgic tone, she missed it. "From the sun-drenched shores of Andalusia to the countryside, with its olive groves and vineyards, it's truly a sight to see..."

She had been eager to experience the famed beauty of Copacabana Beach. The moment she set foot on the sandy expanse, she felt a sense of freedom and peace that was often elusive in her life. The sun was warm against her skin, and the sound of the ocean was a soothing balm to her restless mind. As she stood near the shoreline, taking in the vastness of the sea, a soft voice called out to her.  Esme smiled, "I am, the view here is quite breathtaking," she replied, her voice gentle and warm. "In Cardiff, where I come from, the landscape is quite different. We have rugged coastlines and rolling green hills, which have their own charm, but there's something magical about the warmth and vibrancy of this place."

open starer; interactions with lorena ortiz:

location: copacabana beach

Lorena strolled along the sandy expanse of Copacabana Beach, the waves gently lapping at her bare feet. The sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm, golden glow over the azure waters. She paused to take in the beauty of the scene, the rhythmic sound of the ocean filling her ears. As she turned to continue her walk, her eyes caught sight of a figure standing alone near the shoreline. "Excuse me," she called out softly, not wanting to startle him. "Are you enjoying the view as much as I am?"

Maya nodded in agreement, her diplomatic training guiding her response. "They do have a timeless charm, don't they?" she replied warmly. "I'm sorry, but I don't believe we've been introduced. I'm Maya Rousseau, the Deputy Prime Minister of France, and this is my son, Nicholas." The mother smiled warmly at her son, encouraging him gently. "Nicholas, why don't you say hello to our new friend?" With his ever so curious and friendly nature, he turned to the woman with a bright grin. "Salut" he exclaimed cheerfully, his youthful energy evident in his voice.

Elisa had a particular fondness for France. For all the Orleans' decadence they had a sense of self preservation that was admirable, to say the least. Gilded puppets, bowing to a constitutional monarchy. And soon, God willing, to no monarchy at all. When she noticed the Deputy Prime Minister and who she presumed to be her little son in the courtyard, Elisa decided to take a stroll herself. As she came closer, the boy pointed at her - probably because of the bruises still on her face and neck. "There is no need to apologize," she smiled sweetly, "I just thought the fresh air would do me some good. "Hello," she said to the boy before turning back to his mother. "I love the courtyards...they look just as I've remembered them..."

Lorena turned her gaze to the sky, mirroring the Athenian's contemplative posture. The cool night air was a welcome contrast to the oppressive atmosphere inside the ballroom. “The ballroom is indeed stifling,” Lorena agreed softly, her voice carrying a hint of empathy.

As her eyes traced the patterns of the stars above. The stars, with their distant, unwavering light, seemed to offer a sanctuary of honesty and clarity, a stark contrast to the deceptive glamour of the royal gala. Lorena often felt like a performer on a grand stage, playing a part dictated by her title and duties. Every move, every word was scrutinized, measured, and judged by those around her. The endless dance of politics and power within the palace walls left little room for genuine expression or vulnerability. Finally, Lorena looked at the other, her eyes reflecting the starlight. “I would much rather listen to the stars. They speak a language of eternity, one that reminds us of our place in the universe and the fleeting nature of our earthly concerns."

“ — the ballroom is stifling. “ zelenia said, her emerald gaze still aimed towards the sky. “ full of faces playing a part, selfish desires and unspoken wars waiting to be waged. “ though she was there, attending the gala as any other royal was; it did not mean she wanted to be there and she imagined that was the case for many.

zelenia was quiet for a moment, before adding — “ the stars are honest. they shine, unapologetically, and tell their story without deceit. those in athens believe the stars are souls lost to this world. “ finally, the oracle brought her stoic gaze down to the earth; looking at the spanish princess. “ i rather listen to the stars, wouldn’t you? “

Lorena's eyes sparkled with appreciation for the woman's poetic sentiment as she listened to her words about the ocean's allure. "I understand what you mean," Lorena replied softly, her voice carrying a hint of wonder. "The ocean has a way of drawing us in, inviting us to explore its mysteries and depths." She glanced out at the waves rolling gently onto the shore, the sun casting a golden hue over the water. "In Spain, near my family's estate, there's a beach where I used to spend hours as a child," Lorena continued, a nostalgic smile playing on her lips. "The sound of the waves crashing against the cliffs, the salty breeze... it always felt like a gateway to another world, my imagination always ran free."

Being away from the temple of Athena had freed up many hours of Safiye's day; and she found, she did not enjoy to spend this time cooped up within Paço Imperial palace. Shoes in hand, the lady trawled the beach, stopping to listen to the tales of the devil's side from the locals, feeling warm from the kiss of the setting sun. She may be twinged red across her nose, come morning, but Safiye held no regrets as she allowed water to wash over her toes, chin tilted && eyes closed as she tried to hear the sounds of sea through the wind. The Gods communicated through nature; and it was hard not to feel seen by greater beings when surrounded by such beauty. " The view... the feel of it all. " This, Safiye said eyes still closed, before opening them to turn && greet the speaker. " It is hard not to imagine you could just walk right into the ocean, enter a new world. "

"Not at all, Leonor. Your presence is always welcome," she replied, her voice reflecting the warmth she felt.  "This place does have a certain serenity." She moved slightly to make space for Leonor on the blanket, nodding in approval. "Please, join me," Maya said, gesturing to the spot beside her.

As Leonor settled down, the Deputy Prime Minister followed her gaze to Nicholas, who was running around with a group of other children, his laughter ringing out in the courtyard. "Nicholas is eight," she answered, her eyes softening with maternal pride. "He does have a way of bringing light wherever he goes. It's a gift, especially in times like these." Maya's smile deepened as she remembered their shared history. "It's been quite a journey since we first met at the English court, hasn't it?" she said, her voice tinged with nostalgia."I'm grateful for the friendship we've built, beyond the realms of politics." She reached out, giving Leonor's hand a gentle squeeze. "It's been too long. How has life been treating you?"

Leonor approached Maya with a soft smile, her demeanor warm and understanding. The tranquil setting of the Twin Soul Courtyards seemed to invite a sense of peace and reflection. "I hope I'm not intruding," Leonor began gently, her tone carrying a genuine concern. "This place holds such tranquility, doesn't it? A haven for moments of quiet contemplation." She gestured towards the cozy blanket spread beneath the ancient oak. "May I join you?" Leonor asked politely, indicating her desire to sit down beside Maya. "Please don't apologize if I'm the one intruding. Leonor settled down gracefully, her eyes briefly wandering to Nicholas, Maya's son, playing happily nearby. "Your son brings such joy to the courtyard," she remarked warmly, acknowledging the lively spirit he brought to the serene surroundings. "How old is he?"