Private A Royal Encounter

[Iwata Kin]

Iwata lead the patrol through the outer wall gate, the squad of Longma-mounted Jade Screamers forming up as they began to cross the expanse between the second and third walls surrounding Jar'Kai. They passed the familiar defensive positions and weapon emplacements dotting the open ground, the second wall looming ahead. Beyond was Lóngkou, the Great Wall, and home.

Sergeant Kin had led the long-range patrol, a ten-day venture into the more rugged terrain beyond the capitol, Longma were preferred over the Screamers light vehicles for the mission, given their ability to negotiate difficult landscape unfriendly to the cycles and skiffs used by the unit, and where aerial patrols and sensors could not easily penetrate. Safe within the walls, Iwata was already thinking about a shower and a hot meal in the commissary.

"Look!" The half-Umanushi heard one of the Screamers behind her call out. She turned to look at him, then up where his finger aimed. An airship was moving towards the Great Wall, a royal one. "Looks like Longkou has a visitor." She said, concealing her excitement. Was it the Emperor or Empress? Most likely not. It was more likely the Princess, who was more apt to visit various facilities and sites. Iwata hoped it was Junko Ike .

"Forward!" Iwata suddenly called out, raising her fist and then pointing towards the far gate of the second wall. The muted thud of padded hooves pounded the ground as a dozen of the large eight-legged mounts surged forward. The patrol made it through the second gate, slowing as they approached the first wall around Jar'Kai, Longkou. The mounts were left to the caretakers at the stables, and Iwata made her way inside, seeking to work her way to the top of the wall to see if the airship was indeed destined to land at the walled military installation. She made the briefest pause by the lieutenant's office to check in, promising to submit a full report after settling in. Stopping by the barracks, she dropped her gear and racked her crescent blade and lightbow. Remaining armored with sword girded at her side, Iwata rushed out again to discover who was visiting.

 

[Junko Ike]

Iwata Kin

The royal airship was one of the more impressive things they had brought back... with many of the older technologies from Atrisia being rewords, re-engineered and updated with technologies that gave them some of the best. SHe could see along the walls the war droids and orchid platforms that were set to patrol it... the suo cannons that could be coordinated and shiuelding generators as the airship didn't touch down it hovered over one of the high points on the wall and connected its ramp. JUnko departed with Xīfāng next to her.. she had bodyguards but they could get in the way and she was among the soldiers here whom were loyal to Atrisia so no real worries.

She walked in the kimono, jade greens with jakobeast furs at the cuffed and collar as she walked. THe temperature controlled kimono was perfect for any weather but it was meant to give a slightly more regal look as her hair was in a curtain behind her shoulders down to her waist. Hand clasped in front of herself as she walked giving a decent view of smooth hands most would say didn't do much but there was a saber and small pouch for spirit ichor on her hip. The solari make up giving her face an ivory look with in the shadows a pale blue glow when she was near others who were in the lightside of the force.

She was coming down for a moment as a few of the jade screamers were there.. the ones on the wall yes in their gleaming armor but a few had come out to see who was coming. Shōda and Shōwa were behind her two exiled princesses from one fo the Atrisian colonies. She was showing them around as they liked to be useful with the world that took them and many others in. Junko offered smiles to the people and bowed in greeting. "THank you captain for having us." SHe said it and there was always reports about things beyond the walls even with many of the improvements... since they had all of the villages and towns within.

"THis way princesses we haave some who just returned from patrol."

 

[Iwata Kin]

Iwata mounted the top of the broad wall, deftly navigating the war droids as well as the duty soldiers and others who gathered to watch the airship arrive. A few others of her patrol clambered up behind her, and they elbowed their way closer when they saw where the airship ramp had come to rest. Finally finding a place close where they could get a good view, the royal passengers of the ship descended. It was indeed Princess Ike!

Iwata, like many other Atrisians, greatly admired the Princess. Some dared to criticize her, but Iwata defended Junko Ike, who had done much to bring Atrisia back to it's glory. Others criticized the pomp of the royals, but Iwata was a Jade Screamer, fiercely loyal to the royal family. Arisia needed the traditions embodied in the aristocracy. Junko Ike proved a bridge between those Atrisian traditions of old and the new ideas and technologies. And she was a fascinating woman.

The Princess was beautiful, Iwata thought, watching Junko gracefully glide down the ramp with the giant cat at her side. Junko Ike seemed to be almost divine in her kimono, compared to those working the wall, and especially the Jade Screamers just back from patrol in dusty armor, skin and hair. Behind the Princess were the darling twin princesses, beauties in their own right. Iwata was familiar with them too, having spent time in the Colonies during the 'dark times'.

Turning, Iata flashed a beaming smile to a fellow Screamer next to her, a young man who had also been on patrol, who likewise seemed enamored with the guests. "I wonder why she is here," Iwata whispered to the Screamer on her other side, a petite but fierce woman short cropped hair. Then, to her surprise, It seemed the royal retinue were turning their way. A flutter rippled in Iwata's stomach. "Sergeant... here they come." The woman at her side whispered back.

 

[Junko Ike]

Iwata Kin

JUnko looked at the ones assembled that had come up to see them. She stopped there and looked at them for a moment allowing herself to be seen by all as she focused the force into her voice. The sounds on the wall were loudish... not deafening but you had the whine of the airship and some equipment which went a longer way. "THank you all for having us." She offered a smile to some of them and presented hands for them to greet and share with them. THey had brought some other things for them from the latest in enhancements to some prototypes and improved survival kits. "We brought some fo the latest for you as well as delicacies for all of the work you have been doing."

WIth many of the improvements to living modules and fabricators that would allow them to grow food and recycle materials it was easier to make food. THey had improved much fo the technology from the ground up and the farmers had advances to improve their lives so that all would rise themselves up. Junko offered some smiles as the captain brought her around and she looked at the group who had returned and dust wasn't a problem.. they worked hard and as one of the major units that used animals as mounts it was to be expected. "THis is sergeant Kin." JUnko looked at the woman and bowed a greeting as she spoke.

"It is lovely to meet all of you." JUnko offered her hands to shake as the twins behind her spoke about some of the screamers. not disparingly more they were looking a little surprised some of the soldiers looked so plain and average. "I thought soldiers were muscled and scary." Shōwa said it as Junko turned to look at her and she spoke. “One ought not to be unkind to a woman merely on account of her plainness, any more than one had a right to take liberties with her merely because of her beauty.” The jedi princess said it and stood next to one of the screamers as she was teaching the twins the Atrisian art of Benzaiten which was paramount in many cases.

Her head turned towards Iwata and she smiled as she spoke with her voice soft and resonating. "You all look beautiful and I do hope we get to see you when we head out. You have had a long day and should get a chance to relax."

 

[Iwata Kin]

The Princess moved into the crowd of soldiers, greeting them, with no security other than the giant tiger. She didn't need to worry about safety on the wall, surrounded by loyal fighters. She had done much for them, Iwata was well aware, as the Jade Screamers had received updated equipment when the unit was reformed. The men and women of the military had received much, most of it delivered by the hand of Junko Ike . It seemed the beautiful princess Jedi didn't come empty handed that day either, much to the wall-defender's delight.

Junko and her small retinue approached the small group of Screamers lead by the captain. Iwata stood a little taller and ran her fingers through her jet black hair to straighten it. Much to her surprise, the captain lead the Princess right to her, introducing Iwata to the royal visitor. Iwata bowed deeply. The sergeant took the Princess' hand when offered, it was smooth, with a perfectly firm grasp, yet still delicate and dainty. "Your Highness. I am truly humbled." Iwata offered, her voice humble but firm and professional.

Iwata's gaze left the elegant Junko to the twins behind the princess. Iwata allowed a small smile of amusement to touch her lips when she heard one of them comment. It remained when Junko gently admonished the two young women. Iwata wasn't offended by either the young twin's suggestion that warriors were to be burly men. With regal grace the beautiful, petite Princess offered a proverb to the younger women. Iwata found the wisdom in the saying of Junko Ike to well placed. One does not judge a book by its cover.

"Thank you, your Highness. It would be my humble honor to see you again today." Iwata offered with another bow. It was her distinct hope that she would get to meet the Princess, even the young twins again. Taking a step back, The handful of Jade Screamers parted to allow the royal party to pass, making sure to leave the great beast accompanying the princesses plenty of room. Only after the visitors were lost from sight did Iwata turn to those who were in her patrol. "Very well, go hit the 'freshers and get some food." She instructed them.

Iwata made her way to the barracks as well. She stripped off her armor and placed it on the static field stand to be cleaned. Then she pulled the datapad from the gear laid on her bunk and sat to key out her report, as detailed as possible, and sent it to the Lieutenant, who would forward it to the Captain. Then carefully cleaned and stowed her patrol gear. Only then did she too shower and clean herself up.

 

[Junko Ike]

Iwata Kin

Junko bowed to the sergeant and the others as they would be able to head off and she had some meeting to talk about but then well food... there was always a chance for a feast. "I am looking forward to it." She said it with a grin on her face as she took the other two and was heading off with the captain into the main offices. The twins were heading off with some of the personnel that were setting up in the mess hall and bringing casks of wines and other drinks that had been taken from the reserves. There was more then enough as Junko went into the main office to meet with several officers and talk about why she was there aside from delivering plenty for the troops.

She entered the room and was looking at one of the holographic maps of Atrisia and the area around Jar'kai. the captain was looking at her and some of the senior officers as JUnko tapped her earring and the kirano interface activated sharing the information. The maps changed as she spoke. "THank you, with all of the recent changes we have been working to well improve a lot of our roadways and access to the villages." SHe was pointing it out where the wallls of Jar'kai were set up to encompass villages and towns with it and the city was in the center.. the areas outside of the walls were set up to be connected by the roadways.

She spent a few hours talkikng with them while the other two set up in the main mess hall bringing out the food and drinks for the others... giving plenty of time to shower and rest or relax for the screamers as Junko was given one of the tables at the head for the commanding officers and able to look on at all of the others in the mess hall. THe plan was mostly simple and she would explain it when they were eating as it didn't require them to come but they were welcome if they wanted a chance to explore Atrisia and see some of the things she did in her duties.. it wasn't all about sitting around in fine silks and furs.

 

[Iwata Kin]

Iwata had taken her time recovering from the patrol, cleaning up and ensuring her gear and weaponry was in top condition after the ten days on the back of a Longma. She would not be on duty the rest of the day, though every soldier in Longkou were armed and ready as long as they were in the complex or on the wall.

Word spread quickly about the food and wine being set up in the dining hall. The Princess would be addressing any who attended about the goings on in Atrisia and her activities. Of course, Iwata was intrigued and made sure to arrive in plenty of time to get a good seat. The Screamers sat together, and Sergeant Kin sat with the corporals of her squad. They all looked refreshed and revived after the long patrol, all eager to hear the Princess speak.

"Sergeant," Corporal Sun, the petite fellow Screamer who was one of those with Iwata when Junko greeted them, leaned in to address her immediate superior, "...have you ever seen her before? I mean, before today?" The younger Screamer asked.

"Only from afar." Iwata answered, watching as the commanding officers settled at the table near the end of the hall, where Junko would be speaking. "And she is as beautiful up close as she is from afar." She added.

 

[Junko Ike]

Iwata Kin

Junko sat at the table and allowed many of them to file in.. There would be more for those on patrol and not here right now but all of it was fresh axs the foods were brought out. Rice with meats and fish, veggies and skewered meats that could be cooked over braziers as breads and bacon were there. Teas, wines, sake that could be served along with juice and water. They had plenty laid out and JUnko sat there for the moment as the two other princesses looked around and the hall was pretty filled. She stood up and moved with the captain towards one of the raised areas she could speak from and focused the force into her voice to let herself be heard.

"Thank you all and welcome, the last time I was here the wall was being built and operation Syuri when the last remnants of Mythos supporters were driven from the world." She waited for a few to cheer and let it pass, the screamers had been essential much like the blackguard and the dreamguard in that... they were in charge of running them down if they decided to try and run and stop them. There was also the dedication to the city finally being rebuilt and the walls.. they had done a lot of works here and around now that the three great walls were made for Atrisia around the different cities for protection.

"Since then we have worked to repair, rebuild and restore much of what was lost. We have developed technologies that improve the quality of life for the people from farmers in the field to the Sansin who oversee the major cities. Food production, has never been higher, water purification and production, energy production and our manufacturing have increased as the Atrisian system itself continues to be terraformed on the worlds and moons. The main medical and mining stations on Atrisia I (Ming). We have even worked with the outlying villages improving their buildings and production means." She let much of that go in as it was a nice change of pace... they were going for everyone to have the chance.

"Education reforms and academies have also been seen as some of you have graduated in the first generation from many of them with the new curriculum that rounds out and gives you advanced educations compared to many in the galaxy. So we celebrate and continue to explore the world... eat, drink and be happy here cause tomorrow." She said it standing there. "A small expedition is heading out into the mountains, to explore what we believe is the fifth stronghold." She said it and a few would know it... the five strongholds were made by the The Onyx Empress and one was thought lost but it they had found it then it would be a boon to history and the military as they were built to last.

 

[Iwata Kin]

Having the Princess Junko visit was a special occasion, and a feast was laid out for the Longkou personnel who came to hear her speak. The soldiers ate well, but that day the tables were overflowing generously with food and drink. Iwata, tired of patrol rations, dove into the delicacies offered. She drank only lightly of the wine, but noted that it was indeed quality.

The room and festivities quieted as the Princess Junko Ike began to speak. All listened respectfully as she reminded them of the progress made after yoke of Mythos had been cast off and Atrisia was free again. Much had been done, as Junko explained. Iwata realized then how amazing the transformation had been, how Atrisia had become a flourishing planet again, and how the rest of the system was not far behind.

But what really caught Iwata's attention was the mention of the expedition to find the lost fifth stronghold of the Onyx Empress. Having been out in the field for ten days, Iwata had heard nothing of the mission, and it seemed many others didn't either. Iwata was excited by the epic quest, wondering who it was that would be going on the expedition. She felt a pang of jealousy of those going to find the stronghold. What a jewel in the crown of the blossoming Atrisia the lost stronghold would be. Iwata sat in awe, listening to Junko as she spoke, her mind still on the expedition.

 

[Junko Ike]

Iwata Kin

There were murmurs and she could hear some of the soldiers who were interested she could tell. "There will be time for questions and those who want to come can. We have plenty of space for those both interested in history and interested in a chance to get some fresh air as it is with a change for a couple days or weeks." She offered a smile as some seemed more excited at the idea. "Of course that is for tomorrow, for tonight you get to enjoy and celebrate." Junko clapped her hands as from the corners there was more entertainment.. dancers, acrobats descending from the ceiling rafters on silk sashes... the sound of instruments playing for entertainment as Junko moved around ass Lián Róng were brought out for them all with a mixture of meat, soy and sweets.

She didn't need to sing but she went to each of the tables and poured drinks or posed for some of the soldiers who had their Makie Class Droid companion drones around holding drinks. She danced with a few giving greeting and pats on the backs even hugs from many others. Junko moving to the center of the room as the music was playing and cherry blossoms descended down around her and she spun with some coming out of her sleeves and the force being used to guide them around her in a flurry. She allowed the music to guide her as some of the dancers who had joined were off to the sides and like a whirlwind the petals moved around but didn't get into the food or drinks.

The mess hall with the sounds of singing though lit up as the newly installed Hatsune Class Auditory Enhancer for the hall and the base was taking the auditory levels and turning conversations, singing into power for the base and the newly installed equipment that was charging. the revelry was important in those aspects before she was checking in on them. She held her hands out and several of the dancers joined her and started pulling a few of the soldiers out to join them as she stood there and raised her eyebrows with one hand out for anyone who wanted to come and join her.

 

[Iwata Kin]

Iwata nearly leaped out of her seat when it was clear she could join the expedition to search for the lost stronghold. Princess Junko assured them all there was time to be included the next day, but that for the evening, they would enjoy celebration. Suddenly there was food and music and dancing everywhere.

Iwata's eyes followed the elegant princess as she mingled with her troops. They did all truly adore her, including Iwata, who knew Junko Ike went out of her way to make sure they were taken care of and equipped with the best. Atrisia truly was rising from the ashes to be a formidable tiger. The Jade Screamer sergeant indulged in the delicacies and wine, toasting with her peers. It was truly a gala, with lots of production. Cherry blossoms filled the air with music and laughter and at the center of it all was the Princess.

Iwata downed her wine and moved to the center of the room, answering Princess Ike's call to join for all to her. The Screamer twirled and danced nimbly, her strong but slender trained body moving with agility and grace, although with a hint of martial arts evident in her movements. She worked her way closer to Junko, eager to dance close to the regal visitor.

 

[Junko Ike]

Iwata Kin

The dancing and celebration around her was everywhere and Junko could feel the happiness of the people. THen she felt something surge and turned her head for a moment.. nothing bad but there was a determination of someone coming towards her and she thought for a moment to place who it was... the sergeant from earlier who had seemed quite beautiful... hmm. Junko looked at her as she moved and glided between the dancers to get closer and slide in next to her as she spoke low but directed so she could hear her perfectly. "Hello again Sergeant Kin." She said it looking up at her as she offered a hand in front of herself and the other to go to her hip. Junko moved it so if she wanted to the twirl would go with the music and she could let Iwata take the lead in guiding them around the small circle in the center of the room that had been made. " I am happy to see you again." Her smile was light and the joy reached her eyes while JUnko took in a small breath to still the rest of her body and look almost like a piece of art.

 

[Iwata Kin]

Iwata wanted closer, she even left her friends in an effort to dance closer to the beautiful Princess. Her uniform was light and allowed her to move freely as she danced. Soon, she was close enough to Junko Ike to see her fully as she moved so gracefully. Then, the woman's eyes, pitch pools with flecks of color hinted in the light suddenly turned towards Iwata. The sergeant's heart leaped when the majestic royal met her gaze and glided towards her. Iwata's smile grew, shy but very happy.

"Hello, your Highness." Iwata replied, taking in the glorious and stunning Princess. A delicate. golden tan hand was offered, and Iwata took in her her own hand, small but calloused from the weapons of war. Iwata began to move with the Princess, following Junko's lead at first, unsure of the proper manners when it came to dancing with a royal. But the two seemed to move together quite well, and as her comfort grew, Iwata relaxed and reveled in the rare pleasure of dancing with a princess. Her smile beamed.

"The pleasure is all mine, your Highness." Iwata replied, enamored by the beauty of the woman, the exquisite cosmetics she wore rendering her features breathtakingly gorgeous. Junko moved with intentional fluidity, and Iwata found her boldness and began to take the lead. The sergeant dared to twirl the Princess, as an space opened up, allowing the Princess room to dance with the soldier she had invited to share the moment with her. Iwata was in heaven, dancing with a goddess in the most unlikely of places.

 

[Junko Ike]

Iwata Kin

Junko moved with it and was a little surprised with the twirl.. she had to admit that the sergeant was better then she had expected but she had helped develop the things learned in school and their soldiers were more then just soldiers.. most were trained and able to survive in situations be it hostile territory or social situations... no awkward dinner parties as it were when she came back in close and smile her approval. Moving with her and she continued with the music dipping and letting the woman lead mostly but she maintained a directed air so they could manage the room. Force senses were helpful after all for not running into people and went until the music stopped as she looked at her. "Very beautiful in your movements. You are one to keep an eye on I think hopefully you join us." She couldn't deny liking the feeling and ended the dance with a caste kiss.. her lips going to each cheek as she raised herself up on her toes more gracefully. "For a wonderful dance and maybe a drink later. I don't want to keep you from your friends."

 

[Iwata Kin]

It was no surprise that the Princess was an excellent dancer. Iwata had learned at Academy the traditional Atrisian dances, as well as some popular ones. A soldier's education was well rounded, as was fitting the rich culture of the Atrisian people. It was paying off for Iwata as she had the profound privilege to dance with Junko Ike herself. Iwata was sure she blushed at the Princess's compliments, her smile restrained from beaming wide across her face. It was divine, dancing with the beautiful Junko.

The dance, unfortunately, ended. But the most wonderful part was yet to come. The Princess pressed to light kisses to each of Iwata's cheeks. She tried to giggle like a school girl. To be kissed by a princess was beyond anything she ever expected. "Thank you, your Highness." Iwata managed to say with a big smile. "It would be my honor." She added at the prospect of maybe sharing a drink with Junko as well. In the meantime, she saw that her moment with the Princess was over, and with a bow, she returned to her Screamer peers, who were nearly as giddy as she to have seen their own sergeant dance with Junko Ike herself. The continued to celebrate, dancing with each other, eating and drinking and toasting Atrisia, the Emperor and Empress, the Princess and the returning glory of the Royal Military.

 

[Junko Ike]

Iwata Kin

Junko looked at her go and well it was rather fun and exciting she had to admit but she couldn't pick out and just have one or two of them with her all night on the first night... there was some sense of decorum needed. She though went back to her table where the others were and sat down after all of the dancing and excitement of that moment at least and took a drink of the tea. "Well that was certainly interesting... must be fun to go everywhere and all eyes go towards you." The twins were speaking but not jealous and JUnko spoke sitting there with a smile as her eyes slid over towards the table with Iwata. "Perhaps but there is always a chance to meet the best people. Tomorrow we'll meet some more and the two of you can practice with them in the training yard if you want. Show them you don't just sit in palaces all day." She gave the twins a grin though as they seemed to be thinking about it andthe one spoke. "Maybe... if we are not hung over this celebration well there are a few who look like they want to approach us but are scared to.. a few more cups and they might be bold enough to try."

 

[Iwata Kin]

Iwata returned to the table where many of her fellow Jade Screamers were enjoying the delicacies. They leaned close, eager to hear what it was like to dance with the Princess. Iwata only grinned and muttered around a mouthful of sweets. "Absolutely amazing!"

While she watched the acrobats performing on the long silks hung from the ceiling, Her gaze returned to the head table where Junko Ike had returned. She was speaking with the Twins. They were young and pretty, with skin like porcelain and hair like midnight. Corporal Sun slid closer to the sergeant. "You seemed to make an impression on the Princess... why don't you introduce yourselves to the other princesses?" The petite soldier encouraged. "Perhaps they will dance with us." Sun added, elbowing Iwata in the ribs and grinning.

"You daring me, corporal?" Iwata replied with a wry grin.

"Do it!" Sun replied, an excited look on her face.

Iwata downed her cup of wine and stood, straightening her uniform. She approached the head table and stood before Shōda and Shōwa. "Your Highnesses, It is an honor to have you with us. I resided on Shri-Tal for several years when many of us Jade Screamers took refuge on your home world during the dark times here on Atrisia. Your beauty reflects the beauty of Shri-Tal's mountains and oceans." Iwata offered.

 

[Junko Ike]

Iwata Kin

Junko looked up when they were approached and the twins seemed interested as they sat there... eyes taking in the sergeant who approached but also others in the room as they seemed to act much more demure then usual... Junko didn't need to sigh as they usually played the shy wallflower but she knew they liked going out and being among the people. "Why thank you." THeir voices came in unison but they were more then happy for the compliment as they turned to Junko. "She does have a way with words." THe one said and nodded her approval before looking back. "Is there anything we could do for you?"

 

[Iwata Kin]

Iwata had been rather impulsive to approach the Shri'Tal princesses, urged on by her comrade, and suddenly found herself before them. They were youthful beauties, and nearly as elegant as Junko Ike , if not as highly adorned. The lowly soldier had offered what she hoped had been a courteous compliment, and both of the young women seemed to approve. But when she was asked if they could do anything for her, Iwata was caught off guard.

"I am just a loyal soldier of the Emperor and Empress..." Iwata continued with a modest smile. She glanced back at Sun, who was watching along with the other Jade Screamers sitting at the table. They all grinned at her with anticipation. "Would you care to dance with us?" Iwata said, nervous that she had overstepped her bounds. But the attention afforded her by the royal Princess had emboldened the sergeant to make such a request. Her eyes dared to dart to the Princess Ike, to see if she was aware of the conversation and to see if she approved of the low-ranked soldier's request.

 

[Junko Ike]

Iwata Kin

Junko looked at the sergeant and then at the table where she had been and the others who were there wanting to dance with them. A smile on her face as sheheld one hand up for the captain who seemed ready to say something but Xifang rising up and shaking his body stopped that. Hard to object when a massive tiger is standing next to you.... granted she wouldn't hurt someone without command but no one seemed to know that at first. Instead she was there and Junko held a hand with some of the food for her as she took it from her hand. The twins looking up and over as the one spoke. "But I wouldn't want to make JUnko jealous that I am dancing with her dance partner... perhaps one of your friends if he comes over here." Her sister nodded and motioned with her hand for them to come and join them quickly quickly. "We'll dance with the one who knows our name." With their identical looks and similar mannerisms they could make it a little difficult but Shōda on the left and Shōwa on the right.