The Court at Constantinople

[Cybelos [ERE]]

Reigning Monarchs: Ióannés (John) I Philanthropenos & Alexandra Philanthropena

For during the reign of Deucalion Phtiotis was the country in which the Hellenes dwelt, but under Dorus (Progenitor of the Dorians), the son of Hellen (Progenitor of the Hellenes), they moved to the tract at the base of Ossa and Olympus, which is called Hisitaeotis, forced to retire from that region by the Cadmeians, and they settled under the name of Macednoi (Macedonians) in the chain of Pindus. Hence they once more moved and came to Dryopis and from Dryopis having entered the Peloponnese they became known as Lacedaemonians.
Herodotus' Histories, Book III, Vol. II(440 B.C.)

Acropolis and the Odeon, Athens

St. Mark Preaching in Alexandria (Gentile Bellini)

Constantine's Empire currently stretches her arms from the lands of Red Sea to the mouth of the Danube, and to the Venetian canals, though, the impact of the first great civilization can be felt throughout Europe, Africa, and the Levant.

The Greeks, as of the 11th century, find themselves as merchants and sailors, frequently; an affinity for the seas nurtured from a young age, and a landscape that demands it has stoked the fires for maritime affairs. In many major ports of Europe and Africa you will find a Greek doing his work, often with an air of superiority about him.

The Greco-Roman lands are known to the common man as The Roman Empire, Constantine's Empire, the Hellenic Empire, or the Empire of Greeks and Romans.

Her Emperor is John, Her Empress is Alexandra of the noble house Philanthropenos
Her Co-Emperor is Philip

John and Alexandra reside over the Court at Constantinople, governing as Emperor and Empress.
Alexander, Father of the Emperor, has been appointed Caesar, assisting with the governing of the Empire.

Characters: (Ages as of 1026)

Emperor: John (40)
Empress: Alexandra (39)
Doux of Paristrion, Caesar, Heir to the Throne: Philip (20)
Prince: Alexander (18)
Princess: Alexandra (18)
Caesar, Father of the Emperor: Alexander (65)

Akolouthos (Captain of the Guard): Cisseus (56)
Protasekretis (First Secretary): Kastor (53)
Megas Logothetes (Head of Logothetes): Mentor (51)
Ecclesiarch (Head of the Church): Eustakhios (75)
Spymaster: Ioannes (49)
Kouropalates (Castellan): Philotheos (61)
Eparch of Constantinople, Prefect: Makarios (54)

Megas Domestikos (Commander of the Army): Kleisthenes (60)
Megas Doux (Head of the Navy): Nikandros (56)

[Connaught-Munster Eire]

Irish Lord Brian II, Prince of Connaught arrives in Dyrrhachium in northern Greece. They are ready to achieve positive diplomatic relations.

[Cybelos [ERE]]

"Ah, I had been told that we had recieved guests." Duke Kapaneus began, walking down the docks with his wife, the Duchess, Ianthe. Introducing himself once he reached the prince.

"Truly, Your Highness, we only ever recieve diplomatic guests in Dyrrhachion from those within our own Kingdom. Though, you have made a long trip, I've been told. It would be boorish of me to turn you away towards Athens or Alexandria so soon. You may stay with us for as long as you need, we can also grant you transport to Athens, Alexandria, or Constantinople by means of ship or horse if you wish. You may stay in the city's castle for now if you would like."

[Connaught-Munster Eire]

Brian II says, "Aye, I am ready to go to Athens."
 Brian II is already ready to travel.

 "We leave in the morning."

 Brian looks in the fog. He tugs at his dark green cloak. The dark sky was light from the reflection of light through the low clouds. He stroked his short black beard. Then he noticed a slight drizzle was starting.

 "Well lad, I heard it does not often fog up and rain like this often here."

 He took a puff from his pipe (old world tobacco of course) and the rain started to pick up. It is now changed to a strong paced rain. He pulled the hood over his head and tried to cover the pipe from the rain.

 "Shall we get inside?"

 He followed him to the door of a building and he sat down at a table near a window and watched the rain over the trees. He took up some food and drink; a glass of red wine and a lamb dish. He watched the rain pick up more and begin to thunder.

 Then he removed his things from a wet pack onto the table. With it

[Cybelos [ERE]]

Knuckles rapped at the Prince's door.

At the door stood a servant "We've a horse ready for you, my Lord. Grounds still a bit wet, but it's dry in the south I've been told. I'll let you gather your things, I'll meet you downstairs."

The horses waited on the road near the castle where Prince Brian made his stay. Dark chesnut and onyx horses wait for the Prince and his men, Greek guards were already saddled up and ready to ride for the capital.

The servant who roused the Prince spoke up: "We've a carriage ready if you'd prefer it over the saddle. Shouldn't be much in the way of trouble on the roads, bit rocky in some parts though."

[Connaught-Munster Eire]

"Laddie, I am used to the saddle. I will take a ride through the beautiful land of Greece."

He saddled up in the horse and was ready.

[Cybelos [ERE]]

The group set off, a ship having been sent earlier to deliver multiple messages including one telling of the prince's arrival.

The group stuck to the coastline mostly, venturing further inland to cut across impossible stretches of hills and mountains, homes and churches tucked away, living fairly quietly. The guides would point out ancient structures, simple but striking in design. They told the prince of the Greek peoples living fairly harmoniously with nature. The people of the villages would welcome the group to share with them what they had, exemplifying the idea of Xenia which was ingrained in nearly everyone.

The city of Athens, a few years ago, lay stagnant, a victim to raids, now experiencing a golden era. Soaps and dyes were being produced here and spread through the Mediterranean. Fortifications were growing on the outskirts of the town, cross-tipped domes of churches and converted ancient temples pierced the skyline of the city. The acropolis stood proudly over the city, this is where King Alexander took up residence, awaiting the Prince's arrival for the next morning, the Prince was given residence in the neighborhood of Alikokou, the Acropolis imposing itself on the affluent district.

Spoiler:

[Connaught-Munster Eire]

He slunk down in to the cozy rooms they had provided.

"Lad, this land reminds me of Irelnd. The rustic countryside and vast nature. The farms, churches, cottages, and countryside are much like home."

He changed from his outfit of a dark green cloak and hood over a tabard and sturdy boots and exchanged them for a linen short red robe and silver broached light green cloak. He exchanged his hood for a small silver crown. He wore sandals instead of boots because of the climate.

He placed these clothes on the wall for the morning when he would meet the king.

[Cybelos [ERE]]

Another servant would rouse the prince, letting him know to climb the steps up to King Alexander, where he would be seeing the Prince next.

Alexander finished his business with his ministers, sending them off, requesting a servant to bring the Prince in. Alexander wore a flowing white robes with a dark green sash around his shoulder, a world away from the bold garb and extravagant patterns worn in Constantinople. He had decided to don a laurel, more austere, but more dignified, he thought.

[Connaught-Munster Eire]

"It is an honor, sire."

Brian II bowed in respect to King Alexander.

"It is my pleasure indeed to meet you, sire."

He removed his pipe from his mouth and nodded his head

Brian II walked up to the king.

[Cybelos [ERE]]

Alexander seemed to be distracted for a moment before adjusting his posture and addressing the Prince.
"Hm.. Forgive me. Yes, a pleasure to meet you as well, Your Highness."
"You had some trouble in the waters near Calabria I've heard? This does me no good to hear, firstly, a Norman army sailing into Italy and now corsairs?
This would not have happened if the Greeks still ruled those lands, I assure you. I apologize for the inconvenient beginning to our two countries relationship."

"Ah, but, onto more sanguine matters, your visit to these lands.

I am, of course pleased to have you here. But, your travel was long, and as I've heard, quite burdensome.
Our nations are separated by a substantial distance. I am curious of the purpose of this visit, Your Highness. If you'd sate my inquisitive nature?"

[Connaught-Munster Eire]

"Well m'lord," Brian II said. "I was sent by my father to establish relations, but the question is, why?"

Brian stood and watched.

"The corsairs are getting bold. They have been seen near Cork. They have gone from their base in Tunis all the way to my home in Éire. Also, we have met a mysterious approach from swedes near the Capitol of Connaught, in Burke. They were mercenaries. Also, I was sent to the Holy-Lands, but I heard the growing danger."

He paced before looking straight at the king.

"Lad, I have heard of the growing trouble in the east Mediterranean and my father was interested. Finally, I have been sent as a representative of Éire in Greece, and you know, if trouble, send ehm, military support to my lord Alexander..."

With this Brian put the pipe to his mouth and took a puff.

[Cybelos [ERE]]

One thing I can boast of is this Kingdom's naval supremacy, our sovereignty depends on it. I am to protect the Greek peoples above all else.
These pirates didn't give chase when you entered our waters did they? I would think not, less they be incinerated.

H'm, I do not know why you've heard of trouble in the east of the Mediterranean, the Catholics are the only ones facing too much trouble from the corsairs.
I could end these troubles for them, but they have turned from God, including paganic rituals in their worship in order to appease conquered peoples.
I thank you for the offer of military support, but I would not remove the men of Hibernia from their families in order to fight so far from their homes in defense of mine.
We could raise over 300 ships ourselves at any time if we wished to, nearly 500 with Bithynian support.

I, of course, welcome you as a representative, you will find a home in Athens for as long as you need, Your Highness.

[Connaught-Munster Eire]

You are too kind, my leige! I am asking if we could create a military coalition in defense of the Pirates. There are many here in Ireland because us in west Ireland are mostly pagan, but the government is highly Catholic. We have tried to concert the pagans, but it is not successful.

When Saint Patrick banished the "snakes" who are the followers of Cróm Cruach, the Irish God of evil, sacrifice, and death, many Irish stayed to support the pagans. Including the worshippers of Cróm.

We can create a military coalition in defense our people against the corsairs. A military alliance.

[Cybelos [ERE]]

"Mm, right. Well, as I said they are no trouble to me or the Empire.

What would interest me would be healthy trade between our two nations, where we could keep the trade routes free of brigands.
More secure trade should allow for the Christians to grow their power and for you to exert more control over the pagans.
Conversion, then, should take little more than a look at the prosperity they would be set to gain."

[Aegyptus]

A group of horsemen and knights slowly began to appear in the horizon, their movement causing a wave of dust following closely behind. After being invaded by foreigners numerous times, Aegyptus had adapted to more modern weaponry, transport and armor, although they kept most of their tradition. At the center of this entourage was Pharaoh of Aegyptus, Ruler-Priest Amyrtaeus I. He had come to visit his daughter, her husband and the newborn child in the Greek Court of Alexandria to offer his blessings.

[Cybelos [ERE]]

A guard rode to the outskirts of the city to lead the Egyptian procession through the city.

Leandros stood outside the royal palace, sending a guard off to fetch Ahmes and their newborn son.

"Your Majesty, an honor to see you. Ptolemy himself would be quite envious of what you've accomplished in these lands"
Leandros bowed lightly, seeming to have grown more accustomed to the royal way of conducting oneself.

Ahmes stepped outside into the hot Egyptian sun, the newborn Miltiades in her arms.

"Ah, my lovely Cleopatra. Here he is, Your Majesty."
Leandros took Philip from Ahmes and offered him to Amyrtaeus to hold.
"You saw that apparition in the sky a time ago, I take it? Well, that marked the birth of our prince here."  OOC

[Aegyptus]

The hierarch stopped and descended from his horse, accompanied by one guard.

He nodded towards Leandros with a warm smile, barely containing his excitement. He couldn't wait to see his grandson.

"An honor to meet you as well, Prince Leandros. I see Greek Africa thrives under your rule. You are, without a doubt, born to lead your civilization to greatness."
He bowed back naturally, having grown used to this over the years as well.

His smile practically extended from ear to ear upon seeing his daughter with the child.

After greeting her, he carefully took Miltiades and rocked him in his arms, to and fro. "Yes, I did. It was magnificent. Surely, it is a good omen. I can only hope Miltiades will have a wonderful life and prosper."

[Cybelos [ERE]]

"Of course, Your Majesty." Leandros put his arm around Ahmes and continued: "I will see to it that your daughter and your grandchildren will never want for anything."

"Let us move inside, out of this sun." Leandros motioned for the servants to take Amyrtaeus' things to his quarters.

"You will have to take in the sights while you are here. The tomb of Alexander himself, the city's namesake. Or the tomb of Saint Mark, just recently fully recovered from Venice.
Then there's the Great Lighthouse, the pillar of Pompey, the amphitheatre..

Or, you're welcome to relax here in the palace for as long as you wish.

Leandros lead Ahmes and Amyrtaeus out onto a balcony overlooking the eastern harbor.

"I have business to attend to unfortunately, Your Highness. I shall let you and Ahmes catch up. I will see all of your later tonight, a proper feast is in order I believe."
Leandros kissed Ahmes and kissed Miltiades' head, he then left the two Egyptians to discuss amongst themselves.

[Orberstine]

Bengt Solberg, Lord of Solberg arrives in Venice, on orders to improve diplomatic relations between our two great kingdoms.

[Cybelos [ERE]]

Venetía

Venetía was easily one of the most bustling ports in Greek lands, a foothold into western Europe, trade flourished here. The architecture was a combination of Italian and Greek. This area was more cosmopolitan than mainland Greece or Anatolia, and the port saw visitors from all across the globe and of varying viewpoints because of it.

The Guard would lead the Lord of Solberg to the Duke's Palace, a great cathedral being built across the way from it.

Duke Pyrrhus of Venetía

Duke Pyrrhus sat at his throne, two advisors from Athens stood over him to be sure his business served his King Alexander's best interests. The Duke was concluding his business with a local Lord, the Athenian advisors remarked when appropriate, and had been keeping records with wonderful detail of everything that was said.

"You may approach the Duke next." a servant told Bengt.

[Cybelos [ERE]]

Alexandria

A grand feast was underway, prepared when the Pharaoh's arrival was first planned. The Dukes and Duchesses from Aegyptus [1], Erythra, Lesser Sinai, and Greater Sinai were all in attendance, along with minor Lords and Ladies from throughout the African realms.

Leandros was never one for such excess, but, he wished to impress his father-in-law and show himself an able provider. Leandros had picked up some things from his time in Athens and his trips to Constantinople. Finery decorated the great hall of the palace. Banners from throughout Hellas and Aegyptus were displayed proudly on the walls and from the ceiling. Meats, cheeses, fruits, spices, sweets, wines, ales, and everything the most gluttonous Lord could dream of were brought in.

"I am not usually one for such celebration." Leandros began, and the room quieted. "But, the unification and friendship between our two Kingdoms deserves recognition! May God bless both of our realms for ages to come!" The room cheered and quieted again into pleasant murmuring between the guests.

Leandros sat at the main table with Ahmes and Amyrtaeus, many Lords and Dukes would try their best to find any excuse to introduce themselves to the Pharaoh .

1:

[Orberstine]

Venetía

Venetía was easily one of the most bustling ports in Greek lands, a foothold into western Europe, trade flourished here. The architecture was a combination of Italian and Greek. This area was more cosmopolitan than mainland Greece or Anatolia, and the port saw visitors from all across the globe and of varying viewpoints because of it.

The Guard would lead the Lord of Solberg to the Duke's Palace, a great cathedral being built across the way from it.

Duke Pyrrhus of Venetía

Duke Pyrrhus sat at his throne, two advisors from Athens stood over him to be sure his business served his King Alexander's best interests. The Duke was concluding his business with a local Lord, the Athenian advisors remarked when appropriate, and had been keeping records with wonderful detail of everything that was said.

"You may approach the Duke next." a servant told Bengt.

Lord Bengt stepped forward, gave a small bow, and beconded forward his aid. The aid followed suit and revealed a small scroll that the Lord took, opened, and read as follows:

"On behalf of the faithful and prosperous lands of Orberstine, as ordained and granted from God, I, Jörg IV, send forth Lord Solberg of Solberg to thee, the prosperous and blessed nation of Cybelos, to promote the affairs of Orberstine and her peoples. May he greet you with the highest respect so deserved and truly represent the ideal Low Saxon lord.

Here, on this day granted to us by God, may the most prestigious Greek Court of Venetía accept our diplomat and his company in order to further positive diplomatic relations between our two blessed nations, and, in accordance to His will,  may conflict never arise in our shared courts."

The Lord returned the scroll and waved the aid away.

"As my lord orders, I follow. I am the diplomat from Orberstine, here to represent Orberstine and all her affairs."

[Cybelos [ERE]]

Venetía

"I welcome you, Lord Solberg." Pyrrhus began. An Athenian advisor would have his ear quickly.

"I can provide lodging for you and your men for as long as you would need or I can charter a ship for you to head for Arba and then you could take horses to Athens. The trip should only take two weeks."

"If you're more comfortable here, closer to home, I understand. Just know that I can only sign off on agreements that effect the Venetían lands."

"Any full pacts between nations can be written here, but they will be sent to Athens for confirmation." An advisor chimed in.

"If there was nothing else I can have my servants show you to your quarters." Pyrrhus added.

[Orberstine]

Venetía

"I welcome you, Lord Solberg." Pyrrhus began. An Athenian advisor would have his ear quickly.

"I can provide lodging for you and your men for as long as you would need or I can charter a ship for you to head for Arba and then you could take horses to Athens. The trip should only take two weeks."

"If you're more comfortable here, closer to home, I understand. Just know that I can only sign off on agreements that effect the Venetían lands."

"Any full pacts between nations can be written here, but they will be sent to Athens for confirmation." An advisor chimed in.

"If there was nothing else I can have my servants show you to your quarters." Pyrrhus added.

"While my lord was.. vague in his orders" began the hesitant diplomat, "I do believe he wishes to pursue a trade agreement between our two lands, although there is a fair distance between our two lands. If I burden thee not, then I request to stay here in your fair city to pursue any agreements that offer any benefits to you. If you have none to recommend, then I will leave your lands at first notice and be on my way to Athens itself."

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