askgeraudduroc

[askgeraudduroc]

Oh my! That quite sounds terrible, Your Majesty!

As if from thin air, Duroc would suddenly have in his hands a cup of tea, just like Napoleon always liked. He will pass it to him.

@askgeraudduroc is back Your Majesty :3

Oh, good, I am in dire need of his services.

[askgeraudduroc]

hi Duroc!!! Youre one of those people where I’m not afraid to ask for a hug bc I think you’d at least consider it and not glare at me. You’re probably very huggable, 95% hugability, 10/10 would recommend. And your hair looks floofy so it would and to the padding texture when hugging.

Oh! Well, I am glad I am part of your consideration for hugs, dear anonyme...!

I wouldn't mind one right now...

[askgeraudduroc]

Hey , are you okay?

Seems kinda dead here

After opening the first letter, Duroc continued to find more. Some, due to their wear, he had to throw away without leaving a reply.

But this letter was of the ones that were in good condition.

Oh, dear Anonymous, please accept my deepest apologies, and I am truly grateful for your kind concern.

If I'm being honest, I haven't… Been feeling quite myself lately, and the time just seemed to slip away... My attention was solely on my daughters' well-being... and in doing so, I neglected other responsibilities.

But please don't worry, we are all quite alright now.

[askgeraudduroc]

Duroc had gone a long time without running into anyone else… Much less if that someone turned out to be one of the versions of Napoleon.

Taking a deep breath, he would do a gentle bow, while trying his best smile as always.

Hello there, Your Majesty…!

I don't think I've interacted with you before in this Afterlife… So, I'm glad to meet you again!

How may I help you?

@askgeraudduroc is back Your Majesty :3

Oh, good, I am in dire need of his services.

[askgeraudduroc]

It had been a while.

That's what Duroc kept repeating over and over in his mind, but at least... They were kind words this time.

It was perhaps the case that he allowed the letters to accumulate, his focus on his two daughters, as it should have been all along. Still, this invitation had somehow drawn his attention, and he had a feeling that perhaps his Helena might enjoy a little change of scenery.

He hadn't spoken to anyone in a while.

And now, he stood there, his beloved daughter's hand in his, somewhat too excited about going her way… While in his other hand, the egg sat quietly in its stroller.

The uniform... he had truly thought those days were behind him. Yet, here it was, back in the scarlet and silver white. He has also forgotten the effort involved in dressing the part... an energy he now found somewhat drowned.

But in the end, what mattered now was that he was here,

After such a while.

The General's Birthday : May 10

⁘•————————⁘•⁘————————•⁘

Photo by Reagan Ross is royalty-free. Extra edits by me.

⁘•————————⁘•⁘————————•⁘

The description on the invitation is rather simple and written on the General's stationery:

Celebrations start during the day and end when we can take no more. Plenty of refreshments and food provided. If you consider yourself able to ride a horse, bring a lively one. Those who retain command of cavalry regiments are invited to bring their best riders and sharpshooters.

When each participant arrives, a guide takes them through the mist to keep them from getting lost. On the other side, the usual clearing in the forest that houses Lasalle's camp has shifted into a large open field that is host to tables of food, barrels of different wines that never seem to run dry, and a course made up of ditches, fences and mounds of earth that would in modern times be attributed to equestrian cross-country.

The usually serious Captain Fontaine has allowed himself to be convinced to have a go at this course, though he is rather cautious and slow about it. Some hussars cheer and egg him on from the sidelines and laugh, tankards in hand.

Everyone present from Lasalle's brigade, including the man himself, is dressed up in their best uniforms, as of course hussars need little excuse to feel fancy. The horses are immaculately groomed to match, and they probably got an extra treat to eat too.

Lastly there is the shooting ground, where the shooting competition is overseen by Colonel Schwarz, who also happens to be egging on some men from his regiment. Regimental pride lives on, even after death.

Where is the General himself in all of this? For the time being, he can be found near the wine, of course.

⁘•————————⁘•⁘————————•⁘

This is an open event and will run until we can take no more either. Anyone is welcome to attend, and the following pings are not exhaustive because I just don't remember everyone's tags honestly. If your character knew/likes Lasalle, they can come.

@le-dieu-mars • @levieuxchevalier • @lepremiercoquillard • @le-brave-des-braves • @chicksncash • @bayard-de-la-garde • @armagnac-army • @le-bayard-polonaise • @askgeraudduroc • @general-junot [please wear clothes ty] • anyone else who wants to come

Please note that on the actual 10th in UK time I will take longer to reply as I will be out marshalling a parade. That's why I'm posting it a day early and pretending it's the 10th already.

[askgeraudduroc]

A laugh would well up inside Hummingbird gentleman, as he shook his head.

I truly appreciate your enthusiasm, young Nightingale, but I'm quite certain that any expert would quickly recognize my terrible musical talent. I've already tried with excellent teachers, only to receive the same verdict from each one.

But don't worry, it's not something that discourages me too much. As long as I can simply admire from a distance, it's enough for me.

And now, given your family's musical background, a lot of things make sense now...

Another chuckle escaped his lips, as a smile spread across his face. In a way, it was noticeable that the gentleman's face was unaccustomed to such an relaxed expression.

Then, with a quick side-eye to the surroundings, he would pause before speaking.

Please forgive my curiosity, as it's always been a strong trait of mine; but, could the gentleman who accompanied you today possibly be your dear brother that you mentioned?

@askgeraudduroc (Napoleon) & @the-little-miss-poet

—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—

—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—

Félicitations ! The stars of the evening have chosen you as dance and conversational partners for the waltz and/or quadrille. This thread is for you two to at least talk to each other and either get along or don't get along in an entertaining way.

The entrance to the ball may be found here, with more information and activities to partake in.

We would suggest describing your mask and greeting as a good starting point. Bonne chance !

—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—

Here are some Out Of Character things to keep in mind:

You're both wearing masks, and might not recognise each other even if you know each other. Maybe if you want to be able to recognise your partner, ask OOCly first if you can.

For the specific dance partner threads, only post if you're a participant.

There's no word count requirement for roleplay posts. We encourage shorter, conversational posts to promote interaction, but we won't police writing styles.

Real life takes priority, so please be understanding if dance partners don't respond quickly. We hope for a conversation to develop within 2-4 weeks.

If your dance partner is unresponsive and you're eager to participate, use the general mingle threads. You might find a new partner or even ask a host or staff member to dance.

Remember, this is an in-character high-class event with etiquette expectations. While your character can be rude, avoid excessive disruptions. The focus should be on conversation and relationships.

Remember that in-character actions don't reflect out-of-character feelings. If a character is rude IC, don't take it personally OOC. If you do have any concerns, the messages will be open on this blog.

—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—

We wish you a most pleasant encounter, and may fortune smile upon you and joy guide your steps!

[askgeraudduroc]

Oh! So you are searching for a loved one! All the more reason to delve into this quest. One should never keep them waiting...

The young man smiled, perhaps at the guilty hypocrisy he felt. But it wasn't time to be dwelling on his shameful acts. The gentleman before him needed urgent help.

So, displaying his best manners, he bowed politely at his introduction.

Feel free to call me Monsieur Mantis; as I am your humble servant for this evening.

And please, no apologies. Your disorientation is quite understandable. Even I am uncertain of the circumstances that brought me here.

Then, the young Mantis would quickly glance around the place, observing the multiple interactions between all the masqueraders. Monsieur Cygne would now be able to see as if something were hidden under his hat, blending in with his curls... Could they be leaves...?

But before having the chance to inspect it further, the bug gentleman slowly look back, somewhat distracted.

If you would permit me to ask, might your wife be in this very same place? Perhaps, if she is in a costume, it might be tricky to find her, but it's certainly not impossible.

@beausoleil-de-bellune (???) & @askgeraudduroc

—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—

—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—

Félicitations ! The stars of the evening have chosen you as dance and conversational partners for the waltz and/or quadrille. This thread is for you two to at least talk to each other and either get along or don't get along in an entertaining way.

The entrance to the ball may be found here, with more information and activities to partake in.

We would suggest describing your mask and greeting as a good starting point. Bonne chance !

—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—

Here are some Out Of Character things to keep in mind:

You're both wearing masks, and might not recognise each other even if you know each other. Maybe if you want to be able to recognise your partner, ask OOCly first if you can.

For the specific dance partner threads, only post if you're a participant.

There's no word count requirement for roleplay posts. We encourage shorter, conversational posts to promote interaction, but we won't police writing styles.

Real life takes priority, so please be understanding if dance partners don't respond quickly. We hope for a conversation to develop within 2-4 weeks.

If your dance partner is unresponsive and you're eager to participate, use the general mingle threads. You might find a new partner or even ask a host or staff member to dance.

Remember, this is an in-character high-class event with etiquette expectations. While your character can be rude, avoid excessive disruptions. The focus should be on conversation and relationships.

Remember that in-character actions don't reflect out-of-character feelings. If a character is rude IC, don't take it personally OOC. If you do have any concerns, the messages will be open on this blog.

—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—

We wish you a most pleasant encounter, and may fortune smile upon you and joy guide your steps!

[askgeraudduroc]

Joyeux Anniversarie!

*A giant birthday cake manifests in front of him. Ney tried his best to be kind, but still, there is a large inscription on the icing: “Trusting everyone is stupid.”*

Duroc stares blankly at the cake for a while. There wasn't anything that he already didn't knew. That he already...

And yet, he couldn't show enough gratitude.

Ney was a very good man. Ney gaved him a wonderful house, and now a delicious looking cake. Even when Ney recognized how terrible he was... Ney was still so kind to him.

He will make sure to at least write him a thank you letter afterwards.

But first, he would give a piece to his daughter.

[askgeraudduroc]

Is this you rn

...Perhaps.

But I have no time to allow myself to be pathetic.

Not infront of Helene.

[askgeraudduroc]

Happy birthday!

- @thehussargeneral

P.S. Apparently there's a pig breed that bears your name now?

Oh...!

Hello there, general Lasalle! Thanks you very much!!

I really want to apologise for lacking the courtesy of properly greeting you, for your arrival at this afterlife.

Yet I really, really apreciate that you remembered such a thing.

I acknowledge, and regret the fact that we have not been able to interact in our living life, but I hope we can do so soon!

I would like to welcome you with a good cup of tea, and perhaps an sweet of your liking.

And well... I think I have been called a pig once. I now know why!

[askgeraudduroc]

Huh.

Today Is my Birthday, I guess...

It doesn't really matter.

[askgeraudduroc]

I really appreciate your words.

I do not intend to disappoint you, young Nightingale.

A small smile formed on his lips as he guided her in the dance. Despite his words, his experience in this was evident, allowing the young lady to rely on him without worries.

Now, after a while, the man couldn't help but look up in the direction where the music was coming from.

Hmm. I wonder to who said melody belongs. I can't recognize it...

I've always loved music, even though everyone around me always pointed out my lack of talent.

Through the man's mask, she caught a glimpse of his grayish eyes, as clouded and stormy as a rainy day, but now softened and gentle, as he laid his sight on her.

What about yourself, young Nightingale? Would you perhaps have a better story with music?

@askgeraudduroc (Napoleon) & @the-little-miss-poet

—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—

—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—

Félicitations ! The stars of the evening have chosen you as dance and conversational partners for the waltz and/or quadrille. This thread is for you two to at least talk to each other and either get along or don't get along in an entertaining way.

The entrance to the ball may be found here, with more information and activities to partake in.

We would suggest describing your mask and greeting as a good starting point. Bonne chance !

—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—

Here are some Out Of Character things to keep in mind:

You're both wearing masks, and might not recognise each other even if you know each other. Maybe if you want to be able to recognise your partner, ask OOCly first if you can.

For the specific dance partner threads, only post if you're a participant.

There's no word count requirement for roleplay posts. We encourage shorter, conversational posts to promote interaction, but we won't police writing styles.

Real life takes priority, so please be understanding if dance partners don't respond quickly. We hope for a conversation to develop within 2-4 weeks.

If your dance partner is unresponsive and you're eager to participate, use the general mingle threads. You might find a new partner or even ask a host or staff member to dance.

Remember, this is an in-character high-class event with etiquette expectations. While your character can be rude, avoid excessive disruptions. The focus should be on conversation and relationships.

Remember that in-character actions don't reflect out-of-character feelings. If a character is rude IC, don't take it personally OOC. If you do have any concerns, the messages will be open on this blog.

—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—

We wish you a most pleasant encounter, and may fortune smile upon you and joy guide your steps!

[askgeraudduroc]

Truth to be told, he shouldn't be here.

He should be with his daughter, who is slowly growing up without him.

However, he couldn't say no either. Other people took the bother of inviting him How could he say no? He's never done it before. He's too weak for that.

So, here he was, wearing a white top hat with a pastel pink ribbon, and a mask that, while not exactly a flower, tried to convey the delicacy that a certain creature shared with one.

The rest of his outfit was no different; he wore a whitish coat with tiny but delicate embroidered details that slowly turned into a pink gradient around his sleeves and tail. His pants would share the same detail, only more noticeable, and his dancing shoes would be of a more reddish tint.

Everything was a wonderful masquerade. Or at least, that's how Duroc wanted it to be.

But once again, he found someone who seemed to need help. And of course, he wouldn't hesitate to give it. Because, despite everything... It's the only thing he can do well.

Good Evening, monsieur. You currenly are finding yourself in a masquerade.

Would you... Perhaps be in search of your partner?

His voice, while less... Lively than usual, was still gentle.

((I'm SO sorry for taking so long! Here I made a small picture of Duroc's mask, as he is an orchid mantis!))

@beausoleil-de-bellune (???) & @askgeraudduroc

—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—

—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—

Félicitations ! The stars of the evening have chosen you as dance and conversational partners for the waltz and/or quadrille. This thread is for you two to at least talk to each other and either get along or don't get along in an entertaining way.

The entrance to the ball may be found here, with more information and activities to partake in.

We would suggest describing your mask and greeting as a good starting point. Bonne chance !

—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—

Here are some Out Of Character things to keep in mind:

You're both wearing masks, and might not recognise each other even if you know each other. Maybe if you want to be able to recognise your partner, ask OOCly first if you can.

For the specific dance partner threads, only post if you're a participant.

There's no word count requirement for roleplay posts. We encourage shorter, conversational posts to promote interaction, but we won't police writing styles.

Real life takes priority, so please be understanding if dance partners don't respond quickly. We hope for a conversation to develop within 2-4 weeks.

If your dance partner is unresponsive and you're eager to participate, use the general mingle threads. You might find a new partner or even ask a host or staff member to dance.

Remember, this is an in-character high-class event with etiquette expectations. While your character can be rude, avoid excessive disruptions. The focus should be on conversation and relationships.

Remember that in-character actions don't reflect out-of-character feelings. If a character is rude IC, don't take it personally OOC. If you do have any concerns, the messages will be open on this blog.

—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—

We wish you a most pleasant encounter, and may fortune smile upon you and joy guide your steps!

[askgeraudduroc]

The Hummingbird man could not help but find himself, in a friendly manner, charmed by the gentle manners of the young nightingale.

Maybe it warranted boop- Or... Better not. It was too early and he didn't want to offend the young lady.

Instead, with a remaining intuition, his eyes would caugh a small hint of the little nightingale's desire to dance, so, he offers his hand as an invitation.

Would you like to do me the honor of offering me this piece? I can't help but feel... A little delighted by this melody.

If you do accept to concede me this, I would also like to apologize in advance. This old man may be a little rusty, but worry not. I will not step on you.

@askgeraudduroc (Napoleon) & @the-little-miss-poet

—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—

—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—

Félicitations ! The stars of the evening have chosen you as dance and conversational partners for the waltz and/or quadrille. This thread is for you two to at least talk to each other and either get along or don't get along in an entertaining way.

The entrance to the ball may be found here, with more information and activities to partake in.

We would suggest describing your mask and greeting as a good starting point. Bonne chance !

—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—

Here are some Out Of Character things to keep in mind:

You're both wearing masks, and might not recognise each other even if you know each other. Maybe if you want to be able to recognise your partner, ask OOCly first if you can.

For the specific dance partner threads, only post if you're a participant.

There's no word count requirement for roleplay posts. We encourage shorter, conversational posts to promote interaction, but we won't police writing styles.

Real life takes priority, so please be understanding if dance partners don't respond quickly. We hope for a conversation to develop within 2-4 weeks.

If your dance partner is unresponsive and you're eager to participate, use the general mingle threads. You might find a new partner or even ask a host or staff member to dance.

Remember, this is an in-character high-class event with etiquette expectations. While your character can be rude, avoid excessive disruptions. The focus should be on conversation and relationships.

Remember that in-character actions don't reflect out-of-character feelings. If a character is rude IC, don't take it personally OOC. If you do have any concerns, the messages will be open on this blog.

—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—

We wish you a most pleasant encounter, and may fortune smile upon you and joy guide your steps!

[askgeraudduroc]

The young Nightingale wouldn't have much trouble locating the person in the avian mask, that, being more specific, was a dazzling hummingbird, rather because of the jewels that adorned the iridescent feathers of his mask. To make a contrast, the rest of his attire, that consisted in a tailcoat, breeches, shoes and even his top hat, was all white. The only difference were his black gloves, which shared the same floral pattern of the elogated peak of his mask.

Currently, such a man with a robust but elegant bearing, of notable age, but who still maintained his vividness, and with a serene expression but who had once directed the fire of a thousand battles, was observing the development of the evening, with no clear attempt to participate.

Yet, it wouldn't take him long to notice the young girl's greeting, much less recognize her with a slight smile and a polite nod.

Hello there, Gracious Nightingale.

Will it be with you that I shall have the honor of sharing this masquerade?

(( @the-little-miss-poet ))

((Uhm Hello! This is an OOC part just to show Napoleon's mask, since I'm afraid of not describing it right ^^;))

@askgeraudduroc (Napoleon) & @the-little-miss-poet

—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—

—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—

Félicitations ! The stars of the evening have chosen you as dance and conversational partners for the waltz and/or quadrille. This thread is for you two to at least talk to each other and either get along or don't get along in an entertaining way.

The entrance to the ball may be found here, with more information and activities to partake in.

We would suggest describing your mask and greeting as a good starting point. Bonne chance !

—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—

Here are some Out Of Character things to keep in mind:

You're both wearing masks, and might not recognise each other even if you know each other. Maybe if you want to be able to recognise your partner, ask OOCly first if you can.

For the specific dance partner threads, only post if you're a participant.

There's no word count requirement for roleplay posts. We encourage shorter, conversational posts to promote interaction, but we won't police writing styles.

Real life takes priority, so please be understanding if dance partners don't respond quickly. We hope for a conversation to develop within 2-4 weeks.

If your dance partner is unresponsive and you're eager to participate, use the general mingle threads. You might find a new partner or even ask a host or staff member to dance.

Remember, this is an in-character high-class event with etiquette expectations. While your character can be rude, avoid excessive disruptions. The focus should be on conversation and relationships.

Remember that in-character actions don't reflect out-of-character feelings. If a character is rude IC, don't take it personally OOC. If you do have any concerns, the messages will be open on this blog.

—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—·—

We wish you a most pleasant encounter, and may fortune smile upon you and joy guide your steps!

[askgeraudduroc]

Duroc would keep on maintaning his smile, as he gently would ask.

A Barbie and Kirby house...? Hmmm... Do you mean you would want it to be pink? That sounds wonderful! I believe uncle Joachim would li-

But then, as the vague shapes shift and gain the figure of a... Giant treehouse, his eyes widen in genuine atonishment.

Yet, Duroc wouldn't never complain, as he was ddeply grateful for Ney's help, even more when seeing how happy his daughter looked.

Then, as he got an idea, Duroc would gently take Helene into his arms.

Now, dear, I will ask you to hold tight on me!

Let me show you a better look up...!

Extending his wings, he lets out a sigh, as he hoped to be not too rusty, before he begins to ascend.

He would make sure to gently flutter, taking all his time to gain height in order to not scare Helene too much.

Now, where would you like the rainbows and sparkles to be? Remember, the more detailed you are, the more it will help Ney make our house...!

(( @le-brave-des-braves, @your-dandy-king, @rapports-de-combat))

The House that Ney Built

Let's follow the footsteps of Prince of Moscow, as he walks through the encampment of the Army of Beyond. It feels familiar. It feels like home, because that's it, that has always been his life, no matter how many times he tried to leave, to hide in the arms of a beautiful woman or in idyllic family scenes. Ney was meant to fight, and that will not change. No rest for the wicked, as they say. He made his decisions, here are the consequences.

But there are still those who have never seen the terrors of war, and he knew he would do anything so they would never have to. One such being is Hélène, the sweet child of Marshal Bessières, whose existence might not be entirely natural, but nevertheless, she is here and just lost her home. Her sister is on the way (eggs, goodness...) and military camp is all but a proper place for raising one's child.

He finally found Duroc and asked Hélène to join him, guiding them to an empty place. They can still see the camp, but it is a much calmer spot. It is ideal for a house.

This will feel odd, but I think I know how to make you a new home. A safe one. Frioul, any requirements? How many rooms? The more accurate description I receive the more... livable the place will be, I assume. I'm still new to this magic sh-stuff.

@your-dandy-king @askgeraudduroc @murillo-enthusiast

[askgeraudduroc]

Since they left from what once used to be their home, Duroc hadn't said a single word, because... What else could he say?

His home, which he had so carefully crafted and molded over decades, had been destroyed. But he couldn't say anything. No. He was all to blame.

It's always his fault. His fault for making so many mistakes. His fault for being so stupid. His ultimate fault.

So, instead, he would have remained silent, until Ney decided to approach him.

His gaze has landed on Ney as he spoke, yet it didn't seem to be really looking at him. His eyes would dart, until finally daring to open his mouth to let out something barely louder than a mumble.

Well... It would be... Good to have four bedrooms would be necessary, with a living room and kitchen... A... A bathroom would also be nice.

But then, his gaze would drift to the small person who accompanied them both... Helene. Oh God... Does she even recognize him as her father?

He still remembered the last time he had made her cry because of his tantrum. He couldn't be selfish again.

So, he knelt in front of Helene, and a smile crept onto his face so, alongside with his usual 'cheerful' tone, he tried to mask the lack of sparkle in his eyes.

Tell me, mon petit, how would you like our new home to be? Let's make it much more fun than the last one!

What do you think?

The House that Ney Built

Let's follow the footsteps of Prince of Moscow, as he walks through the encampment of the Army of Beyond. It feels familiar. It feels like home, because that's it, that has always been his life, no matter how many times he tried to leave, to hide in the arms of a beautiful woman or in idyllic family scenes. Ney was meant to fight, and that will not change. No rest for the wicked, as they say. He made his decisions, here are the consequences.

But there are still those who have never seen the terrors of war, and he knew he would do anything so they would never have to. One such being is Hélène, the sweet child of Marshal Bessières, whose existence might not be entirely natural, but nevertheless, she is here and just lost her home. Her sister is on the way (eggs, goodness...) and military camp is all but a proper place for raising one's child.

He finally found Duroc and asked Hélène to join him, guiding them to an empty place. They can still see the camp, but it is a much calmer spot. It is ideal for a house.

This will feel odd, but I think I know how to make you a new home. A safe one. Frioul, any requirements? How many rooms? The more accurate description I receive the more... livable the place will be, I assume. I'm still new to this magic sh-stuff.

@your-dandy-king @askgeraudduroc @murillo-enthusiast