I'm Geraud Christophe Michel Duroc, but call me just Duroc!
I was one of Napoleon's loyal generals, and his ex Marechal Du Palace! he told me about this site, so, i'm here to answer any correspondence i might have!
((This is a joke RP account of Duroc, which isn't fully historical accurate, and It is just the interpretation of me, @sillybumblebeegirl!))
((Aside from Duroc, other people might appear:
Jean-Baptiste Bessieres, his husband, who speak in a more serious and greenish way, and who i share with @your-dandy-king!
The Emperor Himself, who speaks in a bold and cursive way, and is currenly very into beekeping.
could you please poke at your true wife @askgeraudduroc and see how he is we tried contacting him often
I can try, I suppose.
He sets about writing several letters addressed to @askgeraudduroc asking him to make himself available to those in need of his services, and to make it known that he is well.
It would take a full month for Duroc to finally notice the dust-covered letters from the Emperor. Alerted, he wouldn't hesitate to take flight, convinced a personal apology was the only appropriate course of action.
A-Ah, Your Majesty...! My biggest... deepest apologies! The afterlife time works so strange...
...But apparently he has forgotten that he had made no attempt to conceal his fairy wings upon his arrival.
Out of nowhere, Duroc appeared, holding a two-tier cake. The frosting, white with delicate white decorations, wasn't overly complex but also had no imperfections.
My deepest apologies, Your Majesty! I was a little late with the frosting… I wanted it to be a fitting tribute in this very special day for many, including myself!
could you please poke at your true wife @askgeraudduroc and see how he is we tried contacting him often
I can try, I suppose.
He sets about writing several letters addressed to @askgeraudduroc asking him to make himself available to those in need of his services, and to make it known that he is well.
It would take a full month for Duroc to finally notice the dust-covered letters from the Emperor. Alerted, he wouldn't hesitate to take flight, convinced a personal apology was the only appropriate course of action.
A-Ah, Your Majesty...! My biggest... deepest apologies! The afterlife time works so strange...
...But apparently he has forgotten that he had made no attempt to conceal his fairy wings upon his arrival.
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...!
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.
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.
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,
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!
The carriage arrived at the place indicated in the invitation letter. First, a slim man in an elegant top hat got out to help his sister - a young girl with light brown hair - out. The girl had her hair tied up high, and wore an elegant, beige dress decorated with large feathers.
She adjusted the beautiful nightingale mask she was wearing and smiled. - today she was a bird. And what a bird!
After greeted with a woman with canary attire, she went inside the ballroom. Ah, what splendor! So many people in various masks, music, dancing and huge boxes with presents... The girl couldn't remember the last time she had been to such a ball, and most importantly - to a masquerade ball! Her short life had not allowed her to discover the world, and now, in the afterlife, she finally got such an opportunity!
Little Nightingale was now guided by one goal - to have the best time possible.
She let go of her brother's arm (who probably came to watch over her somewhere on the side), and with her eyes she began to search for her partner - the person in the avian mask. She noticed him and came a bit closer, then curtsies gracefully.
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 ^^;))
The girl smiled gently. Her partner had a beautiful colorful mask - just like a hummingbird's wings. Her mask was more subdued and delicate, but just as beautiful.
"It seems so, Monsieur Dazzling Hummingbird. It will be an honor to accompany you this evening."
Despite her fourteen years, the little nightingale could match many adults in maturity and manners. She also had no problems talking to them... Suddenly, she heard the musicians start to play a beautiful waltz, and the couples slowly started to walk out onto the dance floor. Ah, how wonderful it would be to dance... The little nightingale looked at her partner shyly, wondering if he would ask her to dance.
( @askgeraudduroc )
// ooc: so impressive! Emmi's mask looks like similar to this one. I'll draw it soon!
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.
"It would be an honor to dance with you, Monsieur."
Nightingale's blue eyes sparkled with joy as the hummingbird masked man extended his hand to her. She took it gracefully and allowed herself to be led onto the dance floor.
"Please don't think so badly of yourself, Monsieur. Deep in my heart I feel that you are a true gentleman, so I trust you."
She smiled slightly and they both started dancing, guided by the beautiful melody of the waltz.
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?
*Little Nightingale, led in the dance by Monsieur Hummingbird, listened to the melody of the waltz. However, she did not know who composed it, just like her companion.*
It does not remind me of any melody I know, but it is very beautiful...
*The young lady looked at the man. She could only see his gentle grayish eyes, but she immediately guessed the feelings they expressed.*
Please do not worry, under the watchful eye of a good teacher you would surely discover your musical talent! I know several who could teach you - my brother, uncle Franz, or Madame Marie, a friend of the family. Just let me know. I'll tell them a few nice words about you, and maybe they'll agree to take you on as a student!
*she said immediately, and her gray-blue eyes visible through the mask sparkled with joy and optimism. This girl was always ready to help or comfort someone...*
I have been in contact with music since I was a child. Dad plays the violin, and mom, brother and older sister play the piano. Speaking of my dear brother... he composes beautiful polonaises and mazurkas that simply encourage you to dance. I also studied a little, but... I think I prefer poetry to music.
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?
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!
The dead, on principle, do not mingle. They remain trapped in silos of their own making, whirlpools of purgatory that contain them until Judgement Day. As Toussaint approaches, however, and the commemoration of the faithful deceased with it, the veil between the living and dead begins to thin, releasing lonely souls from their cages...
One such soul steps into the hall, the gold tassels on his short boots bouncing with his stride. His hussar's tunic is dark blue with gold braid, a sharp contrast to his red culottes. Completing the dress uniform of a standard aide-de-camp is a pelisse slung over his left shoulder. His right shoulder, down to the arm, is in a sling. The gauze is festooned with violets and slender blooms, vibrant in the way only tropical flora can be.
The soldier's upright bearing cuts a dashing figure through the crowd, though his gaze is of a man at once in search of something and utterly lost. He does not appear to realise the mask of a swan has been grafted onto his face, or that his remaining arm, under which a red shako is tucked, also holds an invitation letter.
He will stop the first person he catches the attention of, perhaps an individual wearing the mask of a flower, and ask, slightly breathless:
Excuse me, monsieur, do you know what this place is? I'm searching for someone...
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!))
A masquerade! The man sees, with sudden clarity, the lavish costumes that adorn the crowds, which almost make his hussar's uniform pale in comparison. The gentleman before him wears a mask with petals and antennae—not a flower, then, but some insect; vaguely tropical, but not quite from home—
At the man's question, he breaks out of his trance.
My partner? Well, yes, I suppose, but not for a dance, I... I'm not quite sure why I'm at this masquerade. You see, I'm searching for my wife. Have you seen her? If not, her father will do. Do you know him, Marshal Victor, the Duke of Belluno—
He stops. What is he thinking, rambling without a care for proper ettiquette? The gentleman who had answered his questions already seems worn out, faded. It is best not to impose on his kindness.
Please pardon my manners—how I have behaved in an unfitting manner to my station! Allow me to introduce myself. You may call me—
He glances at an empty platter nearby to ascertain his mask: an orange beak with black accents and curling, silvered feathers.
—Monsieur Cygne. And who might you be, monsieur, with your impeccable taste in formal clothes?
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.
*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.
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!
The carriage arrived at the place indicated in the invitation letter. First, a slim man in an elegant top hat got out to help his sister - a young girl with light brown hair - out. The girl had her hair tied up high, and wore an elegant, beige dress decorated with large feathers.
She adjusted the beautiful nightingale mask she was wearing and smiled. - today she was a bird. And what a bird!
After greeted with a woman with canary attire, she went inside the ballroom. Ah, what splendor! So many people in various masks, music, dancing and huge boxes with presents... The girl couldn't remember the last time she had been to such a ball, and most importantly - to a masquerade ball! Her short life had not allowed her to discover the world, and now, in the afterlife, she finally got such an opportunity!
Little Nightingale was now guided by one goal - to have the best time possible.
She let go of her brother's arm (who probably came to watch over her somewhere on the side), and with her eyes she began to search for her partner - the person in the avian mask. She noticed him and came a bit closer, then curtsies gracefully.
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 ^^;))
The girl smiled gently. Her partner had a beautiful colorful mask - just like a hummingbird's wings. Her mask was more subdued and delicate, but just as beautiful.
"It seems so, Monsieur Dazzling Hummingbird. It will be an honor to accompany you this evening."
Despite her fourteen years, the little nightingale could match many adults in maturity and manners. She also had no problems talking to them... Suddenly, she heard the musicians start to play a beautiful waltz, and the couples slowly started to walk out onto the dance floor. Ah, how wonderful it would be to dance... The little nightingale looked at her partner shyly, wondering if he would ask her to dance.
( @askgeraudduroc )
// ooc: so impressive! Emmi's mask looks like similar to this one. I'll draw it soon!
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.
"It would be an honor to dance with you, Monsieur."
Nightingale's blue eyes sparkled with joy as the hummingbird masked man extended his hand to her. She took it gracefully and allowed herself to be led onto the dance floor.
"Please don't think so badly of yourself, Monsieur. Deep in my heart I feel that you are a true gentleman, so I trust you."
She smiled slightly and they both started dancing, guided by the beautiful melody of the waltz.
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?
