nexus_crossings | Actually questions about marriage proposal in various cultures.

Actually questions about marriage proposal in various cultures.

For Emperor Lotor, here, it's been surprisingly difficult to find reasons to be away from Princess Allura enough to do this. And even more surprisingly, lately, Shiro, the Black Paladin, seemed to be tailing him. A lot. Perhaps he still didn't quite trust him, and wanted to keep an eye on Lotor, or, perhaps, Shiro grew fond of the Emperor?

Whyever not. He often seemed to show support for Lotor, after all. It was pleasing. Perhaps he might even call the Black Paladin a friend? ~~That's how things work, right, in friendships?~~

However, ally or not, friend or not, Shiro was the Princess's friend and would surely tell her what Lotor was about to do, if he overheard it, and that couldn't stand.

So, after going into some buildings and exiting through backdoors, various buildings, and it took quite a bit of time to do such things inconspicuously and without just telling the other man to go away, which wouldn't be very diplomatic, the prince, no, the emperor felt.

Finally, in the most natural ways possible, hopefully, and without any diplomatic faux pases and straining of possible friendships, Lotor managed to lose Shiro.

And now, he searches for places with people who look intelligent enough and cultured enough.

He has a rather important question.

Princess Allura has told him that she doesn't have many friends in Nexus, so perhpas nobody will tell her of Lotor's inquiries. That's what the young newly installed Emperor counts on.

He wants to surprise Princess Allura, after all.

He considers asking around in the library. Or in front of library. Or in the plaza. He might ask around in both places.

And so, he asks. Anyone whom he hasn't seen with princess Allura, and who seems intelligent enough. Though, in unfamilliar reality that is in middle of realities, or so it seems, it might be hard to judge.

Lotor asks:

"There's a Princess, dear to my heart, to whom I wish to propose a more permanent alliance. A very desirable, on both sides, royal alliance. Our interests aligh perfectly, and so do our interest. Our experiences, taken together, can enrich each other.

The thought of alliance seems to please both of us."

He smiles, and then frowns a little.

"However, even as the Princess seems to respond well to my advances, it seems that there's some difficulty in making the final decision. With so many interesting individuals here, from so many different realities, I find myself assured that someone has to have had experiences which would help answer the question: what should I do?"

Lotor smiles a little.

"I wish to be direct, with the Princess; however, I don't wish to offend her. Perhaps my proposal should still wait a bit. Maybe even a year, so that she can be assured that my honest and affections and interests aren't fleeting in any way or form. What do you think? I can divulge some more details, of general sort, about the situation, if I haven't made myself clear so far."

Lotor seems slightly embarassed. He could act not embarassed, if he wanted, but he supposes that showing some embarassment - partly what he feels, even - might net him more answers, in this area. People might, hmm, want to save him from his predicament if they perceive it as such, after all, or so he thinks.

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"Oh, goodness." The man he's speaking to--human in appearance, but with an aura of immense celestial power for those who can sense such things--looks immediately delighted by the question. What can he say, he loves weddings! People drink at them and have fun, and then the bride and groom go off on their honeymoon. They range from kitschy to genuinely touching, and they're always interesting. "Kudos for best question I've heard in a while."

"Hm. I may not be the perfect person to answer, given that I'm not even mortal and still adapting to human cultural norms. But then again I sort of got accidentally proposed to not that long ago, and it was wonderful."

He's wearing a ring on the third finger of his left hand, in point of fact. Platinum, with sapphire dust and a butterfly design. "I think...well, humans seem to like for it to be a surprise, and a bit of a fancy or romantic occasion. It doesn't have to be anything grand. I do recommend you make sure it's just you and her, no onlookers, in case there are concerns she wants to talk over with you first."

"How long have you been courting, then?"

Lotor doesn't really know any celestial beings, unless a spiritual lion counts, which it might. Still, he doesn't feel or recognise the aura. Special circumstances would be needed for him to feel it.

He's pleased to hear praised at his question, but not at the implication that either he or Allura might be Earthlings.

"We are not humans, she and I. We're Alteans. Two of three last ones."

Last ones - that's not truth and Lotor knows it, just won't say it, and only telepathy would get truth out, especially as he sounds rather frank while saying the lie about being one of last ones.

Lotor's Altean colony is not something that can be shared with Allura, he's already decided that. A secret too dark for the princess. But that's not the matter for concern, now.

"However, human customs might be appropriate to learn, as well. Several important potential guests or witnesses happen to be humans."

The Paladins of Voltron. If they come to Nexus, if the wedding will even occur in Nexus and not at home.

Even if, one of the paladins is here already. And will definitely be invited to potential wedding by Allura. So, Earthling customs might be fitting, too.

"Surprise," Lotor says.

He smiles.

Ah, length of courting?

"I don't suppose one can court anyone while being their prisoner, or later while in alliance, but busy fighting for one's throne. And so, I would say I've truly courted Princess Allura for a few months, till now."

Suddenly Lotor fowns as he wonders if that's too short a period. Perhaps not. The feelings are strong, after all! And the political benefits, just as much.

Also, how does one get accidentally proposed to? He decides not to ask.

Roland has made it a habit to return to the Grand Library almost every day, attempting to finish at least one piece of new knowledge before going about his routine. Today, upon his arrival, he immediately jogs over to a reading nook with a tome tucked under his arm, ready to absorb more intel to take back home to Evermore. A Chief Consul's work is never done, he thinks to himself.

But before he can get into the nitty gritty of his research, the approaching azure-skinned man poses a far more amusing question than anything he's read so far. So amusing in fact, that Roland immediately abandons his book, an extremely delighted expression gracing his face. This was going to be an interesting conversation, he could already tell.

"Wow. Smooth-talker." Roland quips with a small smirk. But the stranger already seems frazzled, so he takes pity on him and adds quickly, arms crossing over his chest: "I think you're overthinking it. Whether you're proposing a marriage or an alliance, communication with the other party is key. That's how you negotiate. That's how you get the deal signed, and that's how you win them over. Ask her why she's hesitant, and then do what you can to assuage her concerns. Work from there."

He's used to brokering deals between countries with differing interests after all, and though the real Roland - the older one who's lost a wife, who has a loving son - has far more wisdom to dispel when it comes to the matters of the heart, the man before him might benefit more from a direct approach.

Edited 2020-05-19 15:55 (UTC)

Overthinking? Have a raised brow.

How bold - or, perhaps, it would be, if anyone here knew of Lotor's status.

Still, there might be an ounce on wisdom to be found in this suggestion.

"In other words, I should talk freely on the subject, with the princess, without any special gestures or additions. Is that so?"

However...

"Still, what if that makes the conversation less, hm, romantic, perhaps? Setting the mood is often important."

"Heh. Well, I can't argue with that. Who wouldn't want to be wooed, right?" Roland smiles, images of a past life flashing very quickly in his mind's eye. "I know I definitely tried to set the mood. Not sure if it worked half the time, but hey. It's part of the journey."

He stands up straighter this time, the hard-edge in the constant crease of his brow and the vigilance in his shoulders returning in an instant. A past life; a past love. All behind him, now.

"But if the conversation you're about to have is a candid one, then it's best you gush over your Princess afterwards. The worst that could happen is she's swept up by the glamour and she forgets to think about what she really wants out of your relationship." He nods sagely. If Lotor was looking for advice on what type of flower to get, or what time of day was most romantic for a proposal, unfortunately Roland simply lacks the penchant for flair Leander would have offered, should he be in this particular situation.

Candid. That makes him wonder. How much should the Princess learn about him?

This, however, was perhaps a question for years and years after the union would begin.

After all, right now, she was supposed to love him.

"Naturally, I shall ask her what she desires. I'd never impose on Allura."

"Tell me, however: would it be right to try to make plans in this place, or should it wait until we're back in our galaxy? When it comes to our future, she may wish to consult her closest friends, as well, and not all of them are here. And so, I'm slightly hesitant to, hm, propose here. Perhaps I'm too careful?"

"Glad to hear that." Roland uncrosses his arms at last and gestures for the man to take a seat, get more comfortable. "Princess Allura, huh? So I take it you're Prince...?" He leads on, realizing just now that he was in no position to give relationship advice when he hadn't even introduced himself.

"And I don't see why you can't do both. You can plan it here, and then go back home and ask her counsel about what you've drafted up. I'm not really sure how alliances work where you're from, but I've led some pretty hard-nosed negotiations in my time," he shares, brows furrowed seriously. "And what wins the other side over is when you can be clear about what you want. What you're willing to give, and what needs to stay."

"My name's Lotor. And actually, I'm now Emperor. And yes, her name is Allura. She's the Princess of Altea."

Lotor considers it all.

"You make a valid point, again. I'll be perfectly clear with princess Allura about my future plans. After all, they are to the mutual benefit of the two of us, and to mutual benefit of my Galra Empire and her Voltron Coalition. You're perfectly right, human. Ah- what's your name?"

"You can call me Roland. Heh. A pleasure to make your acquaintance, Emperor Lotor." He nods in acknowledgment. He listens to Lotor intently, noting that there really is more world to discover than the two he's already lived in. After the monarch speaks, Roland leans forward and replies promptly.

"So it's a union of both love and convenience, eh? Good for you two. I'm sure you'll both be very happy." A beat passes, then: "I also sincerely hope your citizens will celebrate your union. Remember, as rulers, they always come first."

There are thousands of different alternate realities to see, that's how it is. And their counterparts exist in many of them.

"It is my pleasure to meet you as well, Roland."

"I hope so."

"You speak like Allura. Worry not, I have the best interests of our people in mind. I'd never settle for less. And yet some still doubt my intentions."

As if the very thought of doing any less than anything he considers the very best, for their people, would disturb Lotor. And he sounds utterly sincere.

"That's the spirit!" Roland is visibly pleased upon hearing Lotor's enthusiasm. He may play different roles in Evermore, but at the end of the day, Roland is also a leader - a king, a president - and he will always default to the happiness and well-being of the greater good.

"If you're in a position of authority, dissent and pleading your case is always going to be common," he says, wisely. "The only way to quiet the critics and address their concerns is to just do the job, and do it well. I trust you and your new Empress are ready for the hard work that comes with respect."

"That's true."

Lotor also seems pleased.

"I believe we're perfectly ready. Say, Roland, are you in the leadership position on your homeworld? I think you must be."

Edited 2020-06-02 08:48 (UTC)

Roland leans forward, weight against his forearms resting on the table, with a smile on his face. He's never been shy about his life's work.

"You've got good instincts. I'm lucky enough to say that I am indeed," he answers. "I'm the Chief Consul of the kingdom of Evermore, and the president of another nation in...another kingdom. Right now, I actively serve King Evan Pettiwhisker Tildrum. Our place is still growing, but we're pretty peaceful. Could be a great honeymoon spot for you and your bride-to-be!"

"I should first look at your place, to see how it is."

Which means that Emperor Lotor is considering taking Chief Consul Roland up on that offer.

"What is the kingdom of Evermore like?"

Roland's eyes light up with a fire that was absent moments before. While in his original home world he was voted by the people to lead, in Evermore, he worked hand-in-hand with all walks of life, with Evan, to create a nation out of nothing. He is proud of what they've accomplished.

"It's a budding kingdom right in the middle of the Heartlands," Roland replies with fondness. "We made sure to choose a spot that was full of rich, natural resources without having to agitate another kingdom's borders, so we're surrounded by plains, hills, and right beyond our gates is the open sea."

"Our people are diverse, too. They're good people who come from every nation, all ready to start a new life with us. As long as you're willing to put in the work to help Evermore become even greater, we'll never deny you a citizenship."

Of all the angels to be confronted with this question, Beelzebub is instantly wishing his brother was here instead. However, as the angel of oaths and alliances, perhaps he is exactly who should be here for this question.

The person who stops in their tracks is a 6'8" warrior wearing swords, has huge wings and absolutely nervous about this topic. Beelzebub pulls himself together quickly, in part because these are the things he is meant to be there for, to help humans with.

"Marriage's a very serious oath to undertake. It should be approached slowly, especially when an alliance may be attached to it." At least he didn't sound as nervous as he felt. However, the topic is personal and probably deserves something more personal. After all he was a suitor to a prince.. or a princess seeking a prince. Beelzebub ignores the confusion caused by cultural differences in his own situation.

"We exchanged items, tokens. I don't know that anything between my mate and I was a human proposal but we're considering a wedding and alliance between our courts." Beelzebub had gone about everything with only half understanding what he was doing, and a partner who had an equal lack of understanding, but they had managed to muddle through it.

Lotor's seen taller. With more swords, too. Wings? Some races have them, nothing to gawk at.

He nods as he hears about the solemnity of marriage. Naturally, it is something solemn. And binding. With a lot of sharing required. (Which is exactly why Lotor is going to share his future, and none of his past save for what convenient, with beloved Allura. Certainly.)

He's honest about sharing the future, isn't he? Surely at least for a century or two.

"Items. Ah, yes. Are you speaking of the wedding gifts, or something else?" the half-Galran asks. "Wedding gifts, as well as gifts for the firstborn child, are customary in Galra Empire, as well. For example, the Princess in question, has received a helmet as a birth gift from my parents, ten thousand years ago. I think it fitting, as she grew up into a wonderful warrior, though they could not yet know that."

And finding that information out, from very old notes, took a lot of doing, and he's still wondering why the quiznak a helmet, but, he's glad he managed to find that information out. From the witch's note, for some reason. She had surely found that out from Honerva's notes.

He can imagine baby Allura with a helmet. Hm. He suddenly wonders whether Allura would want to be a mother. ~~He's very much uncertain that he'd want to father.~~

"Tokens. I'll be certain to think of something very special and unique, that none other could obtain."

As it just has to be very special. Though he's not yet certain what. He'll think and ponder on that.

Wedding gifts? Before the wedding? Was he supposed to be doing this? Beelzebub is suddenly panicking inside because he believes firmly in following traditions on these sorts of matters. Now he is realizing he has almost no knowledge on the appropriate things to do in what order.

"No." He finally responds. "Just giving something important or trading them with each other."

Beelzebu tries to think if unique is important. To that he shrugs. "We traded things we always wear."

"That makes sense. I'll consider such a tradition."

Beelzebub hesitates and then shows his left hand. There's a ring crammed onto his pinkie. "He gave me this."

Lotor nods.

"And what does this one signify?"

The ring is worn and has a family crest on it.

"It was passed down through them men in his family."

Lotor nods, this signifies a union between those two without a shred of a doubt.

"That's so, then. I see. I'm afraid I have no such item for mine, but, it is good to know."

Beelzebub shrugs. "You could make one with the same purpose. Someone has to start the tradition if there isn't one."

"That's an interesting idea. I shall consider it."

He does seem a little lost in thought now. He is.

Beelzebub is about to leave but then stops. "If you'd want it blessed, I will do it for you."

"Blessed in what way?"

There's some worry, perhaps, perhaps barely veiled honest distrust in Lotor's voice. Come to think of it, he hasn't really asked who this man is. Is he a priest? Something else? What kind of a blessing, and was that even safe?

"I bless alliances for strength and fruition as part of my duties."

A wedding or alliance blessing Beelzebub would take with the highest seriousness. A drunkard he is but these are serious topics.

"That sounds appropriate. I'd ask you for such, then."

"All you have to do is ask when you find your item." Beelzebub is very serious about this duty and it shows.

Lotor appreciates that, since this man isn't part of the Galra Empire, but still offers his services.

(Or that's how Lotor sees it.)

"I shall. Thank you."

[As far as Beelzebub sees this is a mortal, humanoid so his alliance is definitely under the angel's domain.]

You welcome. Good luck finding an appropriate gift.

~~[Lotor's a mortal, so that still puts him there, doesn't it? He's ten thousand years old, but, details, right?]~~

I shall endavour to do my best, and will, hm, as they, Earthlings, say, 'get back to you on that'.

So it was safe to say that this place was confusing, and only getting more confusing with every passing second. Osomatsu barely comprehended what the Nexus was, but he was making his way about things, his hands in his pockets. What was the purpose of him being here? What was the meaning of anything? What was the meaning of life?

Alright, maybe at that point he was getting a little naval-gaze-y. Slow down there, Oso.

Luckily, he has the exact motivation to slow down, because someone has just asked him a question. The sudden appearance of a person (a person? some kind of alien, maybe? the dude's blue.) causes him to freeze in his tracks, raising a brow. He hears the guy out, then speaks.

"Can't say I'm too familiar with the ins and outs of royalty, but if she likes the idea, then maybe you should just go for it."

Bitterly, in the back of his mind, he notes how even aliens have better luck than him, but alien royalty was a different ballgame, probably.

"You've dated this girl for a while? Or, err...how do royals call it-- courted this girl? You should know what she likes, then, right?"

He wondered if he was really the best kind of guy to explain this, but--

"If that's the case, then you should just make like, the ideal night for her, then go for it. Just you and her doing something she enjoys, and then you drop down one knee, pull out a ring, and ask her if she'll marry you and unite your kingdoms for the greatest good....or something like that."

He smiles. Makes sense in his head, at least.

Who is this little human boy and how dare does he speak to him so casually - oh, that's right, because Lotor asked.

He considers it all, then says,

"I do know what she likes, that is true. You raise a very valid point. An ideal night, you suggest? Why night, and not a day? Unlike my self or paladin Shiro, the Princess Allura usually sleeps at night."

Edited 2020-05-22 18:29 (UTC)

So the guy seems to genuinely consider what he said - then he replies. Osomatsu shrugs, scratching under his nose, an idle gesture.

"Well, usually people think nights are more romantic. Maybe it's like, the moonlight shining down on you? The whole 'in a blanket of stars, we are eternal' sort of thing? This is speaking from a human's perspective, though."

Could easily be different for aliens, but then again, this is the first time he's talked to one so casually.

"Could be daytime too! I guess it really depends. Some people like things more dramatic, some people like things more casual."

Personally, he'd have opted for casual, but he knew the most 'romantic' people he knew would opt for something like a grand gesture, and that's probably more fitting to royalty, right?

Stars. And planets. And other sights. That made sense.

Lotor nods.

"I'll think it through. For one so young as you, child, you're helpful."

Osomatsu snickers.

"Eh? It's been a while since someone called me really young..."

Things were easier the last time someone talked to him like he was a little kid. Less expected to be responsible. Got away with a lot more.

"I'm an adult. 24! In, uh, Earth human years. Dunno if that makes a difference. So I've gotta be thinking about this kind of stuff too!"

...Or so he said. Better to sound experienced even if he had no romantic experience at all.

Edited 2020-05-22 20:09 (UTC)

So he just seems a bit childish, for some reasons.

That's not usual.

"My apologies."

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Actually questions about marriage proposal in various cultures.

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