NationStates Jolt Archive

Castellum Sacrosanctum
Veritas, Effit

A cry of “Salve!” rang through the vast, splendid throne room that served as administration center for all of the Holy Empire. Slouched in the Sedes Religiosa, Holy Emperor Ibrahaim XVII managed a smile. His frail, sixty six year old body moved to greet his son.

Crown Prince Ibrahaim XVIII considered his ailing father. It would not take much. One quick snap - but that wouldn’t do. The Excubitor on the door would be on him in a second, and Effit would be visited by yet another royal scandal. “Hello, Pater,” he smiled, bowing deep in the traditional way.

“...Filius,” wheezed the ancient secular and religious leader. “What...troubles you?”

The Crown Prince smiled benignly, or so he hoped. “Father, I was hoping you could come with me. Flavia wanted to see you.”

“Oh...did...she?” asked the Holy Emperor. Flavia was his oldest daughter, six years Ibrahaim XVIII’s junior at thirty-three. Currently, she was pregnant again by her husband, a Ryansislean merchant. Effit had stood by herself for years, but repeated defeat at the hands of the infidels of the south and the capitalists of the west had humbled the Realm of Ibrahaim.

“Yes, Pater. The baby gives her trouble. She wanted to see you, in case...” The Crown Prince left that last thought unfinished. Effitian medicine was not as advanced as their neighbors to the west. The Holy Emperor sighed. Even being - arguably - the most powerful man in Tilsitia, his children held a special place in his heart. He could not leave his oldest daughter alone...not on a day like this.

“After you, Filius,” agreed the old man, slowly but surely levering himself out of the seat.
___________________________________

Government Factory
North Matteton, Healdsburg

North Matteton has only one reason to exist, and that’s to make me miserable, thought Andrew D’Analia as he screwed a wheel on to a toy car. What was that, the three thousandth of the day? I’d be better off in Ryansisle....hell, I’d be better off in Effit.

D’Analia wasn’t used to work - or, rather, he wasn’t used to work of this sort. Back home in Tharia, Walten would take care of the garden - among other things - and he had an army of servants to wait on every need.

Of course, as the government propaganda broadcasts were fond of saying, here in Healdsburg, there were no needs - only wants. The government provided food, shelter, and medicine for free - but transportation had to be paid for, and ‘free’ money could only be gotten by working.

Once upon a time, D’Analia had more money than he could spend in a thousand lifetimes. More money than anyone in the Commonwealth, excepting a few members of select other Great Houses and the owner of the Iansislean International Telegraph Corporation. Now he couldn’t even afford a ticket back to Harbor City.

He wondered if that Callahanian dog was aware just how effective his exile was. He - the Duke Andrew D’Analia, overlord of Sentry Island! - had been made a beggar in an impoverished state, his family fortune and holdings added to that of the crown. He had anticipated being married to a Callahanian - the King’s sister, none the less! - would have at least allowed him to save some face, perhaps retain a reasonable fortune. Maybe even be sent not to a foreign country, but to live a life of pleasure in the tropical paradise of Gallaga.

D’Analia thought of that last day, before a Cruinniú of his peers, reduced to a mere commoner in front of everyone he respected. Oh, James, he thought, you don’t know what an enemy you made that day. Just eight hundred and seventy more hours of work - at the state mandated maximum of twenty five per week - and I shall have you!
___________________________________

Castellum Sacrosanctum
Veritas, Effit

Flavia was sobbing, her unborn baby thumping at her stomach. Ibrahaim XVIII held her close, trying to console his grieving sister. Members of the Custos Sacrosanctum laid a cloth over the deceased Holy Emperor Ibrahaim XVII, a small pool of dark blood forming at the foot of the stairs.

“Sometimes, Flavia, people just have to go. It was father’s time,” he whispered. She just cried harder. “Hush, now, it wasn’t your fault...well, at least, not entirely your fault. You didn’t know how steep and treacherous the stairs can be to a man of father’s age when you called for him.”

Now she was really going. Ibrahaim smiled subtly, watching her run - as best she could, with her bloated belly - back to her room, and that Ryansislean consort of hers. Ibrahaim - he smiled inwardly to think of himself as the only one in Effit - made the rounds of the guards, expressing his true sorrow at the passing of his father, who was such a great man.

Returning at last to the Sedes Religiosa, Ibrahaim sat down stiffly, for the first time ever. He had always wanted to try out the stiff backed chair, but father - or rather, he was the Pater now - wouldn’t hear of it. The oversized throne was actually somewhat uncomfortable, he thought. But power needed nothing but itself. Flexing his fingers in preparation for the plans he was about to unleash, the new Holy Emperor turned to Claudius Tullius, advisor to the Holy Emperor - and conspirator in his spare time. I shall need to remove him thought Ibrahaim. Ambition is not a trait I admire in my underlings.

For now, however, Cladius would need to be an able helper. After all, the populace - not to mention the Senate - would question another disappearance so soon after the first in the Castellum Sacrosanctum.

“Cladius, I must be coronated. I wish for you to arrange this. I wish for the High King James III of Iansisle to be there.”

“Sire?” asked the incredulous advisor. Surely the Holy Emperor knew what a scandal inviting the crowned head of the Commonwealth to an official state function would cause?

“Do not bother to understand,” waved Ibrahaim airily. He looked across the regal chamber, his eyes falling on the massive map of Tilsitia across the room. It was old - from 1913, if he remembered correctly. The Empire of Ryansisle was at its low ebb, Healdsburg was a mere province to the south, and the Commonwealth was still listed as ‘the Iansislean Empire of the Bay’. His keen eyes picked up the tiny dot that was North Matteton - then just a small dot in the sea of Effitian territory. “And arrange a secret transport for Andrew D’Analia and his family. I don’t even want the Healdsburgians to know.”

(That's about the best topic title ever. Uhm, and ooh, that Filius! (erm I'll make this post into something more worthwhile if and when I get better aquainted with the implications))

(ooc: Yes, I believe that some background information would be in order. First off, Ryansisle, Effit, and Healdsburg are all (in case you couldn't tell ;) ) puppets of mine. I don't use them cumulatively - they are there to create RP possibilities, such as this one (that's just a general statement, not at all directed at you, W.o.S. Call it a disclaimer.).

Second, some geography: Iansisle is located in the north-west corner of the continent of Tilsitia. Effit is a sprawling mass to the north-east, Ryansisle a compact military state to the south-west, and Healdsburg a sham communism to the south-east. Healdsburg has a long 'finger' of land extending from its traditional boundaries to the Iansislean border. This strip - the 'Heldian Arm' - was agreed to in 1954 by Effit and Ryansisle as a way to reduce military conflicts between their nations, and includes North Matteton.

Third, some history and politics: More or less everyone hates each other. Iansisle sees Effit as a corrupt power-hungry state of war-mongerers, Healdsburg as a group of scheming communist dogs, and Ryansisle as a danger to world peace. Effit sees everyone as infidels, especially the Iansisleans. They are also jealous Iansisle conquered Gadsan before they had the chance. Healdsburg sees everyone as dangers to the 'revolution' - or at least to their power. Ryansisle sees Iansisle as economic competition that must be eliminated, Healdsburg as a bunch of hypocritical propaganders, and Effit as their chief rival militarily.

Sixteen years ago, Ibrahaim XVII (the dead guy) tried to invade Gadsan down the Jaizar river valley. It was met by regular Iansislean units south of Safe Harbor, and drove them back foot by bloody foot to the gates of Lakeriverwood. However, the Royal Iansislean Navy quickly gained the upper hand on the high seas and helped a secret landing on the north coast of Effit. The Expeditionary Force marched to Veritas, forcing Ibrahaim XVII to sign a peace treaty at gun point. The conflict is usually called the "Effitian Invasion", and the treaty "True Peace".

"True Peace" called for the complete disbandment of the Effitian Navy, the limitation of the Effitian legions, and other humiliating measures. The Effitians have been looking for revenge for years, but Ibrahaim XVII's failing health prevented active intervention in the Second Iansislean Civil War last year.

*whew!*)

(woah...did I just imagine a post by WoS?)

Edit: Wait a second, there it is! Egads!

Edit again: Wonky's a good way of putting it. The haircut part was classic, by the way ;)

Another Edit: Oh, in case anyone is wondering, Ibrahaim is putting out a general invite to this coronation. Feel free to attend - I should have the actual invitations written out...some time.

(Ah, very helpful, ta. It's all rather interesting, actually, and Good Old King Godfrey was heard to remark "Couldn't we get some more ineresting neighbours? Why don't we install a puppet in Ireland?".

Mainwaring spilled his tea when he read reports of stock brokers and entrepeneurs trying to cash in their Pounds in the PR Healdsburg, and I myself went to find out when the hairdressers opens this morning (I did not ask for a party anywhere near my back, damn it!)


(Hehe, nope, sorry about that, everything went...wonky for a moment)

Dun Adien Castle - the Honeycomb
Ianapalis, Iansisle, the Commonwealth

“I’ve been invited where, Quinton?!”

“The Holy Empire of Effit, sire,” came the butler’s tired response. James had already asked him to repeat it twice.

“Ye gods,” muttered the young High King, slumping back in his chair. “When was the last time an Iansislean High King was invited to an Effitian state function?”

“Never, sire. High King Ian VI was the last member of the Iansislean nobility to visit Effit, and that was for the True Peace conference.”

James nodded. “I see. What makes this Ibrahaim...what, the nineteenth?”

“Eighteenth, sire.”

“Yes, and what makes this Ibrahaim XVIII so eager for my attendance?”

“Well, sire, Effit has extended invitations to Ryansisle and Healdsburg...I hear, on good information from the Foreign Affairs Ministry, that Premiere Musil, for one, will be in attendance. Ibrahaim says that the feuds between our nations -” Quinton looked at the invitation “ - and I quote: ‘has cost Tilsitia far too much of its youth already. Gentlemen, let us sow the seeds of peace on the dawn of a new administration in Effit’.”

James rubbed his face, turning the frightened gestured into the interested stroking of his chin. “Dare I ask if K.I.G. men will be allowed?”

“It doesn’t say, m’liege. I suppose they will be - with ceremonial weapons. The Effitians are known for safety, if not freedom.”

“Safety from the starving common-folk, mayhap. I don’t know about safety from the administration.

“Still, the spirit of my reign thus far has been peace,” sighed James, standing so he could pace. “I’d be foolish to turn down what may be the greatest opportunity in Iansislean history - Imagine, an Iansislean High King invited to the Castellum Sacrosanctum!”

“Astounding, to be sure, sire,” agreed Quinton, in a somewhat detached manner. "Shall I have the Duchess Elizabeth or Ms. Chaffin accompany you?”

“Dear god, Quinton, by all that is holy, no! I don’t mind risking myself, but if anything ever happened to Lizzie or Christin...” James left the thought unfinished, because he was shaking in the eerie golden light cast by the Honeycomb.
_______________________________

An invitation to All Nations
From the Holy Emperor Ibrahaim XVIII of Effit

Dearest honorable world leaders,

Many of you probably know already of the passing of Ibrahaim XVII, my father and honorable Pater of Effit.

To celebrate the ushering in of what I hope is a new era in the Commonwealth, I shall be holding a coronation celebration at the Castellum Sacrosanctum, in Veritas, in one weeks time. In addition to the festivities, I shall be discussing peace terms for all Tilsitian powers - a lasting peace, I hope.

Effit is a new country. Gone are the days of holy war and crusades - in are the days of understanding and peace. Please help me to celebrate the dawn of a fresh outlook.

Good day, and God Bless,

Ibrahaim XVIII
Holy Emperor and Pater of Effit.

Dear Holy Emperor Ibrahaim XVIII of Effit,

The nation of Agrigento graciously accepts your invitation. We accept this invitation with high hopes about the future of your nation and whole of Tilsitia. In the interests of peace and future cooperation we will send the honorable Ambassador Roberto DiPartenza, Agrigentian Representative to the ANH and expert on the affairs in Tilsitia. We shall make arrangements for his departure immediately.

Mario Corleone
President of Agrigento

P.S. I send my personal condolences for the passing of your father.

Great Walmington

An over tired Prime Minister responds to his deputy's intrusion on forty stolen winks.

"What the devil's an efit?"
"Effit, sir." Wilson informed the PM "The nation.. Near Iansisle.."
"Ah, I see. Why can't you speak properly, man? Well, I can't possibly go.."
"..Of course not, Prime Minister.."
"..Can I?"
"I'm afraid I don't seem to know, Prime Minister."
"Not now, anyway. But we'd do well to make friends these days, Wilson. Who can we spare?"
"Spare, Prime Minister?"
"Yes yes, we'll send a top ranking minister, or a general or somebody! What about Le Mesurier?"
"I'm afraid Sir John's rather tied up in Norbray at the moment, Prime Minister."
"Mh. No..no.." Mainwaring ticked of a mental checklist of dignitaries, cabinate ministers, military chiefs, and knights.

"So we'll ask them to accept Sir Arnold."
"Yes sir. Arnold Ridley, his majesty's knight of the empire, Tory government minister for..health. I'm sure they'll be delighted."

The poor old fellow will probably have a heart attack on the plane Wilson thought. Still, he was knighted, and bore a striking resemblence to the king. Provided they don't think he's a cheap tribute act we should be alright.

The Deputy PM arranged for a telegram to be sent accepting the invitation on Sir Arnold's behalf, and extending the empire's sympathies.

Alisa sat behind the large desk, brushing her deep red hair out of her eyes. This sucks, she though silently. She really didnt like being the President, but, as she had always been tought, shit happens. The assasination, the literal war between the ICI and INSA, her insertion as President, it had all happened so fast, within the time period of a few days. She was working on some new legislation when the note hit her desk.

A political invite, my first, she though. She could use the break, and wouldnt mind getting out of the new capital of Imitora, Los Agrias (OOC: Because all the pictures I plan to use sometime later on have 'LAPD', I need an LA town...). She quickly dialed up her foreing affairs minister, and told him that she was off to some place called Effit, and to ring up the usual security detail.


-+-

Hoot hit the mat with a hard thud. The sweat glistend off his body, mixed with a bit off blood. His upper chest and arms and back were now covered with tribal style tattoos. "Christ dude, that friggen hurt," he said, rolling to the side, pooping back up onto his feet. He threw a quick left hook at his opponent, his fist ungloved, his knuckles only wrapped with athletic tape.

Robert stepped back, sliding away from the hook, and countered with a sift jab into Hoot's exposed Jaw, droppiong him again. "THats two, next time you go down its 200 bucks," he said, dancing side to side, moving constantly. Like Hoot, he two now had a large share of tattoos, but in the Celtic style, and not as many of them. His next punch was a vicsious hook, that sent Hoot flying back to the ground. He extended his hand, and pulled the man up. "Two hundred," he said, jokeningly.

Before Hoot could reply, the Nokia sitting on a table in the large gym vibrated and rang. Hoot answered it, and replied with a simple, "OK." He hung up, and looked at RObert. "Looks like were heading off to Effit."

“Dear god, Quinton, by all that is holy, no! I don’t mind risking myself, but if anything ever happened to Lizzie or Christin...” James left the thought unfinished, because he was shaking in the eerie golden light cast by the Honeycomb.

OOC: Well, if you cant trust Jet Li, I mean, John Ngyuen, then who can you trust? :lol:

Castellum Sacrosanctum
Veritas, Effit

“Responses to the invitation, sire,” spoke Claudius, walking closer to the throne. Ibrahaim was starting to notice that Claudius always spoke in a low voice, perhaps to come nearer to the throne than was allowed. Ibrahaim refused to ask for clarification, instead straining his ears to pick up the faint words. Claudius seemed disappointed. “Good news, my Pater.”

“Oh?”

“Yes, sire. Iansisle has accepted - James III will travel to Veritas, along with Premiere Musil and Emperor Ramírez Arroyo. Some other non-Tilsitian ambassadors have agreed to come. Er, all put in a request for very heavy security forces.”

“They don’t trust me?”

“It would appear not, my Pater.”

“Good for them. Good for them. Claudius! I want a reception prepared at the Veritas Aerodock - flags out, people smiling and waving.”

“Our flag, or that of the arriving country, sire?”

“The arriving country, numskull. And - “

“My Pater, you are aware that certain country’s that are arriving use profane symbols as their nation’s banner?”

“Yes, Iansisle and...er, the Walmingtonians - whoever they are. What of it?”

“The people would be loath to wave sacrilegious standards, my Pater.”

“Then leave the people out of it. Use soldiers from the local garrison, then. If they refuse, execute them in public, for undermining the state. Now go! There are preparations to be made!”

“Yes, my Pater,” replied Claudius, bowing in a slightly more surly manner than was normal.

Ibrahaim narrowed his eyes. “And send a response to the nations who have responded! You know the style!”

Robert wore a casuall suit as he stood in front of the wheel of the Biz Jet. He looked out across the runway, and popped his neck. He was satisfied with the secuirtiy as the non descript motorcade of black Fords pulled up next to the Jet. He watched as the President, Alisa Carter, was helped into the jet, the kevlar vest masking her near perfect figure. Colonial Marines and local police units watched the airport and runway, all armed heavily with CAR 20 assault rifles. He was the last one on the jet, Alisa had already removed the vest, and sat in a center isle, away from windows, like she had been told. Hoot was seated to her left, and Robert took a seat to his right. A full squadron, 12 aircraft, of VF-11s were already in the air in Imitoran airspace, and another squadron would escort them in. Robert wasn't goping to lose another President. He eyed Alisa, who was reading a magazine, and smiled. So far, so good.

OOC: Football calls (ugh), will be back say....8ish CST.

(dang, I'm not going to get to do much with this until I've likely missed everything of importance. Right.. assuming I can't be around for some days, our old Sir Arnold will have to suffer a bout of ill health, either at a stop over in Canada or in Effit. Whatever suits (he is a frail old gent, so it's likely))

Gurney International Flyerdock
Outside Ianapalis, Iansisle, the Commonwealth

The Flyerdock, supposedly reserved for the departure of the High King, was swarming with IanCorp reporters and curious citizens. It was all an entire company of Grenadiers could do to hold the throng of people from swarming His Majesty's Bankfield aeroflyer.

A tremendous shout of admiration went up as High King James III, surrounded by his personal squad of K.I.G. men and clad in the most regal outfit he could find, strode onto the dock itself, preparing to mount the Bankfield. Rose petals were thrown, flags were waved, and hands thrust forward for shaking as the young High King climbed to the bottom step and waved to the crowd.

"My fellow Commonwealthers! he shouted, his words carrying no farther than the first row or so of people. "I now embark on a mission to bring peace, a glorious, Iansislean peace, to the troubled continent of Tilsitia!"

A cry of joy went up from those who could hear him. Those who could not assumed they were supposed to be cheering as well, and did so. James waved to the crowd as IanCorp's moving cameras clicked, recording yet another historic moment in the young regent's career.
___________________________

Jameston Place
Ianapalis, Iansisle, the Commonwealth

Edward Tarriff, the Right Honorable Prime Minister of His Majesty's Commonwealth Combined Parliament, huffed, his giant mustache billowing out. On the screen of his moving-picture box, he could see the young High King departing on yet another mission that would have fallen to the actual head of government - himself, that is - in any of a dozen other administrations. This James didn't know it, but he was threatening everything the other James - James I, that is - had established. He flew in the face of the Tablet, ignoring the C.C.P. whenever he wanted.

And the crowds loved him. One quick flip of the hand, that million dollar smile of his, a swish of the cape, and they cheered. Tarriff, on the other hand, could not hope to swing public opinion one way or another with his looks. Even he knew it - his face was drooping, his mustache not nearly as bushy as it had once been, his hair was thinning.

People are so fickle, he thought. They don't care at all how things actually get done in Iansisle - it's always 'the High King this, the High King that'.

Of course, now James would be out of the country. Establishing friendly relations with their most nefarious enemy, to be sure, but still out of the country. Lord MacIntyre was in Dianatran for some sort of conference, Lord Javial in Galla-China touring the defensive works...The Council couldn't convene with two members absent.

A wicked grin spread across Tarriff's ugly features. Now, he thought. Now is the time....
___________________________

Over the Iansislean-Effitian border
Near Safe Harbor, Gadsan

The squadron of four MPAF-6 "Colt" aerofighters that had been escorting his Bankfield Mk. III to Effit peeled away as James watched the flyer cross into Effitian airspace. A pair of other aeroflyers, painted with an ominous black and yellow hook - the symbol of the Holy Empire - on the tail dropped into formation behind the Bankfield. James was somewhat comforted by the fact that they were prop-driven craft, as opposed to his jet powered Mark Three. If needed, the Iansislean transport could probably out run them.

But if they needed to start running, then much was wrong. He had no reason to doubt Ibrahaim...did he?
___________________________

(WoS - too bad. He could layover in Ianapalis, to be close to RSU medical care (which, thanks to our Celebornian...I think that's the proper adjective...friends, is rather advanced), and close to the action should you get back in time.

Imitora and Agrigento - feel free to RP your own entrances if you want. All flyers will be met with an Effitian radio broadcast, instructing them to Veritas and informing them a pair of Effitian fighters will escort them in. In Veritas, they will be met by a cheering crowd of people waving flags, and a brass band will strike up the anthem of the arrival. After some fanfare, a low-ranking government employee will escort them to a motorcade, and drive them to a fancy hotel. Once everyone's arrived, we can start the festivities. Oh, and don't worry - there won't be any direct mortal danger to main characters, unless you want there to be. They may be detained for short periods of time, but will not be harmed, and will be released in good order.

Oh, and in case anyone cares, ‘Effitian’ is pronounced eff-EE-shan, sort of like ‘Phoenician’)

OOC: Holding Robert and Hoot.... :twisted:

IC:

On board teh biz jet, which had been on the ground for a few minutes, things were calm, yet hectic at the same time. Robert stood by a key pad, and, upon the plane stopping, he turned, and punched in a few numbers. A small cammera took a retinal scan, and a hifdden wall panel slid open. He remved from it several CAR 20 Assault rifles, handing tehm to the Imitoran Secret Service men on the aircraft. The ironic part was that he wasnt ISS, or INSA for that matter. He had gotten out of that part of teh government after the incident, and was now, under the name Robert Fortier, with a full new background, a member of the Los Agrias Police Department SWAT team. He did Presidential Security as a side job.

OOC2: I'm gonna go grab a shower, I'll RP out the rest later.

Robert was the first off the plane, his rifle slung low across his chest. He watched the crowds carefully, eyeing everyone up. Especially the man approaching the group. He followed the man from behind his sunglasses, not turning his head. It was some random governmnet worker, not of any major importnace, like the secretary of the interior or somoething of the like. After a bit of small talk, he lead the small group of Hoot, ALisa, and Robert to the motorcade, assisting them in to the vehicles, and driving them towards the hotel where they would stay.

The transition from Airport to car was easy for Roberto, he had one body guard with him and he felt rather safe. The recent Terrorist Attacks in Agrigento kept his mind occupied during the flight and now that the felt the cold air around him he felt revitalized. The Car was small compared to the cabin on his Boeing Business Jet, but he felt comfortable enough inside of it. He turned to the his government chaperone and said, "Well this seems like a pleasant country."

The transition from airplane to car was easy for Roberto, he had one body guard with him and he felt rather safe. The recent Terrorist Attacks in Agrigento kept his mind occupied during the flight and now that the felt the cold air around him he felt revitalized. The Car was small compared to the cabin on his Boeing Business Jet, but he felt comfortable enough inside of it. He turned to the his government chaperone and said, "Well this seems like a pleasant country."

Sacred Landing
Veritas, Effit

Dominus Marcus Flavius Porsinna looked down his long nose at the new Imitoran arrivals. Wading through the crowd, which parted for him in a military fashion, he hailed them, closed hand to his breast.

“Welcome to Effit,” he managed, his English somewhat strained. It was clear that Effitians were used to other languages. “This way, please.” He gestured down the path, to a waiting group of motor cars. Armed guards were everywhere, as were the Imitoran and Effitian flags.

Marcus Flavius didn’t speak much as the Iansislean-made Jackrabbit IV bumped its way to the hotel. People lined the streets, waving the Agrigentian flag by mistake. The Dominus cursed under his breath. Heads would roll for that slip up, and he hopped his wouldn’t be one of them.

After a car ride in uncomfortable silence, they reached the hotel. Marcus Flavius waved them to the door. “I wouldn’t adwise going to the streets after sun-down. It can be dangerous.”

With a curt nod, he released the Imitorans to a handful of guards, and returned to the airport to greet the Agrigentians - he hoped the idiots along the street would keep the proper flag out.

"I think we can handle ourselves," Hoot replied, gruffly. He helped Alisa out of the Jackrabbit, and led her into the large hotel, Robert flanking her closely. He approached the front desk, requesting the room information in the luxurious hotel.

Inside the hotel itself, there wasn't nearly so noticeable a military-police presence. The guards were still there - just better hidden.

The lobby itself was very impressive, soaring ten stories to a skylight. Marble columns supported the roof, scenes from Effitian history carved into them. Outside the vast picture windows, the Castellum Sacrosanctum was perfectly framed.

To non-Effitians, Veritas must have seemed a very low city, considering its listed population of six million. The educated outlander might even know that the state-mandated highest building in Veritas couldn't be more than one hundred and fifty feet tall, so as not to interfere with the soaring, three hundred foot tall tower on the north-east corner of the Castellum Sacrosanctum.

At the desk, the Imitorans were met with an icy stare. The receptionist - he wore no nametag - knew it would be his neck (ooc- very literally) if the Imitorans so much as complained about anything during their visit. Regardless, Effitians were brought up from youth to know all outlanders as evil, vile infidels who refused to see the light of the Pater.

Silently, not wishing to speak lest he be infected, the receptionist slid a card across the desk, the letters 'CDXLVIII' etched on to it.

Robert took the card with the room number on it, wishing he remebered his Latin Numbers. He smiled at the desk clerk, nodding, and turned to Hoot and Alisa. "Here," he said, handing her the room number. She looked at the number quizically, then started walking in the direction of a hotel room map.

The map indicated room 'CDXLVIII' (448) as being on the fourth floor. There was no elevator on the floorplan, but a large, grandly decorated staircase rose from the back of the lobby to every floor.

Effitian security guards watched their every step in silence.

(I'm just waiting for Ag to reply before bringing James in. Sorry if it's a bit slow.)

OOC: No prob...

Robert took the bags, and headed for the proper floor, Alisa in between him and Hoot. His eyes darted around the rooms and hallways, watching out for any possible threats as he lead the group to the room.

(ooc: Sorry, I didnt realize my car had arrived at the hotel)

Roberto walked delibertly slow on his way to the front desk, trying to take in all of the scenery at once. He had always loved architecture and would often visit the Remian Ruins and Medieval Castles with his uncle back in Varisca, when he was a child. Looking around the lobby the past seemed to come alive and history, another one of his great passions. It was fused in with the Architecture, via Murals depicting scenes from long ago, as well as other forms of artwork. The Hotel was a paradise to him and has he finally reached the front desk he made a promise to himself to return to the lobby and spend some time just looking around before after he got settled in his room.

His Bodyguard, on the other hand, was getting quite annoyed with his assignment, Why won't this old man move any faster? Is he trying to make himself an easier target??

(oh, don't worry about it ;) I'm just assuming that everyone gets the same treatment, with the flags changing out. Effit's more likely to welcome one who looks Italian than other outlanders, but I wouldn't expect it to be warm or friendly)

The receptionist considered Roberto, his eyes somewhat less harsh than they had been for the Imitorans. There may even have been a flash of a welcoming nod as he slid a key envelope across the table, labeled 'CCLXIV' (264).

Upstairs, guards continued to watch Robert and the other Imitoran's every move, but made no moves to interfere with them. The room they had been assigned was spacious, large, and decorated Spartanly. A simple, leather sofa occupied one corner of the main room, a large mural of Ibrahaim I the wall opposite the door, and three separate rooms - each perhaps eight by eight feet - held a closet and a single bed. In the corner of every room - even the watercloset - a motion picture camera was perched, silently clicking the scene.

Back at the airport, somewhat of a hubbub was caused as the flyers from Ryansisle and Iansisle arrived at the same time. The 'crowd' argued about what flag the Holy Emperor would want them to wave - it was decided that the white-and-green dragon of Ryansisle would be more appropriate than the profane red-and-white Cross of St. Patrick.

James descended the stairs to be met by Emperor Héctor Ramírez Arroyo, regent of Ryansisle. There was little love lost between the two monarchs as they nodded curtly among the sea of green and white. Dominus Marcus Flavius Porsinna soon arrived, and ushered the two - along with Weathers, Princeton, Severson, Lawrence, and the Ryansislean security forces - into a waiting stretch Jackrabbit IV.

James was surprised by the vehicle choice - he had expected the arrogant Effitians to provide some flimsy, shim-sham mode of native transportation. The stretch had enough room to fit all the security forces, surprisingly. Outside the window, the crowd along the streets still waved the green-white-and-red of Agrigento. Marcus Flavius winced.

Roberto walked up the stairs to his room, just as slowly as before. Now his new interest was the staircase itself. It was beautifully detailed and decorated. Hmm, Let's hope this Ibrahaim is serious about peace, this way I can visit again, he joked to himself. He knew the consequences would be far worse than the missing out on sightseeing if war broke out between Iansisle and the Effitians. He reached its room, and opened the door. What he saw on the otherside was yet another marvel to his eyes. He was indeed in paradise. It reminded him so deeply of all he had seen and learned about Ancient Remus. Roberto, get a hold of yourself, now is not the time for boyhood fantasies, he thought, drawing his attention to the ver much annoyed bodyguard. "Well I suggest we unpack", he said.

Robert looked through the room, not to deeply. He looked at a mirror for a long period, Hoot lookin into the mirror as well. After a minute or two, Robert noded, and moved through the rooms, tossing a blanket over the camera in the bathroom. With little effort, he and Hoot, had moved two chairs into the main bed room, and, standing so that the cammera couldnt see what they were doing, each opened a small compartment on teh bottom of the suit case, pulling out a Kimber Custom II, and holstering it quickly, hoping the cammera wouldnt pick it up. Robert sat down in one of the chairs, waiting for a call or somethign that would give them the schedule for the next few days.

(even the motion picture cameras? ;) )

The room assigned to the Agrigentans was somewhat better decorated than that of the Imitorans - a few flowers were perched upon a table in one corner, though the couch and beds remained the same. Instead of a portrait of Ibrahaim I, there was a depection of the First Battle of the Upper Jaizar, fought against the then-powerful native tribe that would be crushed beneath the might of Effitian arms. Again, motion picture cameras clicked up in the corners.

In the lobby, James and Ramírez Arroyo walked up to the same stoic receptionist. The Ryansislean looked about to put up a fuss when James recieved a room on the first floor, but refrained. Instead, he put on a friendly grin - albeit a forced one.

"King Yames, my friend - I think that relations between our nations has become rather unfriendly of late. I'd much like to change that - will you come with me to the bar, to drink to a Tilsitian peace?"

James considered the Emperor, before nodding slowly. He handed the keys to Severson, instructing him and Weathers to run up to the room. Ramírez Arroyo smiled, brilliant white teeth illuminating his darker features.

"I'll buy the first round Emperor," offered James, reaching for his coinpurse.

"No!" insisted Ramírez Arroyo, making a motion as if to stop him. Princeton and Lawrence had their staffs at the ready in a second. The Ryansislean guards were also at arms in a split second, their curved swords flashing. Around them, a dozen hidden Effitian guards brought rifles to bear. Ramírez Arroyo smiled again. "I see this conference is off to a start bueno," he laughed. Slowly, hesitantly, all stood down.

Roberto looked at one of the cameras in his room and smiled. So far he was enjoying his stay immensely. Something he could not have foreseen on the airplane ride over. For the entire trip he dreaded coming to this place, but of course his duty to his country far out-weighed his want to stay home. He had been given a choice, although it wasn't much of one. Either attend this little parlay or be removed from his post as Representative to the ANH and also run the risk losing his position as a Presidential Advisor. He chose the former, and up until now he was wondering if that was the right decision. Currently however, after seeing the historic grandieur of this almost pristine city, he was jubilant that he embarked on this journey in the first place. He could not help but smile despite being sure that his bodyguard thought him a lunatic.

(and to bed I go, goodnight all.)

Marovich Gov't Building
Tripoli, Southern Oglethorpia

"Sir, it seems we've recieved an invitation to a reception hosted by Ibrahaim XVIII of Effit," the young-secretary spoke to Prime Minister Sam Hedland. "I won't be able to attend, wot with parliamentary duties and such," Hedland said.

"Will we be sending anyone to represent us?"

"Hmmm, let's see...how about Mr. Bolton and Mr. Baker?"

"I thought those two hated each other.

"Well, it'll be a chance for them to bond."

"But-"

"Just do it. If you would, write up a response to mister Ibrahaim Eye-Eye-Vee-X-X."

"Ibrahaim Eighteen, sir."

"Right. Paul Baker and Charles Bolton."

"Right."

To: Ibrahaim XVIII
From: (nameless secretary)

We would be glad to attend. On behalf of the Oglethorpian government, we will be sending Information Minister Paul Baker and Intelligence Minister Charles Bolton. I hope sending them over by boat shouldn't be a problem.

5 minutes later...

"Wot the hell? Who the devil sent me with that Baker-wanker to Effitafit?" an angry Charles Bolton said.

"Sir, calm down," the secretary said.

"Look, I ain't bloody goin' with that tosser Paul whatchamacallit. Especially on a boat."

"Well, the Prime Minister thinks-"

"Augh. Fine," Bolton said leaving the building.

"I'm going out for a smoke," he said angrily.

To: Proper Department, Oglethorpian Government
From: Horatius Claudius Tullius, Minister of Ibrahaim XVIII

We would be honored to recieve Mr. Baker and Mr. Boulton. His Reverence has informed me that the port-city of Domverus, on the northern coast, will be able to handle your ship. Rail transportation will be provided south to Veritas.

In humble service of the Pater,

Horatius Claudius
________________________________________

The Hotel
Veritas, Effit

James smiled as well, though not as readily as his counterpart. Out of the corner of his eyes, he could see door opening along the upper levels, curious as to what was happening in the lobby. Where an Effitian head popped out, the burly hotel guards were quick to slam them back shut, probably handing out a bloody nose here and there. However, there were a few foreign diplomats as well...James' eyes narrowed.

That better not be who I think it is...
_________________________________________

(ooc: Oglethorpia, feel free to procede as if you left at the appropriate time, and are arriving at the same time as everyone else. Assume that the Effitian officials were (nearly) silent and (almost) unhelpful, the commoners ran behind closed doors and slammed window panes, and that military men waved the Oglethorpian flag every step of the way, except for the final street to the hotel, where it was still the Agrigentian flag.

Everyone else, I'd like to have a little roundtable discussion in the bar - your diplomats should have heard the commotion. You'll meet Ibrahaim IC tonight, at the formal dinner, and the conference will start IC tomorrow.)

OOC: Got it. RPing every step of the way could get tiresome :wink:

Bolton exited the train and stopped Baker. "Okay Baker, let's get one thing straight. We don't like each other. So keep your crap to yourself and maybe no one will see how much of a wanker I think you are," he said angrily.

"Fine," Baker replied. He had tried explaining the "Charlie Bolton is gay" incident several times but he'd have none of it. The rest of the travel up to the Castellum Sacrosanctum was completely silent.

Robert placed a hand on Alisa's shoulder as she walked towards the door. "Hold on a second," he said, checking the room one more time. When he was positive it was ok, he opened the door for her, allowing her to walk out, and he flanked her closely, heading towards the lobby. The Kimber .45 sat on the dressing table, Robert's casuall dress of a royal blue polo shirt and kahaki pants didnt permit him to carry a bulky weapon concelled well. The polo was a half size to small on his arms, and part of the tattoo on his right bicep, his personal favorite, could be seen just below the shirt line. They walked briskly to lobby, looking for familiar faces.

Roberto was in his own world while staring at a painting in his room. It appeared to be of a great battle between a conquering army and a primitive native one. The detail was very rich and the quality was stupendous.

His bodyguard however was fully aware of his surrounding and heard the comotion from downstairs. He opened the door to the room and peered outside. Most of the other guests were also going to out to look and he saw the Imitorans heading downstairs. Hmm...bodyguards and dignitaries, this could be important., he thought to himself. He went over to Roberto and roused his attention with a simple nudge.

The bodyguard, annoyed as usual with his assignments strange behavior explained what he saw outside in less than vivid details. They decided to head downstairs as well and soon were down the stairs and in the lobby.

Hmmm...not to many familiar faces, Robert thought his eyes scouring the lobby. Alisa spotted Roberto, however, and headed over to him, waving.

"Roberto! Over here," she said, waving trying to cath his attention.

OOC: If Your wondering what happned after Roberto and ALisa were cought, they were thrown into a fairly spacious (the size of a small aircraft hanger) along with Hoot and Robert. She developed a bit of a crush on Robert, and on a daily basis Hoot and Robert got the piss beat out of them by gaurds. Its kinda like that one part from the movie the Recruit where Collin Ferell gets cought.

Roberto, this time not too caught up in the scenery, probably because of the mass of people walking about and distorting his view, heard Alisa shouting. He turned and saw her familiar face and her hands flailing about in the air. He walked quickly over to her.

"Ah, Alisa, I am glad to see a familar face here.", he said not yet noticing Hoot and Robert. He glance to his left and saw a glimpse of their familar faces in the corner of his eye. "Ah Robert and you...Mr....Hat, you have made it hear too I see.", he said struggling to recollect the man's name.

ooc: Actually I was wondering, thanks.

Alisa hugged Roberto. "Its so good to see you, how are you doing?" she asked enthusiasticlly. Robert looked over at him and simply nodded, Hoot's eyes scanning the crowd, hardly even acknowledging the man. "So," continued Alisa, "any idea what this is all about?"

I say again, damn server

Aw, hell. It is. And this isn’t even my country - I can’t forbid Hoot to ever set foot in Effit.

“Something wrong, your ‘majesty’?” asked Ramírez Arroyo, following James’ eyes. “Ah, your all-powerful non-Tilsitian friends. How nice of them to join us.” Ramírez Arroyo found him in the dead stare of Weathers, who he nodded to. “Private, a pleasure to see you as well.”

“Emperor,” started James, “we may not like each other - our countries may not like one another, but I feel that, in the interest of peace, it may be well to pretend that we do.”

The Ryansislean bowed, in a somewhat condescending manner, and grinned again. “But of course, Highness. We wouldn’t want anything to interfere with this historic opportunity.”

“Thank you” replied James in a forceful tone. I’m glad to see even Ryansisleans can crawl out of their putrid caves and act civilized once in a while, he added silently. “If you’ll excuse me, there’s some people I’d like to greet.”

“I don’t think so, Shieldian,” said the Emperor, his joking tone turning ice cold. “The Empire has commitments in Tilsitia too, in case you have forgotten.”

“I forget little, Héctor,” returned James, his voice matching the Ryansislean’s tone. “Insults least of all.” With that, he turned to the Imitorans and Agrigentians. “Roberto; Madame President! How nice to see the two of you again!” He added no greeting to Robert, and refused to make eye contact with Hoot. Emperor Ramírez Arroyo came up just behind James, obviously trying to catch the others’ eyes.

Across the lobby, the door swung open, admitting two Oglethorpians, who were met with the receptionist’s usual silent, icy stare.

Baker looked at the receptionist as he walked by. Wonder what that guy's problem was, he said to himself.

Alisa hugged Roberto. "Its so good to see you, how are you doing?" she asked enthusiasticlly. Robert looked over at him and simply nodded, Hoot's eyes scanning the crowd, hardly even acknowledging the man. "So," continued Alisa, "any idea what this is all about?"

"I'm doing very well, I honestly am enjoying myself here.", Roberto's face turned from his joyous smile to a more serious professional expression. "I have no clue, my bodyguard heard a comotion and hear I am", he finished.

The Ryansislean Emperor, somewhat disappointed by James' familiar and easy discussion with the Imitorans and Agrigentans, saw an opportunity in the Oglethorpians.

Swirling his cape behind him, the forty-year-old bowed deeply to them. "Greetings, most honored gentlemen. I am Héctor Ramírez Arroyo, Emperor of Ryansisle and Guardian of the Golden Quarry."

"Hello, Emperor Arroyo," Paul Baker said, offering his hand to the Emperor. (OOC: They shook hands, we're assuming :wink:) "I am Information Minister Paul Baker of Oglethorpia, and this is Char-" Bolton cut him off. "Charles Bolton, Minister of Intelligence. Pleased to make your acquintance," he said.

"Oh, hello King," she paused as Hoot mouthed 'James'. "James. Its a pleasure to see you again. How are things in Iansisle?" she asked, offering her hand to him. Robert watched as Weathers and a few other KIG men approached, following the king. They could have been fellow Imitorans for all he cared, he approached, and stood to the left, slightly behind her, his eyes trailing over all of them, waiting for a sudden move. Hoot, standing behind the group, did the same.

OOC: Football time, ugh, I'll be back on a little after 9:30, CST.

"I notice you gentlemen are somewhat...lacking in protection," observed Emperor Ramírez Arroyo (nitpick time - in Spanish custom, the surname of both father and mother is taken. Ramírez is the father's name, and Arroyo the mother's. No offense meant - it's a fairly obscure cultural tradition ;)) "Perhaps you would like some assistance from my men? In the past, we have found the Effitians to be somewhat...untrustworthy."
__________________

"As well as could be expected," replied James, ignoring the posturing Ryansislean's efforts behind him. "Though I fear for the overseas colonies - there are far too powerful native regimes coming to power right under Iansisle's nose. How go things in Imitora?"

"I notice you gentlemen are somewhat...lacking in protection," observed Emperor Ramírez Arroyo (nitpick time - in Spanish custom, the surname of both father and mother is taken. Ramírez is the father's name, and Arroyo the mother's. No offense meant - it's a fairly obscure cultural tradition ;)) "Perhaps you would like some assistance from my men? In the past, we have found the Ryansisleans to be somewhat...untrustworthy."

"Thanks for the offer. Perhaps just have them keep an eye out. Charles is fond of the-" Baker was interrupted again. "The Colt Single-Action Army," Bolton finished, putting his hand in his pocket and confirming it's presence.

"Thanks for the offer. Perhaps just have them keep an eye out. Charles is fond of the-" Baker was interrupted again. "The Colt Single-Action Army," Bolton finished, putting his hand in his pocket and confirming it's presence.

"Trust me, Mr. Baker - they will have both eyes out." Behind him, a burly guard nodded to confirm his emperor's words. "I wonder, considering the somewhat local concerns, why Oglethorpia has chosen to send two such illustrious representitives?"

"Thanks for the offer. Perhaps just have them keep an eye out. Charles is fond of the-" Baker was interrupted again. "The Colt Single-Action Army," Bolton finished, putting his hand in his pocket and confirming it's presence.

"Trust me, Mr. Baker - they will have both eyes out." Behind him, a burly guard nodded to confirm his emperor's words. "I wonder, considering the somewhat local concerns, why Oglethorpia has chosen to send two such illustrious representitives?"

"Well, sir, Foreign Minister Gordon Newell is away in the nation of Clangerland. The Prime Minister, Sam Hedland is attending to duties in the country right now and a group of angry Belmorian citizens are rioting, thus tying up the Minister of Community Andrew Kreins," Baker said.

"Which I guess leaves me and the wanke- I mean, Baker here," Charles Bolton added.

"Well, sir, Foreign Minister Gordon Newell is away in the nation of Clangerland. The Prime Minister, Sam Hedland is attending to duties in the country right now and a group of angry Belmorian citizens are rioting, thus tying up the Minister of Community Andrew Kreins," Baker said.

"Which I guess leaves me and the wanke- I mean, Baker here," Charles Bolton added.

"I must say," answered the Ryansislean, nudging the Oglethorpians in the general direction of the bar, "that I am honored our humble continent should garner such attention from a great nation like Oglethorpia." Every step of the way, his voice was covered with oozing flattery. He didn't even stop to notice the wanker comment, choosing to hear only what he wanted.

"Please have a seat. The first round of drinks is on me."

"Well, sir, Foreign Minister Gordon Newell is away in the nation of Clangerland. The Prime Minister, Sam Hedland is attending to duties in the country right now and a group of angry Belmorian citizens are rioting, thus tying up the Minister of Community Andrew Kreins," Baker said.

"Which I guess leaves me and the wanke- I mean, Baker here," Charles Bolton added.

"I must say," answered the Ryansislean, nudging the Oglethorpians in the general direction of the bar, "that I am honored our humble continent should garner such attention from a great nation like Oglethorpia." Every step of the way, his voice was covered with oozing flattery. He didn't even stop to notice the wanker comment, choosing to hear only what he wanted.

"Please have a seat. The first round of drinks is on me."

"Well, thank you very much," Baker said, biting on the bait, in a slow stride along with the Ryansislean. Nothin' wrong with free drinks, Bolton thought to himself.

"Well, thank you very much," Baker said, biting on the bait, in a slow stride along with the Ryansislean. Nothin' wrong with free drinks, Bolton thought to himself.

Ramírez Arroyo smiled, accepting the drink proffered by a surly Effitian bartender. "To a better tomorrow," he toasted, sipping the (slightly bitter) Effitian vintage.

"Now, then, in the interest of that tomorrow - I wonder what sort of goods Oglethorpia trades in." The Emperor's money hungry eyes shone at the possibility of another market for Ryansislean exports.

"Well now, that's really Mr. Miller's area of expertise (Minister of Trade) but there's big demand for automobiles, uranium, timber, though that may be hurting soon here due to the recently-passed Environmental Protection Act which is calling for stringent replanting. Then you've got tourism in Southern Oglethorpia, and the book production industry is going pretty steady," Baker said, pausing to take a drink.

"'Environmental Protection'?" asked Ramírez Arroyo, his dark eyes twinkling. "One of the times I find it most convenient not to have to listen to a group of gibbering, power-mad fools." He laughed, only slightly aware that they may not find the environment quite as inconvenient as he did.

Ramírez Arroyo started to steer the conversation away from politics, asking about the men's personal lives, joking - to the best of his ability - with them, while James continued to talk with the Imitorans and Roberto.

After some time, a Effitian - as large and solidly built as the others they had encountered - stood in the doorway. He said nothing, just keeping a silent watch over the group.

"Do you know that fellow?" Bolton decided to ask, looking at the large man in the doorway.

OOC: Hmmm, well if Arroyo's done then i'll have the delegation bid him adeau and move on :wink:

"Do you know that fellow?" Bolton decided to ask, looking at the large man in the doorway.

"Can't say I do," replied Ramírez Arroyo, looking at the man. The Effitian was making everyone in the room uncomfortable, that was for sure. "I'll ask him what he wants."

The Ryansislean Emperor walked towards the man, checking over his shoulder to see if his bodyguards were still there. Reassured, he walked up to the large, broad-shouldered man.

"Can we help y-"

Before Ramírez Arroyo could even finish his thought, the Effitian bellowed, catching everyone's attention. "VENITE!"

"¿Qué?" asked the Emperor, quite taken aback by the volume.

"VENITE!" roared the Effitian, without showing any outward signs that he understood, or had even heard Ramírez Arroyo's question.

(ooc - yeah, sorry about tying you down to one character. Imitora's out, and Agrigento vanished, leaving James (my other main character) somewhat tied up. If you want, you can interact some with his bodyguards, who tend to be helpful and friendly. Oh, and this is the official invitation to dinner, by the way ;))

OOC: No problem. There'll be some openings sooner or later.

IC: Bolton would've said "shut up you bloody prat" had the Effitian not been so large.

The large Effitian seemed annoyed. He turned and stalked down the hall a few paces, before turning and shouting "VENITE!" again.

Back at the bar, the somewhat shocked bodyguards, heads of state, and ambassadors looked around at one another, everyone of them waiting for someone else to make the first movement.

Bolton turned to Baker, and under his breath said "someone should've offered him a beer. Maybe that's all he wanted."

Outside the room, the large Effitian called a guard over. They chattered for a moment in latin, before waving over yet another guard. Following some further argument, and what looked suspiciously like a threat from the big one, the third guard walked over.

"Sell," he said, in very accented English. "Soup-pear ready est."

"Not sure what that's all about," Baker replied to Bolton. "I do think we ought to move on in the meeting and greeting ceremony, though."

Alisa smiled broadly. "Things are good, alot better. We moved the capital, and ever since the incident, moral has gone up. Slowly, but it has. Except for you know who," she whispered the last part, her eyes sliding over to Robert. It was actually more or less her eyes sliding over Robert, as if she was checking him out. She turned back to James. "But enough about that. Lets talk about happier things," she said, ending with her signature smile.

OOC: Well, i'm just waiting for stuff to happen :wink:

OOC: Well, i'm just waiting for stuff to happen :wink:

Word

ooc1: Sorry, I was down at the beach looking at Mars with my sister's telescope. Bit too cloudy for my liking but we did manage to see the Ice Caps.

ooc2: What was that guy selling? Or was he hiring someone to kill the emperor?? *Smiles, glad that he learned latin*

(ooc: heh, that's funny. I was just waiting for y'all to decide to go to dinner (or soup-pear ) or not. The translator was just a little confused ;) And my latin (or spanish, for that matter) is...poor, to say the least. Languages have never been my strong suit. So yeah. Go to dinner ;))

(ooc: heh, that's funny. I was just waiting for y'all to decide to go to dinner (or soup-pear ) or not. The translator was just a little confused ;) And my latin (or spanish, for that matter) is...poor, to say the least. Languages have never been my strong suit. So yeah. Go to dinner ;))

(ooc: Well its not that bad an alternate meaning of Venite is Come, but Latin requires some phonetics sometimes.)

(ooc: Well its not that bad an alternate meaning of Venite is Come, but Latin requires some phonetics sometimes.)

(checks phonetics...aha! That's where the hold up is! Thanks! My problem is that I want to know a little about every language, so I never really manage to master any one. I actually intended him to say 'come', then the translator to screw up and say 'sell'. Sorry ;)

So yeah...the next big plot point is dinner.)

Robert watched as the people walked to the dinning room. He interupted James and Alisa, leaning in close to her ear. "Looks like people are off to eat. Hoot'll check it out, then we can go in to." He stepped back, and continued eyeing the crowd.

(ooc: I think Agrigento could really get along with the Effitians. Latin, is still spoken in church and is mandatory in many universities. Plus, we have the whole Remian Empire history thing.)

"Ah food, I am starved", said Roberto nodding for his bodyguard to come with him to the dinning room.

(ooc: I think Agrigento could really get along with the Effitians. Latin, is still spoken in church and is mandatory in many universities. Plus, we have the whole Remian Empire history thing.)

(Well, y'know,except for Effit being a crazy, xenophobic, absolutist military dictatorship that sees all foreigners as infidels and has a tendency towards regicide...they're perfectly alike ;)

I'm just starting Latin this year, actually, and so far I love it. I've dabbled in French, Spanish, and German (and by dabble in German, I meant I've read the subtitles on German language films ;) ), and Latin's much easier for me to pick up...so far, anyway.

Anyway, I'm going to stop hijacking my own thread now and finish that dinner post.)

OCC: Well get on with it, :lol:

(ok, ok, Senior Impatianto-pantalones ;) Here.)

On the way to the Castellum Sacrosanctum
Veritas, Effit

The hotel was only a few blocks from the secular and religious nerve center of Effit. There were several private residences along the way, but not a single citizen was out on the streets, though the military and police were about in large numbers.

There were two large guards on the door, and many more doing rounds upon the ancient ramparts. As James - the first of the group - tried to enter, he was barred by the guards. The shouted something at him, and actually pushed him back a step when he tried to push forward. The K.I.G. men looked ready to throttle the Effitians, but were saved by a prim, polished Iansislean accent from the shadows.

“Don’t worry, your Majesty. They just want your weapons. I’d hand them over, if I were you.”

James strained his eyes into the shadow...where had he heard that voice before? Before he could see, the speaker vanished into the darkness. James sighed - this was too mysterious for him. Besides, he carried no weapons at all, having left his saber at home...oh.

With a grimace, he drew the emerald-hilted Sword of Ian, the traditional weapon of the Iansislean High Kings. Gripping it briefly by the rope-covered hilt, he slowly handed it over and proceeded to the abyss. Behind him, Weathers, Princeton, Lawrence and Severson very hesitantly gave up their staffs and sidearms to hurry after James.

Robert and Hoot each pulled out simple butterfly style knives, handing them to the gaurds. As they escorted an unarmed Alisa through the door, RObert looked at the larger of the two. With a near sinister grin, he spoke in his native tounge. "Titim gan éirí ort." He smiled, and followed Alisa, who followed James.

"You're kidding. You've got to be bloody kidding me. Now I have to give up my Colt Army?" Bolton said defiantly.

"Well, stay out here all night with your beloved Single Action Army while I eat," Minister of Information Paul Baker said.

"Keep damn good care of it," Bolton said handing over his 6-shooter.

Roberto was unarmed and proceeded foward while his bodyguard handed over his Beretta model 86.

The dining hall was long and poorly lit, smelling rather damp. Only one seat at the massive table was already taken, that at the far end. As the foreigners collected in the enterence way, it gestured towards the seats along the sides. James remained standing.

“You’d be the mysterious Pater, Ibrahaim XVIII?” he asked, while Weathers noticed the rather large number of Effitian guards in the room. Most seemed to be unarmed, but also the type who wouldn’t need arms.

“Yes,” replied the man. His English was also quite polished, but in a more academic way than the voice at the gate. “I am. You would be High King James III of the Grand Iansislean Empire of the Bay, no?”

“We prefer the term Commonwealth now, thank you,” replied James, still remaining standing.

“Quite,” replied the shadowy figure. “I do beg you, sire, sit down. My guards may take offense in a moment.” Weathers held out a chair for James, then tried to sit down himself. Ibrahaim coughed. “I do belive this meeting is for leaders. You may eat in the kitchen with my guards.”

Weathers - unused to being trivialized at state functions, turned a bright red. James hadn’t ever seen the Shieldian guard get angry, and didn’t think he wanted to. Fortunatly, Princeton laid a hand on the young man’s shoulder. “He’s quite right, Private. We’ll eat in the kitchen.”

(on that note, I actually have work to do (gasp and double gasp!) A few more responses tonight, then I’m off ;) )

"And us?" Robert asked, speaking in front of James outloud of rhte first time, staring daggers at Ibariam.

"And us?" Robert asked, speaking in front of James outloud of rhte first time, staring daggers at Ibariam.

"Are you a world leader, or the only representitive of your country?" asked Ibrahaim, in a careless and somewhat condescending manner.

"No, but honestly, I dont trust you or your country, so either my friend or I, stays. I'll let you pick which," he said, looking over to Hoot. Alisa simply kept her head down, wishing that either Robert would be a little less protective, although she knew he did it only because he cared and was worried, or that the events of the past few months hadn't happened, and neither of them would be in this position.

OOC: Technically, Hoot is a governmental represntative, has he is now a memeber of the ISU (Imitoran FBI), but Robert is just a SWAT cop.

"Well, guess that means we're off to the kitchen," Baker said.

"Not so fast, tosse- Paul. There's plenty of seats, no?" Bolton said in his defiant-manner.

OOC: Makes things interesting to have someone defiant about things.

"We'll comprimise - one of you may stand away from the table, where my men are. You will not get any food, however." Ibrahaim turned to the Oglethorpians. "Mr. Baker ; Mr. Boulton - I apologize. I do not wish any bodyguards at the table - as representitive of your leader, who I understand is unavailable, you are welcome to dine with us. The same goes for you, Mr. (Roberto's last name)"

"Thank you," Baker said. Bolton just stood, before Baker nudged him. "Oh, thanks."

Robert looked at Hoot. "When was the last time you ate?"

"Before the flight, had a beer and burger at the airport. You?" Hoot asked, his normally cocky tone all but gone now.

"This morning, three Bannanas, a few eggs, and a protien shake. I'll stay, I can hold my food for a while."

Hoot turned, heading towards the kitchen. Two gaurds watched him as he strolled by, and he wishe'd he had some ancient language like Robert did to tell them off. He didnt, and he simply walked past, not making eye contact.

(uf...sorry to run out like this, but I have to finish my work and study before the Dr Pepper wears off. I should be back in like an hour. Feel free to talk amongst yourselves, or whatever you'd like. Back as soon as possible!)

(ooc: DiPartenza)

"Thank you, I must say Emperor, I have enjoyed my visit and I do see bright hope between our two countries.", he said.

The Bodyguard didn't like leaving his assignment alone but had no other choice but to go eat in the kitchen.

Robert stood back in the corner, in between a few gaurds, looking them over. He went back, his eyes dartign around the room, looking over everyone. He cought himself a few times glancing over at Alisa and holding his gaze, watching as she talked to the other delegates.

OOC: Off to bed, got an early (9:25) class tommorow, so I'll talk to ya'll fools later.

ooc)If I may join in the festivities, excellent. Elsewise, just tell me to get out and I will leave peaceably :) I'll also assume my representative has already arrived, seen "her" apartment, posed in a risque manner for all of the cameras, and readied herself for dinner.
ic)
The Lady Dante Chablis was stunning as "she" walked into the dining room. At 6 foot 4 inches tall 240 pounds and wearing a simply marvelous blue evening gown sparkling with bugle-beads "she" could not be otherwise. "She" saunters across the room and kisses Ibrahaim full on the lips, "Oooh MY. You ARE a handsome one!"

(Sadwillow - you are, of course, welcome to join, but I'd suggest a course of action that doesn't end in your character being mutilated. If you try and approach the Pater, there is one warning. Touching the Pater is a sin punishable by death. If this were Iansisle, I'd say fine, and James was really shocked, etc., but this is Effit. Sorry.)

Ibrahaim nodded. "Thank you, Mr. DiPartenza. I too hope for peace, between all nations. Perhaps a membership in this 'Alliance of the New Highlands'..."

"Preposterous!" scoffed James, quite un-diplomaticly. "Out of the question - Effit has proven itself time and time again over the years to be a stinking cesspool, unworthy of trust by any civilized nation!"

"May I suggest," Ibrahaim nodded at James, "that the High King does much to damage and little to help. This is a new Effit, but change cannot occur overnight. Perhaps someday I shall win back the trust my ancestors squandered."

"Your majesty," piped up Ramírez Arroyo from the back of the room. "I must say that the Empire is somewhat confused by your sudden willingness to negotiate. It is - and I hope you'll forgive me saying so - highly unusual, given past events."

“A fair question, young Emperor,” replied Ibrahaim, his eyes watching as Premiere Musil of Healdsburg was let in the back door. “I shall answer all questions in time; at the coronation and conference tomorrow, for instance. In the mean time, I ask you only to trust me - as hard as it may be - and enjoy yourselves.”

As if on cue, servants arrived bearing large platters of steaming food. While they were dressed in the traditional uniforms of Effitians, it was easy to see from the marks on their arms that they were slaves. James recoiled slightly, though both Premiere Musil and Emperor Ramírez Arroyo found nothing unusual.

Roberto's world was shaken a little bit upon seeing the slaves. He knew in his heart of hearts that there must be slaves in this so Remian-esque country, but it had not really come to the front of his mind until now. Like the Emperor said, 'change is slow', he thought to himself over and over again, trying to keep the idolic image of this country unscaythed. To no avail, he soon realized that all he had experienced before was the realm of mere childish fantasy, and that, of all times, now was the time to be serious and mature.

"Mr. DiPartenza; High King James - is everything alright?" asked Ibrahaim, his food being delivered by an Effitian almost besides themselves with pride. "Thank you, that is all," snapped Ibrahaim from the corner of his mouth, annoyed by the bowing motion to his side. The slave turned and fled for the kitchens. Returning to the guests, he boomed in his normal voice: "I hope our dinner customs do not offend you?"

"No, emperor, it is just my eyes are not accustomed to seeing Slaves, it is no trouble."

"No, emperor, it is just my eyes are not accustomed to seeing Slaves, it is no trouble."

Ibrahaim considered that for a second. "Yes, sir, I can see where you come from. Slavery is not a part of Effitian culture I am very proud of, but it is too well intigrated into our society to be easily removed."

James held his fork out to Ibrahaim. "You know, Emperor, people can handle quite a bit of personal freedom with responsibility. Look at Iansisle. We had nothing before the Tablet, and now liberty is our only concern."

Across the table, Musil scoffed. "Freedom from the state, perhaps. Not from the corporations. One capitalist evil has been replaced by another. Only in the revolution is there true freedom." Now it was the Ryansislean's turn to scoff.

At the head of the table, Ibrahaim waved his hands downwards. "People, people - we are not here to mock each other's culture. That is the wonderful thing about Tilsitia - we are all unique, from the liberty of Iansisle to the order of Ryansisle to the equality of Healdsburg. We are united by our differences, not divided by them."

As the Effitian guards levelled their guns on "her", Chablis backpedalled and fell into a slight curtsy, "I apologise, honey. I was just so overcome by your sexiness that I momentarily lost control. It won't happen again," she bowed her head and looked at him coquetishly through her hair, "unless you want it to."
Chablis takes her seat at the table and as the slaves serve them dinner, she says to Roberto, "Child, slavery is a simply monstrous thing!"

"Actually," Alisa spoke up, somewhat quietly, hoping to not interupt anything important, "if under the right conditions, slavery is, to a slight degree, acceptable. For example, in Imitora, prisoners work as slaves, if you will. Although not on the level of house servants, they do farming, manufacture goods, and the like, without pay. Techniclly, that's slavery. Slavery based on race or religion or sex, however, is still wrong."

Alisa, as well as Robert, noted the Ryansislanian's comment. Revolution he thought to himself, allowing no emotion to be displayed. He'd keep his eye on him.

"But, I'm not here to argue political or civil freedoms, or tell you all what is wrong with your countries. I'm here to promote relations between our two nations, and this is good food," she finished, smiling.

"Oh, I definitely agree, sugar!" the Lady Chablis purred to Alisa, the look in her eye making it clear she swung both ways, "We are all here to promote peace, and make merry among our nations," she winks to Roberto.
Damn it, she thought. It was a long shot, but if I had been able to make physical contact with that patricidal git Ibrahaim this would have all been so much simpler.
The Lady gives a gleaming yet simpering smile to everyone else in the room.

Alisa offerd an uncomfortable smile to Chablis, tehn turned to Robert, offering a near, 'Get me outa here', look. She took a sip oif her wine, then went back to eating, waitng for someone to break the uneasy silence.

"I can assure you that will not happen," replied Ibrahaim to Chablis, his eyes narrowing. After his brief talk with Roberto, the Holy Emperor was ready to counter her points, when Alisa did it for him. "Quite," he agreed, "In Effit, only those who have commited a crime against the state and the cause, or have been captured in times of war are used for slaves. It really is a most convinient system. But I would not be so arrogant as to say it is better than any other system."

"I should hope not," snorted James under his breath.

"I'm sorry, your majesty, but my hearing is not as good as it once was," said Ibrahaim from the other end of the table. "What did you say?"

"Just that the food was superb," replied James, smiling as Ibrahaim seemed to accept the replacement comment. James then turned, sweeping his gaze down the table. He made eye contact with Chablis, puzzling at a quick look that flashed across 'her' face.

"Enough of this weirdness," Bolton said silently to Baker. "Say something, social-butterfly." "So uh, well...Emperor Ibrahaim, I must say the food is most excellent," Baker mentioned.

Bump. 8)

Ibrahaim returned his eyes to Baker. The tension at the table was a good thing, he thought. For all his rhetoric of wanting to unite Tilsitia, he enjoyed watching Healdsburg and the Isles throw barbs at one another. He enjoyed it very much.

"I thank you, Mr. Baker, though I did not cook it myself. However, I shall pass my complements on to the chef," he smiled. Ibrahaim nodded at a guard in the back of the room, who vanished to the kitchens. The Pater wiped his mouth on a napkin. "I trust you all have found your accommodations to be acceptable?"

"We've actually not had a chance to look at them," Bolton said. "I believe we were caught up coversing with Emperor Appoyo."

Down the table, the Ryansislean winced at the mispronounciation of his name, but didn't say anything. At the head, Ibrahaim nodded. "Open communication is one of the most important parts of diplomacy, in my opinion. I'm sorry you haven't had the chance to settle in yet. And the staff? They are treating you well?"

Down the table, the Ryansislean winced at the mispronounciation of his name, but didn't say anything. At the head, Ibrahaim nodded. "Open communication is one of the most important parts of diplomacy, in my opinion. I'm sorry you haven't had the chance to settle in yet. And the staff? They are treating you well?"

OOC: Whoops.

IC: "Fine spirits you chaps have," Bolton replied.

OOC: Whoops.

IC: "Fine spirits you chaps have," Bolton replied.

(don't worry about it - my characters tend not to get easy names to remember. ;))

"I shall again pass your compliments on, though I beg you to tell me if anything is wrong. I fear Effitians can be - somewhat abrasive at times, myself included." Ibrahaim was quickly growing tired of the small talk, but knew he had to press on to keep the charade up. "Mr. Baker; Mr. Bolton - I must wonder if you two often work together."

"Well-" Baker began again. "Well, wot little information Intelligence does decide to pass onto the common folk gets sent to the Ministry of Information, which would be Mr. Baker's office. So I see the wank- Mr. Baker every one in awhile."

"Yes, the letter your government sent me detailed your individual positions," said Ibrahaim, choking back a yawn. "Which is why I wondered. Is 'wank' a part of Mr. Baker's title that I was not informed of? If so, I apologize."

(hmm...sorry for the slow development, but I want everyone else to get one more shot at dinner before moving on.)

Alisa just smiled and nodded as the small talk continued. She nibbled on a piece of salad. She actually was hungry for that meanl she had had a a part thrown by Robert, hagus, she thought it was called. He never told her what was in it, but it was good. She was thinking about saying something, but she really didn't know or understand what was going on. She would need to hire a foriegn affairs minister to keep her updated on this.

"Yes, the letter your government sent me detailed your individual positions," said Ibrahaim, choking back a yawn. "Which is why I wondered. Is 'wank' a part of Mr. Baker's title that I was not informed of? If so, I apologize."

(hmm...sorry for the slow development, but I want everyone else to get one more shot at dinner before moving on.)

"Erm- (I should've kept that to myself, damn you Charles) it was awhile ago Baker ruined our working relationship."

"Ruined your...? I'm sorry?"
_____________________

Emperor Ramírez Arroyo noticed that the Imitoran president was unoccupied. Leaning over slightly, he asked if she was enjoying the meal, flashing a toothy grin.

"It's not important," Bolton said, Baker obviously trying to seem occupied with some other conversation.

Alisa smiled at Ramírez. "Yes, the meal is very good. How do you like it?" she asked, returnign the grin.

"It certainly doesn't sound that way, but I shall not pry," said Ibrahaim, returning to his dinner.
______________________

"Yo lo amo," replied the Ryansislean. "Not like the food one would get in my country, but good nonetheless." His black eyes twinkled.

OOC: Bolton and Baker's relationship sure makes things interesting :wink:

"Really? What do you eat in your home country?" she asked, almost inocently. She put down her fork and smiled broadly at Ramierz.

Robert's eyes, hidden by the green lenses of the Oakley Half Jacket XLJs, scanned across the room. They fell, as always, on Alisa and Rameriz. He really didnt trust him, and kept a close eye on him.

(well I think it would help if I knew what kind of food we are eating :o )

(grr...sorry to let this thing slip so often, but my attention has been distracted by several naval threads over in II. As for food, I don't know much about Roman culture, so you'll all just have to imagine it. I promise - things will actually start to happen after dinner. I'll start seting up the next major plot point sometime in the very near future. For now, just assume that the Emperor keeps trying to seduce Alisa, that Ibrahaim is vague but friendly. Dinner is supposed to be a somewhat muted and awkward experiance, in case that's what it feels like.)

(grr...sorry to let this thing slip so often, but my attention has been distracted by several naval threads over in II. As for food, I don't know much about Roman culture, so you'll all just have to imagine it. I promise - things will actually start to happen after dinner. I'll start seting up the next major plot point sometime in the very near future. For now, just assume that the Emperor keeps trying to seduce Alisa, that Ibrahaim is vague but friendly. Dinner is supposed to be a somewhat muted and awkward experiance, in case that's what it feels like.)

(no need to apologize, in case you havent noticed yet I love Food!! It is one of my passions. :) )

Dinner continued in a somewhat muted manner. James attempted to call Ibrahaim out on one human rights matter or another, but the Pater dodged all the accusations, usually coming out sounding much more noble than the young High King.

A few minutes after the last morsel had vanished, Ibrahaim stood abruptly. “Gentlemen, you’ll excuse me, please. I have matters to attend to. My guards will help you with anything you need. Good night.”

He vanished into the shadows of the room, hard clicking sounds following him down the hall.

OOC: I'm assuming everyone will disperse and go to bed?

Robert noted the abrupt disapearnce of Ibahaim, and stayed silent.

Alisa unknowingly flitered with Rameriez, she was niave like that. She, unconsciously, twirlled her hair, smiled, and acted all around bashfull, not realising he was tring to seduce her.

Roberto, was a little tired from the trip and time change, he decided to go to sleep before the Jet Lag really settled in. He beckoned to his bodyguard and then went upto a guard. "Quemadmodum efficio reverti hospitium?", he asked.

The Lady Chablis left the dining room with the rest after dinner, but she did not immediately head for her room. She stepped up to the receptionists desk.
"My room lacks hot water," she said to the receptionist.
"That is an uncommon problem on the third floor," the receptionist responded, even though her room was on the second floor.
"Perhaps it is insignificant then...," she surreptitiously passed the receptionist a slip of paper. He blanched as he read the paper, and then walked to the back room. Chablis goes to her room, gets into bed and shuts off the lights.
The receptionist spoke to his assistant, "Take over for me. I am feeling ill and must leave."
"You can't leave," the assistant said, "This is the middle of the shift."
"Just take over. I'm leaving."
The receptionist walked out the door while the assistant spluttered in confused indignation.

OOC: Man...tahts just wrong...anyways...I'm off to bed, I got classes plus practice, plus a possible drive to St. Loius followed by a flight to Sna Antonio because a very close friend of mine's friend his being a total ********************************* to her, and I plan to stop it. Rule number one...dont mess with my girls...I will F|_|ck you up.

ooc: Imitora, Kick his ass!! :twisted:

Turns out I wont be going to bed for a while, laundry isnt done yet...but I plan on it...carry on

"hospitium tu duco" (egads...I hope that's at least close to right...sorry if it's a horrible massacre of the language ;)) replied the guard to Roberto, somewhat astonished at having been addressed in his native language.
__________________________

Emperor Ramírez Arroyo smiled as Alisa twirled her hair. Go in for the kill.... "Has anyone ever told you that you're the most beautiful state leader on el mundo?"

(ooc: I agree! Kick his ass!)

"hospitium tu duco" (egads...I hope that's at least close to right...sorry if it's a horrible massacre of the language ;)) replied the guard to Roberto, somewhat astonished at having been addressed in his native language.

"ah, grates agere", replied Roberto and he began to follow the guard to his room, with his own bodyguard in tow.

"ah, grates agere", Roberto and he began to follow the guard to his room, with his own bodyguard in tow.

(ah, thank god...it wasn't too bad, then?)

The guard lead Roberto and his bodyguard back to the hotel, before bowing to them at the door. "valete!"

The room was just as they had left it.

(ah, thank god...it wasn't too bad, then?)

(It was fine, I'm not that good at the language either, just what I remember from when I was a little kid in Italy.)

(It was fine, I'm not that good at the language either, just what I remember from when I was a little kid in Italy.)

(better than me, still ;)

At any rate, I'm going to wait for the next part until everyone's in bed...depending on which bed they get into...)

I'm assuming Baker and Bolton end up in a room with twin beds.

I'm assuming Baker and Bolton end up in a room with twin beds.

(eep, sorry :oops:! Yeah, their room would have two seperate beds, very little in the way of decorations, a moving picture camera in every room, and a small couch in the sitting room.

I think I'm going to have to call it a night...sorry this thing has been so slow in developing, but I find I don't have as much time now as I used to.)

(eep, sorry :oops:! Yeah, their room would have two seperate beds, very little in the way of decorations, a moving picture camera in every room, and a small couch in the sitting room.

I think I'm going to have to call it a night...sorry this thing has been so slow in developing, but I find I don't have as much time now as I used to.)

No problem. Anyways, g'night. Hope things get rollin' soon here.

IC: Bolton and Baker soon were about to call it a night. "Night," Baker said.

Bolton had already fallen asleep.

Alisa blushed slightly at Ramírez's comment, and smiled. "Thanks," she said, somewhat queitly. "I dont think anyone has before," she continued, taking a sip of water.

Roberto lay in his Spartan bed, in deep thought. All the while he was here he had forgotten that his country was at war, at war on two fronts. A large naval force was deployed to Aquilla and in Mossadiqville, though no troops or planes have landed yet, tension was in the air, and like a powderkeg it was ready to explode. Right now his sonl was safe in East Islandia, if you could really call that safe. That country is no sanctuary with the many rebel groups and seperatist forces. He could not help, but to be worried, for both the sake of his son and for the sake of his country. What was the world coming to?, he asked himself. Wars were now more common than sunlight in the summer, and more constant than the seasons.

He looked into the mirror across the room, and saw a pale reflection of his face in the moonlight, he was getting old. He looked at his graying hair and thought, I'll leave the war waging to the younger men, there is not much I can do for my country now, other than what I am doing, trying to forge bonds between other countries. Who knows? Maybe the Effitians really are going to change, then maybe this continent will know peace .

Alisa blushed slightly at Ramírez's comment, and smiled. "Thanks," she said, somewhat queitly. "I dont think anyone has before," she continued, taking a sip of water.

"Well, then, you can't have met many men who would truely be able to appreciate you," continued Ramírez, his eyes gazing steadily at her, though he was also aware of events around him. "I'm afraid it may soon be time to turn in."

OOC: Thsi can only get good. :twisted: Quick post before I go do rush again...tough choice between Delta Tau Delta and Beta Theta Pi, with Kappa Alpha in a ver close third. Tonioght I check out Sig AE, SigChi, and another one I cnat remeber right now.

IC:

Alisa smiled, thanking him. "Yes, it looks like that doesnt it. Disapointing really, I'm not quite tired."

Alisa smiled, thanking him. "Yes, it looks like that doesnt it. Disapointing really, I'm not quite tired."

Ramírez arched his eyebrow. "Do tell. Anything in mind do take it's place?" he asked smoothly.

Alisa smiled at Rameriez, un knowing of his intentions. "Oh, I dunno, whatever happens happens. I'd like to go look around, have a drink or two," she continued on.

The receptionist, a man named Claudius, took a subway to the bad part of Veritas. He walked three blocks to a dark tavern where he met a small gray man.
"Here," Claudius said shoving a package to the gray man, "This is your next mission."
The man nodded, "Very well. Your debt to us is paid. Forget all of this."
"I'm well rid of this," Claudius said with spirit just before the blade plunged into his neck.
"Help me dispose of this," said the man with the knife to the gray man.
The gray man helped the other to drag Claudius's body to the incenerator in the basement and toss it in. He nodded to the killer and left.
The man with the knife walked toward the subway to return to the hotel. He looked exactly like Claudius.

(an interesting twist, Sadwillow. There's no public transportation in Veritas, but I'm sure Cladius can walk ;).)

Emperor Ramírez stood with a swoosh of his cape. "I do not know Veritas - " a nearby guard cringed as Ramírez pronounced the city's name with a v sound rather than a w " - but am sure I can sniff out a bar somewhere. My drink sensor has never let me down," he smiled, tapping his nose.

Alisa stood, smiling. "Well, it sounds like a good idea," she said, pushing her chair in.

Also, for those of you who do pray, I need you to for me for two reasons:

1)Tonight is bidnight for fraternities, and I'm really hoping to get Delta tau delta, and I think I will. I also plan on getting seriously f'ed up tongiht.
2)Today, my firend (same one who I was about to fly down to San Antonio for) found out her mom has cancer, so, pray for her too.

(well, I'm not a praying man, but I do need to get all these chaps in bed. Your choice on sleeping arrangments, Imitora ;) At any rate, good luck!)

Catholicism works!! :lol: umm..I will pray for your friend's mother but for the fraternity thing I will leave it at saying "In bocca di lupo".

(traditional response to "in bocca di lupo" is crepe il lupo, you Babelfish fiends can translate that to your liking)

A small gray man meets with Dante Chablis in her room. The video cameras show only Chablis writhing around on her bed doing a rather naughty strip-tease for the camera. The security people watching the displays see all of the hermaphrodites boyish and girlish charms, but they see nothing of the gray man.

*****
I'm no big fan of the greek system, but my wife was in a sorority so it can't be all that bad. Good luck I guess.
My sympathies and best wishes to your friend and his mother. I don't know the value of my prayers, but they are offered.

OOC: First of all, thanks for the prayers on my firends mom. Shes really down right now, and this doenst do anythign to help. Second, you may want to pray that I dotn kick the ass of the DTD selection comittee taht f'en lied to my face, saying that I have a spot in DTD and all that crap. Third, Iansisle, I know you want to get on with this a bit, but it would be fun to play it out just a we bit. If not, then Alisa ends up back in her own room, because as I stated earlier, she has kinda a crush, if anythign on Robert, soI doubt she would end up in Ramierz's bed, but its your call.

Alisa stood, smiling. "Well, it sounds like a good idea," she said, pushing her chair in.

"After me," smiled the Ryansislean, holding the door open for her. Several guards - Effitian and otherwise - shot some nasty glances. Ramírez bowed slightly to them.

OOC: Pnly post for a while. I'm gonna down a bottle or two of advil then go back to bed.

IC:

Alsia smiled, bowing slightly, and stepped into the cool night air, taking a deep breath. "So, any ideas?" she asked plesently.

Roberto was sound asleep comfortably in the spartan-style bed. His bodyguard however was restless. He was used to poor quality beds, after he used to be in the Army, so it wasn't that. Rather it was most likely suspicion. He felt like everyone in this country was threat, most of this fueled by King Jame's contempt. His Beretta was sitting next to his bed, fully loaded and yet he began to wish that he had some guards with him.

Robert watched Alisa and Rameriez, suspicous of the older man. He was slightly ticked at Alisa's decision to go out and put herself in more danger than was nessacery. He was also upset that she had made this decision in a country it was hard to blend in. His Emerald lensed Oakleys and jeans and a polo were a little off key from the local dress. And his choice to wear the polo and jeans didnt allow him to wear a conclead holster, and the Kimber .45 was to big to just stick in your pocket and hope it wouldnt be seen.

He appraoched Hoot, who had worn a suit, and whispered something in his ear. When the gaurd turned his back, Hoot handed a Taurus PT92 9mm hand gun, and Robert tucked it into his jeans, under the royal blue polo. He, for the first time since they had arrived, took off the sunglasses as he exited the building, fifty yards or so behind Alisa and Ramieriez.

Seeing their monarch walk off, the crowd of Ryansislean guards smiled to each other. Ramírez had quite the reputation as the lady's man back in the Quarry. They followed the pair out the door, at a discreet but noticable distance, while Ramírez did his best to ignore them and continue speaking in a sensitive, yet eloquent, manner.

Meanwhile, James returned to his room. It took quite a bit to get Weathers calmed down from Ibrahaim's slight, but it was achieved nonetheless. After a while, it was decided that Weathers and Lawrence should take the first guard shift, while Princeton, Severson, and James rested.

OOC: So we got the Ryansislean gaurds and Robert following ALisa and Rameriez? Sounds like fun.

IC:

Alisa continued to chat away with Rameriez, tottally unnoticing of Robert following behind them. They talked about trival things, the weather, the local, and the other usual things people talked about. "So, wher are we going," Alis asked, keeping the convorsation going. "I hope they have some good music."

"Well," admitted Ramírez, "the only place I know around here is the hotel bar. Of course, we could always wander deeper into Veritas, see what we find."

A Ryansislean guard behind them winced and glanced about the streets. A Effitian woman ran into her house and slammed the door.

"Well," ALisa thought out loud, "I'm not in a real walking mood, so lets head back to the hotel bar," she finished, smiling.

Robert to saw the Efftian run into the house. He was going to need to get out tongiht, find out what he could about these Efftians, as well as teh Ryansilanians.

"The hotel bar it is," agreed Ramírez, flashing another brilliant smile. The guard behind breathed a sigh of relief. "I wonder, m'dear, if you have ever been to Ryansisle," asked the Emperor, holding the door open for her. Out of the corner of his eyes, Ramírez noticed Robert, and frowned slightly, before returning his full concentration to the hunt.

"Cant say that I have," Alisa replied, stepping through the open door. "I haven't been Presidnet to long, so I really haven't had a chance to get out much. Really tight security now. But, I'm glad they are starting to let me out more," she giggled. She walked towards the bar, and, being inside, Robert kicked up his pace a little. With little effort at all, he had closed the distance to a few feet, and placed his hand on Alisa's shoulder.

"You gonna be ok?" he asked casually, as if he were asking his best friend, not the President of a world power.

"Yeah, I'll be fine," she replied, and playfully punched him. Robert smiled, his sunglasses were back on now that he was in the hotel, and walked off towards the staircase. He rounded a corner, and doubled back, being carfull to not be seen. He sat on a couch in the lobby, and picked up a local paper.

***
Was it me? If so I apologise. Been reading 'Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil,' and I let some of that stuff in!

So lonely here...

(it has been, and I apologize for that. I started this with only the outline of an idea, and I'm afraid that's rather caught up to me. It didn't evolve in a terribly interesting direction - in my opinion, at least. I'm willing to let it die, but if you're all really interested in going on, I'll be happy to do that as well.

Again, sorry for any trouble caused)

EDIT: has been lonely, that is, not your fault ;)

EDIT: has been lonely, that is, not your fault ;)

'Was about to say, thats a little harsh, blamming the failure of the RP on one person.

EDIT: has been lonely, that is, not your fault ;)

'Was about to say, thats a little harsh, blamming the failure of the RP on one person.

(heh, I'd never do that. 'specially because a failed RP here would be all my fault.)

Gotcha. ya know, we do need to RP the getting together of Christin and James, and the pregnancy of elizabeth sometime.

(we really should...I wish Larkinia were here. I think he adds the element this here RP was missing.)

agreed.

(yeah, I think he said it [i have crap memory] but any idea if he is coming back, and if so when?)

He is, but I dont know when. I talk to him a bit, so I'll ask him next time I do.

(*shrugs* Afraid not. He sent me a TG saying that "some stuff had come up" and that I should "take control of his characters in the RPs in which they were involved." I know he's still active, or at least fairly so, on his nation. With luck, whatever came up will be gone soon, and he'll be able to return. Until then...*reshrug*)

Well Iansisle, it hasn't totally left, just gone to Europe to work for a while while leaving me very confused. But enough about that. Yeah, I was on enough to check TG's and do some issues.

Should I ask how many of my guys are still standing? :wink: You didn't kill Jeff off did ya?

(House pets? Rubber Trees?? Good god Man!) :P

(Oh! That was the kind of stuff that came up. Um, I'm sorry to hear about that dude - hope it works out for the best! And it's great to have you back!

In other news, I think everyone's still standing ;) Iansisle gained some East Asian colonies in a historical roleplay (not sure if you were still around when that happened), Robert turned out to not really be Robert, but rather some funny secret agent, um....the Holy Emperor of Effit met an untimely demise, and Duke Andrew escaped to Effit...Iansisle's at war with Nazi-Germany in a 1940's tech world, but still exists in the modern world...James and Christin still like each other....um....

I think that's about it...been a little slow around here of late!)

(EDIT: Oh, and I think those negotiations with Ziobia, T.B., and H.B. fell through.)

(Oh! That was the kind of stuff that came up. Um, I'm sorry to hear about that dude - hope it works out for the best! And it's great to have you back!

:lol: Among other things. Just look at things this way, when a woman you like asks if you can be a father to another guy's child, it's usually a bad sign. :wink: I'm glad to be back too, I missed y'all.

In other news, I think everyone's still standing ;) Iansisle gained some East Asian colonies in a historical roleplay (not sure if you were still around when that happened), Robert turned out to not really be Robert, but rather some funny secret agent, um....the Holy Emperor of Effit met an untimely demise, and Duke Andrew escaped to Effit...Iansisle's at war with Nazi-Germany in a 1940's tech world, but still exists in the modern world...James and Christin still like each other....um....

I think that's about it...been a little slow around here of late!)

(EDIT: Oh, and I think those negotiations with Ziobia, T.B., and H.B. fell through.)

Yeah! We need to get those two kids together. I was here at the start of the East Asian adventure (although just as a watcher) and Jeff still has to settle a score with that former Duke clown.

:lol: Among other things. Just look at things this way, when a woman you like asks if you can be a father to another guy's child, it's usually a bad sign. :wink: I'm glad to be back too, I missed y'all.

Natch ;)

Yeah! We need to get those two kids together. I was here at the start of the East Asian adventure (although just as a watcher) and Jeff still has to settle a score with that former Duke clown.

Aye, we do - depending on the your 'backness', we should get in touch with Celeborne and Daezeman and have a big old-style ANH party!

And, of course, the shadowy Duke Andrew and Holy Emperor Ibrahaim XVIII vrs. Jeff and James ultra-showdown. That's what I mean this post for, except that it never really 'clicked' for me - certainly not in the way your 'Vampiric Plot' one did. (Speaking of which, I've been bookmarking classic ANH threads for reading pleasure...do you happen to have that one?)

In RL news, I seem to lead a relativly boring life. ;) I'm back in Tucson (unlimited computer time...but I have these annoying 'class' things to go to :()...um, yeah. That's about it :D

School just started for me, so I won't be on the forums nearly enough anymore.... :x

Aye, we do - depending on the your 'backness', we should get in touch with Celeborne and Daezeman and have a big old-style ANH party!

And, of course, the shadowy Duke Andrew and Holy Emperor Ibrahaim XVIII vrs. Jeff and James ultra-showdown. That's what I mean this post for, except that it never really 'clicked' for me - certainly not in the way your 'Vampiric Plot' one did. (Speaking of which, I've been bookmarking classic ANH threads for reading pleasure...do you happen to have that one?)

In RL news, I seem to lead a relativly boring life. ;) I'm back in Tucson (unlimited computer time...but I have these annoying 'class' things to go to :()...um, yeah. That's about it :D

Class? Oh yeah, I've got some of those to go to also. ;) At least you're in Tuscon, you could be in worse places, trust me I've been to college in them...

I'll find the link to that thread for ya.

Yeah, we need to have a ANH party! And let's get the J-J smackdown going. There's a lotta ass out there and it needs to be kicked! ;)

AYE! Your back. Well, Imitora has gone, for all better purposes, Irish, Protestism being hte main religon, I'm intorducing a new Character (Murphy McManus, might bring Conor in later, if you dont know what I'm tlaking about, dont ask) and thats about it.

AYE! Your back. Well, Imitora has gone, for all better purposes, Irish, Protestism being hte main religon, I'm intorducing a new Character (Murphy McManus, might bring Conor in later, if you dont know what I'm tlaking about, dont ask) and thats about it.

My back? what about my back? is that damn hump showing again? ;)

Ok, I won't ask...

OOC: Can I join in? Not tonight, I have to go to bed, but tomorrow maybe? If so, can you TG me?

(Danya: TG sent

Larkinia: Don't worry too much about it - I can always preform a search too. Do you have a good reason for a party? Heh, maybe Kat and Jeff just got back from their honeymoon ;) And I'm looking forward to the smack being laid down.)

On the off chance you want to keep this going....

An invitation to All Nations
From the Holy Emperor Ibrahaim XVIII of Effit

Dearest honorable world leaders,

Many of you probably know already of the passing of Ibrahaim XVII, my father and honorable Pater of Effit.

To celebrate the ushering in of what I hope is a new era in the Commonwealth, I shall be holding a coronation celebration at the Castellum Sacrosanctum, in Veritas, in one weeks time. In addition to the festivities, I shall be discussing peace terms for all Tilsitian powers - a lasting peace, I hope.

Effit is a new country. Gone are the days of holy war and crusades - in are the days of understanding and peace. Please help me to celebrate the dawn of a fresh outlook.

Good day, and God Bless,

Ibrahaim XVIII
Holy Emperor and Pater of Effit.

Williams Estate, outside of Ianapalis

The Aston Martin gently pulled into the driveway. Jeff hopped out of the car and strode over to the other side, opening the passenger door.

Katherine slid out of the car as two guards walked over.

"Can we help you with tho..." one of them started to ask. Good lord, they have been busy! No wonder they were on an 'extended vacation'

"No, I've got them," she smiled, holding two bundles, twins Marcus and Julie, in her arms. "Let's get them inside before they catch cold." she continued as they walked toward the house.

Jeff opened the door for her and followed her in. "We should get them up to the bedroom, it was a long trip," he said as he picked up the mail. He rifled through it and took out one very important looking letter.

Hmmmm, wonder what this is

He opened the envelope and read the invitation.

"Gone are the days of holy wars and crusades..." Jeff said, winking at Katherine.

"Well, what's the fun in that?" she joked. "As the official, well... as official as one can get I guess, Ambassador here," she started.

"I should probably go and see what's up." He said. "Heh, I'll only be a wee bit late."

Jeff unloaded the car as Katherine rocked the twins to sleep. "Try to be careful," she said kissing him as he picked up his suitcase again.

"I will," Jeff winked.

EDIT: How's that as a reason for a party? ;)

My back? what about my back? is that damn hump showing again? ;)

Ok, I won't ask...

Poli Sci majors become presidents, english majors become ass holes. WEll, lets get this party crunkin.

My back? what about my back? is that damn hump showing again? ;)

Ok, I won't ask...

Poli Sci majors become presidents, english majors become ass holes. WEll, lets get this party crunkin.

Well thank god I'm neither then... ;)

Bah. Jsut be sure when someone named Robert Fortier runs for political office, be sure to vote for him. Actually, you;ve seen my politics, so on second hand...dont.

(Well, I suppose I could keep this going...but I'm not really sure where to take it. I'm sure that Alisa / Rameriz thing is a dead end - and I don't know what to do about the sleeping.

Should I have A) Ibrahaim capture James and have him confront Duke D'Analia, only to have Jeff, Weathers, and Robert burst in at the pivitol moment? B) Have D'Analia sitting by Ibrahaim during the ceremony, a smug look on his face, then attempt to hold the world leaders ransom? or C) A somewhat awkward coronation, leaving everyone to go home empty, and Ibrahaim and Andrew to plot?

I put it up to you ;)

Oh, found that thread (http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=48347&highlight=) by the way.

And best wishes to Mr. and Mrs. Williams and their twins!

Yeah, congras, and its your call. I'm in the mood for less violence, more fun, and robert and Hoot are gonna die pretty soon in antoher rp/

(Well, I suppose I could keep this going...but I'm not really sure where to take it. I'm sure that Alisa / Rameriz thing is a dead end - and I don't know what to do about the sleeping.

Should I have A) Ibrahaim capture James and have him confront Duke D'Analia, only to have Jeff, Weathers, and Robert burst in at the pivitol moment? B) Have D'Analia sitting by Ibrahaim during the ceremony, a smug look on his face, then attempt to hold the world leaders ransom? or C) A somewhat awkward coronation, leaving everyone to go home empty, and Ibrahaim and Andrew to plot?

I put it up to you ;)

Oh, found that thread (http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=48347&highlight=) by the way.

And best wishes to Mr. and Mrs. Williams and their twins!

Oooooooh, those are good choices! The only problem with B is that if they tried to hold everyone hostage, Hoot and Robert would tear through that place like a hurricane. ;) I'll vote for C, then we can come up with a plot for the two evil-doers.

Edit: and let Duke Schmuck-boy make an appearance at the coronation...

(Ok...I'll type out a coronation post to kill this thing off properly, then we can get on to the main show :)

Be up in a bit, cause I'm going to check some stuff while I'm doing it.)

OOC: Sounds good. I'm shipping off to bed, waking up at 6:00 AM, may or may not have time to make a quick check in before I have to go to school...so the best bet for me to post is around 3:00 PM to 10:30 PM. Not really anytime earlier unless it's the weekend.

Anyways, g'night everyone. Hope this RP gets rollin' again, it was going pretty good :D

As long as I can find a way to intro duce one of the McManus brothers (and dont worry, I wont do it in a court house...but now that I think about it...) I'm fine.

Footsteps echoed off soft marble as the remaining delegates were ushered into a great hall encased with frescoes by burly armed but weaponless Effitian guards. Once again, all weapons had to be left at the front door, even James’ broadsword.

James felt much better now that Jeff was here - his good friend served as a moderating presence, keeping the young High King from bouncing off the walls.

In the front of the room - which was darkened, while the rest had an eerie red light cast by large stained glass windows - sat a lone figure. It - James supposed it must be a he, considering Effitian male-dominated society - looked familiar, though he couldn’t place the figure obscured by shadow.

After everyone had been seated, James gazed about the room. It reminded him somewhat of his own throne room in Dun Adien - and that wasn’t a good thing. It was a large, imposing space - not at all conducive to actual pleasure of any sort. All the paintings, as well as the stained glass, showed scenes of horror and war, usually with the Pater rising victorious from the heaps of bloodied bodies.

At long last, there was some movement from the front of the room. A choir behind the stage started singing softly, and all the Effitians - including the guards - started chanting.

“In Pater...In Effit. In Pater et Effit. Effit est Pater ; Pater est Effit....In Pater....”

The lights came up slowly, causing James to stifle a gasp.

Former-Duke Andrew D’Analia, his sister’s husband and would be assassin, who was supposed to be in exile in Healdsburg, sat at Ibrahaim’s right hand.

(Imitora - feel free to magic one of them there. They could have always come before, I suppose. Oglethorpia: I hope so too, but I think this coronation will be wrapping up soon. We'll probably have a party to celebrate Jeff's children (any reason to party is a good one in the ANH :D), and you're welcome (in my books, at least) to join that.

Has Rurh done that thingamadoo yet?)

Jeff noticed James' gasp, and slightly turned his head to see what James was looking at.

What the.... that bastard's here!

Jeff's eyes narrowed and shot daggers at D'Analia.

You and I have some unfinished business, bub. Hope you brought your body guard also.

D'Analia smiled right back at Jeff, a smug, self-centered smile. As a presbyter administered the rites of office to Ibrahaim, he nodded slightly at a figure in the audience. There was his son, Earl. "Liberator", of course, was dead - Maria the maid's tear-filled testimony had been enough to send him to the gallows. Soon thereafter, Maria's mother had died from Huntington's Disease.

"And I proclaim you, Ibrahaim XVIII, Filius of the Realm, to be Pater of all Greater Effit." The religious man bowed his head slightly and backed away.

"I decree there shall be a party," said Ibrahaim, though not in any tone to indicate a festive attitude. "To the Reception Hall."

"We should go," whispered James to Jeff. "Now!"

(OOC: The way I wish I could RP them in...

Suddenly, the doors slammed shut, and a fire alarm went off. Three figures charged to the head of the room, the two younger looking ones each held two Taurus silenced pistols, the older one holding a severly cut down shotgun. The grabbed D'Anallia, and threw him down in front of everyone the crowd screaming. Suddenly, the two brothers spoke, alternating every sentance: "Now yo uwill recive us. We do not ask for your tired or poor. WE do not want your hungry and sick. It is your curropt we claim. It is your evil that will be sought by us. With every breath, we shall hunt them down. Each day, we will spill their blood, untill it rains from the heavens. Do not rape, do not kill, do not steal. This are principles which everyman of every faith can embrace. These are not polite suggestions, but a code of conduct, and those of you who violate it will pay the deaerst cost. There are varrying degrees of evil. We urge you lesser forms of filth not to push the bounds, to cross over into our domain. For if you do, one day you will look behind you, and you will see we three, and you will reap it. And on that day, we will send you to whatever god you wish." The then stood behind D'Analia, and each brother stood on wither side of the older man, the father, and lowered the hand closest to the father, to D'Analia's head. In the center stood the father with the shot gun, each brother with the silenced pistol. In unison they spoke: "And shepards we shall be, for the my lord for thee, for power hat desended forth from thy hand, so that we may swiftly carry out thy command, and we shall flow a river forth to thee, and teming with souls shall it ever be. It nomini patri, et filli, et spiritus sancti." With that, they each fired once, and fled.)

IC:

Alisa sat in the front row, amazed by the ordeal of a corination. Robert and Hoot, oddly, were no where to be found, but some one new sat next to Alisa. He wore an all black suit, save the tie, which was a dark silver color. Sitting at the back of the room, with the gaurds was his Imitora Military Industries/Taurus PT100 10mm semi automatic pistol. He sat, listening intently as the gaurds, and choir, began their chant. He wish he had learned Latin, as his mother had wished. French, Gaelic, German, Itallian, and Spanish werent good enough. He cocked his head slightly to the right, then straightend after hearing a slight 'pop' come from his back.

OOC2: a pic of the new commer:

http://ffmedia.ign.com/batman/multimedia/reedus.jpg

D'Analia smiled right back at Jeff, a smug, self-centered smile. As a presbyter administered the rites of office to Ibrahaim, he nodded slightly at a figure in the audience. There was his son, Earl. "Liberator", of course, was dead - Maria the maid's tear-filled testimony had been enough to send him to the gallows. Soon thereafter, Maria's mother had died from Huntington's Disease.

"And I proclaim you, Ibrahaim XVIII, Filius of the Realm, to be Pater of all Greater Effit." The religious man bowed his head slightly and backed away.

"I decree there shall be a party," said Ibrahaim, though not in any tone to indicate a festive attitude. "To the Reception Hall."

"We should go," whispered James to Jeff. "Now!"

Jeff looked at who D'Analia had nodded to in the audience. Then he shot back a satisfied smirk at D'Analia and winked at him, then tapped his chest in the area D'Analia had been shot.

You're next he mouthed to him.

"Yeah," Jeff said as he walked with James, never taking his eyes off of Earl or his father. "Too much vermin here for my liking."

Alisa follwoed the party out of the corination hall, unsure of what exactly was happening. She sensed a sort of...hatred eminating from James and the new man who stod next to him, and she inadvertantly squeezed teh new commer's arm. "Do yo know what this is all about?" she whispered into his ear.

He leaned in close to her, whispering back, "I dunno, but I'll keep me an eye on it."

She felt better knowing that her head bodygaurd was there, the mix of hs well formed biceps, near rugged handsomeness, and the Irish accent kept her calm, and gave her the proverbial 'warm fuzzy feeling'.

James quickly gathered his K.I.G. men, and tried to retreat from the palace. Several burly Effitian guards restrained them. James' eyes narrowed as Princeton bared his muscles.

"You will let us pass."

The Effitian said nothing.

"I am the High King of Iansisle. You will let me pass!"

Still the guard stared, giving no indication he understood James' words. Behind them, D'Analia and Earl drew closer. D'Analia seemed much tanner than he had been back in Sentry Island, and they were both quite a bit leaner.

"Shall I force passage, m'liege?" whispered Weathers softly.

"No," replied James. "The last thing we need now is this whole place crashing down about us." He turned to the guard. "You WILL let us pass!"

The guard said nothing.

"Hello, James, my old friend," whispered D'Analia behind him. The K.I.G. men hastened to form a protective shell around the King, but D'Analia made no sudden moves.

Jeff turned around and looked at D'Analia and Earl.

"Well well, I thought I sensed a disturbance in the force, it just turned out to be a couple of a-- clowns," he said stepping forward between James and the two.

"Why, you look so much... what's the word I'm looking for... poorer, that's it, than you did the last time we spoke."

Alisa watched as all this happened, and made a move forward, but was restrained by Murphy's hand. "Dont worry, I'll check this out." At six foot even , he wasnt exactly an imposing figure, but had that "I can kick your ass while sh*t faced" look that seemed to run in his family. Although he was unarmed, he had been in plenty of bar fights to know how to handle himself, and how to use a wine bottle as a weapon. "Hey boys, shouldnt we be playing a little more nicely?" he offered, approaching the group, hoping that his Irish accent wouldnt anger anyone.

(heh....any word is an insult if you put a-- in front of it ;))

"Ah, the intrepid Mr. Williams," replied D'Analia, stepping slightly to the side to get a better view of James. "Yes, sir, I am afraid I have run into some harder times. I think, however, all sins will soon be absolved."

While he was talking to Jeff, he never took his eyes from the young High King. James stared right back, his brown eyes losing the soft look they gave to Christin and gaining the quality usually reserved for Hoot.

"Oh will they now?" Jeff asked, moving to keep him from James. "Planning another assassination attempt are we?"

"Last time you and I dealt, you were planning on executing me. Something I'm not to quick to forgive or forget.

"Now if you'll excuse me, we were just leaving."

Alisa watched as Murphy seemigly put him self in the center of the spot light. He steped in between Jeff and JAmes and D'analia, putting his hands up light heartedly. "Boys, not meaning to interupt your little playground pissing match, but I couldn't help but hear what's going on here. Now, if I may, why dont we head to a nice pub, I'll buy, and we can discuss this over a pint?"

He made sure to stand in a very unthreatening, yet not submisive, stance, and his voice, while there was a hint of seriousness, was also very light hearted.

Alisa watched as Murphy seemigly put him self in the center of the spot light. He steped in between Jeff and JAmes and D'analia, putting his hands up light heartedly. "Boys, not meaning to interupt your little playground pissing match, but I couldn't help but hear what's going on here. Now, if I may, why dont we head to a nice pub, I'll buy, and we can discuss this over a pint?"

He made sure to stand in a very unthreatening, yet not submisive, stance, and his voice, while there was a hint of seriousness, was also very light hearted.

Jeff chuckled, "I agree with you mister, we should go out and get a drink, right James? Preferably back at my place, far enough away from here."

Murph turned and looked at the man. "Now, see, this man here as the right idea," he chuckled.

Murph turned and looked at the man. "Now, see, this man here as the right idea," he chuckled.

"Yeah," Jeff said, still grinning at D'Analia. "Now as soon as these guards let us out, everything will be happy and shiny. Second round'll be on me."

"Aye, I'll be holding you to that then." Murph spun again, and looked at D'Analia. "Well, it looks like all is good now, so why dont you just let me and my new friends here be on our way?"

"I hold no one anywhere," said D'Analia, shrugging. "He does." The former Duke gestured over his shoulder at Ibrahaim, who was watching to encounter at the gate. The new Holy Emperor shuffled over.

"Is there a problem, gentlemen?"

OOC: Last post here for a while

IC:

"Well, me and my firends here would like to get us a drink, and it seems, according to this man here, you dont want us to leave. Now, I enjoyed to corination and all, but, I'd enjoy a pint a wee bit better, and my purpose for being here," he said, noding towards Alisa, "is getting just a bit worried, and I think she'd like to take her leave."

"I hold no one anywhere," said D'Analia, shrugging. "He does." The former Duke gestured over his shoulder at Ibrahaim, who was watching to encounter at the gate. The new Holy Emperor shuffled over.

"Is there a problem, gentlemen?"

"Not at all," Jeff said. "We were all just leaving. Once your men get out of the way."

"Gentlemen," laughed Ibrahaim. "The party's just getting started. Please, for the good of international relations, for the good of Tilsitia, stay."

He indicated D'Analia. "I see you've already met my new right-hand-man, Andrew? I'm afraid the Claudius met with a rather unfortunate accident last night."

"Gentlemen," laughed Ibrahaim. "The party's just getting started. Please, for the good of international relations, for the good of Tilsitia, stay."

He indicated D'Analia. "I see you've already met my new right-hand-man, Andrew? I'm afraid the Claudius met with a rather unfortunate accident last night."

"Yes, whenever he's around, unfortunate things seem to happen. Don't they?" Jeff asked D'Analia. "I'm so sorry you're stuck with him. But better you than me."

Murphy seemd to cringe at this. It wasn't doing much good to tone down an intense situation. While he was as much up to a fight as the next man, he wasn't up to it when Presidnt Carter was around. "Let me go talk to President Carter," was all he said as he walked away. They could be seen whispering back and forth, before he returned. He looked at Jeff, and whispered in his ear. "I dunno much of whats going on, but it seems you do. Its your call on this."

D'Analia refused to be angered by Jeff's verbal blows, rolling with them instead. "Perhaps, m'lord," he said, "it would be best that they were to leave. Imagine what we could do to the Commonwealth if they were confronted by a combined Tilsitian Alliance. Remember the trouble they had dealing with a rag-tag band of hollywacks?"

Ibrahaim nodded slightly, tilting his head at D'Analia. "There is no reason to be insulting. While in Effit, they will come to no harm. Illustrious friends, is it too much to ask? That you simply attend the festivities a little longer? I give you my word - sworn on my honor as Pater - that no harm shall come to any of you on Effitian soil. And James, think of the chances - a Tilsitia, no longer torn asunder by needless war."

"Well..." started James, seeming a little lost.

Murphy looked at them, slightly confused. On one handed, he jsut wanted to grab Alisa nd get teh hell outa there. On the other, he wanted to stay. "Well, if these fine men wish to stay, then I think I'll and Presidnet Carter will stay, but should any harm come to her...well, the blood of the inocent shant be spilled, but the blood of the wicked shall flow like a river."

"Sir, it would be my greatest pleasure and honor if you and President Carter (heh...;)) choose to remain here. Well? Sir Jeffery - King James? Will you remain?"

Jeff turned to James, "I don't want to stay another minute here. But if you want to stay and listen to what this person has to say, then I'm not going anywhere," he whispered.

"What guarantees do we have nothing will happen. You'll excuse me for not being too trusting, but your choice of toadies leaves me with no choice."

OOC: Very :wink:

IC:

"Well, I can assure you nothing will happen. I'm here," Murphy joked, tyring to reak the heavy air.

OOC2: Out for the night. I finally think I found someone James might like in Murphy. Of course if you really want to see what he is and where he comes from, see the movie "Boondock Saints"

Jeff turned to James, "I don't want to stay another minute here. But if you want to stay and listen to what this person has to say, then I'm not going anywhere," he whispered.

"I'm interested in hearing what he has to say," replied James, eying Ibrahaim. "Peace on our continent would be a welcome change."

"What guarantees do we have nothing will happen. You'll excuse me for not being too trusting, but your choice of toadies leaves me with no choice."

Jeff found himself shoved roughly from behind - the K.I.G. men hadn't thought to watch the Effitian guards while D'Analia - whom they all recognized - was at their front.

"The word of the Pater is beyond reproach!" bellowed the guardsman.

"He speaks English," mumbled James. "Who'd have thought?"

"Repent now!" continued the guard, his meaty face contorting.

Jeff found himself shoved roughly from behind - the K.I.G. men hadn't thought to watch the Effitian guards while D'Analia - whom they all recognized - was at their front.

"The word of the Pater is beyond reproach!" bellowed the guardsman.

"He speaks English," mumbled James. "Who'd have thought?"

"Repent now!" continued the guard, his meaty face contorting.

A familiar twinkle entered Jeff's eyes, he grinned and chuckled as he turned around.

"Bub, I'm gonna give you one chance to apologize for that shove." Jeff said looking the guard in the eye. "His word is above reproach? Really? Then I'm sorry.."

.. that he's such a poor judge of character.

The guard didn't so much apologize as he did make a "humph" noise and fall back to his position.

Ibrahaim said something quickly in latin, his eyes narrowing at the guard. "Gentlemen, allow me to apologize for him. My father - and his fathers - instilled some traits in the population that I find most...undesireable for diplomatic negotiations. Rest assured, it will not happen again. Now, if you will join me, I have a special lunch prepared."

Behind them, two other Effitians dragged the offending guard out the door, muffling his surprised shouts with their hands.

Jeff watched as the man was taken away.

"Well, he was doing his job, regardless of what I think about it. I guess I have to give him props for that." He said. "OK, if James is staying, then I'm staying."

"King James," asked Ibrahaim, just a touch of irratation in the back of his voice.

"Er, I must stay, Jeff. For the good of the Commonwealth," he said, shrugging. "You really don't have to - I trust the Holy Emperor."

"King James," asked Ibrahaim, just a touch of irratation in the back of his voice.

"Er, I must stay, Jeff. For the good of the Commonwealth," he said, shrugging. "You really don't have to - I trust the Holy Emperor."

Jeff winked at James, "And that's why you're such an innocent soul," he whispered to him.

"And if you think I'm missing what could be an interesting lunch with you and him, you're nuts." he added with a grin.

"I agree - it should be most enlightening," nodded James. "I'm interested, for instance, to know just what your plans for the continent are. You've said much, but told very little."

Ibrahaim just nodded. "All will be explained."

The lunch table was much smaller than the dinner one. Ibrahaim sat at the head, of course, with James to his left and D'Analia to his right. The others sat down in a somewhat random pattern, though the Tilsitian heads of state were near to Ibrahaim.

(and I think this would probably be a good place to break for the evening, to allow Oglethorpia to catch back up. He's got some rather interesting characters here. Of course, if you want to get the party started, I'm not objected to two threads at once :))

OOC: I'll leave that up to you ;)

McManus didnt so much as sit as crouch over his chair. He waited for somethig to happen, he could almost feel it comming. He made sure he was close to Alisa in case he needed to move fast. When the food came, to the suprise of everyone (who knows Imitora), he bowed his head and mumbled something before taking a bite of his meal.

McManus didnt so much as sit as crouch over his chair. He waited for somethig to happen, he could almost feel it comming. He made sure he was close to Alisa in case he needed to move fast. When the food came, to the suprise of everyone (who knows Imitora), he bowed his head and mumbled something before taking a bite of his meal.

(Can someone please catch me up on the last 3 pages or so?)

Nadda much happend. Lark Came back, we shot the shit for a while, and we are now at the corination party, and thats about it.

I see, thanks for the update.

No prob.

(I'm just going to give Oglethorpia a chance to see the new posts...if he hasn't responded by 8:00 or so tonight (my time), I'll continue on without him.

And, yes, that was a rather poorly disguised BUMP :))

Are you CST?

OOC: Sorry for holding y'all up. I'm here, Iansisle can continue and i'll jump in when necessary :wink:

(PST right now, but we'll be MST soon because Arizona doesn't do the whole daylight savings thing. Oglethorpia - don't worry about it ;) I needed to go to bed, anyhow.)

Ibrahaim swirled his drink, gazing down the table. Everyone stared back, waiting. The Pater grinned, and raised his glass. "To Tilsitia, gentlemen. May her fortunes be evergreen."

A strange toast, thought James, seconding it nonetheless. That's an Iansislean phrase - what's he playing at?

Ibrahaim waited, perhaps for another to give a toast. Seeing that none was forthcoming, he announced: "It is with a heavy heart that I must accept this post, but in its weight, it aches for the future!"

James looked about, wondering what the Holy Emperor was playing at. An uncomfortable silence fell over the table.

Jeff's eyes locked with James' as he set his glass down after Ibrahaim's statement. The concern in them was visible, but he kept his cool as he scanned the others at the table, and the room, quickly.

Jeff's eyes locked with James' as he set his glass down after Ibrahaim's statement. The concern in them was visible, but he kept his cool as he scanned the others at the table, and the room, quickly.

Bolton was thouroughly enjoying the Effitian spirits, looking up to see Jeff studying him and slowing his consumption of his drink.

(Ah, I wish I were better at timing my buggering-off-to-Londons. I'd never catch up with this, but I felt the need to post anyway, since I'm reading now. These affairs are much better than telly, and much closer than books, which I can't reach without standing up.)

(Damn, I g2g, goodnight all.)

(Damn, I g2g, goodnight all.)

Later :D

Jeff's eyes locked with James' as he set his glass down after Ibrahaim's statement. The concern in them was visible, but he kept his cool as he scanned the others at the table, and the room, quickly.

Bolton was thouroughly enjoying the Effitian spirits, looking up to see Jeff studying him and slowing his consumption of his drink.

Jeff's eyes looked over him quickly and then sprinted on, checking the nearest exits before returning to D'Analia and Ibrahaim.

Murphy felt the slowly rising tension as he sipped a glass of water. He leaned over to a waiter, slightly tugging on his pant leg. "Not to be a bother, but you wouldn't happen to be able to get me a pint would you?" he asked, offering a smile.

Murphy felt the slowly rising tension as he sipped a glass of water. He leaned over to a waiter, slightly tugging on his pant leg. "Not to be a bother, but you wouldn't happen to be able to get me a pint would you?" he asked, offering a smile.

Jeff grinned a little at that, "make that two if you can," he said. "Preferably a nice, dark stout?"

"And make sure it starts with a 'G'," Murphy finished, allowing the waiter to go on his way. He looked over to Jeff, and extended his hand. "McManus. Murphy McManus. Head of Presidential Security, you?"

"Good man," Baker said to Jeff. "Nothing wrong with a good beer."

"And make sure it starts with a 'G'," Murphy finished, allowing the waiter to go on his way. He looked over to Jeff, and extended his hand. "McManus. Murphy McManus. Head of Presidential Security, you?"

Jeff shook the man's hand, "Jeff Williams, Larkinian Ambassador to Iansisle, and resident punching bag for bad guys," he said with a chuckle.

"Good man," Baker said to Jeff. "Nothing wrong with a good beer."

"Not at all," Jeff said. "And there are times when a good beer will help to calm the nerves."

Not really knowing Jeff, or his since of humor, Murphy responded with a confused look. "A boxer? I boxed a wee bit, never really took up on it though. I gotta look good for the laddies, cant do that all battered and bruised. But you say your name is Williams eh? Sounds a touch familiar."

Not really knowing Jeff, or his since of humor, Murphy responded with a confused look. "A boxer? I boxed a wee bit, never really took up on it though. I gotta look good for the laddies, cant do that all battered and bruised. But you say your name is Williams eh? Sounds a touch familiar."

Jeff chuckled a little, "Yeah, god knows how I got married, looking like I did as often as I got hammered, although it wasn't from boxing. I seem to have a knack of running into the wrong element."