NationStates Jolt Archive

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The Marche Islands request any peaceful nation to send an ambassador to a State Dinner to unveil a statue of Edwin Marche, our founder. The Marche Seaport will be open to any diplomatic ships - please do not bring more than three guards, the Black Watch is testing its new rifles.

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Agrigento wishs to send an Ambassador, is this acceptable?

Of course, signor. Will a translator be necessary?

Of course, signor. Will a translator be necessary?

No I do not think so. :)

Wonderful. Please inform us of ship name, ambassador's name, etc.

Wonderful. Please inform us of ship name, ambassador's name, etc.

Angelo Alleta will arrive on board the Squallo, a Naga class Catamaran.

Prime Minister Hiresh Dhawan reviewed Lord MacIntyre's proposal to send an emissary to the Marche Islands. He pulled up a list of possible canidates, selecting one Ambassador Third Class Jason Whitimere from the list. The selection was then relayed back to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

ooc: ooh, harsh. Third class?

ic: "Confirmed." Alice Harrison, communications officer, spins in her chair. "Agrigento confirmed. Anyone else?"

The Squallo sailed effortlessly across the water, its caterpillar drive propelling the ship with ease. Soon the port came into sight and the ship began to hail the shore.

"This is the Squallo, we have a diplomat in tow. Do we have premission to enter the harbor?"

"Confirmed. Watch Officer James Kelvin here; please use dock number 34."

"Well, State Director Andrew Kreins and Foreign Relations Director Gordon Newell are both tied up at the moment; would you mind if we sent Joint Chief Dan Jenson to represent Oglethorpia at the dinner?"

Sam Hedland
President of Oglethorpia

"That would be perfectly fine. What ship will he arrive in?"

"The leisure vessel 'MacKaye' can be used, though we're much more fond of air travel."

Dan Jenson
Defense Bureau

"Unfortunately, at present an airport is only a proposal being kicked around Parliament. We will look forward to your diplomat's arrival."

"Very well."

Dan Jenson
Defense Bureau

OOC: Normally, I RP departures from the gov't offices and arrivals, but, he'll arrive when things start getting going.

The large Naga sailed into port and quickly a RHIB was lowered from the central fuselage. Soon the small ship, based on a Zodiak, tied down at port and Angelo made his first steps onto the dockyard. He was unescorted and unarmed, with his only protection being his knowledge of Tai Chi Chuan.

A tall, imposing figure in black meets him at the dock. A visor is flipped down, and he looks Angelo over. "You're clear. Permission to enter Marche Islands granted, welcome. I am Enforcement Officer Harrelson Michaels."

(heh, sorry - Third Class are our 'roving' ambassadors - Second Class are perminant 'station' ambassadors, and First Class is Quincy Johnson, who should be viewed as on the same line as the Prime Minister or the High King. Plus I just like Jason's character ;))

S.S. Bicycle seperated from her convoy, steaming away from Walmington and towards the Marche Islands. Jason Whittimere sat ontop of a pile of hay in her main hold. "I always get the worst assignments," he groused.

A tall, imposing figure in black meets him at the dock. A visor is flipped down, and he looks Angelo over. "You're clear. Permission to enter Marche Islands granted, welcome. I am Enforcement Officer Harrelson Michaels."

"Hello Harrelson. How goes things?"

The Tower of Babble, as NivTech CommTower is nicknamed, scans the horizon. As a ship enters the line of sight, a light blinks on Alice's desk. "Incoming ship, please identify yourself."

----

"Well enough. I am instructed to transport you to the Center Hall."

"Well enough. I am instructed to transport you to the Center Hall."

"Ah, then we best get moving, no?"

"Of course." Harrelson motions to a sleek car which rests on the ground. As he starts it, jets of steam blast out from under it and it rises.

We the Nation of Soviet Trasa wishes to send a Diplomate to this dinner

"Well, that's a bit information-weak. What's his name? What's the ship's name? Do you people even know what 'soviet' means?"

Larkinia would like to send a representative to the dinner also.

"All right, Larkinia, what's your diplomat's name, what ship will he use?"

Yes we know what Soviet means here is your Ifo

Name of Diplomat: Hasa Oraroa

name of ship:Trasa's Pride

"All right, all right, whatever. We will be watching for your arrival."

"With your permission, diplomatic attache Christian Frankel will attend the dinner. He will be using a personal Nissan/Ford A/V as his means of transportation with a beacon set at frequency 401.45. He will signal as he approaches your airspace."

"Sorry, sir, no airport. Please have him use a ship. He could land on Alvarez De Laguna Loco, but that's all the way across the chain."

Christian nods as he reads the reply. They could use these, he thought, Not much bigger than a luxury car, I'll bring it up with their president.

"I'll be aboard the LSS Goliath," he replied. "I can fly out to them, they are in the area and can dock in your harbor. I'll be the only one coming off of the ship."

"All right. Your approval is confirmed. We look forward to your arrival."

The Tower of Babble, as NivTech CommTower is nicknamed, scans the horizon. As a ship enters the line of sight, a light blinks on Alice's desk. "Incoming ship, please identify yourself."

The captain was a little surprised to hear a woman's voice on the other end. "Crazy country," he muttered, before keying his wireless. "G'Day - NivTech Communications, I presume? We are the Iansislean merchantman S.S. Bicycle, with a load of hay and a diplomatic representitive bound for the Marche Islands. Please give instructions."

The sleek, black "car" zipped through the air quietly, the four turbines making less noise than expected.

Nice, Christian grinned, I'm glad they let me take one of the prototypes out for a shakedown.

A ship pulled into the AV's radar. That's the Goliath

Christian slowed his approach to a hover above the ship, then adjusting the stick, brought it down to a vertical landing on the deck.

"Nice timing sir," an ensign said as Christian opened the door and slid onto the deck, "We're approaching Marche Island territorial waters now."

"Great," Christian smiled as the two walked to the bridge. "Let's not keep them waiting."

The two entered the bridge and Christian walked to the comm center.

"Attention Marche Island control, this is LSS Goliath, requesting permission to enter territory and dock."

"Bicycle, you are cleared. Please use Port 15. Goliath, you'll want to use Port 63."

"Copy," Christian said.

"You heard her," Captain Tobias Freatin said, "Follow their beacon in to the Port. Give me 100% on the reactor."

The old warship surged ahead, heading in to the port.

This is the Trasa's Pride requesting Permission to dock

Cargo is the Ambassador

"Well, hmm." Alice shuffles papers. Tonight is not a good night. It is her anniversary, and she's stuck in the Tower. "Well, I don't seem to see you here. Sorry. Please turn back."

Goliath pulled in to the docks, and a tall, lean man with jet black hair and light blue eyes walked out wearing a black pinstriped suit, and carrying an attache case and a package.

"Bicycle, you are cleared. Please use Port 15. Goliath, you'll want to use Port 63."

"Roger that, control. We're coming in now." The even older freighter started her slow deacceleration move, screws thrashing backwards against the water to slow her in time to manouver into dock.

Jason Whittimere watched as the crew tied up to dock. This time, he was going to prove that he was no longshoreman - when the merchant captain hit him up to help unload the hay, Jason refused. He was hit with a seventy-general transportation bill and a low, growling laugh.

Jason helped unload the hay.

A huge, wide man steps up to the dock. "Enforcement Officer 'Grunt' MacKinnon. May I check your bag and package, sir?"

"Of course Officer MacKinnon," Christian said, handing his briefcase and package over and noticing a group unloading... hay??

"You got to ride in the hay ship? I feel for ya, man." He flicks his vosr down and scans the packages. "I see no problems. I'm to take you to Central Hall. This way, please." He starts a nearby steamcar.

Jason cleaned his hands off, grumbling about how cheap the MoFR was for him, and walked over to meet whoever was waiting for him.

"That is a rather interesting vehicle. How is the gas consumption?"

OOC: Hmm, i'm assuming the MacKaye's arrival is alright.

Jenson was surprised to be woken up so early. "Mr. Jenson, we're here," the Captain of the yacht said. "Oh, right," he said, rubbing his eyes.

"Gas? This thing runs on sun and water. A beauty, from the 30's."

---

Jenson is greeted by a similar officer, who scans him and takes him to another steamcar.

---

The convoy of cars leaves a trail of damp asphalt behind it. The six-floored tower of the Government looms in the distance. "We're coming up on the city of Marche now."

"Gas? This thing runs on sun and water. A beauty, from the 30's."

"Ah I see AgFuel Petroleum Industries will not be setting up business in this eco-friendly place", he said with a laugh. "That might hurt trade between our nations, but not by much."

"Kelvin Car is one of the biggest businesses on the Isles. Manufacturer of steamcars."

"Kelvin Car is one of the biggest businesses on the Isles. Manufacturer of steamcars."

"I see, Steam cars don't have much of a future in Agrigento, unless of course developed by Agrigentian companies. Can't have foreigners putting our people out of jobs and business, can we?"

"Oh, well of course. Kelvin's always looking to license out, though. I'm the grandson of the founder."

"Oh, well of course. Kelvin's always looking to license out, though. I'm the grandson of the founder."

"I see, well as intriguing as your offer is, I doubt it will go over. There still is the petroleum industry. They would suffer, people would lose jobs there and so on."

Christian sat in the car as it seemlessly flew toward the city.

"So that's Marche City... Impressive. So what are the plans for the dinner?"

"Wasn't going te offer, just making small talk."

----

"Dinner, some sort of archery show-off bit, then the unveiling of Founder Marche's statue. He's the father of Consul Marche."

"Wasn't going te offer, just making small talk."

"Ah yes, well I'm not one for small talk!", he says angerly. The words Testa di minga!, come to his mind.

"Do not be angry, sir. It is the second precept of Jolian Christianism, the first being 'Hurry is unwarranted.'"

"Do not be angry, sir. It is the second precept of Jolian Christianism, the first being 'Hurry is unwarranted.'"

"Meh, anyways, what can you tell me about your Country?"

"We are five islands. This is Marche, and the rest in turn are Tribute, Hunter, Kelvin, and Alvarez de Laguna Loco."

"Dinner, some sort of archery show-off bit, then the unveiling of Founder Marche's statue. He's the father of Consul Marche."
"Excellent," Christian said. "Some sort of archery show off? By who? Did the Consul bring in a group for the show or is he the marksman in question?"

"Oooh, no. Consul's far too fat for that anymore. He's really let himself go. No, the Ceremonial Guard will be showing off their new techniques."

"We are five islands. This is Marche, and the rest in turn are Tribute, Hunter, Kelvin, and Alvarez de Laguna Loco."

"I see, very interesting. And what about your government?"

"Oooh, no. Consul's far too fat for that anymore. He's really let himself go. No, the Ceremonial Guard will be showing off their new techniques."

Christian chuckled, he could see himself going down that road if he weren't careful. "Does the Ceremonal guard only use traditional weapons? Are they seperate from the regular military?"

"One Consul, one hundred Parliamentarians, and the Commander Guardslaird."

----

"Yeah. They're the elite, though. Once you've served your sixtyear, you can go on to Enforcement, or Ceremonies, or go live your life, basically."

"One Consul, one hundred Parliamentarians, and the Commander Guardslord."

"Ah, interesting. Do you maintain a large military?"

"Every boy of age sixteen must spend six years in the Force. It's called the 'sixtyear' among the men."

"Every boy of age sixteen must spend six years in the Force. It's called the 'sixtyear' among the men."

"Sixteen? Pretty young, in my reckoning. Guess you have to, with your small size and all."

"Small, hell. We own the seaspace for hundreds of miles. Our navy's the pride of the world."

"Small, hell. We own the seaspace for hundreds of miles. Our navy's the pride of the world."

"Well, I mean with a population of less than 20 million, your not exactly a Military Juggernaut"

"Hah. Who needs people with the Freelong Cannon? But really, all we want is our own security. Ah, but soon we'll be building extensions."

"Hah. Who needs people with the Freelong Cannon? But really, all we want is our own security. Ah, but soon we'll be building extensions."

"Freelong Cannon? Now what is that?"

"Basically, it's a huge cannon in the port. You should have seen it. Actually, it's called the Nivel Junon Cannon."

"Basically, it's a huge cannon in the port. You should have seen it. Actually, it's called the Nivel Junon Cannon."

"Can you tell me how it works, or is that classified?"

"Highly." Harrelson lowers his visor and looks into the mirror, his eyes narrowing. "You're a bit overinquisitive, sir."

"Highly."

"I see, then I will probe no further.", I wonder if it could stand up to a couple hundred nuclear warheads, he thought.

Jason stumbled off the dock, sill looking about. "Pfft. I bet the MoFA didn't even tell them I was coming." Digging through his pocket for a few coins, he set about looking for a cab.

ooc: He's already in a Kelvin steamcar, Iansisle!

(eh? I thought that was Lark's was that one - sorry!)

ooc: You're all in Kelvin steamcars.

(oh, all right)

Jason nodded at his driver, looking out the window at the scene rolling by. He didn't seem very into making conversation.

The driver grunts. "So, you here for the statue thing?"

OOC: to bed I go.

Jason looked up at the driver. "Yeah, suppose I am. Don't know: the MoFA was rather vague." He wanted to sink back into silence, but decided polite small talk would probably be the best. "So, uh, this is a fancy carriage."

"Kelvin Auto Steamcar."

"Yeah, right," ammended Jason. "That's what I meant. A steamcar..." He paused for a second. "What in blazes is a steamcar?"

"It's a car that rides on steam. Powered by sun and water, basically."

"Oh, right." Jason laughed. "When you said 'steam', I got this picture in my mind of an old coal burner, like the Bicycle."

"No, Marche is a paradise of cleanliness and purity. Well, other than Alvarez de Laguna Loco."

Jason rolled his eyes at the obvious bait, but decided to chomp on it anyway. "The Alvarez de Laguna Loco?" he asked, "What's that?" Sounds Ryansislean...

"Alvarez de Laguna Loco is the fifth island. The lake's said to drive people mad if they drink from it."

"Huh," nodded Jason, wondering how long the drive was going to be. Ah, to hell with it... "May I ask how long it will be before I arrive...ah...where I'm supposed to be going?"

"About an hour."

"An hour." Jason sighed and leaned back in his seat, finding a piece of hay jammed in his suit. "Well, it'll be a good chance to catch up, I suppose." He looked out the window again. "I know that I'm here to catch the unveiling of a statue of some sort, and that your leader is one..." He thought for a moment. "Edward Marche II, right? Maybe you could fill in some of the details for me?"

"There's to be a dinner with all the Parliamentarians and the Consul, then a display of archery skill, and then the unveiling and a speech."

"That sounds lovely," smiled Jason, his brain combatting his eyes' desire to roll. "Do you know if any other foreign ambassadors will be in attendence?"

"One from Agrigento, one from Larkinia. One from somewhere else, I think."

Jason laughed. "A regular New Highlands party, it seems." The news that representatives from friendly nations would be in attendence cheered his mind. He rested his head against the back of the seat. "It's a long trip out here from the 'wealth."

"New Highlands?"

"Oh, sorry. The Alliance of the New Highlands, or ANH. Agrigento, Larkinia, and Iansisle are all members."

"Ah. Suppose 'ere's no chance of Marche joining it, eh?"

Jason shrugged. "I'm, ah, not really with the ANH section of the MoFA. That's Lord Alexander's division. Sure, though, I suppose that the Marche Islands would be able to...seems to me they're...we're, I suppose... pretty open. The fact that three members are attending your ceremony may be a step in the right direction."

"Alliances would be good. A few less people to fire the Junon Cannon at, at least."

More bait. Jason tried to think of conversation material not involving asking what the cannon was, failed, and shrugged. "What's the Junon Cannon?"

"That cannon in the port. Fires something like a 500-caliber round."

Jason laughed slightly, assuming that the comment was supposed to be funny. He knew very little about weaponry himself, except that the guns protecting Troobodia Bay were very big, and the ones in Fort Manly were supposed to be even bigger. They were, of course, only 16"/45s or 16"/50s - well smaller than the gun his driver was describing. He decided to change the subject away from military technology. "Seems like a lovely country. Hard to believe it's only been around such a short time."

EDIT: I'm out for the night

"Well, we're efficient sorts. Hrm."

ooc: Seeya.

bump!

"Does the entire city run on Kelvin Steam power?"

"Most of it. There are parts that run off the windmills on Tribute."

"Most of it. There are parts that run off the windmills on Tribute."

"Windmills? Hmm... We use something like that, makes up about 20% of our national power. Coal and Oil, those are major industries...however Nuclear Power is on the rise."

"Hrmph. Jolian Precept 3: The earth is sacred, and shall not be marred: use what it gives you to prosper."

OOC: Hate bupmoing in like this, might join in in a bit, depends if those jerf offs in CS decide to put my net back up. Iansisle, did ya'll already vote me out of ANH or not? If you haven't you might want to start put proceedings forth, depending on how things go, I may leave on my own.

(there's a meeting on that subject under way somewhere.)

"Well, we're efficient sorts. Hrm."

Jason nodded. "Quite." He decided to try and avoid conversation for the remainder of the trip.

"Hrmph. Jolian Precept 3: The earth is sacred, and shall not be marred: use what it gives you to prosper."

"Oh, do you not misunderstand me, my nation is constantly striving to make a more efficent and earth friendly industry, but progress is slow and we are very cautious."

"I could quote the Sacred Precepts at you all day."

bvmp!

"I could quote the Sacred Precepts at you all day."

"Yes, consider how long this car ride is...I'm sure you can"

Jason squirmed somewhat in his seat. I hope they get that damn aeroflyer dock built soon, he thought, and put it a little closer to the...where I'm going!

OOC: On the recomendation of Iansisle, Lark, and Ag...

IC:

The nation of Imitora would like to open its diplomatic arms to the nation of the Marche Islands, and welcomes it to the political scene. With the permision of the March Islands government, we would like to send candadite Jenny Voss to officially open up relations. We await your response with great eagerness.

"Hm. Do we really want Imitora in any sort of alliance with us? We are lobbying for membership in the New Highlands alliance, and they've just been kicked out... Ah, f--- it. I'm not paid enough for this."

Special Diplomat Llewellyn 'Lyn' James stamps 'APPROVED' on the letter and passes it on.

----

The cars enter the gates of Marche.

Jason looked out the window of the steamcar, noting the gates with pleasure. He leaned back to the driver. "So, are we there, then?"

"Approximately. Let's see... 'Sun sets on the tower, dinner in an hour.' Old time song from the Parliament, that. I'll be taking you to the hotel where the dinner is to be held."

Christian looked out the window as the car slowed into the city.

Nice, glad we finally made it here.

As the cars stop, a rotund man in a grey suit walks out to greet them. Edwin Marche II shakes the hands of the diplomats.

Jason nodded, thanking the driver as his car ground to a hault. He stepped out next to Christian, nodding to the unfamiliar face. Jason wasn't sure he remembered Edwin Marche II's name correctly, and waited for someone else to introduce themselves lest he make a fool of the Commonwealth.

"I, sirs, am Consul Edwin Marche the Second. Consider yourselves welcomed to my country. If you wish to stay a few days after this event, I'm sure a tour of the Azure Isles can be arranged."

Edwin? Thank God - I was about to call him Edward! thought Jason in relief. "Consul Marche," greeted Jason, deciding to forgo first names all together as he bowed to the man, "I am Ambassador Jason Whittimere, from the Iansislean Commonwealth. Thank you so much for allowing us to join you on this magnificent occasion."

"Why, of course. In fact, my father, and the fathers of many Islanders, were Iansislean. We've been especially anxious to come into an alliance with your country."

"Indeed?" asked Jason, wishing the Foreign Affairs Ministry had set him up with better information. "I'm glad to hear that; the Commonwealth is always looking for new friends, and especially so in these troubled times." One might notice that Jason strayed away from the use of the word "Iansisle" and towards "Commonwealth".

The diplomats (including Imitora's, (s)he's just... magically there, I suppose) are lead into a grand hall. A grand round table is surrounded by the Parliament's seats, at a giant crescent table. The diplomats are seated with Marche, his wife Anna, and their daughter Alice.

Jenny, before sitting, approached Edwin. "Presideny Jenny Voss," she saidm extending her hand, "pleased to meet you," she finished, smiling.

A voice rings out. "All is holy, I am holy, Spirits save me from myself..."

Joliat James Xavier enters the room and sits at the circular table.
"Good evening, Eddo. Ah, Ms. Voss? I trust you and yours are well. Since Imitora did destroy the country that was once here, it's thought that we owe our existance to your country..."

Marche does a 'cut-throat' gesture at Xavier.

"Really, it's always been a mystery to me why exactly Alchemica was destroyed. At that point, the Jolian temple was in the capitol city there, and many of my fellow preists were killed. Ah, so sorry, I've forgotten to introduce myself. James Michael Xavier, Archjoliat of the Jolian Church."

Marche has an exasperated expression.

He walks over to Mr. Marche.

"Hello, I am Angelo Alleto, Chairman of the Senate Commitee on Economics.", said Angelo, often proclaimed the Economic wunderkind.

"Good evening, sir. I trust your trip was well? My chefs have created their best dish for us tonight, it shall be a spectacular dinner."

"Good evening, sir. I trust your trip was well? My chefs have created their best dish for us tonight, it shall be a spectacular dinner."

"Thank you for your hospitality. It has been a wonderful trip so far."

"We are always ready to welcome diplomacy."

Violins play, and the lights dim. Food is served, and an opera is performed, Vincent Carbonne's "Al Vivo."

Jason was content to take a back seat throughout most of the social hobnobbing, though he did enjoy listening to the conversations flying about. He had never actually been invited to an ANH meeting - Lord Alexander, there was another person he was jealous of - and this was fairly close to one, with both Larkinian and Agrigentian representitives. He sat through the opera, nodding. He had never been much of a fan, but didn't want to be rude to his hosts.

Jason was content to take a back seat throughout most of the social hobnobbing, though he did enjoy listening to the conversations flying about. He had never actually been invited to an ANH meeting - Lord Alexander, there was another person he was jealous of - and this was fairly close to one, with both Larkinian and Agrigentan (?) representitives. He sat through the opera, nodding. He had never been much of a fan, but didn't want to be rude to his hosts.

ooc: Agrigentian...otherwise its right.

The food is a massive feast, of anything from caviar to the Hamburg ground beef sandwich. The dinner ends without much event.

ooc: will have to go very soon.

(oh, ok - my bad.)

Jason still tried to keep out of the way of the conversation, eating enough not to be considered rude, but not so much that he would make himself uncomfortable later in the evening. Afterwards, he sat back, wondering what happened next, but not willing to confess his ignorance of the agenda to his hosts.

Christian sat back and enjoyed the meal. He'd kept quiet for most of the ceremony, he was a businessman, not a diplomat, and he'd been ordered not to cause an incident like that poor bastard Javin had.

He smiled and nodded to Jason and Angelo, it was nice to see some allies in the room.

Jason noted the Larkinian diplomat, and tipped his wine glass slightly to him before taking a sip.

(Javin's on the ropes?)

(ooc: Gone for the night...cya)

(Yeah, something about getting yelled at by two national leaders in Iansisle ;) didn't set too well with the new Parliament, he's in Roania currently on a mission with a medical crew trying to help keep their new king from dying)

Christian tipped his glass to Jason.

That's the young man from Iansisle, there'd been talk about asking him to be the Ambassador to Larkinia, maybe I'll get to talk to him about it.

(G'Night Ag!)

Jenny watched the procedings with intrest, taking mental notes as the night proceded on. She looked around the table, convorsation seemed dull, and deciding to try and make more of an impression, she sat down her ine glass, and spoke. "So, how about them Cowboys?"

OOC: Sorry, best I could do right now, doing one of those factbook thingys, and its friggen huge.

(oh, now I feel bad for yelling at him :( Hey, Hiresh could always put in a kind word, if you want. Oh, and I don't know if Jason'd be a station ambassador anywhere, except maybe someplace he hated, like Hell Bovines. The MoFA is...not terribly fond of him. :))

Jason caught the Larkinian ambassador's eyes again, trying to look away without making it look like he was trying to look away. This is the sort of thing they should have taught me, he thought.

Christian smiled at Jason.

I need to talk to him after this is over, maybe work something out about the embassy... god I wonder if he's as bored as I am...

(heh heh, Poor Javin, he's just like the parliament's whipping boy right now)

Jason returned the smile, wondering how long the opera was going to last.

Christian watched the opera, the stock ticker running in the optics of his left eye. He saw his company's stock run by, up 3 and 3/8, not too bad. He felt a gentle buzz from the cell phone in his pocket, he slid out of the seat and shimmered out of the room.

"Hello?" he asked picking up the phone, "This had better be an emergency."

The opera ends as the silver-haired character of David Solares throws himself into the cannon. "And so, a country was destroyed, and out of this destruction came our homes. Of life, is death, of creation, is destruction."

Marche wipes a tear from the corner of his eye. "A wonderful performance."

bvmp!

Jason wasn't really terribly moved by the piece - theatre wasn't one of his favorite past times, but he didn't want to offend his host. He looked over, noting that the Larkinian ambassador seemed to have vanished.

Christian shimmered back in the room just in time to stand and applaud with the rest of the audience.

Jason noticed the Larkinian return as the applause started. He clapped politely, wondering if he should go talk to the man. Jason sighed. It was the MoFA's wished that he extend every favor possible to other ANH members, and Larkinia in particular. As the applause died down, the Gadsanian edged his way over.

Christian looked around the room as the others started to leave for the exits. He saw the Iansislian ambassador approaching him.

He smiled and walked over, "Thrilling, absolutely thrilling. What in the hell was it about?" he asked as he extended his hand.

Jason laughed, glad to see the man seemed to be good-natured. "I agree, sir," he said, grasping the hand and shaking. "I don't speak Italian, though. Unless it was in English, in which case I don't speak that, either," he winked, looking around to make sure he wasn't insulting anyone. "I'm Ambassador Jason Whittimer, from the Iansislean Commonwealth. You're the Larkinian ambassador, correct?"

Christian smiled back, "True, I'm most fluent in 'Drunkenese', many, many years of study.. 'Ambassador'? I don't know about that. I am the Larkinian representative here, I drew the short straw this time, though."

He shook the man's hand, "I'm Christian Frankel. It's a pleasure to meet you Ambassador Whittimer."

Jason laughed polietly, still trying to make sure no Marche Islanders wandered close enough to hear him degrading their country. "I know all about that sort of thing," he winked. "I'm actually only an Ambassador Third Class, and Jason is fine."

Ambassador Whittimere was a fairly typical mid-lands Gadsanian, with dark brown hair and hazel eyes. He was short, like most Commonwealthers, and fairly fit, considering his job.

Jason laughed polietly, still trying to make sure no Marche Islanders wandered close enough to hear him degrading their country. "I know all about that sort of thing," he winked. "I'm actually only an Ambassador Third Class, and Jason is fine."

Ambassador Whittimere was a fairly typical mid-lands Gadsanian, with dark brown hair and hazel eyes. He was short, like most Commonwealthers, and fairly fit, considering his job.

"Well Jason, and that's fine as long as you call me Christian," Christian said with a smile. Noticing him look around, "I don't mean any offense to anyone, but we're still working out our new diplomatic system, given what happened, and drawing straws was what my office chose."

(Let me find Christian's description from earlier... "a tall, lean man with jet black hair and light blue eyes walked out wearing a black pinstriped suit")

"I think I'll be able to manage that," he smiled, suddenly noticing how much taller the other man was than him. He waved to a pair of chairs. "Shall we have a seat?" he asked, starting to lower himself down, unless Christian wanted to remain standing. "Nice country, though. Very...quaint."

"Yes, let's sit down," Christian said walking over with him. He looked around, "besides, it's time for a drink, tea, wine or something."

He nodded, "Yes it is a quaint country. I like what I've seen so far. But I think your country has a little more character than I've seen here yet."

Jason finished lowering himself into the chair, looking about to see what was going on, before turning back to Christian. "Character, eh?" he laughed. "I can't disagree with that - we've got so many characters in the government it makes me worry about the future!" Jason was laughing, indicating that it was a joke, but sometimes he really did worry about Iansisle's leadership. "I'm afraid I've never been to Larkinia," he continued, sipping at [insert delivered drink here], but couldn't keep the bitterness out of his next comment. "I don't get the high-profile assignments."

Marche returns to his seat. "Wonderful, wonderful. Based off of the destruction of Daezeman and the creation of these islands, that. Apparently, it all happened."

bvmp!

"So, how goes things in the Commonwealth?"

Jason finished lowering himself into the chair, looking about to see what was going on, before turning back to Christian. "Character, eh?" he laughed. "I can't disagree with that - we've got so many characters in the government it makes me worry about the future!" Jason was laughing, indicating that it was a joke, but sometimes he really did worry about Iansisle's leadership. "I'm afraid I've never been to Larkinia," he continued, sipping at [insert delivered drink here], but couldn't keep the bitterness out of his next comment. "I don't get the high-profile assignments."

"Larkinia a high-profile assignment?" Christian asked with a smile, "I don't know about that. You should find a way to blackmail your way to an assignment there. We've got an opening for an ambassador from Iansisle," he added with a wink.

"Too many characters in the government? That can be problematic, especially with all those agendas clashing."

"Larkinia a high-profile assignment?" Christian asked with a smile, "I don't know about that. You should find a way to blackmail your way to an assignment there. We've got an opening for an ambassador from Iansisle," he added with a wink.

"Too many characters in the government? That can be problematic, especially with all those agendas clashing."

"Aye, blackmail. That does seem to be the only way to get things done around the Commonwealth." He laughed - but was it a joke? After that, he considered Christian's words for a moment. "I'd need a promotion to Ambassador Second Class for that," he said. "Still, they say Quincy Johnson - the sultan of the MoFA, apparently - will be accepting a demotion to take Larkinia Station." He laughed. "Maybe they will make me the Ambassador First Class!"

"So, how goes things in the Commonwealth?"

Jason turned to meet the strange man, extending a hand. "Hullo - I don't believe we've had the pleasure. I'm Ambassador Third Class Jason Whittimere, from the Ians...well you seem to know that last bit, anyway," he winked, gesturing at a free chair. "Have a seat, sir."

"Larkinia a high-profile assignment?" Christian asked with a smile, "I don't know about that. You should find a way to blackmail your way to an assignment there. We've got an opening for an ambassador from Iansisle," he added with a wink.

"Too many characters in the government? That can be problematic, especially with all those agendas clashing."

"Aye, blackmail. That does seem to be the only way to get things done around the Commonwealth." He laughed - but was it a joke? After that, he considered Christian's words for a moment. "I'd need a promotion to Ambassador Second Class for that," he said. "Still, they say Quincy Johnson - the sultan of the MoFA, apparently - will be accepting a demotion to take Larkinia Station." He laughed. "Maybe they will make me the Ambassador First Class!"

"Really?" Christian asked, "That's interesting to know. Although I think I'd rather have you there. Johnson, from what I've heard, is a bit of a stick-in-the-mud. You'd probably... enjoy what Larkinia has to offer a little more. But Johnson seems to be one of those untouchable diplomats, like our ambassador to Iansisle. No one in the government seems to be able to dislodge him from that post, no matter how hard they try right now.

"But who knows, maybe you will get that promotion. I can't believe what they put you through in travel alone! You won't have to take that hay back, you'll be riding with me."

Jason couldn't help but laugh at hearing the greatest institution in the Commonwealth called a 'stick in the mud.' But... "You mean Sir Jeffery?" asked Jason, arching an eyebrow. Like all Iansisleans - and Gadsanians in particular - he had a special attachment to the Larkinian, even if he'd never met him. "Seems to be doing a pretty good job to me, at least."

"Ah, that's mighty kind of you, but the crew of the Bicycle will be expecting me back and all..." He paused. "What am I saying? Sir, I'd be honored if you'd give me a ride. That freighter smells like...well, like hay," he winked.

Jason couldn't help but laugh at hearing the greatest institution in the Commonwealth called a 'stick in the mud.' But... "You mean Sir Jeffery?" asked Jason, arching an eyebrow. Like all Iansisleans - and Gadsanians in particular - he had a special attachment to the Larkinian, even if he'd never met him. "Seems to be doing a pretty good job to me, at least."

"So is it true? The rumors I hear in the diplomatic grapevine? That he's.. ya know... never gone on a date?" Christian asked before clearing his throat. "Yes, Jeff, he's the one. Now I've never met him, and he seems like a good enough guy, but there are some people in the government who would don't think he's cut out to be a diplomat, they'd like to see him back aboard a ship."

"Ah, that's mighty kind of you, but the crew of the Bicycle will be expecting me back and all..." He paused. "What am I saying? Sir, I'd be honored if you'd give me a ride. That freighter smells like...well, like hay," he winked.

"I'm glad you said yes, mostly because I wouldn't accept 'no'. Jeez, you need to get a better travel agent, or work for a better group if they're not going to pay for you to travel in style."

So is it true? The rumors I hear in the diplomatic grapevine? That he's.. ya know... never gone on a date?" Christian asked before clearing his throat. "Yes, Jeff, he's the one. Now I've never met him, and he seems like a good enough guy, but there are some people in the government who would don't think he's cut out to be a diplomat, they'd like to see him back aboard a ship."

Jason smiled, shaking his . "I wouldn't be surprised, actually...about Quincy, that is. I think his sort bud in middle age - other than that, I can't think of where they all come from."

He took a sip. "Yeah, I've never met Sir Jeffery myself. Still, they say that movie, [i]The Hunter's Hunter - was based on his exploits." Jason laughed. "If even half that's true, I can see why they want him back in the military!"

"I'm glad you said yes, mostly because I wouldn't accept 'no'. Jeez, you need to get a better travel agent, or work for a better group if they're not going to pay for you to travel in style."

"Well, I'd never dare speak ill of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs," started Jason, "but they're cheap bastards. 'Sides, most of the Bankfields have been shuffled over to the military for the duration (of the war)." He listened to himself continue to make the Ministry's excuses. "I notice that his majesty the Ambassador Johnson never has to haul hay," he groused at the end, not sure where the entire rant had gone.

Jason smiled, shaking his . "I wouldn't be surprised, actually...about Quincy, that is. I think his sort bud in middle age - other than that, I can't think of where they all come from."

He took a sip. "Yeah, I've never met Sir Jeffery myself. Still, they say that movie, [i]The Hunter's Hunter - was based on his exploits." Jason laughed. "If even half that's true, I can see why they want him back in the military!"

"Yes, there are a few like that in the diplomatic offices in Larkinia. These career diplomats who are burrowed in like bears for the winter.

"Oh god, the rumors about that movie being based on his life are true?" Christian chuckled, "Parliament's going to be asking for their cut of the profits, and knowing those gasbags, they'll take it out of his pay," he added with a wink.

"Well, I'd never dare speak ill of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs," started Jason, "but they're cheap bastards. 'Sides, most of the Bankfields have been shuffled over to the military for the duration (of the war)." He listened to himself continue to make the Ministry's excuses. "I notice that his majesty the Ambassador Johnson never has to haul hay," he groused at the end, not sure where the entire rant had gone.

"Oh go ahead and say what you want to," he added as Jason started.

"Really? He never had to haul hay? Well he is getting older, and less... capable. As is apparent from his lack of a dating life," Christian winked.

"Have you ever thought of life outside of the diplomatic service? I'm sure a business in Iansisle could you someone of your talents to do international work for them."

"Oh god, the rumors about that movie being based on his life are true?" Christian chuckled, "Parliament's going to be asking for their cut of the profits, and knowing those gasbags, they'll take it out of his pay," he added with a wink.

"From what I hear," shrugged Jason. "IanCorp'd never admit to it, of course - they haven't yet." Hearing about the Parliamentary gasbags, he laughed. "Reminds me of our own C.C.P., or the Speaker's Assembly in Gadsan." He waved his drink slightly. "Just between you an' me, Christian, I sometimes think us Gadsanians have more in common with your own country than with the Empire."

"Really? He never had to haul hay? Well he is getting older, and less... capable. As is apparent from his lack of a dating life," Christian winked.

"Have you ever thought of life outside of the diplomatic service? I'm sure a business in Iansisle could you someone of your talents to do international work for them."

That one made Jason laugh out loud with some volume, which was a little unusual. He checked his drink, and put it subtly aside.

"I have, several times. But my father, and his father ... and his father, they were all diplomats. All made Second Class, too, and my father nearly made First." He paused for just a second - hardly even worthy of being noted - before continuing. "I don't think I'll ever make it past Third."

"From what I hear," shrugged Jason. "IanCorp'd never admit to it, of course - they haven't yet." Hearing about the Parliamentary gasbags, he laughed. "Reminds me of our own C.C.P., or the Speaker's Assembly in Gadsan." He waved his drink slightly. "Just between you an' me, Christian, I sometimes think us Gadsanians have more in common with your own country than with the Empire."

"Yes, I've heard about the C.C.P., all second hand knowledge. That they're lucky to ever get anything accomplished." Christian said sipping the *insert drink here*.


That one made Jason laugh out loud with some volume, which was a little unusual. He checked his drink, and put it subtly aside.

"I have, several times. But my father, and his father ... and his father, they were all diplomats. All made Second Class, too, and my father nearly made First." He paused for just a second - hardly even worthy of being noted - before continuing. "I don't think I'll ever make it past Third."

"Really? That's a travesty for someone of your talents! A damn shame! If you want to hang in there, I'm sure you'll get a promotion," Christian said. "Do you enjoy what you do?"

"Yes, I've heard about the C.C.P., all second hand knowledge. That they're lucky to ever get anything accomplished." Christian said sipping the *insert drink here*.

"Heh, that's the truth," agreed Jason. "Bunch of politicians - he seemed to stress the word - "running about like headless chickens." He shrugged. "But that Galler...pardon me, that Gallagan, they have as Prime Minister now seems fairly effective. Maybe he'll be able to restore their good name." He laughed at the thought.


"Really? That's a travesty for someone of your talents! A damn shame! If you want to hang in there, I'm sure you'll get a promotion," Christian said. "Do you enjoy what you do?"

Jason considered that one for a while. "No. I suppose I don't. They're always sending me out on the worst missions - running off to the wedding of a cow and a hampster, greeting some brand new crackpot dictatorship - I wouldn't be surprised if I became Ambassador to Johnson's pet turtle next."

"Heh, that's the truth," agreed Jason. "Bunch of politicians - he seemed to stress the word - "running about like headless chickens." He shrugged. "But that Galler...pardon me, that Gallagan, they have as Prime Minister now seems fairly effective. Maybe he'll be able to restore their good name." He laughed at the thought.

"Yeah, like the saying goes, 'Politicians, can't live with them, can't kill them (they'd spoil the landscape). Well, hopefully a strong leader is what they need to whip them into shape."


Jason considered that one for a while. "No. I suppose I don't. They're always sending me out on the worst missions - running off to the wedding of a cow and a hampster, greeting some brand new crackpot dictatorship - I wouldn't be surprised if I became Ambassador to Johnson's pet turtle next."

Christian laughed so hard he almost sprayed his drink. "A WHAT?? Dear god! Was it at least a 'mooooo'-ving ceremony? I'll bet their first few nights were 'hare'-raising."

Christian sat back a moment and sipped his drink. "Jason, what would you say to a job interview?"

Jason sat back to consider that, grinning slightly at the puns. He'd heard most of them before, but that didn't make 'em unfunny.

"A job interview?" he asked, looking over his shoulder as if the Lord MacIntyre would be standing right there. "What sort of job...interview?" His voice dropped slightly.

Christian smiled at him, "There are a few businesses in Larkinia that I know of that are looking for people who are smart, well-spoken and charming to start negotiations with other businesses and other nations. If you're interested, then I can line one or two up for you. Your housing taken care of, an actual expense account, your travel..."

Jason smiled. The idea of leaving the MoFA had occured to him once or twice, but leaving the Commonwealth! It was exciting, and certainly sounded as if it had its benefits. "Well, Christian," he started, speaking carefully, "naturally, I'd jump at a chance like that. However, I do worry - I have to support my father in his old age, and in the service is anything, it's a reliable paycheck..." Like most Commonwealthers, Jason was naturally worried about keeping his wallet safe first and foremost.

"Of course, I understand that," Christian said. "And in private practice, you'll make enough to support yourself, your dad, and half a harem if you're good. But there's no rush, take some time to think it over. If you're interested and don't want your bosses to find out, since most don't like their best employees leaving, we can work around that.

"What's Gadsan like? I've never been there."

Jason smiled at the prospect that Christian was talking about. "I'm glad you can see things from my point of view," he smiled, flashing what were unusually healthy teeth for a Commonwealther. "I am most interested, and I think it may be better if...certain individuals didn't find out."

"Gadsan? It's home, mostly. I'm from Lakeriverwood, which is about halfway between the Mouths of the Jaizar and the Effitian border. It's also at the narrowest part of the Jaizar, making it a convienient place for the iron ore barges going downriver to lay over, so they can force the passage in the morning. And while they're in port, we make a good amount of money," he smiled. "Mainly," he added, realizing that he hadn't really explained much, "it's the River. The Jaizar is the heart, soul, and lifeforce of Gadsan. Without it, we'd still have the ore deposits, but shipping it by rail to the Shield and Noropia would be a pain in the neck."

(Speaking of Gadsanian iron ore, I'm thinking of an RP I'll probably post in the next couple of days; one that won't really have much to do with our major characters - at first ;)

By the way, what's up with that other thread? Are we waiting for Imitora?)

Jason smiled at the prospect that Christian was talking about. "I'm glad you can see things from my point of view," he smiled, flashing what were unusually healthy teeth for a Commonwealther. "I am most interested, and I think it may be better if...certain individuals didn't find out."

"Ah, I do understand," Christian said. "It's hard to leave a steady paycheck, but I'll make some calls and see what I can find out. A couple of friends went to business school with me...

"We can set you up for a... vacation, to Larkinia. All expenses paid for you to visit and an interview, if you decide you want to give it a shot."

"Gadsan? It's home, mostly. I'm from Lakeriverwood, which is about halfway between the Mouths of the Jaizar and the Effitian border. It's also at the narrowest part of the Jaizar, making it a convienient place for the iron ore barges going downriver to lay over, so they can force the passage in the morning. And while they're in port, we make a good amount of money," he smiled. "Mainly," he added, realizing that he hadn't really explained much, "it's the River. The Jaizar is the heart, soul, and lifeforce of Gadsan. Without it, we'd still have the ore deposits, but shipping it by rail to the Shield and Noropia would be a pain in the neck."

"Really? It sounds fairly interesting! Do you get to spend much time in Lakeriverwood, or are you always out and about?"

"Ah, I do understand," Christian said. "It's hard to leave a steady paycheck, but I'll make some calls and see what I can find out. A couple of friends went to business school with me...

"We can set you up for a... vacation, to Larkinia. All expenses paid for you to visit and an interview, if you decide you want to give it a shot."

(I'm rather scared to find out who these 'friends' are :P )

"A vacation?" grinned Jason. "That sounds perfect - I can only imagine how glad those Ianapalis powerbrokers will be to have me out of their hair for a couple weeks!" He chuckled softly at the thought. "I'll give it as many shots as I have to - this sounds great!"

"Really? It sounds fairly interesting! Do you get to spend much time in Lakeriverwood, or are you always out and about?"

"I spend as much time as I can there, staying with father. Of course, the MoFA does everything in Ianapalis - and I swear I've attended as many training seminars as any two other people in the service combined!"

(I'm rather scared to find out who these 'friends' are :P )

"A vacation?" grinned Jason. "That sounds perfect - I can only imagine how glad those Ianapalis powerbrokers will be to have me out of their hair for a couple weeks!" He chuckled softly at the thought. "I'll give it as many shots as I have to - this sounds great!"

( :lol: Don't ask.. it's better that way ;) )

"Well then," Christian said, "We can line up a couple of interviews later this month. Give you some time to go back and line up some vacation time."

"I spend as much time as I can there, staying with father. Of course, the MoFA does everything in Ianapalis - and I swear I've attended as many training seminars as any two other people in the service combined!"

"Why all the seminars? I understand wanting to be more qualified than anyone else in the building," he winked.

( :lol: Don't ask.. it's better that way ;) )

"Well then," Christian said, "We can line up a couple of interviews later this month. Give you some time to go back and line up some vacation time."

(Oh, crikey. Hoot's gone and started a business! ;) Anyhow, every time I see Christian, I think I see Christin - then I get confused about what thread I'm in. I really should sleep...later :))

"That sounds good," nodded Jason. "Is there any sort of telephone number at which I can reach your friends, for when I have the time lined up?"

"Why all the seminars? I understand wanting to be more qualified than anyone else in the building," he winked.

Jason laughed. "That was a motivation at first...then it was just want of anything to do. I suppose the sort of situations they love to send me into only pop up once in a blue moon. I'd love to spend that time back in L.R.W., but they don't pay me for sitting around doing nothing at home - only in the office!" he grinned.

(Oh, crikey. Hoot's gone and started a business! ;) Anyhow, every time I see Christian, I think I see Christin - then I get confused about what thread I'm in. I really should sleep...later :))

"That sounds good," nodded Jason. "Is there any sort of telephone number at which I can reach your friends, for when I have the time lined up?"

(if it were only Hoot starting a business... ;) )

"Sure," Christian handed Jason his business card.

Christian Frankel
Independant Counsel, Akani Technology
5432-353-2456


And the other side said

Christian Frankel
Special Attache, Government of Larkinia
5432-303-3095


Jason laughed. "That was a motivation at first...then it was just want of anything to do. I suppose the sort of situations they love to send me into only pop up once in a blue moon. I'd love to spend that time back in L.R.W., but they don't pay me for sitting around doing nothing at home - only in the office!" he grinned.

"Yeah, they should know better though. Someone with your interest and drive shouldn't be pushing pencils and unloading hay. Spend some time with your dad, go fishing if you like that. Remember life's far too short, enjoy what time you've got."

(that really made little sense on my part...I typed "I should sleep. Later." when I meant "I should sleep later." I think. Augh. ;))

Jason considered the business card, flipping it back and forth a couple times while he tried to place 'Akani Technology', and failed. "Thanks," he smiled, slipping the card into a thin leather wallet - since all Iansislean currency was carried in a change purse, the wallet was a device quite limited in its use, and most males didn't even bother to carry one.

"Yeah, they should know better though. Someone with your interest and drive shouldn't be pushing pencils and unloading hay. Spend some time with your dad, go fishing if you like that. Remember life's far too short, enjoy what time you've got."

"I can't say fishing's ever been a hobby - all I've ever managed to catch was my thumb," laughed Jason, "but your point is well taken. I look forward to working together - or against each other?" he theorized with an arched eyebrow and a chuckle.

(that really made little sense on my part...I typed "I should sleep. Later." when I meant "I should sleep later." I think. Augh. ;))

(LOL, now you've got me confused...)

Jason considered the business card, flipping it back and forth a couple times while he tried to place 'Akani Technology', and failed. "Thanks," he smiled, slipping the card into a thin leather wallet - since all Iansislean currency was carried in a change purse, the wallet was a device quite limited in its use, and most males didn't even bother to carry one.

"Not a problem," Christian said. "It's one of the benefits working in Larkinia's Foreign Affairs office, right now they're in flux, and if you want to work outside the agency, you can."

"I can't say fishing's ever been a hobby - all I've ever managed to catch was my thumb," laughed Jason, "but your point is well taken. I look forward to working together - or against each other?" he theorized with an arched eyebrow and a chuckle.

Christian raised his drink, "Here's to cooperation... or competition. Either way, here's to hoping there is a brighter future ahead."

(I think I should go to sleep, though..it's been a long day. Later, man)

Jason chuckled along with Christian, before fumbling for his own drink. "To adversarial comradeship!" he agreed. "Or something like that, anyhow!" Jason added with a laugh.

Marche clears his throat. He arrives at the podium on the now-cleared stage.

"Friends, parliamentarians, ambassadors, we have gathered here once again for a famous Marcher party. If you will all follow me out to the fairgrounds, the Watch has organised an exhibition of their talents. I, myself, am far too round for that sort of thing anymore," he chuckles, "But I'm sure Ivan's men will treat you to a very good show."

Jason chuckled at Edwin's joke, shooting a glance over at Christian. Famous? After the short speech was over, he applauded briefly, standing to see where he was supposed to go.

Jason chuckled at Edwin's joke, shooting a glance over at Christian. Famous? After the short speech was over, he applauded briefly, standing to see where he was supposed to go.

Christian caught Jason's glance and winked, also applauding after the speech ended.

"Famous... I didn't know they could tell the future," he whispered with a grin.

(Bump)

Christian walked to the fairgrounds with Jason after Marche's statement.

"This should be interesting. Archery, how very..." he groped (like Arnold on a movie set ;)) for the word he was looking for, "quaint?"

"Archery, great skill, great sport and great talent. Common practice for high school gym classes, though I think its military usefulness in the Republic has run out.

"True, I imagine a bow vs. a rifle wouldn't be a fair fight. Still it should be interesting to watch," Christian said smiling at the man. "I don't believe we've been properly introduced. I'm Christian Frankel, Larkinian Foreign Affairs attache."

"Angelo, Angelo Alleta, Chairman of the Senate Commitee on Economics", he said, extending his hand.

-Freaking weird-ass double post-

"It's great to meet you sir," he said offering his hand to Angelo.

(heh, sorry I kept vanishing. I should be on for a good amount of time now ;).)

Jason strode slowly, trying to match his pace like that seminar last week had taught him. It was harder in practice than in theory. "Quaint is an interesting way of putting it. Archery is a skill that's...fallen out of practice in the Commonwealth since the days before the Conquest." He shrugged, listening as Angelo joined the group, then extending a hand for shaking. "Good day, Chairman Alleta," he smiled, "I'm Ambassador Third Class Jason Whitimere, from the Iansislean Commonwealth."

(heh, sorry I kept vanishing. I should be on for a good amount of time now ;).)

Jason strode slowly, trying to match his pace like that seminar last week had taught him. It was harder in practice than in theory. "Quaint is an interesting way of putting it. Archery is a skill that's...fallen out of practice in the Commonwealth since the days before the Conquest." He shrugged, listening as Angelo joined the group, then extending a hand for shaking. "Good day, Chairman Alleta," he smiled, "I'm Ambassador Third Class Jason Whitimere, from the Iansislean Commonwealth."

"Hello Jason and Christian, what do you think of the proceedings so far?"

(i'm going to sleep, so tired...NYC is um...big)

"Hello Jason and Christian, what do you think of the proceedings so far?"

(i'm going to sleep, so tired...NYC is um...big)

(Yeah, yeah, rub it in for those of us in the Hinterlands... ;) G'Night Ag!)

"They are quite different, as I was mentioning to Ambassador Whitimere," Christian said. "The opera was... well... it was an opera."

(Bah - Game One, 1998 World Series, Tino Martinez struck out. Donnie Wall threw a strike. Bah. *walks off to grumble in the corner* ;))

"Different is an interesting way of putting it," smiled Jason. He glanced over in Marche's direction. "Do you you suppose we ought to be introducing ourselves to him?"

(speaking of baseball... mad props to Don Zimmer for having the balls to go after Pedro. Balls, yes. Brains... no. ;) )

"Maybe we should," Christian said. "But we should wait until he's not busy, I'd hate to interrupt him."

Christian turned to Jason, "Excuse me a moment. I'll be right back."

He took a couple of steps away and pulled out his cell phone. "Hello? Yes, all right... Things are going well here, I'll be back soon... OK... Bye."

He walked back, "Sorry about that."

(hehe....is it bad when you're still carrying a grudge from one moment in one world series game five years later? And take some sick pleasure from a 72 year old man being taken down by an atheletic pitcher? ;))

"Good point," agreed Jason. "Of course, take all the time you need." When Christian returned, he looked up. "Anything wrong?"

"Thank you, I apologize for that," Christian said. "No, nothing's wrong. Just my girlfriend. So you said you're not big on fishing, what do you like to do in your spare time?"

Edit: (and I'm outta here tonight, got a long night ahead of me, finishing moving into my new apartment so my access will be iffy for the next couple days)

Jason laughed at the question, but realized he didn't have a ready response. What did he do with his free time now? Ever since joining the ambassadorial corps, it seemed like he spent all his time at the pub being bitter. But that would hardly do as an answer.

"That's a tricky question," he mused, thinking quickly. "I do enjoy poking fun at Ambassador Johnson or the Lord MacIntyre, as well as a good game of darts." There - that was true enough, but not so true as to be embarassing.

(night, man! Good luck with the new apartment!)

(ooc: Its a pity that the fact that Roger outpitched Pedro on his last ever game at Fenway Park was eclipsed by Manny's over-reaction and Pedro's "Im going to hit you next" taunts)

(No kidding, as much as I can't stand Pedro, he's one hell of a pitcher. Doesn't he have a winning record vs. Clemens? Manny... heh, doesn't he have to go fake getting sick and get caught in a bar again? Or am I thinking of someone else? ;) )

"Poking fun at Ambassador Johnson? I can't really blame you," Christian grinned. "I couldn't have guessed that from our conversation," he added with a warm chuckle.

"I wish I knew who this Son of John is."

bump, bc its a slow night

"I wish I knew who this Son of John is."
Christian grinned, "He's Iansisle's greatest muckity-muc... er... most noble Ambassador to the universe, according to the diplomatic circles I hang in."

Christian grinned, "He's Iansisle's greatest muckity-muc... er... most noble Ambassador to the universe, according to the diplomatic circles I hang in."

"Ah, I see. I am un-accustomed to such names, and my english is not the best, so for a moment I thought there was only one John in that nation, and he had only one son, whom you were talking about."

"Ah, I understand," Christian said with a smile. "I believe it is a very common name in Iansisle, I guess the original John had a lot of kids."

"Ah, I understand," Christian said with a smile. "I believe it is a very common name in Iansisle, I guess the original John had a lot of kids."

"Haha, his wife must have been an hardy one.", he said with a laugh.

"Haha, his wife must have been an hardy one.", he said with a laugh.

Christian laughed at the thought. "Well, maybe he had a harem. But I have to be impressed with his..." thinking of the right word he grinned, "extraordinary recuperation ability."

Christian laughed at the thought. "Well, maybe he had a harem. But I have to be impressed with his..." thinking of the right word he grinned, "extraordinary recuperation ability."

"Yes, Casanova would be jealous", he looked up, "Now, if you don't mind my candicy, what do you personally think of this Marche character?"

"Well sir," Christian said. "I haven't met him yet. He seems like an interesting fellow. I'm looking forward to talking with him when the need arises. I will keep an open mind for my government, because things are not always as they seem. Have you met him?"

"Well sir," Christian said. "I haven't met him yet. He seems like an interesting fellow. I'm looking forward to talking with him when the need arises. I will keep an open mind for my government, because things are not always as they seem. Have you met him?"

"I believe I meet him breifly, but not well enough to really know the man. I do not mean to be rude, but this whole 'Steam Car, Huge Cannon in the Bay thing' is a lil' creepy to me"

"Yes, I understand, they are.. interesting developments to be sure. While I'm looking forward to seeing the technology behind their Aerodynes..."

Because I'm sure Akani would love to have it...

"... I don't understand their need to have a huge cannon in the bay. It is a little creepy to look out and see that gun sitting there. I wonder if it even works..."

"Yes, it is an unsettling sight. If it does fire conventional shells I wonder how accurate, and damaging it could be..." Maybe there is a way to find out.... "Now what really interests me, as it is my area of knowledge, is what kind of exports this small island has, and what imports it demands."

Christian nodded, "Something that large might have a great range, but I'll bet it's crap for accuracy.

"That's right. When you are done talking to Marche, then maybe we could talk about opening up more markets between Larkinia and Agrigento. I've been hoping to talk to someone from Agrigento about that, and you appear to be just the man."

Christian nodded, "Something that large might have a great range, but I'll bet it's crap for accuracy.

"That's right. When you are done talking to Marche, then maybe we could talk about opening up more markets between Larkinia and Agrigento. I've been hoping to talk to someone from Agrigento about that, and you appear to be just the man."

"Oh, your right. We should have talked sooner, I suppose that is my fault as well for not contacting your nation. Perhaps we can get down to business later."

Christian nodded, "Something that large might have a great range, but I'll bet it's crap for accuracy.

"That's right. When you are done talking to Marche, then maybe we could talk about opening up more markets between Larkinia and Agrigento. I've been hoping to talk to someone from Agrigento about that, and you appear to be just the man."

"Oh, your right. We should have talked sooner, I suppose that is my fault as well for not contacting your nation. Perhaps we can get down to business later."

"Well, given the election debacle, I don't blame you for waiting to see who came out on top. You wouldn't have known which of the two groups was the rightful government, and it would have been hard to negotiate with two different leaders at the same time."

"Indeed, that election had us all a bit worried. I'm glad to see that the transition of power went smooth enough."

"Well... er... yes. People slowly came to the realization that it would be a bad idea for the country to get ripped into an actual civil war. And the people responsible are sitting safely in prison right now.

"So what kinds of sports do you like to play in Agrigento?" Christian asked.

"So what kinds of sports do you like to play in Agrigento?" Christian asked.

"Oh baseball, and football - though I beleve you call it Soccer. They are the two favorites, although we like to support all athletic activities, a healthy population is a healthy country."

"Oh I totally agree with you. Like the saying goes, 'A sound mind in a sound body'," Christian said. "Soccer, that hasn't grown in Larkinia like most people thought it would. Although there is still hope for that eventually. We've got some pretty good youth players training together."

"Oh I totally agree with you. Like the saying goes, 'A sound mind in a sound body'," Christian said. "Soccer, that hasn't grown in Larkinia like most people thought it would. Although there is still hope for that eventually. We've got some pretty good youth players training together."

"Ah, it is really a very interesting sport, but I'm a diehard Legion fan. I was pretty good at Baseball myself, could have made it big - or atleast thats what I was told."

"Really?" Christian asked. "Did your career im politics interrupt your athletic career?"

"Really?" Christian asked. "Did your career im politics interrupt your athletic career?"

"Well, for me it wasn't much of a choice. Baseball players, until very recently didn't make much money and I was offered a very high ranking position in the government. Now that I think back, with the huge pay raises going around, I wonder if I made the right choice...but it is not good to dwell on such things."

"True enough," Christian agreed. "Tell me about Agrigento, I've never been there. As I look at it now, my travels have never taken me to any ANH countries..."

"Agrigento is a truly beautiful place, but I guess I am little partial. The trees meet the mountains, raging rivers meet the calm waters of the Azorean Sea, and the hills of Saldenia contrast perfectly with the plains of the northern regioni.....the calm and scenic countryside is nothing like the heated political landscape however. The two major parties, the Federalists and the Labor Party, are bitter rivals, and although the Federalist is favored greatly by the people, the Labor party has a tremendous power base and almost completely control of the Unions. Throw in about a million other ideologicly distinct parties, and you have a glimpse into the chaos of election time. Through this all however, our people remain filled with a passion, and love for their country...patriotism and nationalism is our greatest asset. Our people will not repeat the wars caused by regionalism in our past", he pauses, "....I'm sorry to rant, I do it from time to time. Now please tell me about Larkinia."

Christian thought a moment about his question. "Well, Larkinia's a beautiful country. There are mountain ranges as far as the eye can see. Golden Agate, the capital city, is located in the northern part of the Sandias Mountain range. The mountains are to the east and north a little. Off to the southwest of the city is a group of extinct volcanos, at least they hope they are extinct," he said with a wink.

"Watching the sunset over the volcanos, if you turn to face the mountains they turn the most extraordinary red and orange.

"Further north of Golden Agate, you'll find the Fire Sea, called that because of the red coral you can see through the water. Lyone is the major harbor city on that sea. And a little further into the sea is the Military prison, located on some small islands.

"If you go beyond the Sandias east, then you come across some plains. Great farmland out there, and some of the best forests I've ever seen. Two days drive from Golden Agate is the Eastern Range, another group of mountains. They stay covered in snow almost the entire year. It's one of the best places in the region to go skiing or hiking.

"There's a desert to the west. Hot and sometimes formidable, but worth the trouble if you're out there at night. The sand is white, and when the moonlight and starlight sparkle over it, it's so bright, and it looks like snow..."

OOC: so...tired...go...I...must...goodnight.

OOC: G'Night, get some decent rest!

Jason sat back and listened to the discussion about the other ANH countries. Sitting here, hobnobbing with the ambassadors from two of Iansisle's most trusted and respected allies, he felt... important. Of course, the Lord MacIntyre - or whoever it was that carried the grudge against him - wouldn't have sent him here if they knew Agrigento and Larkinia would also be attending. Too much chance for exposure, he supposed.

When sports were being discussed, he mentioned that baseball was the favorite sport on the Shield and in Gadsan, ice hockey in Noropia, and old-world football in the southern Dominions and the colonies. He was a fan of the Lakeriverwood Irvings, who had narrowly lost the Iansisle Series to the Harbor City Longshoremen to win the right to represent Iansisle in the NSMLB season. (which reminds me, mad props to Agrigento for winning his divisional series and advancing to the LCS!)

Marche stands, and clears his throat. "According to a message I have just recieved, the Junon Bay Cannon is going to test fire in but a few minutes. All other vessels have been cleared from the trajectory, and a large, derilict ship has been placed. If you will all direct your attention to the screen behind you, the Junon Cannon."

The wall lights up, and a quiet voice speaks. "Junon test... is the target in place?"

Another voice replies, "Affirmative. Light her up."

"Affirmative."

The barrel glows red as the target comes within view, sixty miles away. The screen in front of Gunner James McCauley reads, [FIRE], and he presses the button.

The cannon is pushed back with the recoil from the gigantic shot. The target is utterly destroyed, and the shot continues to skip for another hundred miles.

"As you can see," Marche says with a tight smile, "It's a very, very powerful weapon. We, of course, only use it for defense, but... It would not be intelligent to come on the wrong end of a Caleb round."

"Now. If you will all follow me out to the grounds..."

"Hmm..very impressive." I wonder how really effective it would be, as anything more than a moral weapon.

The green-clad Archery Guard marches onto the field. Sixteen targets are set up.

"This is the national sport of these islands. Tonight is a special show, as our pyrotechnical expert has just returned from hospital, where he was recovering from his last show. And so, this show is the Flaming Testicle Show, because we let the Commander's fifteen year old son choose the name. Set to!"

ooc: Imitora, I'm amazed Voss didn't get angry at Joliat Xavier's comments. hint, hint.

Jason, who had been expecting the Junon Cannon to simply be an upscaled version of Iansisle's shore defense batteries, had to admit he was impressed by the display. The superheavy 2,750 lb 16" shells used by Iansisle's large 16"/50 gun only had about a range of 44,000 yards at 30º elevation, much less impressive than the display he had just seen. Of course, Jason was no military man.

Jason sat back to watch the pyrotechnic display, a little offended at the name and worried about what put the operator in the hospital.

The first arrow is shot by an over-large man, who literally splits the target in half. The next is a crossbow bolt, which explodes and cuts the target to pieces.

Then the pyrotechnics expert comes out, to cheers from the crowd. "Right-o! Those six months getting new skin were worth it, and I'm back! It's time for the 'flaming' part of the Flaming Testicle!"

He assembles an arrow, and fires it off. It explodes like a traditional firecracker. "There we go!"

He lights a huge arrow, and it shoots off by itself, coursing about and finally falling to his hand, dramatically smaller. It crackles and grins, and puts itself out in a shower of sparks.

"Okay! Now it's time for a volunteer! See, this time I'm not putting myself in the line of fire."

A woman stands up. "Roy! Take me! Take me!"

"Well, I'd be just fine with that, but I'm married, ya see." He blinks. "Oh, right, of course."

She is outfitted as a giant arrow, and a giant crossbow is wheeled out. "Don't worry, folks, she knows what she's doing. Don't try this at home."

He reels back and fires her away into the sky. Rockets fire, launching her higher, and twirl off to explode. The costume tears off, and she performs a perfect swan-dive into the bay.

ooc: Imitora, I'm amazed Voss didn't get angry at Joliat Xavier's comments. hint, hint.

OOC: Havent been able to follow this, what was it? And do you really want another country destroyed so fast?

ooc: Oh, right, I forgot. First rule of Imitoran conflict: "Shoot first. Questions? What questions?" No, you shitass! I wanted a little friendly jabber back and forth! Basically, he was trying to stir her up, as is his custom.

OOC: Blow me f*ck nut. What was the comment, and I'll respond, kinda busy dealing with soemthign right now to go look back.

ooc: Damn, man. You should know that all sarcasm and 'dirty' words are heavily salted coming from me. And don't worry about it now.

Hm, ok.

ooc: "Can't we all just get along??" *gunshot*....

ooc: "Can't we all just get along??" *gunshot*....

OOC: *Shakes Magic 8 Ball* And the answer is...

No chance in hell... ;)

(Man, I wish MY magic-8 ball would say that. It always gives me that "Ask again later" crap. What, is it having a party in there, and is too busy to answer a yes-or-no question?

*walks away grumbling*)

(ooc: Im watching Fists of Fury and it really is mind-boggling how dumb Bruce Lee's enemies are. I mean he just beat up 20 of your best men...and you think that killing all 12 of his cousins and kidnapping his girlfriend is going to make him less angry???)