NationStates Jolt Archive

The city of New Koln spreads out before High Prince Taka and Princess Ami as the Windjammer sonic jet carrying them and Princess Ami's soon to be husband Crown Prince Rowald along with his father Emperor Gustav Alderman I to the capital city of the Empire of Valinon.
"Welcome to New Koln," Gustav says looking out the window himself.
The city is a tribute to an Empire enjoying the beginnings of a golden age. Valinon's graceful architecture fills the eye's expanse, seeming to meld into the pattern of the land. The Windjammer flies over the ridge where the main aerospace port of New Koln is, and moves across the bustling city. It moves toward the area of the city known as Imperial Center. Surrounded by the beautiful campus of the Imperial University and the solemn structure of St. Lillith's Cathedral on one side and the sprawling Commerica and vast Square of Marshals on the other stands a long, rather large island in the middle of the Luthien river that bisects New Koln.
"And that is Imperial Center," says Rowald standing next to Ami. On one end of the island is the Imperial Palace, a massive edifice surrounded by expansive grounds and encompassed by a white marble wall, matching the Palace itself with turrets capped in golden domes like the Palace turrets. On the other end stands the massive Imperial Congressional Building, a huge dual domed chamber building housing both Congress of the Imperial Diet. And in between them both is a long, marble paved road that is flanked by statues of statesmen and the Emperors of House Alderman. Along the road between the Palace and the Congressional Building are the various central offices of the Ministries, including foreign affairs, colonial affairs, justice, and the state security ministries.
The internal comm activates, "Your Majesty, we are preparing to land at the Palace, I humbly request that you and your most noble guests take your seats," comes the voice of an Imperial Sovereign Protector.
"Ah, good," says the already seated Gustav. "We will be there soon enough."

President Villanova recieved the invitation and replied quite quickly.

To His Majesty, Emperor Gustav Alderman I,

I have recieved your invitation and will be attending the ceremony. Transport will not be needed as fortuitously I will be heading in that general direction shortly on another matter. I will expect to arrive shortly for the event.

Regards,
President Fidelo Villanova,
Republic of Sunset

---

As soon as he was done with the reply he contacted Admiral Filbeck and informed her of a change in plans. The James Cook would be going first to Proxima Centauri, then to Ares.

A jet taxis down the runway of Tristram's main space port. The capital of the Grand Duchy of New Ortaga gleams in the night. Aboard the jet Archduke Raphael Corrin III sits in the main cabin with Prime Minister Jorge Fremont.
Corrin looks away from the rapidly passing space port mainbuilding.
"You know of course this is of utmost importance, Jorge," he says quietly. "With the loss of Ecotonia it is necessary to strengthen our bonds with the Empire of Valinon."
"That may be, Your Grace, but I do not trust the Takians. They are a highly militant, and the least you can say for Valinon is that their militance has been tampered with the past years of peace. We would do wise to try to avoid any entanglements with the High Prince and his nation."
"That remains to be seen, Jorge," Corrin says in a strong voice. "Valinon might be powerful, but the Principality is at the very least just as powerful and more than likely a good deal more powerful than Valinon. No, we will explore an option with the Takians."
"Very well," says Fremont in cooled turns. The two men stop talking as the jet lifts off.

OOC:
Ortagan Delegation
Archduke Raphael Corrin III
Archduchess Agatha Corrin
Lord Poul Corrin, Nephew of the Archduke
Prime Minister Jorge Fremont
Foreign Minister Marion Talbott
Ambassador Victoria Hess, Ambassador to Valinon
Lady Diana Curie, Senior Senator of the House of Lords

http://members.cox.net/davage/images/AresStation.jpg

Brian Walton, Cheif Executive Board Member of Wazzu, had opened the wedding invitation with some manner of joy. It was rare that the international community recognized him...his work as executive of Wazzu was always behind the scenes. He knew at the time the recognition came from the work of his "subordinates", his trusted and aging team of government workers, but it still felt good to get the letter...even if he sadly couldn't make the wedding.

And the team was busy too, every one of them needed where they were, and that was how Nike Wang ended up on Ares Station.

Wang was the CEO of TranCorp, and perhaps the most well known and largest CEO in Wazzu. Despite his weight, or maybe because of it, he actually appeared much younger then he was, the Rejuv pills keeping him going even though he was middle aged at that EOTED summit long ago.

And Ares Station was the Wazzu defensive and cargo transfer station over Mars, where the invitation had origionally been given. The shame Wang felt for needing a ride anywhere was only overridden by the expectation of being the first Wazzuian to visit another solar system. Without the transportation by Valinon, it would be a good 40 year round trip.

What a scumbag I'm sending Brian Walton had thought. He knew that Wang would try and use the event to 'swindle' some buisness deal or another. But then, what better excuse to closer tie together nations then a wedding? Besides, he later rationalized, he isn't a bad guy inside, its just that greasy exterior...he sweet granddaughter has proven that to me many times.

To His Majesty, Emperor Gustav Alderman I,

We are very happy for the soon to be wedded couple and I send my congratulations. When it was discussed in the council of ministers, everyone asked me to relay how pleased we are for your entire nation.

On behalf of the Democratic Republic of Knootoss, minister of Foreign Affairs Hans van Mierlo will attend. I would have gone myself as you intended but unfortunately I am needed back home due to domestic political upheaval and rising international tensions. I hope that you do not take this as an offence, it is simply a matter of practicality.

Mr. van Mierlo will do his very best to represent us. I hope that the good bilateral relations between our nations will continue to bloom.

Kind regards,

Lousewies van der Laan
Knootian Prime Minister

Dear Emperor:

I receive your invitation and I will assist to the ceremony. I can't speak more because I am very busy.

Thank you very much.

Theodros V, Grand Duke of Chacren

The Cardinal-General's personal shuttle Shadowfax lifted off from the spaceport of Agra Island the newly established seat of government for the dominion on Proxima Centauri. The yaucht flew out over the unfinished construction of the island's city asnd past the emerald spray of the ocean against the coast. Over the oceans and towards the Empire flew the shuttle. The passenegers reclined in comfort for the purposfully slow trip, preparing for what might be a diplomatic annoyance or joyous union... none were exactly sure.

OOC-Falasmayon Delegation:

Cardinal-General: Beauchamp
Administrator of Foreign Relations: Dorian Metternicht
Lord Admiral of the Colony of Hlormaren- Fen Mikail
Ambassador to the principality of Taka- Gail Warre
Ambassador to the Empire of Valinon- Allasar Dormir

OOC: Will post later, no time right now.
The Grand Duke will be coming, but not the Crown Archduke. :wink:

To His Majesty, Emperor Gustav Alderman I,

Excuse my late reply Emperor! I will gladly attend the wedding! Zewel 2-34s shall depart Retijika Aerospace Port at 5:00 P.M. today, destined for New Koln. Lord Adonis and Lady Rolt have been notified, and I assume they will also travel with us.

Yours faithfully,

President Mal Kecha

[OOC: Hrstrovokian Delegation -
President Mal Kecha
Mrs Suerilla Kecha
Demak Kecha
5 Hrstrovokian Special Police Guards]

The James Cook emerged from hyperspace at 10lm from Proxima Centauri at 278x15 and began heading in system at a leasurely .1c. Transmitting the recognition codes established as part of the defense pact between the two she flew in-system, heading for the Valinon homeworld.

President Villanova was on the bridge, sitting at the Ambassador's seat in deference to the Captain. He was young, a mere 29, and had enough on his plate considering he was in command of the newest ship in the fleet. Villanova watched as he ordered the crew - hesitant now, but after a few months they would be a tightly woven crew if his intuition was correct.

Proxima Centauri system

Coming out of warp just behind the James Cook was the Knootian Oberth class research vessel KDF Christiaan Huygens In a flahing streak of blue the ship entered normal space and became visible for those travelling at sublight speeds.

The small ship, named after a Dutch scienctist from the 17th century, trembled in the wake of the closing hypergate nut held steadily. Onboard was the minister of Foreign Affairs Hans van Mierlo, who had come along for the trip.

As he stared outside the window of his quarters he could see a view of the Valinon homewold. Van Mierlo had never actually been out of the sol system, and this was a real experince for him. As he admired the planet, the ships communication officer initiated standard hailing protocols.

A friendly welcoming message was also sent to the Sunset ship; it had been a while since they had met in outer space on a diplomatic mission.

OOC: I don't have too much time for extra RP's besides the political upheaval in my country business. But I'll be nice and sociable and attend. :wink:

The KDF Christiaan Huygens and the James Cook see before them the bustling center of the Alpha Centauri system. The planet is swarmed with an array of ships and stations in orbit. Thousands of freighters from the nations of Proxima choke pathways through a planetary defense network that has stations identified as Valinon, Ortagan, and Takan. Numerous ships from the fleets of all the nations of Proxima carefully guard the gem of the system. But above it all sets a massive station that appears to be the hub of the system, spread across its massive central section is the flag of the Empire and the solemn lion insiginia of House Alderman. In large letters underneath is the word Sanctuary.
Suddenly a comm channel opens to both ships, and an escort of fighters and gunships takes up positions of honor guards around them.
"This is Sanctuary Central Orbit Control, welcome to the Proxima Centauri planetary system, honored guest. We request that you take up stable orbital positions or dock at Sanctuary. Which ever is preferred, arrangements can be made for clearance or shuttle flights to New Koln when necessary."

******

In orbit above the Empire's Martian treaty port of Sheffield, Lady Lillith Trahern and Baron-Administrator wait abord a Star Armada heavy cruiser readying to depart for Alpha Centauri. The captain approaches the pair.
"Baron-Administrator, My Lady," he salutes, "Mr. Wang has safely made the shuttle run from Ares Station, he is being escorted to the bridge now."
Heartbeats later the blast doors at the rear of the bridge open, and Wang is escorted in by the second officer.
"Ah, Mr. Wang," says Zaybok, "so good to have you jon us at last. We will be under way in just a few moments. Join us!"
Zaybok waits until Wang joins them on the command catawalk jutting out over the crew pits underneath. The viewports of the cruiser show a magnificient starscape, and the Red Planet cutting across the left edge.
"Captain! Set a course to Alpha Centauri!" Zaybok says with a flourish.
"Yes, sir, to the Twin Suns," with that the heavy cruiser breaks its orbit and begins to move away from Mars.
Lady Trahern looks at Wang, "Congratulations on being the first citizen of the Dominion to leave Sol," she says smiling. And less than fifteen minutes later the heavy cruiser activates its Verner jump space drive and moves toward Alpha Centauri.

OOC: Consider yourself on the surface after this Wazzu, I just though this would do well since it is a kind of historic moment for your nation.

******

At Retijika Aerospace Port, Lord Adonis and Lady Rolt sit with President Mal Kecha, Mrs. Suerilla Kecha, and Dmak Kecha in the main cabin of the luxury transport provided by the SSTF.
Lord Adonis hands out glasses of red wine from the Fatherland and then turns to face his companions.
"A toast," he says, "to a new found friend among the international community. May we put the demons of the past behind us at last and move on to a brighter future! And may you all enjoy the hospitality of the Empire's Fatherland!"

******

His Grace Theodros V, Grand Duke of Chacren,

I look forward to seeing you at the ceremony. Let relations between us prosper and let new roads of communication between our nations be opened.

Most sincere wishes,
Gustav Alderman I

OOC: If you have any questions about my ships, etc. the military ones can be found here: http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=86758&highlight=. I currently have no picks of any civilian vessels immediately handy, but that link does include images of Sanctuary and some other critical space stations. Just for referrence most, feel free to ignore this.

The Venture-B Class James Cook and the Oberth Class Christiaan Huygens were close cousins, though just looking at them would not tell that. Both were named after explorers - appropriate considering they were both exploratory and science ships.

As it approached the Sanctuary station, the James Cook swung around, presenting its aft section and shuttle bay. After a few moments a docking tube ran out from the ship, mating up to the station. As soon as the tube pressurized and the airlock opened two men walked across and into the station.

"While we are here we may as well encourage the crew to mingle. I'll see about dinner with the station officers or other captains as well."

"Definately invite the captain of the 'Christiaan Huygens', if they don't invite you first." Villanova said as they stepped up to the welcoming commitee.

The welcoming committee at the end of the dock consists of six members of His Majesty's Sovereign Protectors, the best in the Empire charged with the protection of His Majesty, several other high officials, and special guests of Emperor Gustav I and a man resplendent in a full white uniform with gold shoulder epualets of a full Admiral of the Red, meaning that he has served at least once as a Lord of the Admiralty. The admiral approaches. He is fairly tall, with steel gray hair and dark brown eyes. He looks to be in his fifties.
He salutes, "President Villanova, I am Quentin Forrest of His Majesty's Star Armada. I am to escort you and Minister van Mierlo to New Koln. A shuttle has been set aside for both of yours use. We can leave as soon as you both are ready."

(ooc:Sorry if I was a bit late responding- I.. don't know, I must have blacked out all afternoon, because I have no idea why it is suddenly ..dark. I hope I haven't assumed too much- I believe it was agreed to have Igomo transported right away, but I stupidly deleted the telegram)

President Derek Igomo departed.. whatever manner of vessel it was that Valinon had laid on for his transport, his knees wobbling slightly, but his face bearing a wide smile. He'd been in the cockpit of Lusaka's Galaxy transport aircraft once before, but never had he even flown supersonic, never mind interstellar!

Jesus dancing Christ he thought, regarding the scene on Proxima Centauri We were lucky only to lose three F-5 and a pair of Dragonfly to these chaps The president's musing on the Lumbosan conflict was apparently echoed by one of his two bodyguards, who was impressed enough to forget his presidentially imposed silence.

"I mean.. Jesus Holy.. I mean.. I'm sorry Mr.President.."

OOC: You did, and don't worry about it, Lusaka. I've been known to do that a few times myself.

The shuttle bearing the markings of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, waits before Igomo, then a ramp descends from its main body. A man dressed in a simple three-piece suit walks down it and hurries to meet Igomo.
The man smiles, "Ah, President Igomo, I am Sir Gunther Westmarch, one of His Majesty's Ambassadors here on Earth. I apologize for not accquiring a better shuttle, but I have arranged to travel aboard the HMS Chimaera on its return trip to Proxima."
Westmarch takes Igomo and his guards on board, several minutes later the shuttle is streaking through the atmosphere, and preparing to leave the Earth fully behind.
Westmarch talks with Igomo, "It is going to be an event to remember, Mr. President, shortly after the wedding His Majesty will celebrate his Diamon Jubilee and enter the history books as the longest reigning Emperor, surpassing even Penrod the Great. That is why the major elements of the Star Armada are being recalled, the largets military review since the end of the Outer Dominion Wars is being organized by all the branches of the Armed Services. And there is the Chimaera now," Westmarch points out one of the shuttles viewports.
Igomo turns to see a massive, sleek ship in the center of a formation of lesser ships. It is one of the Star Armada's Ares class dreadnaughts, 1,992.4 meters in length and armed to the teeth, the Chimaera serves as the command ship for Lord Adonis' recently formed Sol System Task Force. A Sardaukar appears from the cockpit.
"We will by entering the Chimaera's hanger momentarily," he announces abruptly. "Vice Admiral Dugan says that he will have the fleet underway as soon as we are aboard."
"Good," says Westmarch, "we must not be late. Many of the other delegations are already gone. Lord Adonis left aboard his luxury transport, and the Wazzu representative left this morning, so I will not be the last to arrive."
"As you wish, My Lord," says the Sardaukar, before he retreats back to the cockpit.

******

Less than a half hour later the Chimaera departs Earth/Luna mid orbit and moves away from the homeworld of humanity, then departs the Sol System all together. Its course set for the double suns of the Alpha Centauri system.

OOC: And for a picture of the Ares Fancy Picture on My Fleet Review Thread I am So Proud Of (http://www.shipschematics.net/yamato/images/edf/battleship_yamato17.jpg)
Sorry, but I just really enjoy the fruits of my labor. And its viewing count has been pathetic.

"New Koln control, this is the Dominion yaucht Shadowfax. Requesting landing clearance and direction."

Minutes later the Shadowfax passes serenly over the city to the spaceport and touches down on the indicated pad. Two small jets of air signal the depressurization of the airlock as the boarding ramp lowers to the ground. Moments later 5 officials exit the vessel.

The Cardinal-General stands at the head of the group flanked by his foreign administrator and the Hlormaren colony Lord. The General is dressed in the red trimmed, black dress uniform of the Falasmayon navy, in which he served. His uniform is dignified and well cut, but lacks the pompous display of regalia and medals often seen on the uniforms of military dictators. He wears only two decorations on his uniform, the 5 petaled flower of the Falasmayon flag adorns his left shoulder and and the Navy Sigil, awarded in the days of the old regime, rests upon his left breast.

The rest of the entourage is at ease in the General's over 6' presence, but visibly defer to him. The group reaches the foot of the boarding ramp, and moves to ward the terminal building, and the obviously visible liason who approaches them.

Disembarking from their own jet, the Ortagan delegation sees the Falasmayon representatives at the same time the General sees them.
A man with green-grey eyes and dressed in a resplendent uniform approaches the Cardinal General.
"Ah, Cardinal-General Beauchamp (sp?), I am Raphael Corrin. And it is an honor to meet you at last. May I also introduce my wife...."
"Agatha," the woman on the Archduke's arm says.
"Prime Minister Fremont," a man standing to the left of Raphael nods formally, "Lady Curie," the woman next to Fremont smiles, "Foreign Minister Talbott," an aging harried looking man bows to the Cardinal-General, "and finally my nephew Poul."

In orbit above the Empire's Martian treaty port of Sheffield, Lady Lillith Trahern and Baron-Administrator wait abord a Star Armada heavy cruiser readying to depart for Alpha Centauri. The captain approaches the pair.
"Baron-Administrator, My Lady," he salutes, "Mr. Wang has safely made the shuttle run from Ares Station, he is being escorted to the bridge now."
Heartbeats later the blast doors at the rear of the bridge open, and Wang is escorted in by the second officer.
"Ah, Mr. Wang," says Zaybok, "so good to have you jon us at last. We will be under way in just a few moments. Join us!"
Zaybok waits until Wang joins them on the command catawalk jutting out over the crew pits underneath. The viewports of the cruiser show a magnificient starscape, and the Red Planet cutting across the left edge.
"Captain! Set a course to Alpha Centauri!" Zaybok says with a flourish.
"Yes, sir, to the Twin Suns," with that the heavy cruiser breaks its orbit and begins to move away from Mars.
Lady Trahern looks at Wang, "Congratulations on being the first citizen of the Dominion to leave Sol," she says smiling. And less than fifteen minutes later the heavy cruiser activates its Verner jump space drive and moves toward Alpha Centauri.

OOC: Consider yourself on the surface after this Wazzu, I just though this would do well since it is a kind of historic moment for your nation.

On the shuttle ride down to the planet, Nike Wang pondered his recent experiance.

No wonder we don't get so many sales. Top of the line stuff without enough luxuries. I'm going to have to fix that. Indeed, Wazzuians were used to crowded spaces, even the rich. But Wang had throughly enjoyed the amount of room aboard heavy cruiser.

But his thoughts were interupted as the shuttle landed and the doors opened, giving the CEO his first look at the planet. His double chinned jaw dropped.

Other things Wazzuians were used to included deadly smog, no scenery, no greenery, and lack of archetecture. Rich Nike Wang was a bit more experianced and had seen the Earth from his stratosphere level apartment, had seen the small towns of New Nasustiro, had seen the Derkesthai Lunar Gardens. Each was stunning in its own way, and this too had its own beauty.

Self awareness returned, and he lumbered his obese body down the ramp towards the reception.

The assembled delegations stand in a large vacant room inside the aerospace port. Wazzu, Ortagan, Knootian, Sunset, Lusakan, Hrstrovokian, and Falasmayon are all assembled. Suddenly the doors at the entrance to the hall burst open. Ambassador Hess of Ortaga and a man dressed in the ornate garb of the Imperial Court are flanked by four squads of Imperial Sovereign Protectors.
The man bows formally to those assembled, "Greetings, Honored Guests, I am Count Viktor Leopold, First Minister for His Majesty's Foreign Affairs. It will be my pleasure to escort you all to the Palace at once. His Majesty is waiting, and sends his regrets that he could not come in person. But there were some matters to be attended to. Please right this way."
Leopold takes the delegates out of room they were in. Out into the sunlight of the double suns of the Alpha Centauri system. Alpha Centauri A bathes Proxima in warm light much like Sol, but Alpha Centauri B is a smoldering, red orb that contributes little heat and only some light. At the bottom of the stairs are several official ground cars marked with the solemn lion crest of House Alderman and under the watchful eye of Protectors, Sardaukar, and some Civilian Policing Units of New Koln, one of the few areas of the Empire still under direct rule from House Alderman.
Leopold turns to his guest, "It will only take us a few moments to get to the Palace, please select a vehicle."

OOC: I will let you all select, I figure that is a way to allow some international politicing begin, which is always fun to read about.

Fidelo looked over the assembled ambassadors and officials. The Republic had good relations with both Wazzu and Knootoss, thus it was time to make a new friend.

Walking over to the Ortagan representative he put out his hand.

"President Fidelo Villanova, of the Republic of Sunset. I do no know your country other than the odd intelligence report, so I believe it is time we get to know you better."

He indicates one of the waiting vehicles with his other hand, indicating his desire to ride to the destination together.

"Raphael Corrin, of New Ortaga," says the formally dressed Archduke. "May I also introduce my wife Agatha, Prime Minister Fremont, Lady Curie, Minister Talbott, and my nephew Poul. It would be my pleasure to ride with you. So good to be back in New Koln again."
As he walks toward the awaiting limo with Villanova, he continues to talk, eying the Ducal Elite Guardsmen around him, he motions for them to join their Valinon counterparts.
"I have heard well of you, Mr. Villanova, through our apparently mutual ally Emperor Gustav. He speaks well of your assistance in their recent efforts to establish a settlement on Mars."

"Yes. We were most pleased with the decision. After establishing friendly relations during the Knootoss Shadow War, we have worked to reinforce those relations. The port in Sunset is just one more bond between our two nations."

Fidelo took a seat opposite the Archduke and took the proferred refreshment.

"One of the many things I hope to accomplish while in system is a strengthening of the relationship. An outpost - perhaps something simple like a consular station - to ease passage between our two nations first of all. Then I would like to work with Valinon and the other nations to setup trade routes between Sunset and Proxima Centauri."

He took a sip of the wine and placed it beside him.

"While it is good to have an ally such as Valinon at your back or beside you, it is better for both to grow wealthier in trade as well. That is a good cycle - the wealthier we both become, the more power we have and the more trade increases due to safety."

Raphael looks intensely at Fidelo, he is one of those people who seems to devote his whole attention to the person he is talking to.
"You have come to Valinon at the right time, Mr. Villanova. Right now, in Valinon not even the sky is the limit. Ever since Emperor Gustav broke down the isolationists policies of Valinon when he came to the throne, the Empire has constantly expanded and grown. We in Ortaga have benefited from this greatly, and right now Valinon is our biggest export market outside of our own colonies. However, the relations with Valinon have another benefit for us.
You see we are a nation of traders and merchants as well, Mr. Villanova. But in taking that road our military strength and power is not as great as many other nations. We find it beneficial to have the Valinon Star Armada and Sardaukar as such close friends. They have proven their worth in numerous occasion. And if you can setup harmonious agreements with Emperor Gustav, perhaps you would be willing to allow us to negotiate a trade agreement as well?"

Looking around, Nike finds he is standing next to the Falasmayon delegation. He smiles (a bit too happily?) and streaches out a meaty hand to the man in black. "I believe Cardinal-General is the correct title, no? I am Nike Wang, CEO of Wazzu Transcorp. I understand your nation resides in this great system...."

"Business before pleasure - though let it not interfer too much with our pleasure..."

Fidelo took another sip of wine and pulled out a small pocket computer. He tapped at it for a moment and handed it over.

"Keep it - nothing classified on it. But it does contain the details of our standard trade agreement as well as our import/export information. The standard agreement is simple - no tariffs or specific taxes on imported goods from the two signatories. There is a sub-clause to establish a dual barcoding system for goods, allowing them fast entrance into the respective markets. Other similar sub-agreements are listed as well, all designed to make trade as fast and simple as possible."

Fidelo finished the glass and poured another one of water while the Archduke looked it over.

"Very interesting," says Raphael, "very tempting as well. Do you not agree, Jorge?" he turns to the Prime Minister.
Fremont takes it and begins to read over it, "Indeed, Your Grace, I would not see any problems in it and I think the House of Commons would be most receptive to trading partners in the solar system. But tell me, Mr. Villanova, would it be possible for us to work out an agreement similar to the treaty port Sheffield?"

"I don't see a reason why not. Due to a rather sudden change in the population growth rate Sunset no longer reflects the predicted population for a nation of it's age. Thus arcologies that were in development for our use are empty and in need of residents. In fact we recently completed the transfer of many of them to one of our allies.

There are still some remaining - most were designed for between 5 and 10 million people. If you are interested we could arrange a transfer of one to you for a similar use. The cost would be low as the companies who constructed them are seeking to recover their costs at the least."

"That sounds promising," says Raphael. "Perhaps we could work out the finalities once the ceremony is over, but for now I will say that we would be very interested in purchasing such a arcology. Besides, we have seen the great success that many Valinon corporations have enjoyed in their recent return to markets in the solar system. I don't see any reason why there would not be space for us in the markets."
"Indeed," interjects Fremont, "and perhaps we could exchange establishment of embassies facilities as well. From your ship in orbit, I would say that the Republic of Sunset is not limited to merely Mars."

OOC: WOW! I get of the net for an afternoon and there's 12, new posts... aarrrgggh!

IC: "Indeed we do inhabit this system." says the General, taking Wang's offered hand, "The Dominion holds land on Proxima and a significant portion of the largest moon, We also hold a colony system known as the Hlormar Radiant, but I am curious Mr. Wang, and you may call me simply General Beauchamp if you prefer, I dislike the more formal title. What about your nation? We have records of the general information of your planet, but you were not mentioned. By your title I assume, you run a critical corporation on your planet, but what does that corporation do?"

"Ahh, well General Beauchamp, Wazzu is actually spread among Earth, Mars, Venus, and Earth's moon Luna. We're not exactly a system power, but we try to keep quiet, better for peace and stability, and therefore trade. And trade is what we do, what we're meant to do.

"TransCorp is one of a few remaining corporations that founded Wazzu. We made it so our corporations could get the laws they needed without the backdoor politicing. It's worked well. TransCorp once made cheap cars, now we make some of the best aerospace and aqua vehicles in the system.

"So thats my nation, my corporation, and myself." he started half-leading down towards a vehicle, glad at having lost so much weight after the EOTED summit. "I believe it is your turn."

OOC: Just a friendly note, this period of the gaming will end tomorrow. All parties currently present will arrive at the Palace. I think I could allow this to continue for all of tomorrow, maybe a day longer if it is very necessary.

"Ah, indeed."said the General following Wang to the car and entering."At the conclusion of this wedding our nations will decidedly have to look into a trade agreement. If I may, what sort of Aerospace equipment do you manufacture, space frames? weaponry?"

As the general was speaking, his foreign minister joined him in the car while his other entourage members entered another car as a group.

OOC: Sounds fine - we can likely continue after the wedding anyway. The 'Cook will need to charge the secondary FTL drive for 10 days before it can jump for Ares anyway - plenty of time to establish some treaties and trade agreements.

IC:
"It seems we still have a little time - what are the primary exports of New Ortaga? I realize we may see some overlap and competition because of it, but that's how the game works."

The mighty Thylacin Class Dreadnaught materialized in the destination system, accompanied by several Emeral Spire Class Cruisers.
The Dreadnaught positioned itself in planetary orbit and a shuttle exited it, taking direction of the spaceport.

It landed swiftly. The doors opened and members of the 1st "Silence and Death" Batallion of the Alexander Guard Honorary Regiment started exiting it, one by one.
http://www.digikitten.com/playhousev2/files/Mishgan/AG_comingdown.jpg

They stood to both sides of the shuttle doors and finally, the Grand Duke Mikhail Shakhovskoy the Ist appeared out of the shuttle. He was in a formal parade uniform, his ceremonial sword and dagger with him.
He came down, slowly, taking all his time and nodded to the welcoming committee.

- Pardon my late arrival...

OOC:

And thats all I can get out of my exam weared brain for now :D

Count Leopold sees the Grand Duke as he is guided out of aerospace port toward the awaiting cars. Several of which are already departing. He approachs the Grand Duke an bows formally.
"Your Grace, I am Count Viktor Leopold, First Minister for His Majesty's Foreign Affairs. Perhaps you would do me the honor of accompanying me to the Palace?"
Meanwhile, the Imperial Sovereign Protectors eye their companions of the "Silence and Death" 1st battalion. A look of cool judgement and of begrduged respect seems to be carried between the two guard cores.

Mikhail nodded to Leopold.

- Of course, honorable Count, I see no reasons why I should not accompany you.

With that, he glanced at his escort and turned back to Leopold.

- I believe my guards will be delivered, too.
My personal adjutant will accompany me.

With that, the Grand Duke motioned towards a young officer behind him, which nodded calmly to the Grand Duke.
Mikhail turned back, facing Leopold.

- Well then, honorable Count, shall we proceed?

"Yes, let us, it seems that most of the other delegations have already left," Count Leopold gestures to one of the remaining cars. A Protector holds it open.
While they are walking Leopold turns to a Protector officer.
"Captain?"
"Yes, My Lord?"
"Arrange transportation for the soldiers of the Grand Duke."
"At once, My Lord."
Leopold then turns back to the car and gets in. The Protector shuts the door then moves toward the front.
"I would like to thank you for attending this event, Your Grace. The Empire looks forward to better relations with the Grand Duchy of Tarasovka have been somewhat uneasy in the past. His Majesty was very interested in finally meeting you personally," Leopold says as the car begins to get under way. Following the well-secured route to the Palace.

"Ah, indeed."said the General following Wang to the car and entering."At the conclusion of this wedding our nations will decidedly have to look into a trade agreement. If I may, what sort of Aerospace equipment do you manufacture, space frames? weaponry?"

As the general was speaking, his foreign minister joined him in the car while his other entourage members entered another car as a group.

"Ahhh," said Wang, squeezing through the door behind the General and hearing the door close behind him, "I'm afraid not weaponry, at least not for sale outside Wazzu. Perhaps soon to long time and close allies. We call it enlightened capitalism. If we sell weapons, it promotes instability, which reduces trade. Otherwise we make civilian submarines, hover vehicles of all sorts, and have an expanding line of freighters and transports. Always top of the line stuff, but I'm afraid nothing with faster then light drive or fancy looks.

"I'd quite look forward to look into trade, but, you still have not spoken of your nation..."

Tag

"Yes, let us, it seems that most of the other delegations have already left," Count Leopold gestures to one of the remaining cars. A Protector holds it open.
While they are walking Leopold turns to a Protector officer.
"Captain?"
"Yes, My Lord?"
"Arrange transportation for the soldiers of the Grand Duke."
"At once, My Lord."
Leopold then turns back to the car and gets in. The Protector shuts the door then moves toward the front.
"I would like to thank you for attending this event, Your Grace. The Empire looks forward to better relations with the Grand Duchy of Tarasovka have been somewhat uneasy in the past. His Majesty was very interested in finally meeting you personally," Leopold says as the car begins to get under way. Following the well-secured route to the Palace.

The Grand Duke got into the car, followed by the adjutant.
Mikhail nodded to Leopold as the car got under way.

- Yes, we have certain things to discuss...

The adjutant watched into the windows at the 'landscape'...

OOC: Yes, just a little bump :roll:

OOC: Tarasovka, we can continue this later. Time to move the next stage.

The caravan of official ground cars crosses one of the bridges spanning the Luthien River to Imperial Center, where the Palace, Imperial Congressional Building, and ministry headquarters are housed. They take the road that spans the outside of the island, as it spins its way toward a three-pronged fork, the cars all take the leftmost one. Eventually the road leads to the wall encircling the Palace and its grounds. The gate is opened and the cars pass through, and eventually come to a large circular drive that stands in front of the Palace's main entrance. In the center of the circle stands a statue, denoting some Emperor of Valinon, looking over out across the city.
But on the small stairs stands a small delegation. Flanked on either side by a squad of Imperial Sovereign Protectors, stands three men and a woman. The man at the center is old, dressed in the full finery of the Imperial Court, complete with formal waistcoat and great coat he bears the crest of House Alderman. His hair is white, but his eyes are a vivid, deep blue. To his right is a man wearing the uniform of the Takan High Prince,. To his left stands the younger man dressed in a military cut uniform based on the design of a full Sardaukar field marshal, he is clearly of Aryan extract, but the same eyes as the old man's watch from a much younger face and it is clear the two are related. The woman on his arm wears a dress of Takan cut and watches the approaching cars with a cool gaze.
The representative and their entourage are helped out of their cars, and the old man steps forward. In his right hand he carries a simple black cane tipped and handled in gold, but it is clear he loathes using it.
He clears his throat, "Welcome, welcome to New Koln. I am Gustav Alderman, and this is my son Rowald. And this is....." he obviously waits for the Takan man to speak.

OOC: Sounds fine - we can likely continue after the wedding anyway. The 'Cook will need to charge the secondary FTL drive for 10 days before it can jump for Ares anyway - plenty of time to establish some treaties and trade agreements.

IC:
"It seems we still have a little time - what are the primary exports of New Ortaga? I realize we may see some overlap and competition because of it, but that's how the game works."

OOC: Since we are moving on now...... My primary exports industries are shipbuilding, orbital equipment and installation building, pharmaceutical goods, arms industry, communications/electronic goods, an finally a excellent export market in automobile manufacture. Matter of fact, some of the cars Valinon is using now are probably Ortagan! Rah for me! :D

"I am High Prince Taka, this, is my daughter Ami, we both welcome you here with open arms, and pray that this wedding will spark renewed period of peace and prosparity, both to Proxima, and to all nations attending." He stands stoicly, relaxed from his ussual pose, trained into him from years of a nessisary military regime. The Princess Ami smiles to the delegates politely, her eyes scanning the group, picking out faces and placing them with the names she had studied the night before.

Fidelo moves down the line shaking hands - a slight bow for the Emperor, one leader to another, another for the High Prince, a firm handshake for the son, and so on down the line.

"Thank you for inviting me to this event. It has given me more opportunities than anticipated."

He then moves to the side for the next person.

'Plenty of time at the reception and afterward.'

OOC: I don't want to distract, but I think we are going to have a lot of treaties come out of this one.

Raphael leads his procession as it moves down exchanging pleasantries with Emperor Gustav, Prince Rowald, Princess Ami, and High Prince Taka.

Raphael and Gustav nod to each other respectfully, "It is good to be back in New Koln, old friend," says Raphael to Gustav, "let us hope all goes well."

He approaches Rowald, "Congratulations," he whispers as he shakes his hand.

He comes to Ami and bows regally, "It is an honor to finally meet you, Princess. I hope we can speak later."

Finally he comes to Taka and half-bows formally, "High Prince, it is also a pleasure. It appears that events have been set in motion to set the future of Proxima."

The Ortagans move on to let the other delegations speak with the Valinons and the Takians.

"There is a Takian proverb that states 'a moth can decide the course of an empire, a word, the course of a battle'" Taka says to the Ortagian delgate, "The fate of Proxima rests in the hands of all its members." He bows formaly to him, turning to the next delegate in line.

The Grand Duke gets out of the car, followed by his adjutant.
A vehicle comes behind the car in which the Grand Duke arrived and all twelve Alexander Guards come out of it and immediately get into a formation around the Grand Duke, forming a sort of a V letter, with the Grand Duke between the two branches.

The Grand Duke nods to them and the procession moves out to greet Emperor Gustav Alderman.

The Grand Duke then congratulates the 'soon-to-be-married'.

His adjutant comes up to him and whispers something into his ear. The Grand Duke nods and responds something. The adjutant gets between the Alexander Guards and types somthing into a small commsdevice on his right arm.

"Excuse me, Comrade president." came the words from his intercom
""Yes, What is it Andrea" Premier of The USSC, Nikolai Petrenkov, answered back.

"Some news for you sir" the voice came again
"Alright bring it in" He replied

The Premier's personal secretary walked into the room and set a document down on his desk.
"Take a seat while I read this please" He asked

He read the document thoroughly and then looked up.

"So The Crown Prince of Valinon is finally getting married ,eh?"

"It seems so sir" Andrea replied
"Well, I'd rather like to stay on their good side, plus a wedding is a very joyous occasion, so I think we should send them something"
"Like what sir"

The Premier thought for a moment, and said nothing for a while.
"I know, We'll send them a gift basket, with some high quality Chochezken Vodka, and Some gourmet Cheese"

"That can be arraged sir, but, imean, is that all" She asked worriedly.

"Your right" He replied "We should send it in An MI-28 HAVOC chopper, I'm sure the prince would love that. JUst make sure, that it gets there AFTER the ceremony"

"Yes sir" Andrea reurned, Then left

OOC sorry Wazzu, I wld have replied to you but I couldnt get to my computer.

IC: The Cardinal-General moves down the line greeting all in turn. He greets Princess Ami with a bow and a respectful kiss on the hand. The other men with firm handshakes and respectful nods, especially High Prince Taka and Emperor Gustav.

"Greetings my friends and compatriots, It gives me great pleasure to be here for this wonderous day."

The other members of the entourage greet in similar and appropriate forms.

OOC: Would it be possible to have some replies already? :?

((OOC: It looks like the wedding is dying a slow and painful deaht accualy. I belive its Valinon's move next, and he's A-WOL))

Major Sergi Pluskat Scaned the horizon, even though if anything was to come at him, the radar would have seen it.

He had already received permission to land due to his diplomatic status.
The designated landing pad was within his field of vision, so he began to slow the Chopper down, and brought it slowly down right in the middle of the pad.

As Sergi jumped out of the chopper, he took off his flight suit to reveal slightly crumpled military parade uniform. He held the gift basket in one hand, as he marched toward the waiting car He gave the driver a few pounds, which he had been given at the monetary exchange and the were on their way to the wedding.

"And Step on it if you will comrade, I don't want to be late" He said loudly.
He could not shake the feeling that his comment was largely ignored

OOC: Sorry, sorry, been busy, extremely busy.

After greeting the guest Gustav clears his throat, "Rooms have been set aside for all of you in the Palace. My staff will take you to your quarters, sufficient rooms have been provided for all members of the entourage. Also, once you have found your rooms, I would appreciate it if you would all join myself and the other members of the Imperial Court. Dinner will be served of course."
With that, Emperor Gustav leads the various international delegates down through the main doors of the Palace where they are taken by members of the Palace staff to their rooms. For one moment, Gustav takes the Taraskovyan Grand Duke aside.
"Your personal guardsmen are being quartered with my own Sovereign Protectors for now. Except for a few rooms set aside for your personal guardsmen. Tell me is this acceptable?"

******

Major Pluskat is hurriedly taken to the Palace by a car directly from the Sovereign Protectors. He arrives in time to say a few words with the the Aldermans, Prince Taka, and Princess Ami. Then is taken inside the main hall and a servant moves to show him to his rooms.

OOC: Sorry, sorry, been busy, extremely busy.

After greeting the guest Gustav clears his throat, "Rooms have been set aside for all of you in the Palace. My staff will take you to your quarters, sufficient rooms have been provided for all members of the entourage. Also, once you have found your rooms, I would appreciate it if you would all join myself and the other members of the Imperial Court. Dinner will be served of course."
With that, Emperor Gustav leads the various international delegates down through the main doors of the Palace where they are taken by members of the Palace staff to their rooms. For one moment, Gustav takes the Taraskovyan Grand Duke aside.
"Your personal guardsmen are being quartered with my own Sovereign Protectors for now. Except for a few rooms set aside for your personal guardsmen. Tell me is this acceptable?"


The Grand Duke smiled to Gustav and nodded.

- Of course, Honorable Emperor, this suits me completely. But by tradition, at least two guards will accompany me all the time.
I understand if they are subject to the 'no weapons' rule, but traditions are traditions - armed Guards or not, I am to be accompanied.

Mikhail sighed and called the head of the Guard unit. He quickly resumed him the orders, to which the Guard bowed, silently, acknowledging the order and went back to his unit, to inform them.

The Grand Duke turned back to the Emperor and called his adjutant to come near him. When the young man came, Mikhail adressed Gustav.

- I believe I should present you one of my most trusted adjutants - Meher Delendre-S'Jet, son of Simon Delendre-S'Jet and heir to the leadership of the Daiamid Council of Vortex Corporations.
You see, me and Simon are old friends and he asked me to take his son as aspirant.
And I should say that this young person proved to be very helpful and a very good student, too.

The Grand Duke smiled, the young man bowed silently to the Emperor.

Whilst making his ceremonial bow, Meher softly spoke a few ceremonial words, indicating that he was honoured to meet a man of such power and status. Finishing his introduction, he took a step back and patiently awaited the reply of the Emperor.

The High Prince watches quietly at all the fuss over the Emperor, a slight smile tracing his thin lips.

'such respect' he says to his daughter quietly 'you could learn much from him.'

'and by that' she said quietly, leaning away from her husband to be to assure she would not be over heard. 'you mean how to control his son, don't you?'

'only if you wish, only if you wish' Taka said, once more surprised at the speed she picked up his true intentions. He turned back towards the aging Emperor, watching his every move with respect. Perhaps his daughter was not the only one who had much to learn from the old man.

Gustav studies Meher Delendre-S'Jet carefully, "It is a pleasure to meet a proud son of the Vortex Corporation. I hope that your visit here will teach you something of Valinon. And if you are such a devout student perhaps you would enjoy a visit to the Imperial University before you return to the Vortex Corporation?"

"My Emperor, while it is a great honour for me to receive such an offer from you, I am afraid I must decline. My own honour demands that I stay with the man to whom I have pledged allegiance during my time of service for the Grand Duchy. I do, however, thank you for your offer and will inform my father of your generosity when I return to my homeland"

"I understand perfectly," says Gustav. "Honor is a matter of utmost importance in Valinon, and for many of the nations of Proxima. However, perhaps you could carry the message back to the people of the Vortex Corporation at large as well? Prokhor Academician Zakharov is longing to find a suitable candidacy field in the international community to restart the Imperial University's exchange program."

"Of course, your majesty. I will inform the proper authorities as soon as I return home", Meher said.

When he got to his room Fidelo produced another computer - this was a full holo-display desktop model. Laying it flat on the desk he activated it, and began dressing while taking notes for later.

"Trade agreement with New Ortaga, possibly Taka as well. Research on Takan and Valinon trade goods and partners.

Suggest an expansion of the wormhole gates here - possibly under Valinon control.

Station an ambassador to each nation. Set aside some funds for embassy construction.

Propose a officer exchange program - fleet officers."

The computer took notes, and with it's limited self-intelligence expanded them out, formatted them, and prepared background resources. Establishing a uplink with the ship, it transmitted everything over QE to avoid running afoul of the local security systems. It also grabbed the messages waiting for Fidelo as he finished changing.

Gustav meanwhile had used the brief moment of time to retreat to his study and steal a small breather from the political occasion.
In his study he pours himself a small amount of bourbon in a snifter and turns to Duke Sterling.
"I trust you have made the necessary preparations, Leo?" Gustav swirls the contents of his glass as he talks to Leo Sterling, the Prime Minister of the Congress of Lords and the Minister of Imperial Affairs.
"Yes, Your Majesty, everything has come together. Representatives of all the major families, the Congress of Lords, the major cartels, and the Congress of Commons are all hear. We also have some additional visitors from Ortaga, mostly some of the private industrial interest."
"Of course," says Gustav, "they are still trying to carve out more niches in the markets."
"All in all this seems to be going rather well, Your Majesty," Sterling says, adjusting his formal great coat.
"Yes, it seems to be," Gustav takes one last swallow of the bourbon to drain his glass. "Let us be off, Leo, and collect my son. I will most certainly not be late to perform the duties of a host."

OOC: Sorry for not posting in here for a while. I'll have to catch up first...tomorrow. Don't wait for me, I just use "fluid time" to RP some stuff that happened earlier, and then catch up. Sorry again all.

Prince Taka retreated to his room, sliding a small holo console from his luggage. He reguarded it for a moment, before typing in his password and securing a channel. Two guards appeared on screen, saluting him.

"gentlemen, patch me through to all security networks"

"sir?"

"just do it. . . "

A few moments went by, and the security grid of the palace came online in his holo console. He scanned it, seeking annomolys, something out of place, anything that seemed wrong. Nothing, nothing at all was wrong. He closed it down and let a out a sigh of relife. . . everyhting was giong perfectly. . . so why couldn't he shake this feeling something terrible was about to happen?

Sergi entered his room and was stunned by the elegance of it all.
He unbuttoned his jacket, placed it on a hanger, and hung it on the door knob of the closet for the next day.

In a matter of ten minutes, he showered and brushed his teeth. he decided against shaving, telling himself that he would look good with a mustache/Goatee.

"I'll have a hard time sleeping in this place" He said as he marveled once more at the luxury of the room as he hung a small, 2 ft. Chochezken Flag, over the bed

He quickly got dressed and decided to take in the sights, since he had nothing else to do.
Maybe I'll make a stop at the Hotel Bar, He thought as he exited his room.

Taka stood slowly, walking to the courner of his room and retrieving the leather bound case within. He drew a katana, one of the Mizunian Royal blades. Hand forged a thousand years ago, supposedly imbued with magic to make it indestructable, it had survived countelss battles and duels, outliving its owners each time, though only falling in battle once. It had been his brother's sword, and he had cut it from his brother's hand in the final moments of the Takian Mizunian split. It had claimed millions of lives, all in fair and honorable combat. . . but it was not his, nor did he feel at ease keeping it any longer. He resheathed it, placing it in its leather case and stepped into the hallway, heading towards the Emperor's room.

Gustav meanwhile was just preparing to leave his own study, he sighs once and runs a hand over his coat to smooth out some stray wrinkles. He turns the door handle and opens it, to find Prince Taka rapidly approaching.
"High Prince," he says his eyes noticing the leather bound case in his hands. "Please by all means come in."
As he ushers Taka in, he turns back to Sterling, "Leo, could you grant the High Prince and myself some time alone?"
"Of course, Your Majesty," and then the Prime Minister is gone, closing the door behind him.

Taka bows to the Emeperor, and extends the leather bound katana to him.

"It is a custom in Takian households, that the father of the bride gift her husband's family with a katana as a symbol of honor and loyalty towards them as allies, please, accept this as a token of our alliance, secured at last. It is an ancient blade, and was my brother's untill his death."

He drew it, letting the blade glisten in the rooms light, and gave it a few practice swings before resheathing it, and handing it, handle first, to the emperor.

"It is an honor for me to receive such a blade," Gustav says. He draws the sword as he lays his cane against a chair. "It is a pity that I am not at least 15 years younger and could make better use of it. But it shall remained a cherished possession as long as I and the further descendents of my House set on the throne of the Empire."
Gustav eyes study the blade carefully, and for a moment Taka sees a lifetime of memories flash through the blue eyes of the Old Emperor. But then he sheaths the blade and the dancing of his younger years leaves his eyes.
"And now, High Prince, I have something for you in return," he moves to his desk, unlocks a drawer and withdraws two packages wrapped in what appears to be oilcloth.
"It is a custom in the Empire, High Prince, that the families grant each other exchanges that represents that their families are now unified," he moves to unwrap the smaller package first. Inside is a glistening replica of the solemn lion's head of House Alderman. It is form has been crafted by the most devout craftsmen the Empire has. The gold has been wrought until the most minute details can be seen by the eye. Its eyes are made of nova gems from the mines of Proxima III, and they burn with a quiet fire of their own.
"Take this the crest of House Alderman, to remind you that we are united," then he moves to the second package, unwrapping it and revealing a sabre in its sheath. The point is tipped in gold, and the main body of the sheath glistens with a silver sheen. "And take this so that you may know that the honor of my house stands with you."
He unsheaths the blade, the guard on it hilt is a network of elegant spirals, and yet not so overwrought that it is a worthless showman's piece. The blade itself cast the unusual gleem of polished neo-titanium. At the base of the hilt though, where the guard begins to whorl outward, is the seal that is unique across Proxima. It bears the ornate crest of the personal sword makers of House Alderman.
After a few moments, Gustav eases the sabre back into its sheath and presents it to Taka in like fashion as he received the blade of Taka.

Taka reverently takes the lion's head first, admiring the craftsmanship of the piece, then takes the blade in his hand. With a smooth motion he draws it, his body uncontiously falling into a dueling stance as he holds the blade outward, gripping it in a loose duelist grip.

"marvalous. . . " he wispers, moving it swiftly, as if the blade were made of air. "simply marvolous. . . I will accept this gift, and the honor you entrust me with. No member of the Takian family will stain its name and escape retribution."

He bows before falling into a more relaxed pose. "shall we have a drink, brother? News travels fast, and I wish to share some of hte better portions with you."

He moved to the drink cabinet, picking up a bottle of brandy, uncorking it, and smelling deeply its rich arroma.

"you don't mind do you?"

"Pour me a glass," Gustav says, becoming more relaxed himself. He takes the glass that Taka offers him with a warm, paternal smile. He holds up his glass.
"Miracles happen once in awhile, my friend, I think it only fitting I see a few before it comes my final bow. I never dreamed that I would come this far in my years, nor see my people transformed into what they are today. The enemies of the future and the old shadows are dispelled, and the future seems a bright place. To the future, and to posterity, something I can long last be secure in and take a long-deserved rest," he raises his glass.

Taka poured him a glass of the brandy, the lastest securty report playing through his mind. . .

"one is only as old as we feel, the body is decieving my friend, and age is but a number. My father, peace be upon him, lives still, he's older than the entire Empire of Valinon. . . though I doubt he'll live much longer, our bloodline is cursed with. . . ungraceful aging in our final years. . . ."

OOC: OK, busy with so many other threads and with real life itself (!!!). So, I'm just going to assume Nike Wang went through the motions a page back and start where the RP is now.

IC: Nike Wang admired the large, well decorated room. He especially admired anything made of wood or metal, such items being rare in Wazzu. But he didn't admire it for long, there was buisness to attend to.

Strange that I should come all this way only to talk to someone so close, he thought as he walked down the hallway to Fidelo's room, even if I've never met the man himself.

The overly large CEO arrived, panting considerably less then in his youth, and rapped on the door three times.

Fidelo heard the knock, and went over to the door. "Who calls?"

Hearing the reply he opened the door and ushured him inside.

"Mr. Wang. Is there something I can do for you?"

Fidelo went over to the bar and poured himself something.

"A drink?"

Nike Wang closed the fine ?was that Oak? door behind him and smiled broadly as Fidelo went to pour some drinks. "That sounds like an excellent idea. Whatever your having will be fine."

Wang walked over and stood in front of a sofa, politely waiting for Fidelo to come back so the two would sit down together. "I found myself suprised to be comming to see you here," Wang gestured to the room, the building, the planet...so far from Sol, "of all places. But I've come to the conclusion that the timing is perfect.

"No doubt you've realized the value that trade with these people could be...."

"Definately. I mentioned it on the ride here - the cycle of trade and the growth of power that comes with it is especially desireable amoung allies. While I'm here I want to strengthen the bonds between Valinon and Sunset beyond having a strong ally at your back. Trade will accomplish that nicely."

Fidelo returned to the couch and handed Wang a scotch on the rocks.

"As for my reasons for coming out here... I've desired to see the other worlds I've seen in reports for quite some time. After this we will be heading further into the galaxy. There lies the great secret of this trip - once I leave Proxima Centauri I am stepping down as President. Before I do that I hope to sign a trade deal with New Ortage, Taka, and Valinon."

"A legacy then?" Wang smiled, "And a good one at that. I too feel I will soon be handing my company over...to my granddaughter. I have been hoping to make a legacy of my own, but I feel time is running short." Wang said the last silently, almost sadly.

But then he looked up, smiled, and raised his glass, "To legacies." He took a sip of the scotch and savored the flavor in his mouth a few seconds before swallowing.

"To legacy's," Villanova took a sip.

"I've gotten a bit out of the Archduke of New Ortaga - imports, exports, etc. Some of it will overlap, but that's the way of commerce. Competition will spur innovation and growth and that will raise national revenues allowing us to further expand our protection of our trade routes...

Which brings up another question - how do you propose to do shipping? Four point six lightyears is still quite a distance at sublight. I suppose you could rely on Valinon or Sunset shipping to move your goods, but it cuts into your profit margin to lease instead of own. And of course that far at sublight will mean freighters will need to be escorted. More money there."

After he has made sure that the rooms being provided are acceptable, Raphael makes his way toward the rooms of President Villanova. Once he has found that he has gone to see Chairman Wang, Raphael rpaidly makes his way to the other room.

Once at the door he brushes over his suit cut along the lines of the Meiji Emperors, he gives the door a series of sharp raps.

OOC: Actually Wang came to Villanova's room.

IC:
There was a knock at the door, and Villanova rose to answer it. "It sounds like we may be having a little party Mr. Wang..."

"Yes? Who is it?"

"Raphael..."

Recognizing the voice of the New Ortagan Fidelo swung the door open.

"Come in - have a drink and a seat won't you? Mr. Wang and I were just discussing things you would be most welcome to join in on."

The Grand Duke, his adjutant and two of the Guards were escorted to the apartments of the Taraskovyan delegation, while the ten other guards proceeded to their temporary dislocation.

The two Guards took position outside of the apartments, while the two diginitaries went in.

- Your Highness, do you think it is wise to dispatch the guards?

- You fear backstabbing Meher?

Mikhail fixed his young apprentice, pouring some drink into two glasses. Meher said nothing.

- We have nothing to fear. Something happens to us, and the Thylacin in orbit rains SODAT's on New Koln.

The adjutant nodded.

- But, Your Highness, why come here in the first place? I thought the Grand Duchy had no particular interest in Valinon other than seeing it out of the Solar System?

Mikhail grinned and shook his head.

- And the Grand Duchy still has no other interest for Valinon than seeing it out of the Solar System. I am just here for the party, Meher, that is it. If the Emperor has something to discuss, I will. Otherwise - I am just spending the last weeks of the rulership.

Meher suddenly looked around the room.

- Do you think they are listening?

- Wouldn't surprise me. But well, I am here as a guest, not on an either State nor even a Diplomatic visit. They can listen all they want. I just hope the party starts soon.

- You Taraskovyans have a very particular way of doing politics, Your Highness...

Mikhail broke into a laughter, followed by the adjutant...

OOC: Controlled your char a bit, Vortex, hope you don't mind ;)

Taka poured him a glass of the brandy, the lastest securty report playing through his mind. . .

"one is only as old as we feel, the body is decieving my friend, and age is but a number. My father, peace be upon him, lives still, he's older than the entire Empire of Valinon. . . though I doubt he'll live much longer, our bloodline is cursed with. . . ungraceful aging in our final years. . . ."

Gustav smiles wirely at Taka, "Ah, but, my friend, the demon of age has finally got around to catching up with me. And I must admit that in my own aging I am far less capable than I was even just eight years ago."
He downs what is left of the brandy, sighs, and then turns to Taka, "Come, we would not want to be late to the reception."

******

OOC: I will insert the banquet at court here this evening if I have time.

Taka chuckled "it certainly would not do to have the host late for his own reception." He turned and headed towards teh door, holding it for the aging emperor. Taka though for a moment as the Emperor quickly followed him, matching his pace easily despite his despised cane "oh, one final matter. . . I've recieved word that one of your agent's. . . Vacit I belive, recently obtained a permit to poke around a few old labs in my palace. Do you recall issuing that order, or is he working of his own accoard?"

"Raphael!" the CEO exlaimed while getting to his feet and holding out his hand, "It is good to finally meet you. I am Nike Wang, CEO of Wazzu TransCorp. President Villanova and I were just discussing trade issues."

Nike waits for Raphael to answer about the drink then turns towards the national executive, "Yes, it is true that my company does not yet make ships with faster then light drives. It is a weak point of ours, but one that pride demands we solve without outside help. If there is one good thing about it though it is that we have learned to find alternatives.

"You," and he points, smiling and friendly rather then rudely, "are building some form of superluminal gate between planets back home. I want to convince you to open one here.

"A secret in return for yours is my legacy, or was to be it. I want TransCorp to open up on the civilian spacecraft market. It is pretty bare now, we can compete, but I've been having trouble. A gate of yours could enable my ships the boost they need to start production. A boost I'd love to hand to my granddaughter.

"So how do I convince you?"

"I don't think it will take much convincing," Villanova said. There was a knock on the door and a servant was there to walk them to the reception hall.

"As long as trade negotiations," and here he nodded to Raphael, "are completed successfully construction of a gate would be the first priority on the list."

'Never mind that the real reason for the gate is travel to Ares. But a Proxima Centauri gate would be useful considering the short distance to Sol. If the other gates were destroyed or captured a gate here would still be avaliable.'

Fidelo jotted the idea down for later.

The fat man smiled in suprise that such would not take long, but then his massive brows closed in together in thought. "Ares?" he asked.

OOC: 'Never mind that the real reason for the gate is travel to Ares. But a Proxima Centauri gate would be useful considering the short distance to Sol. If the other gates were destroyed or captured a gate here would still be avaliable.'

This is a thought - he isn't saying it aloud.

IC:
The trio walked through the grand hallways admiring the decorations. Fidelo stopped and looked at a pair of Italian dueling rapiers from the 17th century for several minutes before continuing.

Taka chuckled "it certainly would not do to have the host late for his own reception." He turned and headed towards teh door, holding it for the aging emperor. Taka though for a moment as the Emperor quickly followed him, matching his pace easily despite his despised cane "oh, one final matter. . . I've recieved word that one of your agent's. . . Vacit I belive, recently obtained a permit to poke around a few old labs in my palace. Do you recall issuing that order, or is he working of his own accoard?"

Gustav looks momentarily annoyed, "I gave Director Vacit my approval earlier to visit your labs and to talk with some of the scientist there. He seemed very interested in learning something more of some of your technical developments, especially your Articificial Intelligence program. However, I did not realize that he had intended to leave so soon. In fact I thought he would not be going until after festivities were concluded here. However, I assure you that Director Vacit's intentions are merely research oriented, he will no doubt return in no more than a few days."
They board the elevator that will take them to the grat hall of the Palace where the reception is being held.

In the great hall the nobility and the officialdom of the Empire have already started to arrive. The guests including heads of all the imperial ministries, most of the members of the Congress of Nobles, several major members of the Congress of the Commons, reprentatives of the military, and several corporate cartels and interests. A long table dominates the center of the room, waiting until dinner is served to the collected guests of His Majesty. The Palace staff can be seen manuvering through the crowds with trays of drinks and small finger foods, serving the gathering. Along the walls, and down the descending staircase leading to the hall are the crimson and gold uniformed members of the Imperial Sovereign Protectors. The Valinons mingle with each other awaiting the arrival of the guests and His Majesty.

OOC:
Quick list of some important officials, will ad a few later

Imperial Diet and Ministry heads
Duke Leo Sterling, Prime Minister and Minister of Imperial Affairs
Count Viktor Leopold, First Minister of His Majesty's Foreign Affairs
Director Jack Ziegler, Ministry of External State Security
Vice Director Diamyo Bayushi Shoju, Ministry of External State Security
Director Vladmir Ivanovich, Minister of Internal State Security
Lady Diedre Rolt, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Baron Andrei Mironenko, leader of the United Consortium Party and Mining Guilds and Cartels Federation
First Minister Davion Foust, head of the Dominion Party and current head of the Congress of the Commons

Armed Forces
Lord Hanse Young, Supreme Commander of His Majesty's Armed Forces
Lord Reyand Adonis, Lord Marshal of the Sol System Protectorate Zone
Admiral of the Red Sir Adolf von Schmidert, First Lord of the Admiralty
Admiral of the Red Lady Victoria Davenport, Third Lord of the Admiraltly
Admiral of the Red Sir Daniel Trisdant, Fourth Lord of the Admiralty
Admiral of the Red Lady Katherine Adonis, Seventh Lord of the Admiralty
Grand Marshal Baron Michael Vanderstein, Proxima Centauri
Grand Marshal Sir Byron Faulkner, Pholus
Grand Marshal Lord Karl Vieldhelm, Proxima Centauri III
Grand Marshal Pieter Erison, Nessus Prime
Grand Marshal Davis Rienstiendt, Prometheus

Others
Provost Academician Prokhor Zakharov, head of the Imperial University
Sir Jordan Gault, CEO of United Prometheus Mining Corporation
Norman Rogers, CEO of Valinon United Ecological Technologies, Ltd.
Adriana Danziger, CEO of Nova Technologies Conglomerate
Lord Reynold Grayson, CEO of Celestial Interstellar Shipping, Inc.
Sir Xavier Whitmore, CEO of Twin Star Line Corporation

Taka though for a few seconds, before nodding slowly "yes, the only reason I ask is that the labs haven't been prepared for his arrival, meaning in essesnce the guards will not willingly allow him through, and the security system will track him for termination. . . I hope he can take care of himself, though more likely I hope he is able to clean up after himself. I've not looked over the dossiers, but from what I've seen he is in the NESS laboratories, and they contain. . . delicate projects of mine, I hope you understand that I was a little concerned when we discovered he had begun his research before we were ready for him."

Major Sergi Pluskat was led into the reception room and was taken aback by the decorations of the place. The long table of food in the center, with almost every delicacy known to man.

He spotted someone in a uniform, and thought that it would be nice to mingle a bit.

He walked over to the gentleman, who was casually sipping his drink, and spoke up.

"Amazing reception, eh"

Right after he said it though, the uniformed man turned, and revealed that he was a Valinon Grand Marshall.

Sergi Cursed himself for speaking so informally to him and could only hope for the best...

Fidelo grabbed three drinks off a passing waiter and handed one to each of his companions.

"To Valinon Hospitality!"

Waiting for the other two to finish their drink before he continued he looked around the room.

"We should not discuss business too long - it is hardly polite to hammer out a trade agreement at a reception," he said with a smile.

ooc: GDT, no problem. Technically, he'll do whatever you tell him to do anyway :D

Major Sergi Pluskat was led into the reception room and was taken aback by the decorations of the place. The long table of food in the center, with almost every delicacy known to man.

He spotted someone in a uniform, and thought that it would be nice to mingle a bit.

He walked over to the gentleman, who was casually sipping his drink, and spoke up.

"Amazing reception, eh"

Right after he said it though, the uniformed man turned, and revealed that he was a Valinon Grand Marshall.

Sergi Cursed himself for speaking so informally to him and could only hope for the best...

Pieter Erison turns toward the man who spoke to him, momentarily relieved by at least a small break in formality. He looks at the man, recognizing him as one of the representatives from the various other nations invited to the ceremony.
"Indeed it is," Erison says. "I remember you from the newscast, but would care to refresh my memory a little?"

Fidelo grabbed three drinks off a passing waiter and handed one to each of his companions.

"To Valinon Hospitality!"

Waiting for the other two to finish their drink before he continued he looked around the room.

"We should not discuss business too long - it is hardly polite to hammer out a trade agreement at a reception," he said with a smile.

Nike Wang rose his glass to the toast, then quickly agreed, "Indeed, buisness has its time and place. This time, I think, is better served cerimonously."

The High Prince scanned the room, formaly greeting diplomats as he passed by them.

"quite a turn out" he said to the emperor "I knew you were popular and had many outside alliances and friends, but didn't quite expect this many."

Sergi Responded ,Remembering that he was at a Party, and not on Parade Grounds
"Yes,Sir, I am Major Sergi Pluskat of the Chochezkoo Committee for State Security, And you Sir?"

Gustav smiles wirely, "I have taken it upon myself to do at least one thing with my reign, High Prince, and that was to bring the Empire out of its long isolation. Personally, I think I have suceeded beyond my wildest dreams."
The pair stands at the top of the main stairwell, just far back enough to be hidden in the shadows.
"And now if my son and your daughter would join us we would proceed," Gustav looks with something caught between mock and real impatience at his pocket watch.

******

Meanwhile, in the great hall....
Erison grows a little bit more formal for just one moment, "I am Pieter Erison, His Majesty's Grand Marshal of the world of Nessus Prime. I have heard only a little of Chocezkoo perhaps you would like to tell me more?"
But then a Imperial Sovereign Protector Captain comes to the top of the stairwell, "Announcing His Majesty Emperor Gustav Alderman I, The Most High Prince Taka, Crown Prince Rowald Alderman, and Her Grace Princess Ami!"
With that the crowd seems to turn, the multitudes of Valinon's rich and powerful looking toward their monarch and soon to be brethern in arms with respect and much pride.

******

Gustav stands a little straighter as he hears approaching footsteps. He turns with Taka to see Rowald and Ami rapidly approaching.
"Ah, at last. Having fun?" Gustav says to his son with feigned annoyance.
"I apologize, Father," Rowald saids coming to stand before the two with Ami at his arm.
"No need, no need," Gustav says. He motions to a Sovereign Protector captain nearby, "Let us go shall we?"

"Indeed, I would say you have my friend, never in my three hundred years have I seen any man gain the suport and following you have, and I assure you, I've seen many try. but, let us hurry, Ami" He sweeps his hand down the staircase, allowing the prince and his daughter to lead the way into the group of people.

Taka sees Gustav eyes grow wide for a moment, although the reaction is quickly subdued. It will be several more minutes until they are together again, after they have made the necessaries of Court politeness to a few eager officials and lords. After the few moments, Gustav apparently has effectively used the soon-to-be-wedded couple as a flak shield to gain Taka and himself a breather. He quietly steers the High Prince away from the largest clustering of ears and eyes.
"Pardon me, High Prince," Gustav says in quieter tones, "but did I here you correctly in saying that you are three hundred years old?"

Sergi Was about to respond to the Grand Marshall when there was an anouncment.

The soon to be couple was introduced,as well as the Emperor and the Crown Prince.

Sergi Gave a Whistle at the marvelous apparel of the "Royalty Class" then turned back to Pieter.

"Ah yes, Chochezkoo, It is a marvelous country." He started
"Wonderful Countryside, in some parts, there are Great Sprawling Fields, and in others, Dense Fir Forests dotted with lakes and laced with rivers" Sergi paused for a moment. "Ah but you don't want to know about that. We have a fairly steady government there, but our leader.... Is not the best we've ever seen" He finished

OOC: Due to the premature decease of the thread, the Grand Duchy hereby withdraws all of its and related characters from this thread.

Thank you for your attention. :wink: