NationStates Jolt Archive

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This thread will follow the events of the negotiating of relations between the Grand Dominion of Drakonian Imperium and the Republic of New Iona and the establishment of future relations between those two nations.

Invited Nations Drakonian Imperium
New IonaAll further posting will now be,
IC (In-Character):

The diplomatic jet dipped slightly as it passed through turbulence miles above the far off ocean. Inside, now one really noticed. Most were absorded in doing their own thing. Many of the diplomatic team were sleeping, other listening to music, and just a few, including former Senator Aetius Cispius, were reading through the breifing information on the small nation of New Iona.

The former Senator, marked a passage on the New Iona Nano Technology, which had brought the small nation to the attention of Drakonia. He flipped to the attached information on Ionan Nano Technology and the knowledge Drakonian scientists had on the subject. After skimming that he flipped back to the breifing and continued.

In the aircrafts cockpit the pilot sounded off to the Ionan International Airport they would be landing at. "New Ionan Air Traffic Control, this is Drakonian Diplomatic Flight 734. Transmitting global coordinates and confirming arrival in one hour, over."

As the pilot waited for a reply, the jet aircraft flew on inexorably over the sea. It would be the bearer of a strong future relationship between the two nation. All aboard new that.

Secretary of State John Timberlake glanced at his watch. He took a sip of his coffee and rubbed his temple. The arrival of the Drakonian Diplomatic was very much anticipated. The arrival of the diplomat was a symbolic advancement for the New Ionan governement. Finally, New Iona would reach out to the world. Needless to say, the secretary was quite stressed. This meeting was the begining for New Iona to make a bid as a world power. The Nano Technology is being sought after by many nations and it is very important for New Iona to have strong allies with this new found technology.

"Sir, we just received word that the Drakonian plane has entered our air space." Said a young assistant. The Secretary took a quick gulp of his coffee and smiled, "Well, let's go make history!"

"...Please, bring you seats and tray backs to their forward and locked position as we make our final descentant into New Iona...."

Drakonian Diplomatic Flight 734 started it's descent toward President Joshua Burrill International Airport in New Iona. Soon, talks would begin formally, but former Drakonian Senator Aetius Cispius was not worried. It was all an old game to him. The former Imperial Senator had been the Director of the Drakonian Diplomatic Corps, just before he had run for the Senate. His experience in these matter was considerable and he was confident thing would go well.

Idly, the former Senator switched on the television in the jet airliner. He turned it to the Emirate News Network, hoping to catch the latest on the assassination attempts in Drakonia. He was especially hoping to catch the latest on the status of the Praetor and Queen.

"...A recent poll showed that 79% of Drakonians use the term "Pop", while their neighbors in Tersanctus prefer the term "Soda" by a large 85%...."

Aetius Cispius ignored the latest news, which from what it was about, would indicate that it was a slow news day. He looked at the bottom of the broadcast where a row of information scrolled past, marquing across other news stories. He saw that both the Praetor and Queen were still listed as in Critical Condition and turned the television off.

The jet liner's jerked barely noticably as the landing gear extended and then the craft was descending rapidly. The ground could be seen shooting up toward the aircraft. There was jerk, and the speeding jet touched down. Finally, it slowed and pulled of toward the diplomatic terminal at the President Joshua Burrill Airport.

The Drakonian Delegation had arrived.

As John Timberlake gazed at the aircraft that had just landed, he smiled. Although what he knew of Drakonium Government was limited, he knew they liked to impress. The plane that the Senator arrived in, was enormous, however, the structure was not at all impressive to the secretary. "Well, that is a big big plane, but nothing like our slender and sleek transport vechicles. I bet we could leave that plane in our dust, without accessing our full power." John Timberlake laughed. Although, he had to admit the plane seemed more than capable of defending itself.

However, in case of any mishaps the secretary had ordered undercover operatives to secure the airport and look for suspicouis activity. New Iona in a whole is peaceful Nation, but being careful never hurt anyone. Besides a lunatic fringe was protesting the meeting with the Senator.

"Ok, lets review what know of this country so far?" Timberlake questioned as he walked outside to meet the Drakonium diplomat. "Well sir, they are a monarchy! Very active in military and we are still debating their motives for engaging in talks with us." a young assistant standing next to the secretary of state said. " Nevermind their motives, as long as they mean peace, and as long as they are willing to help improve our world we will talk to them. We will talk about policy later." Replied the now nervous Secretary of State.

As the secretary reached the landing dock and awaited for the senator to and his delegates to come out, he thought to himself. He wondered earnestly what were these peoples motives for coming out to talk now? Were they just after the advanced Nanotechnology? Did they know how advanced New Iona has gotten? What if this was a mission to set up a spy network for the Drakonium empire. Whatever, the case the President had been earnest about the importance of this meeting. The President had conferred with the "The Gifted Ones" and they advised him to finally step forward. But why now?

As if in a blurry, the secretary was brought out of the thought by a start by his assistant. "Well looks like we are going to finally meet these Drakonium. I just hope their not as barbaric as they seem."
"Just calm down, if we are going to have a good relationship with these people, we must trust them."
John Timberlake breathed a sigh and stepped forward, and saw a stout older looking man, probably in his 50's step out from the plane. He was dressed in a satin robe and looked very wise. Some of the secretary's assistants grinned and a couple let out a couple of giggles. "Well here goes nothing" Thought the secretary.

"Welcome Senator to the country of New Iona. May your stay here be blessed by the "Gifted Ones" and our President and nation are grateful for your visit. As a token of our appreciation, we would like you to accept two gifts. First we have a Mirtha Crystal, it is precious jewel in our country and this particular crystal helps in solving minor ailments. Second, please take this ancient Mirtha bracelet, this bracelet represents safe passage and wish of good life to you and your people." The Secretary smiled as he said this and thought, "Well no going back now!"

The Drakonian arrival had been the usual show of "Greatness, Power, and Authority" (an old Drakonian Adage). The aircraft was as the John Timberlake had noted impressive. It was large, with a shining white silver hull. There was a grouping of chromatic stripes vertically along the massive jet from nose to tail; a core line of gold, flanked by a pair of thin black, then a pair of red, and finally bordered by black. The tail and wingtips bore the circular Dragon Seal of the Imperium, featuring an impressive greyish purple Dragon.

The exiting of the goliath diplomatic transport was just as impressive. Walking in formation a pair of Praetorian Guards took positions to flank the landing dock. The Full Dress Uniforms of the Guardsmen were jet black, trimmed with highlights of royal purple and gold. Both Praetorians were fully-armed assualt rifles, each tipped with a bayonet. Everything was well thought out and carried out with perfect ceremony.

As the former Senator stepped into the airport, he also was flanked by a pair of Praetorian Guards. His staff followed. A small group of well dressed suited individuals and a team of Emirate New Network (ENN) reporters. Aetius Cispius was dressed in a gold-decorated crimson satin robe that covered a simple oriental black and white suit. All in all his outfit set off his moderate black skin. As he passed the first two Praetorians saluted, smacking their right fists onto their chest just above their hearts, in perfect unison.

Aetius smiled broadly, meeting the Secretary of State of New Iona, he bowed his head slightly (a tradition Drakonian show of respect). "Greetings, Sir." He recieved the gifts. "I except your gift with humility, for the Imperium, and thank you." The former Senator bowed again.

Having research New Iona and it's customs, the Aetius was not caught off his guard. He had been prepared for the traditional gift-giving. "In turn I would like to offer you a gift." He gestured behind him and one of the diplomatic staff stepped forward bearing the gift. "Several actually, all hand crafted, something we value greatly."

At first it seemed a simple basket, but then you noticed the detail and contents inside. The basket itself was intricately hand woven (to the point of it being amazing someone could produce something so spectacularly complex with only their hands). Inside were other treasures. The best fresh Citrus of several kinds: Oranges, Grapefruits, and Limes. There were also was a handcrafted necklaced, made of jeweled beads. All in all it was nothing compared to the value, or did it have the impact at it's sight, as the New Ionan gift, but that was not the point. It was meant to show commitment to the forming of the alliance.

"I am very glad for the future of our nations we will be discussing and especially of the privelege to be able to visit your nation," the former Senator continued. "It is a true pleasure."

John Timberlake was surprised with the gift in response, and found that the gifts were very pleasing. The craftsmanship was amazing and beautiful. The gifts would of course be documented and then sent to the National Historic Musum for display. The secretary was impressed, the Drakonium people must have done some research of their own on New Iona.

The secretary could tell some of his assistants were uncomfortable with the amount of military personal that the senator brought, but they were all warned that was the Drakonium custom and not to be alramed. However, the John Timberlake wondered what the response would be when he asked that the guards leave their weapons aboard the airplane. The issue was that it was illegal for anyone to bear weapons except the military.

"Senator, If I may, could you tell your troops to leave their weapons onboard your plane. It is a matter of obedience to our laws, and we see that everyone is subject to the law in New Iona. I hope you can understand." said the Secretary as confident as he could. He did not wish to have a incident 5 minutes into the meeting of the two nations.

The former Senator nodded in acknowledgement and agreement. "I can," he replied, indicating his understanding.

Following the group out of the aircraft was the Captain in Command of the Praetorian Guard detachment, flanked by two more Praetorians. Catching the exchange between the New Ionan Secretary of State and the former Senator, he dismissed the two Praetorians, who returned to the Jumbo Jet.

Knowing what needed to be done next he proceeded. "Praetorians," he barked the order. "Surrender, Firearms."

There was a crisp snap as the Praetorians pulled their bayoneted rifles from their shoulders and extended them. The Praetorian Guard's New Ionan counterparts responded promptly by recieving the rifles. In perfect harmony and ceremony the Guardsmen removed the pistols from their hips and turned them over to their New Ionan counterparts. There was a final snap as the Praetorians snapped back to attention, the Gladius Short Swords still at their sides.

The act held shrouded symbolism. It was a show of trust.

Drakonians are a proud people, who have a long noble history, which is the root of their pride. Honor is another root of that pride. Honor, which sometimes must be upheld by armed conflict; War. Thus weapons have been a necessary evil to Drakonia. Yet, for that same reason they are something that each Drakonian places his or her respect in. For something designed to kill must be treated with respect and grave responsibility.

Turning over one's weapon to another, to a Drakonian is a thing of solemn trust. Not something to be abused.

John Timberlake breathed a sigh of relief and smiled. The senators' response was perfect. "Well Senator we thank you so much for you understanding, I want you to know that there are always government agents at your disposable for your protection if you wish. There will always be a escort at your command. Now, if you will come with me, the limouisine will take us to the Presidential Palace."

The senator stepped inside the limo with the secretary and the vechicle started to move. OF course the car was lead and followed by other vechicles and the secretary had seen to it that the flag of the Drakonium Imperium flew along with the New Ionan flag.

In the vechicle John Timberlake began telling the senator about the agriculture and technology advance New Iona has made. A subject of interest that seemed to interest the senator was the topic of worldwide satellite system that was used as a defense grid for the country of New Iona. It seemed odd to the secretary that out of all they could have talked about the senator was more intrigued by a military matter.

In the Limousine the secretary handed the senator a rare wine from 1947. THe senator seemed to enjoy the taste so much he chugged the wine down and poured himself another glass. The secretary smiled, obviously the senator did not know how to enjoy things in moderation, and that New Ionan wine was supposed to be sipped slowly. But to make the senator feel comfortable the Secretary chugged his glass and filled it as well. Luckily New Ionan wine was not potent in alcohol. In fact the less alcohol in the wine, the better quality.

"Well, Senator we will be arriving at the palace soon and President Burrill is eager to meet with you. He is actually starting his first year in his first term so he's a young President. but the people basically elected him unamiounsly. I must say it's nice to talk with you alone and without all our assistants. It's a bit more comfortable. I'm not much for grandeur myself." Timberlake said as he took another gulp of wine.

The senator smiled and held his glass high.

The former Senator Aetius Cispius enjoyed the wine (rather quickly) and the ride in the limosine. His support staff and Praetorian Guard escorts followed in the one the vehicles with the limosine. The motorcade made it's way through the New Ionan cityscape without incident.

"Unamiously, you say." Aetius seemed impressed or strangly curious, it was nearly impossible to say which. "Now that is impresssive. I would have thought the democratic process to involve more disagreement on political matters. I would be interested to hear how he accomplished this."

Following the change in subject, the former Senator Cispius replied to the Secretary of States' comments. "Yes, despite appearances I can understand the wish to get away from granduer at times." Yet, his career as a public official and diplomat had demanded otherwise as it appeared had that of the Mr. Timberlake.

John Timberlake was filling the Drakonium Senator in on the history of New Iona and the young President. "Well basically, President Burrill has done so much for our country and for the first in our political structure the candidate seemed to have a high degree of integrity. He also proposed what is happening between us now, that New Iona reach out to the rest of the world." As the secretary said this to senator he saw the Drakonium ambassador was puzzled. "Well anyways looks like we are arriving at the Palace. If you look over the hill, you wil see it. IT always gave the secretary pride to look upon the Palace. With the design of modern day architecture, the building was also imposed with classic Greek tecture to it with still a flare of Medieval Grandeur and size. The Palace was a sight to take the breath away.

The secretary could tell the senator was very intrigued and he sat in silence as he gazed at the immense and majestic Palace. Timberlake grinned with pride. "Beautiful isn't it?! The palace has been a symbol of our countries qualities for years. You see the Golden Eagle on the Pedestal overlooking the city of New Mirtha. Thats our national animal and a symbol also of New Ionan power and grace."

The senator looked impressed although he didn't say a word as he took in all the sights. As they drove they drew closer to the Palace and reached the central security gate. At the gate the secretary watched as a Agent checked the DNA signature of the lead driver and went on to inspect the rest of the Limos. THe way he did this was to reflect a beam of blue light into the drivers eyes and if they passed the security gate opened for the one driver. This was a slow process but had to be done to insure the upmost security. The PResident had complained on how hard it was for him to leave the Palace because the same process is done when anyone left the palace. After the ssecurity check was finished the Limos drove through the gate and the Ssecretary started to get nervous. He new the President would not meet with the senator until the State Dinner later that evening but he knew that the Presidents Staff was awaiting them. Timberlake had ordered all of the PResidents cabinet present at the Senators arrival. Timberlake tightened his tie and took a quick swig of the wine and prepared for next phase in the diplomatic procedure.

Aetius caught John Timberlakes' nervousness, and smiled inwardly. These things could be stressful.

Deciding to help the man relieve some of his nervousness, he spoke. "Yes, it is impressive and seems to represent New Iona very fittingly."

He continued as the limosine approached the Presidential Palace. "But, anyway, I assume that you wished privacy was to have a preliminary discussion about this alliance we are creating. To start that conversion I can outline Drakonian's wishes and offerings. We're offer free trade, research trading and cooperation, as well as of course defense of New Iona. If there is anything else we can offer, you need just ask. What we wish is similar, free trade, reasearch trading and cooperation, and later on their may be other things, but they will negotiable, of course."

John Timberlake almost choked on his own air, this was a surprise he was not expecting to talk so soon about foreign affairs. Obviously this senator wanted to get down to business. "Well Senator, I am surprised by your forthright. I must say, however, it does do alot of good to talk this over, but perhaps we could wait until we have officail talks. I can assure you our governments wants to establish the best situation for both of us." The secretary smiled, "Well looks like we are here, shall we?" John Timberlake waited for the car door to be opened by an agent and he stepped out and the senator followed. The cabinet members were all standing alined, dressed in the conservative suits looking humurously nervous and unaware of what to do. There was a company of officially dressed Military personal lining the sides of the sidewalk dressed in there best attire.

John Timberlake almost choked on his own air, this was a surprise he was not expecting to talk so soon about foreign affairs. Obviously this senator wanted to get down to business. "Well Senator, I am surprised by your forthright. I must say, however, it does do alot of good to talk this over, but perhaps we could wait until we have officail talks. I can assure you our governments wants to establish the best situation for both of us." The secretary smiled, "Well looks like we are here, shall we?" John Timberlake waited for the car door to be opened by an agent and he stepped out and the senator followed. The cabinet members were all standing alined, dressed in the conservative suits looking humurously nervous and unaware of what to do. There was a company of officially dressed Military personal lining the sides of the sidewalk dressed in there best attire.

"Understandable," Aetius replied, still totally calm. This was nothing new to him. The former Senator was, however, surprised at just how jumpy the New Ionan Secretary of State was. Did this mean that much to them. The former Senator was honored.

Aetius nodded and followed John Timberlake out of the limosine. He noted the Presidential Palace and was impressed. Modern, functional, yet also classical. He noted the difference between the Presidential Palace and the Grand Praetorian Palace in Drakonian. The Presidential Palace seemed to emphasize the modern aspects, while taking it's style from the past. The Grand Praetorian Palace was much the opposite. On the outside it was an ancient ornate and large mansion, but cleverly disguised was the latest technology used to keep the Palace 'up-to-date', security, telecommunications, and all the basic necessities (and some not so basic) were masterfully build into the Palace and grounds.

"An impressive building," Aetius commented, following the Secretary of State.

The former Senator also noted the various New Ionan officials. They all also seemed nervous. Very expressive people, he noted mentally. Drakonians in general kept their emotions very well hidden, except anger. It was said in legend, that the Drakonian Anger was Dragon in origin, and anyone having beheld that anger would not disagree. So it is that Drakonians have a reputation for being hot tempered, at times. But, those Drakonians with such anger controlled it, very tightly. Anger is only one of the more know Drakonian attributes. There is also strong compassion and idealistic moralism. Nevertheless, in general as a culture, many Drakonians do not display much emotion.

Aetius felt as if he was the Praetor, himself for all their nervousness. This must mean a very lot to them, he decided. I'll have to make sure nothing destroys it.

He worked his way down the line, greeting each official personally and by name with the traditional New Ionan greeting and then inclining slightly his head in a Drakonian Show of Respect. He expressed his gratitude at being able to represent his nation to New Ionan and build a lasting friendship between the two nations and stated his honor (something Drakonians value highly) at meeting each and every official. Each official recieved his personal attention and then he moved on.

John Timberlake after excusing himself from the welcome party, left the Drakonium senator with the delegates from Congress and New Ionan Parliament. They all seemed very intrigued in the strange, but noble Diplomat from another country. The secretary pondered what must be going through the senators mind and smiled.

The secretary of state approached the door to the presidents office and sighed, he didn't know how to brief the encounter with the Drakonium diplomat. As he opned the door, John Timberlake was surprised to find the President on the phone phone looking very worried. President Burrill was a very young man, but a man of much emotion and some would call it weakness, but others call it passion. The president motioned him in and finally sighed and hung up the phone. "Well, looks like Congress is appealing my decision to undergo diplomatic relations with the Drakonium governement. They've made it official. They vote in two weeks, so we have that much time to create policies with their government and have contact with their Praector before decides to oblish my desicion to engage in diplomatic talks with the Drakoniums. Two weeks to form an alliance with one nation." The President slumped in his chair and loosened hig tie and took a swig of ice tea. " What are the reasons they gave you" John Timberlake asked as he sat down and looked at the PResident intently.
"The history, and track record of the Drakoniums are very warlike and the hostile nature of the Drakoniums. Congress feels to engage in talks with them would be dangerous for fear of bringing their enemies to us. I think it's the same fear it's always been, they don't trust the Drakonium's. They believe there government knows about "The Project" and the integrity and secret of the technology will be stolen and misused. BAsically they believe that the Drakoniums are going to use us to set up a spy network and steal our technology. Which I must admit is plausible." The president shrugged and stared blankly at the wall across from him. The secertary felt sorry for the President and knew the dilemnia the PResident was facing. Suddenly the President stood up and smiled. "I know I'm going to hear about this, but oh well, have the Senator brought here to my office, by himself and himself only. Have my staff take the day off, and have my private transport vechicle ready in my personal parking dock. The Senator and I are going to have a heart to heart. Also, John get the senator and I some towels I think we are going to go swiming." The president said this and grinned. Whatever the PResident was up to, JOhn Timberlake knew that it would be interesting.

As in New Iona, Aetius Cispius was meeting with the New Ionan government officials, in Drakonia, Diana Minerva, Director of the Drakonian Diplomatic Corps and the woman who had replaced the former Senate in that same position, was watching the news.

"...Today, a Drakonian Diplomatic team arrived in New Iona to begin negotiations for an alliance between the two nations. Concerns were raised in the New Ionan Congress, which turned into a full appeal of the possible alliance. Congressional critics cited their concern over Drakonia's percieved warmongering, mainly in the Imperium's past. Yet, the discission made by President Joshua Burrill of New Iona will be upheld until a vote can be made in the New Ionan Congress and it is thought that Drakonian will continue it's attempts at relations nevertheless between themselves and New Iona whichever way the vote goes. How this will effect...."

Director Diana Minerva switched off the television and the Emirate New Network report.

This complicates matters, she thought, running over in her mind possible options. Her quick break was quickly turning into work she realized far too late to do anything about. She popped open her laptop and quickly typed an E-Mail to her predecessor and now subordinate in New Iona, apprising him of the situation and giving him possible options to try and rectify it as quickly as possible.

Far too often, Drakonia was consider a warmongering and/or warlike nation. It's past was full of it's share of conflicts, but for a nation of it's age that was to be expected. Still the misconception persisted, perpetuated by the appearance of the Drakonian Culture to outsiders. Part of this was due to the strong honor code that had developed in the rich culture (something mimiced in the other nations of the continent of Nusquam Esse) and part because of the strong spirit of action and sometimes hot tempers of Drakonians.

Drakonia would not shy away from a fight, especially when it would bring about benefit to others. In East Turkestan they had rushed to the rescue of a beliguered government being destroyed by rebellion and terrorism, In Raem they had rushed to save humans from the butchery, slavery, and torchure of brutal Dark Eldars bent on destruction and conquest, in Tersanctus (Drakonia's eastern neighbor, once oldest worst enemy, and now closest ally) it had help bring out a new democratic government and build a powerful international alliance, and the examples continued throughout the past. There were man instances of were military force had brought about a betterment that diplomatic or economic force would not and could not.

But, that was not the problem; perception was the problem. And, across the globe Aetius Cispius, former Director of the Drakonian Diplomatic Corps and former Senator, knew this.

As the former Senator was meeting with each and every New Ionan official personally and individually, one of his diplomatic team stepped forward and whispered the new in his ear. He nodded his understand and continued.

{Really Long well-done post, apparently eat by the goblins that inhabit the forums and summed up below}

Aetius Cispius, the leader of the Drakonian Diplomatic Expedition to New Iona, chatted with the New Ionan officials personally answering their questions about Drakonia, Drakonian culture, the continent of Nusquam Esse, and anything else he could until the Secretary of State John Timberlake returned. He escorted the former Senator into the Presidential Palace to the office of the President. The Drakonian escorts and the New Ionan Secretary of State were dismissed so the two men could meet privately on the future of relation between their two nations.

President Joshua Burrill was a not a tall asian man, but he had a definite charisma to him that was undeniable. He spoke with heart and fealing on the future of their two nations, the friendship they were here to create, and how to establish that friendship. He was an impressive orator as well. Then he surprised Aetius by offering a Mirtha Healing Crystal to Drakonia.

Drakonians are a skeptical people, while they accept that there is much in the world that they do not understand or that is "magical" they still are very distrustful of such things. If the crystal itself had been recovered by Drakonians it would have been carefully studied. Then it would have been crated up and taken to a secret warehouse to collect dust. This had happened to many mystical, magical, and scientificly advanced artifacts.

But a gift was entirely a different matter. While their skepticism would keep the Drakonians from using anything but their own modern medicine to heal their leader, the crystal would be displayed in the Grand Praetorian Palace for many ages to comes, held as a sign of honor, friendship, and alliance.

"I thank you, for Praetor and his Queen, for my nation, and for my self," Aetius responded with skill. Even though he was surprised and caught off guard by the gift, he quickly knew how to respond. "It is a great honor and I am sorry that I have nothing to give in return of similar value, other than the friendship of my nation."