NationStates Jolt Archive

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His Most Catholic and Imperial Majesty
Andreus
Emperor of Pantocratoria, Autocrator of the Romans, King of France and Navarre, Equal of the Apostles, et al.

cordially invites all heads of state and heads of governments to attend a
Summit at Chateau Chantouillet
in the Holy and Most August Empire of Pantocratoria


It is our most sincere desire to forge new bonds with the nations of the world, resolve misunderstandings, and to strengthen our ties with all nations of good will. We understand this desire is not unique, and that there are many governments which share similar sentiments. We invite all heads of governments and heads of state to meet at Chateau Chantouillet, in the Pantocratorian countryside, as our guests. At Chantouillet it is our sincerest hope that the issues which confront the world today may be discussed, that new friendships be formed and old ones rekindled.

Issued under our seal in the thirty first year of our reign,

Andreus Imp. Pantocratoria

***

Attached to the invitation

***

Chateau Chantouillet

http://members.optusnet.com.au/a_marrington/nationstates/chateau.jpg

Chantouillet is a picturesque palace in the Pantocratorian countryside built in the late baroque style by Emperor Louis I in the early 19th century. It was a place to which the Imperial Court could retreat to escape the bustle of New Rome. Its grounds are vast and provide excellent hunting, which made it a particular favourite for Louis.

http://members.optusnet.com.au/a_marrington/nationstates/fr_511_bd.jpg

Chantouillet's ballrooms and great halls provide the ideal venue for a large international summit, and guests will be lodged in a manner befitting their prestigious status.

Your Imperial Majesty,

I most earnestly wish to join your Summit in person, however, responsiblities in the Holy Empire conspire to keep me from attending. The same situation, well known to you and your court, similiarly requires that my Imperial Chancellor, the Lady Freedman, remain in the capital. With your permission, and in the interest of expanding our diplomatic contacts, I should like to send my sister, Princess Christianna, to represent Excalbia at the Summit.

With warmest regards,
David IV of Excalbia

To Whom it May Concern.

Please remove us from your mailing list. I have no need to "grow my manhood" or a prescription for Viagra.

Waitaminute...woops!

Apologies, I was mistaken. Dang spam filter.

I, Darius Steele, President elect of Gawdly, would be pleased to come to your fancy do. Is the beer free?

Your Imperial Majesty,

I most earnestly wish to join your Summit in person, however, responsiblities in the Holy Empire conspire to keep me from attending. The same situation, well known to you and your court, similiarly requires that my Imperial Chancellor, the Lady Freedman, remain in the capital. With your permission, and in the interest of expanding our diplomatic contacts, I should like to send my sister, Princess Christianna, to represent Excalbia at the Summit.

With warmest regards,
David IV of Excalbia

Your Imperial Majesty,

Her Imperial Highness would be most welcome to represent Excalbia at the Summit. I understand that Her Imperial Highness also expressed the desire to see the Despotate of New Constantinople on her last visit, she would be welcome to visit New Constantinople as part of this trip to Pantocratoria.

With warmest regards to Your Majesty,
ANDREUS IMP PANTOCRATORIA

To Whom it May Concern.

Please remove us from your mailing list. I have no need to "grow my manhood" or a prescription for Viagra.

Waitaminute...woops!

Apologies, I was mistaken. Dang spam filter.

I, Darius Steele, President elect of Gawdly, would be pleased to come to your fancy do. Is the beer free?

Your Excellency,

Astonishing as we find it that you would actually write "waitaminute... woops" and "Apologies, I was mistaken" instead of ripping up the sheet of paper and starting again, we would be happy for you to attend the summet at Chantouillet. The beer, as with all our hospitality, is free.

Formally yours,
ANDREUS IMP PANTOCRATORIA

Your Majesty,

I would be honored to attend your Summit, to have the opportunity to meet so many distinguished leaders as yourself and others in person and have the chance to establish fresh diplomatic contacts with newer nations, as well as strengthening old ties with countries we've known for a longer time.

Regards,

[signed]

Khaled Rashid Brahim
President of the Arab Republic of Al-Sabir

Your Excellency,

Astonishing as we find it that you would actually write "waitaminute... woops" and "Apologies, I was mistaken" instead of ripping up the sheet of paper and starting again, we would be happy for you to attend the summet at Chantouillet. The beer, as with all our hospitality, is free.

Formally yours,
ANDREUS IMP PANTOCRATORIA

My Dearest Impy,

Apologies, old chap...I hit the "send" button before I had a chance to edit my reply. No foul, no harm done?

I would like to bring a gift to commemorate this moment...how does a six-pack of virgins sound??

Darius Steele
President for Life
Gawdly

Grand Chancellor Francis Marlet will be officially attending as Jeruselem's representative for the Queen Mariah I of Jeruselem. He will be bringing his wife and daughter to Pantocratoria as an DotF ally and fellow Catholic nation.

God bless

Your Majesty,

I would be honored to attend your Summit, to have the opportunity to meet so many distinguished leaders as yourself and others in person and have the chance to establish fresh diplomatic contacts with newer nations, as well as strengthening old ties with countries we've known for a longer time.

Regards,

[signed]

Khaled Rashid Brahim
President of the Arab Republic of Al-Sabir
Your Excellency,

I look forward to meeting you in person at Chantouillet, and to establishing friendly and productive relations between our two great nations.

ANDREUS IMP PANTOCRATORIA

Grand Chancellor Francis Marlet will be officially attending as Jeruselem's representative for the Queen Mariah I of Jeruselem. He will be bringing his wife and daughter to Pantocratoria as an DotF ally and fellow Catholic nation.

God bless
The Grand Chancellor will be made most welcome as Her Majesty's official representative. Should Her Majesty wish to attend also, she would be made most welcome.

OOC: I'll get the ball rolling with the RP once a few more nations sign up! If people want to pass links to this thread around to nations with whom they've RPed before, that'd be great! The more the merrier!

Your Imperial Majesty,


It is with deep sorrow that I respond. Due to pending matters of state to witch I must attend, it will be impossible for Myself to attend your summit. In My stead I am sending My Minister of the People, Sellan Dreed. She is the Highest ranking elected official in My Queendom and is well qualified to represent My interests.

It is so decreed.

Queen Ellinore D'Cordell Fennevall

Teritora would be glad to attend this conference held by our fellow DOF ally, I will personally attend this conference.

King Alern Tor Asha

(The message was in elegant traditional parchment, sealed by the Royal Seal, and hand delivered by an Aerion Royal Courier straight to the office of the Emperor.)

Your Imperial Majesty,

While His Majesty cannot attend in person, he sends his regards, and has declared that the Lord High Chancellor Lethar Eksar, second Great Officer of State, shall attend this event as His Majesty's official representative. Please be it known that the Lord High Chancellor's retinue and staff consists of 160 others, so if possible accomodations will be made for them near the Chateau it would be well.

Sincerely,
His Majesty's Principal Secretary

OOC: Presuming that Sukothai's visit is over, he might attend. But there's a war going on, so maybe not. If not, I'll sned someone else.

OOC: Fishing for a few more participants before the summit will be launched!

A seemingly robotic bird flies into the residence of the leader of Pantocratoria, and lands on a certain coffee table. It chirps, before displaying a holovid message:

Your Majesty,

I am pleased to inform you that the Technocratic Republic of Anime-Otakus will be sending a delegation to attend this summit in the interests of forging bilateral ties with all other countries, and of course, Your Exalted Empire. Presidential duties prevent myself from attending, but my Vice-Premier Kim Hyuk Dong, and my Minister for Foreign Affairs Lacus Clyne shall be present.

Also, I apologise for the unorthodox way of delivering this message, and any chaos to your defence systems my robotic messenger may have caused. You may keep this as a pet of sorts. :)

Kimura Kouichi
President
Republic of Anime-Otakus

A young Lady in the outfit of a Royal Jocastan messenger walks in and hands a letter writen on thick ivory paper to Andreus.

Your majesty,
I would be pleased to send my Heir Neamail Yocasta, and her Royal consort, to your summit in leu of myself as I must be within my country for the Royal ceremonies that accompany the begining of the Scholarly year. Her retenue will be less than 5 score people, and on my orders she shall bring some of the local specialty dishes for the enjoyment of all.

Her Royal Magesty,
Queen Selane Yocasta

http://members.optusnet.com.au/a_marrington/nationstates/chateau.jpg

You know, if any tall non-humans attend the conference, I hope they don't bump their head on the gate (on the outside) or the ceiling (while within)...

OOC: They'd have to be a few metres high Syskeyia!

(ps bump for one or two more acceptances)

OOC: Let's get the ball rolling then since it looks like we've got all the takers we're going to get for now.

IC:

For more information about Pantocratoria, please consult the following factfile thread: http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=280920

http://www.pierluigisurace.it/imagerie/images/aatw/DOT_France_Fountainbleau_Castle.jpg

In the gardens of Chateau Chantouillet, an orchestra gently plays away as the guests of the Chantouillet Summit assembled on the greens. Over the past few days as they had arrived and been shown to their accomodations, they had all had a chance individually to explore the grounds of the picturesque chateau, and the surrounding countryside. Far away from the major cities of Pantocratoria, the towns and villages which peppered the rolling green hills and fields around Chantouillet were quiet, traditional affairs. Most of the local people still only spoke Greek, despite French being the official language and the language spoken in the cities, courts and government offices. It was a disarmingly charming region to visit, and the magnificent Chateau Chantouillet was its crowning glory.

After some time allowing the guests to mingle, the orchestra stops its gentle background music and plays a rousing entrance minuet to announce the arrival of Emperor Andreus. A tall, middle-aged man with greying hair and beard, his face looks stern and reserved, but not cruel. He wears an exquisitely tailored suit, over which is hung a purple sash from which a tasteful variety of medals hang. Standing to his right is an imposing hulk of a man, his middle-aged face scarred but kindly looking, with a sword in its scabbard hanging from his waist, symbolic of his responsibility to protect the Emperor - this was Sir Constantine the Hardy, the Emperor's closest friend and the man in charge of security. He stepped over to two of the guards once the Emperor reached the podium which had been set up for him in the garden's green.

"Your Majesties, Your Highnesses, Your Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, Honoured Guests, welcome to Chantoillet!" said the Emperor in a booming, welcoming voice. "We trust that you have all been made to feel like welcomed friends, since it is in the interest of establishing friendly relations between our peoples that we have invited you all here."

The Emperor launches into a lengthy speech about friendship between nations and the various avenues which nations use to build relationships between each other in the modern world, making mention of the United Nations. He finishes after about ten minutes, with the following:

"And yet despite all the diplomatic avenues through which modern nation states may form friendships with one another, none have the immediacy of that most natural form of contact which we all as human beings have taken for granted since time immemorial - that is to say, a face to face conversation! And thus here we stand, with the authority to act as the personal embodiment of our nations, not merely representatives, with the opportunity to enjoy for the first time for our state some of the pleasures men and women take for granted - a handshake, an embrace, a warm word, a sip of champagne with friends, and a conversation. Here at Chantouillet we have the chance to meet face to face, talk through our differences, find those common things which unite us, and to leave not just as allies, or trading partners, but as friends." the Emperor concluded, with a rare smile.

The orchestra resumes playing some light background music. The delegates are invited to mingle and talk amongst each other, to get to know one another, before an agenda for the summit will be decided over luncheon.

OOC: I should clarify that everyone is still more than welcome to join at this point!

As the guests mingle and discuss recent issues a blair of trumpets silences the mumour of conversation. A impeccably attired female herald steps through the entrance and in a clear, loud but beautiful voice announces "Lords, Ladies & Gentlemen! His Majesty James of the Noble House of Beauchampe, King of Regia Anglorum and its dependent states!".

A smartly dressed tall man with cropped brown hair in a military uniform of black trimmed with gold and scarlet enters the room. Flanked on either side by numerous imposing guards dressed in similar if less embelished uniforms, all have unceromonial style swords hanging at there belts and the golden pheonix emblem on there tunics.

"Greatings fellow Monarchs and ahem other leaders, I hope I'm not too late?"

Khaled's mind was desensitized relatively early this particular afternoon by nicotine and alcohol, as normally he would postpone the drinking until the evening, but the jetlag had rumpled his awareness of time and combined with his hangover it felt like a drum beating constantly inside his head. Ambling over to the Emperor, or at least trying to do so, he brought the glass to his bloodless lips once more. All he could see now was a daze of colours, filled with the movement of dark shades, all around him, but he managed to pick out the silhoutte of the Emperor, retaining his distinctive physical features.

" *hic* Have I already had the *hic* pleasure meeting you, my friend?
*hic* "

He uttered, his eyes focused on the load of medals decorating Andreus' suit.

"Oh, and, what did *hic* you *hic* do to get all those fancy medals?"

An attractive woman approaches Emperor Andreus and his champion. The woman, while clearly not an ingénue in her 20's or 30's, carries herself with grace and charm. Her red gown is fashionable without being gaudy and her long blonde hair is done up in a very flattering style.

She steps around the drunk in front of the emperor and curtseys. "Your Majesty," Princess Christianna says with a smile, "it is a pleasure to be back in your nation. My brother, David, sends his warmest regards, as do your daughter and son-in-law. I was just visiting them in Langeais when your invitation arrived; they are both doing well."

Princess Christianna stands and tilts her head slightly as she regards Sir Constantine. "Sir Constantine, it is also very nice to see you again. Perhaps when your duties permit, we might have another dance. Hmmm?"

Khaled's mind was desensitized relatively early this particular afternoon by nicotine and alcohol, as normally he would postpone the drinking until the evening, but the jetlag had rumpled his awareness of time and combined with his hangover it felt like a drum beating constantly inside his head. Ambling over to the Emperor, or at least trying to do so, he brought the glass to his bloodless lips once more. All he could see now was a daze of colours, filled with the movement of dark shades, all around him, but he managed to pick out the silhoutte of the Emperor, retaining his distinctive physical features.

" *hic* Have I already had the *hic* pleasure meeting you, my friend?
*hic* "

He uttered, his eyes focused on the load of medals decorating Andreus' suit.

"Oh, and, what did *hic* you *hic* do to get all those fancy medals?"
The Emperor's already stiff posture stiffened even more as he shook Khaled's hand.

"I was born." he answers under his breath. "The pleasure is mine, sir. I see you're enjoying some of the local brandy. Perhaps I could interest you in some Pantocratorian champagne? There's a nice little supply of some from Isakiosopolis - they make wonderful champagne there."

The Emperor guides Khaled over to one of the tables at which refreshments are being served, and gestures for the gentleman behind the table to pour Khaled a glass of champagne, before leaving him there waiting for his wine.

An attractive woman approaches Emperor Andreus and his champion. The woman, while clearly not an ingénue in her 20's or 30's, carries herself with grace and charm. Her red gown is fashionable without being gaudy and her long blonde hair is done up in a very flattering style.

She steps around the drunk in front of the emperor and curtseys. "Your Majesty," Princess Christianna says with a smile, "it is a pleasure to be back in your nation. My brother, David, sends his warmest regards, as do your daughter and son-in-law. I was just visiting them in Langeais when your invitation arrived; they are both doing well."

Princess Christianna stands and tilts her head slightly as she regards Sir Constantine. "Sir Constantine, it is also very nice to see you again. Perhaps when your duties permit, we might have another dance. Hmmm?"

As the Emperor returns to Constantine's side, Princess Christianna finds her way over to the pair. The Emperor greets her with another rare broad smile.

"Your Highness, what a pleasure to see you again." he says, warmly. "When the present unpleasantness in Upper Virginia is resolved I thoroughly intend to visit them myself, and to take up His Majesty's generous invitation to visit Excalbia. My son, the Despot of New Constantinople, looks forward to your long-awaited visit at the conclusion of the summit."

"Your Highness," said Sir Constantine, bowing respectfully. He adds, sounding very pleased with himself. "I look forward to it! I had no idea I made such an impression."

As the guests mingle and discuss recent issues a blair of trumpets silences the mumour of conversation. A impeccably attired female herald steps through the entrance and in a clear, loud but beautiful voice announces "Lords, Ladies & Gentlemen! His Majesty James of the Noble House of Beauchampe, King of Regia Anglorum and its dependent states!".

A smartly dressed tall man with cropped brown hair in a military uniform of black trimmed with gold and scarlet enters the room. Flanked on either side by numerous imposing guards dressed in similar if less embelished uniforms, all have unceromonial style swords hanging at there belts and the golden pheonix emblem on there tunics.

"Greatings fellow Monarchs and ahem other leaders, I hope I'm not too late?"

The Emperor arched an eyebrow as he observed King James' entrance.

"Shall we?" the Emperor asked, before leading Princess Christianna and Sir Constantine the Hardy across to meet the newcomer.

"Your Majesty," he said. "Welcome to Chantouillet. Allow me to introduce Her Imperial Highness Princess Christianna, representing her brother the Emperor of Excalbia, and my chief of domestics, Sir Constantine. I'm delighted that you could come, but I would prefer it if your guards would wait away from the gardens. Your Majesty needn't worry, the Varangian Guard won't let anything happen."

Steele was content to simply get drunk.

Later, if he had the energy, he may even find himself a companion for the evening, but for now, scotch would be his friend. He watched with bored interest the comings and goings of the diplomats and party-goers who streamed into the grand hall, resplendant in their silks, furs and formal wear. Sitting on an ornate bench, surrounded by gardens and the clear sky, Darius Steele contemplated nothing, and appreciated the silence that stretched out before him. He smoked, he drank, he lost himself in the solitude.

He forgot about death for a brief moment.

“Sir! I will repeat again! Your military escorts must back down!”
“Nonsense!” Shouted back a burley voice over the crackling communication line. “These are the elite guards of President Queuenzo! They are coming with us!”
The communication officer grunted angrily and walked away from his head set. Just then, his commanding officer stormed into the control room.
“This better be important, what’s going on?”
“Sir, we got a situation. Radar’s picked up two assault helios, three troop transporter helios, and a civilian chopper all on a steady approach for the palace grounds.”
“Whose in the damn things?”
“It looks like the President of Lumpana. But he never told us he was coming.”
“Lumpana? I’ve never even hear of the place.”
“Neither have I, but he’s got gods knows how many soldiers with him. He won’t back down, but if we let him get near the palace those guys could tear it to shreds!”
Somewhere off in the distance they heard a voice call out.
“S.A.M.’s are armed and hot, targets are locked.”
“No!” Cried back the leader of the control tower, “If we blow the President of some country out of the sky its gona raining shit on us.”
“But the Emperors in danger!”
The voices were silent for a few seconds. Humming and beeping sounds from the computers continued to flood the air.
“Alright,” The leader finished, “Well keep the missiles on stand by, let’s see what these guys do.”
Five minutes later the six helicopters landed on the palace’s grounds. At least forty armed soldiers jumped out of the transport crafts, the group quickly secured the area as if some unknown attacker was about to strike. Then out of the civilian helicopter two men exited. One was the president. He was tall well rounded; his brown greasy hair cut short and his tan skin almost entirely covered by his military uniform. Smiling to himself, the president-for-life began to walk up the palace steps. As he did his troops followed him in formation. Then the other man, a trench coat wearing muscular man singled for the Pantocratoria servants to start bringing the President many bags up the steps.

As the Emperor returns to Constantine's side, Princess Christianna finds her way over to the pair. The Emperor greets her with another rare broad smile.

"Your Highness, what a pleasure to see you again." he says, warmly. "When the present unpleasantness in Upper Virginia is resolved I thoroughly intend to visit them myself, and to take up His Majesty's generous invitation to visit Excalbia. My son, the Despot of New Constantinople, looks forward to your long-awaited visit at the conclusion of the summit."

"Your Highness," said Sir Constantine, bowing respectfully. He adds, sounding very pleased with himself. "I look forward to it! I had no idea I made such an impression."

"Oh, yes, Your Majesty, I would very much like to visit New Constantinople. I hear that your son has made great progress in absorbing a rather large influx of refugees. I am most impressed with what I have I heard about his city."

Princess Christianna smiles at Andreus for a moment, then turns and gives Sir Constantine a rather coy smile. "And you, Sir Constantine, never doubt the impression that you make on a lady."

The Emperor arched an eyebrow as he observed King James' entrance.

"Shall we?" the Emperor asked, before leading Princess Christianna and Sir Constantine the Hardy across to meet the newcomer.

"Your Majesty," he said. "Welcome to Chantouillet. Allow me to introduce Her Imperial Highness Princess Christianna, representing her brother the Emperor of Excalbia, and my chief of domestics, Sir Constantine. I'm delighted that you could come, but I would prefer it if your guards would wait away from the gardens. Your Majesty needn't worry, the Varangian Guard won't let anything happen."

Princess Christinna curtseys and smiles at King James. "A pleasure to meet you, your Majesty."

His anger was monumental.

His drink was finished, and that pissed Darius Steele off to no end. Now he would have to put his huge body in movement, and make his way through all the party-goers to find the bar. He took a last puff of his hand-rolled cigar, crushing it out underneath his foot. He walked steadily towards the ornate doors, not really caring who he bumped on the way: Steele was a BIG man.

He entered the grand hall, looking for liquid succor. Noticing a bar setup nearby, Steele made a beeline for it. After ordering two triple-scotch's, he sat back and looked at the crowd. He noticed that many had gathered around the Emperor, sucking up to him like sycophants. Darius decided to wait until the rush to touch Royalty had faded. He spied a pretty serving-girl, and smiled at her, mischief in his eyes. She returned his gaze, a hint of promise and potential in hers.

The booze was free, the women were easy and Steele was at peace.

"By Allah, I think the Prez got a little overexited about this local ale,"

A young man, his curly brown hair combed back entirely, said, peculiar Jewish facial features, as a sharp hawk-like nose, gracing his face. His blue suitcoat was worn-out, yet his shirt, in contrast with his black necktie, was immaculate, new obviously. A pair of jeans completed his dress. He was standing adjacent to Khaled, who lie underneath the refreshment table, humming ancient Al-Sabirian drinking songs.

"Get him to his room and let him sleep, I'll go over to the Emperor and see if Mr. Brahim didn't entirely wreck any international relations,"

He ordered the two tall, massive bodyguards at his side.

He paced over to the Emperor, and waited for a pause in the conversation. Then he spoke softly:

"I apologize for my President's shameful behaviour, sir. I hope he hasn't deterred you from engaging in a conversation with another Al-Sabirian. Oh, and had I already introduced myself? I'm Farid Jamzad, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and it is a true pleasure meeting you, sir,"

Steele watched with amusement as the diplomat Khaled slid under the table, obviously enjoying himself. The big security man thought that finally, this party might be fun after all. He walked over to the drunken man, and crouched down beside him. In his hand he held a small vial, which he snapped and waved under the man's nose. This immediately added clarity to the diplomats eyes. Steele smiled down at the suddenly less-drunk man.

"Now...you ready to REALLY start drinking, friend?"

“Sir! I will repeat again! Your military escorts must back down!”
“Nonsense!” Shouted back a burley voice over the crackling communication line. “These are the elite guards of President Queuenzo! They are coming with us!”
The communication officer grunted angrily and walked away from his head set. Just then, his commanding officer stormed into the control room.
“This better be important, what’s going on?”
“Sir, we got a situation. Radar’s picked up two assault helios, three troop transporter helios, and a civilian chopper all on a steady approach for the palace grounds.”
“Whose in the damn things?”
“It looks like the President of Lumpana. But he never told us he was coming.”
“Lumpana? I’ve never even hear of the place.”
“Neither have I, but he’s got gods knows how many soldiers with him. He won’t back down, but if we let him get near the palace those guys could tear it to shreds!”
Somewhere off in the distance they heard a voice call out.
“S.A.M.’s are armed and hot, targets are locked.”
“No!” Cried back the leader of the control tower, “If we blow the President of some country out of the sky its gona raining shit on us.”
“But the Emperors in danger!”
The voices were silent for a few seconds. Humming and beeping sounds from the computers continued to flood the air.
“Alright,” The leader finished, “Well keep the missiles on stand by, let’s see what these guys do.”
Five minutes later the six helicopters landed on the palace’s grounds. At least forty armed soldiers jumped out of the transport crafts, the group quickly secured the area as if some unknown attacker was about to strike. Then out of the civilian helicopter two men exited. One was the president. He was tall well rounded; his brown greasy hair cut short and his tan skin almost entirely covered by his military uniform. Smiling to himself, the president-for-life began to walk up the palace steps. As he did his troops followed him in formation. Then the other man, a trench coat wearing muscular man singled for the Pantocratoria servants to start bringing the President many bags up the steps.


The thunderous sound of dozens of sets of heavy boots on stone foreshadowed the arrival of the Varangian Guard only a few seconds before they poured out onto the courtyard. They had been alarmed by the radar towers that another one of the guests had deemed fit to bring a long a cadre of soldiers, and although they hadn't had the time to get out of their dress uniforms and they looked like Roman legionnaires of a by-gone era, they still carried armed and loaded M-16s.

"STAND DOWN!" various Varangians started shouting in their Swedish and Norweigan accents, pointing their rifles at the President's guards. An officer in a ridiculous centurion's helmet and heavy bearskin stepped forward.

"What is going on here then?" he demanded in a barely noticeable Norweigan accent. "There are to be no weapons other than those of a ceremonial nature at the palace! There are to be no troops other than a modest bodyguard! All weapons and all security personnel are to be checked and confirmed through the palace's own security! This is a diplomatic summit, not a bloody war!"

Steele watched with amusement as the diplomat Khaled slid under the table, obviously enjoying himself. The big security man thought that finally, this party might be fun after all. He walked over to the drunken man, and crouched down beside him. In his hand he held a small vial, which he snapped and waved under the man's nose. This immediately added clarity to the diplomats eyes. Steele smiled down at the suddenly less-drunk man.

"Now...you ready to REALLY start drinking, friend?"

No, it's ok, *hic* just go, go, you know, and shoot some people, heck, I dunno,"

Khaled mumbled to the guards, who immediately appeared out of sight, but still kept a watchful eye on him.

" *hic* now you, schlummie, who the hell are you?"

"Oh, yes, Your Majesty, I would very much like to visit New Constantinople. I hear that your son has made great progress in absorbing a rather large influx of refugees. I am most impressed with what I have I heard about his city."

Princess Christianna smiles at Andreus for a moment, then turns and gives Sir Constantine a rather coy smile. "And you, Sir Constantine, never doubt the impression that you make on a lady."

Sir Constantine grins broadly and opens his mouth to talk, when the noise of his radio can be heard from his belt.

"I beg Your Highness' pardon, Majesties," he says first to Christianna and then to Andreus and James, excusing himself.

"What? How many armed soldiers? What kind of lunatics are these people anyway!" Constantine exclaims in shock into his radio as he hears of the rampant stupidity occuring at the front of the palace. He turns back to the others.

"Begging Your Majesty's pardon, there is a situation involving yet another guest who has insisted on bringing along a rather large and well-armed escort in front of the palace's courtyard. I would like to go and handle it personally." Sir Constantine asks.

"Yes of course, Sir Constantine." the Emperor says, dismayed. He turns back to the other representatives. "I would never show up in another nation with the Varangian Guard armed to the teeth without prior consultation with that nation's own security forces, but alas, some people seem to think such behaviour is acceptable."

"By Allah, I think the Prez got a little overexited about this local ale,"

A young man, his curly brown hair combed back entirely, said, peculiar Jewish facial features, as a sharp hawk-like nose, gracing his face. His blue suitcoat was worn-out, yet his shirt, in contrast with his black necktie, was immaculate, new obviously. A pair of jeans completed his dress. He was standing adjacent to Khaled, who lie underneath the refreshment table, humming ancient Al-Sabirian drinking songs.

"Get him to his room and let him sleep, I'll go over to the Emperor and see if Mr. Brahim didn't entirely wreck any international relations,"

He ordered the two tall, massive bodyguards at his side.

He paced over to the Emperor, and waited for a pause in the conversation. Then he spoke softly:

"I apologize for my President's shameful behaviour, sir. I hope he hasn't deterred you from engaging in a conversation with another Al-Sabirian. Oh, and had I already introduced myself? I'm Farid Jamzad, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and it is a true pleasure meeting you, sir,"

"The pleasure is mine, Monsieur Jamzad." said the Emperor, trying not to look at Jamzad's jeans. "As for His Excellency's behaviour, although I am not often so... inebriated so early in the morning, I am not unused to dealing with courtiers who have had a little too much to drink. So long as the President is sober for the summit discussions, all will be well!"

He turned back to Princess Christianna and King James.

"Your Highness, Your Majesty, allow me to present Monsieur Farid Jamzad, Al-Sabirian Minister of Foreign Affairs." he said, introducing them. "Monsieur Jamzad, Her Imperial Highness Princess Christianna of Excalbia, and His Majesty King James of Regia Anglorum."

No, it's ok, *hic* just go, go, you know, and shoot some people, heck, I dunno,"

Khaled mumbled to the guards, who immediately appeared out of sight, but still kept a watchful eye on him.

" *hic* now you, schlummie, who the hell are you?"

He liked this drunk already.

Noticing the encroaching bodyguards, Steele extended his hands to show they were empty. He reached one down, offering it to Khaled.

"Allow me to introduce myself: Darius Steele, at your service. I noticed that you seem to be the life of the party, so I thought I'd come over and say hello." the diplomat stared blearily at Steele's hand.

OOC: So everybody knows, those choppers filled with troops were at the front of the palace, we're in the gardens at the back, there's probably a good kilometre or more between them, not to mention a huge palace and any number of other things. There certainly isn't a line of sight between the reception in the gardens and the front of the palace!

It's hasn't been that long since I visited this place, President and First Consul Benedict Michael Sukothai thought as he mingled among the crowd.

As his country was preparing for (if not already engaged in) war with Eurusea and the Reich, Sukothai did not wear a suit or tuxedo; rather, he wore a Syskeyian army dress uniform (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v123/Syskeyia/sys_army_ike.jpg). No pin of rank adorned his epaulets; however, a gold chain sash ran down from his right shoulder to his left side and back again that indicated his status as a Consul of the Republic [OOC: There's two Consuls]. Benedict had served in his country's military, but only managed to achieve the rank of Lieutenant. Consequently, he had only two medal ribbons: one for his service in the anti-Objectivist campagin of the late '80s, and the other, a Knight's Cross, for valor.

The First Consul had been informed on the chataeu and its environs before coming to the event. He knew that the locals spoke Greek, and thought he might try his high school knowledge of the Hellenic tongue (the Greek he learned there was a mixture of the koine and classical tongues) on the populace, should he get the chance. Probably not.

Oh well, he thought with a shrug as he inspected the officer's sword in its scabbard at his side.

Sukothai contingued to mingle, making his way towards the Emperor.

He liked this drunk already.

Noticing the encroaching bodyguards, Steele extended his hands to show they were empty. He reached one down, offering it to Khaled.

"Allow me to introduce myself: Darius Steele, at your service. I noticed that you seem to be the life of the party, so I thought I'd come over and say hello." the diplomat stared blearily at Steele's hand.

Khaled spit on his hand and then shook it.

"*hic* I like you, but what the *hic* did you just gave *hic* me. Do you have more, it would be kinda useful *hic*, imagine, you drink until everything turns into a mishshat, eh, mishmish, eh mish... whatever and then you take it and then you start drinking again, *hic*,"

Khaled groaned, and he continued gulping yet another glass of Pantocratorian champagne.

***

"A true honor to have the opportunity to meet you in person, my princess,"

Farid said, as got down to his knees, brought her hand to his lips and got up again.

"And you, sir, for you, of course, goes the same as for this beautiful lady, a true honor, a true honor to meet you"

He continued, while giving the King a firm but warm handshake.

King Latira, an tall about6'11" red headed man in ceromial plate armor with an steathed broad sword at his side was slowly making his way to greet the host. He had slipped away from his personal bodyguards, both sets who were currently disposting weaponary to be turned over and he took the opertunaty to get away from his well meaning over protective guards. He looked foward to meeting the other guests and his host.

Elsewhere King Latira guards, 12 Hurtori, elite knights who made King Latira's Personal body Guard by ancient tradition and two RSC operatives, people who bore an passing similiarity to ninjas were disposting their weaponary for inspection, approval and possible turning over if they had to. The Hurtori looked every inch knights with some changes, their helms had visers made of an dark one way material that protected their face while at the same time allowing them to see, they also a carried a shield rather similar to that used by riot police and swat teams. They were armed with broadswords, but they also had a throwing hatchet, a mace, a long dagger and two throwing daggers on their sword belts and on underside of their shield were more 4 throwing daggers.

The Nikja on the other hand simply wore black head to toe concealing clothing and from places all over them they pulled out an silenced 9mm TP-7 special, 4 short daggers hidden over their body and , two long daggers, an Teritoran single edged short sword like something an ninja would use called an Kanmi, 6 poisoned throwing daggers, an dart gun with various types of darts, an collapsible crossbow with various types of bolts, something that looked like an large wire cheese cutter, some throwing darts, some gear to allow breaking entering, an pair of times that would allow an person to climb up an wall without rope, an exotic drug and poison kit and some various other items, weapons and items that could be serve as both leading to an rather large pile. Neither of these groups of guards were really pleased that their charge had slipped off.

The Emperor arched an eyebrow as he observed King James' entrance.

"Shall we?" the Emperor asked, before leading Princess Christianna and Sir Constantine the Hardy across to meet the newcomer.

"Your Majesty," he said. "Welcome to Chantouillet. Allow me to introduce Her Imperial Highness Princess Christianna, representing her brother the Emperor of Excalbia, and my chief of domestics, Sir Constantine. I'm delighted that you could come, but I would prefer it if your guards would wait away from the gardens. Your Majesty needn't worry, the Varangian Guard won't let anything happen."



Princess Christinna curtseys and smiles at King James. "A pleasure to meet you, your Majesty."

King James clicked his heals together with a audible report;

"Thank you for your invite kind sir"

"Princess Christinna the pleasure is all mine" before gently kissing her elegant hand.

Steele smiled down at Khaled, yet again.

"That, my friend, is simply an alcohol neutralizer...and I have plenty more. After all, is this not a party?" He raised his hand, calling over a serving girl.

"Bring us some of that famous champagne I've been hearing about, and keep it flowing."

"Your Imperial Majesty, as my forefathers have not been in the habit of attending such events as this, I was unaware of the excepted level of security, My guards are in regular combat attire Im afraid, if this offensive in some way my humble appologise"

"Yes of course, Sir Constantine." the Emperor says, dismayed. He turns back to the other representatives. "I would never show up in another nation with the Varangian Guard armed to the teeth without prior consultation with that nation's own security forces, but alas, some people seem to think such behaviour is acceptable."

Princess Christianna shook her head slightly. "Indeed," she mumbled inaudibly. Then, in a clearer and more pleasant tone, she called out to the departing knight. "Do hurry back, Sir Constantine. I shall save a dance for you." She smiles as she remembers the champion's awkward yet spirited dance moves.

King James clicked his heals together with a audible report;

"Thank you for your invite kind sir"

"Princess Christinna the pleasure is all mine" before gently kissing her elegant hand.

Christianna smiled politely and curtsied as King James kissed her hand. “Your Majesty.” Regaining her hand the princess smoothes her dress as she speaks. “I believe this may be the first official meeting a representative of your kingdom and a representative of the Holy Empire. If you would care to tell us a little bit about Regia Anglorum and about yourself, your Majesty, I would certainly be most interested to listen.”

"A true honor to have the opportunity to meet you in person, my princess,"

Farid said, as got down to his knees, brought her hand to his lips and got up again.

"And you, sir, for you, of course, goes the same as for this beautiful lady, a true honor, a true honor to meet you"

He continued, while giving the King a firm but warm handshake.

“Minister Jamzad, a pleasure. And,” Princess Christianna flashes a warm smile, “thank you for the compliment.” Christianna looks around at the growing circle of people. “While I have head of Al-Sabir, Minister, I confess that I am not very familiar with it or, “ she involuntary glanced towards the inebriated President, “its customs. I would be anxious to hear more about your land…” she looked around again, “when you have the opportunity.”

It's hasn't been that long since I visited this place, President and First Consul Benedict Michael Sukothai thought as he mingled among the crowd.

OOC: Actually, Sukothai hasn't visited Chantouillet. Chantouillet is a country palace which I've not mentioned in any previous threads (like an imperial holiday house). Sukothai, and most other visiting dignitaries, have visited the Imperial Court of Christ Pantocrator in New Rome.

Having said that, I realise you probably meant Pantocratoria as a whole by "this place"... but I thought I should clarify anyway ;)

IC: "Well, I can assure you, my princess, that lying drunk under some table at a diplomatic party isn't a really one of our customs. In fact, the Islam, our main religion forbids the consumption of alcohol, but Mr. Brahim isn't exactly a Muslim, even though his name would suggest it. He also doesn't seem to care what anyone might of him, so we have to follow him around to see if we can minimize the sometimes awkward effects of his behaviour and keep decent relations with other countries,"

OOC: Gawdly, I'll respond to your post later today, I'm just too tired right now to make up anything good.

Grand Chancellor Francis Marlet and his young wife arrived late to the Chantouillet palace. The royal jet was undergoing repairs so another plane had to be chartered from the military at the last moment. The usual military red tape delayed his flight to Pantocratoria.

This was his first trip outside Jeruselem for a official diplomatic function. His daughter had to stay home due to a nasty cold. Francis had never seen a proper Byzantine palace in it's full glory as he spent most of his time in Gothic Crusader-style buildings.

After checking in with security, he and his wife entered the palace proper leading to the Grand Hall. Unlike most dignitories, they were no bodyguards with him as he was largely anonymous in international diplomatic circles unlike the Queen who need 24x7 protection from known enemies.

The Christian and Islamic royalty of the NS world was in the room. The Gold, silver and crystal glitter of the palace contrasted to the Queen's royal palace which was a darkish military fortification in reality. His wife looked nervious, but then she was also borrowing a $100,000 diamond tiara from the Queen.

A Jeruselem Archbishop spotted the couple and welcome him. "Grand Chancellor, you must meet the Emperor! He is surely a man of God." he said.

OOC: Jeruselem, I should clarify that Chantouillet is a palace built in a baroque French style as opposed to a more traditional Byzantine like older palaces are. It is exceedingly opulent and luxurious, pushing the most extreme borders of good taste (like most Pantocratorian architecture). The architecture of the surrounding villages in the region is certainly very Byzantine in origin - this is one of the rural Greek-speaking areas of Pantocratoria rather than the cosmopolitan French-speaking areas.

OOC:Oh dear I noticed an error in my own posts, it should be King Doran, King Latira got killed by Tordoran assassins triggering the second Tordoran/IDI war an bit back.

IC:King Doran finally made his way over to Emperor Andreus and spoke. "Good evening your Imperal Majesty. An rather interesting group of people have gathered here tonight."

OOC: Jeruselem, I should clarify that Chantouillet is a palace built in a baroque French style as opposed to a more traditional Byzantine like older palaces are. It is exceedingly opulent and luxurious, pushing the most extreme borders of good taste (like most Pantocratorian architecture). The architecture of the surrounding villages in the region is certainly very Byzantine in origin - this is one of the rural Greek-speaking areas of Pantocratoria rather than the cosmopolitan French-speaking areas.

OOC

All in good taste! He doesn't really know the differences yet. :p

IC

The Archbishop introduced the Grand Chancellor to some fellow Catholics and some senior Pantocratorian church leaders. He was impressed by the splendour of the palace and wisdom of the Pantocratorian church, surely a match for the Jeruselem's best Catholics. The top quality French wines exceeded even the best of the imported Royal stock and this was no place for the ordinary person.

He finally made his way to Emperor Andreus and his entourage. The Archbishop introduced the Grand Chancellor to the Emperor "I present Grand Chancellor Francis Marlet of Jeruselem and his wife Lady Margaret Francine Francis as representatives of her royal highness Queen Mariah I of Jeruselem, last in line of Lusagan royal blood and Keeper of Holy Land. The Grand Chancellor is little known in diplomatic circles but I'm sure Pantocratoria will know more about him now".

"Your Majesty," said the Emperor, greeting King Doran of Territora. "Welcome to Chantouillet! Permit me to introduce Your Majesty to Her Imperial Highness Princess Christianna of Excalbia, Monsieur Jamzad, the Minister for Foreign Affairs from Al-Sabir, and His Majesty King James of Regia Anglorum."

The Emperor thought he spotted the delegation from Jeruselem being lead from the back courtyard of the palace into the gardens in the distance. They'd be joining the other guests soon, no doubt.

"I have looked forward to meeting Your Majesty for a very long time." says Andreus truthfully to King Doran.

King Doran bowed slightly to Princess Christianna, Monsieur Jamzad, the, and King James and spoke. "Pleased to meet you." He turns back to Emperor Andreus with an slight smile. "That is good to know because I have looked forward to meeting your Imperial Majesty as well. I have heard much about you and Archbishop Vorn had spoken well about you as well."

OOC: I swear Jeruselem's last post wasn't there when I posted my previous post!

IC:

The Emperor greeted the delegation from Jeruselem.

"Monsieur Grand Chancellor, Madame," he said. "It is a pleasure to receive you as Her Majesty's representatives here at Chantouillet. May I present Her Imperial Highness Princess Christianna of Excalbia, Their Majesties King Doran of Teritora and King James of Regia Anglorum, and Monsieur Jamzad of Al-Sabir. Please, enjoy yourselves, and in a few moments we'll set the agenda for the summit's discussions."

The Emperor saw President Khaled stumbling around in the background with a man whose acquaintance he had not yet made. He quickly put his arm lightly on the Grand Chancellor's shoulder and subtly turned him a little so that he didn't spot Khaled's drunken exploits, and started to point out some of the garden's features and some of the summit's other guests, as if that was the reason he had maneouvred the Grand Chancellor thus.

"Well, I can assure you, my princess, that lying drunk under some table at a diplomatic party isn't a really one of our customs. In fact, the Islam, our main religion forbids the consumption of alcohol, but Mr. Brahim isn't exactly a Muslim, even though his name would suggest it. He also doesn't seem to care what anyone might of him, so we have to follow him around to see if we can minimize the sometimes awkward effects of his behaviour and keep decent relations with other countries,"


Princess Christianna diplomatically stifles an urge to smile. Instead, she nods in sympathy. "I, too, have had occasion to follow behind others to clean up from their messes." Though, in honesty - she thought - others have had to follow me around from time-to-time as well. "Certainly, no one will hold you or your nation responsible for your president's behavior. So, is the majority in your country Muslim, Minister Jamzad?"

King Doran bowed slightly to Princess Christianna, Monsieur Jamzad, the, and King James and spoke. "Pleased to meet you." He turns back to Emperor Andreus with an slight smile. "That is good to know because I have looked forward to meeting your Imperial Majesty as well. I have heard much about you and Archbishop Vorn had spoken well about you as well."

Christianna returned the Teritoran King's bow and raised an eyebrow slightly. Before she could think of anything to whisper under her breath, another delegation arrived and was introduced to Andreus. The princess bowed slightly as the Emperor introduced her the Grand Chancellor of Jeruselem and his wife. "Your Excellency, my Lady," Princess Christianna said pleasantly. "It is a pleasure to meet you."

As everyone resumed their introductions, the princess began to wonder if there would be dancing. She looked for Sir Constantine and, not seeing, began to wonder if Muslims or Regia Anglorian kings danced

Steele smiled down at Khaled, yet again.

"That, my friend, is simply an alcohol neutralizer...and I have plenty more. After all, is this not a party?" He raised his hand, calling over a serving girl.

"Bring us some of that famous champagne I've been hearing about, and keep it flowing."

Lighting another cigar, Khaled nodded in agreement with Steele's rhetorical question, and groaned an answer.

"Indeed this is some party, yet most of the guests here seem to prefer sofali..., eh, soda..., socializing over some good ole' drinking fest and I am dissapointed to see that most people are afraid to surrender to their true nature,"

***

Princess Christianna diplomatically stifles an urge to smile. Instead, she nods in sympathy. "I, too, have had occasion to follow behind others to clean up from their messes." Though, in honesty - she thought - others have had to follow me around from time-to-time as well. "Certainly, no one will hold you or your nation responsible for your president's behavior. So, is the majority in your country Muslim, Minister Jamzad?"

"Indeed, my princess, though strong minorities of Christians and Jews prove that our society is multicultural, plus our President is an atheist, so we are not at all some kind of fundamentalist Muslim state, as some people expect us to be,"

Lighting another cigar, Khaled nodded in agreement with Steele's rhetorical question, and groaned an answer.

"Indeed this is some party, yet most of the guests here seem to prefer sofali..., eh, soda..., socializing over some good ole' drinking fest and I am dissapointed to see that most people are afraid to surrender to their true nature,"

"Well then, your Majesty, I guess it falls upon us to be the bringers of good tidings, and to show an example to these people on how to have a good time." Steele paused, sipping his drink. He handed a few capsules to Khaled.

"Use one every 4-5 drinks...you'll still keep the buzz, but all the side-effects will be gone. Now...what say you and I go find us some wenches!?"

"Indeed, my princess, though strong minorities of Christians and Jews prove that our society is multicultural, plus our President is an atheist, so we are not at all some kind of fundamentalist Muslim state, as some people expect us to be,"

"Very interesting, Minister Jamzad." Princess Christianna smiled. "While my country is officially Christian, we do have a significant Jewish minority. However, only a very few Muslims. So, I must confess that I have not studied much about your religion. Perhaps you could tell me more sometime..."

Nemail and Her consort Jorgen decided to wander the gardens until such time that the crush of people around the Emperor was down to her idea of an acceptable level.

King Doran noted. "It is an interesting gathering of people.

OOC: I swear Jeruselem's last post wasn't there when I posted my previous post!

IC:

The Emperor greeted the delegation from Jeruselem.

"Monsieur Grand Chancellor, Madame," he said. "It is a pleasure to receive you as Her Majesty's representatives here at Chantouillet. May I present Her Imperial Highness Princess Christianna of Excalbia, Their Majesties King Doran of Teritora and King James of Regia Anglorum, and Monsieur Jamzad of Al-Sabir. Please, enjoy yourselves, and in a few moments we'll set the agenda for the summit's discussions."

The Emperor saw President Khaled stumbling around in the background with a man whose acquaintance he had not yet made. He quickly put his arm lightly on the Grand Chancellor's shoulder and subtly turned him a little so that he didn't spot Khaled's drunken exploits, and started to point out some of the garden's features and some of the summit's other guests, as if that was the reason he had maneouvred the Grand Chancellor thus.

OOC

:D

IC

The Grand Chancellor introduced himself and his wife to the dignatories around the Emperor before being diverted from the Khaled's antics, expressing how honoured he was to represent her majesty the Queen of Jeruselem and to meet such estimed leaders of other nations. They were unfamiliar but his diplomatic training with Catholic royalty served him well. He talked briefly about his obscure background as not many knew who he was.

While he was busy with the Emperor and co, the Bishop wasn't impressed at Khaled's less than dignified antics and sighed. He noted down who not to invite to the next Jeruselem royal party. He could not be distracted from the real goings-on at these parties anymore.

He excused himself to talk another Catholic clergymen.

Princess Christianna was surprised to see everyone suddenly grow quiet. With a mischevious smile, she decided to take direct action. "Your Majesties," she said bowing towards Emperor Andreus, King James and King Doran, "Minister Jamzad," she said turning back to the Al-Sabiran, "would any of you care to escort a lady to the dance floor?"

"Naturally, m'lady,"

Farid spoke. He took Christina's hand and guided her through crowd to the empty dancefloor.

Princess Christianna smiled and followed Jamzad onto the dance floor. As they began to dance, Christianna was surprised by how well the Minister danced. She decided that she would have to reexamine some of her assumptions about Muslim politicians.

"You dance very well, Minister Jamzad. Are these formal dances common in your country?"

"I wouldn't say common, but most diplomats are expected to be able to perform some sort of formal dance, just to attend parties like these. However, this isn't all I can do, I sometimes try to breakdance, my little son expects such things of me. It isn't all that "cool" telling people at school your daddy is a politician, so I do things like that for him,"

"You sound like a very good father, Minister Jamzad." Christianna smiled as she continued to dance. "Is your family here with you? If they are half as charming as you are, I would be happy to meet them."

"I just divorced, my three sons are all at their mother's place. I've no visiting rights whatsoever, because my wife sued me and convinced the judge I was a workaholic not able to take care of my own children,"

A tear sparkled in his eye. He sighed and looked at Christianna.

"I'd rather not discuss it now, if you understand. Please tell me about yourself,"

OOC: Just a note to apologise for being away for the past week - I've been extremely busy with a number of commitments, I will be back on the other side of the weekend. Please do continue roleplaying without me, and rest assured, Pantocratoria will return!

"I just divorced, my three sons are all at their mother's place. I've no visiting rights whatsoever, because my wife sued me and convinced the judge I was a workaholic not able to take care of my own children,"

A tear sparkled in his eye. He sighed and looked at Christianna.

"I'd rather not discuss it now, if you understand. Please tell me about yourself,"

Christianna nodded sympathetically. "I am sorry to hear that, Minister Jamzad. Of course, I understand." Christianna shook her head and then tried to force a more positive look on her face.

"As for me, well," Christianna chuckled, "I am a princess, after all. My father was David III, Emperor of the Holy Empire of Excalbia," a tiny hint of sarcasm seemed to creep into her voice as she spoke, "I had, I guess, a pretty typical royal upbringing. My parents were kind and my father was doting, but there's just something..." Christianna looked away for a moment, then smiled.

"Any way, my brother - David IV - is now the Emperor. I have never married - too independent for most nobles and too many titles for most other men. I've spent a lot of time doing charity work - recently I've been on the board of the Cardinal Duras Memorial Fund."

Grand Chancellor Francis Marlet asked the Pantocratorian emperor if his family line was related to the medieval Feudal French kings, decendants of Charlemagne, or he was closed related to once mighty Byzantine Emperors who ruled the once great Byzantium empire. He said his ancentry has a little hard to trace unlike the Jeruselem crown with it's origins in the Frankish empire of Charlemagne whose decendants sailed over to Jeruselem with first Crusaders to claim the Holy Lands for Christ.

Grand Chancellor Francis Marlet asked the Pantocratorian emperor if his family line was related to the medieval Feudal French kings, decendants of Charlemagne, or he was closed related to once mighty Byzantine Emperors who ruled the once great Byzantium empire. He said his ancentry has a little hard to trace unlike the Jeruselem crown with it's origins in the Frankish empire of Charlemagne whose decendants sailed over to Jeruselem with first Crusaders to claim the Holy Lands for Christ.

"Then I suppose, monsieur, we have some common ancestors." said the Emperor. Pantocratorian nobles lived to boast about their genealogy, and members of the Imperial Family were no different. "My house is the House of Bourbon-Comnenus-Palealogus. The first Pantocratorian Emperor was the bastard son of Constantine XI Palealogus, who died in the Fall of Constantinople. His line continued through the direct male line until the throne was inherited by a princess, who married a prince descended from the Imperial House of Comnenus, which was the Imperial dynasty of Constantinople until the Fourth Crusade forced the dynasty to relocate to Trebizond. Comneni were amongst the original founders of Pantocratoria."

"The line remained entirely Byzantine in origin until the diadem was again inherited by a woman, who at the start of the 19th century married King Louis XVII of France, Louis XVII of course being the young dauphin of Louis XVI who disappeared without a trace during the Revolution. That wedding was a union of the House of Bourbon with the House of Comnenus-Palealogus." the Emperor explained. "Through Louis XVII I am therefore the heir to the crowns of France and Navarre. The House of Bourbon of course was an offshoot of the House of Valois, being a branch of the House of Capet. Hugues Capet of course being tenuously related to the Carolingian kings who succeeded Charlemagne. I shall have to obtain for you my full family tree at some time if you are really interested. We may find more than a few common ancestors!"