NationStates Jolt Archive

To all nations:

His Imperial Majesty's Government invites interested nations to establish trade and diplomatic relations with the Holy Empire of Excalbia. The Empire is a nation of traditional values with a tolerant attitude towards others. We prefer peaceful relations and trade to war yet are well armed and prepared to defend ourselves. We take pride in our computer sector, which has produced the Decentralized Artificial Intelligence Network - DAIN 5.0 - a nearly sentient artificial intelligence that is available for limited licensing to researchers and legitimate scientific institutions. Our weapons technology is also quite advanced, especially in naval construction.

Interested nations can learn more about the Holy Empire and the Excalbian Isles at this Internet site: http://www.geocities.com/ilclbt/history.htm.

Those nations wishing to establish embassies will be accommodated in the diplomatic quarter on the historic western end of Citadel Island.

For His Imperial Majesty, David IV,
Sarah Harrington,
Deputy Minister of State

To the Holy Empire of Excalbia,
The Empire of the Resurgent Dream is interested in sending a permanent herald to your imperial court. We are a peaceful people, interested in friendly relations with out neighbors.
Lady Ariel ni Liam
For Her Imperial Majesty, High Queen Corrina ni Gwydion

((I am a fantasy nation. If that's a problem, just say.))

Lady Ariel ni Liam
Empire of the Resurgent Dream

My Lady,

The Holy Empire would be pleased to receive the herald of your Queen. Due to urgent matters of State, His Imperial Majesty and the Imperial Chancelor will, regretably, be unable to attend your herald personally. However, I shall be happy to receive the herald on behalf of the Emperor.

We have not had much contact with nations of your background and look forward to exploring the possibilities of mutually beneficial trade.

With warmest regards,
Sarah Harrington
Deputy Minister of State

(OOC: While I tend to stay modern or slightly post-modern, I have no problems with fantasy nations. Could make for some interesting exchanges.)

A wooden sailing ship, flying the falcon of House Gwydion, sails into harbor. It likely attracts a fair amount of attention among the modern boats and ships, its sleek white form like something from a past age. On board, the sailors gape about them in amazement. Metal ships! How do they float?

As the vessel arrives at the dock, the doors to the ambassador's cabin open. While everyone else on the ship is human, the ambassador is not. Her form is slender, idealized, and her face bears the angular beauty of fairy nobility, beauty beyond that known to mortal men and women. She wears a courtly gown of light green whose skirts billow around her legs. That and the innate grace of her stride make it seem as though she's gliding across the deck moreso than walking. A golden necklace, set with emeralds, adorns her long neck. Yet, she could pass for human, possibly, if it were not for the ears. Long ears slowly taper up to a delicate point above her golden hair, just reaching over the top of her head. The woman smiles as she gazes about.

The Nomadic Peoples of Ankhmet offers you diplomatic ties, exchange of ambassadors andmembership of a new organisation.For information telegram me.

Sarah Harrington stood at the side of the dock watching the sailing ship glide into port. Normally, she would have left greeting a newly arriving ambassador to the Chief of Protocol. But, this was different. The Holy Empire had few dealings with non-human nations and this represented a unique opportunity for exchange. And, she had to admit, she was personally curious. Curious enough to fly down to Landing from the capital.

As the elegant sailing vessel settles into a berth at the dock and its crew begins to secure it, the white uniformed naval officer beside Sarah steps forward and salutes the striking golden haired woman, who appears to be the ambassador.

"Welcome to the Holy Empire of Excalbia, your Excellency. I am Rear Admiral Felix Durant, Commander of the Naval District of Landing. My men can help secure your ship."

As the commander spoke, naval personnel - both men and women - in dress whites begin assisting the ship's crew.

"My compliments on your ship; it is a lovely vessel." The admiral turns to the woman to his right. "This is the Deputy Minister of State, Sarah Harrington."

Sarah steps towards the ship and nods towards the ambassador. The Deputy Minister is dressed in a deep blue-skirted suit of a serious, but not too formal cut. "Your excellency, on behalf of His Imperial Majesty, welcome to Excalbia and to the City of Landing. If it pleases you, we have prepared a dinner in your honor at the city hall. If it is convenient, we still stay here this evening and fly to our capital - Citadel Excalbia - tomorrow morning."

The Nomadic Peoples of Ankhmet offers you diplomatic ties, exchange of ambassadors andmembership of a new organisation.For information telegram me.

To The Nomadic Peoples of Ankhmet:

The Holy Empire of Excalbia would be happy to exchange ambassadors and explore trade relations.

Regards,
Sarah Harrington,
Deputy Minister of State

The sidhe lady nods. "It is my pleasure to meet you, Rear Admiral, Deputy Minister. I am the Countess Aidan Mirandel ni Gwydion, ambassador to Exaclabia. I would certainly love to spend a night in your charming city." She smiles graciously.

"Countess," Sarah bows and gestures towards a waiting motorcade, "if you and any of your staff would care to join us, we have a motorcade waiting. Admiral Durant's men will see to your crew."

Aidan examines the motorcade in quiet reflection. She looks down the wheels, up the drivers, before turning back to Sarah. "Madame, there are no horses to pull this conveyances."

"Yes, your Excellency," Sarah smiles politely, "there are no horses. These are automobiles. Most such vehicles are powered by internal combustion engines. These are powered by hydrogen fuel cells. In either case, a fuel is used to generate energy - not unlike burning wood to generate heat in a fireplace - and that energy is used - not unlike the wind or water energy turning the gears in a mill - to turn the wheels."

Sarah walks Lady Aidan towards one of the vehicles, which bears the Excalbian national flag and the flag of the Resurgent Dream on the fenders. "I assure you that the vehicle is safe." She holds the door the ambassador and follows her into the car.

The motorcade pulls away from the harbor with a police escort and in a few short minutes arrives in front of the old city hall. The city hall is built in the English colonial style - mimicking the many buildings designed by the Englishman Sir Christopher Wren in the 17th century - it is three stories, with two wings extending to the rear and a large cupola topped by a weather vane in the center of the roof. The building is now largely a ceremonial building and historic landmark; the real business of the city is conducted in a glass and steel building behind the city hall and connected to it by underground passages.

As the motorcade comes to a stop, policemen in dress uniforms open the doors of the ambassador's car. Sarah motions for the ambassador to step out of the vehicle and, coming around in front of her, leads her up the steps to the building's massive wooden doors.

In front of those doors a number of people are waiting. One of them, a round little man in a neatly tailored suit with a large chain with an old-fashioned key at the end, steps forward.

"Deputy Minister," he says with a slight bow.

Sarah returns the bow. "Lord Mayor." Then, she turns towards Lady Aidan. "Lord Mayor, may I present Her Excellency, Lady Aidan, Countess di Gwydion, ambassador of the Empire of the Resurgent Dream to the Court of His Imperial Majesty."

The mayor bows in a sweeping gesture. "My Lady," Sarah continues, "may I present His Honor, Jacob Smith, Lord Mayor of Landing."

The mayor bows again, in a more restrained fashion. "My Lady, welcome to Landing. We are honored to have you join us for dinner tonight. Please come with me..." The mayor gestures and the doors of the city hall open.

The mayor leads Lady Aidan and the other guests through the entry hall, down a corridor to the right and into the Great Hall. The large room in filled with tables and chairs. Numerous portraits, most of men - but also a few women - in the dress of various periods wearing the same necklace as Mayor Smith.

The mayor walks to the head table and gestures for Lady Aidan to take the place at his right hand. Sarah, without prodding, takes a place at his left. Also at the table are Admiral Durant, two men in clerical collars bearing crosses on the end of the chains around their necks, a policeman in a dress uniform with four stars on his shoulders and several other men and women.

Those seated at the other tables stand. The mayor lifts his glass filled with wine and turns to the portrait behind. The others also stand and lift their glasses. The portrait shows a man in a white naval uniform filled with medals and holding a broad sword. "My lords and ladies, honored guests, I give you His Imperial Majesty. God save him!"

A chorus of voices echoes the words, "God save him."

The mayor turns towards Lady Aidan. "My lords and ladies, honored guests, I give you our guest of honor, Lady Aidan, Countess di Gwydion, of the Empire of the Resurgent Dream."

The room echoes with shouts of "hear, hear."

The mayor gestures for everyone to be seated. Waiters and waitress appear and begin serving the first course. The mayor leans towards the ambassador. "So, my Lady, what do you think of our fair city?"

Ab-shalom and greetings,

It is the desire of the Sultanate of Vastiva to open and maintain strong diplomatic and economic relations with all nations desirous of such. We therefore offer an exchange of embassies and ambassadors, and a beginning of free trade between our nations.

If this meets with your approval, please communicate by any means.

Go in Peace,

Namaste,
Raahmid Javani
Grand Vizier,
Humble Servant of His Magnificence, the Sultan of Vastiva

Aidan nods a little. "I shall have to trust you. There are a few among my people who study such things but I am afraid that I am not among them."

Aidan walks with Sarah, smiling lightly. When the door is held, she glides in, crossing her legs with natural elegance.

Aidan takes in the old city hall, her brown eyes observing the lovely outlines of the building carefully. "That is a rather lovely structure. Some of our larger cities have a similar style."

Aidan rises, slipping out of the car and following Sarah up the stairs. She inclines her head to the Lord Mayor as she is introduced, smiling charmingly. "Your Honor."

Aidan is walked to the table where she sits graciously. She eyes the crosses warily for a moment though she makes no comment. When it comes time to toast the king, she rises with the others. "To the king." she says simply before drinking.

Aidan smiles at her introduction, looking about the room with simple curiosity and a dazzling smile. She turns to the lord mayor as he questions her. "It is most charming, Your Honor."

To Sarah Harrington, Deputy Minister of State:

Your Excellency,

His Serene Highness, the Royal Regent of Aerion has deemed it appropriate to declare me as Ambassador-designate to your most noble nation. I am to report immediately to present my letters of credence to the Emperor. I will be arriving shortly by jet plane, so inform me of any information that may be pertinent before my arrival.

Accept, Excellency, the renewed assurances of my highest consideration,

In the name of His Majesty King Wasterin X,
Ambassador Jadn El

Raahmid Javani Namaste,
Grand Vizier,
Sultanate of Vastiva

Your Excellency,

His Imperial Majesty’s Government would be pleased to receive an ambassador from the Sultanate of Vastiva and will appoint, as soon as practical, an ambassador to the Sultan’s court. We, too, are interested in developing free trade. Please advise us if your embassy shall require any special accommodations and whether there are any particular areas of trade that your nation would like to explore.

For His Imperial Majesty, David IV,

Sarah Harrington,
Deputy Minister of State

To: Sarah Harrington, Deputy Minister of State, Excalbia

On behalf of the President and National Free People's Congress of Fortestan,
I would like to request a diplomatic exhange and possible trade relationship
between our two nations. We would like to open an embassy in your
Excalbia, and we would like for you to open an embassy in Fortestan. We
hope you agree that two nations can become peaceful allies.

Pres. Dr. Roland B. Durandana of Wassa
Secretary of State Tizona Kusanagi
United Socialist States of Fortestan

His Excellency,
Jadn El,
Ambassador of Aerion

Your Excellency,

His Imperial Majesty is pleased to receive you as the ambassador of His Majesty, King Wasterin X, Royal Regent of Aerion.

Please forward your flight plan to my office for the appropriate clearances. An official delegation will meet you upon arrival.

His Imperial Majesty hopes to receive your credentials as early as possible. Unfortunately, we are currently in the midst of a situation with a belligerent neighbour. While this situation will not interfere with your journey, it is occupying much of His Imperial Majesty’s attention.

However, if His imperial Majesty is unable to immediately receive you upon arrival, our Minister of State, Mr. Albert Cummings, stands ready to receive you.

Please be assured of our highest consideration.

For His Imperial Majesty, David IV,

Sarah Harrington,
Deputy Minister of State

His Excellency,
Dr. Roland B. Durandana of Wassa,
President
and
His Excellency,
Tizona Kusanagi.
Secretary of State,
United Socialist States of Fortestan

Your Excellencies,

His Imperial Majesty’s Government would be pleased to receive an ambassador from your nation and will appoint, as soon as practical, an ambassador to Fortestan. We are also interested in developing positive trade relations. Please advise us if your embassy shall require any special accommodations and whether there are any particular areas of trade that your nation would like to explore.

For His Imperial Majesty, David IV,

Sarah Harrington,
Deputy Minister of State

“Thank you, My Lady,” the Lord Mayor said with his head slightly bowed. “You will, no doubt, see many glorious sights in our capital – it is an older city than Landing and the seat of imperial power. However,” the mayor’s face seemed to glow with pride, “we are quite fond of our city; it is the largest city in the Empire and the engine of our economic might. Also,” the mayor continues after sampling the soup, “we are not without our own history and charm. It is my hope that you will return for a longer visit at some point.”

The mayor takes several spoonfuls of the creamy soup and turns towards Sarah. “Ay, don’t tell me they make a finer soup in the Citadel, Deputy Minister!”

“The food is excellent, my Lord,” Sarah says diplomatically.

“Oh,” the mayor says turning back to Aidan, “I have been a selfish host – keeping you all to myself! Allow me to introduce our companions at the table. To your right are His Eminence, Miguel Cardinal Rizo, Catholic Archbishop of Landing and His Grace, the Reverend Donald Slesers, the Chief Bishop of the Church of Excalbia in Landing. Beside them is our Chief of Police, Sir James Wayne. To your left, my Lady, are Rear Admiral Durant, whom you’ve met, Sir George Madison, Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Senator Lady Heather Simms, one of Landing’s members of the Imperial Senate.” The mayor leans close and whispers to Aidan, “Our senior senator is a minister and was unavoidably detained in the capital.”

The other guests around the table nod and murmur their greetings. Chief Bishop Slesers leans towards the ambassador. “You have heard much about our city, my Lady,” the bishop says lightly as chuckles are heard around the table, “perhaps you would be kind enough to tell us a little about your land…”

Aidan looks a little curious for a moment. "That is rather impressive. We have no comparable city in the Empire."

Aidan inclines her head to each of the dignitaties in turn. "It is an honor to meet you all, I am quite sure." A charming smile touches her beyond perfect face.

Aidan nods. "I would be happy to oblige, though I am unsure where to begin. Our land is a place of wonder and magic. The economy remains primarily agricultural, despite thriving artisan communities in the towns. Matters at court are in something of an uproar due to recent dispute about our marriage laws. We worship and reverence the goddess Danu. Most of our population is human yet they tend not to be greatly involved in public affairs."

Chief Bishop Slesers and Cardinal Rizo exchange a quick glance Aidan's mention of the goddess. Then, the bishop smiles and says, "Your nation sounds very interesting. I think all of us would be in interested in hearing about the magical nature of your people and your land and I know that Cardinal Rizo and I would be curious to hear more of your religion and to know whether there are minority religions in your land..."

Aidan smiles pleasantly. "There are a number of minority religions actually. Some of our people prefer the worship of the Orisha Olorun while others revere Odin, first among the Aesir. Balor of the Burning Eye is also worshipped as a god in Wintermore but the practices of his church are...frowned upon elsewhere in the Empire. There is a small sect devoted to the August Personage of Jade and an even smaller one devoted to an essentially animistic belief system. I believe that that would be all, though I am not an expert in the matter."

"That's... interesting," Cardinal Rizo says cautiously. "Let me ask..."

Before the cardinal can finish, RADM Durant speaks up from the other side of the table. "Pardon me, your Eminence," Durant says with a nod before turning towards Aidan, "I have a question, my Lady. I hope you don't think it impolitic, but may I ask how your nation defends itself? This is a dangerous world. We, ourselves, may soon be in a conflict with our neighbour. So, how have you managed your self-defense without modern weapons? Does this... magic of yours come into play?"

Aidan arches a brow faintly. "I do think it impolitic, my good sir. The nature of our defenses is not something we reveal during first dipomatic contacts, especially as part of casual dinner conversation."

Sarah shot RADM Durant a stern look, then put on her best smile and turned towards Aidan. "I am sorry, my Lady, I fear that Admiral Durant's curiousity overcame his judgement. However, please do tell us more about your people and your nation. I must say that your land sounds delightful and intriguing..."

Aidan smiles lightly at Sarah. "Why, of course. The Empire is divided into six kingdoms: Farinor, Bilbtoria, Shieldcrest, Fireheart, Holista, and Wintermore. Each is really a very different land, though the major fairy races can all be found in each, as can human beings. There are nine major races of fairy and 91 minor races living in the Empire. Together we constitute one fifth of the population. Sidhe, my people, make up one in every hundred."

Sarah nodded with a look of genuine curiousity. "I must say, my Lady, that your nation sounds like one of the most... unique with whom we have ever established formal diplomatic relations. After we travel to the capital, would you be willing to speak with some of our people at the Ministry of Science and Technology? They would be fascinated to hear about the genetic diversity of your land.

"Oh, and speaking of your journey to capital, we will be leaving tomorrow morning. I had planned for us to fly on a government plane, but it occurs to me that you may be more comfortable going by ship. Which would you prefer, my Lady?"

As Aidan prepares to answer, a waiter in a white coat steps up to the Lord Mayor, who nods at the signal. "Ah, my Lady, Deputy Minister, forgive my interruption, but we are ready for the main course." The mayor turns to the ambassador. "My Lady, not knowing whether you might follow any particular diet, we have prepared three choices for the main course - a beef dish, fish and a vegeterian dish. What is your preference?"

Aidan arches a brow at Sarah. "Pardon me, madame, but I am afraid I am at something of a loss to answer, as I am not sure what genetic means."

Aidan smiles a little, looking to the waiter. "The beef will be fine, thank you."

After turning back to her company, she ponders her response. "I believe travelling by one of these...aeroplanes...might prove fascinating."

As a waiter places a plate in front of Aidan, Sarah nods and says politely, "I am sorry, my Lady, by 'genetic diversity' I was simply referring the large number of different races, both human and fairy, that inhabit your six kingdoms." As a plate is placed in front of her, Sarah smiles. "Bon appetite, my Lady."

Then, after sampling her fish, Sarah turns back to Aidan. "As it is your wish, we will fly tomorrow morning. Please feel free to bring as many of your people as you wish; I do not know if the others aboard your ship were all crew or whether they include any assistants or clerks. I believe the Lord Mayor has arranged accommodations.."

"Yes," the mayor speaks after swallowing a large mouthful of steak. "We have a guest house here on the grounds of the city administrative complex. You will stay here tonight and we will bring you to the airport in the morning..."


(OOC... In my next post, if it is OK with you, I'll jump ahead to the airport...)

My nation of Pluto3 would like to be a part of you fine great empires. we are small but would do anything to be known. Our land is open to all, even a trade or two. We are not lap dogs but we do like to Please others. The prince of Pluto3's royal family would like to explore anyone else's land.

The Republic of Syskeyia would be most happy to establish diplomatic and economic relations with the Holy Empire of Excalbia.

God bless,

Ignatius Hsueh
Syskeyian Secretary of State

As an fellow ally of Pantocratia, we are keen to establish a strong diplomatic relationship with a fellow Christian nation.

God bless

Foreign Minister and Regent of Jeruselem

Aidan smiles, daintily eating with perfect manners. "I require no such aids, madame."

((Fine by me))

To the Government of Pluto3:

We welcome diplomatic and trade relations with all interested nations. If you have any particular areas of trade interest, please let us know.

Your prince would be welcome to visit the Holy Empire. Please contact us to work out the details.

Regards,

Sarah Harrington,
Deputy Minister of State

The Honorable Ignatius Hsueh
Secretary of State,
Republic of Syskeyia

Your Excellency,

The Holy Empire welcomes diplomatic and trade relations with your Republic. We await the arrival of your ambassador. We are also interested in hearing of any particular areas of trade that you may wish to explore.

For His Imperial Majesty, David IV,

Sarah Harrington,
Deputy Minister of State

His Excellency,
The Foreign Minister and Regent of Jeruselem

Your Excellency,

His Imperial Majesty’s Government also highly values our alliance with Pantocratoria. We also appreciate your past actions in support of our positions and those of your ally.

His Imperial Majesty is very interested in establishing formal diplomatic relations with Jeruselem and is looking forward to receiving your ambassador.

For His Imperial Majesty, David IV,

Sarah Harrington,
Deputy Minister of State

Aidan smiles, daintily eating with perfect manners. "I require no such aids, madame."

((Fine by me))

Sarah nods and turns back to her meal. "Very well, my Lady. I shall meet you at the plane tomorrow morning."

(OOC: Sorry, but I'm running late; I'll pick up at the airport tomorrow.)

((Ok. *Holds back response post then*))

The dinner continued pleasantly enough, with light conversation, some music and wonderful array of deserts. After the meal, the Lord Mayor escorts Lady Aidan through the old city hall, down the rear steps and across a well manicured lawn and need gardens to a small, two-storey cottage. “Here is our guest house, my Lady,” the mayor said with a courtly bow, “everything you will need awaits you inside. Sleep well.”

The following morning, a gentle knock on the door awakens Lady Aidan, after which two waitresses bring in a wide variety of foods and drinks for breakfast. After being given time to eat and dress, another knock on the door announces the arrival of the Lord Mayor. He bows and escorts the ambassador to a motorcade waiting in front of the old city hall.

Once in the vehicle, the motorcade roars with, police sirens wailing, towards the airport. With the sirens on, the ride to the airport is a little more than 20 minutes. The line of vehicles sails passed a security checkpoint and directly onto the tarmac.

Aidan’s car comes to a stop in front of the stairs leading up to the doorway of Boeing 737 passenger jet. The plane is blue on the top, with metallic gold on the bottom. Across the side, in large gold letters, are the words: Excalbian Imperial Air Force. On the tail of the plane is the imperial crest.

As blue uniformed soldier opens the door for Aidan and salutes, Sarah steps out of a small cluster of people and approaches Aidan.

“Good morning, your Excellency,” she says with a slight bow. “Please,” she gestures towards the stairs leading up to the plane, “if you will come with me, we are ready to depart.”

Sarah leads Aidan up the steps and into the plane. Two cabin stewards in blue uniforms bow as Sarah escorts the ambassador on to the plane. A number of seats in a rear cabin are occupied by various minor officials, including a few military officers. Sarah, however, points to a comfortable leather seat next to the window. “Please take a seat, my Lady.”

Sarah takes another the seat directly facing Aidan and secures her seatbelt. “Will this be your first flight, my Lady?”

To Whom it May Concern,
The Federation of Populated Systems is always ready to negotiate alliances with other nations. We are willing to discuss trade and alliances with your empire.

Haplo N. R. Page, President of the Federation of Populated Systems

The Honorable
Haplo N. R. Page,
President,
Federation of Populated Systems

Your Excellency,

The Holy Empire welcomes diplomatic and trade relations with your nation. Please let us know the name of your ambassador and any particular areas of trade that may interest you.

Regards,

Sarah Harrington,
Deputy Minister of State

Aidan gives the Lord Mayor a small curtsey as he bidsa her good night. "I intend to, Lord Mayor. You as well." She smiles charmingly and disappears into the guest house.

Aidan accepts the food, still in her nightgown, which, despite its informality, is still a lovely, elegant gossamer affair. She eats daintily and then dresses in a sleeveless, high-necked silver dress, putting her hair in an elegant updo. She bows her head to the mayor and walks with him to the motorcade.

As she leaves the motorcade, Aidan inclines her head to Sarah. "Good morning, Madame Harrington." Gliding up the ramp with Sarah, she briefly takes in the surroundings before sitting and crossing her legs elegantly. "Not quite, madame. I have once been on dragon back and do have some experience with airships and ornithopters. However, I have never before been in such a device as this. It is crafted, yet it is neither an ornithopter nor an ether baloon."

Sarah smiled. “In that case, my Lady, I believe this will be something of a treat. We will be flying higher, I would suppose, than either a balloon or an ornithopter. And quite a bit faster.”

One of the stewards, a young enlisted man in a blue uniform, walked over to Aidan and Sarah with a small try laden with glasses. “My Lady, Madame Deputy Minister, would either of you care for a drink before we take off?” Then, glancing at the ambassador, he adds, “I am sorry, my Lady, but could you please fasten your seat belt?”

Sarah looks over and offers to assist Aidan.

Once everything is squared away and the drinks have been passed out, the plane begins to move. It taxis away from the boarding area and towards the runway. After a brief wait, the plane begins to accelerate down the runway, gaining speed until it begins to pull of the ground. Soon, the plane is climbing and begins to bank gently to right, passing over the city of Landing as it turns 180 degrees and begins flying north towards the capital. Sarah looks out the window and points out some of the landmarks of Landing - the docks, the old city hall and a few others - to Aidan as they pass over them.

Once the plane is level and on course, the door of the cockpit opens and a distinguished looking woman in a blue uniform similar to the steward’s walks over to the two VIP passengers.

The woman stops across the aisle from Aidan and Sarah. “Welcome aboard, your Excellencies. I am Major Patricia Meza, the pilot of today’s flight.”

Aidan nods slightly. "Interesting."

Aidan nods faintly to the steward. "A mimosa please." She stares at him blankly when he asks her to put on a seat belt. "Pardon?" She lets Sarah walk her through it.

Aidan looks out the window, noting everything Sarah points out. She smiles at the pilot when she emerges. "Good morn, Major."

MAJ Meza smiles. "I hope you enjoy your flight. If you have any questions or need anything, just let me know. Our flight should only take about an hour and fourty minutes."

Sarah looks over at Aidan. "Yes, and once we arrive, I will take you to meet our Minister of State. And then, if you would like, we can have a tour of the city."

Aidan nods. "Of course, Major."

The sidhe smiles lightly to Sarah. "I look forward to it."

The rest of the flight continued uneventfully and, after a light snack, the plane began its final approach to the capital’s international airport. After the plane has landed and taxied to a stop, Sarah and Aidan deplane and are met on the tarmac by a handful of blue uniformed military officer. Aidan is briefly welcomed to Citadel Excalbia and then shown to a waiting limousine.

Sarah joins Aidan in the limousine, which flies the Excalbian and Resurgent Dream flags, and with a small police escort they begin to make their way to the heart of the capital.

En route, Sarah points out that the airport is on what is known as the Right Bank of Excalbia River. They pass through an unassuming residential area that gives way to a surprisingly clean and tidy industrial district.

“There is little real industry in the capital,” Sarah points out, “most of the industries that are here are pretty high tech – computer chips, advanced synthetic materials, software and hardware; that kind of thing. If you have any interest in exploring these, I’m sure we can arrange some meetings and tours.”

As they come within view of the river, they pass into a commercial district with a number of large skyscrapers. “Of course,” Sarah notes, “we don’t have as many skyscrapers as Landing, but there are a few. Here and across the river on the Left Bank, but none on Citadel Island itself.”

Passing quickly through the canyons formed by the towering buildings, Aidan and Sarah start across a bridge towards an island dominated by high ridge to the north. Sarah points to a walled castle on the top of the ridge. “That is the Castle Excalbia – also known as the Citadel, which gave the island and the capital their name. The newer castle next to it is Sweyn Castle, the current residence of the Emperor.”

As the car crosses the island, Aidan passes a number of grand cathedral and both modern and art nouveau buildings, all of which Sarah dutifully describes.

Finally, the car passes a modern glass and steel building nestled beside what appears to be a row of Victorian buildings. “This is the Ministry of State,” Sarah says as the car pulls up to the one of the older buildings, “most offices are in the new building, but the Minster has his offices in the original building.”

A white uniformed guard opens the door to the limousine and salutes as first Sarah and then Aidan exit. A woman in a neat brown suit waiting at the door approaches Sarah.

“Madame Deputy Minister,” then turning to Aidan, “your Excellency, the Minister is expecting you.”

“Thank you, Agnes,” Sarah says politely. “My Lady,” Sarah says as she gestures for Aidan to enter the building.

Sarah escorts Aidan across a beautiful tile floor to an ornate carved wooden door that opens to reveal a modern elevator. Sarah and Aidan, joined by Agnes Timms, ascend to the eighth floor. As the doors open, they walk directly into the Minister’s suite of offices. A secretary rises, nods to Sarah and opens a heavy, carved wooden door. “Please go right in,” the man says.

A rotund gentleman in an impeccably tailored suit walks towards Aidan, stopping a few feet away and bowing slightly. “Lady Aidan,” he says, “welcome to Citadel Excalbia. I am Albert Cummings, Minister of State. Please, have a seat.” Cummings gestures to a leather sofa and a number of leather armchairs next to a roaring fire set in an intricate ceramic fireplace. “May I offer you a drink, my Lady?” Cummings asks as Aidan takes her seat.

After everyone is seated and comfortable, Cummings looks at Aidan, momentarily taken by her exotic appearance, then he picks up a small note card.

“I regret that the Emperor himself could not receive you, my Lady, but he hopes to do so later. In the meanwhile, I would like to raise a number of issues with you.

“First, I was just reading this morning that some kind of plague has stricken the Kingdom of Shieldcrest in your Empire. In the past, our researchers have assisted the Pantocratorian Empire in curing a plague crafted by so-called dark elves. If you would like our assistance, we could have a team ready to leave today.

“And, speaking of such assistance, I would like to offer you a mutual exchange of knowledge. Your scholars would be welcomed to travel to Excalbia to study our technology and science and, in return, we would be interested in dispatching some of our researchers to your lands to study your – very different – forms of knowledge.

“We would also be interested in exploring trade relations. Are there any items you would be interested in acquiring from us or offering to us in trade?

“And, finally, some of our religious leaders have asked me to inquire about the word we received that King Gregory ap Liam of Holista, in your lands, is willing to open his kingdom to foreign missionaries. The Church of Excalbia, a Christian church, would be interested in sending missionaries, but the church is interested to know whether they would be restricted to Holista or would they be free to travel throughout your Empire.”

Aidan shakes her head a little at Sarah's comment about synthetic materials. "I'm sure I wouldn't understand a word of it."

Aidan smiles. "But what few skyscraped you have are rather breathtaking, great towers of glass glimmering in the sunlight's kiss..."

Aidan examines the castles. "They are finely crafted and they remind me of home. Many of our dwellings are built in a similar fashion."

Aidan nods as they pull up. "I can respect that, the Minister is attached to his original workplace."

Aidan inclines her head to Agnes, entering. She extends her hand to Albert, palm down. After greetings are taken care of she sits, crossing her legs elegantly. "I would like a mimosa."

Aidan shakes her head a little about the epidemic. "We have the epidemic itself well in hand. However, it has served as an excuse for an attack on our sovereignty. We do not wish substantive aid, as we are so knewly aquainted, but we would appreciate a public statement by your government."

"If you are referring to magic, it is largely a part of our nature. Our magics cannot be taught to humans. However, there is other knowledge to be gained. We have many ancient tomes, including some of relevance to the Christians. Also, our rather unique peoples are an interesting subject."

"We can offer crops, lumber, dragon hide, magical artifacts, ornithopters, ether balloons, exotic flora and fauna...I am not sure what we want in return. I am not familiar enough with the products of technology."

"Currently, foreign missions would only be allowed in Holista. Any citizen of the Empire converted there, however, would have the right to open their own mission anywhere in the Empire, if they so chose. Full access to missionaries is not out of the question. However, we would likely need something in return. I would have to seek instructions from my home government before proceeding."

Minister Cummings and Sarah listen carefully as Aidan speaks. “I certainly understand your desire to be cautious with new acquaintances, Lady Aidan,” Cummings nods gravely, “however, I am sure that you will quickly see that our intentions are pure and that we have maintained a sterling, if limited, reputation in world affairs. Nevertheless, we will certainly do as you wish and release a public statement condemning the blockade as a violation of your national sovereignty. Once the blockade is lifted, we will certainly offer any medical assistance that you require. And, should the circumstances change, we do stand ready to offer… any additional assistance you may require as it relates to the blockade.

“As for the exchange of knowledge, I am sure that our scholars would relish the opportunity to study your ancient tomes and, as you observed, your unique peoples. And, once it is possible, I am sure that a number of missionaries will travel to Holista. The church, I am sure, will be happy to work within any rules your nations impose.”

Aidan smiles. "We would be most appreciative of such a statement."

The Countess ponders a moment. "I doubt there would be any great restriction, so long as King Gregory was content. He did not invite missionaries on a whim. I would guess he has a personal interest in your faith, though not one he feels comfortable voicing. I believe that if you sent a priest to the Gregory's royal court as a missionary, your other missionaries would have free reign in Holista, within reason."

Minister Cummings smiles slightly. "Thank you for the recommendation, my Lady. I will certainly pass it to our presiding bishop." Then, turning to Sarah, he says softly. "Ms. Harrington, would you please see that an appropriate statement is released in the Emperor's name?"

Sarah nods and excuses herself.

Cummings looks back to Aidan. "Well, my Lady, a final matter with regard to the blockade. I am fairly confident in the ability of our transports to enter your lands without any - undo - delay from the blockade. May we commence with establishing our embassy and beginning the exchange of scholars, or would your government prefer that we wait until the blockade is formally lifted? The same question would apply to any medicines or physicians that you may wish to accept from us..."

Aidan ponders a moment. "I suppose I see little harm. I don't want diplomats and scholars at risk though. It might be better to wait. I don't see a blockade lasting that long in waters between the Empire and Akaton. That involves separating the High Queen from her daughter and, well, I know that I find a mother's wrath even more fearsome than a queen's."

(OOC: Sorry, I've been a bit busy with other things...)

Cummings nodded as Aidan spoke. "I am quite sure that you are correct. However, we do happen to have the Reliant carrier battlegroup and the Southport strike group in the area. The Reliant in particular carriers a large medical staff and large supply of medical goods; it would be no problem at all to send them to Shieldcrest. While the medical staff would, of course, be unarmed, I am sure that our naval forces could see to it that they passed through the blockade without... interference. We could also send our ambassador and his staff to the Reliant with could then deliver him at your captial. Again, despite the blockade. May we send the order?"

Aidan simply nods. "You may."

((Sorry for ubershortness. In a rush. Better post later))