NationStates Jolt Archive

"The Iluvauromeni Commonality of Everlasting Light announces and humbly invites representatives from any state whom/which wish(es) to make their presence felt at a Summit in the capital of the Commonality, Nenya, to discuss improvement/creation of diplomatic ties and several pressing matters of international concern.

"Sincerely,"

~ Empress the Supreme Commander Rialla ux-Rihad II

[OOC: This is open to all, and will involve no violence of any sort whatsoever at all.

NOTE:- When responding (assuming anyone does), kindly note that lethal mechanical arms are illegal in the Commonality.]

Our Friends in the The Iluvauromeni Commonality of Everlasting Light,

We in the Free Republic would be very pleased if you would accept our Assistant to the Minister of Foreign Affairs to your international summit. We have often heard of your nation and it's actions but we have yet to see your nation and it's peoples first hand. If it pleases you please send us instructions on when and where our Ambassador should arrive.

Theleb Kanaan, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ilek-Vaad

Your Imperial Majesty,
We would be most honored to send a representative to such a summit for the creation of diplomatic ties and to discuss the pressing issues of the world. We would inquire if there are any protocols other than those standard under the law of nations.
Corrina ni Gwydion, High Queen of the Empire of the Resurgent Dream

Your Imperial Majesty,
It would greatly please us to send an ambassador to your esteemed nation. If it should please you to accept, we would wish to send an ambassador separately of the Imperial Delegation.
Eleanor ni Ailil, Queen of Wintermore

Although a large nation we have had very little contact with other nations. Be this the small amount of time myself as great leader of my great large nation has or be this my peoples need to keep to ones self I do not know.
However not wanting to be how us Wightians say "The loser in the corner of the playground" of the world we would consider sending one or two of my senior minsters to your summit.
Sadly due to other commitments and my god you don't want to know what my deputy does to the national goat everytime I go away for a few days I could not attend myself.
However I am some very senior minsters and policy makers who would consider going. However sadly in this Wingosaurasphant eat Wingosaurasphant world we live you don't get a jambo for nothing. So I ask. What can your great nation offer mine?

The following was written elloquently in Sindarin,


Empress Rialla ux-Rihad II,

Our nations have often had our differences, but in the interest of diplomacy I would be pleased to attend your honorable event.

May I bring a guest?

~Liz Wang, Interm Ambassador, Dominion of Wazzu

TAG

OOC: Is this modern tech?

((It's open.))

*Delivered after a minor detour to merrily chase chickens, this letter is brought in by a dyed-grey jackal with a sapphire blue collar and silver insignia.*


Not-Entirely-Dear-As-I-Have-Yet-To-Make-Previous-Contact, But-Certainly-More-Dear-Than-Those-Nations-Which-Cause-Us-Major-Annoyance, And-Therefore-Fairly-Respected Empress the Supreme Commander Rialla ux-Rihad II,

Providing that this Summit does not clash with The Day Of The Most Honorable Inspection Of The Royal Jackal Population (there are so many, you see, and I must do it personally), I will be delighted to attend.

Tea parties with oneself, no matter how inventive, humorous, and well thought-out, do tend to lack actual interaction, and so the chance to become at least partly familiar with nations belonging to beings that are not imaginary is rather appealing.

Hoping to exchange biscotti recipes with some of the more enlightened attendees of this Summit,
--Miss Chaly Merridew

themnax of teabiscuit, member and symbol of the council of hindmosts of carlemnaria, is honored and pleased on behalf of the diverse peoples, species and cultures, to whome the forrests, gardens and orchards of carlemnaria are their home, to accept the most fuzzy and shimmering welcome (and good excuse for me to get out of the house) The Iluvauromeni Commonality has extended to our exoticly humble and often creatively inscrutable selves.

thus read the inscription on the smoothe metalic looking card of unanalizable substance profered at the door by a large green catlike person wearing bib overalls and a large peace sign pendent, chewing on a blade of grass and riding on a rather small (and silent) robotic garden tractor.

when asked as to the wearabouts of this scolarly representative this worthy produced from among his garnment's many folds and pockets, after several moments of attempting to remember in wich one he had placed it, a holographic identity document showing himself as being the so named.

=^^=
.../\...

Vrak Diplomatic Corps HQ

This day, like many others for Ipshi Hagwonak, promised to be a busy one. In fact, the diplomatic corps had seen an increased in activity as of late. His baby brother Ujuy just got back from Ilek-Vaad and continously was raving about the clean ocean water and the women. He managed to bring back some fine wines and they enjoyed a crate while discussing the finer points of the ship purchase. As well, his old friend Jur Ratyuig was whooping it up at some masquerade. Nothing as of late came in from Mercury though.

The External Affairs Minister himself was in discussion with the Imitorians, while perhaps the biggest event was sending Orith along with other FKC delegates to meet Menelmacar. He grinned. I wonder how Sirithil will react once she finds out that the Klatch also has gravships. They probably thought that we all just had spears and lived in mud huts.

He turned and looked outside to the sea. He could glimpse some of the dockyards and could hear the braying horns from the container ships. His mind began to wander when he was interrupted…

-Sorry sir. An invitational letter from the ICEL.
-Ah, who are they again?
-They were once called EOTED.
-Right. Okay. Thank you.

The aide left and Ipshi read the letter carefully. His brow furrowed and mentally began to tick off who was available. Ah, right. He punched a number in the intercom and was greeted by a sleepy voice.

-Waaaah? Hrang-il Jual here.
-Hrang-il? This is Ipshi. Do you remember the EOTED?
-Ah, yes. Calling themselves the ICEL now.
-Right. And they are holding some kind of conference. I want you to go.

The voice replied, but with a note of frustration.

-The last time I went to that SCOJAN conference, it was inconclusive. I am reluctant to go there again for another waste of time.
-Noted. Pack your bags. You leave tomorrow. Come by in two hours and we can talk strategy.
-Yes, sir.

====

To: The ICEL - Empress the Supreme Commander Rialla ux-Rihad II
From: Vrak Diplomatic Corps
Subject: Conference

We will be sending Ambassador Hrang-Il Jual to the conference. If you remember, Ambassador Jual also attended the SCOJAN conference.

[OOC: To save time...]

IC:

"The Commonality gratefully honours the responses received, and will provide transport to all those official delegates who wish to attend."

~ Empress the Supreme Commander Rialla ux-Rihad II

[OOC: All. Mmkay. Feel free to just turn up in the conference room; it's in Nenya, and the building is called the Imperial Palace. The corridors are long, winding, and confusing, and have very few doors; the Palace itself, viewed from the outside, was utterly immense, being at least a mile in full length west-to-east and half as long again north-to-south. It's oddly low to the ground, though, being a mere two stories tall. It's utterly surrounded by woodland, as is the entire 'city', although the delegates came in on Fancy's (non-conventional aircraft with no wings that do not directly interact with the atmosphere), which had their few visible windows polarized for the entire journey.

The corridors are rather dull, and the entrance used was an utterly bare room with no tapestries and bare stone walls. The corridors the delegates see are likewise apparently entirely constructed from hewn stone. The corridor system is somewhat reminiscent of a maze; although as every corridor looks so nearly identical, it is clearly intended to make an assault on the Palace nigh on impossible.

The room in which the conference is held is likewise bland. The walls are not the same grey stone, however; instead, they are plaster walls, perhaps annoyingly painted white. A simple but elegant oak table dominates. No flags are on display. Four doors lead out of the room; if anyone moves through those doors, I'll describe the room then and there.

For now, there is merely a 'greeter' in the room; an ICEL Ambassador who wears no name tag (pointless, considering the difference in letter-scripts between different cultures present) and wears the new, entirely white uniform of the Commonality Diplomatic Corps. It's pretty spiffy, actually. :p

This brevity is in the hope that by cutting down the number of posts required to get started, we'll actually get finished this time. :P

Lastly! Don't worry if you turn up later on; anyone who takes interest can join in, so long as they post their arrival and keep to the information above.

Oh, lastly lastly! Nobody has any weapons. At all. Of any kind. Nor anything that could possibly be used as a weapon, within reason. Nor is anyone carrying a bomb. Nuclear or otherwise. Nor viral agents, chemical weapons, or exploding furry chickens. At all. ;)

Vrak - I actually would love to finish the SCOJAN summit at some time, especially as the forum difficulties were the primary reason I couldn't keep up with it.]

Lady Eluvial ni Fiona is the first to arrive. An elegant sidhe maiden from Corrina's court, she carries herself with a perfect grace. Her red hair falls freely over her back as her crimson gown with silver lining shifts elegantly with her motions. The gown billows out at her waist, revealing nothing of her legs. Long sleeves end in lacey cuffs from which gloved hands protrude. The collar reaches the bottom of her chin, though the front of her neck is left half-exposed. Beneath the edge of her skirts, one can see only the very slightly longer silver underskirts.

Lady Miranda ni Leanhaun, representing Queen Eleanor, arrives next. The woman is...well, hot, even for a sidhe. Her body is a perfect hourglass accentuated y a tight green dress, slit up to the left thigh. It is a sleeveless affair supported by the ruby studded, neck strap, cut very low in front. The back is also quite low. Miranda peers about the room with dazzling blue eyes, her raven hair done in an ornate updo.

Of course, in a stunning example of the balance the universe required to function, the next guest was not perfect by any means. For that matter, she was not exceptional, or even above average.

A quick way to describe her would be to say that she was fairly short--barely topping five feet--and of a nice shape mostly hidden by the loose and somewhat wrinkled clothing. She also wore a pair of blue plastic eyeglasses, and had bitten nails, though neither really related to the other much. About the only thing at all remarkable was the teal stripe dyed into otherwise mousy brown hair.

So it was that Chaly Merridew, the Loving Guide to the Most Serene Republic of Merridonia, managed to have broken away from a game of Easter egg tossing long enough to attend an actual political affair of sorts. (The narrator notes that she knows it wasn't Easter at the time, but honestly, would you rather throw plain white eggs or ones of all colors and patterns?)

Eluvial nods politely to Chaly with a slight smile. Miranda grins dazzlingly, looking the woman up and down with an almost predatorial yet bizarrely winning gaze. Eluvial and Miranda move to opposite sides of the room, pointedly ignoring one anothers existence, as they look towards the greeter.

The greeter is a smiling little man, about five feet four inches tall, with shockingly white hair. He's not of the aged persuasion, however; he looks as if he's in his early forties. He has blue-grey eyes, which rules out him being a Nenyan, at least; his height would probably rule out him being an Elf, also. And when he speaks, its pretty obvious he's neither; his voice is actually mildly annoying, almost monotone and rather dull. His smiling features are thus in utter contrast to his voice, which has a weak Nenyan accent, should anyone present recognize it as such. If not, it's merely a lilting, gentle undercurrent to his words; every few sentences his voice rises and falls in pitch, so he's probably suppressing the accent to effect this rather dull voice of his.

Quite why is anybodies guess.

"Hello, hello," he greets most informally as the first group of delegates arrives, "I trust you all enjoyed your trip to Nenya? I'm sure it was brief, yes? Very little to see, I would imagine, they usually polarize the viewports on the Fancy's anyway. But I'm sure we can arrange a tour of Nenya for our guests, later on! Perhaps even the Empress herself will guide the tour. She has been known to go out into the city on occasion, even without guards, apparently. I don't know that I believe the latter - my, have you seen the Imperial Palace Guards at all? - But no, you wouldn't have. They do keep a low profile."

Well, he has alot to say.

[OOC: Since the journey was undertaken in an ICEL Fancy - a hypersonic aircraft that uses a form of EM propulsion called 'magnetic impetus', for those who didn't know - nobody's journey would have taken more than between an hour and a half and two hours maximum; to travel twelve thousand miles at the highest accelerative curve in one of these planes would take a little under two hours, to give you an idea. If it helps any for figuring your time roughly, ICEL is in the continent of Lodoss on the South Atlantic Ocean.]

Eluvial nods politely. "That sounds appropriate."

Miranda gives a winning smile. "It was just gorgeous, truly. I find your conveyances quite extraordinary though...might we have know to whom we have the immense pleasure of speaking?"

The Ambassador bows slightly, smiling. "I am Ambassador Telar. I do have a somewhat more lengthy name, but really, one cannot be standing around proclaiming names all day. - The Empress and her Consort will be along shortly, Ladies."

Miranda pauses at this, looking off for a moment. Eluvial cannot help but smirk ever so faintly at her counterpart before looking to the little man. "We await Her Imperial Majesty's pleasure, of course."

Miranda narrows her eyes faintly but nods. "Yes, yes, of course."

After a moment, both women turn their gaze to Chaly, the one person in the room yet to speak.

Ambassador Hrang-Il Jual, a large walrus, took in the bland surroundings and smiled politely at the short man. In truth, he was actually happy that the room appeared to be more functional, unlike the last visit. Perhaps more can get done if people would stop looking at the artwork. He noted no buffet table though and idly wondered what there was to eat. His multicolored vest and hat looked strangely out of place in sombre surroundings.

The two human unarmed (but quite capable) King’s Own stood with the Ambassador, their faces a placid mask yet their eyes scrutinized the area. They were dressed in tuxedos, which was a unusual departure from their regular uniforms in these circumstances.

Hrang-Il coughs and then says to the greeter.

“Thank you for providing transportation to your lands. I look forward to meeting with the Empress and her Consort.”

He then turned to the other foreign dignitaries.

“Greetings.”

OOC: Ma-tek, I know. I view that thread as inconclusive. That is, if it was finished then it is doubtful we would have come a second time to your nation.

Sir Alec Connover , Assistant to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, arrived at the Imperial Palace, with him was Ambassador Slaine Ilek, being of the House of Ilek he was one of the few Vaadians that knew any gnomeish tongues.

Sir Alec a sandy blonde haired young man of Coventry,stands at about 6'2" and is of course in excellent shape, being an active Velite Guard.

Ambassador Ilek contrasts his superior by being bit shorter, broad and with greying hair, more of a celtic look to him, dark eyes and dark hair.

Sir Alec and Ambassador Ilek both politely greet the 'Greeter'. Upon entering the conference room Sir Alec and the Ambassador in turn introduced themselves to the other arrivals.

"Ladies Eluvial, Miranda, I'm Sir Alec , this is Ambassador Ilek, pleased to meet you. Miss Merridew, how are you?"

He especially makes a point to bow to the walrus "Ambassador Hrang-Il Jual is it? Very pleased to meet you, I'm sir Alec Connover and this is Ambassador Ilek."

Vaadians aren't known for greeting foreigners (much less talking to them.) but Alec, as usual, breaks that mold nicely and manages to be very polite and not a little bit charming. Ambassador Ilek on the other hands gives the other arrivals a polite smile and then hangs bck to watch.

The ladies nod politely and incline their heads. "Good evening, Ambassador." Eluvial says politely.

Miranda grins impishly. "So nice to meet you."

With a great and powerful deafening thunderclap, the embodiment of pure evil had manifested itself inside of the chamber. Dark Lord Hephistamus, exiled baatezu noble and ruler of the Dark Dominion of Dhurthrak, had arrived. Shrouded in layers of black robes and spiked armor, the old devil was quite a remarkable sight to behold if one could get past the constant aura of fear that he projected around him.

One of his neighboring leaders had persuaded him to attend the conference for some ridiculous reason. Nevertheless, he was convinced he could get some sort of agreement from this conference that could quite potentially benefit him and his twisted country's personal ideals the most.

It was going to be a most interesting meeting, this conference.

Miranda greets the dark lord with the same sensual, dazzling smiles she seems to give everyone, eyes lingering on him a good deal longer than on the others, however. This might prove interesting after all.

The greeters eyes suddenly came on a small package...a 6 year old child rushed up to him and spoke.

"Hello," she said in heavily accented Nenyan , "I'm Katlyn, who are you?" Her mother wasn't far behind, and soon caught up to the child and huged her from behind (or was she gently holding her back?).

The girl's mother looked to be in her 50's, with white hair and wrinkles not quite hiding what had once been a beautiful face. She was too experianced to be truely embarrased by her daughter's antics, but seemed to make as if she were. Instead of appologizing, she simply smiled at the ambassador, giving him a chance to respond to the child.

He especially makes a point to bow to the walrus "Ambassador Hrang-Il Jual is it? Very pleased to meet you, I'm sir Alec Connover and this is Ambassador Ilek."

The walrus bowed.

"Yes, you are correct Sir Alec. IAmbassador, a pleasure. It is good to meet some friends here. I wonder what exactly our hosts wish to discuss?"

The King's Own kept their poker faces intact - although the sudden appearance of someone popping out of thin air was unnerving.

Sir Alec smiled at Hrang-Il.

"Deuce if I know, we have some intelligence on our hosts, but scant little to point to motive for any sort of international meeting or conference."

Sir Alec paused to look for the liquor cabinet.

"Honestly , I'd thought they would at least offer us a drink by now?"

All of the sudden the thunderclap distracted them.

Sir Alec and Ambassador were obviously disturbed by the dark lord's sudden appearence, but they quickly regained their composure. Sir Alec, like most men of Coventry, were immune to fear and once the suprise was over he offered his hand to the Dark Lord Hephistamus, looking for a non-spiked appendage that he may shake, Dark Lord or not Sir Alec would be polite to anyone within reason. Who knows, maybe Dark Lords have feelings too?

"That was quite an entrance sir, I'm Sir Alec Connover and this is Ambassador Ilek. How do you do?"

He never got the handshake (probably a good-thing) as he turned when the child ran in, Sir Alec chuckled at the little girl, Sir Alec was always appreciative of the antics of children.

Two of the doors into the room open whilst the greeter moves from delegation to delegation, greeting them in his rather longwinded style.

One of the opening doors reveals two persons, both dressed entirely in white; both wear military dress uniforms. The male wears enough ribbons and medals to float a battleship; the woman wears far fewer, but her rank pin looks loftier, somehow, suggesting greater rank. They wear identical platinum circlets, both with a single emerald set into the front.

They are both Nenyan, as they have amber eyes, and the tall, elegant characteristics one would expect of a species descended from the Calaquendi. Both have jet-black hair; the man wears his hair just past his shoulders, the woman wears hers well past the hip. Her hair lies so perfectly that even the most studious of personal groomers might well wonder how she keeps it thus; it has a soft, vibrant quality to it. The lady does not wear makeup, and nor does the man, for that matter; both are somewhat pale in the face, although they look nothing like each other.

The lady is just shy of one point nine meters, the man just over two meters tall; both have noble and strong features, and both, by Human standards (although not to all eyes, of course) are stunningly beautiful. By Nenyan standards, the male is merely handsome; the woman, however, is gorgeous by any standards.

They are leaning against one another quite informally, smiling openly; but as they enter the room, they part just a little. The woman clears her throat.

"Greetings, one and all," she offers, avoiding use of gender-specific terms for now, "and welcome to Nenya. I'm quite certain that the good Ambassador has already welcomed you, but I, Empress Rialla ux-Rihad II and my Consort, the High King Semir-randil I, do formally greet you."

And then both do a very odd thing: they remove the circlets, and set them down upon the floor by the door through which both entered.

Curiously, the third door shuts, but none pass through it that are visible.

The greeters eyes suddenly came on a small package...a 6 year old child rushed up to him and spoke.

"Hello," she said in heavily accented Nenyan , "I'm Katlyn, who are you?" Her mother wasn't far behind, and soon caught up to the child and huged her from behind (or was she gently holding her back?).

The girl's mother looked to be in her 50's, with white hair and wrinkles not quite hiding what had once been a beautiful face. She was too experianced to be truely embarrased by her daughter's antics, but seemed to make as if she were. Instead of appologizing, she simply smiled at the ambassador, giving him a chance to respond to the child.

The greeter smiled openly; a wide, beaming smile, indeed; slowly, he bends to one knee, bowing his head slightly to one side and downwards for a moment. "Well, hello there, Lady Katlyn," he replies in somewhat slow, careful sing-song Nenyan Common, "I am Ambassador Telar. What a pleasure it is to have my ears fall upon such music as to hear a young one speak such excellent Nenyan - you must be a very clever girl indeed, yes?"

The last is said with a smiling glance upwards at the elder woman.

"That was quite an entrance sir, I'm Sir Alec Connover and this is Ambassador Ilek. How do you do?"


"I do well," the Dark Lord's voice rumbled, sounding quite unearthly and inhuman. Whether or not the baatezu was amused by Alec's attempt to be as polite as possible, his red shining eyes underneath his black cowl and helmet showed not a single betraying sign of his emotions. "I am Dark Lord Hephistamus, ruler of Dhurthrak...."

Both sidhe immediately execute flawless curtseys. The careful observer might note that Eluvial lowers her eyes and Miranda does not. Eluvial rises from her curtsey after a perfect three count, looking to the Empress silently, waiting for some sort of que. Miranda rises from her curtsey in the same fluid motion as she makes it. The more revealing, sensual woman speaks where her more formal counterpart does not. "Your Imperial Majesty honors us with your presence. I see the rumors of your beauty do not begin to do you justice."

Eluvial turns her eyes briefly to Miranda. She looks almost as though she intends to roll her eyes, though, of course, she does no such thing. She simply turns back to the Empress, head high, back straight, gaze rigidly fixed away from Miranda. Maybe if she ignores the Leanhaun, she'll go away. At least the Empress knows that they're not there together, despite being of the same race. Eluvial wonders if the other delegates have realized this or not, half-surveying the room out of the corner of her eye.

The Vrakian walrus bows his great head and rumbles,

"Greetings from Vrak. It is good to be hear again."

Sir Alec smiles at Dark Lord Hephistamus

"Well met. I have never heard of Dhurthrak, but it must be a very impressive place."

Sir Alec then pauses as the Empress and her Consort enter. Sir Alec has never in his life seen a gnome of any type and is quite suitably impressed by both. Ambassador Ilek on the other hand, is of the House of Ilek and is quite familiar with the Ylves of the deep woods in the Border Republics, Moriquendi that is.

Both Sir Alec and Ambassador Ilek give polite bows.

[waits for others involved to post ... well, for a little bit]

[[OOC: Sorry, class kicked my butt this week, and it is only going to get harder. But hey, thats what a head start studying this weekend is good for, eh?]]

The greeter smiled openly; a wide, beaming smile, indeed; slowly, he bends to one knee, bowing his head slightly to one side and downwards for a moment. "Well, hello there, Lady Katlyn," he replies in somewhat slow, careful sing-song Nenyan Common, "I am Ambassador Telar. What a pleasure it is to have my ears fall upon such music as to hear a young one speak such excellent Nenyan - you must be a very clever girl indeed, yes?"

The last is said with a smiling glance upwards at the elder woman.

"I'm certainly proud," the older woman spoke up. "but what better way to broaden her education then this?

"I'm Elizabeth Wang." she said, suppressing both the urge to add 'by the way' and to offer a hand. Buisness and politics had many crossovers, but displays of courtesy weren't always among them. So the ambassador bowed instead, at least as far as her small frame could while still holding the tall child. "And I am most happy to be here."

*Ambassador Josef von Korgor of Korgors Legacy arrives somewhat late, finds the quickest way to a champagne flute, sidles off into the corner and waits for the first unsuspecting ambassador to approach with whom he can engage in inane conversation. someone eventually falls for it, coming too close.*

Terrible weather isn't it? *The ambassador coughs nervously* Josef von Korgor, Ambassador of Korgors Legacy. Rather boring place if I'm being quite honest. Rather small. *He's obviously already had a bit too much to drink, obviously from waiting quite a while for someone to come over* Still, lovely view *Extends his hand* and you are?

Miranda smiles lightly as Josef von Korgor finds himself next to her. It's a coy smile with that strange shine to it. Her elegantly pointed ears twitch slightly as she slides a milky, delicate hand into his, palm down. "Lady Miranda ni Leanhaun, my dear ambassador. But I do believe our hosts were about to speak."

Ah *The ambassador downs another free glass of champagne* right then, but you must allow me to make your acquaintance later, dear lady...

Remaining aloof for the most part, Dark Lord Hephistamus was waiting for the actual discussions to commence.

Bumppa bumppa bumppa....

Semir-randil and Rialla merely bestow smiles and quiet words - simply the like of, "Indeed, indeed, an honour, friends," - at the greetings they do receive, and ignore any that they do not; thus they avoid any impoliteness or dishonour.

They drift over - for they do not walk so much as their slender, tall frames glide with soft and precise footfalls - to the table, and lo! servers arrive through a door unseen; they appear to slip directly through the wall, in fact, although the lack of response from Rialla and Semir-randil highlights the apparent normality of such an action.

Rialla takes a seat at the head of the table, and, rather than seeking out conversation, merely waits for it to come to her.

Semir-randil, on the other hand, is a different proposition. There is something in the set of his shoulders, a look in the eye; a method to the manner in which he moves as he leans down to kiss his wife upon the forehead and whisper something unto her ear; a grace of age and the utmost dignity.

He straightens, amber eyes contrastingly aflame with a gentle calmness; his eyes fall upon Dark Lord Hephistamus, ruler of Dhurthrako, and his gait rapidly alters to one of sluggish purpose as he makes his way across the room in that direction in a mere few long strides. Yet his walk was slow; it is his length of leg which carries him quickly, not the effort expended - no doubt this is why Nenyan athletes do not compete against Humans; the height advantage and the clearly densely-packed muscle structure in his thighs and calves would be devastating in a sprint.

The High King's quiet voice speaks in a tone unheard to the others present; they are words meant for Hephistamus alone. The words are said softly, first in High Nenyan:

"Tulinim iryt rostalilyla miryn?"

Then, in English, possibly more understandable, and obviously maintaining the same content rather than 'modernizing' the English words spoken:

"Wherefore have thine kind come hither?"

The tone is soft, rolling and polite; the words themselves not entirely so.

[OOC: For the archaic-style impaired: 'Why have your kind come here?'

For those interested, the word order in the High Nenyan here is actually directly translated as:

"Come-here have thine-kind wherefore?"

Note: High Nenyan is the Iluvauromen Imperial Family's preferred mode of speech - those of House ux-Rihad speak it. It is a Quenya-derived but 'constructed' language; it has also, of course, suffered from drastic lingual shifts over the last ten thousand years or so - although this is mostly related to sentence structure. It is sundered from Tumnorean (in fact the original root-language of what is today commonly called High Nenyan and Nenyan Common), which is less faithful to its Quenya roots and is yet to be heard on-camera. Also, this is the first time High Nenyan has been spoken on-camera.]

[[OOC: Sorry, class kicked my butt this week, and it is only going to get harder. But hey, thats what a head start studying this weekend is good for, eh?]]



"I'm certainly proud," the older woman spoke up. "but what better way to broaden her education then this?

"I'm Elizabeth Wang." she said, suppressing both the urge to add 'by the way' and to offer a hand. Buisness and politics had many crossovers, but displays of courtesy weren't always among them. So the ambassador bowed instead, at least as far as her small frame could while still holding the tall child. "And I am most happy to be here."

The Ambassador smiles, but does not straighten up as of yet. He continues to speak in Nenyan Common: "An honour indeed, Lady Ambassador Elizabeth Wang," he replies, stumbling just a little bit over the - to his mind - somewhat unusual syllable in that sentence: 'Wang'.

Quietly, he continues, "And indeed, the best way to understand languages is to engage in practical use. Why, the study of languages is the centre of our entire education system, you know. We Ambassadors are expected to know at least twenty languages - or we have no chance of passing the Diplomatic Corps entrance examination. This is why the Nenyans tend to take the majority of the posts: they have a great affinity with words. - I do, also, but I tend to speak too much and say too little." An eyebrow arcs slightly with amusement at the last.

The High King's quiet voice speaks in a tone unheard to the others present; they are words meant for Hephistamus alone. The words are said softly, first in High Nenyan:

"Tulinim iryt rostalilyla miryn?"

Then, in English, possibly more understandable, and obviously maintaining the same content rather than 'modernizing' the English words spoken:

"Wherefore have thine kind come hither?"

The tone is soft, rolling and polite; the words themselves not entirely so.

Once again the Dark Lord's voice rumbled throughout the chamber. "I am here because I am here, and my motives are my own. I see a possible benefit to my Dark Dominion of Dhurthrak, and I'm determined to use it." The baatezu's red eyes glowed brighter for a moment as he looked at the elderly King. "Any other questions, aging one?"

The Ambassador smiles, but does not straighten up as of yet. He continues to speak in Nenyan Common: "An honour indeed, Lady Ambassador Elizabeth Wang," he replies, stumbling just a little bit over the - to his mind - somewhat unusual syllable in that sentence: 'Wang'.

Quietly, he continues, "And indeed, the best way to understand languages is to engage in practical use. Why, the study of languages is the centre of our entire education system, you know. We Ambassadors are expected to know at least twenty languages - or we have no chance of passing the Diplomatic Corps entrance examination. This is why the Nenyans tend to take the majority of the posts: they have a great affinity with words. - I do, also, but I tend to speak too much and say too little." An eyebrow arcs slightly with amusement at the last.

Liz looks down at her child after flashing a somewhat apologetic smile to the Ambassador. She had embarrisingly only picked up a few words of that conversation, having learned that from her child.

"He said they teach languages in schools too, and he knows at least twenty!" Katlyn told her mother, "and somthing about being wordy." The 6 year old's face showed a little bit of confusion.

Liz smiled at her daughter, and looked up. "I appologize Ambassador, I know a few foreign languages myself, but Nenyan isn't one of them." She obviously didn't even know such a thing as 'High Nenyan' existed. "But from what she says," still holding her daughter, Liz gave her daughter a squeeze, "It sounds like you are a very good diplomat."

At the last, Liz mentally crossed her fingers as she hoped the play on "wordy" and "diplomat" would go over well. If he truely knew at least 20 languages, her guess was that he would take to the joke. But feelings didn't always match logic.

It was then that the 'Dark Lord's' voice managed to break into the conversation, and Liz looked towards that part of the room with a facial expression of Who the hell does he think he is anyway?

Eluvial nods. "I was sent at your invitation, Your Imperial Majesties."

Miranda smiles warmly. "I was sent to establish peace and friendship with your magnificent people, Your Most Radiant Majesties."

Once again the Dark Lord's voice rumbled throughout the chamber. "I am here because I am here, and my motives are my own. I see a possible benefit to my Dark Dominion of Dhurthrak, and I'm determined to use it." The baatezu's red eyes glowed brighter for a moment as he looked at the elderly King. "Any other questions, aging one?"

Semir-randil allows a radiant smile to spring to his face; he is, naturally, utterly polite and keeps his words soft and quiet. His response is a brief one, in English: "Politeness costs naught but the air with which it speaks, Lord Hephistamus."

* * *

Liz looks down at her child after flashing a somewhat apologetic smile to the Ambassador. She had embarrisingly only picked up a few words of that conversation, having learned that from her child.

"He said they teach languages in schools too, and he knows at least twenty!" Katlyn told her mother, "and somthing about being wordy." The 6 year old's face showed a little bit of confusion.

Liz smiled at her daughter, and looked up. "I appologize Ambassador, I know a few foreign languages myself, but Nenyan isn't one of them." She obviously didn't even know such a thing as 'High Nenyan' existed. "But from what she says," still holding her daughter, Liz gave her daughter a squeeze, "It sounds like you are a very good diplomat."

At the last, Liz mentally crossed her fingers as she hoped the play on "wordy" and "diplomat" would go over well. If he truely knew at least 20 languages, her guess was that he would take to the joke. But feelings didn't always match logic.

It was then that the 'Dark Lord's' voice managed to break into the conversation, and Liz looked towards that part of the room with a facial expression of Who the hell does he think he is anyway?

The Ambassador, this time, replies first to the mother, in the same language she speaks but slowly and carefully, "I do indeed speak many languages, but not all as well as the others, and only several can I think with in my mind. We do not consider someone to be fluent unless they can speak in the mind as well as with the lips. I do not speak the language I use now, however; it is translated via a device implanted in my body. I trust it does not mangle your fair speech, milady."

He smiles to the youngster, returning partially to Nenyan, and says slowly: "The Dth'gari - they are a group of Humans native to lands not far from here - have an ancient saying."

He pauses, grinning a little as he frames the unusual words: "Imirath tuk-tuk gav-rekna jural ilipay ono-nay.; it means, 'A smile is worth a thousand thank-yous.' - 'Wordy' indeed is an apt and accurate translation of our word hanquetil, and although I suppose it more literally would mean 'word-smart', a truer form would be 'knowing words'."

He pointedly ignores the interaction between the High King and Hephistamus, not even bothering to cast his gaze that way.

* * *

Eluvial nods. "I was sent at your invitation, Your Imperial Majesties."

Miranda smiles warmly. "I was sent to establish peace and friendship with your magnificent people, Your Most Radiant Majesties."

As her husband is quite busy, Rialla stands again (noting to herself that she really ought not be doing quite so much in her condition), and glances between the two representatives of the Resurgent Dream. She notes their distance apart, and tries not to frown; how can she talk to both at the same time, when no matter where she stands it would be impolite to speak, for she would need to raise her voice beyond acceptable polite levels?

She doesn't frown, but strives for dignity as she pauses not far from the table and calls to them, "Please, please, come, sit down. The servers will bring what you need." She includes the Ambassador from Vrak in her gaze, inclining her head with a softer smile. "We here prefer informality ahead of the formality. We feel that it can bring greater comfort to more serious discussions if we all just relax a little ahead of the truly important matters - yes? - At any rate, the food is very good, and we have taken pains to import similar or identical fare from your own lands - or those around them, at worst. And I assure you the seating is extremely comfortable."

If one looks exceptionally closely, one might notice that her eyes differ from Semir-randil's in one rather odd way - and from those of the servers who are Nenyan. They are amber, indeed, but they have a curious blue tint to the delicate-looking irises - a blue tint that almost certainly is not present in any of the images previously seen of the Empress.

Eluvial and Miranda both sit on opposite sides. They cross their legs elegantly, turning attention to the Empress. Miranda grins brightly. "As wise as you are charming, Your Imperial Majesty."

Eluvial gives a more restrained nod, smiling politely. "That seems a prudent course of action, Majesty."

Sir Alec nods after the Empress speaks "Thank you, your hospitality is most gracious."

He and Ambassador Ilek move to the table and seem most pleased to be served food and drink, Sir Alec inquiring hopefully about what brands of scotch are readily available. They both occupy themselves with watching and listening, preferring to see what's up with whom before getting terribly involved.

Sir Alec seems quite interested in the discussion between the Dark Lord and Semir-randil , he smiles and speaks up as Semir-randil makes his comment on politeness.

"You know, in the Free Republic we have a saying 'Good manners cost nothing, but poor manners always have a price.' ." He pauses and smiles "I remember when I was a lad, the price of poor manners was a box on the ear."

He chuckles jovially.

The devil's gaze wandered over the both of the men, and without showing an inch emotion, he commented in his rumbling voice. "Wise words, both of you." A small snort of amusement seemed to escape him, and his gaze began to explore the chamber. It'd be practically effortless, he felt, to get what he wanted out of this conference... the ideas ran through his diabolical mind like the rapids before the waterfall.

Eluvial and Miranda both sit on opposite sides. They cross their legs elegantly, turning attention to the Empress. Miranda grins brightly. "As wise as you are charming, Your Imperial Majesty."

Eluvial gives a more restrained nod, smiling politely. "That seems a prudent course of action, Majesty."

The Empress smiles, giving her shoulders the smallest of wriggles, and decided to inform one of the servers that the room was a little too warm for her liking - well, later on, when she had the oppurtunity.

She also decided that these two must know more of Iluvauromeni culture than she had expected; either that or there were astonishing similarities between their own land and this - in some areas.

"Your words are as gracious as your movements," she smiled, "but let us not stand on formality. And We," for once she uses the Royal We, "are no longer the Imperial Sovereign, but the Commonality Crown. My title, Empress, is a gracious reminder from the People of my traditional role, but in truth, I am little but the 'speaking leader' - a kind of ceremonial role above and beyond normal duties - of the Commonality Executive Council. It is our job to decide foreign and defensive policies, inside the acceptance of the legislative and constitutional branches of government where needed."

She shrugs slightly. "I did not wish for the title to continue, but tradition is a powerful force in our society. It was irresistable for the voting Public, unfortunately. Perhaps an amendment to the Constitution in the future... but I digress. - I say this, friends: please, call me Rialla, at least at this rather informal stage of proceedings."

She leans forwards a little, grinning as the last words to follow fled her throat; the change in expression softens the sentence considerably at the last. "Or I shall be forced to presume that you merely seek to flatter me."

* * *


Sir Alec nods after the Empress speaks "Thank you, your hospitality is most gracious."

He and Ambassador Ilek move to the table and seem most pleased to be served food and drink, Sir Alec inquiring hopefully about what brands of scotch are readily available. They both occupy themselves with watching and listening, preferring to see what's up with whom before getting terribly involved.

Sir Alec seems quite interested in the discussion between the Dark Lord and Semir-randil , he smiles and speaks up as Semir-randil makes his comment on politeness.

"You know, in the Free Republic we have a saying 'Good manners cost nothing, but poor manners always have a price.' ." He pauses and smiles "I remember when I was a lad, the price of poor manners was a box on the ear."

He chuckles jovially.

The devil's gaze wandered over the both of the men, and without showing an inch emotion, he commented in his rumbling voice. "Wise words, both of you." A small snort of amusement seemed to escape him, and his gaze began to explore the chamber. It'd be practically effortless, he felt, to get what he wanted out of this conference... the ideas ran through his diabolical mind like the rapids before the waterfall.

Semir-randil shrugs slightly. "I had no fear that it were not but a common phrase amongst wise and learned peoples," he replies smoothly, continuing with a gentler tone towards the one who displays so little emotion; he tries valiantly not to be greatly disturbed, for the words of the other feel hollow, meaningless, dead.

Semir-randil, old and ancient beyond Human compare, is rarely prejudiced; but this time, he makes an exception. He does not trust this thing... for it hides all that it does and says and feels behind a cloak of deceit; the lack of expressed emotion cannot be taken any way but as an affront.

No empath could take it any other way, he was sure, but he strived still the more against his own feelings.

With a gentle undercurrent and a flitter of a finger towards the table, "It is an honour, Lords. - Shall we to the table, then?"

[OOC: Ilek-Vaad, as you're already at the table, then, um you're already at the table and Semir-randil knows that. Instead, just presume that Semir and the old devil wandered over towards the table more slowly, and are near but not yet seated until this next post coming (at least in Semir's case).]

IC:

Rialla, unwilling to be impolite to those she is already speaking to but not wishing to be impolite to anyone besides, simply nods in the direction of the men from Ilek-Vaad in reply to Sir Alec's words.

Eluvial comes so close to saying Miranda IS just trying to flatter her, so close. But she bites her tongue. However she feels about the other sidhe, she is here to establish relations with Rialla and being catty in front of her would not do. She considers her words. "As you wish, Rialla. I assure you, I did not mean to flatter you. Blood and station merely occuppies a place of great importance in my culture. I was sent to offer friendship and good will, serious and simple, not insincere flattery."

Miranda grins. "Of course, Rialla. You can call me Miranda, of course, or Miri. If I am to call you by your given name, a lowly knight such as myself can scarce insist upon greater formality."

Eluvial settles a little as Miranda speaks. When the Leanhaun is finished, she begins again. "Your Imp...Rialla, might I ask what exactly is planned for this conference? I prepared as best I could yet the invitation left much open."

Miranda's eyes dance as she turns them briefly to Eluvial with a charming, almost flirtatious grin before she looks back to Rialla, wondering at the answer.

Your majesty,
The High Court of Aelisy agrees to come to this meeting, and wishes you well.
Queen Minta of Aelisy

With a gentle undercurrent and a flitter of a finger towards the table, "It is an honour, Lords. - Shall we to the table, then?"

"Yes, it's time to commence business," Hephistamus replied in his usual thundering, hollow tone.

"Why don't you pick us out a good spot?" Liz suggested to her daughter, and the girl rushed toward the table with a smile.

"Shall we sit, Ambassador Telar?" Liz made a motion for Telar to lead the way. It was perhaps something a man would do in a conservative society, but chivalry and women's strength movements had all but been lost to history in Wazzu.

The walrus waddled over to the table and merely made himself comfortable near the Vaadians, since it was quite doubtful that there was a chair large enough to accomodate his 2 ton bulk. Besides, the walrus-folk usually conducted business reclined on large, flat rocks while seated around a table.

The two King's Own merely stood behind their boss, scrutinizing the room and the various delegates.

((OOC:
If you do not mind, consider a Knootian diplomat to be there but not saying anything special. In fact, she would not have said much of anything at all. (She is there just cuz it would be rude to decline an invitation by someone giving us that much military aid, not because the Knootians are such big fans of talk conferences.

Also, this Knootian is prolly hiding her wild annoyance with the entire proceedings. Knootians tend to shy away from ceremony and ostentatiousness. regarding fuss of any kind is regarded as undignified.))

Josephina Dwarsstraat let a small sigh escape as she sat down at the table. The invitation to come to the table had come as a relief. Now at least the useless part of this whole meeting was over. She had accepted all the greetings with a formalistic smile. "Now there probably will be some longwinded speech before they will come to business", she told herself.

"At least ICEL protocol had been observed without indulging in all of the usual mutual flattery and self aggrandising," she thought as she spread out a small pile of random paperwork in front of her.

The walrus, after waiting for an extended period of time, was slowly becoming drowsy and accidentally bumped his head on the table - causing it to shake.

[OOC: Apologies for slowness, but, you know, real life is more important, and all. :p]

Eluvial comes so close to saying Miranda IS just trying to flatter her, so close. But she bites her tongue. However she feels about the other sidhe, she is here to establish relations with Rialla and being catty in front of her would not do. She considers her words. "As you wish, Rialla. I assure you, I did not mean to flatter you. Blood and station merely occuppies a place of great importance in my culture. I was sent to offer friendship and good will, serious and simple, not insincere flattery."

Miranda grins. "Of course, Rialla. You can call me Miranda, of course, or Miri. If I am to call you by your given name, a lowly knight such as myself can scarce insist upon greater formality."

Eluvial settles a little as Miranda speaks. When the Leanhaun is finished, she begins again. "Your Imp...Rialla, might I ask what exactly is planned for this conference? I prepared as best I could yet the invitation left much open."

Miranda's eyes dance as she turns them briefly to Eluvial with a charming, almost flirtatious grin before she looks back to Rialla, wondering at the answer.

[fast forward here somewhat; assuming everyone is sat down and ready etc]

Rialla smiles gently. "In my society, too, as well as at the very least in the homeland of the Sidhe, much is placed on Bloodlines and rank and the social hierarchy. But all such formalities can and frequently are put aside at the whimsy of the one of highest rank present - it rapidly becomes a matter of honour to do so, in fact; and there are none of greater rank present here in this nation today than I. It is a topic on which I could speak for many hours (and I am sure you have heard I am something of a windbag), but I will temper my own urges in favour of the requirements of the day. Thus it is that we leave our circlets at the door; we do not wish to stand on formality here, as we are aware that many nations find such 'pomp' to be tiresome and annoying at best. So, onwards! - We are gathered here to discuss several important matters; firstly, and from our perspective foremost, the cessation of efforts by the Commonality to spread its own influence amongst foreign powers."

She pauses a moment. "That is not to say that we no longer have any interest in improving and building relations with our neighbours; but we are taking a new policy step: non-interference. Our military will no longer deploy outside our borders (except in stellar space) where not requested, and all naval taskforces excepting the Turath Battlegroup are being recalled to our waters. Nor will we make requests upon foreign governments, or strive to bring stability to the globe.

"In short, friends, and those who I do not know well enough to call friends yet, we are tired and weary and see little point in striving for that wish none others care to build. We will make strong our land, and fortify it against invaders - but we care not for the outsiders, which care not for themselves, any longer."

Semir-randil nods slowly. "'Tis indeed at the decision of the People of the Commonality that we take this step. No longer will we work to prevent nuclear proliferation or the sale of dangerous arms; no longer will we make efforts to prevent warfare where we can; no longer will we intervene in foreign wars and send our people to die for a cause that too few Outsiders believe in; no longer will we offer our funds to those who do not have the humility to ask. Where we were automatically caring, we will be hard. Where we were hard, we will now grow silent. The world wants not our aid - and our aid will no longer be given freely unless asked for. In short: we have lost patience already, and cease caring. You may all kill each other, for all we care: just leave our lands alone, and we will not touch a hair on the head of any. But with that in mind, we will need strong allies. We will need friends to stand besides us; for as we isolate ourselves, our need for strength of fellows will increase, not decrease. And so we look for likeminded individuals whom will stand with us as what we perceive as twilight falls upon the world surround. You are the first to hear of this shift in policy outside our borders; soon we will send the word far and wide... but not today. What say you? We bring you here partly to test the reaction, to dip the toe unto the water, I believe the expression is."

Sir Alec smiled at the words spoken by Rialla and Semir-randil.

"This sounds exactly like the foreign policy of the Free Republic. We have always tried to stay out of the affairs of foreigners, often they are too quick to fight for no reason. We have never supported wrong actions and we have never interfered where our interests or our friends interests have not been put into jeopardy.

The Honoured Statesman called it 'Non-engagement, engagement' that is, the door is always open to our friends but we do not meddle in affairs that are not ours."

Sir Alec pauses and bows his head to the monarchs

"A most wise policy indeed, it has benefitted the Free Republic immensley and I think you will find it's benefits as well."

He pauses again and looks thoughtful

"As for giving you our support, I'm afraid it would be only support we could render without treaties or alliances, our constitution strictly forbids the Republican Council from making alliances with Monarchies, Dictatorships or Imperialist nations. No disrespect intended, and it's not meant to be unfriendly, but such allainces would put us in an awkward position of possibly being called upon to fight to expand empires or against democracy. That would be the antithesis of the Free Republic.

But good luck anyhow."

"This is not quite what I expected," Liz Wang admitted, "but it is closer to what I came to propose. I had thought I would have to do so privately, but now I think not.

"Please don't take offense, but I wonder, how many alliances has your nation proposed? And how many have failed outright? It seems to me that your nation is both too strong willed to follow in an alliance, and to little to lead.

"I view my own nation in much the same way. Though our attempts to start alliances are limited and in the distant past, they too failed. In only the past few centuries have we tried to engage the international community actively. But back home, we find ourselves feeling betrayed.

"Our allies have been generous enough with technical help, and certainly kind enough, but they remain more comitted to relations with other nations then my own. It has been decided to pursue interests with other strong willed nations that feel outcast, set aside, weary of playing second or none.

"The Commonality was the first to come to mind."

Ambassador Wang paused for a moment to collect her thoughts.

"Our two nations have often been at odds. I think that is due as much to our similarities as to our differences, and to our stubbornness." She smiled a moment, then her face turned more serious.

"We've given up on the good old boy pyramid scheme, we'd like an equal to call friend. Can you see yourself as such?"

The Vrakian was taken aback. He did not see this coming since he was basing his predictions on the past history of the EOTED and now ICEL. That is, they often struck them as establishing themselves as the world’s policeman and unfortunately, managed to come out tarred and feathered as far as world opinion was concerned.

Hrang-il Jual mused to himself. If the ICEL was indeed serious about this policy change and if it were for a long term, it would certainly make Vrak much more inclined to establish deeper relations with the ICEL. After all, it seems that the FKC was always on the receiving end of do-gooders trying to interfere in their internal affairs.

A quick side glance at the representative from Arda. I wonder exactly how he’ll take this? We've never bothered them, but certainly the history between that region and the various incarnations of the ICEL are known to Dhurthrak.

The walrus spoke, in a measured tone and carefully chosen words.

“What you propose is, shall we say and from what we know of you, unlike you. But, it certainly is more aligned to how we view the world. Speaking as one who dwells in a region that seems to attract the attention of people wishing to force change and often without conducting diplomatic negotiations first, we can only welcome this new policy direction.”

A pause.

“I cannot, at this time, commit to anything since I am not authorized to sign any type of treaty. What I can promise you is that I shall bring this information back to our own government and that of the FKC parliament in general, since our constitution stipulates that it must be informed if any state signs an outside treaty. Finally, with your leave, I would like to bring this to one more organization whose general policies are quite similar to the ones you outlined and to consider their views. I want to say this, however, that we ourselves pick our friends very carefully and those that show a real commitment to their overall goals. In other words, and I mean no disrespect, we want to see more long term evidence that your government is fully committed to this new change. If it is, I’m quite sure that Vrak will be much more favorable in establishing closer ties with your land – and I daresay any other nation present today that pursues this type of policy.”

OOC: is it too late for a nation to join this summit? if not here goes, if so ignore this post

IC:
*a cloaked figure steps in followed by a cougar as loyal to him as many dogs to their owners.*
He introduces himself as Cyrus Lanier a Representitive of the Mercenary army of the Nation of Fortune. He looks at Trilly, his cougar, and says "Don't worry about her, she won't attack anybody unless she feels either of us are threatened, and with the harness and leash i have her on she knows she musn't do anything rash"

The Knootian diplomat paled a little, her jawbone stiffening as the area above it became a little whiter. As the other parties praised isolationalism she said nothing, her stale-grey eyes staring at Rialla in wonder.

Why the heck announce this to us in a public conference, if this is to change our bilateral relations. Has Rialla lost her mind?

As much as she tried to hide her feelings, she was obviously not pleased with the whole affair. Still, she would be damned to share that sentiment with strangers or with uppity Vaadians.

Sir Alec smiled broadly again and nodded to the Walrus.

"Well said, I think I agree completely with the esteemed representative of Vrak. This is indeed a positive step."

Sir Alec then winked suggestively at the oddly pale Knootian delegate as Ambassador Ilek sat there with a spare 'This is it?' look on his face.

Sir Alec then looks as though he may be about to shout 'Eureka', he smiles broadly and further offers

"While a pact of alliance would probably be out of the question, there is a program recently instituted by the Republican Council. I'm willing to bet that I could guarantee good relations and mutual cooperation between our great nations if the Commonality were to host a Foreign Guard Army.

This is a new organization founded by the Republican Council to establish five armies of Foreign Nationals in friendly nations to help protect the interests of the Free Republic and friends of the Republic.

There is no requirement as far as alliances go, I mean we don't have any official allies and it would accomplish exactly what you've hinted at, strong, dependable mutual friendship and cooperation!"

Eluvial nods a little. "This is certainly in keeping with our own views on foreign policy. While we could certainly sign a mutually beneficial formal arrangement, treaties are not our preferred means of establishing alliances. More in accordance with our custom, I would point out that Her Imperial Majesty has two unmarried daughters, two unwed sisters, and one unmarried brother."

Miranda smiles ever so faintly, studying Rialla. "The Kingdom of Wintermore would be happy to come to an arrangement. We would be happy to deal with you in accordance with normal, modern diplomatic practice. We would gladly exchange embassies and establish a bilateral trade relationship." Miranda pauses, looking off a moment as she thinks. "Subject to a certain measure of restriction from the Imperial Court, of course." She gives a sidelong glance to Eluvial, her radiant face giving a self-satisfied smirk. "In any event, this new policy is wholly in line with the general lines of Her Majesty's policy towards the world at large. Wintermore is also working to establish an independent presence in world affairs."

The Dark Lord found this kind of announcement slightly unusual for conference that invited everyone. Nevertheless, he could still work his plots into the web.

"Seeing as Ma-Tek is taking a stance of isolationism," the baatezu rumbled, "Dhurthrak offers its military ...aid in this treaty to help patrol the borders of the nations currently gathered. Isolationism isn't always secure when in a world of expansionist empires, and thus it's always good to have a helping hand in the case of invasion...."

His red eyes glowed brightly for the longest moment. "So I propose that the Dark Domion of Dhurthrak is allowed to watch over its neighbors in the case that such an aforementioned rogue nation should perform such an incursion."

At last, the thundering fell silent and his dark gaze watched for the reactions of those gathered here today. There still didn't seem to be a show of any emotion from the devil, but for the most astute, it was obvious to what he might be up to. For those who weren't, they might actually think he may be giving a selfless offer.

Ambassador Elizabeth Wang shook her head silently. Maybe it was just her own nation's history, what of it remained recorded, but to her Semir-randil's speech was clear; ICEL was not taking a stance of isolationism at all.

She waited for one of the commonality citizens to clear that up, meanwhile wondering why anyone believed ICEL might need military aid.

Sir Alec raised an eyebrow at the Dark Lord's magnanimous offer and smiled.

"That IS very generous Lord Hephistamus, but the Free Republic currently has no border issues or really any other issues of security. I would be very interested to see what your armed forces are comprised of, out of professional curiosity of course."

Ambassador Ilek simply watched Sir Alec as he poked the rottweiler..............


OOC: just a side note, mentally I'm imagianing that anytime someone says 'Lord Hephistamus' that there are peals of lightning and thunder. I don't know why.

Semir-randil laughs softly, the sound rich and vibrant, bubbling and mirthful; but his eyes are sad, the large, delicate amber irises unusually constricted and small. "My dear guests, I find it unbelievable that some of you appear to believe that we require military support. Why, did not Arda strive to bring its forces against us, only to be defeated and routed by the Allied Forces? History teaches that the Commonality has support and friends where and when it may need them; we seek not new defensive allies - unless you wish our forces stationed inside your borders, for your defence. And I see that our Knootian friend is looking rather pale; my friend, our base inside Knootian territory will remain, for it is ICEL soil - and we shall protect our allies in Knootoss as we have in the past, with no thought for our own safety or the danger to our own soldiers whom so bravely act as guards to our allies."

He pauses, taking a small, nonchalant sip from a glass of water a server lays at his hand almost the same instant his hand grasps for it.

"This may indeed seem as a policy of isolationism, but I fear some of you misunderstand. We do not seek to isolate ourselves. We will merely no longer waste our efforts on those who do not heed our words; let the world police itself, for we are weary, and our tireless efforts of the last two years have been all but hated and cast down as selfish and self-serving. For although the world has at times sat up, and noticed that we seek only to serve our fellow Sentients, at all other times have we been seen as nought but conquerers speaking sweetened words to put our enemies ill at ease.

"Were I a younger man, sorely tempted would I be to push for our forces to invade and conquer as the others have claimed we wish to do; for were we desiring to do so, the whole world would surely know it for certain: we do not seek conquest, however, and I indeed less than any other.

"This policy shift does not represent a move away from our efforts at gaining further signatures for the Treaty of the Alliance of Stability and Harmony; indeed, now we strongly see that the Alliance will likely be an insular and contained unit, when and if we succeed in our efforts. But we are patient, and I myself have seen longer days and seasons than that which is upon us now; and I am prepared to wait... and so are our People.

"And indeed we have been called longwinded, and blowhards, and many other names relating to our yen for long speeches; yet our long speeches spill the truth of our hearts, whereas the short speeches of others oft speak of nothing but desire and yearning and dark and troublesome thoughts.

"I put it to you all: do not seek to gain advantage of our good nature, for although we are a kind and good people in our hearts, we have a dark and troubling ability to put that good nature to one side - and woe betide he who stands in our way when our hearts drive us to defend ourselves. The 'Dark Lord' there has surely heard tales of the War of Survival, whenst did Lord Morgoth strive against us, only to find that our friends numbered greater than he had bargained against - and our own forces were needed not, beyond small defensive measures here or there.

"I speak of war, and the purposes of war, and we the Commonality are often speaking of war; yet we do not often wage war, nor do we often find ourselves defending ourselves against those who would war against us. Why this should be I do not entirely claim to know - yet it is so. Perhaps it is the Noldor heritage of this land; perhaps it is the sight of Lord Morgoth waging himself against all and sundry who would oppose him that stirs our blood and turns our thoughts ever to ways to oppose and defeat his purposes in the world - for all that is evil and dark is descended from his words of old.

"Yet I drift to the side, again, for 'tis a topic of great and widening proportions: but know this, gathered ones; the Crown is not with the People on this issue. We yield for we are but Servants to their desires; but the Crown desires greatly to continue to tread the path we have found in the short time of our current rule - we yearn to make our mark upon the world, it is true, but our mark would be soft and careful, as the gardener shapes the tree to a thing of great beauty from a wild and tormented past. We would that there were many other gardeners, but alas, it is not so. Thus it is that our People have decided on this path; and we the Commonality Government, as a democratically apppointed unit, shall not stand against the People.

"Our hand will not vanish from the world; but it will not reach where it is not asked to reach. Our eyes will not be removed from that we do not wish to see, but will watch all the more vigilantly for words against us. Our military will not become slovenly or slow to respond; indeed, the Watchers on the Wall will keep their swords ever at the ready.

"You speak of isolationism; we do not. We speak of moderation."

Rialla, for her part, seems quite willing to let Semir speak for the Commonality; indeed, she smiles faintly her or there during the speech, and her own lips move ever so slightly occasionally, mirroring his words. This somehow gives the speech an air of predetermination - as if the speech were known to her before the words were spoken; yet surely they could not have known the response of those who were to gather?

Rialla does, however, say something rather brief: "Were this all we had to bring to the table, then we would not be here."

[OOC: If you're wondering at the length of the speech, then take this into account, as I may not have actually 'weaved' it quite right: the speech reveals a great many things, but those very things are meant to be obscured and difficult to see amongst the whole; as such, there are what appear to be contradictions - but they are not contradictions if you understand the whole, and from where Semir is speaking. ;)]

The Knootian woman nods in acknowledgement. In typically direct fashion, she asks:

"I am very glad to hear that you still appreciate our friendship and I can assure you that the feelings of brotherhood between our nations are shared by all in the Dutch Democratic Republic.

However, if I may be so bold to ask, are the military aid grants we have always recieved as part of the military base deal in any way being reconsidered as a result of this policy shift?"

Eluvial leans back a little, studying them. She searches the speech for a direct answer to her proposals.

Ambassador Ilek leaned over to Sir Alec and whispered

"We are setting an isolationist policy, we are not setting an isolationist policy, that's our last word on the matter."

They had a good chuckle at the Ambassador Ilek's impromptu impersonation of Geoffrey Norman, MP, from The Fast Show.

Sir Alec then cleared his throat

"If you will pardon me then, why have you invited everyone here then? Obviously not to announce what sounds like a fundamental change in policy, and then clarify that it isn't a fundamental chage in policy, honestly I...."

he pauses and looks at the other delegates

"and it seems a few others here are a bit confused as to the purpose of this whole gathering?"

Yes i agree with Ilek-Vaad, some of us are still confused as to why we were summoned.
*after he says this he rubs Trilly, his cougar's, head provoking a sustained meow*

The Knootian glances annoyed at the representatives from Nation of Fortune

"Really, do they have any clue?", she thinks.

The Knootian glances annoyed at the representatives from Nation of Fortune

"Really, do they have any clue?", she thinks.
OOC your right i don't have a clue

Interm Ambassador Liz Wang listened to Semir-randil's speach with active attention and slid back into her chair afterwards to consider its meaning.

The leader had not directly answered her, seaming instead to 'limit' his speach to flurry of comments that followed Liz's own. But he did, somehow, seem to touch her inquiry gently.

While elves and their kin seemed to show it in greater amounts, it was a common misconception to think of them as arrogant...as if others were not. Certainly, everyone believed they were right, and somehow special or even best...or they would change their beliefs. But that did not answer the question.

Did Semir-randil see Wazzu as another potential gardener? Or as just a groundskeeper kept to help in the belief that he himself was an equal?

It was at times like these that Liz Wang wished she were a telepath.

"I am indeed quite familiar with the wars that Lord Morgoth lost against Ma-Tek and do not doubt their military might," Lord Hephistamus rebutted. "However, there is always someone far more powerful, and not to mention greedy. My proposal is to make sure that there will be aid where it will be most needed. I urge each of you to consider my... generous offer."

"I am indeed quite familiar with the wars that Lord Morgoth lost against Ma-Tek and do not doubt their military might," Lord Hephistamus rebutted. "However, there is always someone far more powerful, and not to mention greedy. My proposal is to make sure that there will be aid where it will be most needed. I urge each of you to consider my... generous offer."

Liz Wang chuckled softly and spoke up. "Lord Hephistamus, Wazzu would certainly be interested in an exchange of military bases...had we not already territory on the Ardan contenent. As it is, perhaps there is some other alternative we could work out.

"Later.

"As it is, this is the Commonality's summit, and I believe we should be listening to what our honorable hosts have to say." As she said this, Interm. Ambassador Wang's face turned to look at Semir-randil and Rialla, her eyes betraying mild amusement.

Semir-randil resisted the urge to put his head in his hands and groan aloud. Was it something that came from being so short-lived, he wondered, or were some of the longer-lived species as blind and deaf as some Humans seemed to be?

He glanced to his wife, not trusting himself (for this moment) not to make a thinly-veiled sarcastic remark to someone. Anyone.

Rialla smiles gently, and tries to make it seem as if it's not patronizing. Of course, it is. It's very patronizing. She's smiling as if at children; but, all fair and said, it is how she always smiles.

"If all were to listen as astutely as others, then we would not need to repeat ourselves. - No, my esteemed friend from Knootoss, the Commonality has no intention of revising the annual aid supplied to Knootoss at this time. We are committed to protecting Knootoss, our ally, and will continue to be committed until such time as Knootoss requests otherwise - should that ever come to pass.

"We have called you here for several reasons; to announce our new position, so that you might bring your grievances with it and us to the table. What bothers you that we do? What can we do to improve our relations with you all? What can we do to convince you, or to make it easier, for you to join ASH? And so on. There are many reasons; it is open-ended."

Eluvial sits and listens for a long moment. "If those are the questions..." she considers her answer a moment. "We have no grievances against the Commonality at this time. As for better relations, well, we have always believed that the strongest ties are those of the blood. While we no longer practice arranged marriages in the strict sense, the noblemen of the Commonality may from henceforth consider themselves to have a standing invitation to the courtship balls and cotillions of our higher nobility. If you would have our noblemen at yours, I'm sure you'd find many glad to attend. Short of that, nothing brings about friendship like contact and familiarity. If our people were to become more familiar with yours and vice versa...that would go a long way. As for ASH, well, we will certainly consider it, if you ask us. However, our normal policy is one that gives preference bilateral relationships with other individual nations over international organizations."

Miranda sighs a little. "Most of that goes for the Royal Court of Wintermore, as well. However, our legal status in the Empire forbids us joining ASH unless the imperial court does."

Josephina Dwarsstraat nodded to Rialla in acknowledgement that the aid was not threatened.

"The Dutch Democratic Republic has no grievances with ICEL, and our relationship have always been positive. I believe our governments position on the ASH has always been clear, too. We have expressed a desire to join when it has become the effective multilateral organisation it has been set up to be, rather then cloud bilateral relations with a treaty that has only been signed by ourselves and ICEL as the primary participants."

There was something in Riall's tone of voice...and some look on Semir-randil's face; Liz could place neither, and for the second time wished she were a telepath. Then an unfamiliar term came to her. ASH

Quietly, she accessed a database imbedded underneath her skull...and came up with nothing. A quick link to other databases also came up dry, and she shot the ICEL leaders a questioning look.

Ambassador Ilek looked over at Alec and then finally said something.

"I believe the confusion here is due to a well known gnomeish disorder that cause most of their race to speak at length and with double meaning."

Alec was flabbergasted by Ambassador Ilek's statement and looked ready to stop him, but Ambassador Ilek put his hand on Alec's shoulder and continued.

"Your first statement appeared unambiguous. Phrases such as 'cessation to spread influence among foreign powers' and 'we care not for outsiders' would seem to be certain to refer to an isolationist policy. Statements such as 'for as we isolate ourselves' would certainly lead anyone with reason to believe that isolating yourselves would lead to isolationism.

We then heard you say 'And so we look for likeminded individuals whom will stand with us' which seemed to imply that you were looking for like minded allies, which lead my Honourable friend to make a suggestion towards that.

Your next statement rounded totally on the connotations of your opening statement, telling us that while 'isolationg yourselves' you would still be active in all of your former international activities, MUCH to the relief of the Honourable Delegate from Knootoss, and stated that in spite of stating that you are seeking 'likeminded individuals' that you do not need nor are you looking for allies.

Why don't we call this what this is? A fishing expedition. You are probing the nations here that were gracious enough to come here at your invitation to see what you can gain from them. I have dealt with many gnomes in the past and have always seen this tactic of ambigous probing to see who you can get on your side without actually asking for it.

Quite honestly we in the Free Republic are very direct, we do not appreciate or trust doublespeak, or ambigous unsolicited 'announcements of intentions.' I do not trust your motives or your statements at this point and I think you should plainly state exactly what you hope to gain from this conference."

Sir Alec didn't say anything after that but simply nodded to Ambassador Ilek.

Eluvial sits and listens for a long moment. "If those are the questions..." she considers her answer a moment. "We have no grievances against the Commonality at this time. As for better relations, well, we have always believed that the strongest ties are those of the blood. While we no longer practice arranged marriages in the strict sense, the noblemen of the Commonality may from henceforth consider themselves to have a standing invitation to the courtship balls and cotillions of our higher nobility. If you would have our noblemen at yours, I'm sure you'd find many glad to attend. Short of that, nothing brings about friendship like contact and familiarity. If our people were to become more familiar with yours and vice versa...that would go a long way. As for ASH, well, we will certainly consider it, if you ask us. However, our normal policy is one that gives preference bilateral relationships with other individual nations over international organizations."

Miranda sighs a little. "Most of that goes for the Royal Court of Wintermore, as well. However, our legal status in the Empire forbids us joining ASH unless the imperial court does."

Rialla nods to this, but replies softly, "Unfortunately - although it is actually fortunate in the majority, for reasons to lengthy to go into, yet it is unfortunate under these circumstances - Commonality Law prohibits Nenyans from breeding with non-Nenyans under any circumstances. They may cohabitate, but there is no reason to marry without the possibility of breeding; or so our culture has always viewed the matter.

"Yet I am sure the Human and Quendi members of the Nobility would much enjoy such interaction with your Nobility. Once, we engaged in such activities inside the Iluvauromen lands (that which are these lands in our tongue), but Nobility is no longer such a matter of blood as it is of honour."

Josephina Dwarsstraat nodded to Rialla in acknowledgement that the aid was not threatened.

"The Dutch Democratic Republic has no grievances with ICEL, and our relationship have always been positive. I believe our governments position on the ASH has always been clear, too. We have expressed a desire to join when it has become the effective multilateral organisation it has been set up to be, rather then cloud bilateral relations with a treaty that has only been signed by ourselves and ICEL as the primary participants."

Semir smiled at this response, and bowed his head slightly, responding with obvious pleasure in his words: "Indeed, we now have several signatures to the Treaty, friend. Yet the Treaty is not yet active - that is a matter to be decided by the signatories at the appropriate time, of course."

There was something in Riall's tone of voice...and some look on Semir-randil's face; Liz could place neither, and for the second time wished she were a telepath. Then an unfamiliar term came to her. ASH

Quietly, she accessed a database imbedded underneath her skull...and came up with nothing. A quick link to other databases also came up dry, and she shot the ICEL leaders a questioning look.

Rialla leaned over to speak to one of the servers, who nodded slowly and scurried from the room quickly. "ASH is the Alliance of Stability and Harmony, which is essentially born out of the Treaty of the Alliance of Stability and Harmony. The goal of the Alliance is not to wage war or even to form a defensive partnership between states (although, of a need, that is so as well), but to prevent the need for that defensive partnership in the first place. It is partially - but not wholly or even greatly - based upon the ancient League of Nations arrangement, to be brief. I have asked that a copy of the Treaty be brought to the Table for those who wish to view it."

Ambassador Ilek looked over at Alec and then finally said something.

"I believe the confusion here is due to a well known gnomeish disorder that cause most of their race to speak at length and with double meaning."

Alec was flabbergasted by Ambassador Ilek's statement and looked ready to stop him, but Ambassador Ilek put his hand on Alec's shoulder and continued.

"Your first statement appeared unambiguous. Phrases such as 'cessation to spread influence among foreign powers' and 'we care not for outsiders' would seem to be certain to refer to an isolationist policy. Statements such as 'for as we isolate ourselves' would certainly lead anyone with reason to believe that isolating yourselves would lead to isolationism.

We then heard you say 'And so we look for likeminded individuals whom will stand with us' which seemed to imply that you were looking for like minded allies, which lead my Honourable friend to make a suggestion towards that.

Your next statement rounded totally on the connotations of your opening statement, telling us that while 'isolationg yourselves' you would still be active in all of your former international activities, MUCH to the relief of the Honourable Delegate from Knootoss, and stated that in spite of stating that you are seeking 'likeminded individuals' that you do not need nor are you looking for allies.

Why don't we call this what this is? A fishing expedition. You are probing the nations here that were gracious enough to come here at your invitation to see what you can gain from them. I have dealt with many gnomes in the past and have always seen this tactic of ambigous probing to see who you can get on your side without actually asking for it.

Quite honestly we in the Free Republic are very direct, we do not appreciate or trust doublespeak, or ambigous unsolicited 'announcements of intentions.' I do not trust your motives or your statements at this point and I think you should plainly state exactly what you hope to gain from this conference."

Sir Alec didn't say anything after that but simply nodded to Ambassador Ilek.

Nenyan facial expressions are not always the easiest to read, as the species does not rely on body language to convey attitude in the same way that Humans do. Yet at the very first part of this speech, Semir-randil scowls deeply - and looks exceptionally insulted.

"You state it yourself," there is a pause here, and Semir-randil's lips do not frame the silent word that he thinks, "you are here for conference. I cannot be more brief than that, can I?"

There is, of course, more than a little annoyance conveyed in that tone. As he had just spoken at length indeed on the matter regarding the Commonality not being interested in 'personal' gains or imperialism, and indeed had just at length outlined the reason for the conference at least in part, Semir utterly failed to see any reason to repeat himself.

The ICEL Ambassador also seated at the table appears to move his lips for a moment, but no words are audible. Interestingly enough, Rialla's head bobs slightly in a nod directly after his lips stop moving, and the Human Ambassador smilingly launches into, "Yet I feel the urgent need to lay desolate some of the more intriguingly inaccurate statements by our friend from Ilek-Vaad. No, we did not say we do not need allies. We said we do not need military allies. This may be a confusing concept some of the more materialistic individuals in this world, but 'want' and 'need' are different things. We want allies. Yet at this time we do not need allies for military reasons.

"Further, it is perhaps a little offensive to refer to a Nenyan as a 'gnome'. An Elf might perhaps be named thus, but a Nenyan is not an Elf, and is therefore not at all a 'gnome'. Yet that is not an important matter. What is important is the offensive nature of your remark; referring to any Nenyan as 'long-winded' is a misnomer. The Nenyan language is elegant and practices brevity in the extreme, as does Quenya. The Human languages, with the exception of but a few, are at fault in this regard. This makes it exceedingly difficult to be brief when speaking in Human tongues; surely this is apparent.

"Also, I think it is fair to say that the memory of the esteemed Ambassador is surely at fault. Nowhere did Their Majesties suggest that the Commonality is anti-outsider. Indeed, we have sent our people to die for outsiders. Thirty thousand died in Knootoss; several hundred died in All Elves; dozens died fighting against a senseless war in Amerigo. Some died even in Rukemia, when our forces struggled mightily to protect the People of that land from their inevitable oppression at the hands of the Ardans, were their government's course not stayed. No offense intended to the Ardan present, of course. - Thus many families have lost loved ones to the violence of the outside world; yet we cease not our defence of those who ask for or need it. These are not the actions of a people who 'care not for outsiders'. Quite the opposite.

"Nay, the words were, to paraphrase slightly, 'we care not for the outsiders who care not for themselves'. Which, as I'm sure any one can easily see, is different."

The Ambassador falls silent.

Ambassador Ilek smiles

" I am sorry for the offence, I did not realize that Nenyans are offended by 'gnome'. We in the Free Republic do care for ourselves and our friends, and I did not imply that you have not helped to protect your friends. I am also afraid that you misunderstand, Sir Alec's offer to allow your nation to host a Foreign Guard army is as much about trade and diplomatic relations, as Sir Alec said.

It was you that used the terms 'isolate' and that you were looking for 'like minded friends' these were your words not mine. Sir Alec suggested a manner in which our nations may work together and co-operate further and yet you continue to argue the subtleties of language and discussions on language and what you 'meant' as opposed to what you 'said'."

Ambassador Ilek sighs heavily. Sir Alec nods and then adds

"I see the Ambassadors point, you said you wanted to test the waters on how friendly the gathered nations here are inclined to be to you and your policies. I stated that we were inclined to be very friendly and offered a way in which we could press our relations futher, only to be rounded on and told that you required no more friends or allies, that you just wanted to see how the gathered nations here would react.

Well, at first I reacted well. My job is to forge better and new relations, but now I am inclined to react badly, my job ISN'T to be tested as a sounding board for your foreign policy. Really, you wonder why the nations in Arda so easily gather allies, well at least they get right to the point.

I'm afraid that unless there is anything of actual substance to discuss here, then I should be leaving. I have a great many duties. The Free Republic doesen't waste time and money on 'diplomatic corps' like other nations and it's conferences like this that illustrate exactly why we don't.

So, either we chair the semantics debate and move onto to something direct and solid, or I will thank you for your gracious hospitality and me and the Ambassador will go on our way and wish you the best of luck with your foreign policy focus group."

It is fairly obvious that the good natured Sir Alec is getting rather perturbed, he seems especailly incensed at the lip-reading they seem to be doing to each other. In the Free Republic there is nothing more insulting than hosts that seek to hide something from invited guests.

Eluvial nods slightly. "That is an interesting law. Shieldcrest has a number of similar laws, but the other five kingdoms of the Empire recognize marriage regardless of race. Farinor recognizes marriage regardless of sex. Quendi, I believe, fall within the Shieldcrest law and may marry freely there. Quendi and humans are welcome to court traditional partners in Holista, Fireforge, Wintermore, and Bilbtoria. Quendi and humans are welcome to court partners of either sex in Farinor."

Miranda sits up, arching a brow. "I hate to contradict my distinguished colleague from the Imperial Court. However, it is not true that Holista or Fireforge allow free marriage. Both these kingdoms forbid marriage between Thallain and the other races, part of their systematic anti-Thallain policies. Only Wintermore is free of this prejudice, treating our Thallain citizens like any others. Bilbtoria might allow them to intermarry but...well, an ogre is hardly treated the same as a troll in Bilbtoria. Also, though it is less publicized than the Farinoran law, we do allow homosexual marriage. We're the only kingdom with fully free marriage laws, if that's what you would seek, and we would love to have suitors from the Commonality. My own ball will be soon, actually."

Interm. Ambassador Elizabeth Wang looked over the doccument with some bit of sorrow. Semir-randil's words had led her to believe that ICEL was taking on a new direction, but the treaty proved otherwise. At least in the mind of a Wazzuian, ICEL was doing the same exact thing as its projinators had.

"I will take this back to my government," she spoke up, "but I do not expect to see it ratified."

Hrang-il Jual remembered the ASH treaty. It had been scrutinized by the Vrak Diplomatic Corps and rejected. Still though Hrang-il,there might be another way...

He cleared his throat and his deep voice rumbled.

"At the present time, the Kingdom of Vrak is not interested in the ASH treaty. We are interested in trade, and in pursuing trade with those whose policy direction are similar to ours which is this; we do not seek to force our economic nor military agenda or military might upon other nations, provided that they stay out of our affairs. We are loyal to a fault to our friends. We have not once up to the present time invaded any other nation, even though we have had to defend ourselves from invaders. Times are changing though in Vrak on the last point since our King is tired of meddlers and forced to make an example of one nation, and perhaps others that deign to interfer. As well, we limit ourselves on the number of alliances we are involved in so as to minimize any conflicts of interest. We offer a potential market of over 3.6 billion with potentially more in the FKC itself."

A pause.

"Who here is essentially aligned with what I briefly outlined above?"

Eluvial turns to Hrang-il. "We are, essentially."

Sir Alec nods at the Walrus "I think you know that we agree with you on those points."

Rialla shakes her head at the words of the delegates from Ilek-Vaad and offers quietly, "Leave if you wish, but the purpose of any gathering of persons in this manner is but to 'sound out' and test the waters. Especially so early on in a meeting - to expect everything to be given on a plate at whimsy is sheer fantasy. The reason that Arda can be plain and 'forthright' is because they lie easily, and have no true desire to aid any but themselves. It is only with compassion that we find true complexity, after all; not with self-interest.

"However, I will say this for the utmost of certainty. The Commonality will not ever allow foreign forces to be stationed inside our borders, unless it is part of an exchange program. And only the Imperial Defence Force Ground Forces would be interested in such an exchange; the Navy, Air Force, and Space Forces, as well as the other branches of the IDF, have sensitivity and security issues that would not allow such an exchange. - But come, now. We are polite and honest and open. What more can you ask for? We lay out our new policy before you, long before the rest of the world has any idea of that which is to come. The very fact that you are being consulted should be complimentary, as I see it. Why, foreknowledge is forearmed, yes?"

Semir-randil nods slowly. "We are, of course, interested in trade and matters of trade. The ICEL economy continues to be one of the most stabile in the world, but the Economic Court, I am aware, looks now to improving strength rather than stability. In order to do so, we need to eradicate our current trade deficit. Indeed, the very reason for this carefully constructed deficit is to ensure that our trading partners gain the best deal - not ourselves. We would be more than happy to discuss improvement/normalization of trade with any of those present; even with the delegate from Arda. Although it troubles me not to see Lord Alkanphel; I had much desired to speak with him regarding certain matters at hand.

"But on the matter of ASH - there is no need to be an active signatory. One might merely sign the Treaty as an inactive participant, accepting the values and moral standing of the document; or one might become an affiliate of the Alliance, once it is active.

"Indeed, I am certain some of you fear that we seek to impose our will through the treaty; but if one looks especially carefully, one might find that the only concession granted the Commonality is the place of the Seat of the Alliance, at Nenya, and that is only as we do not know whom might sign - and thus we cannot see any place of greater security to house the Seat. Nowhere does the Treaty grant the Commonality a shred of power beyond that of the other signatories, except where certain powers are bestowed upon the founding signatories - and we are not alone in that position, either."

Rialla turned her gaze back to the delegates from the Resurgent Dream, making a mental note to further investigate this apparent division in that society further in later discussions, but merely states, "The reason that Nenyans are not allowed to interbreed with other species (where that is rarely possible) inside the Commonality is to prevent the destruction of our species. Human DNA asserts itself in the progeny of any such union strongly for several generations even if there is no further introduction of Human genetic material; were such interbreeding common, our species would be eradicated within several generations. It is a great shame indeed, for it greatly limits the union of Nenyankind and Humankind - but until a solution is found, so will the Law remain.

"Although I am also bound to note that it would likewise be impossible for any of our Nobility to marry anyone of the same gender. Although we do not discriminate against same-gender relationships, it is our tradition (and fervent belief) that marriage is only for those who can breed with each other. The infertile do not marry, and nor do same-sex couples or quads."

The term 'quads' probably stands out most strongly, there.

It is also perhaps rather noteworthy that none of the ICEL delegates either accept or deny the Vrakian viewpoint as being 'valid' in their eyes; one might well assume (from previous ICEL diplomatic styling), therefore, that both disagreement and agreement is equally or almost equally spread - or that there simply is no official position to state.

Sir Alec smiles and nods

"I thank you for clarifying that. We will take our leave then. If in the future you wish to hold a conference, or even individual talks with the purpose of actually opening and normalizing relations, please let me know I will be happy to return."

Both Sir Alec and Ambassador Ilek stand and turn and bow to Hrang-il Jual of Vrak , Sir Alec smiles to him "Good luck sir, pleased to have met you."

He turns back to the others assembled

"Good luck and good day, I thank the Commonality for the hospitality."

They then leave.

OOC: Vaadians will not take part in any talks either bi-lateral or multi-lateral that are simply to 'feel-out' reactions and relations. Either you want relations with the Free Republic or you don't, that's how they see it anyhow.

Lord Hephistamus snorted softly at the accusation that Ardans were liars that were only interested in themselves. Well, it was true, but he still didn't take quite well to such a bold statement. He ruled over his nation of Dhurthrak harshly, but leniantly so that his power remained undisputed, but where his orcs could do whatever they wished as long as it didn't injure the government.

A long tallon tapped at his chin as he thought over the questions posed by the delegates of Ma-Tek. He too, like the representatives from Ilek Vaad, was getting slightly annoyed by the bush-dancing leaders of Ma-Tek. Nevertheless, he responded to the questions posed by those leaders.

"Well, good fellows," he spoke. "Since I have not been involved in many of the endeavors that several other's from my nation's region has, I have little problems with your foreign policy as it is. You have been most prudent to not involve yourselves in my personal endeavors.

"As it is, trade would be most interesting indeed if it could involve... military equipment. We are a growing nation and we must always be prepared in the case that someone else comes along and makes an attempt to take away what we have. Your own might shows for the fact that you have equipment that can astonish many of the more powerful enemies....."

As he finished, he gently tapped the tips of his talons together.

The walrus turned and bowed towards the departing Vaadians, expressing his pleasure at having met them. In truth, he was a bit surprised that they would be leaving but then again, this conference does tend to reveal the behavior of not only the ICEL people but the other participants.

The representative from Arda proved especially interesting. Vrak has little to no interaction with any Ardan nation, save Kalessin. And that encounter was hardly…favorable. Still, he kept in mind what Lord Hephistamus said. Always good to keep options open he thought.

A nod to the people from The Resurgent Dream.

“Perhaps we can discuss some possible trade interests later, so as not to offend our hosts with our prattle.”

He turned again to face Rialla and Semir-Randil.

“We shall keep in mind the idea of being a possible ‘inactive participant’ to the ASH treaty. We would hope that expanding trade interests with your nation can be realized without signing that treaty.”

Eluvial nods to the walrus. "Of course. We would be glad to discuss such matters."

Miranda nods. "As would we, as well as possible blood alliances."

The three ICEL delegates stand, and offer respectful tilts of their heads to the Ilek-Vaad delegates as they leave.

Once seated again, and following the comments by the other delegates, Semir-randil nods slowly. "We will trade with anyone, (we even trade with Dor Daedoloth) but what we trade with that 'anyone' depends largely on IDFI reports regarding certain key issues. We rarely allow trade of weapons, however, with any but our closest allies, and then we really only sell conventional aircraft - I believe Rivette are still trying to offload several hundred units of their Thunder fighter jets - and m-blasters, also provided by Rivette. However," he glances at Rialla, "my wife is more involved with such matters than I, as she is the CEO of the Imperial Trade Conglomerate."

Rialla arches an eyebrow, but it's part of an amused glance at her husband, almost as if to say, 'The why are you talking?'

She smiles, and states softly, "Of course, we can make offers and suggestions, but any decision by ourselves would need to be ratified by the rest of the Executive Council and then by the Economic Court. And there is no need to sign the Treaty merely to trade with us."

She cannot help but let a half-grin rise to her face as she notes, "However tempting such a requirement may be to us to lay down as an incentive for others to sign the Treaty. - It is indeed a shame that the delegates from Ilek-Vaad left so early, though...but it will be their loss, I suspect, and your mutual gain."

Semir-randil nods again, slowly, thoughtfully. "There are...other matters and ideas that the Commonality Executive Council has been...discussing for some time - largely related to trade and the co-operation of police forces across international borders. However, we are not yet sure whether those present would indeed be interested in the proposal that the Commonality is preparing..."

He lets his voice trail off, tapping a finger on the desk once, in an odd mimicry of the Dark Lord. Semir-randil considered that title for a moment; he was surprised that Morgoth had suffered any to take such a title...but perhaps Arda was changing subtly. He doubted that, however. Morgoth was surely merely allowing things to appear to change; Semir did not doubt for one moment that Kalessin and Dor Daedoloth still ruled that region in the most sturdy of fashions. His mind drifted to the negotiations with Dor Daedoloth - and decided it was indeed well that the matter was a secret one. Some of those present would not receive the news well, he suspected.

Rialla added softly, almost regretfully, "We do not wish to appear to be attempting to enlarge our sphere of influence, and, as it has already proven difficult to explain our new policy direction to," she pauses, searching for the right word, "yourselves," she decides on after a moment, "we do not wish there to be any misunderstanding."

She did not say it aloud, but internally she wondered if these foreign cultures were simply too alien, too incompatible; had that been the trouble all along?

Yet again the bane of all - the Ego Effect - tugs at the universe, making it sluggish, perchance even greatly slowed...

((My people really said everything they have to contributem barring something new to react to.))

The Vrakian directed his comments to the ICEL.

"Well, we believe our position is clear. As well, we would like to hear more of what you propose. More trade is fine, and cooperation with other police may be acceptable. We don't have a high rate of crime in Vrak though, and we doubt that international criminals use Vrak as a home base."

He leaned back, waiting for some kind of response.

The Knootian nodded, leaning back a bit.

((yup, that covers our position as well))

Rialla nods slowly. "When we say we are interested in further trade, what we mean is that we have been informed by the Imperial House, Citizens House, and by the Economic Court that those parties have agreed to a package to relax trade tariffs to make it far easier for some items to be exported to the Commonality.

"The list mostly relates to certain key materials. Particuarly refined materials - yttrium, magnetite, and lead. Especially yttrium and lead, as I understand it.

"However, the tariffs related to the import of electronics equipment - especially handheld comms devices and personal computer hardware - is also set to be lowered. The result is likely to be a distinct improvement towards equilibrium with our oldest trading partners, and a slightly smaller improvement towards the same with newer partners. Entirely new partners are likely to begin trading with the Commonality in a far better position than, say, Knootoss did, back at the agreement of mutual Most Favoured Nation trading status on both sides."

Hrang-il Jual listened patiently to while musing to himself. Yttrium, magnetite, and lead. Hmmmm. They sound rather rare. Certainly yttrium. Have to contact our geologists about our stockpiles before thinking about trading those.

“Hrrmph. Well, I don’t think we can offer the ICEL much in the way of electronic goods. You are far more advanced then us. We had the same problem with the nation of Scolopendra. How does a primitive nation such as ours hope to gain with trade with one like yourselves without our natural resources being dangerously depleted?”

Rialla and Semir-randil exchanged brief glances - they did not speak with words, but their minds nontheless engaged in a rapid discussion, the sort of which is impossible for a non-psionic to achieve; for each did not need to know the entirety of the sent thought to understand the meaning, for emotional content adds colour and texture to all words for a Nenyan; thus, if their thoughts had been spoken aloud, this alone would be heard:

Perhaps we should-
-not a chance-
-yet if we-
-could happen, couldn't it?
-then again-
-I see your point.

The exchange lasts less than a second; then Semir-randil speaks up, softly. "We would not go so far as to call ourselves advanced, or yourselves primitive. In some areas we are indeed advanced beyond your capabilities - yet in others the same can be said for you, I am quite certain." It's intriguing the way his pattern of speech has altered as the summit goes on. "Yet in several areas we remain utterly compatible, I'm sure. Radios, for example, are in demand again - yet there are few in the Commonality willing to restart the industry required to build them; for the machines required for those specific parts have been converted to other uses. Also the same can be said for televisions; some people do not like their children using trimensional 'visors, as they are more difficult to enact censorship upon.

"We also lag behind some of the world in the field of computers; we have much of and use what we have well, perhaps, but we lag behind nonetheless in key areas - mostly relating to the rapid production of silicon chips, for many reasons, most of which are quite dull.

"And beyond electronics, there is the ever-present Iluvauromeni thirst for literature, art, music, sculptures; luxury clothing, unusual foodstuffs, and knick-knacks," this word is clearly actually said in English, "of a generally luxury nature. We trade the like with Scolopendra, indeed, as you mentioned that state just now."

Rialla nods slowly. "The thirst for the unusual is one of the defining qualities of our culture - or so the philosophers would have us believe," she notes, resisting the subtle but unusually deep urge to empathically 'taste' the delegates present in the room - especially those who have fallen silent. But that would be rude.

"Well, if you would like to change anything in our current arrangements we are, of course, willing to discuss any reasonable proposals"; the Knootian confirms redundantly.

Miranda smiles brightly at the mention of art and literature. "The Kingdom of Wintermore would be very interested in trading objects of creative and artistic interests. We would need to come to an arrangement on intellectual property rights, of course, but that should hardly be a problem."

A servant rushes into the room and whispers something into Rialla's ear. She frowns, then stands. "There have been threats against the Commonality and it looks very much like there will be war. If any wish to leave, it would be wise to do so now, although you are, of course, safe here."

Semir-randil gives his apologies and leaves the room, his lips moving silently as he does.

[OOC: Everybody feel free to leave. Just giving you the excuse to do so.]

Ambassador Hrang-il Jual nodded to Rialla’s words and Semir-randil’s departure. He merely takes down notes regarding what products the ICEL would be interested in, but decided not to answer. After all, he wasn’t an economic specialist and could only speak in general terms as to what exactly Vrak could offer. However, he carried a list of major Vrakian companies, as all the diplomats did, and waited for an opportunity to present them to one of Rialla’s aides. His deep voice rumbled,

“Ah, ermmm…unfortunate to hear that someone is threatening your nation. As well, we had hoped that these talks would have been more…fruitful. Still, we are open for trade. Perhaps, in the near future you could do us the courtesy of visiting our lands. After all, I have visited here twice.”

A deep bow and after exchanging information, Hrang-il also gave a package containing contact numbers and a brief, tourist-like brochure and business card to the Resurgent Dream and Dhurthrak representatives. With that, a deep bow again to Rialla and he left.

Eluvial takes the contact information with a polite smile. "Thank you, my good man. I do not have a telmerone myself or I would offer you my own number. However, here's my address." She hands him a small envelope. "We would be most interested in establishing normal diplomatic relations."

Miranda frowns as Eluvial receives a package she does not. She manages to hold her tongue, however.

The Knootian woman gives a small bow, and pronounces some traditional farewell greetings in Neynan with some difficulty, expressing her hope again to continue positive relations.

Rialla smiles pleasantly as she bids farewell to each delegate, save the one from Arda. He receives nothing but a hollow farewell, although the Nenyan woman does not allow eye contact with the...thing.

The other delegates all receive some form of informal brush of a hand or perhaps a handshake; the Knootian woman in particular receives a fullsome shake of the hand, as if to symbolize the fact that Knootoss is closest to ICEL of those present. The Knootian feels cool metal against her skin, and a faint whisper only she can hear seems to request she keep her hand closed until she can be sure none of the other delegates have seen the transfer.

The delegates from the Resurgent Dream appear to find some more public favour; indeed, Rialla smiles widely at them, and quite openly passes them six circular smooth objects - three each. She presses each in an odd manner with her thumb before giving them to Miranda and Eluvial; she is observant enough to ensure that the six are given in an order of one to the first and two to the second, then two to the first and one to the second.

To Hrang-Il she gives a spoken message, "I would dearly love to see your lands, but I fear that will not be possible just yet. Perhaps my Consort would enjoy such a visit, at the invitation of your government, Ambassador. - Yet I doubt the matter which causes this annoying end to the Summit will be of too much import, but safety (even though the risk is eminently low) must come first."

* * *

The disc given to the Knootian delegate contains a small communication:

"It is becoming eminently clear that Knootoss has been neglected greatly in diplomatic matters of late. We wish to make it clear that we remain committed to our long-standing friendship with Knootoss, and with that in mind, will be taking steps in the near future to ensure that that committment is utterly clear."

* * *

The Resurgent Dream delegates circular objects are small devices, each of which, when pressed with the thumb, speaks in soft tones explaining their use as a communication device with a direct line to the Iluvauromeni Diplomatic Corps. They call themselves 'embassies'.

OOC:
The Resurgent Dream telegramed me to tell you that they are having technical difficulties with the forums. They will be back as soon as possible.